Connect Lifestyle-Issue 51-September 2018

- Listowel Gets Ready for Race Week The lifestyle magazine for Kerry

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Aoibhín

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EDITOR NOTE Hi Everyone, It’s time to get back to normal, school has resumed, late nights playing in the garden are limited to weekends and in general we are all back to routine, but the fun and frolics haven’t stopped here in Kerry, this month it’s off to Listowel for the ever popular Harvest Racing Festival. It’s a tradition in Kerry now really, the summer is not officially over until you have spent a day at Listowel Races and brought Sam Maguire back to the Kingdom in September! So while we won’t be welcoming Sam Maguire, we are really looking forward to Listowel. As always the McElligotts Honda Ladies Day on Friday the 14th is another popular day in the events calendar in Kerry, we took a trip around Listowel and checked out what’s on offer in this vibrant town finishing off the day with a fabulous photoshoot in the wonderful Butler Centre featuring some of the race and occasion looks available in the town. We also have tickets to giveaway for the races so don’t forget to email or click on social media for a chance to be at the races.

We chat to Aoibhín Garrihy on life with the new arrival in the house and her trip to Listowel and we are delighted to talk to style queens in the county Carol Kennelly and Tina Griffin on how they got to where they are today while doing what they love so much.

We have a great wedding feature with lots of tips and ideas for those thinking of getting married, so we hope that if you are planning your big day you will get some ideas from this. We also have some recent weddings in the county and wish all our brides and grooms featured the best of luck for the future, and of course we have a selection of all the fun from the Rose of Tralee International Festival.

Until next month

Mags x Editor: Margaret Kissane Design: Laura Hartnett Design Print: Kingdom Printers Photography: John Walsh Photography 066 7123777 Email: info@johnwalsh.ie | www.johnwalsh.ie Contributors: Marcas Mac Domhnaill, John Canty, Ken Tobin, Marisa Reidy, Caroline McEnery Caroline Smith, Zoe O Connor, Catherine Keane, Mary Lucey, Eileen Lane, Lisa Curran.

Beauty Editor: Romy Birdthistle For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: info@connectpublications.ie Website: www.connectpublications.ie Connect Kerry | September 2018 | 3

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Aoibhín overjoyed with her New Arrival

By Marisa Reidy SHE’S beautiful, multi-talented and has a work ethic that few could compete with, and now TV star Aoibhín Garrihy has taken on the ultimate role – that of new mum to beautiful daughter Hanorah.

Less than two months after giving birth to her first baby, the former Fair City actress says she is loving being a mom, telling CONNECT that she and husband John Burke are over the moon with their new arrival.

“Of course the arrival of a newborn is a huge change and it takes getting used to, but we’ve been blessed with a content little girl who seems to be sleeping and eating well so far - so what more can we ask for at this early stage?” she said. “Our two French Mastiff’s are not adapting quite so well though - Reggie’s nose is a little out of joint but he’ll get there.”

Aoibhín is probably best known by Fair City fans for her role as Neasa Dillon – a role she loved for many years before leaving the hit soap to pursue other career options. Acting, however, was always a priority in school and throughout college, she explained.

“I trained in theatre in Trinity College. I did the Bachelor in Acting Studies there for three years and my heart was set on a career in performance. Theatre was my passion, but I went on to learn a lot about the world of television when I played the part of Neasa in Fair City,” she explained.

“I loved my time in Fair City, it was a real training ground for me and really helped me to hone my craft and you learn to work very hard very fast."

Since then, Aoibhín says her career has taken lots of twists and turns and while acting will always be a love of hers, she has decided to explore lots of other areas of the TV, media and business world which she says have really ‘tickled her fancy’.

“I decided to explore other avenues career wise and I also fell in love with a man in the west, so it was time to bid Neasa adieu and explore lots of other areas,” she told CONNECT. “I think if you stay open minded in life you never know what might land on your lap and I have been blessed with some of the opportunities I have been given.”

One such opportunity, of course, was taking part in the first series of RTE’s Dancing With The Stars – which saw her make it to the final with dance partner Vitali Kzmin (ultimately losing out to our own Aidan OMahony) The experience, Aoibhín says, is one she will never forget and something she will always remember with great pride.

“I absolutely loved my stint on Dancing with the Stars. It was one of the most amazing things I’ve ever done. I look back on some of those dances and think “was that really me?,” she says.

“I couldn’t remember a step now if you paid me but it was incredible to get to that standard that fast. I had a wonderful 4 | Connect Kerry | September 2018

teacher in Vitali and we worked very hard. The whole production on that show is incredible and I felt very proud to make it to the final.”

Anyone who knows Aoibhín or follows her on social media knows that health and fitness is hugely important to her, and she admits that her health and wellness has become a massive priority the older she gets.

“You realise the importance of self-care and now with a little person in tow I realise it even more. There is a quote I live by...

“Self-care is never selfish...you cannot serve from an empty vessel” and it’s so true,” she said. “If I’m not feeling good, I won’t be in the headspace to look after my baby, be there for my husband and family, tend to my dog etc so I think getting some fresh air every day is my therapy. I live in the West of Ireland so having the sea and the countryside on my doorstep is a blessing. I try to swim in the sea, kayak, walk or hike most days.”

Her commitment to health and wellness, however, came in for some criticism earlier this year, when she posted a picture of herself and her hubby at the top of Carrauntoohil while seven months pregnant. Being in the public eye, however, has taught Aoibhín how to handle such criticism, she says.

“Social media is a wonderful place for information and I gained so much knowledge from other mum’s pages online throughout pregnancy and there is certainly a really active, supportive community online - so if I’m going to take the good, I have to be prepared for some bad too I guess,” Aoibhín said. “It’s funny, pregnancy is certainly an area people have very strong opinions on and I only discovered that when I was living it myself. I know my body and I know what works for me and my baby and I think if you go with your gut on things that really only concern

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you, the rest doesn’t really matter. I tend to throw it over the shoulder.”

And with so many social media followers all keeping an eye on her every move, we wondered if Aoibhín felt any pressure to get back to her pre-baby body straight away.

Interestingly, she is very much looking forward to getting back in shape – but not to please anyone else, just herself!

“I don’t feel a pressure, but I am certainly looking forward to feeling more like myself in time,” she admits. “I love fashion and so nothing makes me more excited than feeling good in an ensemble. I’m not quite there yet and I’m breastfeeding so I’m feeling a lot hungrier than usual. I’ve been moving my body as normal during and after pregnancy so that hasn’t changed and in the coming weeks when we’ve found our groove I’ll hopefully up the ante in terms of fitness a little.”

And for anyone thinking new mum Aiobhín is enjoying a relaxing maternity leave – that’s not quite the case in the Burke/ Garrihy household.

“As a freelancer, maternity leave doesn’t really happen. I was back recording a voiceover two weeks after Hanorah arrived and shooting a campaign three weeks after she arrived but it’s not 9-5 and so it’s manageable,” she tells CONNECT. “I’m a Gemini and so I love to stay busy and keep multiple irons in the fire. It’s when I’m happiest, but time with Hanorah, John and our two fur babies is just the best.

We took a trip to Ardmore recently and made the best memories as a family.”

Among the more pressing engagements planned for Aoibhín is the very important job of judging Ladies Day at Listowel Races

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later this month – and listen up ladies, because she’s giving CONNECT readers the inside scoop on what she’s looking for!

“The Kerry ladies are a seriously stylish bunch. We hosted BEO, our health and wellness event in The Great Southern Hotel, Killarney recently and I could not get over the style,” she said.

“I think on Ladies Day, it being towards the end of a very busy race season, I will be looking for something a little different. While the style has been amazing this season, there has been a lot of the same and I want something to really catch my eye but with a touch of timeless elegance.”

You have been warned ladies!!

So what’s next for Aiobhín career wise?

A lot of her attention will focus on the aforementioned BEO – Ireland’s newest and most dynamic wellness event promoting self-care for mind, body and soul. The brainchild of Aoibhín and Sharon Connellan, the event features a host of inspiring presentations from Ireland’s leading wellness experts over a healthy brunch.

“I have a busy Autumn up ahead,” Aoibhín revealed. “Our health and wellness events, BEO, which we launched this time last year, are back for another series visiting our 10th county this October. It’s amazing to have hosted so many women in such a short space of time. I also have some very exciting campaigns in the pipeline and am looking forward to juggling work life as a new mum.”

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LISTOWEL ... Your one stop shopping destination and the place to be for Race Week The Race is on ... to the Listowel Racing Munster’s biggest and Committee have organised best racing festival - the an extensive range of free entertainment, including 7 day Listowel Harvest the Kerry Group family Day; daily race card draws Racing Festival, runs from with cash prizes, promotions, music and more.

Sunday 9th to Saturday 15th of September. This year Listowel Race Company Making a welcome return for the third year on is celebrating 160 years of racing Ladies Day is the Listowel Races double decker bus. at the scenic course, making it With the promise to “Save your heels - we have got one of the longest established wheels” the Listowel Bus is free and will depart from race meetings in Ireland today.

