SO Magazine April 2019

FOOD & DRINK

Raise a toast

We serve up a selection of the best bars in Tunbridge Wells

ISSUE 2

WEDDING BELLE Isabella Grace boutique owner Rebecca Doyle on her path to bridal success

LIFE & STYLE

Sisters doing it for themselves

Meet the siblings behind the hugely influential networking brand Mum’s The Word

TRAVEL

When in Spain

Squeeze in time to visit Seville this spring

St Julians Club THE PERFECT VENUE FOR YOUR WEDDING

A UNIQUE VENUE

Tucked away behind Knole Park, Sevenoaks, St Julians is a beautiful 19th Century house and gardens with spectacular views across the valley.

IN AN UNPARALLELED SETTING

At St Julians, we believe that your wedding day is special, and we aim to make it unforgettable for you and your guests. Our friendly staff can assist you in every aspect of planning your wedding, and are always on hand to ensure that your day runs perfectly.

BESPOKE PLANNING & EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

01732 458261 • INFO@STJULIANS.CO.UK • W W W.STJULIANS.CO.UK

Welcome

Editor’s LETTER

A

pril is a really good month wouldn’t you agree? After a long dreary winter, it’s a real delight to see the days becoming lighter and brighter, and to start thinking about holidays, dining alfresco and investing in a new summer wardrobe.

It’s also the beginning of the wedding season so if you’re looking for inspiration for your forthcoming nuptials then do take a read of our interview with Rebecca Doyle, the owner of the Isabella Grace bridal shop on Mount Ephraim. Her bijou boutique is absolutely exquisite and the quality of the dresses and accessories she stocks in it, not to mention her team’s excellent customer service, has seen it voted the UK’s best bridal boutique five times. Rebecca’s story is even more fascinating given that the former lawyer-turned-business entrepreneur is also a huge Instagram sensation courtesy of her @thehousebuild account which showcases her talent and passion for renovating properties and transforming them into dream homes. Take a look at page 14 to find out more.

Another interesting read I’d recommend is about two sisters who started Mum’s The Word, an influential networking and events company that has gone on to become hugely successful not just locally but now on a national level too. Siblings Laura and Natalie explain how their aim to empower, support and connect women through various events, talks and supper clubs has succeeded beyond their wildest imagination (p27).

April 2019

Culture vulture: our round-up of where to go and what to see this month

17 30 33

Running your own business? Then make sure you enter the Times Business Awards

An Easter feast of activities to enjoy over the holidays

The luxuries you need to enhance your life

Our resident music columnist Paul Dunton chats to the people behind MusicStation a school which aims to teach children how to play instruments in a fun and innovative way. With a presence already in Tonbridge and Maidstone they’re due to open their latest venture at The Forum so turn to page 11 to find out more.

And as it’s nearly Easter we’ve also included a comprehensive round-up of the area’s most exciting events that the whole family can enjoy (p6). Deirdre Huston’s Wealden Walks (p39) is another piece that will inspire you to get outdoors this spring and discover some familiar favourite spots as well as some new ones too.

Happy Easter Editor Eileen Leahy

SALOMONS ESTATE Tunbridge Wells Kent TN3 0TG Tel: 01892 779650 www.timeslocalnews.co.uk

EDITOR Eileen Leahy info@somagazines.co.uk

HEAD OF DESIGN Lee Smith lsmith8@markerstudy.com

SALES DIRECTOR Gemma Hak ghak@markerstudy.com

EDITORIAL Victoria Truman Andy Tong Charlie Bond Richard Williams

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore rmoore@markerstudy.com

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY Emily Hammond Emily Wood Craig Matthews

PUBLISHED BY

4 6 8 11

contents

PRINTED BY: Mortons Print All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.

Music columnist Paul Dunton meets the duo behind MusicStation

Expert opinion: osteopath Angus Gould on how to improve your wellbeing

Dress for success: If you’re getting married don’t miss the bridal show at the Hotel Du Vin p4

Local photographer Mollie Manning tells us why life is picture perfect

Talking Turkey: Why Zorba’s Mezze Grill is Tunbridge Wells’ hottest restaurant p41

12 14

82

Talk of the town: Comedian Paul Merton is bringing his new show to the Assembly Hall

Talented chef Dave Pigram hosts a secret supper Marital bliss: Meet Isabella Grace bridal boutique owner Rebecca Doyle

Flamenco spirit: Take a trip to sensational Seville this spring p75

35 39 43 49 61

Pastel power: Charlie Bond reveals this season’s hottest hue and her top beauty buys Wealden walks expert Deirdre Huston takes us on a magical journey

James Viner rounds up his best bars to enjoy a pint or cocktail in Retailer Lisa Hatton writes about her passion for interiors

Victoria Truman says creating an edible garden is a delicious idea

Two become one: Meet the sisters behind the influential networking brand Mum’s The Word p27 SO Magazine | April 2019 | 3

CALENDAR

CULTURE HUB Our edit of the most entertaining events happening this month...

by in-house florist Pamela Brise which are dotted around the castle.

Usual ticket price admission applies.

For more details visit: www. hevercastle.co.uk

STRICTLY SENSATIONAL:

DID YOU KNOW? BRIDAL BEAUTY:

The Weddings Today survey 2019 revealed that the average age of brides and grooms in the UK is 31 and 33 respectively

If you’re tying the knot in 2019 then don’t miss the special Wedding Bridal Studio fashion show at the Hotel Du Vin on Saturday (April 6). As well as cream tea and champagne to enjoy from 3pm there will also be a catwalk show at 3.30pm plus the opportunity for brides-to-be try dresses on and receive an exclusive 10 per cent discount on the day.

There will be many wedding experts present on the day including the harpist Victoria Longhurst and Mulberry events, who’ll be dressing the space in order to give you inspiration for your own big day.

Tickets cost £20 per person. For more information phone Hotel Du Vin on 01892 320749 4 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

FLORAL TRIBUTE: Visit Hever Castle & Gardens from April 24-30 and you’ll see a riot of floral colour courtesy of the magnificent tulips on display. This is the third year Hever Castle has put on this event and it’s set to be the biggest one yet with 21,000 tulips blossoming in the enchanting grounds of the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Visitors will be able to enjoy a self-guided tulip trail throughout the grounds and there will be free tours with Hever Castle’s Head Gardener at 11.30am each day. You’ll also have the opportunity to cast your eyes on the stunning tulip displays created

All new dance show Here Come The Girls is coming to the Assembly Hall Theatre tonight (April 3) bringing an exciting mix of individual performances and group numbers led by last year’s Strictly Come Dancing runner-up Dianne Buswell.

The show features a brilliant mix of ballroom and Latin dances and promises to be a fresh and innovative show with amazing and unique routines. Dianne is joined by fellow Strictly dancer Amy Dowden

and Chloe Hewitt also joins the cast of pro girls to make it the first all-girl Strictly tour.

Tickets cost £30.75 and to book visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

MARKET VALUE: If you’re a lover of unique retro finds for your wardrobe and your home then make sure you go along to the Vintage and Craft Market, which is taking place on April 27 in Chiddingstone Causeway. There will be around 50 stall holders attending the event, selling everything from art and jewellery to ceramics and

fashion pieces.

There will also be a delicious variety of artisan food and drink to enjoy and an area outside where you can unwind with picnic blankets, outdoor games and music – as long as the sun shines!

Entry costs just £1 and under-16s go free. Money raised will go to the local charity Bore Place in Chiddingstone, in particular geared towards their Grow to Grow campaign, which aims to help disadvantaged and vulnerable young people.

For more information visit: www.vintagecraftmarket.com

CALENDAR

DID YOU KNOW? 2,000 people are buried within Trinity’s grounds and there have been several ghost sightings over the years

story by Alex Kanefsky, The Boy and the Mermaid engages with big themes of migration and difference, through a fun, quirky and gripping tale. With live music, puppetry, a rapping octopus and a shifting set full of surprises, this enchanting tale is fun for all the family.

Tickets cost £10 per person and can be booked via www.emftheatre.com or 01732 304241

A NOTEWORTHY GIG: Folk hipsters The Keston Cobblers Club are back after a two-year break and will be performing at The Forum on Saturday (April 6). Rumour has it their quirky name was inspired by an 18th-century violinist cobbler who got everybody dancing and they’ve just released their fourth album Siren which, according to critics, is their poppiest yet. If a blend of effervescent and catchy tunes layered with brass, synth and trad folk music hits your sonic spot then make sure you catch them live at this excellent independent music venue.

Tickets cost £15 from www.twforum.co.uk

SERIOUSLY FUNNY: P ULLING ALL THE RIGHT STRINGS: The Paper Balloon Theatre Company bring their enchanting production of The Boy and the Mermaid to the EM Forster Theatre on Sunday (April 7). Performing this mysterious and magical tale at 11.30am and 2pm audiences can join three shanty-singing fishermen as they weave a fishy tale of musical merfolk, menacing monsters and spectacularly bad town planning.

Featuring original songs fused with traditional sea shanties, and based on a

One of TV’s favourite female comedians, Lucy Porter, comes to Trinity Theatre on April 26 with her new show Pass It On. The star of QI, Room 101 and Live at the Apollo will be serving her usual punch-line driven chatty style of comedy as she muses on what we receive from our ancestors and what we pass on to future generations. In Lucy’s case she’s inherited dodgy knees and global warming from her parents, but the ultimate question is, can she leave a better legacy for her children?

Why not go along to find out? Age guidance 16 and over.

Tickets cost £15 from www.trinitytheatre.net

DID YOU KNOW? 13,000 people came through the doors at EM Forster Theatre for last year’s panto – a box office record!

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 5

EASTER ROUND-UP

DIVE INTO THE UNDERWATER WORLD

CRACKING

EVENTS THIS With the school holidays on the horizon there are plenty of fun activities going on. Joshua Walford picks a varied selection of Easter treats for all the family to enjoy

TABLE MANNERS

Captain Blackbeard’s Close Encounter Penshurst Place, April 21, performances at 12noon, 1.30pm, 3pm in the Buttery.

We may think the creatures of the deep sea are in sailors’ and storytellers’ imaginations but Captain Blackbeard has a very different opinion! Join the Captain and some of his sea crew at Penshurst Place as they regale you with stories of their encounters with a beastly creature – and the surprising turn their trip took...

For more information visit www.penshurstplace.com

Easter

Children aged 10 and under will be able to enjoy complimentary food and an Easter egg hunt at the Hotel Du Vin on Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells from April 6-20.

Take a break from scoffing all that chocolate over Easter by treating your children’s tastebuds to some complimentary delights from the tempting menu on offer at the Hotel Du Vin.

After they’ve feasted, the children can head off on a free Easter egg hunt. Clues will be dotted around the hotel and the surrounding gardens.

For more information phone 01892 526455

HUNT FOR FUN

Hever Castle and Gardens Easter activities on from April 6-22 Channel your child’s inner detective by sending them on a special hunt at Hever Castle for colourful carrots and cute bunnies around the grounds of this stunning estate. If they – and you – are feeling in a creative mood then why not try to create the best Easter bonnet at the daily crafts workshop? Children can also have their faces painted for a small additional charge.

For more information visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

CHANCE YOUR ARM RISE TO THE OCCASION

Easter cookery pop-up at Chiddingstone Castle on April 11.

This is a day of Easter themed baking from scratch for everybody to enjoy. Local food expert Jo Banks will be on hand to teach you fun techniques to achieve successful bread and pastry making. All ingredients and equipment are provided, as well as an apron.

But do bring your own packed lunch as the event will be running from 10am to 3.30pm.

The day will include an exclusive VIP tour of the castle. There will also be Funny Bunny Easter Hunts from April 14-17 and 21-24.

For more information visit: www.chiddingstone castle.org.uk

6 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

Archery sessions at Bodiam Castle from April 6-22 Every day during the school holidays, experts from the Hawking Centre will be at Bodiam Castle so your children can become knights and princesses for a day and try their hand at archery.

There’s no need to prebook, just turn up and follow the signs to the archery centre and then a visitor reception team will guide you. The minimum price per session is £3, and sessions run from 10.30am to 4pm. For more information visit: www. nationaltrust.org.uk

LIFE & STYLE

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 7

retail therapy

LIFE’S LITTLE

LUXURIES

Utterly timeless

With its pure lines the Calatrava watch is recognised as being the very essence of the round wristwatch and one of the finest symbols of the Patek Philippe style.

Supremely elegant, it charms each new generation of watch lovers thanks to its classic understated perfection.

It boasts a manual mechanical movement and a cream coloured guilloche dial with powered gold hour markers and a rose gold and sapphire crystal case. The Calatrava is water resistant to up to 30 metres and is Bezel set with 72 diamonds. Price on application at G Collins & Sons. www.gcollinsandsons.com

Here’s our edit of this month’s covetable collectables which will enhance your life

Looking good

This Czech & Speake kit contains everything you need for a stylish shave. The brush boasts soft badger-hair bristles which help to work up a rich lather while the Oxford & Cambridge soap is scented with lavender, peppermint and rosemary. Made from silver, the stand also includes an embossed razor fitted with Mach 3 blades and will look super stylish on the shelf of your bathroom. £375, www.mrporter.com

Leading light

Why have a plain ceiling light when you can flick the switch on this decadent delight and beautifully illuminate a room, and up the style ante? An elegant blend of contemporary chic and sheer luxury, the Gala Chandelier will instantly transform a hallway, living, dining or ballroom into a pleasingly aesthetic space – and create a stylish talking point at the same time. Made using a combination of polished brass and clear crystal glass, this is a real investment piece that will beautifully enhance your home.

Priced approximately £19,970 from www.luxxu.net

Talking tables A fine vintage

Esteemed French wine producer Château Mouton Rothschild has worked with a slew of celebrated artists including Picasso and Chagall on their labels since 1945. To mark a new label collaboration with the likes of Anish Kapoor, Jeff Koons, Lee Ufan and the Palace of Versailles they will be auctioning 75 limited-edition cases which feature five Château Mouton Rothschild vintage wines at Sotheby’s London on April 17. Sales will raise funds for the restoration of the Palace of Versailles and successful bidders will be invited to a private tasting at Château Mouton Rothschild and a gala dinner at the Palace of Versailles on September 21. For more information visit www.chateau-mouton-rothschild.com

8 | APRIL 2019 | SO Magazine

If you want to create a real focal point in your home then take a look at this &Tradition table. Designed by Spanish designer Jamie Hayon, the Palette Coffee Table JH25 is both practical and full of personality. Defined by a harmonious union of diverse, overlapping shapes, each section serves a different purpose and experience. Crafted from brass, marble and steel, with a choice of a black ash or walnut large tabletop, the JH25 can sit elegantly in front of a sofa or lounge chair, with the unique mix of materials creating a unified embodiment of contemporary design. £2,195, www.nest.co.uk

Section

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 9

Section

10 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

Interview

MUSIC

STRIKING ALL THE RIGHT

musical notes

Follow Paul @PaulDuntonmusic

MusicStation teaches budding musicians rock and pop in a modern yet effective way. With franchises already established in Tonbridge and Maidstone and another opening at The Forum this month our music columnist Paul Dunton talks to tutors Julie Parker and James Sedge about this creative venture What inspired you to start MusicStation?

