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ISSUE 66 NOV/DEC20
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luxe-magazine.co.uk ISSUE 66 NOV/DEC20
W IN T E R WA R M E R S . Char i t y hero es . ROCKS TAR CH EFS . Festive menus. TAL K I N G T E E S S I D E . St argaz i ng ad vent ures. S TUNNING H O MES. Dazzling d e co r. B E AU T I F U L B LOOMS . Chr i st mas craf t s. G OL F. Mig hty motors. IS L A N D B R E A K S. Bi g names . LUX E.
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WELCOME
ISSUE 66 NOV/DEC20
contents 6>> Do this Time to plan ahead
16>> Our picks 10 things luxe is loving this season
18>> Dark skies And just like that, the year has come full circle and we’re adding a sprinkling of seasonal joy to our glossy pages. Leaf-crunching hikes become frosty strolls as we slow down, light the fire and prepare for all the festivities that the colder months bring. If this year has taught us anything, it has been to take some time out and appreciate the little things in life. And for us, that’s exactly what the merry season brings. Time to switch off for a while, tune into what makes us tick, and see the year out in style. We’re not afraid to admit that Christmas may be a little different this year, but let’s take it for what it is and really make it special. With that in mind, we’ve got inspiring interiors, winter warmers, big name interviews and good-for-the-soul food stories, to help get the show on the road. Our Festive Edit is packed full of dazzling decorations, glorious gift guides and magical moments to share with loved ones, as we head into the twinkly time of year. So, bundle up in your bubble and let winter work its magic as we cosy up and wind down or pivot to ensure we get the best out of party season.
An out-of-this-world adventure
23>> Fashion edit Winter warmers with Yves Salomon
34>> Beauty buys Michelle Cooper was recently awarded an MBE for her outstanding contribution to the community. The County Durham Community Foundation has been the lifeline for many charities and organisations throughout the pandemic. Michelle swapped corporate and creative careers to work with those in need. Her luxe things in life include: gadgets, her daughter and the beautiful landscapes of Teesdale.
The countdown to Christmas
36>> Natural beauty An indulgent home spa experience
40>> Northern gem Steph McGovern’s homecoming
44>> Rock on Christmas with a rockstar twist
50>> Island paradise A winter trip to Tresco
52>> Pooch perfect Dogs, decks and designer homes
58>> Gift guides Christmas shopping covered
64>> Christmas delivered Festive food on the move
68>> Beautiful blooms Get festive with Ruffled Flowers
Sending Luxe cheer your way this Christmas. We’ll see you in 2021. Remember to check in with us online at luxe-magazine.co.uk See us on social at: Twitter: @TheLuxeMagazine Instagram: @theluxemagazine Facebook: @luxemag
THE LUXE TEAM Christopher March publisher chris@remembermedia.co.uk EDITORIAL Elysia Fryer head of content elysia@remembermedia.co.uk Matthew Thomas matthew@remembermedia.co.uk Nicole Wood nicole@remembermedia.co.uk SALES Debi Coldwell director debi@remembermedia.co.uk Tanya Harper tanya@remembermedia.co.uk Claudia Robinson claudia@remembermedia.co.uk Chris Turner chris@digitalallies.co.uk
72>> Interior inspo Seasonal style for the home
76>> Green days Our luxe golf round-up Lewis Power is a cool creative from the coast. His industrial design expertise has led to him being recognised on an international level, picking up the Rising Star 2020 Editors Choice Award at the Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair. His luxe things in life include: cats, his trusty Bose headphones and strolls along Saltburn beach at sunset.
80>> Mighty motors Checking in with Performance 28
Our partners
PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson nicky@kgphotography.co.uk DESIGN David Stubbs creative director dave@remembermedia.co.uk If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team on: 0191 500 7860
Remember Media Ltd, Enterprise House, Kingsway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 OSR remembermedia.co.uk All contents copyright ©2020 RememberMedia Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, November 2020.
The worlds of food and rock ‘n’ roll collide when catching up with Sarah Muir. As The Archers Cookery School prepares to host a whole load of fabulously festive workshops, we get a behind-the-scenes look at her colourful career. Her luxe things in life include: touring the world, her mum - who planted the cookery school seed - and the ability to find clarity and contentment with age.
luxe is published bi-monthly by Remember Media Ltd
NOV/DEC20
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LUXE LOVES
LUXE LOVES Dreamy days Tutti & Co is a lifestyle brand inspired by the natural surroundings of the North East coastline, so when we heard they were back with an advent calendar for 2020, we were over the moon. Elegantly designed, gold metallic doors will open to reveal daily desirables to help you live a beautiful life. ÂŁ99, tuttiandco.com
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NOV/DEC20
DO THIS
Stay in >> go out >> enjoy Cool stuff to see you through the colder months. Ellena Blythe has our winter diaries covered…
17-19 NOVEMBER The big blue awaits. The Ocean Film Festival World Tour is splashing into the UK with its first-ever virtual event. This November, ocean enthusiasts can witness marine life and incredible seafaring adventures from the comfort of their own home. From adventurous ocean rowers to scientists living alongside majestic polar bears, this brand-new collection of short films stars intriguing characters who have dedicated their lives to the open waters. It’s time to settle in for an evening of mesmerising ocean-themed films. A cinematic masterpiece you won’t want to miss. oceanfilmfestival.co.uk
12 DECEMBER The Saltburn Farmers’ Market is back just in time for the festive break - and it’s the news we’ve all been waiting to hear. Wrap up warm and head to the coast to support the finest independent traders from across the region. Have a wonder with a mulled wine and a mince pie in hand, stock up on local produce and meet the region’s creatives. saltburnfarmersmarket.com
10-13 & 17-20
DECEMBER
In our October issue we gave you the lowdown on North Shields Fish Quay’s coolest new venue, Salt Market Social. This winter, we’re heading back for a feel-good, foodie knees-up. Here’s all you need to know... time to kick off the holiday season with a weekend full of street food, craft beers and live music. This once neglected marine supply factory on the Fish Quay has been renovated with its history in mind, curating nautical vibes with a laid back atmosphere. Every month is different with ever-rotating DJs and live bands to cater to all ages. Expect anything from 60s to modern day indie music. Pair it with some of the finest independent foodie traders and you are guaranteed good times in your bubble this December. saltmarketsocial.co.uk
THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER 10 Minutes To... Call Home is a thrilling mix of online 10 minute plays by the hottest new writing talent, brought to you by Newcastle’s Live Theatre. Head over to the Live Theatre’s YouTube channel this November and check out the short and snappy, thought-provoking pieces of theatre that champion some of the North East’s finest dramatic talent. A virtual must-see this winter. live.org.uk
UNTIL 28 FEBRUARY 2021 Martin Kinnear is an extraordinarily talented artist from the North East, who is best known for being awarded 2018 Medaille D’argent from The Salon Des Beaux Art, Paris. In his most recent work, Regeneration, Kinnear reflects on the year COVID-19 took over. This hopeful piece focuses on change and determination, with a 16-foothigh animation inspired by High Force Waterfall in Teesdale. Visit The Bowes Museum to explore this optimistic exhibition. thebowesmuseum.org.uk
3 DECEMBER Let Playhouse Whitley Bay bring the Christmas party to your living room this December with That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show LIVE 2020. The festive, rock ‘n’ roll show has been running for over 30 years - and it’s not about to stop. While the show is unable to tour, the Playhouse is giving theatre-lovers the chance to stream the fun live from the comfort of your own home. The pre-recorded show will include all of the best pop Christmas classics and traditional tunes, backed up by hilarious comedy sketches and a live interactive Q&A with fan favourite, Trevor. A rollercoaster sleigh ride through the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll and pop. Don’t miss it! playhousewhitleybay.co.uk
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UNTIL 18 APRIL 2021 BALTIC will host Lithuanian duo, Pakui Hardware, to share their first solo exhibition in the UK from 28 November until 18 April 2021. Their work focuses on how capitalism influences our realities through technology, materials and bodies. This inspiring exhibition explores questions around regenerative medicine, imagining potential futures where synthetic biology divides human beings from our own vessels, to transcend our material restrictions. A must for a rainy day in the city. baltic.art
NOV/DEC20
The north east’s first in bespoke affordable interiors 10TH AVENUE WEST | TEAM VALLEY | NE11 0HL | 0191 491 3836 OPPOSITE RETAIL WORLD G R E ATLOOK . C O. U K
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Taking the positives…
It’s been a tough year, to say the least, but Fine & Country have adapted to life in the ‘new normal’ by taking the digital world by storm. From COVID-secure procedures to virtual viewings and tech-savvy valuations, 2020 has turned out to be quite the success
11 & 18 DECEMBER
Calling all foodies. You are invited to dine with Marc Williams at the charming Swinton Cookery School. This unique and intimate Festive Chef’s Table experience will entertain and enlighten guests about the wonderful world of cooking with a Christmassy twist. Indulge in a festive three-course meal including locally-sourced, seasonal vegetables and a glass of fizz for good measure. Lunch and dinner experiences are both available. Book your place for just £58pp. swintonestate.com
1 DECEMBER Renowned for his bold style, confident cynicism and nonconformist attitude, comedy favourite Stewart Lee will kickstart December with an evening of guaranteed giggles at The Stand Comedy Club. For over two decades, the BAFTA winner has delivered hilarious material to audiences across the UK, and now he’s back on tour, swinging by the North East venue this December. Don’t miss it. thestand.co.uk
Let’s take a closer look… Fine & Country’s smart viewing service allows you to conduct a professional property viewing virtually. Using this forwardthinking service ensures you can present your properties digitally and, as their property professional, guide potential buyers around a property tailoring the viewing to their needs. The specially designed conference viewing platform puts you in control as the navigator and allows you to build relationships with your customers, showcase your expertise and offer a COVID-secure first viewing. Simple, safe and effective. The virtual valuation service gathers detailed property information from potential vendors, to help you deliver an accurate, virtual valuation. By asking for more information from your vendors, such as recently completed work, images and any special features, i-valuate is a purely digital, automated service that allows you to gain a true insight into a property. The step-by-step platform concludes by booking a valuation appointment with potential customers, helping you to fill your diary.
For your 2021 diary >>
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JANUARY
Don your tartan and dust off your pipes for a Burns Night extravaganza at the Lord Crewe Arms, Blanchland. Follow the piper into the Bishop’s Dining Room for a theatrical recital of the poetry of Robbie Burns, followed by a Scottish three-course supper with haggis and whisky aplenty. Book your tickets in advance and start the new year in style. lordcrewearmsblanchland.co.uk
Throughout the on-going coronavirus pandemic, the Government has released a vast amount of new information and introduced a variety of guidelines on how businesses should be run as a result of COVID-19. To make it as easy as possible for you to stay on top of these changes Paul Offley, from Fine & Country, has created a wealth of best practices, checklists and actions to keep your business secure, from a moving home process document to a risk assessment and operating template. If this year has taught us anything, it’s to always take the positives with the negatives. Let’s see what 2021 has in store…
Adrienne Dobson, Regional Sales Manager Fine & Country, Wynyard The Wynd, Wynyard, TS22 5QQ adriennedobson@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk Tel: 01740 645444
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UNTIL 27 FEBRUARY
Don’t miss the chance to see the Laing Art Gallery’s groundbreaking exhibition, Art Deco by the Sea. The first major UK exhibitions exploring how Art Deco style transformed the British seaside during the 1920s and 30s, this collection celebrates an iconic time in our country’s history and development. An art form synonymous with the pleasure and leisure boom, coastal resorts across the country were modernised with new attractions and transport networks to meet the demands of a new age in mass tourism. laingartgallery.org.uk
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MARCH
The creative folk at Hey Ho & Co. in Saltburn are hosting a three-hour monoprinting workshop suitable for beginners, and it’s a must for those looking to take up a new project or hobby in 2021. A ticket to the workshop is also a fantastic gift idea for the creatives amongst us, so bag a place before Christmas and give them something to look forward to at the turn of the year. For just £40pp, you’ll learn to use the press machine and create a variety of prints with dried flowers and wild foliage. heyhoprintco.uk
NOV/DEC20
TURNKEY LIVING www.architects-group.com DESIGNING THE NEW COUNTRY HOMES OF TOMORROW
Order online at lucypittaway.co.uk
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Luxe reads changes in her life would have made her happier, more fulfilled or successful. As her time in the library runs out, she must decide which choices result in the best way to live. This is a stunningly beautiful novel. You’ll question every decision you’ve ever made while reading it but end with a life-affirming certainty about what really matters. CRIME >> Dawn McGuigan is a life-long bookworm, based in Houghton-le-Spring. She studied English Literature at Northumbria University and has been running her Book and Brew book club since 2015. She has shadow judged at the Women’s Prize for Fiction and Man Booker Prize, and has appeared on BBC Radio 2’s Book Club.
Five of the best books of 2020 >> 2020 has been a bumper year for books. During lockdown, time spent reading almost doubled, with crime and thrillers on the top of most people’s reading lists. New books were put on hold in summer, but September saw one of the biggest publishing days ever as over 600 titles hit the shelves in one day. I’ve picked five books that offer romance, thrills and thought-provoking narratives in their exceptional storytelling. They also make for a great Christmas gift if Santa needs a subtle hint. POPULAR FICTION >> One August Night by Victoria Hislop £14.99, Headline Review This much-awaited sequel to The Island returns to Spinalonga to follow the aftermath of the closure of its leper colony. We’re reunited with sisters Anna and Maria and find out what happened to them when the island was evacuated. Hislop’s love of Greece and its people fills every page, and this is the perfect escapist novel if you want to imagine the warm sun on your face. LITERARY FICTION >> The Midnight Library by Matt Haig £14.99, Canongate Nora Seed finds herself between life and death in the Midnight Library. She has a chance to do things differently, to see if small
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Rules for Perfect Murders by Peter Swanson £12.99, Faber & Faber A series of unsolved murders are linked by a resemblance to the killings featured in eight classic mystery novels. Those killings are described in a blog post by bookshop owner Malcolm Kershaw, which leads the police to pin him as the prime suspect. This is a devilishly clever thriller packed with twists, turns and playful references to vintage crime fiction. It will keep you on the edge of your seat and you’ll not be disappointed by the dramatic climax. HISTORICAL FICTION >> Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell £20, Tinder Press This is the story of a set of twins. The boy dies (that’s not a spoiler, don’t worry!) and the girl has to come to terms with his loss. It’s set in 1596 and is based on the death of Shakespeare’s son Hamnet, whose name was given the most famous play in the world, Hamlet. O’Farrell won the Women’s Prize for Fiction for this extraordinary novel about love, loss and duty. Its exploration of the plague echoes our current battle with COVID-19. NON-FICTION >> A Life on our Planet by David Attenborough £20, Ebury Press This book is David Attenborough’s witness statement to the decline of biodiversity he has seen during his career. He carefully lays out the mistakes we’ve made and how we can - if we act together and act quickly - restore the planet’s natural resources. It’s a powerful manifesto for change and collective responsibility; both qualities we should eagerly embrace in 2021.
Get festive >> UNTIL 6 DECEMBER
This year’s Durham Christmas Festival is going digital - and it’s a fantastic way to shop local in the run up to the big day. The virtual festivities will feature a whole load of small, independent traders and craftspeople offering some incredibly unique gifting ideas for loved ones this Christmas. Head over to the website below and stay tuned for further updates from 27 November. durhamchristmasfestival.com
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6, 13 & 20 DECEMBER Treat the family to a fabulous festive feast at Rockliffe Hall as Santa heads to The Rockliffe Suite on 13 and 20 December. The Sunday Lunch with Santa event includes a two-course meal, plus the opportunity for little ones to meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto. What’s more? Children will receive a gift to take home. Adults £35pp, children £25pp. rockliffehall.com
DECEMBER
Craft a Christmas wreath from the comfort of your own home this year thanks to Katie Jane’s Virtual Christmas Door Wreath Workshop on Saturday 5 December at 6.30pm. Katie will provide you with all the creative tools you need for your masterpiece - delivered to your door a couple of days before the workshop. You will then join a live session where you will be able to turn your festive Pinterest board into reality. A chance to bring your Christmas traditions to life at home with The Wedding Industry Awards’ National Florist of the Year 2020. katie-jane.co.uk
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DECEMBER
Join Susie Hart at Swinton Park’s Deer House this December as she guides guests through a day of arts and crafts accompanied by a two-course lunch from the foodie folk at Samuel’s Restaurant. A fantastic opportunity to wow friends and family this Christmas as you create your very own fresh garland or table centerpiece, incorporating some of the most spectacularly festive foliage. swintonestate.com
7&8
DECEMBER
Our friends at Luna Blu Cocktails & Tapas in Yarm have teamed up with Titt for Tatt Handmade Crafts to host a wonderful wreath making class to get you ready for the festivities. But this one has an exciting twist - it comes, not only with mulled wine and prosecco - but tapas, too! Craft your very own wreath to hang in your home while filling up on a selection of scrumptious small plates. Round up the bubble and book your place now for £65pp. lunablu.co.uk
UNTIL 24 DECEMBER Get that enchanting Christmas market feeling at Fenwick Newcastle. Let this magical shopping experience get you in the spirit with plenty of dazzling decorations, secret Santa hampers and gorgeous gifts galore at Fenwick Christmas Market. Head to the Food Hall for a glass of the good stuff at Fuego, refuel with a bit of festive afternoon tea at Café 21 and fill your bags with seasonal buys. fenwick.co.uk
THROUGHOUT DECEMBER Oh yes there will be a panto this year! We are delighted to hear that our friends at Theatre Royal Newcastle have done everything in their power to bring a panto extravaganza to the North East this Christmas. While things may be a little different, it’s wonderful to hear that the theatre’s lights are on and some familiar faces will be gracing the stage. With support from The National Lottery, the panto team are putting plans in place to spread some festive cheer across the city. Grab your merry men and women, and get ready for a socially-distanced pantomime like never before, in a sheriff-busting, arrow-shooting production of Robin Hood. Bubble tickets are available for groups of 2-6 and the panto willl be performed in one act, but we’re expecting an equally funny, thrilling and fabulously festive show! theatreroyal.co.uk
NOV/DEC20
ADVERTORIAL
Make 2020 a less taxing year This year, make the best use of tax reliefs and allowances to help secure your financial future and the inheritance you leave to your loved ones
Well over a decade since the financial crisis, the world is still a very uncertain place. Until recently, investors enjoyed the benefits of a strong bull run by stock markets around the world, coupled with low volatility1. But it is always wrong to believe that market shocks are a thing of the past. From uncertainty over Brexit to trade wars, and now of course to COVID-19, there are always many risks that pose a challenge to investors at any given time; and any number of unforeseen factors in the years to come. But these are beyond our control; they cannot be allowed to prevent us from planning our financial futures. Indeed, we will give ourselves the best chance of achieving our financial goals if we focus on what we can control: how and where we invest our money, how much tax we pay, the size of our retirement fund, and how much of our estate passes to our family free of Inheritance Tax (IHT). Effective financial planning should be a year-round activity. Valuable reliefs and allowances can help to create long-term financial security for ourselves and our family. ISAS >> ISAs have become one of the most popular ways to save, principally because they are simple and readily accessible. The substantial increase in the ISA allowance to £20,000 was a very welcome step in encouraging individuals to invest for their future. However, as interest rates
in the UK are lower than ever, money being held in Cash ISAs is failing to achieve the very basic objective of keeping pace with inflation. The result is real losses for savers. Those who are investing their ISA allowance for the long term – in assets offering the scope for attractive levels of income and capital growth – are giving themselves a better chance of maximising the tax-saving opportunities on offer. Individuals yet to use their ISA allowance, or with accumulated ISA savings, need to carefully consider their options to ensure that they are maximising this valuable opportunity to generate tax-efficient capital and income for the future. PENSIONS >> Saving into a pension is an even more attractive prospect than it was a few years ago. This is because there is much greater freedom for taking benefits; and pension savings can now be more easily left as part of a tax-free inheritance. However, the advantages extend further than just drawing benefits and passing money on to loved ones: the government still rewards savers by giving them tax relief on their pension contributions. Subject to certain limitations, for every 80p you contribute to a pension, the government automatically adds 20p in tax relief. Higher earners can claim extra tax relief through their annual tax return, so a £1 pension contribution can effectively cost just 60p. While tax relief is seen as a means to encourage pension saving, the annual cost to the Exchequer of providing it is around £40 billion2. With the government
under increasing pressure to reduce public spending, there’s no guarantee that the higher rates of tax relief will be maintained into the future. Those wishing to make their retirement plans a reality should consider fully utilising their annual allowance for this tax year to make the most of the tax breaks on offer. Unused allowances can be carried forward, but only from the three previous tax years. This financial year is the final chance for pension savers to use the 2017/18 allowance. INHERITANCE TAX >> There are few more confusing – or unpopular – taxes than IHT. But continued confusion and inertia means that the Office for Budget Responsibility expects to see a 19% increase in IHT revenues over the next four years3. However, there are a number of exemptions that allow individuals to reduce future bills. Perhaps the best known is the annual gifting allowance, which gives individuals the opportunity to remove £3,000 of assets from their estate immediately (£6,000 if they use the previous year’s allowance as well). Taking steps to reduce your taxable estate by topping up a child’s pension or Junior ISA could go a long way to providing them with an invaluable head start in life. The Junior ISA allowance rose from £4,368 to £9,000 on 6 April 2020. Also, make this year’s £3,000 gifting allowance count – and carry forward last year’s, if you haven’t used it already. It’s a time of the year when individuals and couples are given an opportunity to put their long-term plans back on track by using reliefs and allowances that would otherwise be lost. Nevertheless, this requires some knowledge and expertise. That’s why you should speak with a financial adviser to better understand how you can gain maximum advantage for this year and the years to come.