12 noon, every half hour from the town Square. There Fashionable racers of all ages will also be music and bubbles on board the bus, with can look forward to three days ticket giveaways and prizes. The brainchild of David of Best Dressed competitions, Fitzmaurice, Director & former Chairman of Listowel including dedicated categories Racing Company, the bus will bring racegoers in for gentlemen, ladies, younger comfort and style to Ladies Day. racers, vintage lovers, couples, the ..........................................................

Aoibhín Garrihy and Mariet most Stylish Selfie and the Best ta Dolan Dressed Stable Groom! The fashion Listowel as always has lots to offer during Listowel Race highlight of the week is the McElligott’s Honda Ladies Week and indeed every day so we took a little trip around to see Day on Friday 14th of September judged by actress and media personality Aoibhín Garrihy assisted by fashion stylist and TV whats available.

“Save your heels - we have got wheels”

We popped in to see Jennifer in CoCo Boutique which has an amazing collection for the upcoming season.

Vibrant colors, comfy casuals and an amazing collection just in time for Race Day. You will definitely be part of the action in the champagne tent in an outfit from CoCo! Fee gee have a startling Autumn collection to choose from, the vibrant colours and classy styles are divine. The Amy Huberman collection of shoes and boots arriving for the autumn definitely makes the transformation from sandals and flip flops all that more bearable.. Check out for yourself you will not be disappointed. ................................................................

At the launch of McElligotts Honda Ladies Day were from left: Brenda Daly, Secratary Manager, Listowel Race Company, Jennifer Moran, Honda Ireland, John Galvin, Chairman, Listowel Race Company, Caitrin Griffin, McElligots Tralee, Aoibhín Garrihy (in car), Donal Lynch, GM, McElligotts Tralee and Marietta Doran, assistant judge.

Mary in Chic Boutique also has amazing collections arriving daily and is the ideal stop for any occasion. Mary will personally guarantee you her undivided attention to choose the outfit that best suits you.

personality Marietta Doran. The overall McElligotts Honda Best Dressed Lady will win a Honda Civic for a year and €3,000 in cash, with further cash prizes of €3,500 to be won on the day. The popular Best Dressed Man Competition, sponsored by Emerald Properties, Construction & Property Rentals, Listowel, is on Thursday 13th. The Listowel Tidy Town / An Taisce Best Presentation of an Up cycled/ Re-styled or Authentic Vintage Outfit is on the closing day of the festival, Saturday 15th of September and judged

by Kerry fashionista Orlagh Winters and Rachel Geary from An Taisce. As always, y hda birt Grace Madden with a special 160th es in addition to top quality Rac l owe List ting cake celebra nda Daly National Hunt and Flat racing, year with John Galvin and Bre

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In McGuire’s Pharmacy things are hotting up for race week and the girls are cleaning down the makeup brushes to prepare for the many makeovers they are going to complete for race week. I love walking through this shop it’s got everything you could wish for and is bright and spacious and you come out looking and feeling beautiful. ................................................................

Blossom Boutique ... award winning boutique with an award winning team there to greet you.

Owner Nuala and her bubbly assistant Helena have the right formula for shopping for style, comfort, casual and occasion wear. Based on market street this shop has it all! Are you getting married? If so it’s the ideal stop to stock the wardrobe for those many occasions we have on the lead up to the big day, lots of lovely colors and styles wearable for any occasion, it’s a must on your trip to listowel. ................................................................

Finesse Bridal ... another award winning family combination here, Liz and Mags having been dressing brides for many years now, there is nothing these two ladies don’t know about the perfect wedding dress and they will go beyond the limit to ensure your look is the one you want for your special day. ................................................................

Just up the road we paid a visit to Doran’s Pharmacy, newly opened it really has brought light and life to the street corner its situated on, catering for all your pharmacy needs the team will look after you, lots of lovely beauty products, but also a huge collection of pharmacy needs to ensure you stay healthy. They also provide advice from the experts on their many hosting days where the experts are on hand to give you advice on your health needs. ................................................................

Aoife Hannon Milliner ... has recently opened a Pop up Hat Shop until Ladies Day of Listowel Races. Aoife feels so lucky to have the use of this beautiful historic building in the center of Listowel with its mosaic signage and stained glass windows complimenting the beautiful turned wood shop front.

And the owner of this beautiful former Off-License is none other than John Galvin, Chairperson of Listowel Races! Serendipity indeed.

The shop is open 10am to 6pm Monday to Saturday for the month of August and Aoife will open at 9am in September to accommodate busy Mums dropping kids to school.

All of Aoife Hannon's pieces are hand-made from start to finish.

And they are all one-off so there is no fear of meeting someone else in the same hat! Aoife custom makes pieces so pop into The Hat Shop, 21 William Street, Listowel to see her or call Aoife in 087 3209249 for an appointment to have your dream hat made, I am so looking forward to wearing one of these amazing creations at ladies day this year once again. ................................................................

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Listowel Races launch 2018 with Aoibhín Garrihy and Marietta Dolan.

Photo: Don MacMonagle

Sunny’s Hair & Beauty, Church Street, Listowel is vibrant and welcoming in their new premises in church street the team at Sunny's are ready to prep you for that race look. Offering a range of hair and beauty services your guaranteed to walk out looking a feeling amazing. Book your appointment today before it’s too late. ................................................................

McCarthy’s Bar ... why not finish off your trip to Listowel with a visit to McCarthy’s Bar Finuge, the award winning Mary and her fabulous daughters will ensure you get the royal north Kerry welcome. They have a host of entertainment all week with the ultimate in fun on Friday night with their après race night featuring "Most Dapper Man and 'Most Stylish Hat" so don’t miss that. Shuttle buses running from the racecourse and a bbq in the most beautiful beer garden .... it’s the ideal close to your racing day. ................................................................

Finally we finished our visit in listowel with a call to the Butler Center who hosted our fashion shoot for the looks in this feature. What an asset to any town, the gloriously rooms restored to elegance by Antoinette gives you the stately feel the minute you walk in the door, the people of listowel are blessed to have this on their doorstep, it’s ideal for meetings staff open days and even for those important occasions in your life.

That’s just a small sample of what listowel has to offer there really is something for everyone and its well worth checking out.

Would you like to WIN TICKETS to one of the days at Listowel Races? Tell us how many years Listowel are celebrating this year? Email your name, answer and where you are from to: info@connectpublications.ie COMPETITION IS OPEN TO EMAIL AND SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS

#LoveListowel

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STYLE ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS Kerry is the kingdom of style and as well as some amazing shops to satisfy our fashion requirements.

We are steeped in talented designers, millner’s and creative design people. Two such ladies who are making waves internationally at this point are Carol Kennelly and Tina Griffin. It’s a busy time of year with race meetings and wedding season in full swing but we caught up for a quick chat with the ladies to see where at all began and to get some tips and ideas for any upcoming occasions you may want to get organised for.

BY MARISA REIDY

Carol Kennelly LISTOWEL Ladies Day is just around the corner, when women across the country will flock to ‘The Island’ in the hope of winning what has become one of the most prestigious titles on the Irish racing calendar.

For one Kerry woman, the arrival of racing season means even longer hours and more sleepless nights than usual – ensuring that she plays her part in helping these ladies dress to impress.

That lady is of course renowned milliner, Carol Kennelly, who despite being a household name on the Ladies Day winning circuit across Ireland and beyond, still loves the buzz of racing season.

Based at her home studio in Tralee, the mum of two has garnered an amazing reputation since setting up business over eight years ago. Just one look at her business website www. carolkennellymillinery.com and you can’t help being impressed with the amazing amount of press coverage chronicling her success on the national and international racing day scene.

But as accustomed as Carol has become to seeing her name in lights, she admits that the journey to success was not as straight forward as it may seem.

In fact Carol studied hotel management in college and worked in the hospitality industry for several years before taking the plunge into the exciting and challenging world of millinery.

“I never planned a career in millinery, not at all, but I always loved going to race meetings with my friends - and after a while it became apparent that it was the hats that won the contest,” Carol told Connect.

“However I would often find it difficult to find that perfect hat to complete an outfit, so a few years back I decided to unleash my creative side and learn how to do it myself.”

After winning the Listowel Best Dressed lady competition in 2007 and Galway Races Best Dressed in 2008 wearing two of her own headpieces, she then decided to go on a millinery course with a view to 14 | Connect Kerry | September 2018

making this a real career option.

“I trained with the award winning milliner Lina Stein and in 2010 I started my millinery business from my home in Tralee.

Within a month, I won Best Hat at Killarney Races and Ann Marie O’Leary won best dressed at Galway Races wearing one of my designs.”

Anyone who knows Carol knows that she certainly has not looked back since making that very courageous career move, with the award-winning designer building up an impressive client base not only here in Ireland but right across the globe.

Having your own unique look and style is key to making it in what is a hugely competitive industry, Carol says, telling us that she truly admires fellow designers who she can instinctively recognise.