Julie Parker and James Sedge

Paul Dunton Music Editor

My co-director Julie Parker and myself had written a BMus Hons degree, ‘Popular Music Performance’, for the University of Kent and we’d been running it very successfully for many years. We felt it was time to move on and use our skills and expertise to create a way of teaching rock and pop music that was thorough, rigorous and properly designed, as well as being fun, enjoyable and creative.

Julie and I have dedicated our whole lives to improving contemporary music education. We have both worked in schools, colleges and universities for the past 30 years and we’re very familiar with all the music qualifications available; and all the ways music is currently taught. We wanted to bring together the best of everything we’ve experienced and been involved with over the years, so we could design the most successful tuition method for learning rock and pop music.

So, we were inspired to start our own music school and to write a new syllabus fit for the 21st Century.

With help from

local businessman Rod Clark, whose son did our BMus Degree, we opened our first MusicStation in Tonbridge in 2013. We started with just one student (and she’s still with us now, studying for Grade 8 drums), and we now have over 500 per week - we’ve taught over 75,000 lessons!

Fairly early on, we developed a relationship with Trinity College London, and we became involved with writing a new grade exam syllabus for rock and pop instruments – it’s called Trinity Rock & Pop, and it was launched in 2017. This syllabus now provides the foundation for much of our teaching. We’re also a Grade Exam Centre.

Tell us more about your recent collaboration with The Tunbridge Wells Forum.

We are very excited to be working with The Forum. Jason Dormon and his team are so committed to live music and the venue has now taken on legendary status! Their support for young bands is really important and they have had such great success with recent bands such as Slaves and past bookings with Oasis, Muse, Radiohead etc. The history of the place just seeps out of the walls.

Our lessons will be held in the soundproofed studio backstage, with some sessions actually on stage. It’s an amazing opportunity for rock and pop students to learn at a venue they will hopefully play at when they’re ready.

What’s the lesson structure and types of tuition available?

Students can learn guitar, ukulele, bass, drums, keyboards/piano, vocals, songwriting, music theory and music technology, after school and at weekends.

We have developed a successful small group tuition method over the last six years – with up to four students per group, it brings down the cost of the lessons to only £14 as well as providing many benefits – confidence, collaboration, new friends and a fun atmosphere. Students are carefully streamed by age and ability.

We run weekly lessons aligned to school terms, and we offer extra events during the holidays. We also provide lessons in an increasing number of local schools.

We have 20 specialist teachers and a full-time admin team to look after all our students. Everyone gets a free trial lesson so you can have a play on an instrument, meet the teachers and see the facilities.

What will students learn?

If you follow the MusicStation method and the Trinity RandP syllabus you could go on to play professionally, or just as important, to have a life-long association with music through playing for fun and listening to music on a much deeper level. Our tuition promotes all-round musicianship, ear-training, improvisation and creativity, as well as knowledge of popular music styles.

Lessons are designed to make fast progress in small steps – and our supporting lesson materials include online resources, apps and video playalongs, to help you progress at home.

We like to work closely with parents, and we provide every student with a free practice diary with reward stickers, so they can track work set and progress.

We run a Parents Week every halfterm where they can sit in on the lesson and have a chat with the teachers. We also give expert advice on instruments and equipment, and we can get special deals for our students.

Who are the teachers?

We only use highly trained rock and pop specialist teachers who are all working musicians – and all DBS checked. Their music industry knowledge and experience is an invaluable resource.

Are there courses for adults?

Adults are always welcome to have any lessons we offer, and some parents are now having lessons with their children.

We also run ‘Play it Again’ sessions that are designed especially for adults who used to play an instrument and want to start again and play in a band. lease visit P www.musicstation.pro You can call 01732 350629 to book your free trial lesson in our studios in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Maidstone.

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 11

Social Scene

A CLANDESTINE CULINARY FEAST

Over the weekend of March 22-23, The Old Fire Station (TOFS) in Tonbridge hosted a secret dinner club with David Pigram Bespoke Dining at the EM Forster theatre.

The concept of TOFS’ secret supper clubs is that when tickets go on sale there is no disclosure of what’s on the menu or where the dinner will be held – until the day before. Essentially the idea is for discerning diners to trust TOFS’ choice of top quality chefs to serve up a gastronomic feast to enjoy.

Last month’s two-night sell-out event was hosted by talented chef Dave Pigram, who has worked for Michel Roux Senior and for Michelin star restaurants Reads in Faversham and Pier One in Sydney. Dave treated guests to a seven course tasting menu which included cured salmon with fermented birch sap sorbet and asparagus, two hour egg with mushrooms and vinegar bubbles and a dramatic candy skull for dessert. A truly theatrical experience was had by all and Dave returns for another secret pop-up event organised by TOFS in May.

Pictures by Russell Harper www.harperphotography.co.uk For more information on David Pigram visit davidpigrambespokedining.com

12 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

LIFE & STYLE

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 13

COVER Section FEATURE Art Direction: Lee Smith | Photography: Craig Matthews

Isabella Grace, based on Mount Ephraim, is consistently voted the UK’s best bridal boutique.

Eileen Leahy talks to its owner Rebecca Doyle about its huge success and finds out why her other passion in life – renovating houses – has made her a big social media star

LIVING THE

S

o Rebecca, please can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m a 40-year-old mother of 10-year-old twins Max and Isabella and wife of 13 years to ‘Mr D’, as he is widely known! We live in central Tunbridge Wells with our ancient, and now deaf, cocker spaniel, Chilli. I own the Isabella Grace Bridal boutique and I’m also an Instagrammer under the guise of @thehousebuild. I renovate and develop houses in my spare time.

Have you always been in the bridal business?

Not at all! A former corporate lawyer at one of the Magic Circle firms in the City, I left my legal career behind 13 years ago to set up my first business. I accidentally fell into the bridal industry while planning my own wedding in 2006 when searching for the most perfect bridal accessories. I launched my first bridal business, Chez Bec – which is now a multiaward-winning bridal jewellery and wedding 14 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

dream

accessory brand – soon after that. My twins came along in 2008 and I went on to open the boutique Isabella Grace in September 2011 when my children were three years old.

I want every bride, regardless of budget, to have a luxury experience whilst finding her wedding dress

Did you find the market very competitive when you arrived in Tunbridge Wells?

There were only two other bridal boutiques in Tunbridge Wells when we opened but I felt that there was room for more. Another one opened just after we did but they sadly closed last year.

Tunbridge Wells is now a bit of a bridal mecca with brides travelling to the town knowing that they will be able to find their dream wedding dress here.

Competition is good for business and the consumer!

You’ve been consistently voted as the UK’s best bridal boutique. How does this make you and the team feel?

To receive this consistent recognition at a national

level is just the most incredible feeling. Running a business and striving to be the best isn’t easy, especially in the current economic climate, and our awards make all the hard work worth it. It’s a great sense of achievement to think that we have been voted the Best Bridal Boutique in the UK five times in the last five years.

How important are awards like this and do you find that people travel from further afield as a result?

Awards are hugely important to the success of our business. Most of our brides come to us via word of mouth and hearing about our awards. We now have brides travelling to see us from as far afield as Dubai, Oman, Malta, Italy, Spain, Ireland and all over the UK! What would you say are the key factors that set you apart in the bridal business?

When we first opened our doors I set out to

COVER Section FEATURE

How to say ‘I DO’

to your wedding dress REBECCA SHARES THREE OF HER TOP TIPS WHEN CHOOSING THE PERFECT WEDDING DRESS:

1

Be true to yourself and don’t choose a dress that is way outside your comfort zone or that doesn’t represent you as a person

2

We offer a highly personalised, one-to-one wedding dress shopping experience in the luxurious surroundings of your own bridal suite within our Tunbridge Wells townhouse

redefine the bridal shopping experience. I wanted every bride, regardless of budget, to have a luxury experience and very personalised level of service.

This is quite different to what I received when shopping for my own wedding dress back in 2005 and something which wasn’t being done in the industry when I opened.

What plans do you have for the future of Isabella Grace?

To continue to be at the top of our game in offering the best bridal experience out there.

Think about your venue and choose a dress that will work with it. We have a lot of brides who get married in Italy and huge trains are a no-no for cobbled streets

3

Choose a dress that is timeless.

Who wants to look back at their wedding photos in 40 years’ time and think ‘why on earth did I choose that’? I’m thinking the big puff-sleeves from the 1980’s here!

WHY I LOVE TUNBRIDGE WELLS Rebecca Doyle

Where’s your favourite place to shop? I love to support the independent boutiques on the High Street and my favourites include Kitch, Bod & Ted and Anna Poulsen.

And to eat out? I adore Hatton’s and Juliet’s for breakfast. For lunch and dinner it would have to be The Ivy, the Mount Edgcumbe and the Nevill Crest & Gun. We also love the roasts at The Tunbridge Wells Hotel.

And for cocktails? I’m much more of a gin fan to be honest so it would have to be The Ivy or Chapel Place Wine & Gin Bar.

And to get away from it all? We have a rather ancient cocker spaniel so walking is always an essential part of our weekends.

There’s something so peaceful and grounding about being surrounded by trees and our favourite walks are Eridge Rocks, Harrison’s Rocks and Hargate Forest.

A lot of our walks often end up in the pub (funnily enough!) and one of our favourites on a Sunday afternoon, while the dinner is cooking at home, is the Duke of York for a quick drink and family game of cards.

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 15

COVER FEATURE

House beautiful REBECCA’S OTHER PASSION IN LIFE IS RENOVATING OLD PROPERTIES, WHICH HAS MADE HER AN INSTAGRAM SENSATION WITH OVER 97K FOLLOWERS

Your Instagram account The House Build is hugely successful, what’s your secret?

I’m not sure! One thing I can tell you is that I’ve always remained very true to myself and incredibly open and honest, especially in my stories. What you see on Instagram is the real me. I’m not pretending to be anyone else. I share my life, the good bits and the bad, and I think that a lot of people feel they can relate to me being a busy, hardworking mum of young children who also enjoys some of the finer things in life. I’ve always believed in being kind and living your best life and I certainly try to make the best of my life.

Being a working mother is a huge juggling act, and I don’t know if I’ve ever found that perfect work/life balance. I am passionate about so many things and try to make time to fit them all into my life.

When did you start posting and what has it taught you?

I started @thehousebuild account in May 2017 to document our house build, hence its name. I wanted somewhere to log the progress of our build to be able to show friends and family. It’s been an incredible journey in under two years. I have learnt that social media can be hugely inspiring and motivating. Yes, it can have a negative side, but my following is very engaged, loyal and supportive of everything I do. It’s also enabled me to work with some of my favourite brands including The White Company, Mars, KitchenAid, Neom, Sofa.com and Andrew Martin.

Can you tell us why you enjoy house renovating so much?

It’s the challenge and every single project is different. It’s also hugely stressful as you are always learning. I love being creative and I find it hugely rewarding taking a dilapidated old house and turning it into a beautiful family home.

Photo by Claudine Hartzel www.claudinehartzel.com

16 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

Business Awards

WINNING WAYS

The great thing about the many businesses that enter the Times Business Awards is the stories that lie behind their success.

Times LOCAL NEWSPAPERS

2019

Every May the Times Business Awards take place celebrating local entrepreneurs and retailers who are making a national and sometimes global success of their locally based enterprise. Richard Williams explains the benefits of being part of this annual event

PAST WINNERS INCLUDE: JENNY KITCHEN, MD Yoyo Design – Creative Business of the Year 2018; Young Person of the Year Award 2016 Yoyo was founded in 2008 by Jan Golding, and Gregg Lawrence. Jenny Kitchen joined four years later and the business has grown rapidly since. It now employs 19 staff.

As a multiple winner of the Times Business Awards, Jenny said: “It’s such a great recognition for all of the hard work and dedication the team put into growing our digital agency.”

ROB YOUNG Chief Executive Officer, Infinity Group – Best Business 25+ Employees 2018 Rob started Infinity Group with business partner Phil Jones. The company has expanded rapidly over the last ten years, and they are now building their own offices in Tunbridge Wells to accommodate 20 extra staff to add to their team.

The company won the 2018 Best Business Award 25+.

“The award ceremony is a great event to take staff and clients too, Salomons is a wonderful venue whilst the food and guest speakers have been exceptional.”

VICTORIA USHER, CEO, GingerMay PR – Service Excellence Award 2018 GingerMay PR was quite literally started on CEO and founder Victoria Usher’s kitchen table.

She said: “GingerMay was proud to win the Service Excellence Award in 2018. The award served as public recognition of everything we strive to deliver for our clients – exceptional and long-lasting relationships.

“I would highly recommend other businesses to enter the Times Business Awards – you won’t regret it.”

HOW TO ENTER THE AWARDS: With ten categories to choose from, there’s an award for every type of business, whether a small, family-run concern or a large international company.

If you are based in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge or the Sevenoaks district, you are automatically eligible to enter.

Best of all, entry to any of the ten Business Award categories is FREE and it takes just a few

IT’S TIME TO PUT YOUR BUSINESS ON THE MAP

T

‘We are absolutely delighted with the support that these awards have received from the local business community’ Editorial Director Richard Moore

unbridge Wells and Tonbridge have always been well regarded for the number of innovative and inspirational businesses based here. The entrepreneurial spirit in both towns and the surrounding area has seen a number of companies establish themselves from very humble beginnings to become leaders in their field.

Many choose to stay here too, even when they have outgrown their original location and become large international companies or are trading on the London Stock exchange.

So to celebrate, Times Local Newspapers hosts an annual awards ceremony that rewards the great and the good in the business community, not just in our local towns but also in the wider community of Tonbridge & Malling and also Sevenoaks.

Now in its fourth year, the Times Business Awards are pleased to announce their headline sponsor as Cripps [incorporating Pemberton Greenish], one of the most successful law firms in the South East, which is based in Tunbridge Wells.

For businesses wanting to celebrate their success, raise their profile or showcase to the local business community their latest innovations, there are ten options you can enter.

These include Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Service Excellence and Creative Business of the Year. Each one celebrates the wealth of talent in our local area,

minutes to complete.

1) Go to timesbusinessawards.co.uk to find out more information and see the range of categories in which you can enter your business.