CBOE Volatility Index (‘VIX’), accessed 5 September 2019 2 HM Revenue and Customs, ‘Estimated Costs of Tax Reliefs’, October 2019 3 Office for Budget Responsibility, Economic and fiscal outlook – March 2019 1
If you feel you would benefit from a financial review of your individual requirements, I offer a no obligation telephone or zoom meeting to suit each individual need at a time convenient to you. Please contact Patrick McLaughlin Wealth Management on 0191 5482830 or email patrick.mclaughlin@sjp.co.uk.
To receive a complimentary guide covering wealth management, retirement planning or Inheritance Tax planning, contact Patrick McLaughlin on 0191 5482830 or email Patrick.mclaughlin@sjp.co.uk The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select, value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested. An investment in equities does not provide the security of capital associated with a deposit account with a bank or building society.
The Partner 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: jp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the title ‘Partner’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.
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GOOD STUFF
Sweet charity Good things going on in the North East, our Luxe charity round-up… CHANGE IS GOOD >>
FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD >> North East-based social enterprise, Cook Yourself Happier, has received funding from The National Lottery Community Fund to help people improve their mental health through cooking and food. The money raised will be used to create a series of podcasts and recipe videos, using ingredients proven to invoke a positive change in mental health and wellbeing. Founded by chef Catriona Macdougall, Cook Yourself Happier was launched in 2016 as a way for Catriona to share her experiences of food and cooking, and help her manage her own bipolar diagnosis. Catriona and the team aim to support people affected by mental health issues by helping them to prepare healthy, delicious meals and learn new cooking techniques. Stay tuned on the Cook Yourself Happier website and prepare to get involved in some seriously delicious foodie goodness. cookyourselfhappier.com
IN IT TO WIN IT >> Give a little love to our region’s favourite good causes with the Great Northern Raffle. Created in response to the coronavirus pandemic to help local charities at a time when they need it most, particularly after many traditional ‘live’ fundraising events have been cancelled, this new initiative invites supporters to enter a free monthly raffle via text message, with the option to leave a voluntary donation. Many fantastic North East charities will benefit from the draw each month, with a great array of prizes up for grabs including overnight stays, hampers and vouchers. The Middleton Foundation, founded by entrepreneur and philanthropist, Jeremy Middleton, will collect and distribute the donations to the charities. He said: “It is our hope that the Great Northern Raffle will provide a real boost to our region’s charities at a time when many are facing their biggest challenge to date in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Now is the time for the North East to throw its weight behind the amazing organisations that do so much good for local people and communities across the region. My message - you’ve got to be in it to win it, so text now!” Visit the website below for more information on how you can take part. charityescapes.com/the-great-northern-raffle
The Verve Group, headed up by Cathi Harrison, have launched a new not-for-profit initiative, ‘We Are Change’, aimed at building capacity across all levels and roles within financial services. The initiative is designed to actively encourage new talent to join an industry on the cusp of a revolution. The impact of COVID-19 means millions of people are expected to be looking for new jobs in the coming months, and it’s anticipated the fall-out will still being felt years later. ‘We Are Change’ is a trainingdrive to attract and train up individuals in order to build capacity across the industry. Their tried and tested training framework will support individuals to achieve the CII Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning as well as equipping them with the necessary practical skills needed for a range of roles including paraplanning, advice, compliance and financial administration. The training opportunity is aimed at potential new recruits, who’ll go through a rigorous recruitment and selection process, and have the option to study full-time. The Verve Group is calling on everyone in financial services, from advice firms to asset managers and product providers, to pledge to sponsor as many new entrants to financial services as possible. There’s no minimum commitment, it’s entirely down to the company and their commitment to growing the industry into a profession. Want to get involved? Check out the We Are Verve website and see how you can help. weareverve.co.uk/change
WEDDING BELLS >> IT’S A GIN THING >> Let us introduce you to ‘a spirit of adventure’. The Northwest Passage Expedition Gin is steeped in history and brimming with record-breaking ambition. All proceeds from the gin sales will fund ‘The Last Great First’ - a 2021 maritime navigation of the Northwest Passage by human power - the ultimate ocean row. North East native, Phil Kite, and the Northwest Passage team are raising £1m for their expedition to be the first to row the iconic passage from Baffin Island to Alaska. They’re reaching out to individuals and businesses big and small to support the challenge and raise awareness. One way our Luxe readers can support Phil and his team, is by purchasing a bottle of the Northwest Passage Expedition Gin - a craft gin flavoured with botanicals from the shores of Orkney and the Hudson Bay in Canada, to transport us back to the ‘Age of Discovery’ - when lime was added to the daily gin ration of the men of the Royal Navy to help combat scurvy. Distilled from ingredients associated with the Arctic’s Northwest Passage, it represents the ultimate ocean row. Check it out. nwp2021.com
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In the early stages of planning your dream wedding? Local autism charity, Daisy Chain, are here to help. After a turbulent year, the charity is doing what it does best - putting smiles on faces - by giving a North East couple the chance to win their dream wedding at Hardwick Hall Hotel. To be in with the chance of winning, entrants must raise a minimum of £1,000 for the charity, which will bag them a ticket in the raffle draw. The winning prize - a luxurious wedding package - includes everything from venue, catering and overnight stay at Hardwick, plus a wedding dress provided by Bridal Factory Outlet in Northallerton, bridal hair package by Be Premiere Hair, groom and groomsmen suit provided by Psyche Middlesbrough, wedding cars by Classic Wedding Cars NE and Sytner Mercedes Benz of Teesside, photography by Matthew Wright Photography, flowers by Sweet William Floral Design and much, much more. Neeraj Shjarma, Chief Executive at Daisy Chain, said: “The funds raised will be reinvested in our services here at Daisy Chain, helping to provide much-needed support and advice for people living with autism in their families. Now more than ever, we need to find innovative ways for generating income, and this has definitely been an off-the-wall idea.” daisychainproject.co.uk/win-a-wedding
NOV/DEC20
treehouse membership Enjoy all that ramside hall has to offer with our Treehouse membership. The perfect residential package so you can enjoy the full Ramside Hall experience.
our treehouse membership includes packages available of 30, 40 or 70 treehouse nights
breakfast in fusion restaurant
available all year round
free full spa access & unlimited golf with every stay
For further information contact our Flexible Membership Sales direct on treehousemembership@ramsidehallhotel.co.uk 0191 375 3078
treehouse membership Taking luxury to new heights
LOCAL HEROES
In October, Michelle Cooper, Chief Executive at County Durham Community Foundation, was awarded an MBE for her outstanding contribution to the community - the icing on the cake after a very busy and incredibly rewarding period
Community is key There’s no doubt about it, this year has been incredibly tough - particularly for charities and those in need. But for Michelle Cooper and her team at County Durham Community Foundation, it’s been a time to really showcase what they do best - putting smiles on faces by giving
then a little bit of embarrassment is well worth it,” she smiles. “I had to have a debate with a few close friends as to whether I accepted it because it’s not about me. I’m not one for taking the praise. But I was rightly convinced to take it on behalf of the foundation and the groups that we’ve worked with along the way.” During a very busy time, which has seen
back to the local community. County Durham Community Foundation manages over 200 charitable funds and offers much-needed grants to charities, individuals and organisations - covering everything from mental health, to those with disabilities and financial difficulties. Such grants are made possible by the generosity of individuals and local businesses. The foundation is built on teamwork; and its the foundation staff, charities, local people and businesses that form the beating heart of that team. Michelle heads up that team, but insists the foundation’s work comes down to everyone involved, as we sit down to talk about her recent appearance on the Queen’s Birthday Honours list. “Not very gracefully,” Michelle laughs as I ask how she received the news. “I’m a huge believer in team playing nothing is about an individual - so as you can imagine, it was tough for me to stand in the limelight. “But if this MBE helps to shine a light on the hundreds of special people in the region who make a difference in our communities,
the foundation award £1.2m to the local community in just 120 days, it’s certainly a welcome reward - and a fantastic way to shout about their efforts. “And that, for me, is why this is all so important - because we have done an amazing job. “When the going got tough, we unlocked loads of funding and we got vital grants to help people help others. “We’ve been there in a crisis and we’ll be there for the whole journey, helping communities get through this pandemic.” The foundation celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, and looking back at its remarkable achievements, Michelle is incredibly proud to be a part of it. “We have awarded over £46m over the years. We’ve been doing what we do for a long, long time, but now is the time to really reach out and change lives. “We’re making a real effort to big-up our stories, because they say so much about what we do as a foundation. There’s a lovely story about a young girl who first started going to Brandon Boxing Club aged five. She is now 12-years-old and was one of
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the first people to go back to the club when the lockdown restrictions eased and it was able to open up again. We helped fund the reopening of the club with sanitisers and signs - all of these extra costs that businesses were suddenly facing in order to operate. “I just love Grace’s story. Her whole life has been informed by the disciplines and friendships formed at that club - as well as the opportunity to travel internationally for tournaments. “We’ve supported that charity over a period of 15 years, and I think that says a lot about what a community foundation does. It doesn’t just support you once and walk away, it is there with you for the journey and in this case, that journey is encapsulated in that young girl. It’s a fantastic thing to be a part of, it really is.” So, how can individuals and businesses offer their support? “By giving, fundamentally,” says Michelle. “One of the things we’re always really keen to stress is that anything that anyone can give makes a difference. “We gave one grant out recently and they reported back to say they helped 750 people from £4,200 - which works out at about £5 per person. It just proves how one little intervention can have a huge impact on somebody’s life. “People can give through our website they can give as little as £1, they can give as much as £100,000. The foundation can accommodate all of that. You can create
>> Grace Kenny has been boxing with Brandon Boxing Club since the age of five. In that time, she has won gold medals, made friends and received mentoring from older girls such as talented boxer, Megan Bainbridge, who also trains at the club.
your own personal fund, or you can give into a generic fund that we distribute on behalf of a collective of donors. “Some businesses create funds with us. They decide to give through us because they recognise that we know hundreds of groups embedded within the local community and that we can get that funding to where it’s needed most.” And how easy is it to apply for a grant? “Incredibly easy,” Michelle explains. “What is wonderful about working in the community is the power of cross-referrals - and of course, social media. People share our stories, which encourages others to visit our website, where they can fill out a simple application form.” What is so incredibly unique about giving to a community foundation, is the ability to see exactly where your donations are going. “The foundation is not about us,” says Michelle. “We have the easy bit - we get the money, we give it to groups - they do the amazing stuff with it. Our job is about ensuring that we tell that story to the donor. We arrange visits so people can see exactly who they’ve supported and how it has made a difference. “Sometimes there’s a lovely backstory, sometimes they’re really tough stories to hear, and sometimes it’s just about putting a smile on someone’s face for a little while. “Those are the stories we are trying to tell. To bring everybody’s efforts to life. Giving - and giving locally - really does make a difference.” cdcf.org.uk
FACTS & FIGURES >> >> The foundation awarded £1.3m to local communities in just 120 days >> The foundation supported 250,000 people across the Tees Valley and County Durham throughout the pandemic >> 36% helped people manage loneliness, mental health, wellbeing and staying connected >> 42% went on practical support for isolated, vulnerable people >> £140,000 of the money raised during lockdown helped keep the lights on and the doors open for 30 organisations, providing services and support to more than 30,000 people in need >> 22% supported groups to adapt their service >> Need for what the foundation does went up by 600% overnight NOV/DEC20
LOCAL HEROES
Michelle Cooper MBE, 50, is Chief Executive at County Durham Community Foundation. She is flourishing as a mid-lifer, moving from corporate and creative careers, to an inspiring job that focuses on supporting our community. Her advice to anyone making big changes in their personal and working lives is: ‘never be scared to have a go. Your journey may take you on a few detours, but it’s all part of the fun’.
GENERATION AGELESS I USED TO DO THIS... From Investment Director at Northstar Ventures and Product Development Manager for Pedigree and Whiskas, to Biochemistry at Edinburgh University, it’s safe to say that I’ve changed my path once or twice - but all of that has led me to where I am now, so I wouldn’t change it for the world. My advice would be to never be scared to have a go - even if it is something out of the ordinary - life is a learning curve. Over the years I’ve learnt that you have to really love what you do in order to be happy. Our career path is all about finding our purpose and finding happiness along the way. NOW LIFE IS ABOUT... County Durham Community Foundation – raising funds to support small grassroot community charities who do so much on so little budget. We raise money to give out grants to help groups that are so diverse in their activities. You name it, we support it - but you have probably never heard of them. All groups, communities and charities that we work with operate at the heart of their communities and make such a difference. WHY AND HOW I MADE A CHANGE... My experience of working with charities at Northstar was refreshing and so positive, despite the often difficult world charities operate in. A close family bereavement made me reflect on what I wanted to be doing
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with my life. Shortly afterwards, a job came up at the foundation, I applied last minute, and the rest is history. I never wanted to be a boss, but change was needed and this was such a perfect opportunity I would have been stupid not to. Having a great team makes being the boss much easier and more enjoyable. I’M LUCKY I CAN... Not really worry about anything – that is special in the current circumstances when you see people struggling through the pandemic. It may be difficult and stressful (home schooling in particular tested me), but I know so many other lives have been so badly affected, so I’m just grateful I can be healthy, happy and of service to our community. A DAY IN THE LIFE OF ME INVOLVES... Meetings, meetings and more meetings. We have to know what’s going on to work and respond effectively, so I do spend a great deal of time in meetings. Thankfully, they are the kind where decisions get made and things actually happen. I do like a walk in the evening to clear my head and spend some time with my family, but now that the dark nights are here, a bit of Strictly does the trick too. Through the week I like to talk with my team and hear what they’ve been doing outside of work. When they get a new dog, or pass an exam, or celebrate a milestone, it’s nice to share that good news.
THE PEOPLE WHO ARE IMPORTANT ARE... Family – having travelled extensively over the years with work, we have no close family up here. Everyone is dotted around the UK, the US and Kyrgyzstan. Online is great, but being able to spend time with my parents when restrictions eased - and seeing their faces light up - brought pure joy. They inspired the work ethic in me and gave up so much to give me and my brother the opportunities to do our utmost to live a happy, successful life. WORK/LIFE BALANCE... Is appalling! I used to commute from Durham to Newcastle and once had a four hour round trip commute (never again). Now, I live five minutes from work, do the school run, and make sure I enjoy quality family time in between. I THRIVE ON… Keeping busy but trying to find simple ways to navigate life and work. Too many things are over-complicated by others. I’VE GOT TIME FOR… People. Everything revolves around people - family, our team at the foundation, the groups we support, our donors. They’re all so special and make such a difference.
maybe I am just a little bit in denial! Being able to pivot and adapt is something we have all become familiar with in recent months; and in our working life, it’s something I’m quite passionate about particularly after all of the stresses that came with GCSE and A Level results this year. Your results don’t define you. You can do pretty much anything you want to. You might have to take a few detours along the way, but it’s all part of the fun. AND FINALLY, MY THREE LUXE THINGS IN LIFE... Gadgets - any gadget as it makes the scientist in me happy. My daughter - a character full of enthusiasm, joy and energy. Teesdale - long may it remain a beautiful, well-kept secret.
Everything revolves around people family, our team at the foundation, the groups we support, our donors...
WHAT MID-LIFE MEANS TO ME... Nothing. Five careers on, I am simply on to the next chapter. Age is just a number…
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WINTER PICKS
Dreaming of >> HUTS IN THE HILLS, NORTHUMBERLAND It might not be an Aperol on the beach, but how does a bubble bath under the stars sound? This winter we’re dreaming of a Christmassy stay in one of Huts in the Hills’ idyllic shepherd’s huts. Each hideout comes with far-reaching views over the spectacular Northumberland countryside, complete with a fire pit and an outdoor bath for stargazing while you soak. hutsinthehills.co.uk
10 things Luxe loves 10 things Luxe is loving this season...