While she herself leans towards vintageinspired, classic, timeless looks, there are several others in the industry who she really admires, including the renowned Philip Tracey, as well Australian-based Taboo Millinery, who she describes as ‘leaders not followers’.

Of course, earning a reputation as one of Ireland’s leading milliners is not without its challenges, as Carol well knows.

“I think the real challenge is continually coming up with new ideas all the time,” Carol said. “As well as that, when you’re self-employed it’s very difficult to stop working. My husband is always at me to take Sundays off, which I try to do, because it could be very easy to come to a burn out stage.”

Speaking to Connect after this year’s Galway Races and just ahead of the prestigious Dublin Horse Show at the RDS, an insanely busy Carol said she still gets a real buzz from seeing her designs on the podium of prestigious Ladies Day competitions - despite it becoming a more regular occurrence as the years go by.

“I still get that same feeling of excitement and delight every single time. I still do a happy dance around the kitchen,” Carol says, almost apologising for her sheer joy.

“Sometimes I know that certain customers will be wearing my pieces at certain events, and other times I only know that a lady has bought a piece, but I’m not always sure

for what, so when I have success it’s always an amazing feeling.”

While a lot of Carol’s business is custommade, bespoke pieces, many of her clients choose to select a piece from her existing collections or indeed tweak some of these existing designs to suit their own needs.

This, she says, works especially well for ladies who like to see the hat or headpiece in the flesh, rather than trying to picture Carol’s vision by description only.

While Carol has seen – and continues to celebrate – much success on the national and international ladies day circuit, she says that one the highlights of her career to date was being named Irish Milliner of the Year at Kerry Fashion Week in 2016.

That same year, Carol was also honoured to have one of her creations win the Prize for Elegance at the Breeders’ Cup World Championships in California – a hugely proud moment for the Tralee woman.

And with Listowel Races now just around the corner, we had to ask the awardwinning designer for some advice on bagging that all important Ladies Day title.

“The best advice I could possible give is to dress for yourself,” Carol said. “If you do that, you feel happy and that shows. Also be sure to smile as you walk around the racecourse – that’s very important. And choose colour – that always photographs really well.”

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Tina Griffin

example, my ready to wear collection pieces start from €350,” Tina explained.

But did you know that Killorglinbased designer Tina Griffin began her professional career selling houses - not dresses!

“My market is mainly special occasions, so for custom design some clients can often want the more elaborate fabrics and designs and in these cases the pieces are more expensive. I don’t feel designer pieces are any more expensive that boutique shopping but in the case of having a piece designed for you, a huge plus is that its fits and flatters your shape before you take it home.”

The youngest of a family of 10, Tina initially studied Valuation in college and worked as an auctioneer for a number of years in Dublin before finding her passion for fashion, somewhat by accident!

While being a top selling, award winning designer is clearly a dream come true for Tina, she says that her biggest challenge is finding a work/life balance – something she still often struggles with 12 years on.

“It came as a big surprise to me in my mid 20s when I decided to do a sewing class,” Tina told Connect. “Immediately I was hooked. I loved the creativity. I think I knew from that first evening that I had found something that excited me but it took me a number of years - until 2006 - to take the plunge and start my own business. It was a nervous time, so I think I was a couple of years in before I knew this was definitely what I was meant to do.”

“Designing is a long process and creativity doesn’t follow set hours, so I often find myself sketching on my holidays. I also work from home, so I try very hard to discipline myself to follow a schedule, but I struggle a lot with that and particularly at this time of the year when it’s so busy, it can be a 24 /7 job.”

SHE’S regarded as one of Kerry’s top designers, creating stunning occasion wear pieces for women of all ages for the past 12 years.

Now working from a studio in the home she shares with her partner of 20 years, Norman, Tina says that she is loving her chosen career and feels very lucky to have such huge support from fellow designers and customers alike.

“I’ve been very lucky that Kerry and Ireland in general are hugely supportive of Irish design. When you have that level of support and interest it’s about giving people a product and a service that you are happy with and proud of yourself and that’s where the success comes,” she said.

“Patience and consistency are vital to being successful, as fashion designers are rarely an overnight success.”

Over the past number of years Tina has started to create a small annual collection in addition to her one-off, custom designs, a move which she feels has helped give new clients an insight into her design style.

“It has attracted more business from ladies who are a little anxious of the custom design process,” Tina explained. “I’m excited by the prospect of developing that side of my business more in the future. Since I started doing a collection, I find people are surprised that the designs are more affordable than they thought – for 16 | Connect Kerry | September 2018

And with Racing season now in full swing, Tina is of course crazy busy preparing a host of ladies for their respective Ladies Day outings – the thrill of seeing her creations in the prestigious final day line up still as exciting now as it ever was.

“I don’t ever get used to that feeling, it’s a huge buzz,” Tina said of seeing her pieces in the final, or indeed winning a ladies day title. “It’s such a huge vote of confidence for me and my clients and I so genuinely feel very proud. Of course, seeing how excited my parents and family are for me also makes the long hours’ worth it.”

Asked if she could recall her very first Ladies Day win, she didn’t hesitate.

“The one that stands out the most to me was Carol Kennelly winning ‘The Oaks’ at The Curragh in 2013, wearing an orange pantsuit,” she recalled. “The excitement of all the images and social media coverage was amazing and the following days I was inundated with enquiries and well wishes, which blew me away. Funnily though, I actually remember panicking a bit because I felt a little pressure to keep designing even more amazing pieces.”

In a career that has spanned well over a decade and has seen her reputation continue to reach amazing heights, Tina says that the highlight of her career thus far is indeed very close to home.

“It might be the obvious one, but without a doubt the highlight of my career was winning Kerry Fashion Week in 2013,” she said. “I did not expect it. At the time I don’t even know if I was ready for it, but it gave me huge confidence and took my business to another level entirely.”

As for others in the industry who she admires, Tina says we are spoiled for choice – but she certainly has a few inspiring favourites.

“Generally, I admire designers who are doing it for themselves as opposed to the very big fashion houses,” she said. “I love the aesthetic of Irish designer Niamh O’Neill and seeing her make a successful design business being based in Ireland is a real motivation. Don O’Neill is also a huge inspiration and his story of how he started and where he is now is an encouragement to follow your passion and believe in it.”

Finally, with the prestigious Listowel Ladies Day on the horizon, we asked Tina for some top tips for those hoping to dress to impress.

“I think the ladies who take part are the pros. I am a big believer in dressing for your personality, there should be no set rules,” she said. “If a lady wears what she likes to wear, she immediately feels more comfortable and confident, so she stands tall without trying and that confident attitude is the best accessory."

“From a practical point of view, I believe in dressing appropriately for the season.

Listowel is in September so it’s usually a mild enough month, so maybe a sleeve or a light jacket or coat, depending on the temperatures. Wear a colour that you suits you and that you like and steer clear of trend colours and trend designs if they don’t suit you. I think choose your dominant feature, whether that’s the hat or the outfit or the colour and work everything else tastefully around that.”

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vintage day

at Listowel Races BY: DIANE JEFFERS

To say that I love attending the Races is an understatement...there are so many reasons to go Racing in Ireland.... the excitement of a flutter, the love of horses, having a girls day out, but for me it has to be seeing all of The Fashion. The Listowel Races Ladies Day is my second favourite Day of the Year (only Christmas Day tops it for me!). Observing all of the different styles on Parade and meeting and making new Friends is what it is all about !!

I attended, for the 1st time last year, the Vintage Day of Listowel Races which is sponsored by Listowel Tidy Towns .... what is the Vintage Day you might ask? Well it has nothing to do with tractors! .... its ALL about the fashion! The idea being to Re-use & Recycle items from family heirlooms to charity shops find to making or upcycling your outfit. I can say it was one of the most fun days out I have had wearing and being chosen as a finalist in my Mom's astrakhan jacket and a dress I borrowed from my sister.

The prize gift basket I received was packed full of goodies thanks to the sponsors and organisers.

My top tips for dressing for Vintage Day or any Race day are: 1. Pick an era and stick with it .... whether your style is 1920's or 1940's look up the styles for that time and get inspired!!

2. Raid the Mother's wardrobe... last year's winner re-invented her mom's outfit from the 1970's and I have to say she looked amazing!

3. Charity shops are a great place to find pieces for your Vintage Day outfit - there were amazing outfits and headpieces from Charity shops last year 4. Look at an outfits potential for being re-invented by altering it or using the fabric to turn it into something else this is what up-cycling is all about!

5. Most important is to have fun .... dressing in Vintage is so enjoyable - I know I felt like a million dollars wearing my Moms jacket and didn't spend a penny on my entire outfit xx

Margaret Hynes-Cahill (from Ardfert) who purchased her look at Jasmine Boutique won Best Dressed at the Listowel Races Ladies’ Day May 2017

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Kerry’s Top Venues for your Special Day Getting married is one of the most important steps you will ever make in life and you and your partner want it to be a day to be remembered for all the right reasons. There are many decisions to make and choosing the right venue to celebrate your day is vital to the whole event. I guess one could say in Kerry we are spoilt for choice with so many splendid locations to choose from. Here is what some of the amazing venues in Kerry have to offer for your big day....

