Cardiff Life – Issue 236 by MediaClash

CHRONOMAT

EDITOR’S LETTER

On page 10 you’ll find some of the city’s best indie collectives

ou aren’t mistaken, we have three of the world’s most distinguished actors – Brad Pitt, Charlize Theron and Adam Driver – on the front cover this issue. Thank you to luxury watch retailer Breitling for sponsoring it, and for showcasing this talented, timepiece-clad trio – aka the ‘Breitling Cinema Squad’ – on our most star-studded cover of all time (see more on page 58). Now, on to what you’ll find inside this issue… On page 10 we showcase some of the city’s best indie collectives, which are all crammed with small businesses, so you can shop all-local without having to search high and low. There are markets, indoor shopping hubs, parades, online nerve centres, and even a whole shopping village dedicated to small businesses in Cardiff, how lucky are we? The sheer hustle and commitment of local independents blows our minds; they all offer something original and special, and while alone they may be small, together they are giants, and are taking over Cardiff, making the city a much more creative, colourful, characterful place to live. We also have interviews with incredibly interesting local folks in this issue. There’s actor Rakie Ayola who tells us about her newest role in BBC’s crime thriller The Pact (page 24); there’s Lavinia Neda, a Big Issue vendor whose hard work has transformed her life (page 66), and we’ve spoken to a whole load of family-run business owners about the ups and downs of working together (page 36). Elsewhere, in case you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live inside a rainbow – and who hasn’t – we were invited to look around Rhiannon Lewis’s joyfilled cottage in Splott, which is painted with an eightfoot rainbow and has had a multicoloured makeover which has been years in the making (page 51). Enjoy! #CardiffTogether

es, yn wir, mae gennym dri o actorion mwyaf enwog y byd, sef Brad Pitt, Charlize Theron ac Adam Driver, ar glawr y rhifyn hwn o Cardiff Life. Diolch i Breitling, y cwmni watshis moethus, am noddi’r rhifyn hwn o Cardiff Life ac am ddangos y tri thalentog a thrwsiadus hyn - sy’n cael eu hadnabod hefyd fel ‘Sgwad Sinema Breitling’ - ar ein clawr mwyaf serennog erioed. Fe drown ni ein sylw’n awr at yr hyn sydd i’w weld rhwng cloriau’r rhifyn hwn... Ar dudalen 10, rydym yn rhoi sylw i rai o siopau annibynnol gorau’r ddinas sydd i gyd yn yr un man, fel y gallwch siopa’n lleol heb orfod chwilio ym mhob twll a chornel. Mae yna farchnadoedd, canolfannau siopa dan do, rhodfeydd, canolfannau ar-lein, a hyd yn oed pentref siopa cyfan pwrpasol ar gyfer busnesau bach yng Nghaerdydd. Dyna lwc! Mae prysurdeb ac ymrwymiad siopau annibynnol lleol yn anhygoel; maent i gyd yn cynnig rhywbeth gwreiddiol ac arbennig. Ac er eu bod efallai’n fach ar eu pen eu hunain, maent yn enfawr gyda’i gilydd ac yn flaenllaw yng Nghaerdydd, sy’n golygu bod y ddinas yn lle mwy creadigol, lliwgar a llawn cymeriad i fyw ynddo. At hynny, mae gennym lwyth o gyfweliadau â phobl leol hynod o ddiddorol yn y rhifyn hwn. Rydym yn sgwrsio â’r actor Rakie Ayola, sy’n gwneud gwaith da ar y sgrin ac oddi arni ac sy’n sôn wrthym am ei rôl ddiweddaraf yng nghyfres dditectif gyffrous BBC Wales, The Pact (ar dudalen 24); rydym yn cael hanes Lavinia Neda sy’n gwerthu’r Big Issue ac y mae ei gwaith caled wedi trawsnewid ei bywyd (ar dudalen 66); ac rydym wedi bod yn siarad â llawer o berchnogion busnesau teuluol am fanteision ac anfanteision rhedeg busnes gyda’i gilydd (ar dudalen 36). Fel arall, os ydych erioed wedi meddwl sut brofiad yw byw mewn enfys – mae’n rhaid eich bod chi! – cawsom ein gwahodd i grwydro o amgylch bwthyn llawen Rhiannon Lewis yn y Sblot, y mae enfys wyth troedfedd o hyd wedi’i phaentio arno ac sydd wedi’i drawsnewid yn fwthyn amryliw dros gyfnod o flynyddoedd (ar dudalen 51). Mwynhewch! #CaerdyddYnghyd

LISA EVANS Follow us on Twitter @CardiffLifeMag Instagram @cardifflifemag

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Issue 236 / May 2021 COVER Three of the world’s most distinguished actors – Brad Pitt, Charlize Theron and Adam Driver – are on this issue’s front cover, all sporting Breitling timepieces. Big thanks to luxury watch retailer Breitling, which just opened a new boutique in Cardiff, for sponsoring this issue.

FEATURES

10 INDIE CITY The hubs, markets and venues all filled to

bursting with independent shops

24 BIG INTERVIEW Actor Rakie Ayola on her newest

role in BBC’s The Pact

36 FAMILY FORTUNES Families in business get frank

about what it’s like working with loved ones

THE ARTS

21 ARTS INTRO Get ready for the world premiere of

The Merthyr Stigmatist at the Sherman Theatre

22 WHAT’S ON Arts, shows and upcoming events, it’s

all going on in Cardiff

SHOPPING

33 SHOPPING INTRO The preloved clothing

resurgence at Lily Ann Vintage

34 EDITOR’S CHOICE Orange is a summer 2021

staple shade and local shops are dripping with it

FOOD & DRINK

42 FOOD NEWS Tasty morsels for you to chew on 43 SOCIAL EATS This new eatery may just have the

healthiest menu in town

PROPERTY

45 CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS All the goss from

our latest ceremony

51 RESIDENCE

Ever wondered what it’s like to live inside a rainbow? We’ll here’s your chance

BUSINESS

58 CARDIFFWORKS News and views and awesome

new businesses

63 MEET THE PRACTISE This is not dentistry as you

know it

REGULARS

9 SPOTLIGHT Just a couple of feel-good stories 31 WYBURN & WAYNE Guess who’s back, back again 66 CARDIFF LIVES A big Issue seller talks to us about

transforming her life

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Nathan Wyburn, Wayne Courtney and Sin Mei Lam Advertising manager Mark George mark.george@mediaclash. co.uk Account manager Claire Hawkins claire.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk Production/Distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Gemma Scrine gemma.scrine@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Cardiff Life MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash. We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

6 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT

Postman by day, die-hard musician by night, Conor’s put his own stamp on indie pop with his new single

Everybody’s talking about…

NO PANIC, JUST DISCO

If you live in Llanrumney, St Mellons or Roath, you may have had letters pushed through your door by Conor Latcham. And lucky you because Conor’s a hit; when his postie shifts are done and dusted for the day, he lives and breathes music, and he’s now brought out his debut single as a solo artist. “After I separated from my indie rock band of eight years, which had played in every Cardiﬀ venue, I had no songs, no money, no team around me, and had publicly announced I was starting a disco solo project (even though I’d never written or performed a disco song!),” says the former Rainbow Maniac frontman. “I had to borrow equipment and was basically in a race against time to write and create demos before all my equipment fell apart. Now I’ve got a whole bunch of songs, and my disco debut, ‘Do You Think You’re in Love?’ under Trident Records, has had over 1,100 plays in its ﬁrst week, and I’m very happy and grateful.” The track features Luke Marc Hughes on drums (Lewis Capaldi, Tom Odell), and has been mastered by Barry Grint (Madonna, Prince, Bowie, Beatles, Oasis). For more: www.imconorlatcham.com

Arts

PAINT THE TOWN

Cowbridge Road East is getting a one-of-a-kind makeover

The first road crossing of its kind in Cardiff is on its way (and may even have arrived by the time you’re reading this). Following an open call for submissions – that attracted more than 50 applications from artists, designers and illustrators – Steffan Dafydd’s design was selected to be installed on a new Cardiff road crossing, located on Cowbridge Road East. More than 1,000 local people voted on the street art that they wanted to see come to life, and Steffan’s design, which explores the local culture, history and architecture of this busy area of Canton, was the winner. “I’m ecstatic that the public voted for my design to be installed,” says Steffan. “I love Canton, I grew up and still live here and I’m very proud to have been given the opportunity to contribute to the area.” This project, organised by Chapter Arts Centre in partnership with Cardiff Council, is part of a wider neighbourhood renewal scheme of Cowbridge Road East – home to a range of local businesses which are valued by the community – that aims to add rain gardens and street furniture. For more: www.chapter.org

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INDIE CITY We live and breathe independent businesses here at Cardiff Life, and what’s better than one indie? A whole bunch of them. So here are some of our favourite local collectives, markets, hubs, umbrellas and groups, all featuring a ton of local small businesses inside their walls By Lisa Evans

Goodsheds is constructed out of repurposed shipping containers to create a ‘container village’

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“Goodsheds is a unique village oﬀering food, retail, gym facilities and places to do business”

INDIE COLLECTIVES

oes this sound familiar: you really, truly want to support Cardiff’s small, independent businesses but you genuinely don’t know where to look, so you head to that one particular convenient online retail giant for all of your buying needs? It is sometimes tough to sniff out one singular independent shop selling one certain thing you need, but thankfully Cardiff has a whole bunch of hubs and collectives crammed with small businesses, so you can shop all your favourite independents in one place without having to search high and low, and on these pages we’re going to take a look at 17 of them. Indie business owners often put everything on the line to open their own ventures, so choosing to support them is not only an act of respect and an acknowledgment of their hustle and commitment, it also means you bag something original and awesome. Let’s hear it for the indies!

GOODSHEDS

In a nutshell: Repurposing the heart of the original Barry dock, the Goodsheds is a unique ‘container’ village offering food, drink, retail, gym facilities and a place to do Where did the Goodsheds idea come from? business. You’ll find different “From the success of the areas here: The Shipyard, which Pumphouse opposite and the is constructed entirely of 54 transformative nature of the repurposed shipping containers, housing developments in Barry,” says Simon Baston, director. “We stacked with indie businesses wanted to take a look at how bringing you a variety of offerings; we create a very sustainable The Tracks, a retail area, on the and super low-carbon footprint original railway tracks, inside a environment that is close to a train station, walkable, flat for series of repurposed Gatwick cycling, and somewhere that all express carriages reserved for the neighbouring businesses traditional, artisanal traders, could trade off one another.” a cinema, and a space to hire for events and meetings; and The Sidings, the tall red brick centrepiece of Goodsheds which has transitioned from housing railway carriages in the height of the industrial boom to now housing commercial units with luxury serviced

apartments above. Where is it: The centre of Barry. Tell us more: “It’s the first urban high street in the UK that reflects what an independent-minded person will need in terms of the way they live, work and play,” says Simon Baston, director. “The idea was to create a whole new independent experience for Barry. It offers a collaborative experience for many businesses to be able to work side by side and complement one another in what you might describe as a modern market.” What sorts of business are there? “There’s niche retail, various restaurants, beauty salons, a full-blown produce market, apartments/ hotel, a drive thru coffee shop, and an outdoor gym etc.” How has it grown? “Even during the pandemic, it has grown fantastically well and there is a waiting list of over six pages of tenants who would like to become part of this community. The aspirations and aims of this, is for it to be firmly entrenched in the minds of the people in Barry in terms of how they can use independent businesses and collaborate in a much more sociable and interactive nature. While there is obviously a huge place for internet shopping and the supermarkets, we believe that people want to reconnect and redefine their areas with what they perceive as important.”

Why is it important that we all support independent businesses?

“Wales in fact is 95 per cent SME. There is a tsunami of change in terms of what we as the public want on a live-work basis, and there are clearly grey lines between how we live, work and play as opposed to the preconceived idea of: travelling into an office nine to five, collecting shopping on the way home, going to the gym and then cooking our evening meal. Without a shadow of a doubt, people now require complete flexibility and that level of reconnection on a social level is paramount.” www.goodshedsbarry.co.uk

Constructed entirely of 54 shipping containers, Goodsheds is stacked top to bottom with a mix of independents bringing you everything from cocktails and street food, to clothing and accessories

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“It became a hub for the local community, creating life and vibrancy during lockdown”

CLEARWATER PARADE

In a nutshell: It’s an indie shopping parade

featuring awesome varied small businesses, from a gourmet doughnut shop to a café that explores the world’s ﬁnest teas. The parade was set up to cater the needs of the local community, especially during lockdown. Where is it: Clearwater Way, Lakeside. Tell us more: “It started with me looking for a site for my business, Wing Stack,” says Shaz Haris, who runs Clearwater Parade as a collective with the other businesses there. “My friend Kas Ali from Waterloo Tea (also at the Parade) introduced me to Kash From Silver Crescent Development who was very supportive with favourable rents for units, which enabled me to talk to interested businesses who wanted to be part of this collective. I live and was brought up locally so it’s home for me.” What businesses will we find there?

“Everything from The Dropbar Workshop – a bike workshop and bottle bar serving wines and craft beer – to urban jungle plant shop The Elephant’s Ear.” How has Clearwater Parade been received? “It became a hub for the local

community, creating life and vibrancy during the lockdown.” @Clearwaterparade

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Husband and wife Ashley and Rachael Parfitt, who run Cardiff Dough and Co at Clearwater Parade, celebrating the opening

INDIE COLLECTIVES was a lovely community feel behind it. Business owners were meeting each other virtually, making connections and providing solidarity on a day that can often otherwise feel a little bit deflating.” And how has it grown?