Perfect scent >> DIPTYQUE FIGUIER CANDLE Looking for the perfect stocking-filler scent? This fabulously festive Diptyque candle smells of sweet, baked fig with woody notes and burns for up to 60 hours. It’s the ideal addition to the home on a dark, wintery night. Light a candle, pour yourself a glass of the good stuff and enjoy. Get yours from Fenwick Newcastle or York. £27 (70g). fenwick.co.uk
Pampering with >>
Kitchen inspo >> PIKES AT ROCKETT ST GEORGE TRADITIONAL FAUX LEATHER BAR TRUNK ON CASTORS Ensure the Christmas camaraderie still goes ahead with a vintage-inspired wine bar for your bubble at home. Display your favourite glassware, store spirits and showcase fine wines to family and friends this festive season. Add character to any home with this distinctive, chic dining accessory. £595. rockettstgeorge.co.uk
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LIZ EARL HYDRATING CREAM MASK Suitable for all skin types, this brand new hydrating mask is one to add to your Christmas list. Infused with shea butter, apricot kernel oil and borage seed oil, this cream mask nourishes the skin for up to 72 hours. A reliable source for smooth and soft skin during the harsh, winter months. £20. uk.lizearle.com
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WINTER PICKS
Reading >> THE VANISHING HALF BY BRIT BENNETT Curl up on the sofa and settle in with this brilliant read. A story about the perception of race and identity, The Vanishing Half tells a tale of mixed-race twins whose lifestyles are far from identical. Brit Bennett takes us on a journey through the eyes of the girls while exploring themes of racial inequality and revealing how racism can impact someone’s standard of life. Definitely a must-read for the winter months ahead. £14.99. waterstones.com
In our basket >> RINO AND PELLE JOELA FAUX FUR COAT Feel fabulous in this long-line, luxurious faux fur coat whether it be over your work attire or paired with a sparkly dress during party season. This staple coat will ensure you look effortlessly stylish whatever the occasion. Available in a range of colours. £139. julesb.co.uk
Following >> ALBA LILY ARTISAN WOOL DESIGNS The best thing about the dark nights is cosying up with a chunky knit, right? We’re loving this feed full of chic, cosy stuff. Go here for interior inspiration, get those winter vibes with roaring log fires and pick up the perfect gifts for loved ones. Based in Saltburn, Suzanne hand-makes bespoke artisan wool designs in sumptuous colours. Check out her page and bring a little luxe wool to your winter wishlist. instagram.com/albalilydesigns
Watching >> THE CROWN Netflix Original drama, The Crown, follows the extraordinary life of Queen Elizabeth ll (Claire Foy), spanning from the 1940s to modern times. With lavish costumes, spectacular sets and mesmerising performances, this emotionally-charged biopic tells a cinematic story that can barely be contained on the small screen. We’re counting the days to the release of Season 4 (15 November), starring Emma Corrin as Princess Diana. netflix.com
Living by >> “For everything bad, there’s a million really exciting things. Whether it’s someone puts out a really great book, there’s a new movie, there’s a new detective, the sky is unbelievably golden, or you have the best cup of coffee you ever had in your life.” – Patti Smith
Listening to >> TEA WITH TWIGGY PODCAST Put the kettle on and enjoy a cup of tea with Twiggy - a new podcast born out of lockdown. Twiggy stays connected with some of her closest friends, including Elaine Page, Joanna Lumley, Myleene Klass and Alan Titchmarsh. Exploring all areas of life from classical theatre to fashion and film, this is a fascinating, feel-good podcast, perfect for hunkering down after a day at the home office. podcasts.apple.com
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SKY-HIGH
Oh, starry night We chased a rainbow and it led us to Kielder Observatory - the perfect out-ofthis-world experience for winter. Elysia Fryer watched the sun set over Northumberland to settle in for an evening of stargazing...
“Keep your face always toward the sunshine and shadows will fall behind you.” - Walt Whitman. This has always been a favourite quote of mine. It reminds me that all will be ok if we keep our head up and focus on what surrounds us rather than what consumes us. Yes, this quote is centred around the sun, but the same goes for the night sky - and actually, although a moonlit sky may not cast quite as many shadows, there is so much out there; so much to learn, so much to distract us, and so much to bring us back down to earth. So when looking for family activities to fill in the time while enjoying the great outdoors in the cooler months, we decided to take a leaf out of Walt Whitman’s book and turn our gaze to the sky. Time to explore the ‘Origins of the Universe’. Kielder Observatory has been on our radar for some time, but we were yet to book on to an event. And with Mars at its biggest and brightest in almost 20 years, there’s never been a better time to learn about our universe, its origins, and how it is shaping the future. Kielder Observatory sits within Kielder Water and Forest Park, an International Dark Sky Park and the second largest area of protected night sky in Europe. We’re incredibly lucky to have it on our doorstep, and there are some seriously inspiring people working on site and behind the scenes to ensure stargazing is as special as it should be. With hard-hitting estimations such as that 85% of the UK’s population have never seen
a truly dark sky or experienced the sense of wonder that a clear night filled with billions of stars can give, it’s their job to share this fascinating experience with us. A rugged track leads to the observatory, set at a height just a stone’s throw from Kielder Water; but our experience with nature begins well before we start the incline to this stargazing sanctuary. As we cruise along the winding roads of Kielder, making our way around the water, we begin to notice all that surrounds us - simply because it is such a remote route - so quiet, so peaceful, and so effortlessly gorgeous. The indecisive October weather means that we’re greeted to the Dark Sky Park with a rainbow - a full, sky-scraping beauty, leaping out of the water and falling into the hills. We chase the rainbow and on this occasion, our pot of gold is Kielder Observatory. Sunshine, storms, rainbows. As we ride through the dramatic change in seasons, we experience all the elements in this breathtaking natural environment. And the beauty isn’t about to stop. On arrival, we’re met in the car park and whisked into the main observatory building. Groups are small and social distancing is easy. So, ‘The Origins of the Universe’ - what’s it all about? The universe itself is unimaginably large, old and complex. But how did it all begin? Do we have the answers? From our earthly perspective, humans have sought solutions for years. This educational course takes us on an incredible journey through space and time, out into the cosmos to unlock some of the mysteries our universe has to offer.
This cosmic voyage gives an excellent understanding of the physical universe and what it means to exist within it 18
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SKY-HIGH
From our solar system to the large-scale structure of the universe and on to the Big Bang, the experts guide us through our current perceptions and the important discoveries made along the way. This cosmic voyage gives an excellent understanding of the physical universe as a whole and addresses what it means to exist within it, in an interesting and easy-to-follow way. It’s worth noting that the observatory hosts a number of different courses - some for kids, some for the whole family, and some for those who already know a thing or two about the night sky. Whatever experience you go for, expect to navigate telescopes, play with high-tech stargazing kit, view objects from our own galaxy, learn from some of the best in the business and take it all in with a hot
chocolate as you wrap up warm and gaze into the glorious universe. We leave feeling truly inspired - full of hot chocolate and newfound knowledge. Consumed by the uncertainty that surrounds us in the current climate, it’s hard to truly switch off and focus, but there’s never been a better time to venture out of comfort zones, learn something new and explore what is beyond us. A trip to Kielder Observatory - and the natural beauty surrounding it - puts everything into perspective. It reminds us that we should always look at the bigger picture, and there’s no bigger picture than the night sky. As Walt Whitman said, keep your gaze up, and it will all fall into place. kielderobservatory.org
In line with current Government guidelines, Kielder Observatory is closed with a plan to reopen in early December. Stay tuned online for virtual family activities.
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LUXE LOVES
LUXE LOVES Pop of colour Bring a bit of colourful, festive cheer to your home this Christmas with Annie Sloan chalk paint. With various stockists across the North East, there’s never been a better time to give your living space a seasonal makeover. We’re loving the bold, bright shades of the lamp shade and candlesticks. anniesloan.com
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Merry Christmas from everyone at Dalton Park
THIS IS MY Just off the A19, County Durham
GET TO KNOW >> Photo credit: Ben Benoliel
A day in the life of you? I wake up at 8am and scroll through Instagram - my account is full of brilliant designers producing amazing work, so it’s great motivation to see what they’re working on and what the industry is doing. Next on this list is a run around Jesmond Dene, then coffee, tune into Radio 6 and start working. A day at the office involves CAD, rendering, sketching ideas, visiting factories, prototyping, admin, finding new stockists… the list is endless. I try to knock off at around 6pm, but when you love the work you do, you kind of just carry on, usually at the aid of a few beers. Any ongoing or upcoming projects we should know about? I have recently moved to Newcastle with fellow designer, Tom Leslie. We’re working on a couple of pieces together and I’m also up to my eyeballs in new ideas and projects that started bubbling in lockdown. The whole situation has been incredibly beneficial for me creatively. One thing I am very excited about is a new cast iron homeware range. Keep your eyes peeled online for updates. What does downtime mean to you? Attempting to sign out from design. This is tricky, you kind of have to live and breathe it. One sure way is a good surf. There’s nothing better than jumping in the North Sea to clear the mind. LESSONS IN LIFE >> What did you want to be when you were growing up? A secret agent - design is just a cover! What is the most important lesson life has taught you? Roll the dice! The nature of my work is rather unpredictable. It’s a sink or swim kind of gig. Very competitive with a lot of risk, but equally a lot of reward. I’ve been fortunate to see more of the latter, so will continue to roll the dice with new ideas. What is your greatest fear? Failing design and getting a 9-5 job with zero creativity involved.
THE LUXE LOWDOWN:
LEWIS POWER
Saltburn continues to deliver the goods when it comes to cool, creative folk. Lewis Power is a British designer who graduated in Industrial Design at Northumbria University, School of Design. His work explores the balance between traditional archetypes and a considered eye to the future. Back in February, he picked up the Rising Star 2020 Editors’ Choice Award at the Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair. Elysia Fryer gets the lowdown...
LIVING LUXE >> What is top of your bucket list? I want to go to outer space. What is your most treasured possession? A gold pendant necklace with my initials inscribed on the front. Me and my twin sister Charlotte were both given one at birth from our French grandma. It’s a tradition within the French side of our family for the grandchildren to receive a pendant at birth from the grandparents. What does the weekend mean to you? I work long hours through the week and very often weekends, so well in need of a release come that glorious night off. Aside from that, it means doing things - permitting I
have the time - that I wouldn’t be able to do through the week. This could be trips out to new places or camping. I believe it’s always good to get a change of scenery; it’s too easy to get stuck like Bill Murray in Groundhog Day. A memorable holiday? Amsterdam 2018 with Leo and Ollie Smith. Best dress? I have a Nigel Cabourn denim Jacket that I love. Who would be your top three dinner guests? Louis Theroux, Joey Diaz and Brian Cox. The last place you ate? The Bridge Tavern in Newcastle - exceptional. The last book you read? Noguchi, A Sculptor’s World The last thing you listened to? Music was Nightmares On Wax - great music for working. Podcast was Duncan Trussel, I can’t remember which one, they’re all mad. The last thing you watched? Film was Interstellar, I’ve watched it so many times. TV show was probably Come Dine With Me, I keep saying I’m going to go on it at some point, I just need to figure out what I’ll do for dessert. Three luxe things in life? Cats, my Bose headphones for working, and Saltburn beach at sunset. lewispower.co
GETTING TO KNOW YOU >> Name: Lewis Power Title Industrial Designer (and things…) Where is home? Saltburn-by-the-Sea Three reasons you love where you live? Great people, great town and great surf. THE DAY JOB >> What do you do for a living? I’m a designer - the closest title would be industrial designer, but I’m not limited to that. In a nutshell, I design furniture, lighting and homeware for residential and commercial properties and sell the designs to brands for either a royalty-based contract or a fixed term agreement. If I design something and it is viable and feasible for me to produce, sell and distribute myself, then I’ll choose this option and sell directly to customers, retail and various interior design projects.
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WINTER WARMERS
Tuscan Shearling Coat in Mustard Yellow, ÂŁ2,106
Bring elegant, natural shearling textures to your winter wardrobe with Yves Salomon’s daring new collection. From dijon to burgundy, these joyful designs evoke 70s-inspired refinement
TA L K I N G TE X T U R E
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WINTER WARMERS
Mink Coat in Brown, £9,189
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WINTER WARMERS
Patent Leather and Tuscan Jacket in Black, £3,132
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WINTER WARMERS
Wool and Cashmere Cape with Tibetan Lambskin Collar in Burgundy, £1,152
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WINTER XXXXXXXX WARMERS
Shearling Coat in Beige, £3,132
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WINTER WARMERS
Shearling Jacket in Light Pink, ÂŁ1,260
Northern stockists include >> Flannels, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges yves-salomon.com
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ADVERTORIAL
The impact of cost on Investment Returns – An argument for fixed advice fees At Sandringham Financial Partners Darlington we charge clients a flat ongoing fee regardless of the value of assets they hold with us
Financial advice can have significant benefits. In 2019 this was quantified in a report produced by The International Longevity Society at £47,706 as an overall increase in wealth when compared with similar individuals who did not receive advice. * The context within which that figure is derived can be read in the full article and it makes for informative reading. Whilst there is clear benefit in receiving financial advice, the cost of receiving that advice must also be considered against the objective it serves. The impact of costs and charges on investments is something that is well documented and the important thing to consider is that in a savings or investment environment, the impact of those costs are compounded by the loss of any potential investment return on the value of those fees. As with all significant financial decisions in life, finding the cheapest does not necessarily equate to securing the best
Over the course of the 25-year investment horizon the difference between the flat fee and percentage-based charge becomes significant. With many people now living 20+ years into retirement it is important to consider the impact of fees on your long-term wealth, as the combination of cost and time has the potential to make a significant difference to the value of your pensions and investments.
The figures used in this graph are for illustration purposes only. The value of investments can fall as well as rise and you may not get back what you initially invested.
outcome. The better objective is being smart about securing the best value; Quality of service at a cost which represents value for money. At Sandringham Financial Partners – Darlington we charge clients a flat ongoing fee regardless of the value of assets they hold with us. This fee is reflective of the time we spend putting together and maintaining client’s financial plans and detailed cash flow models and allows us to clearly demonstrate good value to our clients. The impact of this flat fee can be particularly significant compared to the common approach of percentage-based charging
against the value of your pot. The chart above gives an example of a client with an initial investment of £197,500 and regular contributions of £3,000 per year made at the end of the year with a 5% return, over the course of 25 years. The starting fee of 1% and the flat fee of £1,975 are equivalent at the start of year 1. The flat fee has been linked to inflation and is deducted annually in advance in this model. * The International Longevity Society, supported by pension provider Royal London – What it’s worth: revisiting the value of financial advice
If you are interested in discussing your requirements or think you might benefit from moving to advice with a fixed ongoing fee, please get in touch on 01325 808075 or email Darlington@sandringham.co.uk to arrange a no cost initial chat.
Sandringham Financial Partners Ltd (‘Sandringham’) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA Number: 581304. Registered Office: 5th Floor, 30 Market Street, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 2HG. Registered in England and Wales No: 08022795. VAT Registered: 337 981 265.
www.charlesclinkard.co.uk
SEASONAL INSPO
TREND WATCH
with Kate Rose, founder of lifestyle brand, Tutti & Co The little luxuries that help bring the festive season to life...
The lead up to Christmas is my most favourite time of the year. I love winter fashion, roaring fires, candlelight and one-pot suppers. The preparation is more exciting than the day itself for me. This year will look a little different for us all, so more reason to surround ourselves with dazzling decor and little luxuries...
Can’t live without... A scented candle or room spray. I love to fill my home with fragrance, it really creates a welcoming feel. I choose different scents to tie in with the seasons, and at Christmas time, my absolute favourite is SKOG by SKANDINAVISK. Notes of pine needles, fir cones, birch sap and lily of the valley combine to create an authentic Christmas in a bottle. skandinavisk.com
Loving… The new Black Pepper & Bergamot De-Stress Essential Oil by NEOM. I was lucky enough to receive a NEOM pod last year as a gift, and it is possibly the most used appliance in my home. I use it every day to fill the house with scent; it has certainly been a comfort over the last few months - particularly the ‘Scent to Sleep’ and ‘Scent to De-Stress’ range of oils. The newest scent, Black Pepper & Bergamot, is intense and warming, calming yet uplifting. It really does add a touch of luxury to your surroundings, leaving an intensely calming and warming boost so you can grasp whatever the day or night throws at you. Pop a few drops of oil into the pod or a bath and sit back, relax and unwind… neom.com
Excited about... The launch of the new Tutti cushion range. Inspired by our subtle watercolour prints, these cotton and linen mix cushions are truly beautiful and will add texture and colour to any setting. Limited quantities available. For styling tips make sure you follow @tuttiandco on Instagram. £18, tuttiandco.com
Wearing… My new wool jumpsuit from Massimo Dutti. Effortlessly stylish and perfect for the season ahead. It can be dressed down with sneakers and an oversized cardigan or ‘shacket’ for a layered look; for a more sophisticated look, throw on a pair of heeled shoe boots, statement accessories and an oversized clutch. A classic piece that can be worn over and over again, styled in so many ways. It’s a limited-edition piece, so be quick before it sells out. £249, massimodutti.com
Stying… Christmas may be a little different for us all this year, however, it is more important than ever to feel good in our surroundings. So, with a few quick and easy tips, you can create that festive vibe in no time at all and at little expense: 1. Pick a festive scent (candle/diffuser/home spray) and fill your home with a spritz everyday
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2. Dry sliced oranges for styling and decorating gifts 3. Bag some Christmassy prints 4. Hang dried wreaths and play around with festive flowers 5. Display lots of church candles at varying heights 6. Take some time to beautifully wrap gifts they can double up as festive decor in the lead up to the big day
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PARTY TIME
MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN Baccarat Rouge 540 edp spray, 70ml £215, selfridges.com
MOLLY GODDARD Red Nara Bumpy Drawstring Bag, £380, brownsfashion.com
CARMELA Leather Casual Trainer, £74, shuboutique.com CHANEL Rouge Allure Pourpre d’Or, £35, chanel.com
GET THE LOOK
Time to get glam GUCCI Pericles Metallic-Leather Backless Loafers, £510, matchesfashion.com
How to bring the party home this Christmas... Compiled by Charlotte Smith
MONICA VIANDER FOR SELFRIDGES PROJECT EARTH Doina 18ct Yellow-Gold Vermeil Sterling Silver Bracelet, £125, selfridges.com
KENNETH JAY LANE Gold Tone Crystal Clip Earrings, £215, brownsfashion.com
CHESCA Faux Fur Diamond Pom Pom Scarf, Black £120, johnlewis.com
BALMAIN Sequinned Maxi Skirt, £950, mytheresa.com
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BRUNELLO CUCINELLI Sparkling Silk Long Pleated Skirt with D-Ring Belt, £2,340, brunellocucinelli.com
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OUT WITH A BANG Where has this year gone? I can’t quite believe that Christmas is almost upon us. We will all, most certainly look back at 2020, shaking our heads, feeling rather bruised, but as we have all stood still during lockdown, it definitely made us appreciate the simple things in life that we all take for granted - friends, family and the freedom to live life without restraints. Many people definitely found a new love for their hairdresser, with most enduring four months with no cut or colour. Who’d have thought it? Thankfully hairdressers up and down the country have worked their magic and have now restored everyone back to their former glory. Christmas is the time when we all want to look our best and this year shouldn’t be any different. We may not be able to celebrate in the ’normal’ way with parties and work dos, but we can all still celebrate in style in our own way and part of that is looking our best (heaven knows we all need a little bit of happiness)! The beautiful Nina is definitely ‘party ready’ rocking sparkly Christmas vibes and looking absolutely stunning. With waves for days and a little bit of hair flipping to your favourite party tunes, you can create your own magic
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and make Christmas just as special with your family and loved ones. Talking of happiness, our wonderful team at Hooker & Young are celebrating an incredible seven nominations at this year’s British Hairdressing Awards. It’s testament to how hard our team has worked this year; pulling together to ensure we continue working at our very best in bringing all you wonderful people amazing hair. Flying the flag for the North East has always been a huge honour for us and something we take great pride in. MASSIVE congratulations to all of the H&Y finalists:
appointment, then what are you waiting for? There’s nothing quite like a new do to make you feel fantastic. So let’s see this year out with a bang, feeling our very best and looking forward to a happy and healthy 2021.