Rose Hotel Celebrate your wedding in the warm and welcoming Rose Hotel, Tralee. Located in the heart of the Kingdom, the Lee Suite at The Rose Hotel can cater for up to 250 guests and is a glamorous venue for a sophisticated wedding, complete with crystal chandeliers and luxurious décor, flooded with natural light from the outside terrace and planted courtyard, which are also the perfect backdrop for drinks outside and photographs.

With dedicated wedding coordinator Madeleine Doyle at your service your special day will be perfectly tailored to your own personal requirements.

The Rose Hotel’s all-inclusive wedding packages starting from just €58 per guest and includes use of The Rose Hotel’s Rolls Royce for church collection.

Dingle Skellig Dingle is a unique destination famed for culture, stunning windswept scenery and a truly Irish experience. Having welcomed couples from across the globe to share their special day, each sharing a love for a unique Irish experience.

The Dingle Skellig Hotel offers choices from traditional wedding days to unique blessings and partnerships. With both indoor and outdoor options for your ceremony, the Skellig Suite with its panoramic views across Dingle Bay, and catering for up to 250 guests, you can plan your wedding with ease, safe in the knowledge of their extensive experience.

Their unique setting will leave you and your guests with amazing memories. They currently have an exceptional wedding celebration special which is available on selected dates from October to March.

From only €60 per guest, you will also receive extras including Dingle Distillery cocktail reception on arrival, choice of carved ham or finger sandwiches on arrival, Skellig candy cart, half bottle of wine per person, six complimentary guest rooms on the night of your wedding and a make-up application in the spa on the morning after your big day.

Visit www.dingleskellig.com or call 066 915 0200 for full details.

Dromhall Hotel "The food was nothing short of incredible”. . . . . .

“The main function room looked absolutely beautiful”… ”Gave us all the attention like we were the only couple in the world”… ”Perfect location for any brides dream day”… ”Dromhall is definitely the place”…

Words from couples that said “I Do” to the 4* Dromhall Hotel for their dream day…

The Rose Hotel has the ideal combination of culinary expertise, picturesque setting and attention to detail to make your dream day a reality.

Couples planning their dream wedding day need to view the stunning Shelbourne Banqueting Suite and exclusive arrival reception area which caters for weddings from 80 – 320 guests. With over fifty years of experience, the Randles family know exactly how to make this most special of occasions perfect. Fairy light backdrop, chair covers, sashes and wedding car are just some of the many generous items that are included in their wedding packages. Their location is ideal too, easy access, plenty of complimentary parking and offering wonderful opportunities for memorable wedding pictures, not only outdoors but within the hotel itself – just check out the splendid staircase and imagine yourself standing there with cameras flashing!! And yes, they are fully registered to provide civil ceremonies.

Contact mdoyle@therosehotel.com or call 066 7199100 for more information. www.therosehotel.com

Book your wedding consultation today and talk to the experts at the Dromhall Hotel and see why this award winning Killarney venue is the ideal choice for your special day…Dromhall Weddings . . . A Day you’ll remember forever.

Contact Ciara – 064-6639300 or email ciaraoc@randleshotels.com

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Kerry’s Top Venues for your Special Day Kenmare Bay Hotel Here at the Kenmare Bay Hotel & Resort, we are delighted to announce the completion of our Wedding Suite Make-Over.

This year marks over 10 Years of beautiful Weddings at the Kenmare Bay Hotel so to celebrate we have decided to give our Wedding Banquet Suite a NEW LOOK! Along with a complete décor update with luxurious tones and a neutral colour palate, we have also added stylish new Chiavari chairs for added elegance on your big day. To compliment all this, we now have a personalised lighting system with tailored colour schemes to suit each couple and each wedding perfectly.

Meadowlands Hotel Set in a tranquil corner of Tralee on private gardens, the stylish Meadowlands Hotel is the place of dreams on your Wedding Day. Individual wedding packages are tailored to each couple to ensure a special day and something a little different. Rest assured, you will receive personal attention to every detail from the dedicated and experienced team.

The elegant An Meithéal Ballroom, which is located in a private area of the hotel with its own fairy-tale lit courtyard, accommodates weddings up to 180 guests.

Smaller more intimate wedding celebrations are accommodated in An Móinéar Restaurant, with a welcome reception organised in the resident’s lounge or gardens offering a picture-perfect photo opportunity.

The Meadowlands Hotel is also a licensed and approved venue to hold Civil and Spiritual Ceremonies & Partnerships. The wedding team is happy to assist in arranging the ceremony.

Keep the celebrations going with an After-wedding party in Johnny Frank’s Bar & Lounge. The perfect venue to relax and unwind with close family and friends. Enjoy casual dining, buffet, a finger food party or Barbecue. A fantastic array of menus are available to suit all tastes and budgets.

For more information contact 066 718 0444 or www.meadowlandshotel.com

The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens is now open again after an extensive renovation project of the hotel’s public areas including the restaurant, bar, reception, lobby, car park, lounge & an extensive garden enhancement. The 5 star hotel, overlooking the famous Gap of Dunloe, is set on a private 64 acres estate leading to the ruins of the 12th century Dunloe Castle and River Laune which flows through the grounds.

This setting creates a romantic atmosphere making it a unique and ideal backdrop for your perfect wedding day.

The hotel and dedicated team of staff have been welcoming weddings for over 50 years and offer a highly personalized and professional service in an exceptional location. The hotel is also licensed for civil wedding ceremonies.The Upper Lounge is the perfect place to greet guests and welcome them for the evening celebrations.

With elevated views of the rolling countryside, this area has its own bar and exudes comfort and elegance.

To showcase our NEW LOOK, we are having a Wedding Open Day, Sunday September 30th from 12-5pm. Meet with our dedicated Wedding Team, see our revamped Wedding Suite and tour our hotel facilities. You will also get the opportunity to avail of special discounts and offers for new wedding enquiries on the day and for those who have already booked their wedding with us, their will be a special giveaway also. Booking is advised to speak to a member of the Team on the day! Call Sile or Alan today or pop us an email to register your interest.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Tel: 064-6679300 Email: sile@kenmarebayhotel.com www.kenmarebayhotel.com

In the most beautiful natural setting you and your guests will enjoy the best of international and Irish cuisine in the Park Suite. With its own bar and dance floor, the Park Suite offers also access to a private covered terrace. All 102 guestrooms at The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens have breathtaking views of mountains or gardens. The hotel offers a wealth of activities including complimentary trekking on Haflinger Ponies, 25m swimming pool, steam room, sauna and indoor tennis. Guests may also enjoy complimentary fishing on the River Laune which flows through the Dunloe Estate.

The hotel is holding a wedding consultation day on 16th September 2018 by appointment only. Future Brides and Grooms are invited to attend the event to experience all that this stunning wedding venue has to offer. Renowned for its hospitality, friendly and efficient service and mouth-watering menus, The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens will showcase how it can turn your dream wedding into reality with its fantastic offering of bespoke wedding packages. Guests will arrive on the traditional red carpet to the hotel where the experienced management team will be on hand to welcome couples and guide them through the hotel. The Dunloe Hotel & Garden’s team will help you design your dream wedding while enjoying a glass of bubbly and gourmet canapés, as you discover that your wedding will be in safe hands.

Contact the hotel’s wedding team now at weddings@thedunloe.com or call 064 6644111 for enquiries & more information.

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Kerry’s Top Venues for your Special Day

The Earl of Desmond Hotel The Earl of Desmond hotel has been a popular wedding venue for years and it’s not difficult to see why. The staff are highly trained and utterly professional and they have built their reputations on providing countless couples with the wedding day of their dreams. Norella Mansfield is an example of this. She recently won the prestigious Brides of Kerry Wedding Coordinator of the Year Award, proving once again just how exceptional the service at the Earl of Desmond can be. Superior service isn’t all the hotel has to offer. There’s its elegant function room, which can cater for all sizes of wedding. It can seat anything from 120 to 380 guests thanks to a partition wall which divides the room in two. The function room also has mood lighting which can be adapted to suit your needs. “We can change the colour of the lighting to suit your theme or even the colour of the bridesmaids’ dresses,” says Norella. “If you tell us what you want, we will do our best to make it happen for you.” The hotel’s bridal room is utterly romantic. It’s bright and spacious and it’s even got its own Jacuzzi. You couldn’t imagine a better place to spend your first night as husband and wife.

Photographers are always impressed with the Earl of Desmond as it’s a hotel that offers lots of photo opportunities, inside and out.