2) Send an email to: info@timesbusinessawards. co.uk with your contact details and we will send you an application form.

3) Or you can simply call the awards organiser Eileen Sweeney on 01892 779 583.

from established businesses to start-ups.

The guest speaker at the gala night at Salomons in Tunbridge Wells on May 30 will be the face, and feet, of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, Anton du Beke.

He follows in the footsteps of former politicians Michael Portillo and Edwina Currie as well as the BBC Radio 2 DJ Ken Bruce who have also presented the awards.

In 2016 the Times held its first Business Awards, which proved to be a considerable success, attracting more than 150 entries from some of the most innovative and successful companies, both big and small, recognised for their exceptional retail acumen and expertise.

Last year was the biggest and best awards ceremony yet, with more than 200 guests from businesses across the region attending the celebratory evening, which is an ideal platform for networking and building new business partnerships.

Editorial Director Richard Moore said: “We are absolutely delighted with the support that these awards have received from the local business community, without whom such events would obviously not be possible.

“Both those who sponsor the evening and those who put themselves forward as entrants have helped create a gala night that is now recognised as one of the leading social and networking events of the year.

This is an opportunity to recognise Your host and celebrate all that’s good about for the the businesses in and around awards: Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge. And Anton du there’s a lot to celebrate.”

Beke

THE TIMEFRAME: Businesses wanting to get involved have until Wednesday April 24, 2019 to get their entry in.

Each category will be shortlisted to three entries, and shortlisted candidates will be notified by email on Monday April 29.

Winners will be announced at the gala awards dinner on Thursday May 30.

Tickets are available priced at £95 per person or £850 for a table of ten. Numbers are limited and based on the previous four years, the awards night will be a sell-out.

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 17

Times 2019 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS

DON’T MISS OUT ON THE GALA NIGHT OF THE YEAR The Times Business Awards are set to be even bigger and better this year.

And there’s a chance for everyone to get involved, from those who want to enter, to those who would like to sponsor a category and others who simply want to enjoy one of the biggest social and networking nights of 2019.

ENTRY DEADLINE IS BY 6PM WEDNESDAY 24TH APRIL 2019

There are ten exciting categories to enter - including some new ones – all of which reflect and celebrate the wealth of talent we have in the boroughs of Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge & Malling.

The Times Business Awards shine an important spotlight on our area’s unique entrepreneurial spirit and impressive business acumen.

Guest speaker at the gala night, which takes place on Thursday May 30 at Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells, will be BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing legend: Anton du Beke.

He’s been a favourite on our TV screens since 2004, when Strictly was first aired, and has since gone on to star in numerous West End productions and other TV shows.

HERE’S A LIST OF THE CATEGORIES YOU CAN ENTER: Start-Up Business of the Year Award Creative Business of the Year Entrepreneur of the Year Young Business Person of the Year Service Excellence Award

Best in Food and Drink Award Best Family Business of the Year Award Best Business 25+ employees Best Business 1-25 employees Outstanding Business of the Year

You can register an interest in entering, or sponsoring one of the categories by emailing info@timesbusinessawards.co.uk

Or for more information and tickets please call Eileen Sweeney on 01892 779583

Section

20 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

Life Style &

FOOD & DRINK

n

FASHION

n

BEAUTY

n

TRAVEL

n

INTERIORS

n

GARDENING

n

MOTORS

From personal style inspiration and interior ideas for spring, to luxury travel destinations and where to eat well this month, you’ll find it all and so much more on the following pages…

HOME RULE Interiors expert Lisa Hatton reveals her style secrets p49

TWO’S COMPANY Meet Mum’s The Word founders Natalie and Laura p27

BEST BAR NONE James Viner on where to enjoy a decent drink p43

LET’S GO OUTSIDE Victoria Truman’s favourite gardens to visit p62

BEAUTY QUEEN Shop the cult make-up brands for spring 2019 p37

FEEL THE HEAT Why you should visit Dubai in 2019 p78

SNAP IT UP How to get fabulous foodie shots p46

PASTEL POWER The key colour for your wardrobe p35

SPANISH LESSONS Why Seville is so hot p75 SO Magazine | APRIL 2019 | 21

Life & Style

Welcome to the Life & Style pages of your new SO Magazine…

Tunbridge Wells has long been a fashionable place to frequent. From those who came to taste its health-benefiting spa waters and pose along its pretty promenade in the 17th century, to the modern day style setters who love to shop here or hang out at the myriad cool restaurants, bars and theatres, TW has proved to be a very popular spot for all sorts of stylish people over hundreds of years.

In our new-look SO magazine we thought it would be fun to shine a spotlight on a few of the area’s key influencers in the world of fashion, wellbeing and interiors, as well as focus on the hot spots to eat and be seen in Tunbridge Wells. You can read all about the people who are making a success of using the town as their HQ from page 27 onwards – and you’ll also find all your favourite regular SO lifestyle features, including gardening, education and luxury travel.

If you have a similar story of an enterprise or business borne out of using Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge or the surrounding area as your inspirational launch pad then get in touch, we’d love to hear from you: Enjoy,

Eileen Leahy Editor SO Magazine

22 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

ADVERTISING

R

BRICKS CIVILISATIONS SHOW 6-22 APRIL AT THE KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY

Civilisations is an innovative and entertaining touring show created by Bright Bricks with 40 stunning LEGO bricks models including life-size human figures from a range of civilisations thoughout history.

KENT & EAST S U S S E X R A I L WA Y www.kesr.org.uk 24 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

Bella Vou offer clients a uniquely individual approach to cosmetic and plastic surgery. Boasting some of the most renowned surgeons and doctors in the UK as part of their team from their boutique clinic in the beautiful and historic Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent.

Bella Vou are passionate about helping you realise your aspirations to look the way you feel inside, a more youthful natural looking you. From the moment you first step foot into their Pantiles Clinic, you will see that Bella Vou is no ordinary cosmetic surgery clinic. From chic surroundings to state of the art theatres and treatment rooms, their friendly team of experienced cosmetic surgeons and staff will ensure that you receive the highest standard of care and attention.

Bella Vou is recognised with many of

the UK’s and international most regarded aesthetics and cosmetic surgery associations including the UK Associate of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (UKAAPS).

Offering a wide range of procedures from face and body plastic surgery to non-surgical procedures including varicose vein and woman’s health clinics, lead by British trained Consultant plastic surgeons and doctors.

Complimentary consultations available during the month of April, quote ‘SO’ To find out more about the procedures available visit www.bellavou.co.uk Bella Vou, Pantiles Clinic 45-47 The Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN2 5TE 01892 257357 hello@bellavou.co.uk

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SO Magazine | April 2019 | 25

LIFE Section & STYLE

The Social Network

HOW TWO SISTERS BECAME MUM’S THE WORD

Art Direction: Lee Smith | Photography: Craig Matthews

Laura Swann and Natalie Mcilveen are sisters who jointly run the hugely successful PR and events company Mum’s The Word. Ahead of them bringing another Fashion Re:boot social and shopping event to The Secret Manor they tell Eileen Leahy all about how they got started and why they want to empower, support and connect IN A NUTSHELL MUM’S THE WORD IS A COMMUNITY. We organise and

host inspiring meet-ups and live events for women, mums and families in Tunbridge Wells and now throughout the South East. Through our events and inspiring panel discussions and supper clubs, we have brought together a community of like-minded women and mums with events that focus on everything from career and style to health and well-being. Our ultimate goal has always been to curate events that inspire, connect and empower people.

WE STARTED MUM’S THE WORD BACK IN 2016 and it came about for a few

different reasons. Natalie had just moved back to Tunbridge Wells from London and was on maternity leave from her job in events. She had gone to a few networking things aimed at mums in London but couldn’t find anything similar in Tunbridge Wells.

We are sisters and we’d always wanted to work together and combine our expertise in PR and events, and we thought, why not create our own events for mums? And the rest is history as they say!

OUR MAIN OBJECTIVE WAS TO CREATE INSPIRATIONAL EVENTS on key

topics and trends that are really relevant to women with children – without having to trek up to London.

We also wanted to bring together like-minded women who may not have met otherwise. It was also important to make our events baby and child friendly so mothers you could bring their kids along to lovely locations like One Warwick Park and the Royal Wells Hotel because let’s face it, when you become a mother you seem to spend an increasing amount of time sitting on the floor in village halls!

WE DO FEEL LIKE WE HAVE ACHIEVED OUR OBJECTIVES AND MORE – we now

host meet-ups in other locations too, and work with brands like Dorset Cereals, the babysitting app Bubble and jewellery brand Merci Maman. Our meet-ups are still child-friendly but we also host a lot of evening events as the feedback we received from mums is that they are keen to go out without their kids, so they can meet other mums and chat. We tend to host more meet-ups focusing on business or more serious matters in the evening.

Natalie was working as an Event Manager at The Roundhouse in Camden and has 16 years of experience in the events industry.

Laura has worked in PR for 20 years and was running her own PR agency, Swann PR, mainly focusing on public relations for companies in the interiors sector. “We felt that both our previous careers lent themselves well to curating and hosting events and we are both Mums – so that’s where our insight into what’s of interest to a family-focused audience comes from!”

OUR KEY AIMS

We also want people to go away from our events feeling inspired and having enhanced their lives in some way, whether that’s just going “OK I’m not the only one feeling like that” or they go away and decide to set up their own business. It’s important to us that they leave having had a great time and tell others about it.

SOCIAL MEDIA SUCCESS

Social media has played a MASSIVE part in our success – apart from some small amounts of PR that we undertook when we first launched, our entire community has been built through Instagram and Facebook. We often look at the negative aspects of social media but really we’d have struggled to build up our business and presence without it, plus it would have cost us a lot more money too!

But word of mouth is very relevant and important to us too, as it helps us reach new mums who might not have heard of us.

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 27

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28 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

LIFE Section & STYLE

Reasons why you should try going along...

HOME TOWN GLORY Tunbridge Wells and the South East is full of wonderfully creative and supportive entrepreneurs. In particular Clare Lush from My Tunbridge Wells blog, who gave us a really big shout-out when we first launched, and the ladies from Jem + Bea (creators of luxury baby changing bags) agreed to be on our very first panel, which gave us so much confidence! In return we love supporting local businesses and regularly feature them on our blog. Our Supper Clubs are also usually hosted by local entrepreneurs and take place in local restaurants.

Local bloggers we : My Tunbridge Wells, That Mum Blog, It’s the Fergusons, The Wife of Riley, Mum of Mad Lads, Ten of Zen, Katy Baker, Victoria Genevieve Styling, Tonbridge Mum.

From supper clubs aimed at empowering to social gatherings there’s always something to appeal:

1

Breakfast on the Slow Session: This was for World Mental Health Day in association with Dorset Cereals at Kingdom in Penshurst. It was a slightly extended version of our normal meet-ups and included a guided meditation, panel discussion, restorative yoga and a self-care workshop.

2

‘Body Positive’ Meet-Up: We invited Nat Lee AKA @ StylemeSunday and Megan Jayne Crabbe @ Bodyposipanda author of Body Positive Power for an emotional and thought-provoking discussion. We know that everyone left with a different attitude to their amazing bodies.

3

Blogger to Brands Special: Hosted with Zoe De Pass AKA Dress Like a Mum and Laura from The Modern Nursery. This was a business focused event aimed at anyone who wanted to try their hand at blogging, or for small brands who were looking at ways to build a following and keep their audience engaged.

Local brands we : Jem + Bea, Pop Pop Papier, Freckles and Fire, RAW Copenhagen, Catherine de Crèvecoeur, Love INC, Thackerays, Truffle, OWP, Bewl Water, Woodlands Festival to name a few...

WHY WE LOVE TUNBRIDGE WELLS: BEST PLACES TO SHOP: Laura: There are so many lovely places to shop. I love Botanica in Rusthall as they stock some of my favourite products including Spacemasks and Seven Seventeen candles. And you can’t beat Mink Interiors for gorgeous Scandi home finds.

Natalie: I love Bod & Ted on Tunbridge Wells High Street, they stock beautiful clothes and some amazing jewellery including some gorgeous Rachel Jackson pieces.

BEST PLACE FOR A COFFEE: Laura: I love going to Kingdom – the views are amazing and I feel instantly relaxed.

Natalie: Langton Pavilion is brilliant too, and great for catching up with friends for coffee whilst the kids can play.

AND A COCKTAIL? Laura: I’ve just discovered Verdigris in Tonbridge!

Natalie: Chapel Place in Tunbridge Wells also make a great gin cocktail.

FASHION RE:BOOT Tell us five interesting facts about this event • Fashion Re:Boot is the brainchild of journalists/influencers Erica Davies and Ciara Elliott • Tunbridge Wells was the first town to have Fashion Re:Boot outside of Erica and Ciara’s hometown and now it has popped up in more than 20 towns and cities across the UK • You can pick up a bargain for a tenner or less!

• As well as pre-loved fashion, there is also beauty, braiding, interiors, fashion boutiques, cocktails, live music and street food • Tickets cost just £5

Why should we go along?

On average every person in the UK throws away about 15 kilos of clothing a year – this is just not sustainable. The great thing about Fashion Re:boot is that it’s encouraging people to sell clothes they no longer love to people who will give them a new home. It’s a great way to make money (for the stallholders) and a brilliant way to pick up bargains for our shoppers! Plus it’s a great night out as we have a live DJ, beauty and braiding by Truffle, cocktails and street food – and lots of shopping! What’s not to love? So grab your girlfriends and get a ticket. www.mumstheword.online Tickets cost £5 plus booking fee The Secret Manor, Friday April 26 7.30pm to 10pm

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MUM’S THE WORD? • We are super proud to be working with Tommy’s the Baby charity on their annual awards ceremony in July at the OXO Tower • We’re continuing our work with Dorset Cereals and will be announcing a new Breakfast on the Slow Session this month SISTER ACT: Natalie (left) and Laura

• We are also hosting our first dads focused Supper Club with Al and Jen from the DadsNet in May. We love what they are doing and are keen to help bring together a dad community as well as offering events for mums.

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 29

HEALTH

on your HIT RESET emotional wellbeing Every month we will have a guest expert from Wellness HQ’s specialist directory bringing you advice from their particular field. For April we talk to osteopath Angus Gould about how he is tackling the common everyday stresses he is seeing

Wellness HQ is a central place of resource to educate, motivate and inspire you to live your healthiest, happiest life focusing on six pillars: social, emotional, occupational, physical, environmental and spiritual

Tell us about yourself and your path to osteopathy?

I discovered my passion for osteopathy after leaving school. I enrolled in a sports and exercise science course, something completely alien from my previous studies.