“I had always had the dream of turning it into something more permanent, and then when I was eight and a half months pregnant, I decided that would be a great time(!), and then lockdown happened. But there could not have been a more perfect time to launch it with the push to support local businesses. We ran a crowdfunder and the website was born; we also have a loyalty card scheme so you can get discounts and special offers.” www.cardiffindiecollective.co.uk

THE COORP

Where is it: Canton. Tell us more: “Our vision for transforming The Corporation pub is

above: The Coorp, which is set to open soon, will be a hub for small businesses, from vintage clothing sellers to beauticians : right: Cardiff Indie Collective offers a loyalty card scheme to encourage locals to support small

CARDIFF INDIE COLLECTIVE

In a nutshell: It’s an online group of small businesses in Cardiff, acting

as a directory of indies: a map so you can find them, a calendar of events, a blog, and a space to discover some great new businesses, all encouraging people to shop locally. Where is it: Online, based in Cardiff. Tell us more: “There are over 60 of us at the moment,” says Rhian Pitt, founder. “We have 12 categories of business: from gift shops, homeware and wellbeing, to kids, art, food, clothing and weddings. There are too many amazing businesses to mention, but here are a few: Blossom & Nectar, Penylan Pantry, Tabitha Eve, Ty Melin Bakery, Matico, Sarah Glazier Ceramics, Plas Pilates and Create Salon.” What sparked the idea? “It all started in the run up to Black Friday in 2018. I was feeling really sad seeing all the indie businesses drowned out What’s the dream? by the big corporations, unable to “The top aspiration would offer the same discounts, so I started be to become our own mini a local ‘gift exchange’ on Instagram Cardiff version of Amazon, and that people would come where small businesses could post to our website to shop before pictures of items they were willing choosing to go to the to exchange with one another. It bigger corporations.” was really successful and there

one that keeps it in pride of place in the community and breathes new life into a building that has been vacant for far too long,” says Jahan Abedi, owner of The Chameleon Group. “We’re extremely excited to In a nutshell: collaborate with Cardiff’s most lovedHistoric Pub The Corporation local businesses as well as showcasing will soon transform into one businesses in their infancy at The of Cardiff’s most exciting new Coorp. Cardiff has an extremely independent business hubs. The plan is for it to open diverse scene of independent traders sometime in spring, and it and it is clear that our communities aims to feature businesses have reconnected with shopping ranging from traders of local through these difficult times.” organic foods and vintage clothing, to artists and What else: The venture will build on crafts people, plus barbers, the success of The Corporation Yard beauticians and more. market which has become hugely successful over the past year. The new venue will have doors that open onto the yard itself which will continue to feature a rotation of independent traders and street food vendors. The space has been conceptualised and created by Cardiff’s Tim Rice Designs, the visionary behind some of Cardiff’s most on-trend venues. It will boast a rustic and industrial feel that is warmed with suspended greenery and neon lighting, and there will be seating areas throughout for people to relax and enjoy the best of local goods, food and drinks. www.coorp.co.uk

“The top aspiration would be to become our own mini Cardiff version of Amazon” www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 13

The Castle Emporium’s edgy array of indies includes a tattoo parlour and a radical bookshop

THE CASTLE EMPORIUM

Where is it: Womanby Street, Cardiff. Tell us more: “We’re currently expanding and have lots of room

and bias in the industry and working with our whole community,” says co-founder Paisley Alice Randell Shillabeer. “Our aim is for Umbrella to become a central point where we connect individuals, organisations What started the idea? and all pockets of art efforts in “The co-founders and I noticed Cardiff (and beyond), as we believe how disconnected the art working together makes us stronger. institutions and groups in We use our digital platforms and Cardiff felt to us as emerging artists. It seemed as though the physical spaces to promote artists incredible work that’s going and expose their work. We show on in Cardiff was isolated; that frequent exhibitions, and this year was something we felt should we hope to run workshops and talks absolutely change.” and be open to the public regularly.”

for even more indies, with our most recent addition being Vegato, specialising in Sicilian foods,” says Emily Michael who manages The Castle Emporium. “We welcome a wide range of businesses; variety and originality are encouraged. We would love more ethical businesses to join us such as maybe a vegan wholefood shop, a bakery and a sustainable clothing store.” Take us back to the start: “The In a nutshell: idea was to create an affordable It’s an independent shopping base for small and independent hub filled with a community of edgy entrepreneurs – from a business. By sharing the costs and skate store and a metaphysical responsibilities it is a viable and shop, to an all-female barber exciting platform in central Cardiff room – all based in a converted to run a successful business from. 20s cinema. It was called the Cardiff Fashion Quarter for a few years with mainly vintage clothes and market stalls, then changed to TCE in 2015 and has been evolving and progressing ever since.” Why do you love the indies? “They are special because they are driven by passion, skill, talent and determination. The people behind the business are the ones that give it character and the ones that work hard because they really care.” www.thecastleemporium.co.uk

and organisations. Our inaugural exhibition last summer featured the work of over 60 artists, which was a huge accomplishment to be able to involve so many people. We try to promote the efforts of all the creative groups in Cardiff, sharing their events, opportunities, successes, open calls and shows.” What are the aims and aspirations: “We want to continue our ‘Open Desk’ initiative, where we invite two artists to work in our HQ for two months, ending in a shared exhibition of their work. We’re looking forward to exhibiting more this year.” @cardiffumbrella

UMBRELLA ART COLLECTIVE

RED DOOR STUDIOS

elevate artists. Where is it: In the Capitol Centre on Queen’s Street. Tell us more: “Our ethos, ‘art for all’, is about challenging expectations

Where is it: Kings Road Yard, Pontcanna. Tell us more: “We have six artist designer-makers,” says David

In a nutshell: An artist-run collective working to support, connect and

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How has it developed since day one? “We now work with, and are connected to, numerous artists

In a nutshell: A creative, multidisciplinary space that houses a varied

mix of local independent makers and artists.

INDIE COLLECTIVES

“Our biggest aim is for Cardiff to be recognised as the capital of creativity in the UK” left: Megan Davies’s ceramics stall inside Red Door Studios: below: Red Door Studios regularly opens to the public on weekends to both display and sell makers’ wares

What was the starting point for Red Door? “The studio has been running for 10 years. The idea was to create an affordable, creative space to enable established artists and recent graduates to explore their practices.”

Sopwith, who runs it. “Each maker has their own individual space within the studio, showcasing their own style and discipline, for example, there’s bespoke wooden crafts, ceramics, jewellery and abstract and textile art.” Is it an open studio? “We regularly open to the public on weekends to both display and sell what we make. This has been very successful for all the members, allowing the general public to talk to the makers and artists and explore their practices.” Why is handmade better, in your opinion? “I feel that after a while

certain product types can become too manufactured and generic; you see the same styles in every high street shop. We have a golden opportunity to make bespoke and dynamic pieces and the customer can take satisfaction in this knowing that they are the only one with this unique product.” @reddoorstudioscardiff

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INDIE COLLECTIVES CREATIVE CARDIFF

In a nutshell: It’s a network which connects people working in any creative organisation, business or job in Cardiff. By encouraging people to work together they believe that they can make Cardiff the most creative place it can be. Where is it: City Hall, Cardiff. Tell us more: “Creative Cardiff has almost 4,000 members When was it created? “It launched in 2015 and its in its directory, ranging from aims were: to create a network individual freelancers and small connecting creative organisations independent businesses to large and freelancers across the city’s national organisations,” says creative economy, to promote collaborations and to conduct Vicki Sutton, project manager. research to enable innovation and “Our members include dancers growth in the creative industries.” and designers, architects and coders – anyone working in the creative economy.” What are the aspirations? “Our biggest aim is for Cardiff to be recognised as the capital of creativity in the UK.” What makes indies so special? “In our experience, the individuals or small teams who have the initiative and drive to start their own businesses are often the most brilliant, creative, and determined, and should be celebrated and supported.” www.creativecardiff.org.uk

“We have cultivated thriving communities of innovative, like-minded people” You can find over 80 different traders at the Indie Superstore sites every weekend

INDIE SUPERSTORE

In a nutshell: It’s a series of markets that aim to support small, featuring businesses such as Gays Who Wine – an indie wine shop – and The Rogue Welsh Cake Company. Where is it: They currently have sites at: The Railway Hotel in Llandaff North (running Fridays and Saturdays) and on Clearwater Way in Lakeside (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays). They will also soon be opening back up where they originally started, at The Corporation Yard in Canton (Saturdays and Sundays). Tell us more: “Our outdoor events at Llandaff North, Lakeside and Canton include both farmers’ markets and makers’ markets,” says Grant Jones, who runs Indie Superstore. “We have so far supported over 250 business and you can find over 80 different traders over our sites each weekend. At Clearwater Way, we also have our indoor market shop that consists of seven different businesses, selling everything from vintage clothes to milkshakes.” @indiesuperstore

O DAN NOS DA

In a nutshell: A colourful, creative collective in the heart of Cardiff,

making use of an unused and unusual space.

Where is it: Despenser Street,

in Cardiff.

Gays Who Wine is just one of the small businesses at Indie Superstore

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Tell us more: “At the moment, we are a made up of ‘Twin Made’, a business offering colourful and creative workshops, from dungareemaking to neon signs, and ‘Silly Panda’, which makes colourful

Why should we support independent businesses? “Cardiff has some amazingly talented people and so many hidden gems and places where small businesses have taken over and made a mark.”

Yurt in the City is a holistic retreat based at Meanwhile House

cloth nappies and reusable sanitary pads,” says Charlotte Peacock of Twin Made, who runs the space. “Big Girls Tattoo Club, a female-fronted tattoo collective, was also here up until a little while ago. And we also have several people who use the studios as and when they need them.” What was the starting point? “Making use of an unused and unusual space in Cardiff. What was once an infrequently used function room in a basement is now an exciting space. We have become the spring board for businesses to use to grow and develop.” www.odannosda.com

WARRIOR WOMEN COLLECTIVE

In a nutshell: It’s a network that aims to empower and celebrate women through its events and community, giving women a platform to share their journeys and experiences. Where is it: Currently online, based in Cardiff, but pre-pandemic events took place at Tramshed Tech. How did it come about? “It all began back in 2017 when we decided to create a networking event with a difference in our hometown of Cardiff,” says Charlie Morgan, co-founder. “Past networking events we attended were often suitable for just one type of person, and we found Tell us more: “We have thousands and that they didn’t benefit our thousands of members of careers or us as women. We our tribe. Warrior Women wanted to create a space where Collective is made up of like-minded women could be our events – in-person and virtual – our social community, inspired, educated and make newsletters, content, blog and meaningful connections. As our podcasts.” we started running our events, we quickly realised there was something magical about watching a room full of women supporting and learning from one another.” And how has it grown? “We’ve had to move venue three times to keep up with demand; we’ve held over 30 sell-out events with over 2,000 women attending. www.warriorwomencollective.co.uk

MEANWHILE HOUSE CARDIFF / CARDIFF CONTAINERS

In a nutshell: It provides over 70 affordable, self-contained studios for

Cardiff’s creatives, start-ups and entrepreneurs.

Where is it: Williams Way, Curran Embankment, Cardiff. Tell us more: “There’s a real mix of people here, with artists,

designers, therapists, chocolatiers, theatre companies and bike shops all calling it home, there’s even a full-sized yurt in one of the studios!” says Emily Kakili, creative site manager. What is its aim? “Meanwhile Creative was established with two goals in mind: to unlock dormant commercial space for positive use and to curate flexible work space for creatives, start-ups and small businesses. Meanwhile Creative started life in an old police station Bristol in 2013, with Meanwhile House being the company’s first project outside of Bristol, launching in 2016. We have cultivated thriving communities of innovative, like-minded people, while also creating spaces for networking and collaboration.” How has it grown? “Initially we had Meanwhile House, then in 2018 we launched Cardiff Containers – a collection of shipping containers transformed into workshop and offices – that sit right next door to Meanwhile House. Last year we also added a further four maker cabins to the rear of the building. We are now in the process of Reckon there’s anything else expanding Cardiff Containers with we should know? “We do regular write ups of our the addition of a further 28 units, tenants across our social media creating three layers of containers channels and blog, so if you’d stacked on top of each other. There like to know more about the are also plans to add an on-site businesses we have here, give us a follow on café, urban gym and maybe even a @meanwhilehousecardiff.” rooftop campsite as we continue in our quest to transform our corner of a Cardiff industrial estate into something extraordinary.” What makes indies so special? “Indie businesses are run by real people, not by boards or stakeholders; there’s someone there who really cares about the quality of the product or service they offer. By supporting independent you’re helping someone to live their dream – what’s better than that?!” www.meanwhilecreative.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 17

INDIE EATS

Where is it: Across Cardiff How many businesses are in the collective? “We have 20 active

indies, and it’s growing every week,” says Ed Choo who runs the platform. “These include some of Cardiff’s best pizza specialists including Anatoni’s Pizzeria, Dusty’s, and Romeat, there are In a nutshell: also Asian and South-East Asian It’s an independent food options with Purple Poppadom delivery platform created during the first lockdown with the and Happy Lok Diner respectively, goal of providing independent plus a number of vegan options businesses with an alternative to such as Anna-Loka, Luna’s Vegan the likes of Uber Eats, Just Eat Corner and Mugs & Momos, with and Deliveroo. many more on offer.” What was the starting point?

“The idea came out of a discussion between myself and Phill Lewis from Dusty’s back in 2020. Phill suggested Cardiff could really do with an independent delivery platform to rally behind that offered small hospitality businesses an alternative to paying the high commissions offered by some of the other more established players. I was already offering independent businesses ‘online ordering’ services at the time, so this seemed like a logical step up. With the help of a few local indies including Dusty’s we trialled it for a few months in July 2020 and have been running ever since. We have been able to consistently pay our couriers above the ‘Real Living Wage’ per hour, as stated by the Living Wage Foundation, which I’m very proud of.” What are the future goals? “We’re a relatively young business and since we don’t have enormous advertising and marketing budgets that others do, not many people know who we are. We’re hoping to change this throughout 2021 by increasing our customer base through different awareness campaigns and by giving back to the community who have supported us. One way is through offering customers fortnightly £25 voucher competitions for our indies, with another offering 10 per cent off on midweek orders. We also continue to donate one per cent of our earnings to worthwhile charities in Cardiff.” www.indieeats.co.uk

“Our indies include some of Cardiff’s best pizza specialists, and there are plenty of vegan options ”

Indie Eats is Cardiff’s answer to an all-small Deliveroo

18 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

INDIE COLLECTIVES WARWICK HALL STUDIOS In a nutshell: These are affordable

artists’ studios.