Inside, there’s the atmospheric Geraldine Room, the bright lobby and the spacious bar area. Outside, there are gardens to the front and rear of the building as well as a wooded walkway leading to the river. This is a hotel that does everything it can to turn every couple’s dream wedding into a reality. It doesn’t matter if you want a civil ceremony in the company of a small group of family and friends followed by an intimate reception or a huge church wedding followed by a night of feasting, singing and dancing; the Earl of Desmond will make it happen for you. www.earlofdesmond.com 30 | Connect Kerry | September 2018

The Gleneagle Hotel I do are the two most important words you will probably ever say, so why not make a song and dance about it. They have been doing just that for Gleneagle couples for decades. From the stylish 1950’s, when the traditional wedding breakfast ended in the early afternoon, right up to today’s celebrations which often last for days. The Gleneagle Hotel first opened its doors as a small country-house hotel way back in 1957. They soon outgrew their small kitchen and tiny cocktail bar and so today they offer so much more; a private bar for your arrival reception, a standalone kitchen and serving team dedicated to your wedding reception, a late bar and a choice of function rooms including the newly refurbished Mangerton Suite complete with five glistening crystal chandeliers.

The Gleneagle is licensed for civil and humanist ceremonies or should you choose a spiritual marriage then they can host that too. They offer a selection of rooms of varying size and so certainly have the perfect place for you to say I do. While traditions and trends may change, food will always play an integral role in the celebrations and this is where The Gleneagle team’s expertise and experience really shines through.

Head Chef John Drummond and his team recently launched a series of new wedding dishes which sound simply delicious. Little ones just love to party, so why not share your special day with them? The team at The Gleneagle have oodles of activities to keep them busy and entertained. Their dedicated kids club team at the Aquila Club are available on request and they offer all kinds of fun and games so moms and dads can relax and enjoy their day out as well. Wake up to a champagne breakfast in the elegant honeymoon suite on the first morning of your lives as newlyweds. The Gleneagle honeymoon suite is a quiet haven where you can rejuvenate and recall the highlights of your special day. For your guests, there is a choice of accommodation and rooms available. The Gleneagle Apartments are ideal for families and groups of friends while the main hotel offers a wide choice of room types. Your friends and family will have travelled from far and wide to share in your special day, but then it all passes in a heartbeat. Extending the celebrations grants you extra precious time with those you love and who love you. A rehearsal dinner at The Gleneagle Hotel will have those glasses clinking before ever a ring is exchanged. And believe us when we say you will not want the party to end and so perhaps a singsong or a barbeque the next day will be just the trick. The team at The Gleneagle can also organise all sorts of excursions - a round of golf, a day trip or a boat tour on the lakes. For further information on celebrating your wedding at The Gleneagle Hotel in Killarney or to request a wedding pack call 064 6636000 or email Banqueting Manager, Liam Kealy liamk@gleneaglehotel.com

Ashe Hotel Hotel The Ashe Hotel is a new addition to Tralee and in a short time has gained a reputation for offering genuine hospitality, wonderful food and impeccable service. Our aim is to provide an intimate and warm hotel which captures a seamless blend of the contemporary and the traditional. We pride ourselves on our ability to be dedicated to your big day and our experienced team will be on hand right from enquiry, on the run up to your day and on the day itself. We like to tailor every wedding to your distinct wishes with particular emphasis on table and room décor and in providing excellent cuisine.

Every detail of your wedding will be considered and it is our intention that every expectation will be exceeded. We are delighted to be a fully licensed venue for Civil Ceremonies and our spacious ballroom provides the perfect setting to take your vows. Our décor has been described as having an ‘understated elegance’ and our reception lobby provides the perfect setting for a drinks reception. It’s a short transition to the mood lit ballroom. Here you will delight in a sumptuous banquet.

At the end of your remarkable day, retire to your luxurious suite and the following morning relive the magical moments over a bubbly breakfast. We sincerely hope to have the opportunity of hosting your special day at The Ashe. It is our intention that you can relax and enjoy your wedding in the knowledge that our team will be on hand offering you and your guests a highly personalised level of attention to ensure the most memorable day possible. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your requirements in detail and we would be delighted to show you our wonderful facility. www.theashehotel.ie

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Holistic Hens ... the ideal hen party Future brides together with their bridesmaids and friends can enjoy a hen weekend with a difference at Ballygarry House Hotel & Spa. Nádúr Spa is the perfect place to bring your hens for a relaxing day or weekend of indulgent pampering.

Our new Holistic Hen packages “Balanced Babes” & “Goddesses” offer hen parties some time to chill and unwind with a 90 minute Zen Hen Yoga class which, weather permitting can take place in the gardens This is followed by one of the following 30 minute spa treatments; Honey & Irish Whiskey Salted Body Scrub, Muscle Melt Back Massage, Essential Rose Facial, Instant Eye Repair Treatment or Aromatherapy Hydrotherapy Bath provided by our highly qualified spa therapists.

Guests have full access to our thermal suite with sauna, steam room, hydrotherapy bath and outdoor hot-tub. Our Holistic Hens can retreat to the relaxation haven to enjoy fresh smoothies and fruit enhanced by stunning vistas our beautiful landscaped gardens and Sliabh Mish Mountains. After all this relaxation, spend the afternoon sipping bubbles with your girls in The Lodge, the 18th century cottage on the grounds of the hotel where your Prosecco Afternoon Tea will be served by a butler service.

Why not make your Holistic Hen Party extra special and unique with some consciously creative activities for you and your Bride Tribe? The Goddesses Package includes all of above and one hour of Bride Tribe activities, an exciting way to celebrate and connect with your best friends before the big day. The professional wellness women and healers of Bride Tribe events have designed activities to cater for the modern and alternative bride-to-be. Why not become a boho princesses for the day by spending time together creating your own fresh flower crowns (fab insta-photos guaranteed!) or receive some life guidance by connecting with your angels through personal angel card readings. Perhaps you would love to learn about the magic and power of crystal healing to bring more of what you desire into your life or allow your creativity run wild by breaking out the paintbrushes for some fun Art from the Heart or create your own vision boards for your exciting lives ahead as you sip on your ice cold glass of bubbly.

Our Holistic Hen Party Packages are sure to create meaningful memories for you and your friends and make your hen party one to remember for a lifetime. Balanced Babes & Goddesses Packages have a minimum number of 8 guests for group bookings. All-inclusive Dinner, Bed & Breakfast packages available on request.

For more information on our Holistic Hen Party Packages: Contact Gina, Nádúr Spa Manager Tel. 066 714 4560 E-mail: spa@ballygarryhouse.com Web: www.ballygarryhouse.com

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Hi Lovely Readers, Hopefully ye survived the festivals, the results, the all Irelands and the return to school for the "smallies".

The Summer has passed by so quickly and thoughts now turn to colder and wetter weather. Most people buy a good winter coat annually I say most people as I don't own a coat even on the coldest and wettest days, I tend to wear only heavy scarves or the ever reliable pashmina.

Our Autumn/Winter stock is arriving daily and i must admit it is fab.

When you have made the choice of purchasing your "good coat" please call in and let us put your personal look to it, be it a contrasting colour hat and scarf or matching gloves, mind you some times all it might need is a sparkly brooch, It has always been my belief that just because the weather gets cold and wet we should not compromise on style.

We have hats, scarves and gloves to suit all ages and budgets so call in if passing and have a browse.

Will sign off now and always remember keep smiling ....

Carmel xx

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All your Wedding Style Needs ...

Let's be honest - it's no lon need to worry about. Th ger just the wedding gown that brides ere's also the day befor e the big day and the day after you say I do. Most weddings the se days last for at least two days with thr ee day celebrations not unhe The night before the we dding you may have a for ard of either. mal or informal get together for family.

Th relaxed extra-long brunc e day after you might be having a h and dearest. The possibil or an evening BBQ with your nearest ities are endless and so are the outfits!

The Day Before…………

And so, here we are – it’s the day before the wedding! You thought it would never come, and then… BOOM. Ideally, you should put up your feet and have the most relaxing time ever – so tomorrow you’ll feel rested, bright and happy, but that’s not always possible as pre wedding nerves won’t leave you relax.

This is the night that will kick-start a beautiful new chapter with your significant other, so what you wear should put the spotlight on you at all times, ultimately because this is your weekend to shine! This is your time to make a statement and go a bit bolder than you might be doing with your wedding gown. Many brides wear white to their rehearsal dinners and for the day after but it can be fun to go outside the box and opt for a dress or jumpsuit in a bright colour or print. You will most likely – be wearing white on your big day anyways, so it’s nice to separate the two events a bit.

The Day After…………...

After a magical day filled with family, friends, food, and dancing, it’s perfectly acceptable to be completely exhausted.

You’ve endured hundreds of hours planning with sleepless nights and just a whole mess of emotions in general. But now that the big day has finally come and gone you and your husband deserve some serious rest and relaxation. You’ve worn that perfect dress after searching for it for months and chances are you had the full heels and Spanx treatment. And then you wake up as Mrs, with a terrifying thought - just what the am I going to wear? Since you are still the star of the show you will want to feel and look your best on day two. Whatever you decide to do to keep the party going comfort is crucial – but that doesn’t mean you’re restricted to jeans and Converse trainers. So whatever your style for the festivities here are a few ideas to help make your wedding outfit planning a little easier and to keep the nerves at bay!