• North Eastern Hairdresser Of The Year Finalists Jonathan Turner (Jesmond salon), Sophie Gibson (Gosforth salon) and Michelle Rooney (Wynyard salon) • British Newcomer Of The Year - Molly Drummond (Ponteland salon) • Artistic Team Of The Year • British Colourist Of The Year • And of course Gary Hooker & Michael Young for British Hairdresser Of The Year It’s amazing to have so much to celebrate and be thankful for and we couldn’t be more proud of our incredible team. If you haven’t already booked your December Christmas hair
Michael Young and Gary Hooker run Hooker & Young, with four salons across the North East. hookerandyoung.co.uk
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SOLDIER OF RARE FORTUNE Dennis Middleton was a remarkable soldier. He left his secure job in civvy street, and with his sharp eye, courage and insatiable curiosity he fought in a war noting not only its horrors but its humour. He brought back with his medals his experiences and reflections upon his six battles and narrow personal escapes. He brought back, too, recollections, away from actual fighting, of chance encounters with interesting people in foreign lands of North Africa, the Middle East and mainland Europe where he served. He took opportunities when he could to visit physical and cultural landmarks, both famous and remote. All these things he blended into this book, which will absorb not only readers of war memoirs, but those of travel and adventure too.
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“WE LOOK FORWARD TO SHARING OUR DREAM WITH YOU AND WELCOMING YOU TO THE LAKES DISTILLERY IN THE LAKE DISTRICT NATIONAL PARK.” Paul Currie, Founder The Lakes Distillery
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The Lakes Distillery is founded on the principles of Faith, Hope, Luck and Love. This book charts the part each have played in creating the UK’s newest distillery, with its unique vision and world class products, among them the first British blended whisky and The Lakes Malt. Central to The Lakes Distillery is its location in the stunning Lake District National Park, which is set to become a world class visitor attraction. HRH, The Princess Royal, officially opened the distillery in July 2015.
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How to embrace the dark season... For obvious reasons (especially in the north), winter is often known as the ‘dark season’. This can imply that it’s dreary and heavy - and of course, at times it is - but darkness can mean many other things too. Now, more than ever, we are being asked to find stillness. We are called to look inward, to make closer contact with ourselves, to face our fears and to remember what’s really important. And winter brings with it energy that supports this perfectly. Here are some alternative and nourishing ways to embrace the dark this winter:
THE JO LOVES 2020 ADVENT CALENDAR >> The finest wreath you’ll buy this Christmas. The iconic Jo Loves Advent Calendar returns for 2020 in a beautiful circular design - the perfect decorative accessory as well as a collection of deluxe desirables to see you through the festive season. Miniatures include the Christmas Tree Room Spray as well as all your favourite Jo Loves body lotions, candles and fragrances. £300. thewhitecompany.com
Make a wish, open a window Add a touch of sparkle to your December mornings with our pick of the best beauty advent calendars for 2020
GET CREATIVE >> Writing is such a wonderful pastime, and a beautiful practice that can support self-discovery and expression. Journaling reflections at the end of each day works well, as does developing an early morning writing practice. Check out Julia Cameron’s work on ‘Morning Pages’ - it will change your world.
GET QUIET >> I’ve spoken often of the benefit of sinking into quiet practice. Only when we get OK with listening to ourselves can we stand any chance of listening to others and the world around us. Meditation is one way to explore this - and because there are many different forms, there really is a practice for everyone. Check out the meditations on my Calm Down, Wake Up podcast, or try some of the brilliant free content on Insight Timer and Calm. Reading is also a beautiful quiet practice (and a good way to escape from others at home) - so winter is a great time to hunker down and work your way through your reading pile.
GET TO NATURE >> Yes, autumn is beautiful and we all long for spring, but winter is majestic. Walking out in nature with a soft yet curious lens is so soothing. Seeking out tree bones, searching for signs of life defying the odds, spotting birds and other wildlife making their nests and burrows. It really is a time to connect with simplicity and gratitude.
GET TO BED EARLY >> Sleep! Most of us don’t get enough in quantity, and more importantly in quality. Let’s face it, there’s not much to miss out on this winter, so why not catch up on years of lost sleep with early nights, lie-ins or lazy starts - and maybe even the odd nap here and there.
GO DEEP >> Many of the practices above will invite you to step into your inner world. A world of feelings and senses and spirit. Build in some space to be with, and also nurture what shows up, and consider partnering with a coach to explore this, or sharing with a friend for support. Stay safe and I’ll see you on the other side! Laura
You can mediate and practice Yoga Nidra with me at my new podcast ‘Calm Down, Wake Up’. Find us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or come and connect with me on Instagram: @laura.beckingham
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LUSH ADVENT CALENDAR >> Lush is delivering the goods once again, just in time for the most wonderful season of all. Inspired by a magical nighttime garden, the limited edition advent calendar is as colourful as ever, beautifully presented in a handmade case made from 100% reusable materials. It contains 24 vegan products to use every day and night in the lead up to the big day. This year’s calendar includes six retro products from Lush Christmas past and three new products for Lush Christmas future. The lushest early Christmas gift of all. £185. uk.lush.com
<< MINI MANI MONTH 2020 Treat yourself to a ‘Mini Mani Month’ this December as Ciaté London introduces its 2020 festive advent calendar. The brand’s new Plant Pots formulation takes centre stage this year, created with up to 80% natural origin ingredients and infused with strengthening biotin, nourishing bamboo and hydrating bakuchiol extracts. It’s safe to say, this stuff is seriously good for your nails - plus, with 22 minis and one full size polish as well as a lip oil up for grabs in gorgeous, glossy colours, this is the perfect place to start when it comes to getting your festive glam on. £59. ciatelondon.com
NOV/DEC20
BEAUTY UPDATE << ACQUA DI PARMA ADVENT CALENDAR Acqua di Parma is lighting up the holiday season with its refined 2020 advent calendar. Presented in the unmistakable Acqua di Parma box, it opens up to become a bright Italian home, packed full of seasonal surprises, day after day. Expect to find some of the brand’s most cherished formulas and fragrances, including the Magnolia Nobile Hair Mist, Rosa Nobile Body Cream, Notte di Stelle Candle and much, much more. A must-have, early Christmas gift as a treat to self, or for someone special. £400. harrods.com
FENWICK BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDAR 2020 >> Delightful things come in dainty drawers - so this year’s Fenwick Beauty Advent Calendar says, and we couldn’t agree more. Packing in everything you need to prep, prime and preen in time for the festive season, this year’s sparkling calendar features big name brands such as Charlotte Tilbury, MAC, NEOM and more. £150. fenwick.co.uk
A festive glam guide Nick Hutchinson, Lead Artist at Charlotte Tilbury, Fenwick Newcastle, guides us through his top tips and hero products for the sparkly season...
<< A FRAGRANT HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN Penhaligon’s has been delivering delightful gifts since 1870; flooding the streets with festive cheer and tradition - and of course, some rather splendid treats to set the noses twitching. The quintessentially British brand is back this Christmas with a holiday countdown collection of 24 remarkably fragrant delights. Behind every door you’ll find exquisitely scented gifts for yourself or a loved one. £375. penhaligons.com
12 DAYS TO SKIN PERFECTION ADVENT CALENDAR >> Wake up on Christmas Day with flawless skin, thanks to QMS Medicosmetics’ luxe 2020 advent calendar. Twelve exciting discoveries will bring twelve days of undiluted joy to a deserving recipient this festive season. Each day will deliver perfectly beautiful, healthy skin in the form of cleanser, day and night cream, exfoliant, tonic, lip serum, eye serum, hand cream and more. £240. qmsmedicosmetics.com
<< MOLTON BROWN ADVENT CALENDAR Celebrate the countdown to Christmas in style with Molton Brown’s luxury advent calendar. It’s all about the glam this year, with a stunning selection inspired by the Roaring Twenties. Finished with an elegant holographic foil, this striking new calendar is filled with intriguing new fragrances, bathing classics and much, much more. Time to shimmer into the festive season. £175. moltonbrown.co.uk
Working in the beauty and cosmetic industry for almost 10 years, I know how important it is to feel the best version of yourself. I have worked for some of the most amazing brands that the beauty world has to offer and have had the privilege of working backstage at London Fashion Week with some of the top talent. As you can imagine, I have tried a lot of products along the way; so I wanted to share with you some of my go-to products for glam ‘on-the-go’ as well as some of my skincare heroes. First up, we have Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream; and believe me when I say, it truly is magic. It’s your everyday moisturiser combined with your makeup primer. It cushions your skin for a hydrated, plumperlooking complexion. It’s perfect for all skin types and can’t be missed backstage. Feeling good is important, and one simple way we can do that is with a perfect fragrance. My favourite scent is Yves Saint Laurent Caban Eau de Parfum - a wonderfully woody fragrance with spicy notes of pink pepper and black pepper oil. It is a unisex scent that lasts all day - I get so many compliments. A single spritz gives you that instant feeling of being ready to take on the day. Now for the fun part, the makeup. With the festive season coming up, even though we’re not entirely sure how we’re going to be celebrating this year, it’s still important to look and feel great. Charlotte Tilbury’s Bejewelled Eyes To Hypnotise palette is your best friend particularly during party season when we’re all looking for that added sparkle. The palette has four looks, all jewelinspired, so you can glow with wider, brighter looking, superstar eyes from day to night. The palette is split into three sections for easy-to-follow application with a mixture of matt and shimmery shades that suit every skin tone. You can find step-by-step application videos on the Charlotte Tilbury website, or you can visit the team in store this December for a festive Tilbury transformation. charlottetilbury.com
NOV/DEC20
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NATURE CALLS
Home is where the heart is
Anada fuses spa, wellness and nature to create something truly unique. Robes and slippers at the ready for an afternoon of sensory relaxation at home We’ve all had a taste of the nature pill. Something so simple, yet oh-so effective. When we’re feeling stuffy or we need to escape our minds for a while, a moment or two in the great outdoors can work wonders. During the lockdown period, we have all had time to stop and take notice. Noticing the natural beauty around us and understanding why it is so important to our general wellbeing. Our natural landscape creates a wellness experience of its own. It’s no coincidence
that we turn to the sounds of crashing waves, tweeting birds and swaying trees when we train our minds to switch off. Throw in a traditional spa treatment, cleansing herbal teas, guided meditations and the ability to really put yourself first, and you’ve got the ultimate soul-enhancing wellness experience - based around the beauty of the great outdoors. Anada Home is a personalised, at-home experience that invites positive energy to help reboot and revitalise. Inspired by the Scandi way of life and taken from the Swedish word for spirit, Anada nurtures and invigorates the mind, body and soul. It’s the brainchild of Deborah Carr - a spa specialist with more than 20 years of experience in the industry. Inviting Deborah into your abode is an absolute joy. She is kind, calming and instantly makes you feel like a guest in your own home.
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She is clearly passionate about everything she delivers. And with a genuine love for the great outdoors - Yorkshire in particular - her job is to ensure her clients can really escape for a few hours. The Anada experience came to life during the initial lockdown period when Deborah was out on her daily dog walks. “It’s something that has been bubbling for a while,” she says. “But it came to light when we were forced to think on our feet a little. It just seemed like the perfect solution for getting that spa experience at home.” Born out of an experience with nature, it made sense for Deborah to ensure that every little detail brings us back to earth. The great outdoors is a constant source of energy. Everything we do is centered around what is going on outside. Our mind and body is always adapting to the seasons, and the landscape that surrounds us is so important to our physical and mental wellbeing. Whether it’s big open spaces, crashing waves, woodland walks or soothing waters, all of these natural and incredibly powerful elements give us the tools to tick off the five key pillars of health. The result: a mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually and socially enhancing experience. A real, restorative box-ticker. With that in mind, Anada’s soul-enhancing experience invites groups of up to four to share a sensory, holistic spa journey in the comfort of their own homes. With treatments themed around the forest, the beach, the river and the meadow, Deborah uses a mix of tried-and-tested spa products including Elemental, Herbology and Natural Spa Factory, as well as Anada’s very own luxury essential oils. In the days leading up to the experience, Deborah reaches out to share information and get to know the group so that each treatment can be tailored to the individual. Our fluffy robes and slippers arrive in the post the day before, so we’re able to start the wind-down before our therapists arrive. On arrival, the Anada team work their magic to transform your home into a serene space where you can truly switch off, relax and indulge in some much-needed ‘me time’. Complete with candles, incense, herbal teas and lavender, everything we associate with a blissful spa sanctuary has arrived in our living room. It’s a COVID-friendly experience from start to finish, with therapists wearing PPE, regular cleansing treatments and the added bonus of being able to keep your own robe and slippers following the spa day. The experience starts with a cleansing ritual using hot towels and lemongrass, before the therapists use a smudging stick to shift any
negative energy in the room. A calm, woody aroma is released from the gentle burning of herbs - a practice that dates back to a time when Native Americans would spiritually cleanse a living space to strengthen intuition and improve focus. Grounding follows, with soothing breathing exercises to help centre the body and calm the mind. Next up is a tea ritual; a time to rest up and socialise over a cuppa - we’re in Yorkshire after all. Fully relaxed and ready for a revitalising treatment, it’s time for the main event. We are invited into our ever so tranquil living space, filled with candles, scents and cosy blankets. We’re in for the forest treatment. The authentic sounds of swaying trees, rustling leaves and raindrops takes over as we drift off to dreamtime. Complete with woody aromas, essential oils, birch whisks and wooden massage sticks, we’re wandering through savannas, grasslands, swamps, bamboos, and palm forests in no time.
It’s a soothing, full-body massage, deepening the pressure on targeted areas to leave the body feeling fully revitalised, banishing tightness and toxins. We leave the living room feeling completely new, ready to continue the relaxation with DIY facial treatments, mood cards, guided meditations and plenty of herbal tea. Anada Home is unlike anything we have experienced before. It’s a fantastic way to pick the spa up and bring it to your own living space. And the beauty of it is, following your treatment, you can while away the rest of your day in your robe and slippers, continuing the wellness experience with your post-treatment gift set and your newfound knowledge on how the power of nature can bring us back down to earth. The Anada Home experience is available to clients based in Yorkshire and Cheshire. Prices start at £150 per person. Gift vouchers are available for Christmas. For more information, visit: anada.co.uk
NOV/DEC20
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THE BEST
ON THE HOOF with Deborah Smith The region’s best The days are shorter, the clippers are out and winter is certainly in sight. We barely seem to have got going this year and now 2021 is just around the corner. I’m determined to remain upbeat; it’s been a funny old year, but I’m keen to make the most of the brilliant winter training we have available across the whole region. So, here’s my own personal celebration of the best northern coaches who go that extra mile for clients and their horses...
THE BEST… Winter all-round training Charlotte Ridley has something of a go-to destination at Park End Equestrian for those cold winter days. Having stepped back from her own very successful competitive career as a rider, Charlotte now concentrates on helping the rest of us get on and have fun and win lots of rosettes, of course. She runs her legendary grid sessions throughout the winter and there’s usually flat, jumps and indoor XC going on as well. They don’t start until December, but I’m already checking the booking page on her website. Everyone comes away feeling motivated and all the horses seem to grow an extra hand in height after one of her lessons. Charlotte is always encouraging, cheerful and a master at teaching mixed groups. Always busy - so get booked up early. Park End Equestrian Centre, Simonburn, Hexham, Northumberland, NE48 3AA Tel: 01434 230 394 Email: charlotte@parkendequestrian.co.uk
THE BEST… Regular coaching I’ve been having lessons with Paul Langford for two years now; he must have the patience of a saint. Recently achieving his British Dressage Level 3 coaching qualification, Paul offers thoughtful and well-structured lessons. I’m fortunate to train with Paul twice a week and Oli and Strider have really come on under his discerning eye. He does work us hard, but I like his calm demeanour and his quiet determination to do things properly. We have learnt so much and Paul is excellent as a regular coach,
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as he is always working towards longterm goals, so you feel like there is a well mapped out journey ahead. Because I see Paul so often, he is always there to help with training questions: the what, the why and the how… and he really is a font of all knowledge. Paul is based at Hole House Farm with two lovely arenas inside and out. He has had a great year himself with his horses, and his 19-year-old, Felix, has been super-smart at PSG, with an outing to the Premier League show in March at Myerscough. So welldeserved and what a great partnership they have. Paul Langford Equestrian Services, Hole House Farm, Lanchester, County Durham, DH7 0SY Tel: 07788 594051 E mail: paullangford22@hotmail.com
THE BEST… Intensive dressage / individual camp If you want to have some focused, intensive dressage training, then a two-day ‘individual camp’ with Vikki Hayton is hard to beat. With two under my belt and a third in the diary, I can’t recommend them enough. BD Northern Region Chair, Vikki, is a hugely experienced rider, coach and judge. After a general assessment and goal setting discussion, the sessions are tailored and productive. With two horses, both very different, I have come away with a much clearer idea of how to ride each to progress and develop. The whole atmosphere at College Farm Equestrian Centre is so friendly and welcoming. It is convenient to get to, the facilities are super and everything is on-hand so even in winter it’s perfect. College Farm Equestrian Centre, West Markham, Tuxford, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG22 0GT Tel: 01777 870 886 Mobile: 07860 276 578
THE BEST… Pre-competition sparkle John Hill is always good value and what I love about his teaching is that he is so enthusiastic about every horse. He always finds something good about what he sees in front of him. Hairy cobs, sports horses, badminton hopefuls - John loves them all. All horses seem to go really well in front of him - in some ways it’s a shame he isn’t a judge, then we would all get 80%. He is a great confidence giver just before a competition. John has been whizzing up the levels this year with Ailsa Trafford’s lovely Polly, who is now out at Advanced Level. What a talented mare she is. Apparently, he has been wearing the same Mears tailcoat for 32 years and it still fits. John Hill Equestrian Training Facebook: @Johnhillequestrian Email: John.horse@btinternet.com
THE BEST… Up-to-date show jumping The more BS I do, the more I realise how show jumping course building follows different trends. Sarah Tubbs is both a Level 4 British Showjumping Coach and a Coach Educator for British Showjumping. Sarah makes a real effort to keep up-todate with what style courses are being built at the big show jumping venues, so your training is current and you are as well prepared as possible. So this year, we have trained with Sarah over more technical courses and practiced combinations she has met herself while competing with her super mare, Aurora. Oli and Strider love their jumping and although we haven’t managed to do as much this year, our lessons with Sarah are so much fun and a welcome change for the boys to keep them on top form. Sarah has a super 50x30 indoor arena, perfect for those chilly Teesdale winter days. Marwood Equestrian Centre, Travellers Rest, Marwood, Barnard Castle, County Durham, DL12 8SR Tel: 07886 485201 Email: sarah@sarahtubbscoaching.co.uk
So there you have it, my five of the best. I know there are many more excellent coaches, and in a year when times have been especially tough for small businesses and the selfemployed, it’s such good news that we have so much coaching talent still around to tap into here in the North.