Where is it: Off Banastre Avenue. Tell us more: “This is a collective of

creatives – from painters and sculptors to theatre set designers and digital producers – housed in 16 individual studio spaces,” says Matt Cook who runs it. “We converted the ground floor from music studios in order to provide artists’ studios. We are not for profit, and the rents only cover the overheads. The main aspiration is that we keep the initiative alive, so that it will still be around for many more years to come.” How has it grown? “Over the decade I’ve managed it, the collective has become much more stable and mutually supportive. We hold regular open days for the public and welcome the local community. Independent business like ours foster a community of like-minded people and build support networks which in turn enriches culture.” www.warwickhall.studio The makers and creatives at Warwick Hall Studios include Buddug (left) and Gabrielle Jessica Frazer (below)

YET MORE INDIE COLLECTIVES TO LOOK OUT FOR The Bone Yard Located on a former industrial site on Paper Mill Road is the Bone Yard, made up of shipping containers filled with artists, makers and creators. Regular markets are held here too. www.shippingcontainerstudios.co.uk Shop Local Wales This online platform originally started as a shopping scheme, but since Covid, it’s now a free platform for Welsh small businesses. Their hashtag #shoplocalwales is a great way to find lots of businesses all in one place. www.shoplocalwales.co.uk

Kings Road Yard A creative mews in Pontcanna. The courtyard is home to the renowned Kings Road Artists as well as a cluster of artisan establishments and creative businesses. www.kingsroadyard.co.uk

Chapter Arts As well as being a treasured live venue, Chapter, in Canton, houses 53 creative companies and individual artists. www.chapter.org

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 19

THE ALBANY GALLERY THOMAS HASKETT PETER MORGAN MALCOLM MURPHY ELEANOR WHITEMAN 8th April - 1st May 2021 MAGGIE BROWN - solo exhibition 6th May - 29th May 2021

View images on our website www.albanygallery.com Please check our website for opening hours. 74b Albany Road, Cardiff, CF24 3RS | T: 029 2048 7158 | E: info@albanygallery.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT US ONLINE AT: WWW.VALEVETCENTRE.CO.UK Cardiff: 233 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9PP. E-mail: cardiff@valevetcentre.co.uk | Phone: 02920 004007

Barry: 7/8 Ty Verlon Ind Est, Cardiff Rd, Vale of Glamorgan, CF63 2BE. E-mail: info@valevetcentre.co.uk | Phone: 01446 739739

THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F C A R D I F F ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

PLAY GOD Get ready for the world premiere of The Merthyr Stigmatist in a fully-staged digital production recorded at Cardiﬀ’s Sherman Theatre Studio. The play, written by Wales-based playwright Lisa Parry, is a co-production with Theatre Uncut and the Sherman Theatre. Taking place in a Merthyr Tydﬁl classroom, Parry’s exhilarating plot sees faith, reason and politics collide when Carys, a 16-year-old school pupil claims to have received the wounds of Christ. Carys is convinced that her wounds are a sign from God and is crying out to be heard. Carys’s teacher is not so sure; she believes silencing Carys will keep her safe, but can she make sense of what is happening to her young pupil? “This play’s been screaming at me daily from my desktop,” says Lisa. “I feel like I’ve been placating it in

a way, knowing it has something relevant to say but fully aware that the theatres are closed – it’s been an odd experience. So I’m beyond happy that it’s coming to life with the unstoppable Theatre Uncut and Sherman Theatre. We need theatre more than ever right now and I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to help make it with such amazing and talented people. I’ve always loved how audience members’ heartbeats synchronise when we all share a space. While we can’t do that right now, I really hope the play will send some of that communal magic down internet connections and into homes.” See The Merthyr Stigmatist 27 May – 12 June from the comfort of your own home, via Sherman Theatre’s website; www.shermantheatre.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 21

WHAT’S ON From 24 April onwards

Tafwyl celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. See the festival at Cardiff Castle in May

PLAYS / SHOWS / PERFORMANCES Until the end of May

FEEL GOOD FILM FESTIVAL A brand-new film festival celebrating positivity and the art of happiness is making its world premiere in the UK this March. Launching virtually, the Feel Good Film Festival features a collection of hilarious and heartwarming short films. “From joyful explorations of wacky subcultures to heartfelt tales of triumph over adversity, the Feel Good Film Festival is a dose of joy and inspiration – delivered to your sofa!” says festival director Nell Teasdale. www.feelgoodfilmfest.com

8 – 15 May

TAFWYL Tafwyl festival celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. Among the musicians performing are Geraint Jarman, Mared, Cowbois Rhos Botwnnog, Ani Glass, Gwilym, and Breichiau Hir. Fifteen bands will perform across three stages, curated by Clwb Ifor Bach. The event will be streamed on the digital platform AM, live from the festival's home at Cardiff Castle, hosted by presenters Huw Stephens, Seren Jones and Tara

Always check Covid-19 restrictions and instructions with venues before your visit

Bethan. As well as the live music there will be an exciting mix of discussions, talks and workshops for children in an ambitious programme of varied events. www.tafwyl.cymru

27 May – 12 June

THE WORLD PREMIERE OF THE MERTHYR STIGMATIST Sherman Theatre and Theatre Uncut will present the world premiere of The Merthyr Stigmatist in a fully-staged digital production recorded in the Sherman Theatre Studio. The play, written by Walesbased playwright Lisa Parry, will be available to watch online and on demand in May. See page 21 for more. Sherman Theatre and Theatre Uncut; www.shermantheatre.co.uk; www.theatreuncut.com

NEW RELEASES DO YOU THINK YOU’RE IN LOVE? Cardiff musician Conor Latcham, who lives in Ely, and is a postman in Llanrumney, St Mellons and Roath, brought out his debut single, Do You Think You’re in Love? in March under Trident Records. It’s a contemporary disco-pop record with indie rock

22 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

influences. ’Grats, Conor! www.imconorlatcham.com BROKEN FIRES South Wales trio Broken Fires are back with their first music in five years. Signing with Cardiff's Phwoar & Peace Records, the band have released Dreamer as their first music for the label. Recorded at Mwnci Studios, it’s a short and sweet, fuzzy, energetic guitar-pop track. www.brokenfires.bandcamp.com

ART/ PHOTOGRAPHY/ EXHIBITIONS Until 25 April

HOLDING ON TO HOPE An exhibition and affordable art sale celebrating a community who bonded during the pandemic – a time where connection through creativity became a lifeline – will take place at The Hearth Gallery and online through the Arts for Health and Wellbeing website. The team at community art school Beth Morris Workshops met with students of all ages and abilities virtually throughout the pandemic bringing words, pictures

and hope together; this collection of art works aim to comfort, inspire and be enjoyed. The Hearth Gallery; www.cardiffandvale.art

Until 1 May

ART SHOW An exhibition of new work from four popular gallery artists – Thomas Haskett, Peter Morgan, Eleanor Whiteman, Malcolm Murphy – depicts the Welsh landscape, coast and urban scenes in their favoured media and style. Albany Gallery; www.albanygallery.co.uk

Until the end May

PORTRAITS OF SOUND Portraits of Sound is an exhibition of work by JP Jones, an international contemporary artist and acclaimed musician. Motivated by his quest to marry his two greatest passions – music and art – he has created a visual language from the invisible patterns of sound, a technique which has been welcomed and revered by the deaf community, due to its eradication of the confines of sensory limitations. Blackwater Gallery; www.blackwatergallery.co.uk

WHAT’S ON 2 and 3 October

INSIDE OUT FESTIVAL Be enveloped by sights and sounds that will stimulate all of your senses. Inside Out brings the best of the outside world, in to the festival. Welcome. To. Utopia. Bute Park; www.insideoutcardiff.co.uk

Until 5 September

ARTES MUNDI 9 Artes Mundi is the key internationally focused flagship visual arts organisation in Wales generating unique opportunities for individuals and local communities to engage creatively with the urgent issues of our time in ways which resonate with us all. The ninth edition of the critically acclaimed Artes Mundi exhibition and associated prize is presented across Cardiff in partnership with the National Museum Cardiff, Chapter and g39. The exhibition will feature work in a diverse range of media and will open when lockdown restrictions allow. At the moment, the exhibition will be available for you to experience from home. www.artesmundi.org

FOOD & DRINK 25 April (and every Sunday thereafter)

FRESH & WILD The Fresh & Wild foodie market is now weekly. The lovely Canton-based food market will now be offering up delicious delights from local producers every Sunday. The Bone Yard; www.shippingcontainerstudios.co.uk

26 April – 3 May

STREET FOOD SOCIAL Depot’s reopening week starts on 26 April, during which they’ll be hosting

above: Artes Mundi is being presented across Cardiff left: Singer Laura Marling is coming to Tramshed as part of her UK tour

their incredibly popular Street Food Social once again. Depot Cardiff; www.depotcardiff.com

OTHER April

THE OPENING OF ZIP WORLD TOWER Zip World has announced that its new site in South Wales, Zip World Tower, will be opening to visitors in April (it should open on 22 April at the time of writing) . Set in the iconic Rhigos mountain range with stunning views that overlook beautiful Welsh landscapes including the Brecon Beacons, the rich mining history of Tower Colliery meant it was the ideal destination for Zip World to launch its first ever site outside of North Wales. Zip World; www.zipworld.co.uk

30 April

AN ONLINE EVENING WITH WYBURN & WAYNE Our fantastic Cardiff Life columnists (who you can see on page 31) are putting on a show! Continuing their fundraising for the NHS, and as proud patrons for the Cardiff & Vale Health Charity, they’ll be featuring in their very own ‘evening with’, singing their favourites and some requests too. This will be online via their social media. There’ll be a few special guests too. @wyburnandwayne / @wayburnwayne

COMING SOON… 17 – 20 June

THE FILM & FOOD FEST 2021 A first of its kind open-air film festival, is visiting 15 UK cities this summer, including Cardiff. Taking place over four days in each location, the festival will show everything from indie films to live comedy, and there’ll be street food galore. Bute Park; www.filmandfoodfest.com

26 – 27 June

CARDIFF TRIATHLON Located in the iconic Cardiff Bay, this triathlon is one of the most unforgettable city races on the calendar with the event village positioned in front of the Wales Millennium Centre. Roald Dahl Plass, www.alwaysaimhighevents.com

14 August

DEPOT IN THE CASTLE This event has been rescheduled, and organisers have also added a new act, with Tom Grennan confirmed to support Kaiser Chiefs. Cardiff Castle; www.depotcardiff.com

LAURA MARLING LIVE The singer has announced her UK autumn tour, the first uk shows in support of her Grammy- and Mercury Prize-nominated album, Song For Our Daughter Tramshed; www.tramshedcardiff.com

9 December 2021 – 15 January 2022

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Disney’s Olivier Award-winning stage musical Beauty and the Beast is to be re-imagined in a new production staged by the original award-winning creative team. Rob Roth, a Tony-nominee for the original production, will again direct, leading a team that includes composer Alan Menken, lyricist Tim Rice, bookwriter Linda Woolverton, choreographer Matt West, scenic designer Stan Meyer, costume designer Ann Hould-Ward and lighting designer Natasha Katz. The team collectively received five Tony nominations and a win for Hould-Ward’s costume design, when Disney first debuted Beauty and the Beast on Broadway 26 years ago. Tickets for this are out now, so get yours while you still can. Wales Millennium Centre; www.wmc.org.uk n

2022 ANNOUNCEMENTS

21 August

1 May, 2022

SHANGRI-LA The open-air dance festival will take place at Cardiff Castle this summer and will be their biggest event to date. Line-up coming soon. Cardiff Castle; @shangagram

7 – 12 September

13 October

VIRTUAL WALKING FESTIVAL Outdooractive, Europe’s largest digital outdoor tourism platform, launches its ‘Virtual Walking Festival 2021, working with Walking Festivals, including the Vale of Glamorgan Walking Festival, to offer a selection of self-guided walks and support local businesses. During the Vale of Glamorgan Walking Festival, you can enjoy a spectacular variety of walks for all levels, travelling in good company and guided by experienced walk leaders.  www.outdooractive.com

METRONOMY Ahead of the release of the 10th anniversary reissue of Metronomy’s career-changing album The English Riviera, the group have announced a new UK tour taking in 12 dates including Cardiff’s Tramshed. Tramshed; www.tramshedcardiff.com

2 June, 2022

THE HOLLIES One of the most iconic bands in British music, The Hollies, have moved their UK tour, originally scheduled for Autumn 2021, to next year in order to celebrate their 60th anniversary. St David’s Hall; www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 23

Rakie grew up in Ely and says it’s been lovely to be back in Wales working on Welsh projects

“I realised that when I lived in Cardiff full time, I didn’t appreciate it and I didn’t take it all in; I really love it now” 24 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

THE BIG INTERVIEW

MATTER OF ACT

Like Hinterland, Keeping Faith and Hidden before it, The Pact, a new six-part crime drama for BBC One, brings together the best in the business to do their best work. The show follows the story of five friends, a sudden death and a web of lies. It’s the first commission for the Cardiff-based independent production company Little Door Productions, and the strong cast features local actor Rakie Ayola, who plays detective superintendent Helen Holland. Here we have a nostalgic chat with her... Words by Lisa Evans www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 25

ith its strong female-led cast and gripping storyline, The Pact is set to become BBC One’s next highly anticipated hit, featuring the likes of Breaking Bad star Laura Fraser, Julie Hesmondhalgh of Broadchurch and Coronation Street, and Eiry Thomas of Keeping Faith. It’s been produced by Cardiff-based independent production company Little Door Productions, and was written and created by Pete McTighe of Doctor Who, A Discovery of Witches, and Wentworth. Ahead of the show’s debut in mid-May, Cardiff actor Rakie Ayola tells us what to expect... Tell us about The Pact from your point of view…

It tells the story of a group of friends who work together at a brewery; they make a decision one night which turns out to be the worst decision they’ve made in their lives, and their lives spiral out of control as a result. © R A ZIA NAQVI-JUKES

How would you describe your character?

I play detective superintendent Helen Holland who comes in to investigate the crime. She is somewhat eccentric and a bit quirky; she’s beautifully written in that respect. She’s also an excellent detective and an excellent team leader. There’s a very strong cast, what was it like to work with them?