The White Dress

iclothing €39.95

Of course, there's no rule saying you need to wear white the day before or after your wedding. However, many brides stick with the wedding theme and wear a sophisticated white dress.

You can opt for a ‘Little White Dress’ but let’s be honest after a day of celebrations the last thing you will want is something constricting. Instead you can choose a loose waist if the toasting and cake have left you a little bloated.

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Catherine’s Fashion Fix.

By Catherine Keane

The Jumpsuit

If you want something a little classic but feminine at the same time then a simple jumpsuit may be for you.

Jumpsuits are fuss-free all-in-one must-haves, making a super easy and chic outfit. Whether you want to iclothing €31.95 cover up or bear some skin, there’s guaranteed to be one to suit your taste and style. Jumpsuits are perfect for lounging around but still looking great. Add a few eye-catching pieces of statement jewellery to make your outfit instantly more stylish.

Relaxed Boho Chic

Perfect for a chilled BBQ with guests the day after the wedding, a relaxed bohemian look is made for the fashionforward bride. A floral maxi dress with a cardigan and flats will add a effortlessly cool vibe. Chic and sophisticated without being too structured or formal, means you can look super stylish whilst still being comfortable.

Catherine x For all your fashion questions email: info@connectpublications.ie

iclothing €49.95

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You are what you eat

By Nora Butler

The glimpse of yourself in a shop window, you look up and feel embarrassed, ugly, shame, guilt. Or you come across an unflattering photograph on your news feed…What have I done to myself? How did this happen? I have to go and starve myself now…buy runners, join a gym, and overhaul my life!!! Come September the memories of summer days and holidays can become tarnished when we are huffing and puffing trying to get somewhere….struggling to fit into our jeans again!! September for many people sees them in new routines and waving goodbye to our small people at the school gate….time on your hands again can turn in to time for you, a new routine can incorporate getting some activity and good food into your lifestyle, my name is Nora Butler and I work with Slimming World based in Tralee. I have to say I have one of the most rewarding and difficult jobs in the world! I get to help people who are struggling with their weight to achieve their weight loss goals. On paper this looks very easy tell people what to eat and they will go and eat it right? In reality people need much more than an instruction manual and they need support to change lifelong habits and coping mechanisms. Losing weight is a mental physical and emotional battle! So to help you start off in a positive manner let’s talk about food choices…..good simple wholesome food that you and the whole family can enjoy.

Eating balanced meals and not avoiding food groups… having a little bit of everything in moderation will do you no harm….using this approach will make your weight loss more sustainable and maintainable. That’s our approach and it has helped millions and millions of people achieve their weight loss goals.

For somebody considering overhauling their life, it can seem like an extremely daunting process. Firstly how am I going to do this? Self-doubt creeps in, fear of failure and shame….January 2013 I saw myself faced with this situation after I saw a photograph of me holding my niece…It was the wakeup call that I needed to start to make changes. Initially I taught I could outrun my fork and hit the road….my knees almost caved in!! I had to give into the realisation that my weight loss was going to come from the kitchen…I started to cook my food from scratch….I learned lots and lots about vegetables, spices the benefits of herbs and seasonings. I shared my dreams with my loved ones, my inner circle and wider community. Activity and fitness became more incorporated into my everyday life and it’s given me such a positive mind-set, friends and a sense of achievement. When people know that this journey matters to you, they are supportive, accommodating and non-judgmental. When you rock up at family events with your own food and your family doesn’t bat an eyelid you know you have total acceptance! Its five years down the line and of the four and a half stone that I’ve lost there’s a half a stone that keeps finding me but I’m ok with that….I’m fitter, stronger and healthier than I have ever been. The misery, shame and pain that I carried around with me weighed heavier on my heart than my actual weight at the time.

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For anybody considering making a change to their lifestyles some of the things that helped me were:

• Plan your food a few days at a time • Get a good shop in • Frozen Veg is a great time saver • Freshen up your spice rack • Tell your friends and family that you want this.

• Start with small steps • Remember it’s a long-term change • Habits can be unlearned • Eat a wide variety of food types, enjoy and relish your food!

• If you find that it’s hard going (it absolutely is but it’s absolutely worth it!)

• Get support • It’s ok to have setbacks, just don’t give up!!

Nora Butler

PEARLY WHITES AN DR MARCAS MAC DOMHNAILL

Fáilte Romhaibh.

Medication - related osteornecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) is a serious condition that can affect patients on certain medications. This is a potentially severe adverse drug reaction, resulting in progressive bone destruction of the jaws. Patients on certain medications for osteoporosis or cancer treatments are most at risk.

This condition can occur if patients on certain medications have a tooth removed or some other surgical dental procedure in the mouth. The bone fails to heal which results in a very sore open wound in which the jaw bone is exposed and it is very difficult to get the area healing again.

It is very important that patients who are about to start treatments for cancer or osteoporosis should always attend a dentist for a complete dental examination. This will allow any dental treatments to be carried out prior to starting their medication for cancer or osteoporosis. Patients should always consult with their doctor whether certain medications may put them at risk of MRONJ in the future, so that they can bring this to the attention of their dentist prior to treatment.

Tús maith, leath na hoibre.

A good start makes half the work.

Beir Bua.

Dr. Marcas Mac Domhnaill.

BDS (NUI), DIP Cons Sed (TCD) Mac Domhnaill Dental, Denny Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry

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Eating Plan

By Nora Butler Slimming World

Starting off with breakfast there is lots of ideas to choose from…

A Slimming World go to breakfast is Overnight Oats as people tend to find their mornings very hectic and need to rush out the door. To make this you use: 40g of porridge oats, fat free yoghurt (I prefer Fat Free Greek Style but any will do) add frozen berries. Put half of each first and layer them up in a mason jar or plastic food container. Leave overnight in the fridge and enjoy the next morning. I tend to make two or three of these on busier weeks.

Other options could entail: Berry-topped Weetabix using two Weetabix top with fat free Greek style yoghurt and frozen or fresh berries. 2 eggs scrambled and served on toasted bread can be topped with cherry tomatoes, red onion and a sprinkling of flat leaf parsley. The weekend when I have more time I recommend a good fry up using frylite to fry up eggs, tomatoes and bacon medallions and I add microwaved beans. This is packed full of protein to keep my appetite satisfied. You can also add low fat sausages and two slices of low calorie wholemeal bread from a 400g loaf.

Lunch Ideas

A sandwich packed with lean meat and salad of your choice, beans on toast, baked potato with beans and 40g of reduced fat cheddar cheese. A homemade soup with low calorie brown bread is another option.

Plain made up couscous made with stock or boiled water can be transformed by adding canned chickpeas, chopped cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, red peppers and spring onions. I often have leftovers from a day or so beforehand for my lunch. Another handy lunch is an omelette which can be made beforehand using eggs, lean meat and frozen onions, peppers and sweetcorn the options are endless.

Dinners for the Family can entail ...

Cottage Pies, Spaghetti Bolognaise, Chicken Curries, Fish bakes, fakeaway pizzas….we love slimming world burgers and chips as a quick go to Friday night fakeaway option. You can pick up a bag of vacuum packed sliced potatoes in supermarkets or slice up your own. Preheat oven at 180®C.

Par boil these for ten mins drain and spray them with frylight.. season with some paprika or Swartz chip seasoning. To make your burgers get a packet of lean minced beef 5% fat content is recommended put it in a bowl and add in a few dashes of worcheshire sauce, a tsp of mixed herbs, some dried garlic and some frozen chopped onions combine and divide into four or five season with salt and pepper if you like. When chips are par boiled. Place burgers and chips in the oven for 25mins. I serve mine with a huge salad which I place on the plate first and build my meal around it.

I adore making food for my friends and family and sometimes when my soul is low I make myself some soul food. We can rely on food to fuel us and comfort us when times are low….I have fallen into this trap myself so many times over my life….I’ve tried to focus on being more mindful about my food and taking time to prepare my food and present it nicely so I’m treating myself with respect. People often underestimate how much time it takes to make good food so being prepared is vital to success. Bulk cooking, freezing leftovers and prepping where possible are going to really help you with long-term success.

Frozen veg is a total lifesaver and gives our bodies much needed vitamins and nutrients. Drinking two litres of fluids per day to keep us hydrated is also very important to flush our bodies of toxins and keep our skin supple. Having a source of fibre in the diet is also very important to keep everything going in the right direction!! Try to have one source of fibre per day…It can be from sources such as breads, crispbreads, nuts or seeds, stewed or canned fruit, cereals or soups.

Ideas for snacks can be

Hard boiled eggs, pickled onions, seafood sticks, Hartley’s No Added Sugar Jelly Pots, Plain Meringue Nests (add fruit and Fat Free Yoghurt for an Eton mess). Packet of Velvet Crunch Crisps, a Snack Sized Chocolate Bar, Diet Drinks, No added Sugar Cordials, Herbal Teas, Coffee, Pieces of Fruit or Veg can also be tucked into guilt free….the thing that’s amazing about Slimming World is no food is banned and that’s quite a liberating feeling!!