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NORTHERN SOUL
It’s good to be back Steph McGovern is something of a Teesside icon. Not only is she incredibly proud of the place she calls home, but her hometown is very much behind everything she represents. She’s been navigating life as a new mum, she’s launched a new TV show in lockdown, and she’s putting a positive spin on current affairs. It’s good to have her back on home turf, says Elysia Fryer…
It’s 2.15pm, Steph has just come off air and we’re awaiting an update on new lockdown measures - a subject that has become a part of everyday life for now, but something we’re all learning to live with. For Steph, it’s all about channeling positivity. And her new Channel 4 show, which has brought her back to her home county, allows her to do just that. “As I imagine a lot of people feel right now, it feels brilliant to get out of the house and get back to routine,” says Steph. “It’s really nice to be back out working and to be around people again - obviously it’s all socially distanced, but it’s wonderful to be back in amongst it.” Steph’s work ethic is refreshing. She doesn’t shy away from the fact that she’s a hardworking lass - ready to roll her sleeves up and tackle whatever it is that comes her way. After having a very successful early career in engineering, picking up a national award at the age of 19, she’s given us a number of reasons to trust that she’s able to take on a new challenge. Her latest challenge,
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of course, being a new daytime studio show in Channel 4’s new home at Leeds Dock. That, and settling into life as a new mum. She’s not afraid to tell us how tough it is, but that’s what makes her tick. “I’m no different to anyone else in that it is hard to try and do your job well while trying to be there for your kids,” she says. “For me, it’s really lovely that in lockdown I got to spend a lot of time with my daughter, but now it’s also nice that she sees her parents go to work. She spends time with grandparents and enjoys socialising with other kids at her little classes. “But there’s no shying away from the stuggles. It’s not easy. I have so much respect for single parents. I am lucky in that me and my partner tag team amazingly well, but I couldn’t do it on my own. I don’t know how people do it - hats off to them.” Between parenting and presenting, Steph has really come into her own - and much of that has to do with returning to work, falling back into routine, and setting up home in glorious North Yorkshire, just a stone’s throw from her native Middlesbrough. It’s great to see Steph back on the big screen. And to be able to bring national
TV to a new home in the north, is something to be incredibly proud of. “It’s so good to be back,” Steph smiles. “We had so many plans for the show that we were unable to put into action because of lockdown, so to be able to actually do those things and see the show come to life, is just brilliant. Having a studio full of people, and to have them all interacting, feels like a big win right now. It’s really nice to create what I always had in my mind and finally be able to share it with others.” The show was due to hit our screens back in April, but the world had other plans. A few curve balls were thrown in, but nothing Steph and the production team couldn’t overcome. “The show was supposed to launch in the studio in April, but obviously we couldn’t because we were in lockdown. So the options were, we don’t do the show at all, or I try to do it from home, which obviously suddenly meant that my house turned into a TV studio. That, of course, brings in an element of madness because my baby was only a few months old, and with no childcare and a partner that works full time, you can imagine how manic it was. >>
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“But, equally, everyone was adapting and pivoting, so we just had to muck in and change the way we worked. Everyone, in a sense, has become a live broadcaster from home - no matter what their job is. We’ve had to pivot and do Zoom calls, Microsoft Teams catch-ups, or whatever else. Our homes quickly became our office, our studio, our classroom - our everything. “I guess you can say it was a setback in the sense that we couldn’t go into the studio, but it was also a really great time to try stuff out - and that has really helped us in the long run now we’re in the studio.” The show itself breathes new life into daytime TV. It’s a place where you can take some time out on your lunch, learn something new, enjoy a bit of banter and see a few familiar faces. “It is what it says on the tin, really,” Steph explains. “It’s a ‘packed lunch’ show of 100 minutes, where we have lots of chat, talking about the biggest news stories of the day - either a funny take on them, or just having a chat about it. “People from all walks of life are featured on the show. We have our ‘lunch mates’ who are essentially an audience who give their views and chip in throughout the show, and we have some famous faces too. We cover everything from health and expert advice, to food and consumer stuff. It’s a laid-back studio show full of fun, food, news and gossip, but it also provides content that will hopefully inspire, entertain and inform. “We’re changing as we go. We’re learning things all of the time. The show today is very different from yesterday’s show, and that’s something we’re keen to keep up. “We’ve got regulars like Oti Mabuse, Vogue Williams, Gemma Atkinson, Lady Leshurr, Paul Sinner and Jan Ravens. We’ve also got Russell Kane, who is just brilliant at broadcasting news in a funny, lighthearted way. “So we’ve a core team of people in the
I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for growing up in Middlesbrough. That is absolutely categorically the reason I’ve done well studio, then we’ve got really cool people like Giovanna Fletcher who does lots of stuff around fertility and parenting. “I like to call it a blended family of people. We’re all just trying to learn from each other, but also make each other laugh as we go. With everything going on in the world, we just want to have a bit of fun with it.” In a time where we’re seeing a lot of negative - albeit important - information on the news, to be able to digest that information in an informal, easy-to-follow setting, with a few laughs thrown in for good measure, is what we all need right now. “Positivity is key,” Steph explains. “When I was filming in lockdown, I used
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to call it the ‘positivity power hour’. Yes, sometimes we’ve got to talk about some tricky stuff, but we try to be quite uplifting about everything we do. “We run lots of stories about people who have had extraordinary things happen to them. We had a little boy who saved his mum’s life because he knew that the number on his toy ambulance was a number that he could ring to get through to the emergency services. “We had a girl on the show today who has lost all of her hair and now she’s a real ambassador for alopecia. These are the stories we want to be sharing. The backstory might be tough, but the positivity that comes out of them is something we could all do with smiling about at the moment.” Being a fellow ‘Boro lass’, I’m keen to find out how Steph is settling back into life in the North East. Balancing her time between her home in North Yorkshire and her studio home on Leeds Dock, she’s got the best of both worlds. “As I’m sure you already know - accent and all - I’m from Middlesbrough, so the studio is only up the road really. I live between Middlesbrough and Leeds, in North Yorkshire, so it means I’m not far from my parents, who are fantastic at looking after the baby. “It’s also just so nice to be doing national telly from this side of the country for a change. “Our ‘lunch mates’ tend to be locals, but it’s great to have a national show, based in the north, presented by a northerner. “There’s definitely a Yorkshire flavour to it, which is really refreshing, and is hopefully going down well with our viewers across the country. A good bit of Yorkshire charm can go a long, long way. “It’s just wonderful to be able to have a great job in a place that I love - and not have to live in London to do it. I think our region continues to prove itself, and we’re all very much behind it.” On to the important stuff. The Boro... “I’m over the moon that I can get back to Middlesbrough and the place I grew up can become a part of my daughter’s life,” she says. “I just love all the ‘northerness’ that comes with it - which you really do miss when you’re down south. The local pubs, the attitude and the friendliness.” Everyone feels a sense of pride in their hometown. Whether we set down our roots in that place, or we pack up and move on, it is instilled in us - it becomes a part of who we are and what we do. It’s something special. A mark Middlesbrough has left on both Steph and I. “I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for growing up in Middlesbrough. That is absolutely categorically the reason I’ve done well. My school was brilliant at making us resilient, helping us to build confidence and giving us aspirations to be whatever we wanted to be. It doesn’t matter how much money you’ve got, or what your parents do as jobs - actually, you can be just as good as anyone else. I had that instilled in me in school, and it has stayed with me since. “I went to a school that had a lot of people from tough backgrounds, but it was a melting pot of brilliance because it was all about working together. We did loads of visits to local businesses and that instantly gave me that tangible sense of work. I’ve worked from the age of 15, in loads of different jobs. I was an engineer originally
- I’ve done loads of things, and that’s because at school, we were shown the world of work. It wasn’t all about exams - it was about finding your feet, developing as an individual and as a group, and mucking in to kickstart a career in whatever you were passionate about. “I understood what work looked like from a young age, so I wasn’t afraid of it. I didn’t feel like I was choosing from one of the three jobs you were told about in your careers education - it was much better than that. And all of that just made me ambitious.” Steph’s career took an interesting turn at the age of 19 when she was awarded Young Engineer for Britain. The award came when she was working for Black & Decker in Spennymoor - a far cry from the public facing role she has taken on today. “After winning the engineering award, I got interviewed in the media a lot because I was a woman in engineering and because I’ve got a northern accent - all of that made me unusual in the media world. “I didn’t know anyone in the industry, and I didn’t know much about what goes on behind the scenes, because business and engineering was all I knew. I got a bit of work experience and just worked my way
up from the bottom. I worked behind the scenes for a long, long time. I was producer for the big news bulletins on the BBC’s 10 o’clock news. I got asked to go and cover someone on the radio one day and that’s where my presenting career started. Telly came next, and the rest is history - here I am.” Steph’s career has taken her from site to office to newsroom, spanning Manchester, London and Middlesbrough. She’s picked up heaps of experience, been involved in many political debates and has certainly made her mark in the media world. But after chatting with Steph about her new chapter, it seems she’s just getting started. A whole new world of parenting awaits as she settles down with her partner and daughter in North Yorkshire. But she will be forever grateful for her childhood in Teesside, the place that led her to ‘the now’. “What’s not to love? We’ve got the Riverside - the home of The Boro - we’ve got Saltburn for fish and chips, Baker Street - packed full of cool little micro pubs and what have you - and of course, we’ve got the beautiful Roseberry Topping - there’s no better place to take in the views of our wonderful town.” The Steph Show airs weekdays on Channel 4 at 12pm.
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ROCKSTAR MENUS
Chefs, pugs and rock ‘n’ roll
It’s late October and we’re embracing the opportunity to get festive on a North Yorkshire farm. We’re talking food, festivities and feeding the stars as we sit down with Sarah Muir of Arches Cookery School in Grinkle… Driving up the lane to Arches Cookery School, you’re heading towards a rural family farm hidden in the North York Moors; but behind the barns, crops and cottages, you’ll find the home of ‘the North Yorkshire Muirs’. So many stories to be told behind the farmyard facade, and that’s before we get down to business and talk food. The Muir family are third generation farmers. The farm itself is headed up by Richard, the youngest of three siblings who grew up at Grinkle Park. The eldest daughter is Paddy Muir, champion event rider. The middle child is Sarah - the reason we’re getting festive on the farm today. Sarah left the farm at the age of 15 to “run away with the circus,” she laughs. She was born to be on the road. She loved everything about life on the farm growing up, but no crops or livestock were going to get in the way of her far-reaching travels. Always a curious soul, Sarah was keen to get out and explore. There was just so much to see, so much to experience, and so many amazing people to meet - and boy, has she done just that. Now, life is about slowing down (but only a little!), making a home and sharing her foodie knowledge with others. Sarah is honest, humble and quite frankly, an absolute hoot to be around! So when we got the chance to visit the cookery school, we jumped at the opportunity. Throw in some festive decor, farm-foraged treats and five friendly pooches, and it’s a Friday well spent. So, let’s start from the beginning. Having gained formal catering qualifications, Sarah upped sticks and launched a career in France, before packing up once again to tour the world with some pretty high-flying entertainers including Elton John, Whitney
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Houston, George Michael, Bon Jovi, Lionel Richie and Robbie Williams. “Cooking has given me the most amazing life - and a library full of stories,” she says with a smile. “But 10 years ago, I decided to burst my little tour bubble to come home and be surrounded by the people and the food I love most.” It’s been a crazy career to say the least. And as we settle down with a cuppa and a slice of cake, it’s time to delve deep into that library of stories… “I left the farm when I was just 15 and never came back until 11 years ago,” says Sarah. “I always enjoyed cooking, so knew that my talent was my ticket to exploring the world. “If you could carry two full buckets of water and lead a horse at the same time, you could do anything. So, that’s what I decided to do. Along with a few friends, we hit the road, and the rest is history.” It’s impossible to imagine how many miles Sarah has clocked travelling the world and running around after the stars. She’s hopped from one continent to another, mixed with rock ‘n’ roll royalty, and has worked on a best-selling charity cookbook filled with the go-to dishes of some of the biggest names in rock culture. Love Music Love Food: The Rock Star Cookbook, is the result of one of the world’s best food photographers, a music journalist and a chef to the stars. Throw in a foreword by British superstar chef, Heston Blumenthal, a heaped spoonful of inspiring recipes, and a money-can’t-buy shot of Noel Gallagher with bundles of his beloved Yorkshire Tea - and you’ve got a publication that will go down in history. More than 60 artists sharing their favourite dishes an extraordinary recipe book produced for an extraordinary cause, with all proceeds
going to Teenage Cancer Trust. After laughing through a back catalogue of backstage secrets collected over the years, I have to pinch myself and remember why I’m here: Christmas. Cookery school. Farm life. But just how do those worlds collide? “One minute I’m feeding the sheep, the next I’m preparing for a ‘Demo & Dine’ cookery class, then I’m on the road with Radiohead,” Sarah laughs. “But that’s just me. I’m all-go, but I love to be able to jump between jobs - and although I still spend much of my time on the road, to finally have a base back on home turf, is just wonderful. “I was based in London for 30 years, but after a couple of dodgy days when bullets shot past me in Islington, I just thought, ‘It’s time to go home…’. “10 years ago, I was standing out in the farmyard with my mum and she just came out with, ‘Why don’t you turn that store building into something? You can’t be out on the road forever, you’ll end up the Mick Jagger of the catering world!’. “She planted the seed and it left me trying to figure out what my next move would be. “In January 2010 I broke my ankle in B&Q car park in Darlington. I was just about to jet off to work the Grammy’s in LA. My
partner went off to South Africa with Cliff Richard and I was left at home with a footballer’s fracture. I’d never actually stopped before - until something like this forced me to. “I had a think about what my mum had suggested. We started building late January and opened on 1 May 2010. “In summer 2010, when I was no longer mooching around in a moonboot, I went off on tour and tasked my brother Richard with turning The Mill Room into a dining room. I came back and tah-dah! “Richard pretended he didn’t want anything to do with it, but he got involved in every part of the build. Everything from installing a lintel above the double doors using an old sleeper we used to jump on ponies when we were kids, to the extraction and the venting. “We just found things on the farm, brought them in and made it work. “So I came back from the Radiohead tour to a complete cookery school, but then I thought to myself, ‘Gosh, how am I going to get people in here?’ They’re hardly going to walk past and pop in! “I started going to the shows with my little gazebo. We did loads of stuff with the Women’s Institute - because they’re great gossipers and it was the perfect way to
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get the word out. “We had friends round, did taster sessions, and before we knew it, we threw away our business plan. We were on to our fifth year by the end of the first year! “It started with inviting local people who, in typical Yorkshire style, couldn’t believe the price! But we quickly turned into a lifestyle destination and now have visitors from all over the globe.” Perhaps it was Sarah’s ability to travel the world, work with people from all walks of life - and make a big impression - that led to quick success at Arches Cookery School. Now, the cookery school invites international foodies, regulars, family and friends to enjoy Sarah’s cooking, to learn from one of the best, and to have a bit of fun in the process. “The cookery school is like a little sanctuary for me,” explains Sarah. “It’s a place where life slows down a little and I get to work with small groups rather than a huge team on location. “Both sides of the coin exhaust me, but it’s a great way of life. “I knew, when I launched the cookery school, that I wouldn’t be completely retiring from tour life. I still have three or four months of the year where I disappear and hit the road - I just can’t let it go. “Last year I double booked myself for Take That and Queen, so I ended up being away for most of the year, but I’ve learnt that it’s ok to leave your own business. This is a luxury item, it’s not a necessity - nobody is clambering to be here a week last Thursday. “Strangely, though very different, the two can work hand in hand. When I’m out on the road I’m shopping every day in local markets, so I try to keep in vogue with all the latest food trends, which I can bring back with me and share with others. “I bring stuff back that people have never worked with before - because, you know, the Co-op in Stokesley doesn’t stock it! “I try to keep on top of hot topics, many of which come and go with the seasons, or with TV. When the Bake Off is on, everyone
intimate affair this year, so people can experiment a little, rather than serving up 85 vegetables and a piece of charred meat,” Sarah laughs. “Cocktails and Canapés is also a great one - because everybody loves a cocktail or two during party season. “There’s plenty going on. We’re in full Christmas mode right now, it’s great!” Sarah also works with local suppliers to create festive hampers, celebrating all that Yorkshire has to offer during the merry season. “I did 750 hampers last year, and I’m starting to pick them up again. They start at £100 and go up to £500. They’re full of local treats, so it’s a great opportunity to shout about other small businesses in the area. “I always like to use people like The Baytown Coffee Company in Whitby, and I’ve got a friend, Mrs Bs Candleorium, who’s candles I like to include. “She made one for the cookery school. The description is: ‘A unique and delicious aroma. Top notes of warmth and wit. Mix in food with a pinch of rock ‘n’ roll. The perfect recipe for those who love to cook.’. “I’m also going to be creating make-yourown macaroon baking boxes this year. They’ll go out in the post with everything you need to make them at home, along with a weblink to my channel so you can cook-a-long with me.” When Sarah isn’t planning and hosting Christmas events or catching up with rock ‘n’ roll chums in London, she fully embraces farm life. “My Jug (Jack Russell Pug) Lola, comes to the cookery school with me most days she’s my sidekick. When we get a minute, we head out over the fields to get a bit of fresh air and keep an eye on my orchid.” There’s no ‘rule of six’ on the farm though, the poochy pack all come out to play, with plenty of personality and cheekiness. There’s never a dull moment. “Throw in some hens and my pet sheep, and I guess you could say I’ve got a very
interesting ‘bubble’. All of my sheep are named after Arsenal players. We’ve got Petit, who has no teeth; we’ve got Wenger and Vieira, who are the big ones; Henry, who is ever so cute; and we’ve got Pérez. That tells you how old those sheep are because none of that lot have played for years.” For a moment of peace - away from
festivities, farm animals and feeding the stars - Sarah’s sanctuary is My Core Wellbeing in Guisborough. “Yoga is my thing at the moment,” she says. “I have to do my three nights of yoga every week, otherwise I don’t have any time for myself. It’s good to just stop and check in every now and then.” archescookeryschool.co.uk
Archers Cookery School’s Christmas Gift Vouchers are the perfect gift this year. Head over to the website for more details on how you can book a 2021 workshop for the food-lover in your life.