Some of Rakie’s happiest times have been working on location in Wales

The cast are amazing. I got to work with Jason Hughes again; I’ve known Jason since we were in our early 20s, and I worked with him in 2019 on a National Theatre Wales Royal Court co-production On Bear Ridge. We performed that at the Sherman Theatre in Cardiff, so it was great to work with him again. I also got to work with Eiry Thomas who I’ve known since we were at the South Glamorgan Youth Theatre and then the National Youth Theatre of Wales. We also share a birthday; we were born on the same day in the same year so that’s lovely, and we had never worked together professionally so that was a big deal. We then went on to do Iaith ar Daith for S4C and Eiry was my Welsh speaking mentor on that Welsh learning programme, which can be found on iPlayer. I also got to work with Laura Fraser who I’d never worked with before, who was delightful and whose work I very much admire and have admired in the past. There was also Julie Hesmondhalgh who I’ve never worked with but I’m a huge fan of. We met briefly once at a famously wet Glastonbury and I took my daughter to the children’s tent to watch a show so that we could do something indoors undercover and Julie and her husband sat down next to me. It was great to be working in Wales. There were other people working on the show that I know, like Mark Lewis Jones, who I’ve known for a long time. It was a really classy cast to be a part of.

characters, and you can get involved in their lives. It’s very grown up and it’s serious, but there is fun and there are laughs and then it gets very tense – it’s that sort of rollercoaster that I think people want out of an hour of telly and I think you can invest in the lives of these characters. There is possibility to really feel for them and want them to succeed although they make such crazy choices, that you’ll probably also end up screaming at the telly, ‘Nooo, don’t do that!’.

“I feel that I’m more and more of a Cardiff girl as every year passes. I’ve been feeling very nostalgic recently”

Why would you recommend that people tune in?

Because they’re going to see a cast of primarily women; it’s a series that’s led by women and has women at the centre of the stories, which is just always, for my money, worth tuning in to. And Pete McTighe has written such a good yarn; it’s involved, you can go on a journey with the

26 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

It’ll be hard to choose, but what have been your stand-out career moments?

That’s a bit like asking someone to choose their favourite child, but just thinking of things that have happened recently, I would say playing Gee Walker in Anthony, the Jimmy McGovern piece for the BBC; that was a huge privilege to meet Gee and to be trusted to play her in a beautifully written piece. Emotionally, it asked a lot of all of us and I think everyone delivered and the fact that Gee Walker was pleased with the outcome made it even more of a special thing. Going back before that, On Bear Ridge with Rhys Ifans, Jason Hughes and Sion Daniel Young. The four of us had a ball in Ed Thomas’ play, which was his first play for I think 12 years. That was a standout moment. They are very special and they will stay special, both of those productions, one theatre, one TV. What is in the pipeline for you?

I’m currently filming Alex Rider for Amazon Prime and Sony. It’s the second series. We’re filming that primarily in Bristol, although we do film bits of it in Cardiff. The American Embassy in London is actually one of the beautiful civic buildings in Cardiff, and I’m playing the deputy director of the CIA in that.

THE BIG INTERVIEW How would you describe Cardiff’s arts scene?

that have all been for Welsh theatre or TV companies, and that’s been really timely for me. So many projects are filmed in Wales that aren’t set in Wales, so it was lovely to be back in Wales working on Welsh projects.

With a free Saturday, what would be your favourite places to ‘lose yourself’ in Cardiff when the venues open up again?

We’d welcome you back with open arms, Rakie!

Tenacious, determined and vibrant. I think despite the year that the arts have had, it will continue to be that and more of that.

I love theatre, but on a Saturday afternoon, I really love St Fagans National Museum. I have always loved it since I was a kid, and although it’s bigger and busier than it was than when I was growing up, it never fails to inspire and to fill me with incredible joy to be there. I just think it’s such a clever concept and I learn something new every time I go. Where in Cardiff did you grow up?

In Ely, and I lived on Moore Close my whole life until I was 18 and then I moved into Pontcanna to be close to the Royal Welsh College where I went to drama school. I went to Windsor Clive Primary School and Glan Ely High School, which then became Michaelston Community College but has in the last year been flattened to the ground. So from Ely, it was possible for us to walk across Plymouth Woods, across Ely river and go into St Fagans and we would play there. I don’t think a bunch of unattended children would get away with that now but back then we were somehow able to do it. Then we would go back through the river and up through the woods back to the top of Ely; that was one of our favourite things to do in the summer, and we would take the dogs with us – we were always told not to go in the river, but we always did and the dogs would come back wet and that was how our parents would know we’d broken the rules. Even though you’re a London-dweller now, do you still consider yourself a Cardiffian at heart?

I feel very much an Ely girl the older I get and I’ve been feeling very nostalgic recently. I feel that I’m more and more of a Cardiff girl as every year passes, weirdly, and it has been great to have worked there and worked in Wales with The Pact, Dat’s Love, Leonora Brito’s stories for National Theatre Wales, National Theatre Wales’ On Bear Ridge, as well as Iaith ar Daith, so in the last 18 months I’ve done four or five projects Rakie says her character in The Pact, detective superintendent Helen Holland, is beautifully written

My husband and I sometimes talk about living there but we’re just not quite brave enough to uproot, and also the kids love the schools that they’re in. He would very much like to live in Pontcanna though, he really loves it there. What are the biggest pleasures of working in or visiting Cardiff?

I tend to stay either in Ely with a school friend, who I’ve known since I was five, or in Pontcanna with a friend of mine who is a producer that I’ve known since 1992. When I was working on On Bear Ridge I just loved the fact I could cycle from Pontcanna across Bute Park, down the side of the drama school on the way to the Sherman Theatre and I would carry the bike over the railway line at Cathays. I loved that ride to work every morning, it was such a joy. I felt so incredibly nostalgic and I realised that when I lived in Cardiff full time, I didn’t appreciate it and I didn’t really take it all in, so it was lovely to do all of that a year and half ago and just enjoy it. Iaith ar Daith took me back to Ely and it was lovely to be there, even for a moment. I go back quite a lot but it had been a long time since I had been inside the Resurrection Church; that was quite a significant moment for me because that church was so huge in my life for about seven years when I was a child. What would you change about Cardiff if you owned it for a day?

I would stop all the new planning permission and I would consider refurbishing and regenerating in that way; I would do up old buildings rather than deciding to knock them all down. I would do a quick head count of how many beautiful old buildings are still standing and make it my mission to spruce them up. What do you think you would be doing if your acting career hadn’t worked out?

I don’t know because I didn’t have a second string to my bow. Before I became a professional actor, I pulled a very good pint when I was still at drama school and then for a few years after. Or maybe I’d work in a supermarket because I was very good on the till. I love indoor climbing but I don’t know if I would do something to do with that; I wouldn’t want to be an instructor. I also love fireworks so maybe I’d be a pyrotechnician, although I have no idea how a person becomes a pyrotechnician; I suppose you’d have to study chemistry or something! Also, I’d like to add that I was able to do the things I do because the South Glamorgan Education Authority – I don’t know if they have the same name today – paid for everything. They paid for me to join the National Youth Theatre of Wales for a residential course and every penny of that course was paid for by South Glam. And then when I got my place at drama school, South Glamorgan Education paid 100 per cent of the fees and 100 per cent of the subsistence because my dad didn’t have any money. I could not have done what I do without that incredible support. I’m so incredibly grateful that the local education authority helped me that way. Anything you’d like to add?

As patron of the Childhood Tumour Trust, I’d like to say that May is National Neurofibromatosis Month, and 17 May is Neurofibromatosis Day. I know that we have a lot of families based in Wales and Cardiff, so, although this is considered a rare disease, we do have members of the charity who might well see this, so it would be great to give a shout out to any families living with NF1. And if anyone knows of anyone, then we would love them to be directed to the Childhood Tumour Trust which is a charity supporting families and young people living with NF1, which also campaigns for better recognition, better diagnosis and better treatment for the genetic disorder. n The Pact starts on BBC One in mid-May and all episodes will be available on iPlayer; www.bbc.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 27

SPONSORED CONTENT

Why choose a Girls Only education for your daughter? At Cardiff’s HOWELL’S SCHOOL, Llandaff GDST, girls thrive in a girls-only environment where their voices are heard

ould your daughter thrive in an environment where she is free to be herself? A place where she is encouraged to believe that nothing is out of reach? Howell’s School, Llandaff GDST has been teaching Cardiff’s daughters to learn without limits for 160 years. GDST schools are at the forefront of gender equality, deliberately challenging gendered norms and purposefully building girls’ confidence, conviction and self-belief, making sure that girls have the skills to set and respect boundaries and have the confidence to make their voices heard. Every aspect of teaching and learning at Howell’s is tailored to girls, every program for wellbeing, leadership and learning caters to the needs of girls, developing their confidence as they mature into young adults in a culture free from gender bias, encouraged to believe that nothing is beyond consideration. Research currently shows that girls’ confidence starts to decline at the age of 8, and it only improves from the age of 80. Howell’s instills in girls the confidence they need for a successful future, and their teachers 28 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

delight in watching them grow to become more assertive and willing to ask questions, make mistakes and take risks. At Howell’s School, Llandaff GDST, girls thrive from age three in a single-sex environment where academic achievements are always celebrated, and these go hand-inhand with co-curricular activities that inspire and challenge them. From playing chess to performing in a rock band, debating current affairs to playing cricket, everyone at Howell’s believes that education doesn’t stop when the bell rings at the end of the school day.

“HOWELL’S INSTILLS IN GIRLS THE CONFIDENCE THEY NEED FOR A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE” The school’s founder, Thomas Howell, wanted to create greater opportunities for young women, and Howell’s School has been changing lives since it opened its doors in 1860. His generosity gave many young women access to an education that would

elevate and inspire them, and in 2021 Howell’s still creates opportunities for students from all backgrounds. The GDST Bursary Fund provides assistance to enable students whose parents could not otherwise afford the fees to enter the school in Year 7 and Year 12. Last summer, 60% of all GCSE grades were at A* or level 9-8, and 82% were at A*-A or level 9-7. Truly exceptional results in exceptional times. There are currently spaces available for entry in September 2021. To discover what makes Howell’s so special, contact Admissions Officer Chrissie Hall-Davis on 029 2056 2019 or visit www.howells-cardiff.gdst.net. ■

Cardiff Road, Cardiff, CF5 2YD; 029 2056 2019; mail@how.gdst.net; www.howells-cardiff.gdst.net

SPONSORED CONTENT

Employment Law Changes BERRY SMITH LAWYERS tell us about employment law changes in April 2021

pril 2021 is an important month in the employment law calendar, with a number of changes to the law being implemented. We have set out some of the changes below.

Sick pay, maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave On 4 April 2021, the statutory payments for sick leave, maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave increased as follows:

National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage On 1 April 2021 the National Living Wage, which has only ever applied to workers aged 25 and over, was extended to 23- and 24-year-olds for the first time. In addition, both the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage rates increased as follows:

Current rates (each week)

Rates from 4 April 2021

Statutory sick pay

£95.85

£96.35

Statutory maternity pay

£151.20

£151.97

Statutory paternity pay

£151.20

£151.97

Shared parental pay

£151.20

£151.97

National Living Wage

Current rates

Rates as of 1 April 2021

Age 23 or over

£8.72

£8.91

Age 21 to 22

£8.20

£8.36

Age 18 to 20

£6.45

£6.56

Age 16 to 17

£4.55

£4.62

Apprentice rate

£4.15

£4.30

SALE NOW ON

Furlough leave The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (or furlough scheme as most of us know it) has been extended until the end of September 2021. Those furloughed will continue to receive 80% of their wages, capped at £2,5000 a month, for hours not worked. From

July 2021, employers will be required to make a 10% contribution to furlough pay, increasing to a 20% contribution for August and September 2021. In addition, employers will continue to be liable for paying the National Insurance contributions and employer auto-enrolment pension contributions on employees’ furlough pay. Clinically extremely vulnerable individuals On 1 April 2021, the clinically extremely vulnerable were no longer advised to shield across England and Wales. Those who are clinically extremely vulnerable have been advised by the Government to continue to work from home where possible, however if they cannot work from home then they are advised to attend their workplace, provided their employers have taken steps to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace. ■

02920 345511; employment@berrysmith.com

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After THIS year of all years, it’s absolutely time for CARDIFF to CELEBRATE again

NOTHING BEATS BEING THERE… 30 SEPTEMBER 2021, CITY HALL

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WYBURN & WAYNE Move over Ant & Dec. Make way Edina & Patsy. Stand aside Batman & Robin. Our dynamic duo are in town and they’re here to give us the low down on the Cardiff high life

hings seem to be picking up, and that’s exciting isn’t it? We long for the days where it no longer feels necessary to start an email with mentioning “these trying times” and finishing with “stay safe”. On the topic of positivity, as mentioned in a previous column of ours, the response to our online call-out for essential toiletries has been phenomenal. We did a huge drop-off to University Hospital of Wales a few weeks ago and we recently received even more! So a second trip was needed; this time we packed them up into goodie bags for the patients on Wayne’s ward, for Easter just as a little pick-me-up, as family visits are still restricted at this current time. Continuing our fundraising for the NHS, and as very proud patrons for the Cardiff & Vale Health Charity, we are putting on a show! Yes, a full online evening of us, singing our favourites and some requests too... this will be online via our social media on 30 April. If you’re reading this after the event has passed, it’ll still be there so be sure to go and find it! We have a few special guests too,

including a collaboration for the big finale with the Kinetic School of performing arts. It’s not to be missed. We popped down to the new Bayside Mass Vaccination Centre (in the old Toys ‘R’ Us) for Nath to discuss a potential artwork there, and guess what? At the grand entrance you’ll now see his NHS Thank You collage hanging pride of place; be sure to grab a selfie with it when you get your call. The place is set up so well; we got to chat with Sonya, who’s in charge, about the incredible efficiency of the whole operation. Keep up the great work. Now, you may be aware of Nath’s creativity, but here’s a little bit of Wayne’s for you, in the shape of a poem he’s written (bottom right). Enjoy and... stay safe. About our columnists: Nathan Wyburn is a pop culture artist who uses non-traditional mediums such as Marmite, beans, soil and fake tan; and Wayne Courtney is a healthcare support worker at University Hospital of Wales. They are also Radio Cardiff DJs with their own show, and basically know everything and everyone in the city. Follow them on social: @ wyburnandwayne / @wyburnwayne

“We are putting on a show! Yes, a full online evening of us, singing our favourites”

Get ready for an Evening With...