If you would like to find out more about joining a group you can come along to any class that suits you and sit in on our new members talk where you can see in more detail how food optimising works. There’s an abundance of support, ideas and buckets of empathy and understanding…this is where the magic happens x NORA’S SLIMMING WORLD TRALEE, MEADOWLANDS HOTEL Every Wednesday 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm & 7:30 pm Instagram: foodoptimisingninja Telephone: 087-2489838 Search Slimming World Kerry on Facebook for your local groups.

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Horan's Healthstores will be holding a Health & Wellness Fest on Saturday the 6th & Sunday the 7th of October at Manor West Hotel Tralee from 10am until 6pm each day.

Horan's Healthstores currently have 14 Health stores in the Munster region. "Having visited Health shows all over the world, I felt it was time to bring one of these Health shows to Tralee" said Sandra Breen Regional Manager Horan's Healthstores.

Over the 2 day event they will have key speakers from Ireland, the UK and the USA, which will include world renowned nutritionist Patrick Holford, renowned nutritionist & author Dr. Marilyn Glenville along with renowned TV personality Lorraine Keane & Nutritionist and Author Oliver McCabe.

CEO & Owner of Miss Fit Skinny Tea Ruth Hetherington will be on hand to discuss her brand NEW Miss Fit MAX Tea. They will have Ruben Tabares also, he is one of the most in-demand strength and conditioning coaches in the world.

THERE WILL ALSO BE WORKSHOPS, THAT WILL INCLUDE: Cholesterol Testing, BMI, Ear Coning, Acupuncture, Reflexologists, Makeovers, Skin Care Advice, Eye Analysis, Vitamin & Mineral Testing, Food Intolereance Testing, Energy Tapping, Crystals, THERE WILL BE OVER 50 STANDS WHICH WILL INCLUDE: Sampling of health foods & healthy beverages. There will be qualified nutritionists and specialists available to answer any questions you may have on both days.

Kerry GAA Nutritionist Kevin Beasley along with members of the Kerry GAA panel will be available for a Q and A Session.

Vegan-ish Book Signing with Style & Beauty Guru and Author Holly White.

Tickets cost â‚Ź10, which are available in all Horan's Healthstores (there will be limited availability) Customers are advised to book early to be assured a space for Key speakers.

A full itinerary will be available in the coming days.

Spot Prizes in the region of â‚Ź2000 to be won over the weekend.

Outdoor broadcasts with Radio Kerry each morning.

TOPICS THAT WILL BE DISCUSSED WILL INCLUDE: Hormones, Brain Health, Menopause, Importance of Fish Oils, Cholesterol, Nutrition for the Family, Stress, Sleeping Patterns, Immunity, Joint Care, Weight Loss, Fertility, Sports Nutrition, Vitamin D deficiency, Importance of Multivitamins, Probiotics, CBD, these are just some of our topics that will be covered over the 2 days. There will be up to 35 key speakers during the weekend.

ith w d n e k e e W Family c i t s a t n ents a F m h A s e fr e R , g Face Paintin ore..... &M

50 | Connect Kerry | September 2018

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If you have had the pleasure of walking through tralee town (or indeed galway, cork or Dublin too) at weekends over the past few months then you have probably heard the captivating and unique vocals of Seamus Harty, a truly wonderful Tralee talent. He drew massive crowds during his two gigs over the Rose of Tralee festival and anyone that knows him says one thing of him….. ‘I hope he does well in music, he’s a lovely,genuine young man’.

He has recorded a video with Today FM, a cover of Luka Blooms ‘Bogman’ which has a massive view count on both Facebook and youtube. I spoke to Seamus about himself, what inspires his music and what he hopes will happen in his future in the industry.

Hey Seamus, so wonderful to have a young artist making waves in the music industry from tralee but tell us all about you!

My name is Séamus, I’m 17, from Tralee attending Brookfield college. My parents are Roger Harty and Brid Murphy and my brother’s name is Conor.

When did you start your music journey? Was it something you were always interested in or was there a certain moment in time you just decided.... this is for me?

I always had a connection with music from a very small age in terms of that I was always able to experience music in its truest colors.

For example my mam told me a story before about when we went on holidays to France in about 2004/05 so I would have been about 4 years old. We were walking by a beach one night and basically I had pretty much disappeared off somewhere while we were walking. There was an orchestra by the beach playing and I had scampered off to listen. When I came back I had tears rolling down my face because I listened to a classical piece called, “Gabriel’s Oboe” and i said how it made me think of homeless people and made me really sad.

It just always seemed like I had that bond with music but in terms of considering it as a career option? I only started believing that in the past few months.

Who would you say are your biggest musical influences and in what way?

I'm very open minded when it comes to listening to music. When I was younger and my parents would be going for the messages etc I used to always ask to stay in the car and just listen to the cds cover to cover. From there I experienced such radically different styles ranging from artists like Pavarotti to Bruce Springsteen to Eminem to Johnny cash etc. so I guess I’m influenced by many artist because I picked little snippets from each to add to my own arsenal but I always took a particular liking to blues and swing so I would say the Rat Pack would have been a major influence (Sinatra, Sammy Davis etc) and other guys like Ray Charles and Johnny Lee hHoker. I think my biggest Irish influence now would

52 | Connect Kerry | September 2018

By: Lisa Curran

actually be Hozier as I think he’s just so powerful all round the board. Melodies, lyrics and vocals he’s got everything. I can only admire him.

You recently got to play a great set in your home town of tralee for the rose of tralee festival, how was that? Is it more nerve wracking playing before a home crowd? And you’re playing support for the wonderful Stephanie Rainey soon!! How did that come about?

I thoroughly enjoyed it. Great craic. It was also kind of funny to see so many familiar faces in the crowd when singing but certainly not nerve wracking. I don’t really get nervous at all any more. I’m confident in what I can do. My first ever gig I got nervous, in fact I was actually sitting in the bathroom, of the bar I was playing, for about a half hour before I went on nearly hyperventilating and shaking because I was so scared. But I got up, sang well and since then I’ve had a motto for myself that if I’m getting nervous before a gig, it’s because I don’t think I deserve to be here and I whole heartedly believe that I do deserve to be here so why be nervous?

Yes. I can not wait to play before Stephanie, she’s incredibly talented and on top of that just really sound. She came across me busking in cork city one day and asked if I’d be interested. I said sure why not and now here we are.

You have amazing covers up on your social media of other atrists but what would you describe your own style as?

Tough one because I love writing in a load of different genre styles but I feel I’m gravitating more towards blues and soul.

Have you any advice for other young musicians starting out doing covers and gigs that may be nervous or shy about starting to share their talents?

Not to worry. If you’re brave enough to put your talents on show for the whole world to see, people will only respect you for it and that goes for anything. Of course you might feel a little scared the first time but you just need to have that 0.0005 seconds of courage and press post. Also doing gigs are really important as well as busking. It develops you socially and is the best form of education you’ll get in terms of crowd management and live performing which are invaluable skills to master. Also To focus more on songwriting than gigs and covers.

Something I feel strongly about is that so many people focus on their singing, which of course is imperative to give plenty of time to, but give little to no attention to their craft in actually making music and writing songs. It’s tough starting out and you will write some truly dreadful songs but that’s all part of it. Plus in my opinion I find songwriting to be extremely beneficial

for

SEAMUS HARTY

Music in the Kingdom

your mental health be it if you’re musical or not. To just write down what you’re feeling.

It’s a great form of self expression. I know I certainly feel a million times better about something after I put it on paper.

So what is in the pipeline for you in the coming few months? We will all be waiting patiently to see your name in lights and hear your vocals on the radio!

The leaving Cert seems to be my next big project and I’ll be killed at home for saying to the contrary. I Haven’t a clue, this will me an interesting year I feel though.

Please support Seamus in his journey, I can’t express how genuine and down to earth he is and an absolute pleasure to speak and deal with. You can find him on Facebook: Seamus Harty Music Youtube: Seamus Harty Instagram: Seamus_Harty. No doubt we will see his name in lights very soon.

ALSO THIS MONTH: Keep an eye out for local buskers and performing groups at Tralee food Festival on the mall and by Yummy Cafe September 22nd 12-6! There are a few slots still available so contact me via any of my handles above if you or your group are interested.

I am delighted to be teaming up with Kerry County Arts again following their free summer camp initiative this summer to provide FREE vocal workshops in preparation for Culture night on September 21st. The workshops will focus on learning pop songs in Irish as well as Irish ballads and traditional pieces and will be Saturday 8th and 15th 2.30-4.30 and the performance will be Friday September 21st 5-6pm. For more information get onto eventbrite.ie and search ‘free choral workshops for culture night’ to book your place.