This opened up a whole new potential career path for me: health and wellbeing. I’d been introduced to osteopathy from a young age, my sister was treated as a baby, I was treated during childhood and my parents have been treated throughout their lives.

How did you become a professional in your field?

After looking through various courses from physiotherapy to personal training, I decided osteopathy was the profession for me, with its holistic approach being at the forefront of my choice. I attended Swansea University for four years, gaining a Masters degree in osteopathy. Throughout this time I worked in both the NHS and private clinics treating a wide variety of conditions such as migraines, lower back pain and even digestive issues.

Since then I’ve been practising across London at clinics based in Westminster, Camden and Brixton as well as establishing my own business based at Neal’s Yard Remedies in Tunbridge Wells and most recently Botanica Health in Rusthall.

repetitive strain injuries of the elbow from using a mouse too much. These types of injuries usually build up gradually over time.

One day it’s just a small niggle which can easily be stretched out and ignored, and this can lead to it becoming more frequent and far more painful over the following months.

These problems are all being exacerbated by the stresses of professional and personal life.

And what about mental health issues?

I have noticed recently that people are becoming more aware of how pain effects their mental health. Previous experiences, beliefs and attitudes towards pain and injury are usually negative. I hear many stories about having to undergo surgery, never fully recovering and becoming reliant on medication.

Pain not only causes physical stress but emotional stress too. As a result people stop doing the things they enjoy, which isolates them from social situations and can result in low mood and pain related anxiety.

It is becoming more apparent that overcoming pain and injury is not just a matter of addressing physical symptoms but challenging beliefs and attitudes. This is usually half the battle, especially for those suffering from persistent and chronic pain.

What are the most common physical problems you are seeing with your patients?

Desk related injuries! The majority of us now spend most of our working hours sitting at a desk, followed up by sitting in a car, or on a train – and then staring at an ill-placed computer or phone screen.

Issues can be anything from neck pain to

QUICK FIX SOLUTIONS n Set an alarm every 60 minutes to get up out of your chair to do a lap of the office floor, grab a glass of water or perform some simple stretches and mobility movements at the desk n Invest in an Apple watch or a Fitbit as it’ll help you gauge if you’ve been sitting for too long

30 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

Find out more about Wellness HQ experts at hub.wellnesshq.co.uk

BUSINESS OWNERS ARE YOU MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR HARD-EARNED MONEY?

We specialise in working with businesses in the increasingly complex area of corporate financial planning and have built up a detailed understanding of key concerns and challenges facing business owners and how to address them, as well as identifying opportunities that are sometimes overlooked.

Offering a complete service to businesses in all aspects of financial planning with the benefit of a single, long-term approach to client relationships means we can provide holistic ongoing advice for you, your family and your business, as your needs evolve over time.

We are mindful your time is taken up running your business but you need to consider issues such as: arranging agreements with shareholders to resolve disputes and tax efficiency; structuring your remuneration cost effectively; and mitigating liabilities that could arise from the loss of a key person.

We are running a series of short, informative and informal seminars in 2019, where we will be covering the following: Pension Planning • Maximising Allowances • Investment Strategies • Increasing Tax-Efficiency • Income Planning

Wealth Management For Business Owners • Pension And Retirement Planning • Tax Planning And Mitigation • Protecting You, Your Family And Business • Aspects of Exit Strategies

The seminars are being held at One Warwick Park in Tunbridge Wells, on the following dates: Thursday 25 April 2019 – 3.00pm Pension Planning 7.00pm Business Owners Tuesday 18 June 2019 – 3.00pm Business Owners 7.00pm Pension Planning To reserve your place, please contact Owain Blunkett-Evans, Wealth Manager at Burfields House Wealth Management Ltd. owain.blunkett-evans@sjpp.co.uk | 01580 211 211 | www.burfieldshousewm.co.uk

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time.

The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.

Owain Blunkett-Evans DipPFS, Wealth Manager at Burfields House Wealth Management Ltd Principal Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management

Tel: 01580 211211 | Email: owain.blunkett-evans@sjpp.co.uk | www.burfieldshousewm.co.uk

The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

H2SJP31536 03/19

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32 | APRIL 2019 | SO Magazine

LIFE & STYLE

Life through a lens LAUNCH PARTY Mollie’s shots of Love in Lace

Photographer Mollie Manning almost didn’t pursue her love of taking pictures but it’s a good job she had a change of heart as she’s now enjoying a successful career shooting for the likes of YOU Magazine and the Evening Standard as well as profiling a number of local lifestyle bloggers HOW DID YOU GET INTO PHOTOGRAPHY? I fell into it actually. I studied digital photography at university but after a horrible experience at uni, I vowed to never pick up my camera again. However, through meeting other creatives – especially female photographers – it really opened my eyes to imagemaking again. I guess you could say it lit that fire in my belly again so I began working for myself and haven’t looked back since.

Mollie works with lots of local influencers

Pictures of Mollie courtesy of Leana Catherine Photography www.leanacatherine.com

A SNAPSHOT OF MOLLIE’S WORK: SOCIALS: I cover lots of events locally such as Mum’s The Word parties, including the recent Vision Board one with Sarah Akwisombe at The Royal Wells in Tunbridge Wells PROFILES: I work with plenty of local social media influencers including stylist Susie Hasler, @styled.by.susie, Sarah Lilly, @sarahlillystyle, and Lauren Marks, @theparentingchapter STILL LIFE: I’m now a regular contributor to YOU Magazine and the Evening Standard’s ES supplement beauty pages Follow Mollie Manning on Instagram and Twitter: @molliermanning or visit www.molliemanning.co.uk

HAVE YOU FOUND IT FAIRLY EASY TO ESTABLISH YOURSELF? Not at all! It’s taken a lot of hard work to get to where I am now and I’m only at the beginning of my career. Social media has helped me greatly but so has good old word of mouth.Yes, it still exists and actually it’s benefited me now more than ever through that classic thing of networking. I work with such incredible, inspiring individuals who push me and motivate me and without them I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am today.

WHAT ARE THE KEY ATTRIBUTES TO HAVE IF YOU WANT TO BECOME A FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER? Drive, determination, patience and bravery – so much bravery! Having a strong business head helps as well. And if I’m really honest I

don’t really possess one but I’m learning.

HOW USEFUL HAS SOCIAL MEDIA BEEN IN TERMS OF PUTTING YOUR NAME OUT THERE? Very! I’ve been slogging away on my blog and Instagram account for six years now. I started when blogging was very much still in its infancy – there weren’t bloggers flying to Mauritius for press trips back then. I didn’t know where it was going to lead me but I knew I was working towards something for myself and for my career. So when the time came that I had a service to offer my audience, that’s when all my hard work paid off.

DO YOU COLLABORATE WITH A NUMBER OF OTHER BLOGGERS FROM THE AREA AND IF SO WHO? The beautiful Pascale, @Style_Mum, the lovely Victoria, @Victoriagenevievestyling, and Jane, @luludumas. But I also work with amazing local brands and businesses including Natalie and Laura from Mum’s The Word and Justine Barker from @barker_design.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES/ PLANS FOR THE FUTURE? My hopes and plans are to carry on doing what I’m doing! To keep growing and to keep learning.

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 33

g n i r sp FASHION

F O S E D A H S

new s in the g in r g d Bon te sprin a im lt Charlie u with the pastels season – pretty e it r u o fav

I

Collection blouse, £29.50, M&S

Next

Pink boilersuit, £52, Next Yellow denim jacket, £49, Monsoon

Miley trouser, £110, Hobbs

Fluro tinsel jumper, £55, Oliver Bonas

Floral satin midi skirt, £35, Topshop

know, I know, the shops are awash with exciting new trends from safari prints and khaki to broderie anglaise and Sex and the City style baguette bags – and yet I’ve chosen to feature one of the most passé spring trends of all – pastels.

You’d be right to think it’s fairly unoriginal – after all, every year as Easter beckons the shop windows boast a Cadbury’s Mini Egg-worthy array of shades, from pale blues to icy pinks.

However, the eagle-eyed amongst you will have noticed that this year, pastels are so last year.

One of winter’s biggest trends is making a comeback, and now we’re able to transition those pieces we wore once (then realised baby blue and snow don’t mix) into our spring wardrobes.

So far, so economical. But, if you missed the winter pastels memo or just fancy treating yourself to something new, pastels for this season have also had a bit of a makeover – they don’t just feature on ditsy prints and pretty blouses – although there’s plenty of those, of course. This spring, you’ll find these pretty shades have worked their magic on the utility trend, can be found mixed with animal print, feature on sporty sweaters…you name it, you can pastel it.

So, if you make one purchase this month, make it a pastel one.

Well, maybe you need to make two purchases – those Mini Eggs won’t eat themselves…

GO FOLLOW . . .

When Charlie Bond isn’t writing about fashion and beauty for SO Magazine she’s blogging on Girl About Kent, a lifestyle blog featuring the best things to see, do, eat, drink and buy in the Garden of England.

So make sure you go on over and take a look at her inspiring account @girlaboutkent

Charlie Bond Fashion Contributer Follow Charlie @Girlaboutkent SO Magazine | April 2019 | 35

BEAUTY

2Cosmetics Hourglass (available

Paris 1 Sisley (available at Hoopers)

Take

at Space NK)

From anti-ageing moisturisers to glowy bronzers, the Sisley range encompasses skincare, makeup and even fragrances, and the products are well worth their price point.

There’s even a mascara called So Volume, so we’re sold.

SisleyYouth Antipollution Hydrating Moisturiser, £138

Not only are Hourglass products really rather good, the brand also prides itself on being cruelty free. Their Full Spectrum mascara is amazing and we love their foundations too.

The brand is a favourite among beauty experts and it’s one of ours too.

Hourglass Translucent Setting Powder, £45

It’s officially spring so time to switch up your beauty routine. Charlie Bond picks five of her favourite beauty brands, all available in Tunbridge Wells Beauty 4 Pixi (available at M&S)

Arden 3 Elizabeth (available at Boots)

An oldie but a goodie – Elizabeth Arden sells one of their Eight Hour Skin Protectant Balms every minute worldwide. In fact, apparently even Prince Harry is a fan.

Their makeup offerings might not be as well-known as the Eight Hour range but they’re well worth a look, especially their lipsticks, which are longlasting and moisturising.

Elizabeth Arden Beautiful Colour Lipsticks, £22

Popular with influencers and industry experts, this brand is especially notable for its skincare range including the infamous Glow Tonic toner – but their makeup offering is also strong. Try their blusher, which comes in a variety of flattering shades and lasts for ages.

Pixi Glow Tonic, £18

Tilbury 5 Charlotte (available at Fenwick)

There’s a reason Charlotte Tilbury makeup is a cult favourite.

Originally an artist to Hollywood’s stars, now Charlotte’s collection is loved the world over. Try one of the highlighting palettes and you’ll be hooked…

Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow Highlighter £49

Charlie Bond Fashion Contributer Follow Charlie @Girlaboutkent SO Magazine | April 2019 | 37

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38 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

OUT & ABOUT

Take a walk on the wild side

Local author Deirdre Huston explains why the High Weald inspires her writing and offers tips on where to get out and about this Easter

Photos by: Deirdre Huston

Being immersed in our natural landscape not only keeps us fit but also soothes away the stresses of modern life

O

nature conservation and so switched and link it with interesting habitats ne benefit of being a to being a walks writer, giving myself such as Rocks Wood and the RSPB writer is that you learn to the perfect excuse to dawdle in the River Medway conservation area. Or I follow your hunches. I’d landscape, identify species and may begin with a unique location, such always nursed secret habitats, and uncover local stories as Sussex Wildlife Trust’s ambitions to be an author but it was about places. As I researched Day Eridge Rocks, and then construct a not until my youngest child started Walks on the South Downs, I became good walk around it. playgroup that I began to write inspired by the links between Some trails feature a work of seriously. I finished a rough draft of a landscape and the past, and soon literature, not just Kipling and Milne, novel, shoved it in a drawer and found myself making films with but lesser known works too, and if relished having time to enjoy being National Trust South people recommend walks or tell me outdoors. Then I Downs to about local stories, such as the hit on the idea to investigate the ‘Smugglers Battle’ of Goudhurst, then write a guide This fascinating area is history of I investigate! I love the orchards of book of cycle a mixture of sandstone Saddlescombe Farm, that area too. routes. ridges and rolling fields near Devil’s Dyke.

Vertebrate Ideas for refreshment, facilities and This interest led me Publishing, a parking are essential. Invaluable peppered with oast back to fiction and I company friends, family and volunteers test houses and ancient have written an specialising in the routes out. I double-check everything woodlands 18th-Century great outdoors, and we use Ordnance Survey mapping coming-of-age had produced a for clarity. I have enjoyed exploring murder mystery set similar guide the High Weald, one of the best on the South featuring off-road examples of medieval field systems in Downs which has been shortlisted for trails, quiet lanes and cycle ways, and Europe. But if you ask me, it’s only together with co-author Marina when you’ve trodden ancient the Spotlight First Novel Award.

Bullivant, we brokered a deal to routeways, tramped along river banks, Each guidebook takes about 18 produce Cycling in Sussex. The book lingered in meadows and marched months from idea to publication. I was a local success and the publishers down old coach roads that you can create the kind of trails my friends, went on to commission four more. truly say you know an area. I hope family and I would want to walk on a Writing outdoor guides enables me to you enjoy the trails in Day Walks on day out. I may start with a stretch of combine three passions: writing, the High Weald, published in 2018 path, such as the High Weald photography and exploring the and widely available from bookshops.

Landscape Trail near Groombridge, outdoors. For my second project, I explored the wider opportunities for AS WELL AS DEIRDRE’S regular Sussex Life Sunday Strolls column, she traffic-free cycling and this developed is now working on a new novel, revolving around a 19th-Century crime which is into Cycling Days Out South East committed in a judgemental High Weald village, and developing ideas for an exciting England, a guide to the fantastic family outdoor guidebook. If you would like to walk with her, or join her for a creative and leisure cycling on offer in Kent, writing walk during this year’s High Weald Walking Festival in September, visit Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire. www.deirdrehuston.co.uk I became ever more interested in SO Magazine | April 2019 | 39

Section

40 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

Food & Drink

DINING OUT

A TASTE OF THE

Mediterranean

Zorba’s Mezze Grill is one of the area’s most popular restaurants – and it’s only been open for two years. Eileen Leahy decides to experience a taste of its Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine THE LOWDOWN Ever since it opened its doors in 2017 as Zorba’s Meze Grill serving Turkish and Mediterranean food, this former café has quickly established itself as one of Tunbridge Wells’ most successful restaurants. Owned by Sedat Zorba, it has occupied its Upper Grosvenor Road premises since 2009 but only since it opened up a fully fledged eatery has it become one of the area’s go-to dining destinations. People clearly love its selection of perfectly grilled meats, delicious platters of tempting Mediterranean meze treats and relaxed atmosphere. Zorba’s actually doubled in size last year when it took over the shop next door.