Cooking has given me the most amazing life - and a library full of stories. But 10 years ago, I decided to burst my little tour bubble to come home and be surrounded by the people and the food I love most is going to want to make macaroons.” Sarah has interesting contacts all over the world, but sometimes it’s the talent on our doorstep that can work together to create the most spectacular things. “I’m going to be launching a new supper club in Whitby in partnership with a big company, as soon as we get a bit of wriggle room with numbers. We’re always looking for something else - the next thing - because, you know, there are 24 hours in the day!” Those days are never as full as they are during the festive period when it’s time to get together and really celebrate food. “I’ve got a whole host of festive events in the pipeline,” she explains. “Everything from Christmas Bakes to Santa Specials. One of our most popular Christmas workshops is the Ultimate Christmas Mains, where we offer up alternatives to turkey, or The Big Lunch, where we make suggestions for modern Christmas dinner. It’s looking like Christmas Day is going to be a much more
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FESTIVE WORKSHOPS @ ARCHES FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER The Big Lunch SATURDAY 5 DECEMBER Cocktails & Canapés SUNDAY 6 DECEMBER Christmas Bakes & Santa Special For The Kids FRIDAY 11 DECEMBER Just Desserts FRIDAY 18 DECEMBER Ultimate Christmas Mains TUESDAY 22 DECEMBER Edible Christmas Gifts luxe-magazine.co.uk 45
YES CHEF
HOME COMFORTS with chef Chris Baber Our culinary columnist invites us into his home kitchen at Christmas. Think homegrown vegetables, leftover turkey and hikes along Hadrian’s Wall
And just like that, the winter rolls back around. It’s been a busy couple of months for me. I’ve officially packed up from my lockdown bubble up north and moved back down to London, which has been a very full-on but exciting experience. The capital city is a far cry from the place it was before I left in the spring, but it’s wonderful to be back to work. Although we’re not quite sure how Christmas is going to look this year, it’s been great to step into a new season and delve deep into all the wonderful stuff it brings with it. Read on for updates on my foodie world, my upcoming projects and how I’ve been adapting to ‘the new normal’ in my new London pad. MY WORLD >> I’ve been setting up home in my new London flat - and it’s fair to say it’s been quite overwhelming, moving from the countryside to the city. It’s great, but it just takes a bit of getting used to - I feel completely new to London again, which is a very exciting thing I guess. I’ve been catching up with friends, before restrictions were put in place. I’ve been out for dinner at some really nice new ‘locals’ - one being The River Café on Thames Wharf, which is a famous Italian restaurant - proper Italian food, done well with quality ingredients. I’ve also discovered a really cool new Korean street food place called Seoul Bird at Westfield Shepherds Bush, created by Judy Joo and Andrew Hales. I’ve never really eaten much in the way of Korean food to be totally honest, I haven’t been to Korea, but Korean fried chicken - I
can confirm - is delicious. In other news, we’ve launched the Cook With M&S Recipe Kits in 200 stores across the country, which is really exciting. We’re hoping to roll out to more stores soon, as well as online. They feed two people and come with an easy-to-follow recipe card with all of the ingredients you need in the box. My weekly M&S recipe cards are also proving popular. You can pop into your local store and pick out four cards every month. The idea is that they each feed four people in a family for £12. MY FOOD DIARY >> There’s no doubt about it, we find ourselves in very strange times as we start the countdown to Christmas. A lot of people are worried about mixing up their usual routines and traditions; but for me, one thing that never stops, which I think the lockdown period has proven, is our love of food and getting creative in the kitchen. The festive season brings a whole load of hearty home comforts to the table, many of which I’ve been sharing on my Instagram feed, alongside the live cook-a-longs I’ve been sharing on Instagram Live. I’ve been hosting these virtual events every other Thursday at 6pm, sometimes I am joined by friends, guest chefs and famous faces. I had Olympic sprinter, Colin Jackson, on with me recently, which was a lot of fun. Following on from my live cook-a-longs, I’m going to be launching a new social series in 2021 which will involve cook-offs with celebrities. Stay tuned for more information on that as we step into the new year. The book is an ongoing work in progress. I’ll have an update on that in the coming months.
INSPIRED BY THE SEASONS >> Now is a great time to really hunker down and enjoy the bounty of brilliant produce winter brings. For me, the colder months are all about creating hearty, comforting meals to represent the shift in seasons - using stuff like butternut squash and pumpkin is wonderful - just rich, good-for-the-soul food. My go-to winter staple is a good curry. Rice, veg, a dunk of naan bread - it’s just chunky, feast-worthy food, and it’s so easy to get right, which is always important. FOODIE HAPPENINGS >> All being well, I’ll be in the North East for Christmas. I love cooking the Christmas dinner back home. My one piece of advice for people heading up the home kitchen this Christmas is, make a plan, set out timings and work backwards from the time you plan to sit down and eat. Write it all down and tick things off as you go, that way you won’t miss anything, as there’s often a lot going on in the kitchen on the day. I’d also say, don’t feel like you need to make everything from scratch. M&S-bought stuffing is a big thing in our family, and it’s a definite crowd-pleaser on Christmas day, so I always stick to that. It’s also a good idea to share the workload. Get the whole gang involved and make it an enjoyable experience. We grow some of our own veg in the garden, which is always a nice thing to do in the run up to the day. Other festive traditions include a big Boxing Day walk along Hadrian’s Wall. We pack up a seasonal picnic full of leftover turkey sandwiches and plenty of tea and coffee and just enjoy a bit of good old fresh North East air. That, and a trip to the coast for some fish and chips - are both synonymous with a trip back home at Christmas time.
Ingredients For the cobbler: 300g self-raising flour 75g butter 175g milk 1 tbsp chopped parsley (or dried herbs) Salt and pepper For the filling: 1 tbsp butter or oil 2 cloves garlic, chopped 3 sprigs rosemary, finely chopped 2 leeks cut in half lengthways, then cut into 0.5cm slices 500g diced leftover turkey, cut into small chunks 2 handfuls mushrooms, sliced 2 tbsp mustard 500ml chicken stock 1 tbsp cornflour, mixed to paste with 1 tbsp water TRY THIS >>
Turkey cobbler
Serves 4
The perfect way to use up leftover turkey. Real, hearty comfort food - the cobbler topping makes a delicious change to mash potatoes. A great one for sharing and getting the family around the table. You can add as much turkey as you wish - the more the merrier during the festive season.
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CHRIS’S CHRISTMAS COOKING TIPS >> Many of you may be worried about how your Christmas Day routine is going to pan out. Will you be cooking for your usual crowd? Or is it looking like a smaller affair in your bubble? The way I’m looking at it is, let’s not worry about trying to reduce the size of the turkey or the veg offering, let’s go with our regular portions and really embrace the leftovers. That’s what Christmas is all about, right? A fridge packed with turkey, veggies and all the festive trimmings. If, in normal circumstances you’re feeding 10, but there’s only four of you this year, well why not buy the same size turkey so no one is fighting over the leg or the breast on Christmas Day - and then you can do some creative stuff with the leftovers between Christmas and New Year. It might be a Boxing Day dinner, a turkey katsu curry, a pie, a soup or a tagine. For me, it’s important that we put a positive spin on it - rather than stressing about the differences we might encounter this year, let’s just go with it, embrace it and get creative. I promise you, you’ll have fun with it. Stay tuned on Chris’s Instagram page (@chrisbaber) for tips, tricks and recipes to guide you through the festive season. In the meantime, here’s a delicious turkey cobbler to get you started…
Method For the cobbler: Sift the flour into a mixing bowl with the salt and pepper. Add the butter and rub with fingertips to make a breadcrumb consistency. Stir in the parsley then gradually add the milk using your hands to mix until you have a stiff dough (you may not need all of the milk). Flour a surface and roll out 0.5cm thick Cut into disks and set aside For the filling: Preheat the oven to 220°c. Fry the garlic and rosemary in the butter or oil for 1 minute, then add leeks for 5 minutes, until soft. Add the turkey, then the mushrooms, cook for a few minutes until they’re softened. Stir in the mustard followed by the stock, cover loosely and simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in the cornflour to thicken. Transfer to an ovenproof dish and place the cobbler disks on top, spacing evenly. Brush with a little milk and bake for around 20 minutes until golden. Serve with any leftover cranberry or bread sauce.
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GET FESTIVE
Savouring the seasons WITH KAREN PHILLIPS
This year will no doubt go down in history as ‘keeping loved ones safe’, so what better Christmas gift than a wholesome, handmade treat RICH PICKINGS FROM THE GARDEN >> There are a few treasured favourites still to be picked: Purple sprouting broccoli can flower over a very long period - November to May, if you’ve sown a packet of seed with differing varieties inside. The central head needs to be picked in order to allow the outer stems to branch off and form lots of further florets. Parsnips are one of the few root veg that benefit from being left in the ground during winter; frosts cause the roots to turn sweeter as a natural antifreeze mechanism. Perfect for roasting or making into curried parsnip bhajis.
JOBS IN THE GARDEN >> Hurray - it’s time to snuggle in front of the fire, gather your seed catalogues and dream of spring 2021!
Cranberry, pecan & hazelnut chocolates These sweet treats are a doddle to make and the addition of coconut oil provides seriously, glossy chocccies without any panic about that ‘holy grail’ of chocolate: tempering. Ingredients 75g pumpkin seeds 100g chopped nuts (pecans and hazelnuts) 2tbsp sesame seeds 400g dark chocolate (70%) 1 tbsp coconut oil Vanilla essence Flaky sea salt Zest of 2 large oranges 75g dried cranberries Method Preheat the oven to 200°C and roast the pumpkin seeds, nuts and sesame seeds for four minutes until they start to pop. Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl and heat gently over a pan of simmering water - do not overheat. Stir until melted, then remove from the heat and stir in the coconut oil and the orange zest. Pour the chocolate into silicone moulds, leaving room for the nuts, cranberries and seeds to be gently pressed on top. Leave to set and then unmould and package in small, see through packets or decorative tins.
Sticky onion & cranberry marmalade This is great with cheese and cold meat - and makes a superb accompaniment to pâté.
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Ingredients 100g dried cranberries 300ml port 1.5kg red onions 120ml sunflower oil/olive oil 100g light muscovado sugar 120ml red wine vinegar Little kilner jars Method Place the cranberries in a saucepan with the port and bring to the boil then take off the heat and leave to steep while the onions are cooking. Peel and slice the onions in half, then slice very thinly - a mandolin makes this job much easier (while working in a face visor, as we are having to do at present, it oddly makes your eyes water even more than normal!). Heat the oil in a frying pan or large saucepan; add the onions and cook gently for 30 minutes, stirring from
time to time. Then add the sugar and continue to cook for another 30 minutes until nicely caramelised. While this is caramelising, you can sterilise your kilner jars by washing in hot soapy water and then rinsing with boiling water. After the onions have caramelised,
add the cranberries and port mix, along with the vinegar and cook gently for another 30 minutes until a wooden spoon pulled through the mixture leaves a clear trail showing the base of the pan. Pour into your kilner jars and label. linnelsfarm.com
UPCOMING COURSES @LINNELS FARM CHRISTMAS CALLIGRAPHY WITH LAVELLE LETTERING >> 2 DECEMBER Join Abbi from Lavelle Lettering for a fun-filled festive workshop where you’ll learn the basic calligraphy skills to create your own Christmas cards, decorations and gift wrap.
FESTIVE BAKING >> 10 DECEMBER Join us for a day of festive bakes with not a Christmas cake in sight! Mouthwatering Danish Christmas kringle, crisp Finnish sugar cookies that will last for weeks in a tin, and other unheard of delights to make this year one to remember. For further details and to book visit: linnelsfarm.com
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NEW ARRIVAL
A league of its own Newcastle hospitality with a Yorkshire twist. Café 21 is spreading its wings to set up a new home in York. Elysia Fryer chats to Terry Laybourne about his latest 21 Hospitality Group venture
exceptional food in a friendly, cheerful setting. The restaurant will be open from morning until early evening, so visitors can take a break from shopping for everything from a quick barista-made coffee, to breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea or an early, seasonal supper. “This is an exciting time for 21 Hospitality Group,” says Terry. “I’m delighted to be once again working with Fenwick to introduce our dining experience to another of their stores. “We’ve already collaborated on a number of restaurant projects and it’s a partnership that works very well, so I’m looking forward to bringing our great food to locals and visitors to York. “Many people from the North East visit York, so hopefully they’ll enjoy seeing a familiar brand, and eating familiar food while they’re on location.” Neil Setterfield, Store Director at Fenwick, York, says: “Visitors to Fenwick Newcastle have been enjoying Terry Laybourne’s great food for almost 15 years and I’m thrilled that visitors to the York store will be able to indulge in the same experience. “Terry is an expert in his field, and highly regarded in the hospitality industry, so we are privileged that he’s bringing his food to Yorkshire.” Terry, who was awarded an MBE in 1999 for his services to the hospitality industry, alongside many iconic accolades for his teams, including a Michelin Star and Restaurant Industry Lifetime Achievement Award, is forever looking at ways to breathe new life into the food world across the North. It’s fantastic to see him venturing out into new territories. Yorkshire is no doubt in for a treat. cafe21york.co.uk
Café 21 York was due to open its doors in November, but due to the recent Government announcement, will be opening in December.
Terry on York >> Terry is a familiar face in the North East. Foodies from across the region will have a lot to say about his honest, wholesome hospitality - something that has set the bar high in the Newcastle dining scene for some time now. From a stylish Quayside bistro and a traditional ale house, to a wine-bar café, a refined department store diner, a seafood counter and a butcher-led steakhouse, the group has created a market of its own in Newcastle. Not to mention the most recent project, 21 at Home, a kerb-side collection service that has been bringing the 21 experience to homes across the North East since spring 2020. 21 Hospitality Group has, over the years, built up a solid relationship with Fenwick Newcastle - housing two of their restaurants within the Food Hall, and one on the first floor. Following the ongoing success of Café 21 at Fenwick Newcastle, Terry and the luxury department store have collaborated once again to introduce his fabulous food to shoppers, tourists and locals in the Yorkshire capital. Café 21 is a department store café that dares to be different. It’s a sociable and effortlessly stylish space, serving crafted comforts, lunch bites and sweet treats. It’s a place for friends to catch up over good coffee, to meet for business or to indulge in afternoon tea. It has settled incredibly well into its home in Fenwick Newcastle over the years - offering
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What do you know about York’s food scene? A fair bit actually. I have a number of friends who operate restaurants and cafés in the city, plus I’ve been visiting quite a bit lately.
Where does Café 21 sit in that offering? I’d like to think that Café 21 sits comfortably alongside what’s already on offer. The York restaurant scene is really vibrant and pretty diverse. What we do isn’t at all groundbreaking, we focus heavily on the simple things and try to do them very, very well.
What can visitors expect to see on the menu? A range of simple dishes, designed specifically for daytime eating using the best produce we can find.
What Café 21 staples can existing customers expect to find in York?
the perfect place to rest the legs and switch off for a mid-shopping-trip lunch. It’s sleek, it’s chic and it has a certain buzz about it. Fenwick’s founder once described the department store as a place ‘to delight the thoughtful woman’ - a sentiment that continues to hold true today, and shares the same values as that of Café 21. So,
with the Fenwick York’s in-store café in need of a contemporary facelift, the deep-rooted charm found in Terry’s venues seemed the perfect partnership. Introducing Café 21 York - a light, bright and modern dining space, offering ample space to drink, dine and relax in comfortable, curved booth seating. York diners will enjoy
A number of 21 favourites; from Cheddar Cheese and Spinach Soufflé to Bircher Muesli and Gateau Esterhazy. Crowd pleasers to a fault.
Three words to describe the look and feel of the restaurant? Light, bright and relaxed.
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SUPER STAYCATION
UK GETAWAY:
WHITBARROW, LAKE DISTRICT
Adventure awaits with a winter Lake District getaway. Think breathtaking backdrops, thrilling discoveries and ultimate relaxation with Whitbarrow as your base. Elysia Fryer checks in...
Style >>
Location >>
Inspired by the beauty on its doorstep, Whitbarrow’s Troutbeck Cottage offers luxurious living, cosy furnishings and plenty of outside space for soaking and stargazing. The decor is clean and contemporary boasting wishy-washy wallpaper that creates a waterside illusion - paired with plush cushions, a comfy corner sofa and modern kitchen, fitted out with everything you need for a luxe UK getaway. Bedrooms are beautifully presented with crisp white sheets, blackout curtains and fluffy carpets. The colour palette is based on blissful blues, natural greens and the odd pop of colour to bring the design bang up to date.
Home to a collection of converted lodges, cottages and farmhouses, Whitbarrow sits in a prime position in the North Lakes, surrounded by a bounty of beautiful landscapes. With the spectacular mountains that inspired Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter as its backdrop, as well as the calming waters that give the Lake District its name, Whitbarrow’s accommodation is ideal for a self catering stay in this spectacular region. Troutbeck Cottage is our base for the weekend. It’s the perfect escape for whiling away the hours indoors, or to put the feet up and relax after a day exploring the Lakes. The market town of Keswick, sitting on the gentle shaws between Skiddaw and Derwentwater, is just a short drive away, offering ample opportunities for walking, watersports, shopping and dining. With Whitbarrow as your base, you can explore the Lakes to your heart’s content.
Lay your head >> Troutbeck Cottage is home to three spacious bedrooms, offering something for everyone in your bubble. You’ve got the sumptuous master bedroom with ensuite and private terrace, the stylish twin room and an uber cool bunk room perfect for younger guests. Its beds are enough to send you off to dreamland - floating on a cloud as you drift off. Expect luxurious linen and fluffy pillows, ensuring the cosiest of stays for the colder months. After a hike in the hills, there is no better place to kick off the walking boots, unwind in a robe and drift away from the woes and worries of the everyday. Total tranquility at Troutbeck.
Food & drink >> Eden Cafe Bar is Whitbarrow’s on-site dining destination - taking everything we know and love about this spectacular part of the world and crafting it into creative, seasonal menus - with a few surprises thrown in for good measure. It’s a relaxing space for early family supper, a bright and airy place for a leisurely lunch, or a twinkly setting for date night after dark. If you’re venturing off site, nearby pubs, cafes and restaurants include The Boot & Shoe in Greystone, Cocklakes Farm Shop off the A66, and Troutbeck Inn just along the road. Foodies looking for fine dining in the Lakes should check out The Leathes Head in the heart of beautiful Borrowdale, and Sharrow Bay Country House for idyllic views over Ullswater. Those looking to really treat themselves when staycationing, should wander a little further to Michelin starred restaurants including Simon Rogan’s L’Enclume, HRiSHi at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, and The Forest Side in Grasmere.
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Highlights >> Troutbeck really is a luxe retreat. We are blown away by its beauty as soon as we step through the door. The interiors are swoon-worthy, it feels incredibly homely, and it has everything you need to ensure your staycation is comfortable and stress free. Not to mention the stunning outside decking with hot tub, for bubbling away at the end of the day. Another highlight is our indulgent welcome pack. A bottle of Taittinger on ice, a big bunch of beautiful blooms, and some local Lake District goodies to satisfy the sweet tooth. The perfect start to a perfect escape.
Do this >> Whether it’s a chilled hot tub break or a thrilling, outdoorsy getaway, there’s tons to keep you busy on land and on water in the Lakes. On-site activities at Whitbarrow include: crazy golf, a putting green, swimming pool with steam room and sauna, a state-of-the-art gym, games room, giant chess board, frisbee golf and heaps of space for the kids to let off some steam. Adventure calls just a stone’s throw from Whitbarrow. Our outdoor escapades include a picnic on the water’s edge at Ullswater, a hike up Aira Force - with a tea break at every plunge pool and - the most thrilling of them all - a ghyll scrambling afternoon with the fun folk at Newlands Adventure Centre. All of that, plus plenty of country pubs, galleries, gift shops, scenic drives, cycling, riding and rambling opportunities on the doorstep. luxurylodges.com/whitbarrow
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GORGEOUS GETAWAYS
Isle of plenty How can we escape to a white sand and turquoise water paradise without venturing too far? The answer: Tresco - an idyllic island sitting in a picture-perfect spot in the Isles of Scilly archipelago. Elysia Fryer finds bliss on the island...
Hit the road, hop on a plane and set sail from St Mary’s Harbour and you’re well on your way to island paradise. You’ll travel land, air and sea to reach Tresco, but you’ll feel worlds away from the everyday without leaving the home country. The island dubs itself ‘somewhere else altogether’ - and there’s honestly no better way to describe it. We’re escaping for an autumn break - and although a sun-soaked stay is what springs to mind when you think of a Scilly staycation - the dramatic beauty that comes with the cooler months is quite remarkable.
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Calm, glittering waters quickly turn to crashing waves. Subtropical gardens switch to all kinds of orange. And the warmth of Tresco hospitality pulls you in for a big hug. There’s something incredibly comforting about an away-from-it-all stay on the island, particularly as the dark nights set in. Tresco is a place where you can instantly feel at one with nature. Stand anywhere on the island and it surrounds and embraces you. Think salty gales, peaceful seashores and wild, winter landscapes. The sun is beating down on us as we hop off our Skybus at St Mary’s. A short, 20-minute journey from Land’s End Airport, across the Cornish coast to the Isles of Scilly.