W&W did a huge drop-off of goodie bags to patients on Wayne’s ward at the University Hospital of Wales

Rainbows, by Wayne Courtney In the blink of an eye the world turned black, Ground to a halt and under attack, We stayed in our homes, things didn’t feel real, But the Earth took deep breathes and started to heal, Our skies that were grey were suddenly blue, The rivers and oceans became clear too, Flowers grew wild and beaches stayed clean, Untouched mountains remained lush and green, We displayed in our windows colours of hope, There were acts of kindness all over the globe, The world kept turning and the sun still rose, The moon is still bright and the wind still blows, We searched for the rainbows, through darkness saw light, Inspired by kindness we began to unite, They speak of a ‘Normal’ of which to return, But we have to take stock, go forward and learn, Be better, be kinder, embrace what life throws, And fill our hearts with love and rainbows.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 31

SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER The array of preloved clothing, accessories and homeware at Lily Ann Vintage

TRUE VINTAGE

For Gen Z, vintage fashion is the new luxury, giving a sense of individuality and self-expression, all while helping to save the planet. ‘Fast fashion’ is a buzz phrase in the sustainability world, it’s focused on rapidly producing high volumes of clothing for ever-evolving trends; in other words, it’s throw-away fashion, not designed to last. Shirley Davies, the owner of Lily Ann Vintage inside Jacobs Antique Centre – a multi-storey market in Cardiff with many independent traders on each floor – says vintage clothes are having a resurgence, and people are welcoming the benefits, from being a sustainable way to shop, to finding better quality pieces for a bargain. Shirley has been trading at Jacobs Market for around eight years, selling vintage clothing and accessories. When her mother-in-law passed away, Shirley found a large amount of beautiful clothing dating back to the 40s and 50s in the attic, and she took that opportunity to start her own clothing business.

She says clothes carried a much higher sentimental value back in the day, due to them being so expensive and the fact that mass production wasn’t a thing. It’s almost too easy to buy and throw away our garments nowadays, and fast fashion is on the rise. You may also have come across someone wearing the same dress or top as you, but buying vintage is a statement to celebrate our uniqueness. Buying pre-loved items helps protect the planet, and, add to that, the pieces are often sturdier and built to last, and the majority of vintage sellers are independents, so you can support a small business and grab a quality outfit for less. As the saying goes, fashion fades, style is eternal. Lily Ann Vintage, on the second floor of Jacobs Antique Centre, West Canal Wharf, Cardiff, is open Thursday – Saturday; www.facebook.com/LilyAnnVintage With thanks to Cardiff-based photographer and blogger Sin Mei Lam; www.cardifflocal.co; @cardifflocal www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 33

PEBBLE CUSHION, £54.99 As soft as it is intriguing. From Hamptons, Ludlow Lane, Penarth; www. hamptonspenarth.co.uk

ALL THE ZEST

PLASTIC-FREE BOWL COVERS, £18 FOR SET OF 3 Forget cling ﬁlm and Tupperware, these stretchy bowl covers are your new reusable, environmentally friendly saviours. From Tabitha Eve, Pontypridd; www.tabithaeve.co.uk

HIGH WAIST AZTEC SKIRT, £18 You’ll generally only ﬁnd one of everything at Fussy – a vintage clothing and homeware shop – this skirt is from the 80s and is a size medium. From Fussy, Goodsheds, Barry; www.fussyhome.com

Ripe and juicy, burnt and bold, orange is a summer 2021 staple shade. Here are some of our favourite items in the hot, energetic hue, all from local shops

LEOPARD BOTANICAL MISTER, £12 A ﬁercely hydrating companion to your houseplant collection, keeping leaves healthy and misty-moist. From Ty Deco, Church Village; www.tydeco.co.uk

ORANGE MINI PAMPAS, 5 STEMS FOR £15 Fluﬀy pampas and dried arrangements are still having their day in the limelight. From Mason Blooms, Canton; www.masonblooms.com

34 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

GINKGO LEAF RESIN CLUTCH BAG, £58 Find a blossoming bevy of handmade botanical resin jewellery and accessories at Ameow. From Ameow Designs, Roath; www.ameow.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE POP COLOUR TILES, £67 PER SQUARE METRE Transform your bathroom into a sunny haven with these cheerful tiles. From The Tap End, Pontyclun; www. thetapend.design

CROSSBODY BAG, £18.95 A lovely little daytime bag complete with laser-cut daisy applique detail. From Zia Boutique, Mermaid Quay; www.ziaBoutique.co.uk

ST. EVAL DINNER CANDLES, SIX FOR £8.50 Bring a ﬂash of colour to your dining table with these 10-hour burn terracotta candles. From Sadler Jones, Barry; www.sadlerjones.com

FABRIC STATEMENT EARRINGS, £22 These handmade geo dangle earrings were made with fabric found in a bustling market in Delhi. From Matico, Whitchurch; www.MaticoStudio.etsy.com

LE CREUSET SALT AND PEPPER MILLS, £27.50 EACH Shake it up a bit with these bright ombre mills. From Leekes, Llantrisant; www.leekes.co.uk

ESSENTIAL ANTWERP ZINCHILLA DRESS, £225 A spicy, loose, ﬂowing maxi with a bohemian edge. Summer style, here we come. From Kiti, Pontcanna; www.kiticymru.com

CALLY CHAIR, £490 A burnt orange sumptuous velvet delight. From Athena Interiors, Cwmbran; www.athenainteriors.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 35

Partners Gareth and Ryan run one of the prettiest businesses in Cardiff: LetThemSeeCake

FAMILY FORTUNES Getting the kids involved, annoying each other, and bedtime work meetings: local families reflect on what it’s like to be in business together By Lisa Evans

36 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

FAMILY BUSINESS

“We love coming up with the big ideas“xxxxx” together”

Xxxxx Husband and wife Steve and Marina co-founded Bengo Media, which they named after a childhood dog

owever much we love them, being in business with our loved ones – be that a significant other, a parent or a sibling – would be a step too far for some people. But here to prove that it can be done, and done well, are seven local families.

LETTHEMSEECAKE

Partners Gareth Owen Davies and Ryan Alexander Rowe run LetThemSeeCake, where you’ll find celebration cakes, takeaway treats, dried flowers, cards and gifts.

Take us back to the beginning… Ryan: Gareth started on his own initially in 2017; we took over a new

space in the summer of 2020 forming a company and the shop opened in October. When Gareth was self employed, I would help in the evening and weekends. Once the company was formed, I joined him full time. How would you describe your working relationship? Gareth: Day to day, I think we’re a good combo; he comes up with

a plethora of ideas and is very creative. I would describe myself as a bit more methodical and risk averse so we feel we’re a good team for business! We take calculated risks and do it with style.

What have you both taught each other? Ryan: I’ve learnt to take more risks from Gareth and that there’s no

substitute for hard work. Gareth: I have learnt that Rome wasn’t built in a day and sometimes it’s best to take a step back and re-evaluate before pressing forward. Cowbridge Road East; www.letthemseecake.com

BENGO MEDIA

Husband and wife Steve Austins and Marina Lois co-founded Bengo Media, a boutique audio production company specialising in branded podcasts, radio programmes and the occasional audiobook.

How and when did you start working together? Marina: After 19 amazing years at the Beeb, Steve decided he wanted

to try something new before he became pensionable, so that prompted us to create a business that would put our collective talents to good use. We started the business in 2017.

What’s it like working together? Steve: We love coming up with the big ideas together but then we

absolutely have to divvy the execution of them up so that we can work on the bits that we’re good at otherwise we end up annoyed at each other. Benefits of a family-run business? Marina: There are so many. Building a company we enjoy working in,

spending time together and actually being able to work around family commitments and lifestyle without guilt.

What have you both taught each other? Steve: After a lifetime in public service, I had to learn the art of

budgeting for a commercial marketplace from Marina. We’ve taught each other that things run smoother when we play to our strengths and that we have different ways of communicating.

Surprise us… Marina: Bengo was the name of Steve’s dog when he was a kid. We kept

on coming back to it, so we decided to go with it. Grangetown; www.bengomedia.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 37

FAMILY BUSINESS

Tommy and his partner Nikki run Heaneys restaurant, with Tommy’s daughter, Lucy-Jo, helping out part time

HEANEYS

playlist you haven’t even got any tills, or a credit card machine!’ Nikki: It’s very hard work and can sometimes have a massive strain on us as a couple; any normal family life is completely non-existent! I love that we can get the children involved though. Pontcanna; www.heaneyscardiff.co.uk

Describe Heaneys in three words

Married couple Catherine and Howard Smith own Gellihaf House B&B – a ‘home from home’ period house in the valleys.

Chef Tommy Heaney runs Heaneys restaurant in Pontcanna, and his partner Nikki Curnock is the manager. Tommy’s daughter, Lucy-Jo, works at the restaurant part time, and his young son Jamie helps Tommy to create and taste-test new recipes at home. The family also runs Uisce, an oyster and wine bar situated next door to the restaurant. Relaxed, fun and exciting.

When did the business start? Nikki: We officially opened the doors to Heaneys

in 2019. To keep us busy and spread word of our new venture, we opened a little pop-up right next door (this is now Uisce). It was honestly one of the best experiences and an exciting start to our new venture together.

Take us back to the start… Catherine: The business started in 2018. We’re

“Nobody can prepare you enough for the challenges ”

Do you complement each other well? Tommy: Our backgrounds are very different, I travelled a lot and never

really stuck in the same job for a long period of time, whereas Nikki made her way up through the ranks with the same company. Nikki: We both always had the same dreams from a young age: to have our own place. My background before meeting Tommy was always within the hospitality industry but more pub focused. Tell us about the toughest bits of working together… Tommy: Nobody can prepare you enough for the challenges that

come with opening a restaurant; I can cook, and Nikki can run a bar but there is so much more to it. I remember waking up in the night panicking that I didn’t have a playlist ready, then I thought ‘forget the

38 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

GELLIHAF HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST

both on our second marriages and we have seven children between us; we lived in Cardiff and we each had a house, so we thought that we might look for something a little larger but didn’t quite bank on buying Gellihaf House. We saw the house, which was being run as a B&B, and thought, ‘let’s have a go at that! May as well give it a try.’

What was it like going into business together? Howard: We learnt to compromise well with each other. Getting GH

to the standard it is now has been an enormous challenge, both mentally and financially. But, whenever one of us would feel a little beaten by it all, the other would pick them up. We share a common vision and remind each other of it regularly. What’s it like living and working under the same roof? Catherine: We live in a spectacular house with beautiful gardens,

and when we finish work, we can just roll straight into bed. It’s pretty great really.

Jeff and his daughter Chloe run Big Moose alongside their other family members

BIGMOOSE

Former Cardiff Devils star Jeff Smith launched bigmoose – a charity and non-profit coffee shop – as a legacy for his ice hockey friend ‘Moose’ who passed away while still young. The venture became a family affair. Jeff’s daughter Chloe tells us more… Tell us a little about bigmoose…

xxxxxx

The idea began in 2014 as a legacy for my dad’s best friend who we lost to cancer at aged 42.

His name was Gary Cloonan, but he was nicknamed ‘Moose’ as he was a big, tall guy. When Moose died, Dad vowed to live his life to the absolute fullest. Dad started bigmoose as a way of helping people to live happier, healthier and kinder lives. Tell us about your charitable work…

We have worked with the homeless community of Cardiff, as well as with children with disabilities and their parents, and we do a lot of work with mental

health. In 2018 we became a registered charity with our threepoint plan of working with: 1. homelessness 2. mental health 3. prevention of suicide. bigmoose coffee co is a non-profit coffee shop and is the trading entity off of the charity. We work to employ, train and mentor people who’ve experienced homelessness and those who struggle with their mental health. We provide training, counselling, support and aim to give people hope. We pay the real living wage and ensure we focus on sustainability as much

as possible.

Who’s involved?

My dad, me, my mum and sister are all involved. Surprise us…

Dad and I climbed Kilimanjaro together in 2010 when I was 15 and I became the youngest Welsh woman to summit. My dad then went on to summit mount Everest in 2017. Frederick Street, Cardiff; www.bigmoose.co; www.bigmoosecoffeecompany.co

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 39

Couple Catherine and Howard own Gellihaf House B &B in the Welsh valleys

Surprise us… Howard: Six months after we moved into GH, Cath’s dad discovered

that the old house belonged to her great great uncle William Ebsworth.

Catherine: Howard is an Olympian!

Rhymney Valley; www.gellihafhouse.co.uk

YUME

Married couple Giovanna and Tristan McCarthy own and run Yume Hair & Beauty Salons Sum Yume up in a nutshell… Giovanna: It’s a hair and beauty business

which is known for its ‘Yume Journey’: from the moment you step into our salons you are treated with celebrity service, offered a refreshments menu, high standards of hair and beauty skills, with the best products, all in a friendly, relaxed, happy atmosphere! Yume is the Japanese word for dream after all.

our social media pages; also, being a similar age as some of our staff, they have fab ideas for staff incentives too.

“Sometimes we go to bed having a work conversation, fall asleep, and then carry on as soon as we wake up”

When did the business start? Tristan: In 2006, just after our second daughter was born. Giovanna,

with a wealth of hairdressing experience opened the first salon in the city centre and then together we opened the second location Llanishen in 2015. With a slight tweak to the Yume branding along with my experience in the fashion/retail business, together we worked on the growth and expansion of the business, which lead to a third salon at the Cardiff Student Union. Describe your working relationship… Giovanna: The best bit is that no day is a work day, as we love what we

do. The most challenging aspect is cutting down the hours we put into the business, often way over the average 40 hours! The biggest benefit to a family-run business is being the decision makers and making the dreams become reality.

40 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Do your daughters get involved? Tristan: They often influence hair and makeup ideas, sometimes for

What do you most admire about each other? Tristan: Giovanna has a great business brain

and is driven on getting the best results. Giovanna: Tristan is very much a peopleperson. I admire him for his laid-back approach to life, but with an ability in business to run a tight-ship. We’ve both learnt to work hard and play hard. Surprise us…

We met 27 years ago when we both worked in Castle Arcade, I was 20 and Tristan was 22; we were engaged after three months. Llanishen and Cathays; www.yumecardiff.co.uk

HAMPTONS

Husbands Andy Bradshaw and Peter Knowles own home interior shops Hamptons, Shore, and West Hampton.