THE AMBIENCE The décor here is smart and considered – think mango wood tables and leather banquettes set against a backdrop of lowlevel lighting, exposed brick walls, and hammered metal and mirrored wall hangings. Zorba’s open plan kitchen – which allows you to see all the restaurant’s food being prepared and cooked – acts as another key and enjoyable visual element.

LIQUID REFRESHMENT We were quickly presented our menus, which boast a huge array of dishes to choose from so while we pondered our choices we ordered an aperitif. My husband went for a bottle of Turkey’s most popular beer, Efes, an easy to drink, sweet, malty pilsner with hits of aromatic spice that linger on the tastebuds (£3.50). I decided to try a

glass of Turkish white wine. There are three to choose from – Cankaya Kavaklidere, a popular citrus offering; Misket Kavaklidere, which boasts stone fruit aromas and tropical notes; and DLC Sultaniye, an aromatic, crisp and fruity little number. I chose the Misket (£5.75) and was impressed by its complexity and depth. The bottle of water placed on our table was infused with mint leaves and lemon – a nice touch to elevate it from a boring old jug of tap water.

UNDER STARTERS ORDERS To say the menu at Zorba’s is comprehensive is an understatement.

There’s dish after dish of tempting Turkish delights to fire up your appetite. As well as classic offerings such as mixed olives, calamari and hummus and taramasalata dips with warm pitta bread, there are other more adventurous items to savour for your starter. You could opt for soslu patlican – nuggets of deep fried aubergine served with finely sliced and fried peppers and onions coated in a rich tomato sauce and baked in the oven (£4.95) – or how about arnavut cigeri – a small plate of sautéed lamb’s liver served with onions and parsley? Due to the extensive choice we decided upon a deal which gives you a selection of five mixed meze for £13.95. Our waiter informed us the portions were slightly smaller than a normal starter size but that doesn’t matter as when the colourful platter arrived it’s very generous and could easily feed three to four people.

THE MAIN EVENT After feasting on such a delectable selection of mini meze which included babaganoush, a smoky aubergine purée infused with lemon, garlic and olive, and dolma vine leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts and caramelised onions, it was time to whittle our main course choices down. I eventually decided on the marinated and chargrilled chicken kofte served on a bed of bread and topped with tomato sauce and drizzled yoghurt (£13.95) while my husband went for the lamb shish cooked on Zorba’s Mangal grill. The meat was perfectly flavoured, tender and chargrilled beautifully. Each dish was accompanied by rice and a small salad but if you’re particularly hungry you can always order extra sides.

It’s important to note that you’ll eat very well here if you’re vegetarian: homemade falafels, hellim cheese and aubergine kebabs and veggie mussaka

are just a few of the meat-free plates to enjoy.

SWEET TEMPTATION To be honest you won’t necessary need a dessert after dining so well at Zorba’s but if you do fancy a pud then I’d highly recommend the baklava pastry trio. This sweet and sticky traditional Turkish confection is served with ice cream and looks as good as it tastes thanks to its sprinkling of ground pistachio nuts and pomegranate jewels.

We enjoyed it with a small cup of strong Turkish coffee that pretty much set me up for the rest of the week!

With such a variety of dishes to savour here for all types of tastebuds, not to mention an enticing loyalty scheme which gives diners money off their bills on selected days of the week, I feel Zorba’s will soon become a family favourite.

SO Magazine | APRIL 2019 | 41

Section

2 | March 2019 | SO Magazine

Section

SO Magazine | March 2019 | 3

FOOD & DRINK

CALLED

to the bar

We’re pretty spoilt in this area for decent drinking dens. From specialist artisan gin palaces to indie pubs serving their own craft beers, not to mention hip cocktail hang-outs, there’s something to quench everyone’s thirst. Our Drinks Editor James Viner suggests four of his favourites to try

James Viner Drinks Editor Follow James @QuixoticWine

This is sheer beervana and the HQ of hops

Fuggles Beer Cafés, Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge

I

Make mine an: Orval, the world-class, skittle-shaped, dry-hopped/ wild-yeast seeded Trappist pale ale that’s great with venison or fish

n a part of town not associated with good pubs, Grosvenor Road, TW is very lucky to have this establishment.

It’s not just the best boozer in midtown, it might just also be one of the town’s best pubs. The range is rarely bettered for beer geeks in search of what’s hopped and hyped-up and there’s a complete dedication to the craft of serving on display here. Incredibly, this former pound shop has only been a pub since proprietor Alex Greig took it on in 2013. In 2017 he opened another Fuggles in Tonbridge High Street which is going great guns, reflecting the same ethos and experience as its sister site.

Once you’re seated and perusing the beer list, you’ll soon be overwhelmed at what’s available because it’s the most

exciting, appealing, wow-inducing beer list – a rare opportunity outside London to be able to pick from so many treasures. The only questions are where do you start and when do you end?

The nights get busy chez Fuggles and you’re almost forced to make friends as you jostle for space, but in a place like this you’ll want to. As well as lots of brilliant beer on offer you can also enjoy gin, snacks, meat and the famous ‘cheese mountains’. Get there early and browse the incredible shelves and half-dozen fridges before settling in with a pint or two.

With the huge tap turnover, you’re almost guaranteed to have the freshest pint. It’s the kind of boozer where a colleague goes to the bar for a round

and comes back with a pint each and a £20 sharing bottle. They also serve delicious English sparkling wine from Hampshire, Black Chalk, and are now making their own beer.

Whether it’s standing room only or a (slightly) less busy Sunday session, everyone in this ‘café’ thinks the same thing: beer should always shine like this, and pubs should always feel like this.

Fuggles, 28 Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells & 165 High Street, Tonbridge fugglesbeercafe.co.uk

The George, Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells

Y

ou walk into The George and it’s warm, friendly and welcoming. I love it because it’s a proper pub (not a bar) and always has amazing beers.

From Larkins’ Porter, made just a few miles away, to Beavertown’s seminal Gamma Ray American Pale Ale, I know the beer is going to be decent – and even better with a pulled pork bun or George burger. Yes they also serve food. So far, so perfect . . .

The George website is constantly updated with ‘what’s live’ and ‘what’s waiting in the cellar’, so you can make sure it’s up to scratch before you arrive.

The food is a cut above the usual pub grub, while not being overly pretentious.

When Sunday and the occasional hangover hits you, it’s time to head here for its tasty Sunday brunch or a roast.

Throw in the beautiful beer garden and you have a pub in which you’ll want to linger for longer.

It’s the kind of place you can stay all night thanks to the good buzz and vibe,

You weren’t planning on leaving any time soon, were you?

which means non-beer drinkers won’t argue with you getting another round in.

Brilliantly managed by Paul, this is Tunbridge Wells hospitality at its best.

No wonder it’s currently the West Kent Camra Pub of the Year. Welcoming dogs and families, this place is an emphatic vote of confidence in the future of the pub.

The George, 29 Mt Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 539492, thegeorgepubtunbridgewells.co.uk

Make mine a: pint of Larkins Porter SO Magazine | April 2019 | 43

FOOD & DRINK

44 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

FOOD & DRINK

A wonderful world of gin, and the perfect tonic

Chapel Place Gin & Wine Bar Tunbridge Wells

T

Make mine a: Bootleg Boulevardier with Abelforth’s Bathtub gin (not the usual whisky)

unbridge Wells is also forging its own identity as an unmissable destination on the cocktail scene.

Among the town’s busy watering holes, you’ll find the same sort of reverence for gin, and this inspiring bar has explored gin’s botanical bonanza to create an unforgettable experience with over 120 gins and a house cocktail menu comprising six drinks.

Each one delivers a compelling story, courtesy of a curated selection of local spirits. It’s the intimacy between the bartender, the tipple and the space that I enjoy most at Chapel Place, which is located on the street that bears the same name.

Oh and the cocktails are pretty delectable and elegant, too, if you want something more served up in your glass.

If you want a calmer experience in order to take in the magic of Chapel Place properly, may I suggest you go on a midweek afternoon?

If, however, you want to be part of the busy buzz that has made this fine establishment one of the town’s most popular drinking holes then go along on the weekend. You won’t be disappointed!

Chapel Place Gin & Wine Bar, 18 Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 522304, chapelplacetw.co.uk

Robustly independent and unaffected

The Pantiles Tap, Tunbridge Wells

T

he craft beer scene is thriving in Tunbridge Wells, with The Pantiles Tap offering a pleasing, downto-earth approach. Our area is well-placed for pubs but the atmosphere here and variety of beers mark this place out as special.

It’s the kind of venue where you can meet your best mates and find new ones. Whether you pay it a visit when the weekly Jazz on The Pantiles event is on in the summer or drop by on a wintry midweek night, The Pantiles Tap is a lovely place to be, whatever the occasion.

Although a little hidden away, the Tap’s definitely

worth seeking out for its simplicity and extensive, brilliant beer list. Live music can be found on some evenings, which adds to its relaxed ambience. The beer is judiciously chosen with 16 taps featuring such stars as the fantastically named Weird Beard as well as New Bristol Brewery, Magic Rock and local heroes Pig & Porter and Curious Brew.

In a town that those in the know nickname Beervana, The Pantiles Tap is a bright beacon for beer lovers and a mainstay of local drinking culture. While some pubs can make non-regulars feel a little out of

place, everyone is a local at The Pantiles Tap from the moment they walk through the door. Don’t expect cocktails or sharing plates, here you’ll just be served good beers and ciders. In a world of chain pubs, this boozer offers the real deal. Make your pilgrimage there and settle in for a proper session.

The Pantiles Tap, 39 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, 01892 530397, @thepantilestap

Make mine a: pint of Magic Rock Fantasma Gluten Free IPA

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 45

FOOD & DRINK

perfect

PICTURE

I

At Dad’s Table is a foodie blog and Instagram account run by Tunbridge Wells new dad and food fanatic Adam Shaw. His social media success is down in some part to the striking photographs he takes to accompany his posts.

Here he lifts the lid on how to take fabulous food shots

spend all day thinking about food. Whether it’s what I’m going to eat, how I’m going to make it or how it looks on a plate, not a second goes by when I’m not planning a dish in my head. However, as we all know these days a plate of food can be the tastiest dish around but if it doesn’t look good, you may as well not have made it. Here are my top tips for taking great food photos.

TRICK OF THE LIGHT: Natural light is your friend. Your plate of food will always look 1,000 times better when photographed in natural light. Winter light is harsh so make sure you get enough of your pictures taken during the spring and summer months when it’s still light in the evening STAY CONSISTENT: Keep a theme going. All of my photos are taken on my kitchen table, hence the name ‘At Dad’s Table’. I may play around with plates, angles, number of dishes etc, but the constant of my table is always in shot. This helps to establish your brand

n

VISUAL APPEAL: Think about contrasting vibrant colours in your dish, as this will help to draw the viewer in. Also odd numbers work better than even. If the centre piece of your dish is a large piece of meat or fish, cut it up into three or five

n

46 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

pieces. Odd numbers are more noticeable to the brain as they stand out more. A chef at Leiths Cookery School taught me that

n

COLOUR POP: Focus on the extra 5 per cent you can add to your dish to improve not only the taste but its appearance. Is it some beautifully rich green herbs scattered over the top of the food or a deep sauce that brings together all of the different elements on a plate?

Perhaps it’s flashes of colourful red

n

DID YOU KNOW? The best food picture not only draws you in but makes your stomach growl. If your picture doesn’t make you want to eat your phone, then it’s not good enough. Try again.

FOOD & DRINK

pepper or pomegranate hiding in some rice or a golden shine from a beautifully browned piece of meat?

Whatever you choose, it helps draw your viewer in IT’S ALL IN THE DETAIL: Be creative with how you serve. You probably already have some great pieces hiding away in cupboards so get them out to plate up. Whether its stylish matching teacups for soup or some funky retro plates to inject n

some background colour, be creative.

And if you really don’t have anything yourself then head down to your nearest charity shop and pick up some bargains BE INSPIRED: Soak up what’s around you. Tunbridge Wells is a hotbed of wonderful restaurants and cafés serving beautiful food in creative ways. My personal favourite places to get inspiration from are The Beacon, Juliet’s, Thackerays, Bill’s and The Kentish Hare. So next time you’re out and about see what resonates with you visually and try to emulate this the next time you want to take pictures or post

n

ABOUT AT DAD’S TABLE: I’m a Tunbridge Wells-based, Leiths-trained chef on a mission to overhaul the way we see food and nutrition during pregnancy, early parenthood and family life. For recipes find me on Instagram under At_Dads_Table

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 47

FOOD & DRINK

48 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

Interiors

STYLE Section FILE

SERVING A SIDE ORDER OF

INSPIRING DESIGN IDEAS H Lisa Hatton explains why she has such a healthy appetite for sourcing a perfect selection of gorgeous interiors items alongside the delicious deli offerings at Hattons

SIMPLE HACKS TO MAKE A HOME LOOK AND FEEL STYLISH

L ook at one room at a time and finish it, as this will not only give you satisfaction but the motivation to move onto the next n L ook at what you have already and don’t be afraid to move things around and experiment with colour n T he feeling of space and clean lines can be created even in the smallest areas with clever storage, whether it’s an empty wall space to fix hooks or pegs, or a bench with built-in storage. Shelves can be used along with storage baskets which can add texture as well as being useful for keeping areas tidy. n

attons opened its doors in June 2016.

We put it down to fate as it’s on the site of what was previously one of my favourite shops, Gardener & Cook, on The Pantiles. I was shopping there three years ago when I was told the sad news that after years of trading the people who ran it were closing the doors on their beautiful shop and moving on to pastures new.

My husband Daniel and I had always loved The Pantiles and so we both decided that the Gardener & Cook premises becoming available could mean we now had an opportunity to do something that would combine both of our passions, food and homewares.

My husband Daniel is a chef who has worked for Gordon Ramsay and was awarded a Michelin star when he worked at Thackerays, and I used to manage Maison, a gorgeous French and Swedish inspired interiors shop in Tunbridge Wells.

It started off trading in Calverley Road and eventually its owners Katy and Hilary expanded to larger premises on Mount Pleasant Road, where it traded for a number of years before going solely online. It was the most wonderful shop to be part of and led me to going on buying trips as well as working with a fantastic team and helping the very large client base the owners had built up over the years.