A shuttle collects us from the arrivals lounge, guiding us to our hair-blowing-in-the-wind speedboat trip across the water. That first island approach is something very special. On first view, you don’t know where to look. Beaches, rolling countryside, quaint cottages, wildlife, fishermen - it’s bold, bright and buzzy, but it’s oh-so peaceful. It’s a whole new world. It’s like nowhere we’ve been before - and to think we’re still in the UK is just even more remarkable. Smiling faces greet us as we step foot on the island, and we’re whisked away to our humble abode by golf buggy. Whether it’s a cute cottage, a cosy room at the inn, or an apartment with a view, there’s
something for everyone. Our home from home is a traditional Scillonian cottage overlooking New Grimsby Quay. Boasting sea views to the right and lush, leafy views to the left, we’ve got the best of both worlds. Tresco Island in all its beauty. Log burner lit, welcome hamper open, we’re ready to explore what this enchanting island has to offer. Just a short stroll towards Appletree Bay brings us to the famous Abbey Garden - home to some of the most unique natural beauty in the UK. Featuring exotic plants from across the globe, this foreverblossoming sanctuary is full of life all year round - and it’s refreshing to see as our usual
NOV/DEC20
GORGEOUS GETAWAYS
Tresco is a place where you can instantly feel at one with nature. Stand anywhere on the island and it surrounds and embraces you. Think salty gales, peaceful seashores and wild, winter landscapes
landscape starts to wind down for winter. This always lush oasis is lapped by towering palms and sits within the ruins of a Benedictine Abbey. Today, the Abbey Garden is home to plants from across Mediterranean climate zones - once again, the perfect way to get that far-away feel without leaving the UK. You’ll find everything from King Protea and Lobster Claw, to Echium, Furcraea and Pelargonium. We’re visiting in autumn, so the garden is abundant with reds, golds and ambers. As winter sets in, this is one of the only gardens in the UK that continues to flourish with more than 300 species of plant in flower. Other ways to explore the island include island hopping boat trips, wildlife tours, fishing excursions, boat hire, watersports, gig rowing and snorkeling with seals over at neighbouring island, St Martin’s. On land adventures include tennis, golf, horse riding, bird watching and the chance to explore the island on four wheels. Gallery Tresco is the perfect rainy day activity. Sitting in a serene spot on the New Grimsby waterfront, it is home to the work of many leading artists, ceramicists and jewellers that have been inspired by the beauty of the island. The Tresco Island Spa is a sanctuary within a sanctuary. If the island itself isn’t peaceful enough, this place gives you the space to truly switch off and enjoy a bit of ‘me time’. Complementing Tresco’s natural tonic, it’s the ultimate spot to indulge in a treatment or two, to get the endorphins flowing in the gym, take a plunge in the pool or drift off in the jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. ila is the product range of choice at the spa; a brand centred around the power of nature - an ethos it undoubtedly shares with the island. ila’s natural healing energy, paired with Tresco’s wild landscape, is the perfect recipe for those searching for a peaceful place to relax, unwind and recover. Finding space comes in earnest on Tresco.
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Whether it’s a dip in the clear waters, a sand-between-the-toes stroll along the beach, or a moment of calm in the Abbey Garden, the island comes with its very own natural wellness experience. For guests looking for something to help them relax and refocus, the island’s yogi, Gem Hansen, is on hand for slow flow sessions and restorative classes. Tresco’s gentle and quiet charm makes it the perfect place for practicing yoga. “It’s slow-paced energy, unspoilt beauty and the absolute escapism of a private island, makes it the perfect place for guests to recharge and renew,” Gem tells me. “The air clarity on Scilly is exceptional. Nourished by the sea air, you will breathe better and sleep soundly, too. “Subtle silence also brings a sense of escape - no traffic, no street lights, no light pollution - the magic of starry skies and awaking to birdsong. This unrivalled scenic beauty creates something of a unique experience.”
Gem also hosts regular yoga and wellbeing breaks, inviting guests to get to know the island in a completely different light. Other retreats include musical masterclasses, nature breaks, open water swimming stays, fitness trips, writing retreats, photography workshops and painting breaks. Plenty of opportunity to get creative, stay active and try something new in an effortlessly still, good-for-the-soul environment. Tresco’s food scene is also something worth celebrating. Island restaurants include The Flying Boat - a Scillonian seafood favourite in a prime position with views across New Grimsby Harbour; Ruin Beach Café - a rustic, two AA Rosette restaurant blurring the lines between Mediterranean dining and Tresco’s laid back vibe; The New Inn - a cosy island inn serving gourmet favourites with a seasonal twist; and the Garden Cafe - a quiet spot for tea and cake after exploring the Abbey Garden. Hop in a boat and venture a little further
and you’ll find The Crab Shack on Bryher - a ‘catch of the day’ kind of place overlooking the wave-wracked western shores of the tiny, rugged island. St Mary’s is home to many fine foodie spots including Dibble & Grub - serving tapas, salads, pittas and paninis, all inspired by the flavours of the Med. Tresco’s heart-stoppingly beautiful charm is evident in everything from its natural landscape to its refined restaurants. Throw in a blissful spa, happy, smiling faces, a subtropical garden and adventures aplenty - and there’s something for everyone when looking for a staycation that, to put it simply, has it all. From winter blooms and salty, sea-slinging storms, to rugged beaches and the finest, fresh seafood, the list is endless when it comes to embracing the wonders of winter on Tresco. Plan ahead for an early 2021 Tresco trip of a lifetime. tresco.co.uk
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51
BOW WOW
POSH POOCHES with Alfie, helped by Elysia Fryer
Resident dog
All paws on deck The lighter and brighter months may be packed with poochy picnics, sunny strolls and beachy breaks, but I’m sure our four-legged friends are with us when we say there’s something incredibly enchanting about swapping sandals for muddy wellies, wrapping up to go out walking then enjoying some well deserved family time by the fire. Alfie is a winter pooch at heart. As a Christmas arrival over 10 years ago, he was brought into this world surrounded by family, friends and fireside cuddles, and that’s the way he likes it to be. As he prepares to hunker down for the cooler months, he’s catching up with farmyard friends, picking up his favourite dog-themed decks, and reviewing his copy of Resident Dog - showcasing a stunning selection of handsome hounds and the homes they live in. Here’s to another wonderful winter season - no matter what life throws at us! Alfie, your Luxe pooch x
Alfie loves: Time to deck the halls with festive dogs...
ELLA JAMES >> Crown Scottie Dog Hanging Decoration, £14, ellajames.co.uk
ANNABEL JAMES >> Dachshund Bauble, £7.95, annabeljames.co.uk
SASS & BELLE >> Festive French Bulldog Shaped Bauble, £8.50, sassandbelle.co.uk
CHRISTMAS AT SELFRIDGES >> Cavalier King Charles Glass Tree Decoration £28, selfridges.com
CHRISTMAS AT SELFRIDGES >> Dog Soldier Metallic Glass Tree Decoration, £10, selfridges.com
Luxe Pooch Q&A
Incredible dogs and the international homes they live in... Alfie has sniffed out something seriously special this winter - and it’s a must for any dog-lover’s Christmas wishlist. It’s exactly what it says on the tin - ‘incredible dogs and the international homes they live in’. You’ll lose hours of your life swooning over a fine selection of hounds and houses. It goes without saying, there’s a serious amount of work that goes into making a house a home, and no matter how gorgeous the interiors may be, if you’re a pooch person, it all starts with the dog. An ethos shared by author and architecture photographer, Nicole England, who found that the residence shoots she enjoyed the most were the ones where dogs were present. A room is instantly lifted when a playful pup enters, and it’s something we all enjoy capturing. With this in mind, Nicole set up an Instagram page for ‘Resident Dog’, which quickly led to a luxurious coffee table book showcasing 25 of the world’s most stylish houses and the canines that reside in them. If you’re a pooch-lover with an eye for design, you’re going to love this one. residentdog.net
Meet Hank, the handsome two-year-old Weimaraner. Along with a pack of poochy companions, he lives on a farm in North Yorkshire. He’s built for speed with boundless energy, but he’s ever so affectionate and sensitive - and an absolute hit with the ladies!
DOGGY DOWNTIME After a long day running around on the farm, there is nothing better than resting my legs and lying on my back in front of the log burner. I sometimes have to fight off the other three to get the prime spot, but I usually get there first. Top dog!
LUXE WALKS I get to run free around the farm every day with the gang - although, I have to admit, we can get ourselves into a few unintentional mishaps. We prefer to call them adventures rather than walks.
HOUND HABITS To attract attention I like to place both paws on top of mum’s feet and press down quite hard while stretching into my best downward dog pose. It’s one of the ways I show affection - works a treat every time. Mum, on the other hand, is not so keen if I’ve just come in from the farmyard with muddy feet!
POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT When my local rugby team has a home game. I love to spend the day at Guisborough Rugby Club to catch the action on the pitch followed by heaps of attention from everyone in the clubhouse afterwards.
PUPPY PAMPER I don’t like being wet very much, so I have my own soft towel. I wait for it to
be held up in front of me and I rub my face back and forth until I’m dry and gleaming once again. DOG’S BEST FRIEND My partner in crime is Hattie the German Shorthaired Pointer - we spend hours racing around the fields together at home. I’d also like to shout out to my other roomies, Flo the Terrier and Val our Working Sheepdog. FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY My first day riding in the combine. A panoramic view of the farm, spying on the rabbits and pheasants from a height whilst being fed scraps of dad’s pork pie as we cut the corn. PUPPY A-LISTER? George Clooney because he can wrap the ladies around his little finger, just like me!
Don’t forget to get in touch and send in pics of your pooch for our next issue via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram… facebook.com/luxemag
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@theluxemagazine
theluxemagazine
NOV/DEC20
The
FEST VE edit
Explore GO BEHIND-THE-SCENES
in a fabulous festive home
Celebrate WAYS TO ENJOY
the seasonal magic at home
Indulge HOW TO GET CHRISTMAS
delivered to your door
FESTIVE FUN
Christmas
s r e k c Cra
Diaries at the ready. From festive treats and enchanting experiences, to fun-filled family events and dazzling displays, there’s plenty going on near you this Christmas...
SANTA’S ENCHANTED WONDERLAND GROTTO, THE BOWES MUSEUM
Ho, ho, ho! That’s right, Santa Claus is taking time out of his busy schedule to stop off at The Bowes Museum this December. Take the little ones to meet St Nick and embrace that magical family experience we all know and love. Children will receive their very own pack of Christmas crafts while visiting Santa’s workshop before meeting the fella in the big red suit. The best part? Kids will take away an early Christmas gift. thebowesmuseum.org.uk
ENCHANTED FESTIVE FOREST, RABY CASTLE
Time to revel in the magic of Christmas at Raby Castle. Pop on your winter knits and step outdoors into the enchanted festive forest. Follow the path through the Christmas trees and discover the magical scenes that await. Up for winning a small prize? Be sure to collect the hidden items as you embark on your enchanting wander. Go here for a day of family festivities - guaranteed to give you that warm, fuzzy and oh-so merry feeling. raby.co.uk
festive flavours. Tuck into turkey and cranberry sandwiches, enjoy warm fig, walnut and Wensleydale tartlets, indulge in a variety of seasonal inspired pastries and sweet treats, all paired with a glass of mulled wine or champagne. The perfect winter treat. grantleyhall.co.uk
CHRISTMAS CARRIAGE RIDE, SOUTH CAUSEY INN
Make your Christmas a magical one with a horse carriage ride at South Causey Inn. A glass of mulled wine (or a mini mocktail for children) will be waiting for you on arrival. At your allotted time, cosy up with a blanket and take in the picturesque views as you ride around the Christmas countryside. On your return, the heated, cosy hot spot bar will be open for you to use your discount drinks voucher. Picture this, you’re sitting around the fire pit with loved ones, toasting marshmallows, a glass of mulled wine in hand, singing along to your favourite Christmas classics - it really is the most wonderful time of the year. southcausey.co.uk
SANTA PAWS, DOBBIES GARDEN CENTRE
Our Christmas agendas wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Dobbies Garden Centre. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect Christmas tree or taking your four-legged friend to see the big man himself, there’s fun for the whole family. This Christmas, give your canine or feline companion their own festive experience with a trip to visit Santa Paws at your local Dobbies Garden Centre. Santa selfies, tummy rubs and treats - sounds paw-fect! dobbies.com
WISH UPON A FROZEN STAR, CASTLE HOWARD
Castle Howard is renowned for its spectacular Christmas events - and despite what 2020 may have had in store - this year will be no different thanks to their illuminated Christmas spectacular, Wish Upon A Frozen Star. Families can experience a festive evening like no other as Castle Howard takes to the great outdoors to tell a beautiful story in the form of a magnificent light display. castlehoward.co.uk
SANTA ON THE ROOF, FENWICK NEWCASTLE
Our friends at Fenwick are once again inviting families to embark on their famous Santa on the Roof experience. This magical journey begins with ticket holders riding Santa’s Express Elevator from the shop floor to the rooftop. On arrival, Santa’s singing reindeer is on-hand to greet families before meeting the magical elves and Father Christmas in his cabin. All of that, plus a chance to get creative in Santa’s Christmas Plate factory, magical scenes to explore, a pitstop at Café Claus and plenty of picture-taking opportunities along the way. The ultimate festive day out. fenwick.co.uk
FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA, GRANTLEY HALL
Let the sounds, smells and sights of Christmas draw you in for a magical experience at the gorgeous Grantley Hall. If the impressive grounds and idyllic surroundings weren’t already enough, the luxurious venue is offering a Festive Afternoon Tea menu packed full of oh-so
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Please note: all December Christmas events are accurate at time of print, and are subject to change in line with Government announcements. Please check the venue’s website for more details before booking.
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TREE TIME
SO, WHY SHOULD YOU ‘GO REAL’ THIS CHRISTMAS? WHY BUY REAL?
The scent of a real Christmas tree is the number one reason why customers choose real over plastic. There’s the magical experience of choosing your tree directly from your local grower and making it part of your Christmas celebration. Choosing real British trees over artificial alternatives is also better for the environment. According to the Carbon Trust, a real Christmas tree has a significantly lower carbon footprint than an artificial one. A real pine or fir tree absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen and during its typical 10-year lifespan, it also provides a habitat for wildlife.
TOP TIPS
Buy real, buy British and support your local supplier – your nearest British Christmas Tree Growers Association (BCTGA) member can be found at: bctga.co.uk. To check for freshness, give it a shake a few inches above the ground to ensure most of its needles remain in place. The needles should stay attached to the branch, and not come off in your hand. Some Christmas trees are container grown, which means they have been grown for at least one season in their pots. They are small and seldom more than 3ft. Often, it is possible to lift the tree’s whole root system out of the pot and see the closely woven root which has grown inside. The trees themselves should look fresh. Shop smart by measuring the height of your ceiling and floor space first. Take a tape measure with you and allow enough space for a decoration to sit on top and for a stand in which to secure your tree.
CARING FOR YOUR TREE
To get the best from your tree, the BCTGA recommends: Care - Your tree should be watered and cared for, just as you would with any house plant. To ensure maximum longevity, water your tree each day and it will reward you with that wonderful pine fragrance and great needle retention. Plant – After Christmas, container grown trees can either be planted out or left to grow on in a pot. Disposal – Many BCTGA members and local councils offer Christmas tree collection services, where used Christmas trees are picked up and recycled.
THE RIGHT CHRISTMAS TREE FOR YOU…
Keep it
Real
Heather Parry, Managing Agent for the British Christmas Tree Growers Association, guides us through her top tips on how to buy the perfect Christmas tree this winter...
Nordmann Fir – This is the most popular Christmas tree in the UK as it has excellent needle retention, with lush, dark green needles. They are symmetrical trees with strong branches, great for displaying ornaments. Fraser Fir – These trees have great fragrance with dark green needles that are silvery underneath. Good needle retention and strong, pyramid-shaped branches. Noble Fir – Ideal for great needle retention and a fresh fragrance. With bluish-green needles and short, stiff branches, they’re great for heavier ornaments. Douglas Fir – Probably the strongest scent of all Christmas trees, very popular in the USA. A true fir with great shape but a little harder to decorate with baubles as usually much denser. Norway Spruce – Keep them well watered for good needle retention and enjoy this traditional Christmas tree. Dark green with a strong fragrance along with a great conical shape. Blue Spruce – Beautiful, unique blue colouring, needs watering well and has good stiff branches, great for hanging heavy decorations. An ideal small or second tree. Lodgepole Pine – A low needle-drop tree with beautiful tapering branches, that rarely lose their needles if well hydrated. The needles are green/yellow in colour. The traditionalist’s Christmas tree. Serbian Spruce - Tall and slender, with graceful upswept branches. It has glossy dark green needles with slender streaks of white. A very good ornamental alternative.
LOCAL CHRISTMAS TREE GROWERS & RETAILERS
Stockeld Park Estate, Harrogate: stockeldpark.co.uk/trees Croft Christmas Trees, Darlington: croftchristmastrees.com Meldon Park Estate, Northumberland: christmastreesatmeldonpark.co.uk Northumbria Christmas Trees, Newcastle-upon-Tyne: northumbria-christmas-trees.co.uk
Christmas can’t come soon enough this year, and with early indications that the Christmas tree industry is booming in 2020, our thoughts are turning to the scent of a real tree to mark the festive season. Trees are in terrific condition thanks to this year’s weather, and with many families looking to start Christmas celebrations earlier, we’re tracking down some of the best trees in the region. The last weekend in November is set to be the busiest for our members at the British Christmas Tree Growers Association, with retailers and sellers preparing for an influx of customers buying their trees, a week earlier than usual. All retailers and growers have put in new measures to ensure the safety of customers. Some are also offering click and collect services and deliveries for those who do not want to leave their homes.
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CHRISTMAS CRAFTS
Magical moments
e m o h at
Prefer to enjoy the festivities from the comfort of your own home this year? We’ve got you covered…
POP-UP CHRISTMAS MARKET, THE LITTLE EVENTS COMPANY
Can’t make it to the Christmas markets this year? Fear not, The Little Events Company is on hand to ensure you don’t miss out on the 2020 festivities. Picture this, a pop-up bar, hay bales, your very own igloo and a roaring fire pit from the comfort of your own garden. Get your bubble together for a unique Christmas experience that will go down in history. @thelittleeventscompany_
CHRISTMAS ON THE BIG SCREEN, THE GARDEN CINEMA COMPANY Home Alone, Elf, The Holiday, Miracle on 34th Street - the list goes on. Nothing says Christmas like making your way through a list of the classics. But how does cosying up under the stars with blankets, sipping on hot chocolate and watching them on the big screen from your very own garden sound? Oh-so magical. Don’t forget to wrap up warm. @thegardencinemacompany
DIY WREATH MAKING, PINS PETALS POWDER
Your Christmas decor wouldn’t be complete without a traditional wreath hanging on your door. Attending a wreath-making workshop is essential over the festive period and this year you can get involved from the comfort of your own home. Pins Petals Powder are providing us with everything required to build the perfect festive wreath. Think fragrant pine, eucalyptus, thyme, oranges and cinnamon. You will learn how to create your masterpiece from scratch using traditional methods, following a demonstration video. pinspetalspowder. co.uk
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Santa’s Little
s r e p l e H
Roll up your sleeves. It’s time to get crafty in the Christmas workshop...