Tell us about the three businesses you own… Peter: Hamptons in Penarth town centre is a haven of design-led home

interiors, gifts and greetings cards together with an artisan food hall. It’s also the home of the Hamptons Interior Design consultancy. Shore on Penarth Seafront is a celebration of coastal living, and West Hampton in Cowbridge offers products for the home, inspired by life in the countryside. We launched the main Hamptons store in 2005 and have been working together ever since. How would you describe your working relationship? Andy: It’s a great partnership based on trust, respect and valuing our

FAMILY BUSINESS

Couple Giovanna and Tristan own and run Yume Hair & Beauty Salons and are helped out by their daughters

respective strengths and weaknesses. We completely enjoy each other’s company so spending all day together is a real bonus. Sometimes we go to bed having a conversation about something work related, fall asleep and then carry on the conversation as soon as we wake up! Biggest benefits of a family-run business? Peter: As a family, you share the same values and work ethos and have

a joint commitment to success. You have freedom and independence and the ability to make and act on decisions quickly. It’s also a hugely supportive way of working, and the rewards of hard work are for the benefit of the family. And our dog Max gets to come to work each day too, which is ideal. What do you most respect about each other? Peter: Andy is probably the most positive, creative and enthusiastic

person I’ve ever met; he’s a total ‘let’s do it’ person and this has led to some of our most exciting adventures. Andy: Peter is really practical, methodical and well organised which is great for me as I’m none of these things, and he unquestioningly indulges my creative fantasies! Surprise us... Andy: Peter is the master of surprises. His best – which has yet to be

Husbands Andy and Peter, who run Hamptons with the help of their dog Max, say working together is full of surprises

surpassed – was our wedding, which took place at sunset on a beach in Florida. He planned the whole event without telling me; managed to keep it all secret and simply proposed to me on the morning of the wedding. Penarth and Cowbridge; www.hamptonspenarth.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 41

FOOD & DRINK SNAPSHOTS OF CARDIFF’S FOOD SCENE

TASTY BITES

A handful of juicy food news morsels for you to chew on

Nook By The River will serve small plates and natural wine next to the water Graig Coffi is warming up cold walkers

ROLLING ON THE RIVER

One of Cardiff’s most popular restaurants will operate an outdoor pop-up on the banks of the River Taff this spring. Victoria Park’s Nook – a cosy small-plates restaurant – will move into a 12 x 10m stretch tent situated alongside Llandaff Rowing Club, and will be named Nook By The River. “It’s been an incredibly tough year for everyone in hospitality,” says Nook co-founder Phill Lewis, who also operates four Dusty’s Pizza restaurants across Cardiff and Barry. “None of us expected this to go on for so long or thought that we would have to find so many ways to adapt. When we opened Nook, never did I think that it would operate as a takeaway! That being said, we are really excited to be working with Llandaff Rowing Club to bring this pop-up to life; the location is not just about working within the restrictions, it’s also the perfect setting for the style of food we love to serve at Nook.” Nook by The River pop-up will open on 29 April. www.nookcardiff.co.uk

A BREW WITH A VIEW After a long uphill walk, enjoying a freshly poured coffee while you look out over the immaculate view is a little slice of bliss. The good news for you outdoorsy types is that coffee stand Graig Coffi has opened at the top of the Graig mountain, Lisvane. “I live on a farm at the bottom of the Graig mountain,” says Ellie Llewellyn, who came up with the idea for the business, “and, during the lockdown I realised how many walkers enjoyed the views and I decided to start selling coffees at the top to provide warm beverages for some very cold people. “I started in mid-January with the help of my auntie Imogen and my uncle Leo. “We started selling hot chocolates and coffees from a small table; and now we have a bar made from wooden pallets. This week we had our first local baker stocking our stand; the bakers will rotate each week meaning there will be different bakes each time you visit. We also stock locally roasted coffee, we have just closed a deal to stock stylish dog accessories, and we have made a number of gift hampers, our most recent being an Easter hamper which we made from local Welsh produce.” @graigcoffi; open Sundays 10:30am-2:30pm

42 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The global event is being held at the Celtic Manor Resort

YES, CHEF!

Wales will welcome the world’s best chefs this year at the prestigious Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge. The Culinary Association of Wales (CAW) and its partners, the International Convention Centre Wales (ICC Wales), the Celtic Manor Resort and the Welsh Government, have accepted an invitation to bring the event to Newport from October 23 – 26. The only major Worldchefs competition in 2021, the event will bring together top chefs to compete in the finals of three categories: the Global Chefs Challenge, the Global Pastry Chefs Challenge and the Global Young Chefs Challenge. The Global Chefs Challenge and Worldchefs Village will be combined at the Celtic Manor Resort where the organisers hope to provide a platform for Welsh food and drink business to showcase their products to chefs from around the world. www.globalchefschallenge.org

FOOD & DRINK

SOCIAL EATS The newly opened Social Eats in Cathays may just be the healthiest eatery in the city

MEANT TO BEAN

Social Eats are crazy about coffee • They offer speciality coffees, such as beetroot and turmeric lattes, and their brew of choice is Clifton Coffee. • Their La Marzocco machine is the latest model out and they believe they are the only business in Wales to have this. • They will also soon offer barista classes.

Having opened in the middle of March, Social Eats is bringing health-focused foodies exactly what they want – from sirloin steak buddha bowls, and blueberry protein pancakes, to plant milk overnight oats topped with more fruit that you can believe, and beetroot and goats’ curd benedict. It’s owned by Laura Archbold and Michael Robbins (pictured left) who had a particular vision for Social Eats… “Laura, whose other business is Trifle Procurement Service, has spent lots of time in coffee shops and is a foodie, and she realised there’s nowhere in Cardiff that offers smoothie bowls or buddha bowls,” says Michael. “And I own a gym (Pro Fitness, Penarth) so we were keen to offer healthy alternatives to customers, such as wholesome breakfasts and sandwiches.” They do offer treats too, of course (who doesn’t love a Biscoff blondie with their flat white every now and then), but good-for-you grub is their mainstay, with a variety of vegan, nut-free and gluten-free options on the menu too, covering all dietary requirements. They are also dog-friendly, or ‘dog mad’ as Laura puts it, and furry friends are always welcome. They are also currently developing the back of the building into a seating area that will lead onto the garden, with fairy lights and heaters, and when the time comes, they will be offering alcohol and cocktails as well as wine-tasting and cocktail-making classes. 20 Salisbury Road, Cathays, Cardiff; @social_eats_cardiff

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 43

Reach the best in the west

CHRONOMAT

Affluent, active and influential and just a call away

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CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS

OFFICIAL AWARDS REVIEW

CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS 2020 CARDIFF… KEEP ON BUILDING The second Cardiﬀ Property Awards were wholly virtual and highly successful. Here’s our review of a singular event engaged with by hundreds…

t was the anticipation that first hit you. Around midday on Friday 26 March, hundreds of Cardiff’s finest and hugely proactive property people descended into the innovative Virtual Symposium to network and engage and discuss – all aided by the wondrous new-found use of Zoom rooms and socially distanced tech. Who’d have thought back during the last event that the tribe would return in these circumstances? But they did. And in great numbers. When so many contribute, so many benefit. And when so many come together in one place to celebrate excellence, then good things can happen. Awards were won, of course. Wonderful ones. Aaannnddd… intros happened, acquaintances made, new contacts built, deals discussed, partnerships sounded out. In short, business as usual happened. It was thrilling to see the array of participants, from the coolest of the city’s indies to the largest of the sector’s corporates; from local to regional to national and even international. The sector was celebrated, venerated. This was the chance to say that

Cardiﬀ property matters: commercially, practically, aesthetically. On the following pages you’ll see our winners of course, carefully chosen after protracted debate by our independent judges drawn from all aspects of the property scene. You’ll see our sponsors, without whom none of this would have been possible: thank you. Special thanks to Jennet Siebrits, head of UK research of CBRE and Lawrence Bowles, director at Savills Research, who provided such a sterling start to the Symposium with inspiring keynote talks on residential property trends and insights into rising property growth in the city. Thanks also to Amy Thomas of Taylor Wimpey, emphatically introducing the Awards and explaining the judging experience and process, and our host, BBC presenter and journalist Laura Rawlings, skilfully engaging sponsors and winners alike. You’ll see all our ﬁnalists too. Worthy contenders all. So next time..? It’ll be a Friday again, on 26 November, this time back in real life at the Coal Exchange Hotel. Join us for the splendid hubbub of business, and singular veneration of this incredible sector…

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 45

CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS

THE FINALISTS ARCHITECT Sponsored by Willmott Dixon Atkins HLM Architects IBI Group Pentan Architects Powell Dobson Architects CIVIC DEVELOPMENT Grange Pavilion by IBI Group Llys Cadwyn by Willmott Dixon Maelfa Tower by Atkins COMMERCIAL AGENT Cooke & Arkwright Haus Knight Frank CONSULTANCY Curtins Consulting Grasshopper Communications Hydrock Knight Frank Morgan Structural Rhomco Consulting Vale Consultancy

CONTRACTOR Sponsored by Marsh Commercial Trojan Group Willmott Dixon

INTERIOR DESIGNER Di Oro Interiors Haus The Tap End LEGAL Sponsored by TSR Legal Recruitment Acuity Law Darwin Gray Greenaway Scott

DEVELOPER Haus Project 3 Developments Redrow Homes EMPLOYER Atkins Cooke & Arkwright Grasshopper Communications HLM Architects Hodge Bank Hydrock Pentan Architects Redrow Homes Willmott Dixon

PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT Sponsored by Specialist Security Project 3 Developments Rhomco Consulting Willmott Dixon

SUPPLIERS AND SERVICES Antea Photography Grasshopper Communications Pure Property Finance Specialist Security Co Trojan Group TRANSFORMATION Sponsored by Sanctuary Financial Planning Goodsheds by Darwin Gray Grange Pavilion by IBI Group Llys Cadwyn by Willmott Dixon Maelfa Tower Regeneration by Atkins The Moorwell by Project 3 Developments

RESIDENTIAL AGENT Harry Harper Sales & Lettings Haus Savills

FINANCIAL Hodge Bank Marsh Commercial Principality Commercial Pure Property Finance Sanctuary Financial Planning

THE CARDIFF PROPERTY AWARDS JUDGES AMY THOMAS Senior land manager, Taylor Wimpey

CLARE JONES Founding director, Grasshopper Communications

KATHRYN ROBERTS Senior partner, Eversheds Sutherland

48 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

NATHAN HARRINGTON Brand manager, Hodge

ELINOR WEEKLEY Director, Royal Society of Architects In Wales RICHARD BAKER Deputy director, Land Division, Welsh Government

HENRY BROOK Sales director, Original Style

THE FUTURE IS UNWRITTEN

THINK. AGAIN. The Conference for Entrepreneurs from MediaClash is coming… July 1 2021 CONTENT: claudia.butler@mediaclash.co.uk

COMMERCIAL: annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk

CONCEPT: greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk SITE: EntreConf.com

STRUCTURA 405 · XL kitchen sits on 100mm plinth gaining an extra 10% storage, compared with more traditional kitchens that have 150mm plinth · Sierra oak fronts · Laminate worktops with matching niche cladding (upstands)

RESIDENCE

O ER THE OV RAINBOW O OW Rhiannon Lewis’s rainbow cottage in Splott brought smiles to many a face during lockdown. Here she tells us about her joyfilled home and its almighty renovation By Lisa Evans

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RESIDENCE

n the middle of a row of terraced worker cottages, built for the incoming sea merchants and dock workers of the mid 1850s, sits a two-bed home filled with colour and joy. You can’t miss it, it’s the one with the giant rainbow painted on the front. Families across Wales were placing rainbow drawings in their windows to thank key workers on the frontline, but Rhiannon decided a bigger gesture was needed, not only to support the NHS but to bring happiness to passers-by on their daily walks. The eight-foot rainbow has only been one small part of the house’s multicolour makeover, which Rhiannon, who lives alone, has been – and is still – working on for the past two years. Here she tells us about the revamp, her favourite bits, and the immense challenges she’s had to overcome.

We can’t start this interview in any other way… tell us about the rainbow!

The huge rainbow on the front of the house is something that didn’t intentionally happen. When lockdown happened, I realised that I’m not very good at having nothing to do. Everyone was painting rainbows to put up in their windows to show their support for the NHS, but I didn’t feel a small picture was enough. I had a few sample paint pots that had never been used, and, since the front of the house needed repainting, I thought why not show my support by adding the rainbow. It took two days to complete; I drew the first arch with some string which I

“To know that my rainbow has made just one person smile during lockdown means everything to me”

below: The kitchen is

surprisingly neutral; right: The gold leaf under the stairs was a DIY job after a YouTube tutorial

stood on and a pencil at the other end. I used a kitchen knife to evenly space out the arches. My neighbour, Lindy, helped me paint it. I really wanted to get it done in one day; we ended up painting by car headlights before realising that it wasn’t practical. How on earth Banksy gets his done in the middle of the night I have no clue! Fortunately, all of my neighbours love the rainbow and have been very supportive. It has been there a whole year now and I still get visitors on their daily walks taking pictures. It’s safe to say that the rainbow is going to stay for a little while longer. You’ve given Cardiff Cottage a complete makeover inside too, what was your vision? And why did you decide to take on such a project?

I bought the house in December, 2016; it was the cutest little Christmas present ever. I never intended for the house to be a complete renovation; I knew it needed a little bit of work as it had been on the rental market for a number of years, but my intention was to do a quick paint, put in a new bathroom and kitchen and get moved in as soon as possible. However, on the first day stripping out the house we realised that the ceilings were bowed in every room. We also found a leak in the flat roof over the kitchen and bathroom. After having a little cry, I realised that it wasn’t such a bad thing to have to completely renovate. It would mean that I would get to move into a house that was newly finished and sparkling clean – well that was the dream. The project ended up taking nearly two years as I wanted to try and do most of the work myself. When I say ‘myself ’, what I really mean is I conned my retired dad into helping. He used to be an electrical engineer so was very handy.

52 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

clockwise: The living room reflects the creative side of Rhiannon’s personality, with its large gallery wall; neutral touches in the master bedroom; There are rainbows everywhere you look

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RESIDENCE

How did you know what to do/ where to start with the renovation?

This wasn’t my first renovation; I had already done one house. I started ripping out all of the cupboards, then all of the carpets and flooring, then the ceilings. On day two, I could stand in my living room and see all the way up to the roof tiles in the attic. At that point I did think ‘what have I done?’. I know now that demolition is way easier than the re-build!

above: The large rainfall shower replaced the bathtub; right: comfort and joy in the lounge

How would you describe the look of the house now?

At the start of the renovation, I wanted to try and return the house to a Victorian-style cottage. The house now couldn’t be more different to what I had in mind. I very quickly realised that these worker cottages would have been ‘no frills’. There were no remaining features of the original house, quite simply because there were not any in the first place. It meant that I could style it how I wanted. You will see a nod to the original era throughout the house in the lighting and fireplaces though. Could you take us through room by room, and briefly let us know what you did to the house?