When the opportunity came up for Daniel and I

to run our own business we decided upon a blend of both food and homes at Hattons because I was fully aware after my time spent at Maison that if families are all out shopping together not everyone wants to be there! I’ve witnessed plenty of tapping fingers on tables and awkward silences so the idea behind the Hattons emporium was to try and please everyone by offering food, coffee, great wine and homewares all under the same roof. Who wouldn’t love that?

It’s certainly proved to be a successful combination that has led to us using the shop for a variety of additional events such as private dinners and wine tasting, thus proving how versatile retail spaces can be. Here is the lowdown on my world of interiors:

An independent spirit

We think it’s really important to try and support local artisans if we can. They are key and can make shopping really interesting and not so mainstream.

When we go to trade fairs there are obviously big companies that we use but we also love to support small businesses.

Their products are unique and have been designed by them, so their passion is clear to see. It also appeals that the merchandise is produced on a much smaller scale so you don’t tend to see it everywhere, and it is amazing to be part of their journey.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 51

SO Magazine | APRIL 2019 | 49

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KEY TRENDS FOR SPRING S ustainability: people are becoming much more aware of the impact of products on the environment.

We live in a throwaway society, so recycling and upcycling will be key n T exture: mixed metals and natural materials such as wool, wood and earthenware will play a strong part in stylish schemes alongside understated and tactile accessories n C ontrast: the use of soft warm neutrals mixed up with dark colours and the layering of different textiles and textures to add interest to interiors will also be a strong trend n

2019

LISA’S FAVOURITE LOCAL SHOPS I love to shop in many places, including Darling & Wild, The White Company, Anna Poulson, Le Petit Jardin and The Danish Collection in Sevenoaks – the list is endless!

When time permits we love to go to Lewes and Brighton to just have a stroll. There are so many wonderful shops around and it is great to be able to wander in and out, see what you are buying and talk to people, whether that’s a small independent, a market stall or larger store.

All of them help make our towns interesting, diverse and great places to visit.

DID YOU KNOW? Hattons is co-run by Lisa’s husband Daniel, who has a Michelin star

SO Magazine | APRIL 2019 | 51

WHY I LOVE INTERIORS Lisa Hatton

I have always been interested in interiors since I was a little girl, from redesigning my bedroom, and moving things around! I enjoyed art at school and that was when my creative side started to evolve. At the age of 18 I started a job at Laura Ashley, and that was it! I loved advising customers on all aspects of interiors, from helping with room schemes to picking out wallpaper, curtains, furniture and paint colours. I get real satisfaction out of seeing the end result.

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54 | APRIL 2019 | SO Magazine

Section

STYLE FILE

SO LOVES:

We’re all shook up over these gorgeous cocktail accessories from Dunelm. Thanks to their golden hue and stylish design they’re reminiscent of something you’d find in one of the best bars in town – think Annabel’s or Claridges – and are guaranteed to make aperitif time just a little bit more glamorous. Cocktail shaker £10 and three-piece bar set £15, available from www.dunelm.com

G

reen has gone from being a rather old fashioned and stuffy shade to being hugely on trend given the amount of soft furnishings and accessories now boasting this verdant tone. Whether it’s a rich leafy hue or a paler pastel tint, green just seems to be cropping up in all kinds of stylish schemes.

All of a sudden it looks and feels super elegant and grown up and a welcome alternative to bold primary colours or safe neutral ones. As our selection of inspiring interiors shots for SS19 prove, green can be used in so many different ways, whether on furniture or as an incidental

aesthetic accent on accessories such as photo frames, ceramic vases, rugs or even statement foliage.

Complement with layers of rich buttermilk, taupe and biscuit for a really fresh feel or for a more vibrant hit weave in some metallics such as glimmering bronze or rose gold.

If you don’t want the hassle of redecorating then introduce prints courtesy of cushions or curtains.

And if you want an instant lift in your kitchen or dining room then how about some green crockery or glassware? Give this shade a go and I guarantee it’ll make all your friends green with envy . . .

BECOME A MEMBER OF THE Want to update your home with a new hue?

Then give the evergreen shade of green a go says Eileen Leahy

green party

Images courtesy of Amara (far left), Next (above) and Sainsbury’s (top) Home Spring/Summer 2019 collections

55 | APRIL 2019 | SO Magazine

Gardening

OUTSIDE Section EDGE

There are different materials and products out there to help you go plastic-free in the garden. Hannah Stephenson looks at five options

S

o, you want to help stop the scourge of plastic by making your garden a plastic-free zone?

It’s estimated that 500million plant pots and seed trays are sold each year, the majority of which are sent to landfill or incinerated.

Few garden centres offer takeback pot recycling or reuse schemes at present, although you can check at Recycle Now (recyclenow.com/ local-recycling) to see if your council recycles plant pots, though these also tend to be few and far between.

Plastic gardening products can take up to 450 years to biodegrade if they aren’t recycled, according to greenhouse manufacturer The Greenhouse People (greenhousepeople.co.uk), which has put together some top tips for going plastic-free:

1

SEEK ALTERNATIVES It may seem obvious, but the most effective way to reduce plastic in your garden is to simply stop buying it.

BE A FRIEND OF

the earth

With demand growing, more garden centres are offering biodegradable pots made using materials such as coir (from coconut husks), wood chips, rice husks and seaweed. Terracotta also makes a great rustic alternative.

If you’re feeling extra resourceful, scoop out the insides of half a lemon and fill with soil, before scattering a small number of seeds. Once the seedlings sprout, you can transfer to a larger area. Lemon peel also acts as a natural fertiliser, making it a great multi-purpose alternative to plastic.

Use biodegradable jute netting to tie in peas and beans, rather than plastic netting, and wire mesh to create fruit caging to protect your harvest from birds.

2

TRY WOODEN SEED TRAYS They will still get your seeds off to a flying start and are much more eco-friendly than plastic ones. You can also now buy bamboo seed trays which are biodegradable. You can even plant seeds such as broad beans and sweet peas in loo roll tubes.

56 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

3

MAKE USE OF BROKEN POTS One of the main benefits of plastic is that it’s durable and very unlikely to break. The same cannot be said for the more brittle terracotta and ceramic pots.

But don’t dispose of them if they break. Plant pot shards are easy to repurpose by placing them at the base of larger pots to improve drainage, or stick them in the ground and write on them to create handy plant labels.

4

CHOOSE TOOLS WISELY When it comes to gardening tools, it’s important to think about durability and comfort as well as the interests of the environment.

With this in mind, if you’re serious about reducing the amount of plastic in your garden, opt for metal tools with wooden handles, which should outlast their plastic rivals.

Metal can rust, so a little TLC is needed at the end of each season to keep them in tip-top condition. Clean each tool with a rag or brush, using warm soapy

water, then when dry, spray with WD-40 or rub down with mineral oil. Store by hanging on hooks (away from the damp floor) in a dry, airy location for the winter.

5

BE CARING AND SHARING If you find you’ve somehow accumulated lots of plasticbased tools and equipment, then don’t fret.

Should you use a community allotment or have friends who also enjoy a spot of gardening, why not suggest sharing your plastic equipment or handing it down?

Be a green pioneer and inspire fellow gardeners with the changes you are making and they may just follow suit. Remember, knowledge is power, so if you’re serious about preserving the environment, lead by example.

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Gardening

OUTSIDE EDGE

Food for thought in the garden this summer Whether you’ve got a large outside space or a small balcony, you can grow an abundance of delicious herbs, fruit and edible flowers to enhance your cooking and general wellbeing. Victoria Truman sows some seeds of inspiration...

A

n edible garden is a garden that contains flowers, herbs, seeds, berries and plants that you can eat. It does not have to be large.Your garden can start with a few pots and containers, or even just a window box with a few herbs.

In my own garden I have designed spaces that allow for the growing of wild strawberries, thyme, chives and plants with edible flowers, such as pansies, violets and forget-me-nots, all making perfect edging plants.

I have a low wall which I have designed so it had a planting channel along the top where lemon thyme grows in abundance, I have rosemary planted behind topiary balls adding structure to the border whilst delivering handfuls of scented herb all year round.

The border is beside my patio doors within easy reach when I need extra flavour for the food I’m cooking. I planted up an antique, galvanised champagne bucket with wild strawberry plants, I feed them regularly through the summer and I’m rewarded with so many sweet-tasting, tiny strawberries. Delicious and fragrant, I pick and eat them as I tend my garden, a worthy treat and so easy to grow and maintain.

I buy fresh basil plants every spring and plant out into terracotta pots, and I have bronze fennel, foeniculum

TOP JOBS FOR SPRING: Here are a few ideas on how to make a garden beautiful and productive

1

Finish planting shrubs, trees and hedges, watering them in well

2

Prune roses. You can shorten them by at least a half, cutting back just above an outwardfacing bud, I am training my roses horizontally to make them produce more flowers

3

Feed and mulch beds and borders using organic farmyard fertiliser and a good plant food first

4

Plant herbaceous items thinking of what you want from the look of your garden. If planning a new border, always use fewer types of plants in bigger quantities to give you more impact

5

Plant summer bulbs in borders and pots

6

Sow tender vegetables such as tomatoes and runner beans on a window ledge indoors

vulgare ‘Giant Bronze’, growing in my herbaceous borders. Its fine clouds of feathery, bronze-purple leaves are followed by flat-topped, sulphur-yellow flower heads in mid to late summer and then by aromatic seeds.

This giant fennel looks fantastic as a centrepiece for a sunny herb garden.

The foliage acts as a delicate veil through which the flower heads of herbaceous plants and bulbs can be seen. Tasty foliage suits both fish and meat as well as in salads.

Fruit can be easy with a bit of thought. Many trees, bushes or lowgrowing plants have pretty fruit, attractive flowers or foliage. If you don’t have room in a border, make the most of vertical surfaces such as walls and fences – grape vines, fan-trained cherries, espalier or cordon apples, plums, peaches and figs are all ideal. Make sure you install some horizontal training wires or screw on a piece of trellis before planting.

7

Buy young vegetable plants in a nursery such as lettuce and cabbage for planting out

8

In warmer areas, start growing vegetables outdoors from seed

9

Mow the lawn on a high cut

10

Weeds are starting to grow, keep on top of them on a weekly basis to stop it becoming a laborious job. It’s like ironing, there’s always more!

Victoria Truman Garden Designer

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 61

OUTSIDE EDGE

IT’S GREAT OUTDOORS Spring is such a lovely time in the garden and the countryside, everything looks so fresh and pretty after the dreariness of winter. If you can, just go and visit one of the many beautiful gardens in this area Great Comp Garden, St Mary’s Platt, Sevenoaks TN15 8QS

Great Dixter (left), Great Comp (below), Sissinghurst (right)

Penshurst Place House and Gardens, Penshurst TN11 8DG Sissinghurst Castle Gardens, Cranbrook TN17 2AB Great Dixter, Northiam, Rye TN31 6PH Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Sevenoaks TN15 0RR Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge TN8 7NG Pashley Manor, Ticehurst, Wadhurst TN5 7HE victoriatruman.com

CLA55IC TUNBRIDGE WELLS CLASSIC MOTOR SHOW SUNDAY 23 JUNE 2019 Mable Farm London Road Southborough Tunbridge Wells TN4 0UH 10am - 4pm

100s of Classic vehicles, Retro Stalls, The Classic Music Show with BEN MILLS & Band X Factor, Abalicious & Jodie South. Children’s entertainers, Pip the Clown, Punch & Judy, rides, quality refreshments & more...

Book online: Adults £6.00 Children £4.00 Family £18.00 www.classicmusicandmotors.co.uk T: 07841 598076 Visit the website to book in a classic vehicle or a Trade Stall

62 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

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SO Magazine | April 2019 | 63

Books

For me, young adult literature had a big influence on my life, and it was this time that inspired my own love of reading and writing stories

Next month local author Nicola Young will be running the creative writing workshops for children at this year’s Chiddingstone Castle Literary Festival, which also sees the likes of Chocolat author Joanne Harris and wine guru Oz Clarke speaking.

Here Nicola tells us why she was inspired to write and how important it is to encourage young readers…

‘A love of the written word drives everything that I do’

I

’m Nicola and I live in Sevenoaks with my husband, three children, our Boston Terrier Barnie (crazy dog) and more recently, Oscar, the rescue cat. I’m a northerner, originally from Leeds, but have lived ‘down south’ for 20 years. I still have the accent though, and argue with my kids frequently about whether you take a ‘bath’ or a ‘barth’, a ‘bus’ or a ‘bas’.

It’s this Yorkshire childhood to which I credit my lively imagination. It was back in the days when children were allowed to run free and left to make their own fun. We had to make up our own games, spending endless amounts of time outdoors and without adult

supervision. Such was the extent of our imaginations, that one girl managed to convince me there was a werewolf in her garden. I have never been so scared!

Now an author, I write books for the middle grade and young adult age ranges. In July 2017, I set up Storymakers, a creative writing club for children. Providing weekly writing classes, holiday workshops and one-toone sessions for children aged seven and over, the aim of this club is to encourage and inspire a love of writing.

I have frequently found children are reluctant to write, yet they have incredible imaginations and love to make up stories. My aim is to get them

My middle daughter, a reluctant reader, was the one who inspired me to write for children

to translate these imaginings into words.

A love of the written word drives everything that I do. I had always wanted to write a book, but didn’t know, for a long time, what I wanted to write. My middle daughter, a reluctant reader, was the one who inspired me to write for children. For me, middle grade and young adult literature had a big influence on my life, and it was this time that inspired my own love of reading and writing stories.

Knowing how important this time in a child’s life is made me even more determined to write stories that could have that same effect on other children, including my own, and also encourage them to want to read and discover more.

I wanted to create something that was lively, interesting and, most importantly, achievable.

My links to Yorkshire remain strong and those memories of my childhood days provided both the inspiration and the setting for The Mystery of the Disappearing Underpants and the Time School series.

The Storymakers Club goes from strength to strength, with four established groups of children ranging from seven to 14 years. I regularly take my workshops to schools and will also be running the creative writing workshops for children at this year’s Chiddingstone Castle Literary Festival. So please do come along and say hello…

CULTURE CLUB: WHO TO SEE AT CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE LITERARY FESTIVAL JOANNE HARRIS WITH JULIA WHEELER

HUNTER DAVIES WITH DAVID LOUGH

OZ CLARKE WITH NANCY GILCHRIST

ANA SAMPSON WITH EMMA HARDING

The Strawberry Thief Chocolat author Joanne Harris talks about her life and work and a return to her best-known characters with her new novel, The Strawberry Thief. This is her fourth novel to follow the life of Vianne Rocher and her fellow villagers in Lansquenet-sous-Tannes; a series that includes Chocolat – which was turned into an Oscar-nominated movie starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp – The Lollipop Shoes and Peaches for Monsieur Le Curé. Joanne is an Anglo-French author of 14 novels, two cookbooks and many short stories. Julia Wheeler is a writer, journalist and former BBC Gulf Correspondent.