Lisa

SNAPCHAT: lizzieraisin INSTGRAM: lizzieraisin TWITTER: lizzieraisin FACEBOOK: Lisa Curran Soprano

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HOW I GOT HERE ....

Amber Galwey Journalist

By: Mary Lucey (Principal, Kerry College of Further Education) Amber Galwey is 26 and comes from Castleisland, Co Kerry. As a journalist with Kerry’s Eye Newspaper, she is normally at the other side of the table gathering information. On this occasion however, she is providing the answers! Amber has interviewed me on numerous occasions and always impressed me with her professionalism and courteous manner. She will begin as a broadcast journalist with Radio Kerry this month, another exciting role for her to work in which she will, no doubt, have wonderful success. Below she tells us about her career todate: Tell us about yourself and your career …

Since I was young I have been interested in English, reading, news and sports. During my time at Presentation Secondary School in Castleisland, I really got the chance to develop my love of English. Upon leaving school I went on to study Journalism and New Media. It was a four year course which covered everything from news, feature and sports writing, broadcast journalism and court reporting - and I loved every minute of it! I graduated in 2014 and was very fortunate to get the opportunity to join the Kerry's Eye news team as a journalist that year. For almost four years I have worked as a reporter in Kerry's Eye, where I have gained wonderful experience and learned so much working with an excellent team in a busy newsroom. Now, I am taking the next step in my career as a broadcast journalist with Radio Kerry which is something I am really looking forward to. I have always been interested in radio work and was first introduced to working with Radio Kerry as part of my college placement with the Sports Team in 2012. During that time I really got a taste of the radio industry and I developed a love for the fast-paced environment that comes hand-in-hand with it. I am very excited to now be starting the next chapter of my career with Radio Kerry.

Did you always plan to have a career in Journalism…. It wasn't until sixth year that I started thinking about a future career. I always planned to go to college but I hadn't given too much thought as to what exactly I wanted to study.

Initially I was very unsure what I wanted to do because there are so many options available, and it is difficult to try and plan your whole future at such a young age.

To help me decide I looked towards my interests - I always loved English and had an interest in both news and sports reporting from a young age so I started researching journalism courses because I felt it would be something I would enjoy doing.

I came across the Journalism and New Media course in UL and was delighted to secure a place there following my Leaving Certificate exams in 2010. My family have always been hugely supportive of me and encouraged me to follow my dreams. My parents have always been very hard working and it is something they have passed on to 54 | Connect Kerry | September 2018

their children. They have supported me in everything I have ever wanted to do and have helped me in so many ways to get to where I am today.

What typically does your job Involve….

I am lucky that my job is very interesting and I am constantly learning something new from the people I meet. Each day, I seek out news stories and conduct interviews with people in all parts of Kerry on a variety of issues. I carry out interviews both faceto-face and over the phone and write up articles to share with the Kerry community.

As part of my job, I get to cover all topics from community events to breaking news so it is always very interesting. Over the past four years, I have met so many inspiring people and I have been very fortunate that people have been willing to share their stories with myself and the Kerry community.

What skills do you consider necessary for a career in journalism… Journalism is very fast-paced, particularly now that social media has become so popular for news consumption, so it is important to have strong time management and organisational skills. Reporters cover numerous stories, all at the same time, so it is vital that you can properly manage your time and be organised to ensure you meet deadlines.

Good communication skills are also a very important part of the job. You need to be a good listener and be able to communicate someone's story clearly and correctly to your audience.

Fact checking is the most important part of the job. In college I was taught to triple check everything to be sure it is correct!

Being resilient is also a good quality to have.

There are always times that reporters must cover difficult stories or local tragedies - and while they are tough to cover, unfortunately it is part of the job. It is also important to be respectful and sensitive to others when covering such stories.

Having a friendly demeanour and being a people-person are also good qualities to have. Being a reporter in a local media establishment, you are constantly meeting people and you need to have a good way with them.

When did you first become passionate about your Journalism… My passion for the job definitely grew when I was on work

placement in 2012 with The Kerryman and with Radio Kerry. I got first-hand experience of local and community news, which is something I love, and it was then I knew I was on the right career path. My work placement also gave me experience of working in two busy newsrooms, which I really enjoyed and looked forward to each day.

What do you love about your job….

I love meeting people and hearing about their life stories. For me it is always a privilege for people to open up and share their stories with me, particularly the more personal ones. Sharing a personal story also helps other people who are or have been through a similar experience and it is always an honour for me to be able to deliver that story to such a wide audience.

As part of my job I get to meet so many people from all parts of the county and it still amazes me how selfless people can be and the different lengths people will go to for the betterment of their community. I come across something new every day and I love that I am constantly learning through my work.

Advice for those making career choices now…. I have been very lucky in my career so far and I wouldn't change anything. I have continued to learn and develop which has made me the person I am today.

However, I think for people who are finishing school and looking to their future that it is important to realise that there are so many options available. If you don't get the points you hoped for; there are always other ways to get into the course you want, or to still pursue the career you always wished for. If your original plans doesn't work out don't panic, as there are always ways to get where you want to be.

My advice is to pursue a career in something you are interested in and work hard to make it possible.

I would also encourage people to pick a career around their interests because it is so important to be happy in your chosen career - if you love what you are doing, you will love getting up and going to work each day!

Mary Lucey may be contacted at MaryLucey@kerryfe.ie or at 066-7121741.

Connect ONLINE BY: KEN TOBIN, Marketing Strategy Consultant

BIG DATA & LOCAL RETAIL First off, it’s not as complicated as it sounds ‘Data’ is quite simply ‘knowledge’ – the more you have the more powerful your business can be. Big Data is just a lot of knowledge.

Large corporations and online retailers have been using Big Data for years to track customer spending habits, manage inventory and track browsing habits. Data is now something that’s quite accessible to smaller businesses to improve their business. Using Data combined with your local knowledge and intuition of your customer’s habits is a powerful weapon to combat large online retailers.

To give you an example, if you own a Pharmacy and you notice that on days with high humidity you sell quite a bit of a certain brand of hair-conditioner. One thing your Data system could do is analyse the weather trends, anticipate when humidity would be high and automatically link with your online advertising to promote to a target audience.

Ken Tobin is a Marketing Strategy Consultant, offering Marketing Management and Social Media Advice for Businesses, Groups and Organisations weebizmedia@gmail.com 086 8162105 (Ken) www.weebizmedia.com

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Connect | Business

EXPLAINING THE PROCESS OF MEDIATION Mediation is a process whereby an independent trained mediator assists parties to come to an agreement through collaboration. It helps the parties understand the reasons behind the conflict and agrees on ways of future interaction and behaviour. It is not about blame. The most important principles of mediation are: 1. Voluntariness: Both parties must enter into mediation voluntarily and are free to leave at any time.

2. Impartiality: The mediator remains impartial at all times and does not take any sides or make judgements.

Any agreements are made by the parties themselves.

3. Confidentiality: Discussions during the mediation process and any agreements remain confidential at all times unless both parties agree otherwise.

PROCESS OF MEDIATION There are two main stages in the process: 1. A meeting between the mediator and each party separately is conducted.

The purpose of this is to clarify the understanding of mediation, confirm voluntary commitment to the process, and ascertain what each party hopes to achieve through mediation.

2. A joint meeting is then facilitated. At the joint meeting the mediator assists communication, supports identifying of issues/needs, and facilitates both to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement. The parties explore the issues and how they could be addressed in order to find a way forward.

If the parties reach agreement, a ‘Mediated Agreement’ document is drawn up which outlines in detail all points which have been agreed. This is signed by both parties and remains confidential unless both parties request otherwise.

If mediation resolves the issues of both parties that is fantastic. However, if it is not successful in action within the workplace both parties have the right to revert and invoke to the other options in the grievance procedure.

If you require further information or advice on the above, please do not hesitate to contact us on (066)7102887.

58 | Connect Kerry | September 2018

College Tuition Fees Tax Relief As the College year is about to commence it is a timely reminder to make sure to claim Tax relief on 3rd Level fees.

Amount of Relief Tax Relief is at the standard tax rate of 20%, with a maximum amount of €7,000 per student. Please note, however, that the first the first €3,000 (full time course), or €1,500 (part-time course), is discarded.

In addition no relief is given for registration fees, examination fees, or administration fees.

Examples: My son is in College and I paid €2,500 in tuition fees, is any Tax Relief due?

No, as the amount which qualifies for relief does not exceed €3,000 therefore, no relief is due.

I have two Children in college and paid €7,000 in tuition fees, is any Tax Relief due?

Yes, Tax Relief is due on excess over €3,000 which is €4,000 as follows: €4,000 X 20% = €800 Tax Credit I have two children one in Private College and one doing a college course. Total of €12,000 paid in fees, am I due Relief?

Yes, provided the both courses are approved, Tax Relief would be available on the excess over €3,000; which is €9,000 as follows: €9,000 X 20% = €1,800 Tax Credit The maximum limited in the above case would be €14,000 (€7,000 per student)

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