The hallway is probably the most ‘Victorian’ styled part of the house; I chose Victorian-style patterned tiles and a very traditional lantern light. The living room was originally two separate rooms; we knocked out the 80s gas fire in the second chimney and kept going until we found the original fireplace opening, and I had a log fire installed.

54 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“Wherever you sit or look there is something to entertain the eye”

The kitchen and bathroom are a flat roof extension added onto the house in the late 60s. The kitchen had a fabulous shiplap ceiling which was very sticky; when we removed it, we realised that there had been a leak for some time. This meant that I needed a new roof on the whole extension. Again I saw this as a positive and decided that I would install the largest possible lantern in the kitchen I could, which definitely made the flat roof a lot cheaper. In the bathroom, I removed the bath as there wasn’t really enough space for it, and I installed a large rainfall shower across the window, making space for a nice large sink. I went for a very traditional Victorian, white, subway tile. Upstairs, there are two small bedrooms. At one stage during the renovation, it was one large room as the original brick wall practically fell down itself when my dad removed the skirting boards – oops! Thank goodness the builders were still on site removing the chimney breast, so they built a new one for us. In the front bedroom, now my room, I was able to install wardrobes along the wall that would have originally housed the fireplace. I knew that I wanted to keep this room as calm as possible so chose muted natural colours. The second bedroom has yet to be decorated, but it will definitely be very colourful; it already has a polka dot wardrobe. Outside, I have a very small yard space, now known as my yarden. This by far is the most rewarding project I have completed as I had to do most of it on my own, including the fence, storage cupboard and tiles.

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RESIDENCE What’s your favourite part inside?

I love the living room; it reflects the creative side of my personality with its large gallery wall, the stag’s head with pink frame, the large orange chair and the gold leaf under the stairs. Wherever you sit or look there is something to entertain the eye. By the side of the fireplace is a cute little arch; when we stripped back the walls, the arched bricks were holding up a lot of beach pebbles. I was determined that this was to stay and so the pebbles above had to be replaced with bricks. The hearth that the fire is sat on is actually the bricks from the wall that fell down between the bedrooms upstairs and the mantel is a section of the timber support beam that had to be replaced with steel in the living room. What were the biggest challenges?

The constant setbacks were tough. It started with a bowed ceiling and very quickly escalated to new roofs, a complete electric re-wire, new supports, fallen walls and even a new steel structure into the roof. They were costs that I hadn’t taken into consideration for my quick revamp.

“People make a point of walking past every day because it makes them happy”

What’s the nicest thing anyone has said about your home?

That they make a point of walking past every day because it makes them happy. To know that my rainbow has made just one person smile during lockdown means everything to me. Follow Rhiannon on Instagram: @cardiffcottage

What local businesses/shops did you visit for your eclectic décor?

I love supporting small businesses, mostly because they don’t have to follow the mass market trends and they can be specialists in their own little areas. I love a company called Annie & Lolo who are based in the Goodsheds in Barry, I bought my ‘Cwtch’ artwork from them, by a local artist called Bald Head Designs. I also have a few of their plant pots and quirky trinkets around the house.

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Plants are another of my loves, I have bought from Blasus Succulent Emporium based at the Bone Yard in Canton; and I have recently found a small Cardiff-based company called The little Green Corner on Instagram – Bethan, the owner, used to be a teacher and gave it up to set up her plant-obsessed business during lockdown. You can order on her site and she will deliver directly to your door. Another local company I adore is Beti Biggs in Pontcanna. The owner, Jan, knows everything there is to know about upcycling furniture; I bought my Annie Sloan paint from her to paint the chest of draws in my bedroom. All of the carpets were from a small business on Risca high street called Dean Riley Carpets; my tiles were from Direct Tile Warehouse on Hadfield Road as well as Taylors Etc based in the Mumbles; and the gold leaf in my living room was from Amazon – I had a quick YouTube lesson before deciding that I could do it myself, I’m still finding gold glitter everywhere! And the kitchen was from Wren, we fitted it ourselves.

Can’t really miss it, can you?

Got an amazing local home? Want it to feature in Residence? Contact lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk

clockwise: The living/dining space was previously two rooms; a rainbow rose made it into the bouquet, of course; a little bit of Frida; the ‘yarden’; the guest bedroom complete with polka dot wardrobe; a rainbow gnome and flowers are the perfect accents

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It’s the city’s business

CARDIFFWORKS Breitling has landed in St David’s

Breit side of life

Swiss luxury watchmakers Breitling have launched a loft concept boutique in Cardiff’s St David’s Centre

heir newest space, which opened on 14 April, is a contemporary, urban interpretation of an industrial loft. Breitling’s signature cool and informal aesthetic is in bold contrast to classical luxury retail brand environments. And in tribute to the brand’s dynamic new home, a view of Cardiff city, including the iconic image of the Welsh Assembly and Cardiff Bay, are visible through an industrial loft window. “Alongside our long-standing partner the Watches of Switzerland Group, we are thrilled to open the doors to the new Boutique in Cardiff, where we will showcase the complete spirit of the Breitling brand,” says Gavin Murphy, Breitling UK managing director. “Cardiff represents a significant

58 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

cornerstone for our continued expansion throughout the UK. The boutique will house the full width of Breitling’s product offering, creating a stylish and immersive shopping experience that perfectly reflects Breitling’s everyday luxury approach.” The vintage, mid-century accents in the interior are a nod to the time when Breitling timepieces and measuring tools earned the brand its reputation for the world’s greatest chronographs. Since 1884, Breitling has established itself a global reputation for high-precision timepieces, and its pioneering role in the development of the wrist chronograph. Hey, if it’s good enough for our cover star Brad Pitt… www.breitling.com

Betty Elms Illustration, founded by Becky Ellis (below) promotes untold representations of women. Pictured right are pieces from Hitchcock’s Heroines series

I’M EVERY WOMAN Betty Elms Illustration, a new Cardiff-based company, aims to promote the creation of positive female representations through image making, using the medium of illustration to illuminate female histories, forgotten stories and untold legacies. “My work presents narratives and images that often have a female mode of address, aiming to challenge the disparity of multi-dimensional female characters, with a view to raising the aspirations of female audiences,” says founder Becky Ellis. “I wish to promote new and untold representations of women and through educational projects and workshops, raise awareness of these issues in a creative and fun way.” www.bettyelms.co.uk

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

Garden offices are the new black

For many of us, working from home has been the norm for the past year, and the way we think about our home-work spaces has changed. The kitchen table or desk crammed in next to the bed in the spare room were fine when working in pyjamas was a novelty, but now we need solutions for the long haul, in terms of boosting both productivity and the way we feel about our homes. Enter, new business Oakley Garden Room, which opened its doors last month in Cowbridge and is aiming to make the commute to the garden a reality with their bespoke garden rooms manufactured and built in South Wales. “With an increasing demand for additional living and working space at home, there is now an opportunity to design and build a quality and cost-effective solutions,” says Adam Oakley, director. “Garden rooms are versatile and stylish spaces to provide comfort and function right at home; cheaper and less disruptive than an extension to your property, and the buildings are designed to fall within permitted development, meaning you don’t need to obtain planning permission. The whole process from order to completion can be as little as three weeks.” www.oakleygardenroom.com

SHINY AND NEW In our most recent virtual Cardiff Life Business Club, which we held live on Zoom on 13 April, we ran a New Businesses Special, focusing on Cardiff’s freshest start-ups. Our guest speakers were Ed Choo at Indie Eats, Cardiff’s answer to Deliveroo; Simon Baston on behalf of Goodsheds, the first new sustainable urban high street in the UK; and Donald Gray of law firm Darwin Gray, who all provided great stories and big reopening insights. Tune into our next business club – an Events Special – on 24 May. @cardifflifemag on Instagram (link in bio)

PROTECT AND SWERVE

A Cardiff-based company that has been manufacturing PPE for 163 years has seen a hugely positive economic upturn this year, which has allowed them to help save lives globally. BCB International – which provides innovative protective, medical and survival equipment to the defence, outdoor and marine markets – in Lamby Industrial Park, has been operating throughout the pandemic, providing lifesaving equipment for those on the front lines. BCB’s motto is ‘protecting the protectors’ and when Covid struck in 2020, they swerved the business by converting some of their machinery into making hand sanitiser, which is currently supplied to the Welsh NHS, along with vital PPE and survival equipment throughout the world. “We sure now know how to expect the unexpected,” says Andy Howell, managing director of BCB International and High Sheriff of South Glamorgan. “Thankfully, we changed our business early; and now the spring of hope is with us, we need to keep adapting, The Cardiff-based PPE company hopefully quicker than this insidious virus does.” has been saving lives globally www.bcbin.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 59

CARDIFFWORKS

CAUSE FOR THOUGHT

A Cerebral Palsy Cymru therapist putting smiles on faces

BUNCH OF FIVES

Cardiﬀ chef and BBC’s Great British Menu star Tommy Heaney cooked up a storm to support local charity Cerebral Palsy Cymru. On 16 April, the head chef at Heaneys in Pontcanna hosted an exclusive virtual cooking event, Friday Night Kitchen with Tommy Heaney, to raise money for children and families living with cerebral palsy in Wales. Head over to the website (below) to see the total amount that was raised. www.cerebralpalsycymru.org

FOND FAREWELL

THAT’S RICH

SING IT

BUSINESS CLUB

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC The Bodlon café and gift shops in Cardiﬀ have moved on from the capital city. Their next project will be in Carmarthen which will involve the continuation of the Bodlon brand but in a smaller niche way. Owner Nia Evans started Bodlon more than decade ago, and says the decision to sell its three shops in Cardiﬀ city centre, Whitchurch and Whitchurch Road was a tough one. The online shop will continue as usual. www.bodlon.com

Dudley’s Aluminium strengthens senior management team with five appointments

Cardiﬀ-based aluminium fabricator Dudley’s Aluminium, which since 1993 has completed many prestigious projects within the education, commercial and defence sectors throughout the UK, has strengthened its senior management team with ﬁve director-level appointments. The internal promotions are: Neil Andrews, estimating director; Simon Hoggett, sales director; Neil Jones, contracts director; Gary Smythe, technical director; and Stephen Muir, commercial director. www.dudleys.uk.com

Happy 75th birthday to the WNO

Kelly East

In April, the Welsh National Opera (WNO) celebrated 75 years since their inaugural performance on stage at the Prince of Wales Theatre in Cardiﬀ. Having been formed by a group of amateur singers eager for Wales to have its own national opera company, the company put on its ﬁrst staged performance, the double-bill of Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci, on 15 April in 1946. www.wno.org.uk

Cardiff- and Newport-based Luna Financial Planning, founded by Risca business woman Kelly East in April 2020, has been awarded the status of Top Rated Firm 2021 by VouchedFor. It was the only firm in Wales to be granted this status. www.lunafinancial.co.uk

ALL HAIL

City Hospice, Cardiﬀ’s local hospice, recently relaunched its Donate a Day campaign which encourages supporters to raise or donate £150 to fund a day of nursing by a City Hospice clinical nurse specialist. Small business owner Jodie Tanner of The Queen B Boutique, in Penarth and Barry, along with her team and customers raised £1,500, funding 10 days of nursing care. www.cityhospice.org.uk

Virtual one hour sessions, all free to attend Search Cardiff Life on LinkedIn for upcoming dates and registration If you would like to get involved, please email events@mediaclash.co.uk

CARDIFFWORKS

“I DIDN’T THINK WE COULD WIN..!”

Sponsors gain close association with the most prestigious event in Cardiff

Anybody can win, so why not give it a go? Whether you’re a first-time entrant, previous winner, tiniest of new companies or largest of corporates – absolutely anyone can win!

N Win and bring that award back home!

Backed by a massive marketing campaign, this event has sold out every year its been held

TESTIMONIAL

“We’re always really excited about the Awards; we have been to many through the years and the evening in City Hall blows everyone else out of the water! Good luck again to you and everyone entering this year.” Craig Pugh, The Galley, Penarth

ominations are in full flow for the Cardiff Life Awards and following a memorable virtual event last year. Organisers are anticipating many of the Cardiff business community putting themselves forward for the chance to win in this year of grand rejuvenation. “With the Cardiff Life Awards coming back in September, now is a great time to become part of it!” said Annie Miekus, events and brand manager at MediaClash. “Share your business triumphs and proud achievements from the past year with us and have your work in the Cardiff area celebrated.” Nominees are encouraged to check the ‘Top Tips’ page on the Awards site, which covers everything from what to include within a nomination to making a strong case that will surely SPONSORSHIPS For remaining options, please contact annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk or mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk NOMINATIONS Open via our website www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk

wow the judges. If you’re an ambitious company and proud to be a great Cardiff business or possibly want to signal support for other Cardiff businesses after this year of all years, get in touch with organisers for more on how to get involved in 2021. Sponsorships are available for Cardiff’s most prestigious Awards ceremony. The night has many businesses on board so far, led by Platinum sponsor Marsh Commercial, with other sponsors including Genero, Park Plaza, Regus, Warwick Event Services; and of course, Cardiff Life itself. Several category sponsorships are currently under discussion; step forward and be part of the 2021 ceremony. For more: www.cardifflifeawards.co.uk @cardifflifeawds

TICKETS Updates when on sale. Limited number of Partners including Table. Please note: we sell out every year with many on the waiting list.

AWARDS The uberglam Cardiff Life Awards will be held at City Hall on 30 September 2021. Nothing beats being there… SOCIAL MEDIA Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter for all updates. www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 61

SPONSORED CONTENT

Tooth be told ANDREW GARDINER AT SIX GABLES DENTAL PRACTICE tells us about his most popular services

ndrew’s first six months at the Six Gables Dental practice has flown by. His transition into the practice was made a lot easier as he was reunited with his nurse Cassie McCarthy – who he has been working with for over five years – plus Carly Perry, aka A Welsh Hygienist, and Lisa Furley the practice manager. Lisa returned to her career in dentistry as Andrew’s trainee dental nurse and has progressed in her career to work alongside Andrew as his practice manager. He has found working alongside them invaluable when it comes to building his patient list as there is nothing his patients like more than a familiar face they can trust. Andrew has introduced the Denplan scheme to the practice which has gone from strength to strength and has enabled the whole team to broaden their skill set with the ongoing training and support provided by the extremely reputable Denplan brand. He has a passion and a keen interest in dental implantology, which in 2018 he completed his MSc in, and has had multiple publications from his final research project. He has become the in-house go-to referral dentist for this procedure and has established a busy external referral list.