Happy Old Me: How to Live A Long Life, and Really Enjoy It Happy Old Me is a moving yet uplifting account of one year in Hunter Davies’ life, navigating bereavement and finding hope in the future. Three years ago, Margaret Forster, his wife of 55 years, lost her life to cancer. As Hunter discovers what it means to be single again, coping with bereavement and being elderly (he still doesn’t believe he is), he shares his wisdom and the lessons he has learnt. His book is a heart-felt tribute to the love of his life and an amusing and informative book about old age. David Lough is the author of Darling Winston and No More Champagne.

Red & White: An Unquenchable Thirst for Wine Oz Clarke is one of the world’s leading wine experts and he will be popping the cork on his life-long love affair with wine. Red & White combines a fast-paced witty memoir with a passionately opinionated guide, explaining how, why and where he discovered wine, how it is grown and made today, and how to taste and enjoy wine whatever your budget. Oz has won all the major wine writing awards and is a regular on TV and radio. Nancy Gilchrist is a Master of Wine and runs courses such as Académie du Vin at 67 Pall Mall in London.

She Is Fierce: Brave, Bold and Beautiful Poems by Women Ana Sampson has compiled a powerful collection of poems written by women, ranging from the ancient world to the present; it includes poems from suffragettes to school girls, from spoken word superstars to civil rights activists, from aristocratic ladies to kitchen maids – all with voices worth hearing.

Immerse yourself in poems by Wendy Cope, Maya Angelou, Ysra Daley-Ward, Carol Ann Duffy, Jackie Kay, Imtiaz Dharker and many more. Ana will share her passion for poetry with Emma Harding, a BBC radio producer and writer.

www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk/literary-festival-2019-programme 64 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

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SO Magazine | APRIL 2019 | 65

LIFE & STYLE

66 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

LIFE & STYLE

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 67

LIFE & STYLE

68 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

Education

Education

Benenden School’s new musical journey

Benenden School has begun work on a £19million project to construct a new school hall and music school

THE NEW DEVELOPMENT WILL FEATURE: SCHOOL HALL n A new school hall with capacity for 750 people n State-of-the-art acoustics n Retractable seating so that the hall can be used for a variety of events n Bar area and catering facilities n A stunning full-height glass wall in the hall, which makes the most of the building’s position in one of the most beautiful parts of the school site MUSIC SCHOOL n A recital hall with capacity for 150 people n More than 20 practice rooms and classrooms n A smaller performance room, IT suite and recording and performance booths n The music school will be linked to the school hall by a bridge through a stunning atrium, which will flow into the new courtyard outside

H

eadmistress Samantha Price formally began the demolition of the existing hall, signalling the start of the most ambitious construction project in the school’s 96-year history.

Benenden has outgrown the current hall, which was built in 1938 when the school comprised 200 pupils. Benenden now numbers 550 girls, with 300 staff. It will be replaced by a spectacular new school hall and state-of-the-art music school.

The project is scheduled to be completed in late 2020 and is the flagship investment of the school’s Centenary Vision, a programme of enhancements to Benenden’s curriculum and facilities ahead of its centenary in 2023.

Ms Price said: “Today marks a significant day in Benenden’s history. The hall and music school are at the very heart of school life and this redevelopment will dramatically enhance the experience of each and every Benenden girl for generations to come.

“We are equally pleased that, through our multi-purpose new hall, we will be establishing one of the foremost concert halls in the South East, which will be available for use by the community.”

Clockwise from left: Buxton project manager John Burgess, school captain Caitlin Gluckstein, Headmistress Samantha Price, Buxton contracts manager David Bean and Benenden’s director of estates Fred Davies

Benenden’s head girl, 17-year-old Freddie Flintoff, said: “The girls are incredibly excited by the prospect of these new facilities and we are all in the hall every day so it’s a really important space to us.

“The designs for the new building look amazing – it’s just a shame that I’ll have left the school by the time they’re built but I’ll definitely be coming back to see them!”

The demolition of the existing hall and music school buildings is due to be completed during the Easter holidays, with construction work beginning in May. The project has been designed by

the multi award-winning Guy Hollaway Architects and the main building contractor is Buxton Building Contractors Ltd, while seven other companies have responsibility for elements of the project.

The project has been funded through sensible borrowing, school reserves and fundraising revenue.

Underpinning the exciting curriculum and co-curricular developments at Benenden, which include the introduction of the Benenden Diploma for Years§ 7 and 8, the Professional Skills Programme for the Sixth Form and a vast expansion of our outdoor education and partnership programmes, a series of capital projects are being undertaken as part of the Centenary Vision.

The first phase of these – the construction of an all-weather pitch and pavilion and eight staff houses – has been delivered and these were opened in September 2016.

The final event in the hall was a whole school service on February 14, the day before the start of half-term. Following a final rendition of the school hymn, all the pupils and staff processed outside to hear the school chaplain bid a final farewell to the building, before two prefects closed the hall doors for the last time.

After the service, many of the girls took the chance to touch the brickwork as a poignant farewell!

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 69

EDUCATION ADVERTORIAL

Positive results for

testing times

this information regularly with parents) and establish a culture of intervention so that rates of progress keep pace with potential.

The most important elements of the 11+ are the core skills of literacy and numeracy and so, in short, there is no substitute for outstanding curriculum teaching. In this respect we are blessed with a very talented and knowledgeable staff.

Nevertheless, to return to my earlier point, happy and rounded children perform best in all spheres, be it an exam hall, science lab or drama studio. I would argue, therefore, that our holistic curriculum, including sport, drama, music, STEAM and art and design, does as much to fuel our levels of 11+ success as the excellent core subject teaching. If children are inspired and excited as they walk through the school gates, passing exams comes rather easily.

www.themeadschool.co.uk

DEPUTY HEAD, KENT COLLEGE PEMBURY

The 11+ exam is ingrained into the fabric of our local community. It’s guaranteed to be on most dinner party agendas and a whole industry (private tutoring) is geared towards it. Our preparation is as emotional as it is academic. At The Mead, we like to talk about the 11+ as an exit exam rather than an entrance exam. A rite of passage which all Meadites should be able to access in an attempt to show what they have learned. We talk to the children about not allowing the result to define you, whether it’s a pass or not, and instead see it as another indicator of progress as they continue on a lifelong journey of improvement. We believe strongly that exam candidates with this growth mindset will always outperform those who fear failure.

The academic preparation for the exam is long term and subtle. We do not cram in Year Five. Instead, we track the children carefully from their infant years onwards (sharing

JAMES MOSSMAN

ANDREW WEBSTER HEADMASTER, THE MEAD SCHOOL

As exam season approaches we asked two local schools which tips and techniques they provide their pupils with to ensure academic success – whilst also considering exam pressure and their mental wellbeing Exams are stressful. There’s no point denying it. We might try to soften the blow but anyone who has sat an exam knows that it is make or break time. Exams are one of the bottlenecks of life. However, surely we are presented with an obvious choice. Option one is to try really hard and get the best result you possibly can. Option two is to not really bother and as a result underperform. But of course it is not so simple, human nature gets in the way. We don’t always do what we know to be the best thing for us.

The classical Greeks were the first to identify this phenomenon, with Plato and Aristotle both being interested in our tendency to show a lack of self-command or akrasia. We know that ninth piece of cake will make us fat but hey, why not? We need to start revising a month before our exam, but procrastination seems easier. Why? Well revision can be boring: the task can seem insurmountable. Some topics still seem challenging so the internet beckons…

We are also very good at lying to ourselves by saying things like: “Just one more episode of this series on Netflix to relax my mind before starting work” or “I need to make my room really tidy before I can think of revising” or “I revised for 30 minutes this morning – am I not the most virtuous student alive so I should go out as a reward?”

Such excuses are, I am sure, familiar to many. We might lie

to ourselves but it is hard to fool ourselves. So how to beat this?

Firstly recognise the challenge of revision and own it. There are no short cuts and modern exams really do require a lot of revision, and yes it can be boring at times. Remember that the exam season is for a short time only and there is much to look forward to once they are over.

Getting started, it can seem tempting to begin with the easiest topics. There is, however, a risk that you will give the most time to the things that you can already do. A good challenge is to start with a topic that you really don’t like. You will feel like you have made real progress that way.

Remember that every subject covers a range of different topics, so try naturally breaking it into manageable chunks for revision that are not so intimidating. Topics, in turn, can be broken down. Try giving yourself clear ‘if … then’ rewards for each small unit of study.

For instance, ‘if I can learn two poems, then I can go to the movies this evening’. This also gives the benefit of genuinely allowing you to relax without guilt.

Finally get rid of the distractions – your phone is the ultimate procrastination tool.

Exams are not fun, but remember that it will all be over soon and you will have earned an amazing summer holiday. Good luck. www.kentcollege. co. uk

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 71

ADVERTORIAL

Travel

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xplore Doha’s sensuous souks, Bahrain’s magnificent mosques, Abu Dhabi’s awe-inspiring beaches and the sensational wildlife of Sir Bani Yas. Be blown away by the superb entertainment on board the ship, plus exquisite cuisine, first-class facilities – not to mention posting updates on your incredible holiday to the envy of all of your friends back home with Royal Caribbean’s high-speed VOOM Surf Internet at sea.

Then top it all off with a thrilling two-night stay in Dubai, taking in the eye-popping views from the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper.

Give in to temptation in Dubai’s glittering malls, tour the mind-blowing theme parks or watch falcons swooping over the desert dunes.

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You’ll start your adventure in Dubai: from jaw-dropping skyscrapers and luxury cars to spice-filled souks and camel rides, be dazzled by Dubai’s exotic blend of old and new. Go off-piste in the huge indoor ski park, enjoy an Arabian adventure in the mysterious desert, or indulge in the glamorous shopping malls. If you dare, take in breath-taking views from the Burj Khalifa skyscraper, or soak up Dubai’s sunkissed beaches and jewelled seas.

Relax with a day at sea on board Jewel of the Seas

Sit back, kick off your shoes and put your feet up during our ‘at sea’ days, where you can chill in the bar, lounge by the pool or enjoy a relaxing beauty treatment in the spa. Or if you’re feeling energetic, now’s the chance to explore all the amazing activities the ship has to offer, from spectacular, West-End-style entertainment to adrenalin-charged sports.

Doha, Qatar

Arabian horses, hooded falcons, the heady smell of incense in the souq – Qatar is an adventure in the exotic. Be wowed

by Doha’s futuristic skyline along the waterfront Corniche, watching dhows bobbing on the water and families out for a stroll. Marvel at the exquisite treasures in the Museum of Islamic Art or head out of the city for sizzling sunsets over desert sands.

Bahrain, Bahrain

Haggle for pearls, perfumes and spices in the colourful Bab al-Bahrain bazaar. Be transfixed by the exquisite interiors at Al Fateh Mosque or delve into ancient Dilmun history at the Bahrain National Museum. Bahrain Fort will take your breath away with its night-time illuminations while the Formula One racetrack and Al Dar Island beach will tempt you with pleasures of a modern kind.

Sir Bani Yas, United Arab Emirates

Come face to face with cheetahs, giraffes, ostriches and oryx on this serene and unspoilt island, established as a sanctuary for Arabia’s endangered wildlife by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Snorkel in shimmering blue waters, kayak in the mangroves or mountain bike in the wadis for an away-from-itall adventure.You can see the remains of a Christian monastery too.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Sand skiing, dune bashing and camel rides are some of the desert adventures on offer in amazing Abu Dhabi, where futuristic skyscrapers sit alongside mosques, museums and bazaars.

Visit a falcon hospital, enjoy the world’s largest indoor theme park at Ferrari World or take high tea in an opulent hotel. Marvel at the largest Persian carpet in the world at the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Sail back to Dubai for two luxurious nights in Dubai Jumeirah Beach

Located on ‘The Walk’, Dubai’s popular beachfront promenade of boutiques, restaurants and contemporary Arabic culture, the property offers a stylish retreat in the heart of the Dubai Marina. It is the perfect base from which to explore all that Dubai has to offer.

Choose from a selection of rooms and suites overlooking the pristine white sands of the Persian Gulf shoreline or the iconic architecture of the Dubai Marina. Bask in the sun on the resort’s private beach, enjoy sailing, snorkeling, waterskiing or windsurfing from the water sports centre, or take a swim in the refreshing temperature-controlled pool.

Awaken your senses and revitalise your spirit at the resort spa, with a full range of body treatments available. Stay fit in the adjacent health club, offering 400 square metres of strength and cardio equipment and separate male and female steam rooms and saunas.

And what’s more, we’ll treat you to a thrilling excursion to the top of the Burj Khalifa, the

most outstanding architectural wonder of the modern world. This impressive building is said to be the highest in the world at 828 metres (2,716ft), and offers spectacular 360-degree views over the city.

Enjoy a one-hour expedition inside the Burj Khalifa, and ascend to the 124th floor in the third fastest elevator in the world! Once up there, you will be impressed with the birds-eye views of the city that “At the Top” offers, which will take your breath away at daytime or night-time.

Feast your eyes with a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, the golden desert and the Persian Gulf, and capture forever this moment with your camera.

What´s more, this majestic steel structure houses the largest shopping centre in the world, The Dubai Mall, on the ground floor.

The mall itself has some amazing features, and also includes one of the largest aquariums in the world.

So, what are you waiting for? Come and join us on our incredible Dubai Cruise and Stay holiday.

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 73

DREAM DESTINATIONS

Where to eat?

La Quinta

It’s probably worth visiting Seville just to eat here. Based in an Andalusian mansion house, the restaurant offers modern twists on local specialities, with highlights including croquettes filled with local cheese, Iberico ham and prawns, and Iberico pork cheeks slow-cooked and served with a rich and sweet Pedro Ximenez sherry glaze.

Mains from €10.50 (£9); glass of wine from €3 (£2.50). Visit grupopanot.com

Tapas bar La Azotea Buzzy but relaxed, this modern restaurant has a mix of tapas and larger dishes, all with an emphasis on fresh produce; fish are shown to diners for approval before cooking.

Go for the Spanish tomatoes with tuna belly, then a dessert made from local oranges.

Tapas from €4 (£3.50); beer from €1.60 (£1.40). Visit laazoteasevilla.com/en/

Where to stay?

Hotel Inglaterra

AN ANDALUSIAN

adventure

Spring is the perfect time to take a weekend break. Laura Paterson finds out why the Spanish city of Seville, which has also been the cinematic backdrop to plenty of films, is worth squeezing into your travels

H

aving taken six attempts to pass my driving test, letting me loose on a Segway near main roads in a European city is perhaps ill-advised. But speeding around on two wheels proves to be a novel way to see the sights in the Andalusian capital Seville, in the south of Spain.