Six Gables Dental Practice, one of Whitchurch’s prettiest buildings

62 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

He has also become extremely busy with Invisalign which is a removeable almost unnoticeable short-term orthodontic system. This can be used to both straighten misaligned teeth and provide optimal tooth positioning prior to cosmetic procedures such as dental veneers resulting in minimal tooth preparation. His colleague and principal dentist Dr Huw Bowen offers a fixed alternative known as C-Fast. Huw is highly experienced and knowledgeable in this treatment modality and is one of the lead practitioners in the UK to provide this treatment. Andrew’s most exciting recent accolade is being chosen by the highly respected Rebecca Tallon de Havilland to be the lead nonsurgical facial feminisation practitioner on her 56T trans boot camp. This will include using a combination of dermal fillers, muscle relaxing injections and the latest prescription based topical products. This project was founded by Rebecca in 2016 and is run in conjunction with the Princes Trust and The Chelsea and Westminster hospital. Andrew has been provided with his own consulting room in 56 Dean Street, Soho, from which he will undertake the treatment. He is now in conversation with Cardiff-based medical professionals to bring this invaluable service to Cardiff. If these commitments alone weren’t already enough on top of being a committed father and family man, Andrew is a lecturer at the You Can Clinic, Cardiff, the leading training institute for aesthetic practice in Wales. He undertakes training in advanced aesthetic procedures working in conjunction with Prof Steve Davies, consultant endocrinologist and Aesthetic trainer. Andrew continually strives to be at the forefront of all the procedures he offers to enable him to deliver patient care at the highest level possible. He is excited to see what new projects he will become involved in over the next six months. ■

Andrew Gardiner and Cassie McCarthy

About the practice Our History Six Gables is a long established NHS and Private family practice in Whitchurch village. It is situated in a lovely listed building of character in a very convenient location in the centre of the village,with great bus and rail links with plenty of car parking nearby. Our Passion We are a friendly, passionate team offering high quality dentistry, using modern equipment and latest techniques, welcoming patients of all ages. Our caring staff will endeavour to support and relax even the most anxious of patients. Our Services A full range of dental treatment is on offer, from a comprehensive NHS service to latest private treatments including facial aesthetics, teeth straightening, tooth whitening and implants.

Andrew Gardiner, BDS(Hons) MSc implantology, Six Gables Dental Practice, 27A Penlline Road Cardiff, CF14 2AA; 02920 693664; enquiries@sixgables.co.uk; sixgablesdental.co.uk

DENTISTS

You work with the trans community too, tell us about that…

The practice has recently become the first to collaborate with charities such as Not A Phase and 56T to provide non-surgical facial feminisation to the transgender community. If your business were a person, how would you describe them?

Empathetic, progressive, dynamic, thoughtful, and most importantly trustworthy and honest. If we are thinking of celebrities, just picture Doris Day.

This will probably be the most exciting denistry feature you’ve ever read...

Top teeth tip…

Pearls of wisdom

We know what you’re thinking, how can a page about dentistry captivate me? Well hold up a second because this one’s got everything from trans feminisation services, to a dentist who overcame his fear of dentists, and adult goody bags. Here, three local gnasher experts tell us how their doing things differently… PONTCANNA DENTAL CARE Here we quiz Charlie Stephanakis, clinical dental director.

You’re big fans of dental phobics, aren’t you?

Yes, we treat people, not just teeth. We have a special interest in the treatment of dental phobics and helping people to improve their smiles with the help of cosmetic dental techniques. Some members of the practice suffered from dental phobia in the past, with one of the dentists choosing this career after he was helped to overcome his own phobia.

Top teeth tip…

Never rinse out after brushing your teeth; and don’t eat or drink anything afterwards for at least 30 minutes. 102 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna; www.pontcannadental.co.uk

THE SIX GABLES

Let’s hear from Andrew Gardiner, implantology dental associate. Go on, sing the practice’s praises…

Someone who listens to your needs, has buckets of empathy and is passionate about dentistry.

It’s the longest established dental practice in Whitchurch, housed in an unmistakeable landmark Grade-II listed building. It provides a full range of treatments, from Invisalign, to dental implants and facial aesthetics, and also offers same-day tooth whitening as well as 3D printing techniques on site.

Your most booked service?

Tell us more about the facial side…

If your business were a person, how would you describe its personality?

Cosmetic build ups, often requiring little or no healthy tooth reduction. But we offer the full range of dental therapy including all forms of aesthetic dentistry, implants to restore missing teeth, and long-term preventative therapy. What else should our readers know?

The practice has been going for over 40 years but has been known as Pontcanna Dental Care since 2014.

I have a huge passion for facial aesthetics due to the positive psychological impact it has on people’s confidence and wellbeing; services include facial fillers, line reduction, and tear trough filler – which is currently the most soughtafter treatment. I can’t emphasise enough the importance of accessing a medical professional to provide these treatments. Facial aesthetics have been a big focus of my day-to-day work for over 10 years.

A regular snack for kids is raisins; they are actually packed with sugar which is hugely detrimental for children’s teeth. Penlline Road, Whitchurch; www.sixgables.co.uk

A WELSH HYGIENIST

Owner Carly Perry gives us the lowdown.

Your mission is to make hygiene visits fun, tell us more…

My aim was to make them as enjoyable as possible; fun and light but also getting the job done to the highest standard. Patients can book directly with me without being registered at the practice. There is even a goody bag thrown in at every appointment, great banter, and a loyalty scheme. I wanted to make dental hygiene appointments a stand-alone part of our self-care routines rather than something we just do because the dentist has told us to. I provide all aspects of dental hygiene care including maintaining dental implants, stain removal, tooth whitening and, my personal favourite, facial aesthetics! What facial treatments are on offer?

My favourite string to my bow is Botox, and coming early summer is dermal filler. I specialise in making my patients feel like the best version of themselves. How long have you been doing this?

I started A Welsh Hygienist during lockdown, and treated my first patient in September 2020, although I’ve been a dental hygienist for nine years now. If your business were a person, how would you describe its personality?

Vibrant, fresh and quirky but highly skilled. Top teeth tip…

Using mouthwash after brushing can actually cause staining. Based at Six Gables Dental Care, Penlline Road, Whitchurch; @awelshhygienist

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SPONSORED CONTENT

May the ﬂoss be with you Nestled within the heart of Whitchurch Village, lies the hidden gem that is Six Gables Dental Practice, home of A WELSH HYGIENIST

Welsh Hygienist, also known as Carly Perry, describes how 2020 was a pivotal moment in her career. “In March 2020, dental hygiene services were no longer deemed ‘essential treatment’ therefore I was no longer needed within the practices I was working in. Overnight, my career had disintegrated! It was a really tough time, thoughts of dental hygiene never being viable again crossed my mind and visions of a career change loomed. I’d worked so hard to get to the position I was in and didn’t want to throw it all away. After much soul searching and with the opening up of dental services I thought, what better time is there for change? As self-employed traders, hygienists are businesses within their own right but very seldom work that way. I wanted to market myself as a clinician where patients could choose me rather than just visit me because I was contracted to a particular practice. With direct access rights this was so possible.” In 2013 the GDC removed its barrier to Direct Access for some dental care professionals. Direct Access enables patient’s access to dental hygiene treatment at any practice without being a patient of the practice or seeing a dentist first. Carly decided to market herself on social media platforms. “It’s so fun to have a vision

Whitening

64 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

of how you want things to look and watch it come to life.” So who is A Welsh Hygienist? A dedicated mum of two and driven businesswoman, Carly is entering her 14th year in dentistry. Cardiff born and raised, she started her career at the University Dental Hospital Wales as a dental nurse, continuing her studies at Cardiff University. She has been committed to progressing in her field earning qualifications in Facial Aesthetics, lovingly mentored by the prestigious Dr. Andrew

“I WANT MY PATIENTS TO ENJOY THE TIME IN THE CHAIR AND ALTHOUGH I PRIDE MYSELF ON PROFESSIONALISM, GOOD BANTER IS ALWAYS WELCOME IN MY SURGERY!” Gardiner. She’s now based at Six Gables, a modern dental practice offering the latest in dental treatment including Invisalign, C-Fast, Smile Fast, Dental Implants and complete smile makeovers, providing the perfect backdrop for Carly to offer her patients the best. “My aim is to change the stigma that can

Plaque removal

Carly Perry

be attached to dental hygiene appointments, from being something that is necessary to something that takes pride of place in our self care routine. I want my patients to enjoy the time in the chair and although I pride myself on professionalism, good banter is always welcome in my surgery!” With the help of her team at Six Gables Dental Care, Carly has managed to set up a business that aims to change the way we view dental hygiene visits going forward. “Although A Welsh Hygienist is its own business, Dr.Huw Bowen, and my wonderful team at Six Gables have been integral in helping me achieve this. The simple things like my logo on the wall are instrumental in helping me hopefully change the way hygienists think about working in the future.” ■

Carly Perry DipDH, Six Gables Dental Practice, 27a Penlline Road, Cardiff, CF14 2AA 02920693664; f  awelshhygienist appointmentssixgable@gmail.com

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Sunnier days ahead Care home ready to welcome back visitors as residents receive second jab

taff at a Cardiff care home are looking ahead with a spring in their step after all its eligible residents received their second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. NHS staff visited Tŷ Llandaff, an ‘all-inclusive’, residential, nursing, palliative and respite care home in Pontcanna, this week to administer follow-up jabs of the Oxford/ AstraZeneca jab. Care home residents have been able to be visited indoors by a single named individual since 13 March as part of the Welsh Government’s package of measures to ease restrictions. Visits in Tŷ Llandaff’s pod will able to continue which means residents can see more than the one person they nominate at the home. Tŷ Llandaff service manager Lisa Cristina said staff were looking forward to meeting relatives of new residents who have not yet been able to visit the home. All visits have to be pre-arranged and visitors

are required to take a lateral flow test before entry and must wear PPE. Mrs Cristina said all public health guidelines will continue to be followed at the home in Conway Road in line with the current Alert Level 4 in Wales. Tŷ Llandaff was one of the first care homes in Cardiff to close its doors to visitors last spring when the coronavirus outbreak started before the first national lockdown was introduced. The home did so in order to create a ‘cocooning environment’ for its residents and keep those in their care safe. Mrs Cristina said: ‘We’re delighted that every eligible resident at Tŷ Llandaff as had both doses of the vaccine and I’d like to thank the NHS staff who came in and inoculated everyone this week. “We really cannot wait to be able to welcome more visitors back, it really is so important to the health and wellbeing of our residents that they are able to see the people they love. “Of course, some of our newer residents who

have joined us have been unable to see family members face to face, so it will be wonderful to meet some of the relatives – some of which we have heard so much about already. “It was lovely to see a bit of spring sunshine this week and I know our residents are really looking forward to enjoying more sunny days outside with a nice cup of coffee. I also want to thank all the wonderful care staff at Tŷ Llandaff who are so hard working, thoughtful and always put the residents first.” Tŷ Llandaff opened in 2017 and was named in the Top 20 Recommended Care Homes in Wales by a UK care home website carehome.co.uk after less than six months of opening. It has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 on leading care home review website, carehome.co.uk n For more information about Tŷ Llandaff call 02920 600 100, email info@ tyllandaffcare.com or visit www.tyllandaffcare.com

CARDIFF LIVES

“Selling The Big Issue was a good start to my life here” LAVINIA NEDA

Here we speak to Lavinia Neda, a Big Issue vendor whose hard work transformed her life This April, Cardiff’s Big Issue vendors returned to selling the magazine for the first time in over 22 weeks of lockdown, with safety measures now including PPE and contactless card payments. Here we speak with Lavinia Neda, who sells the magazine on Llandaff High Street in Cardiff. She came to the UK from Romania in 2012 in the hope of a better life. All these years later, Lavinia has learned English through attending language lessons arranged by The Big Issue, and landed a second job as a sous chef.

two pounds ﬁ fty. But I sold four magazines and I thought that was a good start so I came back the next day.

When and why did you start working for TBI?

Do you ever miss Romania?

As soon as I arrived from Romania in 2012. The ﬁ rst time was strange because I spoke no English and it was hard to understand anything. I could just say hello and thank you. People asked me how much my Big Issue was and I had to learn how to say

What did you think of Wales when you arrived?

My mother-in-law lived here already and had told us there would be good opportunities. But I didn’t know how friendly it would be. It was fantastic for me; people were smiley and said hello and thank you. This was something new to me. To begin with we lived with my mother-in-law, but now my husband and I have a house with our son and daughter. Sometimes. It’s a lovely country with a bad government. They don’t help people; they steal from the people. My mum and dad died 15 years ago; my uncle looked after me, my brother and my sister but we had a hard life with him. This is my home now but when I saw Brexit on the

66 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

news for the ﬁ rst time I cried. Now my son’s asking where he’ll go to school if we have to go back to Romania. It’s diﬃcult. How has TBI helped you?

For me, selling the magazine is very ﬂexible. When you have children, you can’t have a fulltime job, but on my pitch I can work when I want and come home when I want. I’m also part of the Pay It Forward scheme, where customers can scan a code on the magazine and sell their copy on to someone else. My customers look after me and when I was pregnant people brought me clothes and presents, and it helped with my conﬁdence so much. Selling The Big Issue was a good start to my life here. And you have a second job too at vegan café Wild Thing in Cardiff…

It was my dream to have a job by the time my little girl started school and I can’t believe it’s happened. It was really hard for me to get a job before, but The Big Issue helped me. I never in my life thought I’d take a job as a sous chef, and now I want to learn so much more. What excites you?

In the future, I’d like to have

a business, maybe a small restaurant. It’s a long way off, but one day there might be a Romanian restaurant in Cardiff with my name on it. My biggest dream is to have a flat in Romania so that I could go back to visit. I want to stay here forever but if I had somewhere to stay and could go back to my country for a small holiday then I’d very much like to go. ■ For more: www.bigissue.com

WE’VE ALL HEARD OF THE BIG ISSUE, BUT HERE’S IT’S BACKGROUND… • It’s an award-winning weekly entertainment and current affairs magazine, which offers a new hope for homeless and vulnerably housed people across the UK. • Vendors buy magazines for £1.50 and sell to the public for £3, keeping the difference. • Since its launch in 1991, over 200 million copies of The Big Issue have been sold by over 100,000 vulnerable people.

M O ! N RO E W OP O S H OW N www.chalkhousekitchens.co.uk