Our tour starts in the lush Maria Luisa Park, and after getting to grips with balance, thanks to some patient teaching from the instructors, our group is zipping around the Plaza de Espana on the futuristic devices.

The landmark is no stranger to spaceage visitors, having featured in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, in a scene when Anakin and Padme arrive on the planet Naboo. In fact, many of the city’s historic landmarks pop up in films, with the five-star Alfonso XIII Hotel – which counts royals including Princess Diana amongst its former guests – appearing in 1962 epic Lawrence Of Arabia, and hit Netflix series The Crown.

Elsewhere, the orange groves, peaceful pools and idyllic gardens of the Real Alcazar double up as the Kingdom of Dorne in Game Of Thrones. Home to the royal family since the 10th Century, this World Heritage Site was partially built by a Christian king at a time of harmony among Christian, Jewish and Muslim people; quotations from the Koran mix with Christian symbols in the beautiful mosaics.

As we head across the Guadalquivir River to Triana – proudly known to some residents as the Independent Republic of Triana – I hit the heady Segway heights of 18kmph.

Originally a working-class neighbourhood packed with ceramic factories, it has become fashionable in recent years, but has a dark past as the headquarters of the Spanish Inquisition.

Our Segway tour ends near the Plaza Nueva, a palm-shaded square filled with the scent of jasmine. It’s almost in sight of Seville Cathedral, the third largest church in the world and home to a tomb of Christopher Columbus, containing just 150g of his body. Even more bizarre is a wooden crocodile hanging outside the cathedral; it’s a replica of the live animal sent by an Egyptian sultan in a bid to woo a princess in the 13th century.

After failing to win her heart, it was strung up after living out its days in the palace.

We finish our journey at the city hall, where a meeting with the mayor reveals that another Hollywood actor may currently be filming in town.

Sadly, I fail to set eyes on Javier Bardem, but I’ve already clocked up enough A-list sights to fill more than just one blockbuster.

On the edge of the Plaza Nueva in the heart of the old city, this hotel is minutes from key sights, including the palace and cathedral – which can be seen from the upmarket roof terrace. Built in 1857, the design is opulent and traditional, with mirrors, dark wood and swathes of marble offsetting the pale blue and yellow decor. Double rooms from £78 on a bed and breakfast basis.

Visit hotelinglaterra.es/en/

What to do?

Take a selfie at Las Setas The world’s largest wooden structure is a futuristic vision among the shops and cafés of Seville city centre. It’s officially known as Metropol Parasol, but most people refer to it fondly as Las Setas (the mushrooms). Walking on top of the 28.5m-high sculpture offers great views while below, the Antiquarium archaeological museum tells the city’s history.

Las Setas entry €3 (£2.50); Antiquarium entry €2 (£1.70). Visit setasdesevilla.com and antiquarium.icas-sevilla.org

Feel empassioned by a flamenco show Shaped by various cultures passing through Andalucia over the past 3,000 years, and used to commemorate persecution of minorities, flamenco is the heart and soul of Seville. Castanets came from the ancient Phoenicians, guitars were brought over from the Middle East, and hand gestures owe their origin to the Roma gypsies making their centuries-long journey from India to Europe. Learning the complex steps and hand movements reputedly takes 10,000 hours to master, so those hoping to appear on Strictly after one lesson can think again. Instead, go to a show. Museo del Baile Flamenco, the world’s only flamenco museum, has a nightly performance.

Adult ticket to the museum and show, €26.

Visit museodelbaileflamenco.com/en/

Zoom around the sights on a Segway Segways are permitted on Seville’s many cycle lanes, making them an ideal means of zipping about and and covering more ground than you would on foot. Cyclotour guides will whisk you around the main sites, stopping regularly to give a local perspective on the city.

Segway tours (30 min) from €17 (£14.50).

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 75

Driving Ambition

Section MOTORS

TALKING ITALIAN . . .

Andrea Baldi, CEO of EMEA Region Automobili Lamborghini, tells SO Magazine all about the Italian car company’s latest Urus model, which is simply out of this world . . .

PLEASE CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE NEW URUS MODEL?

The Lamborghini Urus is the result of a visionary approach based on the infusion of Lamborghini super sports DNA into the most versatile vehicle, the SUV. The Urus elevates the SUV to a level not previously possible, the Super SUV. It is a true Lamborghini in terms of design, performance, driving dynamics and emotion. A real Lamborghini for everyday use with family and friends, a car with different souls yet always distinctive through Lamborghini design and technology.

WHEN DID IT LAUNCH AND HOW MANY HAVE BEEN SOLD WORLDWIDE?

Since the announcement of the new Super SUV in December 2017, and its public unveiling at Geneva Motor Show in 2018, we have collected orders

worldwide that fill over 12 months’ production. In 2018 we delivered more than 1,700 units to the first clients worldwide. We are also very pleased that over 70 per cent of orders received are from customers entirely new to the Lamborghini brand.

WHAT ARE THE SPECIFICATIONS THAT MAKE IT UNIQUE?

The Urus accelerates from 0 to 62mph in 3.6 seconds and, with a top speed of 190mph, was launched as the fastest SUV available. It retails in the UK from £165,000 on the road, and it features a 4.0 litre V8 twin-turbo engine delivering 650hp (478 kW) at 6,000rpm, maximum 6,800rpm, and 850Nm of maximum torque already at 2,250rpm. With 162.7hp/l the Urus has one of the highest specific power outputs in its class and the best weight-to-power ratio at 3.38kg/hp.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE IT TO DRIVE AND DOES IT WORK ON A VARIETY OF TERRAINS?

To drive the Urus is a combination of remarkable luxury for all occupants and the dynamism and handling of a super sports car as required. The Urus features a number of different drive modes: Strada, or ‘street’, for comfortable everyday driving around town, Sport for a more fun drive with agile handling and dynamic behaviour, and Corsa, or ‘race’, for ultimate performance in high performance environments, even on the race track. With the off-road option, ‘Sabbia’ for sand, ‘Terra’ for off-road and ‘Neve’ for

snow, it provides specific driving modes to address every type of terrain. Whichever mode, the power, performance and handling of the Urus reminds the driver that this is a Lamborghini.

WHO IS THIS CAR IDEAL FOR?

The Urus Super SUV is for drivers who enjoy the Lamborghini brand but also want a car that can accommodate them, their family or business colleagues in comfort. Many women and a range of age-groups are also very interested in Urus.

Depending on the specification, the Urus can appear as sporty or as elegant as the owner wishes.

SO Magazine | APRIL 2019 | 77

McLAREN 720S SPIDER

WHAT IS IT?

As great British automotive success stories go, they don’t get much better than McLaren’s. In little more than nine years, the firm has accelerated from generating ‘just’ £6million a year in revenue from its car business to these days racking up more than £800million annually. That meteoric rise has been largely thanks to its core super series range, which the 720S Spider joins as the latest member.

Launched in 2010 as the MP412C – taking on the Ferrari 458 head on – the core of McLaren’s supercar range has evolved into the incredibly accomplished car you see here.

WHAT’S NEW?

With a clever folding roof, designed to collapse in one gracious movement in just 11 seconds, the 720S Spider lets owners drop the lid at speeds of up to 31mph. It’s a stunning design that once lowered – an action that takes place in near silence – allows the exhaust note to fill the cabin. And when the roof’s up, it has another trick up its sleeve: An optional electrochromic glass panel can be specified that rapidly changes between tinted and transparent at the touch of a button, letting drivers enjoy the skyline even with the comfort of the roof in place.

To further aid the design, McLaren 78 | APRIL 2019 | SO Magazine

has created the flying buttresses – those aerodynamic wings that extend out behind the rollover bars – from glass, which not only look stunning but also increase visibility when the driver looks over his or her shoulder.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? McLaren’s tried-and-tested 4.0-litre twin turbo-charged V8 produces 710bhp and 770Nm of torque. Those heady figures are enough to propel it to 60mph in 2.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 212mph with the roof shut and 202mph with it down.

The addition of the roof, despite the extra 49kHg on the overall kerb weight, has had little effect on performance.

The Spider will still hit 124mph in just 7.9 seconds, a 0.1 second blink of an eye less than the Coupe. A standing quarter-mile is completed in 10.4 seconds – again, just 0.1 seconds slower than its hard-top equivalent.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Importantly, the removal of the roof hasn’t compromised handling. Thanks to the same carbon tub from the Coupe used here – the Spider was developed alongside its hard-top sibling from the start – there’s no discernible difference in rigidity. It rides superbly, soaking up even the nastiest of bumps on our Arizona test drive.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Road Test

Section MOTORS

Model as tested: McLaren 720S Spider Price as tested: £246,990 Engine: 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 Power: 720ps (710bhp) @ 7,250 rpm Torque: 770Nm (568lb-ft) @ 5,500 rpm Max speed: 341kph (212mph) 0-60mph: 2.8 sec MPG: 23.2 Emissions: 276g/km

James Baggott test-pilots the new McLaren 720S Spider – a drop-top version of the firm’s accomplished supercar

On the road the 720S is an accomplished supercar. The sevenspeed automatic gearbox shifts cogs in milliseconds and is an absolute joy to use in manual mode. The carbon paddles are mounted on a rocker, a pull on the right lever depressing the left, and vice versa. F1 technology has been used to cut the ignition spark to improve shift changes too, which is especially noticeable on down shifts.

Several drive modes can be selected, depending on your mood, with gear shift, steering, transmission and electronic safety nets all modified to suit. Comfort, sports or track options can be selected that dramatically alter the car’s behaviour.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

With those dramatic glass flying buttresses, stunning frameless dihedral doors and active rear spoiler, the 720S Spider looks every bit the supercar.

McLaren engineers have focused on form going hand in hand with function as regards the design. Sculpted around the air intakes that cool the engine and brakes, it’s purposeful and visually arresting. Pedestrians stop, gawping as it rolls past like something that’s come from outer space.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

It feels like there’s a little less room inside the cabin. Taller people might find themselves cramped in both the driver and passenger seats. The multiadjustable seats just don’t seem to

have enough adjustment to get truly comfortable. That said, the cabin is a plush place to spend time.

There’s a choice of four leather interiors, with a leather steering wheel, eight-inch infotainment system and a cool folding digital driver display that tucks away to reveal just a rev counter when ‘track’ mode is selected from the dynamics panel. The latter offers multiadjustment of the driver aids, turning the 720S Spider from comfortable cruiser into rabid race car at the twist of a dial.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Those jaw-dropping doors, LED headlights, twin stainless-steel exhaust and five-spoke alloy wheels all come as standard. Other highlights included are dynamic stability control, dualzone air con and keyless entry. There’s plenty to choose from the options list, though, like that electrochromic roof at a whopping £7,500, special Aztec Gold paint (£4,330), carbon seat backs (£3,280), Bowers & Wilkins audio system (£3,640) and the potential to spend many thousands more on optional carbon-fibre extras. It all depends how deep your pockets are.

VERDICT

There’s little doubt how important the super series range has been to McLaren and its current crown bearer is an incredible machine. The 720S is bonecrushingly quick and simply more than you’ll ever need on the road.

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SO Magazine | April 2019 | 79

LIFE & STYLE

80 | April 2019 | SO Magazine

LIFE & STYLE

SO Magazine | April 2019 | 81

THE LAST WORD

Paul Merton’s Impro Chums comedy show comes to the Assembly Hall theatre on April 8.

Here he tells Brian Donaldson what the audience can enjoy most about this evening of inspiring improvisation

Talk

of

the

town

Has he got news for you!

I’m really looking forward to playing the Assembly Hall. We always have a great time there. Ian Hislop has been known to come along to see the show on occasion – he’s always the one who starts the heckling!

What would you say are the main differences between putting together a written show and performing a show that’s entirely improvised?

The difference between this and a written show is that the latter takes a lot of pre-thought and hard work, and if you’ve got a bit that doesn’t work, you think ‘how am I going to fix that?’ With impro, there are no bits to worry about because they don’t exist yet. In written pieces, if there’s a very funny line that always gets a big laugh you’ve got to try and get that same laugh every night while making it sound like you’ve never said it before, so there are different sets of challenges.

Is there any kind of preparation you can do before you go on stage?

For me, the preparation is having done it for 30 years. That loosens you a bit and it reminds us when

82 | APRIL 2019 | SO Magazine

we’re playing a larger venue to not talk so quickly at first. Don’t be slow but be clear. Be pacy but not too quick.

Do you ever analyse what’s happened during an Impro Chums show or is it a case of once it’s done, you just forget about it?

The danger with doing the same games every time is that you can fall into a pattern about how you play them and you want to avoid that as much as possible. On tour, we mix up which games we do and who’s doing which games.

Because it’s not something you have to remember, then you just don’t. You don’t even send a conscious command of ‘brain-wipedelete’. It all just goes.

tune just happen and it sounds like the showstopper of the year!

What do you enjoy about coming to Tunbridge Wells?

I’m really looking forward to playing the Assembly Hall. We always have a great time there.

Ian Hislop has been known to come along to see the show on occasion – he’s always the one who starts the heckling!

Photos by Dean Chalkley

P

aul Merton has been at the forefront of the UK improvisation scene across four decades. Having appeared in the first ever episode of Whose Line is it Anyway? on Channel 4 in 1988, and as a founder member of the legendary Comedy Store Players, he went on to create Paul Merton’s Impro Chums, who have starred at several Edinburgh Fringes and taken their adlibbing ways on tour across Britain to great acclaim.

The longstanding line-up of Paul, Mike McShane, Suki Webster, Richard Vranch and Lee Simpson, has been added to in the shape of keyboard player Kirsty Newton. As the group visit Tunbridge Wells as part of their national tour, Paul discusses the explosion of new improvisation acts, the pleasures of getting around the country on a luxury bus, and whether any preparation is possible for an improvised show.

What are the pros and cons of touring?

Having a bus means that we can get back to London and go to sleep in your own bed, so that saves on hotel bills. When you’re doing all these dates, you want to cut down on stress as much as possible, such as constantly waking up in hotel rooms and wondering what city you’re in and really missing home. So if you can get home, even if it’s two or three in the morning, it’s still more preferable to hotel rooms.

What are the particular musical challenges to the show?

The audience love the musical bits and when Mike and Suki are singing in film and theatre styles and there’s a musical number or Gilbert & Sullivan, the audience love it. It’s a real crowd-pleasing element.

To be able to play music is an ability and a gift that a lot of people don’t have and they admire it even more than just the verbal stuff: the lyrics and the

Paul Merton brings his Impro Chums to the Assembly Hall on Monday (April 8) at 8pm.

Tickets cost £25.75. To book visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

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