BEAT & WHISK FULL DAY HOLIDAY PUDDING PREP, THE COOK’S PLACE >> 6 DECEMBER
Imagine this... three perfectly prepared dishes ready to pull out of the freezer when loved ones arrive for the holiday season. Malton’s The Cook’s Place cookery school invites foodies with a sweet tooth to join a Beat & Whisk workshop where you’ll create three delicious dishes that will make for the ultimate festive desserts this Christmas. Sweet treats include lattice mince tart and damson parfait. This hands-on course will give you the hints, tips and techniques to master mouthwatering puddings ahead of the festive season. A must for foodies this Christmas. thecooksplace.co.uk
LAVELLE LETTERING, LINNELS FARM >> 8 DECEMBER
It’s time to hop, skip and jump into the Christmas spirit with this festive, fun-filled workshop. Creativemakers should head over to Linnels Farm in Hexham for an expert workshop in calligraphy with Lavelle Lettering. Spend the day getting to grips with learning a new skill for creating personalised Christmas cards, decorations and gift tags. You will have the chance to try out different pens and quirky tools while making your own festive stationary and baubles to take home. No calligraphy skills? No worries. This workshop is designed for beginners - all materials are provided, including delicious coffee and sumptuous homemade cakes to keep those creative juices flowing. linnelsfarm.com
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CHRISTMAS CRAFTS
DESIGN YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS BAUBLE, NATIONAL GLASS CENTRE >> THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
Our friends at the National Glass Centre in Sunderland are inviting festive DIY-ers in for a bauble making masterclass. During your creative experience you will be able to pick your favourite colours and design before watching your bauble being made in front of your very eyes by the talented glassblowers. The outcome? A gorgeous festive decoration to take home, hang on your tree and cherish for years to come. sunderlandculture.org.uk
Bauble
Buys
Deck the halls with a sprinkling of the North East. There’s never been a better time to shop local and support independent businesses. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite Etsy sellers bringing a little northern charm to this year’s festivities…
WREATH MAKING, GOLDSBOROUGH HALL >> 5 & 6 DECEMBER
Time to unleash the creative festivities at Goldsborough Hall. Diners are invited to take part in a whimsical wreath-making workshop this December. Guests will be led through a fantastic floristry masterclass in the heated glasshouse in the kitchen garden. All materials will be included as well as a glass of mulled wine, a two-course lunch or festive afternoon tea. Go home with the perfect DIY masterpiece to adorn your door. goldsboroughhall.com
CRYSTAL CLEAR NORTHUMBERLAND
Take the beach home with you. Inspired by the beautiful Northumberland coastline, this ceramic bauble depicts the gorgeous shores of Craster. A handcrafted masterpiece, perfect for the festive home. £6 etsy.com/uk/shop/cclearnorthumberland
IMAGES ON
Exquisite watercolours and Newcastle landmarks, these stunning baubles from Images On make for perfect Christmas tree decorations. £9.99 etsy.com/uk/shop/ louisaetaylor
NETOON CREATIVE DRESS TO IMPRESS, SWINTON ESTATE >> 17 DECEMBER
Creative-makers should wander over to the Deer House at Swinton Estate for a crafty masterclass with floral expert, Susie Hart. Get your home Christmas ready with a fabulous fresh garland to place on your mantlepiece or wrap around your staircase - as well as creating a dazzling dining table centrepiece for your festive feast. Sing-a-long to your favourite Christmas classics while working your festive, floral magic. All materials will be provided as well as delicious refreshments and a fine dining experience at Samuel’s Restaurant. Christmas spirit required. swintonestate.com
A bit of landmark loving. This wonderful handcrafted ornament celebrates the North East in all of its festive glory. £17.95 etsy.com/uk/shop/ netooncreative
HAYLEY’S HANDMADE HEAVEN
Add Newcastle charm to your festive decor. Crafted with the city’s colours and geordie slang, these baubles will sit wonderfully on your tree. £10. etsy.com/uk/shop/ hayleyshandmadehaven
SEWING THE SEAMS OF LOVE
Personal, festive and ohso northern - these crafty baubles from Sewing The Seams Of Love will spread festive cheer for years to come. £6 etsy.com/uk/shop/ sewingtheseams
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SEASONAL BUYS
The Luxe Christmas Gift Guide 3 2
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Gorgeous gift ideas for guys... 1. BARBOUR Dundoon Shirt, £69.95, barbour.com 2. MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait De Parfum, 70ml, £320, harveynichols.com 3. FENDI Cream Logo-Intarsia Wool Jumper, £490, harveynichols.com 4. AESOP Geranium Leaf Duet Body Cleanser and Balm - 2 x 500ml, £87, mrporter.com 5. HUBLOT Big Bang Camo Yohji Yamamoto, £18,900, hublot.com
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6. PENHALIGON’S Holiday Cracker Collection, Gentlemen’s Edition - three crackers, each with an individual 10mk fragrance; Endymion, Halfeti & Juniper Sling), £42, penhaligons.com 7. MR P. Ribbed Wool Beanie, £50, mrporter.com 8. GUCCI Black Logo Piqué-Cotton Polo Shirt, £480, harveynichols.com 9. BOSS Crosstown Black Leather Briefcase, £450, harveynichols.com
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r e h r Fo
SEASONAL BUYS
Perfect presents for the lady in your life… 1. RENNÉ JEWELLERY Gold Crescent Moon & Star Charm, £195 - £225, rennejewellery.co.uk 2. VALENTINO Valentino Garavani Rockstud Black Leather Clutch, £995, harveynichols.com 3. MARELLA Vignola Long Coat With Faux Fur Pockets, £325, fenwick.co.uk 4. DESMOND & DEMPSEY Soleia Printed Cotton Pyjama Set, £150, harveynichols.com 5. THAT’SAHAT! Forest Green Fur Pompom Wool-Blend Beanie, £155, harveynichols.com 6. ACQUA DI PARMA Rosa Nobile Eau de Parfum, £135, fenwick.co.uk 7. UGG Scuffette II Light Grey Suede Slippers, £80, harveynichols.com 8. RENÉ CAOVILLA Kara Leather Biker Boots with Rhinestones, £1,110, renecaovilla.com 9. FITBIT Versa 2 - PetalCopper Rose, £199.99, very.co.uk 1
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Handmade silver, gold and semi precious jewellery designed to be treasured and collected by mother and daughter duo. Shop online: www.rennejellewery.co.uk Follow us: @rennejewellery.co.uk Renné | 8 Grange Road, Darlington, DL1 5NG | 01325 728288
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SEASONAL BUYS
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Fabulously festive treats for the home...
1. BULAN LIVING Dark Noir and Ylang Ylang & Amber Candles, £30 each, bulanliving.com 2. HOTEL CHOCOLAT The Festive Feast Hamper, £300, hotelchocolat.com
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3. SOPHIE JAMES MAYFAIR The Christmas Stocking Candle, £55 (20g), £130 (600g), sophiejamesmayfair.com 4. LOCHERBER MILANO Habana Tobacco Diffuser - Spicy, Amber & Honey, From £60, seymourshome.com 5. GPO Bermuda Record Player in Blue, £149, cuckooland.com 6. BRUNELLO CUCINELLI Cork & Stainless Steel Globe, £640, brunellocucinelli.com 7. THE SNOW GLOBE Orange & Gingerbread Gin Liqueur, £29, fenwick.co.uk 8. LUCY PITTAWAY Bernie and Stan Mugs Gift Set, £29.95, lucypittaway.co.uk
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m e th For
SEASONAL BUYS
Festive treats for pets and little people... 1. BANWOOD First Go! Balance Bike, £138.95, cuckooland.com 2. ELLA JAMES Wooden Gingerbread House Advent Calendar, £59, ellajames.co.uk 3. BEAUMONDE Yellow Corduroy Lion Pouf, £159, beaumonde.co.uk 4. NOA & NANI Erik Toy Storage Box, £59, noaandnani.co.uk 5. HERD MENTALITY Family Board Game, £20, johnlewis.com 6. NOA & NANI Playtent with Blue Stickers Design, £119, noaandnani.co.uk
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1. LILY’S KITCHEN Christmas Advent Calendar for Cats, £9.99, dobbies.com 2. COX & COX Two Gingerbread Friends Dog Toys, £25, coxandcox.co.uk 3. HOLLY&LIL Harris Tweed Dog Lead - Herringbone on Red, £84, charleychau.com 4. SWEET WILLIAM Dog Bowl, £22, fenwick.co.uk 5. LABONI Prado Velvet Dog Bed, £750, cuckooland.com 6. RUFF AND TUMBLE Classic Dog Drying Coat, Bottle Green, £44, ruffandtumbledogcoats.com
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HAPPY HOUNDS
Christmas at home with…
g n u o Y l e a h c i M Gary Hooker & Christmas has come early at Hooker & Young HQ - the home of Gary, Michael and their happy pack of pooches We love doing Christmas in October - and it seems we’re not the only one. When we asked if Gary and Michael would dust off the decorations and set up their home early, they jumped at the opportunity. For us, it meant a day of pooch-fuelled festivities at their home near Newcastle. A trip to see this hairdressing pair is always a joy particularly if, like us, you love dogs and interior design. This time, it’s an extra special visit as they fill their home with Christmas cheer. We’re swapping tea for mulled wine as we sit down and talk dogs, designer homes and dazzling Christmas decks…
FOR US, CHRISTMAS STARTS EARLY... M: It’s the nature of what we do in hairdressing - or
in retail altogether. A lot of our clients come in at the beginning of December for their Christmas appointment, so we’ve got to make sure we’re in full festive mode. That overflows into our home life too. We put our decorations up at the end of November. G: The Hairdressing Awards are always at the end of November, so after that, and before we delve into the December rush, we spend a bit of time getting Christmas on the road. M: This year, the awards will be held virtually, which we’re gutted about as we have seven nominations. But, I’m sure it will still be a big glitzy event and we are beyond thrilled about the awards and the number of nominations we have this year. It’s a fantastic boost after such an unusual year in the salons, so we’re incredibly proud of our teams for what they have achieved. G: I’m hopeless with technology, so let’s hope we can tune in for it!
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WE BOTH LOVE THE FESTIVE SEASON… M: This year is going to be a little bit weird because we
like to entertain. We normally have the guys from work round, we’ll have a girls night with all of our friends - and we have a few family gatherings. On the Sundays leading up to Christmas, we host a massive Christmas lunch for each of our families. G: We end up having three Christmas Days, which is nice because a lot of the time we are actually away for Christmas. We normally fly to Spain on Christmas Eve, so we like to experience Christmas with our families before we go.
WHEN IT COMES TO DECORATING, WE TEND TO GO A LITTLE BIT OVER THE TOP... G: We’ve got so many different rooms with different
styles, it’s a good opportunity to have a bit of fun with it. We don’t like glitzy stuff - we go for a more traditional feel. We went really modern one year and it just didn’t feel right. When we first moved to this house we had a 17ft Christmas tree in the hall. M: It sounded like a good idea at the time, but when we had to decorate it, it was like Trafalgar Square! Step ladders weren’t even a help. I had to hang off the mezzanine floor and throw stuff on. It looked magnificent, but it was hard work. We had family and friends coming over to see the tree - it was like the Fenwick window. G: It drank a bucket of water everyday. We put it up and within two days everything started to drop, so we were freaking out because it was still November, so we did some research and found out that we had to feed it with a bucket of water everyday.
AND WE’VE NOT HELD BACK WITH THE DECORATIONS THIS YEAR… G: We’ve got a great relationship with 5th Avenue
Flowers. For years now, they’ve always done the flowers for the salon. Viv, who is a good friend of ours, has always helped us out. M: But we like to do a lot of it ourselves. We really enjoy pulling it all together. G: I like to go out in the garden as well, a little forage to see what I can find and put a festive spin on it. The garden has been a saviour for me in lockdown, because usually I’m out showing the dogs on weekends, so I needed a new hobby. At Christmas, I like to bring the outdoors inside - the smells are just amazing. Berries, acorns, ivy, willow - I just pick it and arrange it on the
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mantelpiece or the top of the piano, and it just works. M: You can’t beat the smell of fresh flowers and greenery at Christmas - that’s why a lot of people love a real tree, and we’re with them.
PUTTING THE TREE UP IS A BIG THING IN OUR HOUSE... M: We always like to make a day of it. We’ll get up and
see to the dogs, make sure the daily routine is done, then the Christmas music comes on, we pop open a bottle of champagne and off we go. You’ve got to make it an enjoyable experience. One year, I think I was just a bit out of practice - or maybe I was hungover - but I decorated the tree and realised I hadn’t put the lights on first. It was chaos but I refused to take everything off and start again. G: We had one year where we had loads of teddy bears everywhere - it looked amazing, but we got up the next morning and the dog had chewed all of the bears! M: It happened this morning. We had two teddies sitting on the piano. When I came down this morning, Angel had ripped the heads off them. How very festive!
IT WILL JUST BE THE TWO OF US THIS YEAR, WHICH WILL BE VERY STRANGE... G: I won’t be doing anything… I just look after the drinks! Michael does the food.
M: I’m the chef of the house. G: I once did Christmas lunch for my family. It was a
disaster. I dropped the vegetables in the dog bed, I put a duck in the oven but forgot to turn it on - it was still frozen after two hours, I had no gravy - all I had was hot water and one OXO stock cube - for 10 people! I was so stressed out I thought, ‘If anybody says anything about this gravy I’ll scream’. Nobody spoke - there was no festive cheer around the table that day! M: That was his last attempt at Christmas Day - he was mentally scarred. Me, on the other hand, I love cooking. I like having people round for supper, I find it really therapeutic. I always say, if I hadn’t been a hairdresser I’d have liked to be a chef. I get quite creative with it. It has just been a natural progression for me, and a decline for Gary - he used to do half the cooking when we first met, but now he doesn’t do any of it - apart from when M&S steps in!
BOXING DAY IS PARTY TIME… M: We usually have a bit of a soirée at the house with
all of our friends. I usually make a big turkey curry or a chilli - a nice, hearty one-pot dish so everyone can help themselves. That usually goes into the early hours. It’s sad that we won’t be able to do that this year.
THE DOGS’ CHRISTMAS LOOKS LIKE… G: We had to knock the present buying on the head,
as there’s so many of them now - it’s a free-for-all. M: Clients are always really shocked when they ask me what we’ve got for the dogs and I say nothing. G: Michael goes mad and buys things like antlers and Santa hats. On Christmas Eve, we do the rounds of all the salons with our jumpers on and a couple of dogs dressed up. It’s become a bit of a Hooker & Young tradition. M: It all sounds very camp, because it is! G: If we go away for Christmas our dog nanny, Ashleigh, moves in for the week and enjoys it with her friends and
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G: During lockdown, one of our Italian Bolognese, family. If we are home for the festivities, we give her all of Christmas off and I do the dogs while Michael does the cooking.
OUR FURRY FAMILY OF FIFTEEN INCLUDES… G: We’ve got three Great Danes, three Bulldogs, four
Italian Bolognese, three Affenpinschers and two Miniature Dachshunds - I think that’s it! M: We’ve said ‘no more’ for thirty years and we always end up with a new addition, but we’ll see what 2021 brings. No more puppies for now, it’s so hard to let them go. Whenever we breed dogs, we just do it because we want to, not because it’s a business. It’s different with the Great Danes because Gary shows them, so he breeds them for competitions.
Shirey, had puppies - but only because we wanted to have one of her babies. We ended up with eight! But they’re all going to people we know.
ALL IN ALL, WE JUST WANT TO MAKE SURE CHRISTMAS FEELS AS FESTIVE AND AS NORMAL AS POSSIBLE THIS YEAR… G: We all know it’s going to look a little bit different,
but in the salons - and at home - we’re just trying to do everything we can to ensure we enjoy all that Christmas brings. M: Our Christmas appointments are filling up, and the salon is just a great place to be when everyone is winding down and waiting for the party season. G: We just hope that continues this year, which is why we’re well on our way with the festivities. M: Merry Christmas!
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FEAST FESTIVE year with a fully-prepared festive lunch service. With everything from canapes and signature Bay Horse bread, to a smoked salmon parfait starter and a turkey roast with all the trimmings. All of that, plus pigs in blankets, Brussel sprouts, Yorkie puds and a delicious dark chocolate dessert to finish. Other Christmas treats available to order include: coffee and petit fours, cheeseboard, gin package, festive menus for little people and the all-important New Year’s Eve menu featuring beef wellington, monkfish and many more seasonal delights. thebayhorsehurworth.com
DOBSON & PARNELL AT HOME
Christmas delivered
r oo d r u o y to
Get your festive favourites delivered to your door this Christmas… MADE IN OLDSTEAD CHRISTMAS
Our autumn cover star, Tommy Banks, is bringing a proper Yorkshire Christmas to our homes this year with his festive spin on his Made in Oldstead delivery service. The Made in Oldstead Christmas range is a curated collection of seasonal menus and gift boxes, perfect for your festive feasts and for foodie gifts. Using the finest and freshest ingredients from the family farm, the boxes will include first class produce, foraged finds and all of your Christmas favourites. So whether it’s a Gift Box for someone special, a Provisions Box for drinks and nibbles, or a full Christmas Dinner Box packing in everything you need for the big day, let Tommy bring proper Yorkshire hospitality to the most wonderful time of the year. tommybanks.co.uk
BETTYS CHRISTMAS HAMPERS
What’s Christmas without indulgent treats on tap? This year, we’re loving the luxe festive hampers by our friends at Bettys. In the tough times we’ve all encountered this year, nothing says ‘chin up’ like parcels packed with sweet stuff. As ever, Bettys brings comfort and joy to the festive season with treats and traditions aplenty. The Christmas Extravagance Hamper is the most sumptuous in the range and includes champagne, wine, Christmas pudding, fruit cake, tea bags, chocolates, preserves, truffles, biscuits, China mugs and much, much more. Other beautiful Bettys hampers include the Christmas Banquet Hamper, Santa’s Little Hamper and A Gourmet Christmas Adventure Hamper. bettys.co.uk
FLOURISH + RYE
This season, flourish + rye are bringing the best of artisan UK produce to festive tables across the region and beyond. Originally a catering business producing stand-out grazing displays, flourish + rye have adapted to the current restrictions to allow you to continue your seasonal celebrations at home. Their festive products include; Christmas hampers featuring artisan cheeseboard favourites, UK charcuterie, fair-trade chocolate bars, luxury candles, hand-crafted frangipane mince pies, and much,
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much more. Available for nationwide postage and local delivery. Our friends at flourish + rye are also continuing their at-home service throughout the festive season serving four or six. Open up a bottle of your favourite tipple and tuck into a mix of hand-crafted sausage rolls, runny yolk scotch eggs, a mix of artisan cheeses, charcuterie, chutneys and a sprig of mistletoe to help set the scene. A festive board of dreams. flourishandrye.co.uk
AFTER-TOON TEA, CHRISTMAS MENU
Dobson & Parnell at Home is bringing festive delights to the dinner table this season, and it’s a must for those who wish to wind down and let the experts do what they do best. Gather the family around the table and indulge in a three-course feast celebrating some of the finest winter produce the region has to offer. Start with hot smoked salmon, winter vegetable soup or ham hock terrine; tuck into mouthwatering mains such as pan-fried hake, rolled turkey breast or cauliflower and truffle risotto; and seal the deal with almond rice pudding, sticky toffee Christmas pudding or a cheeseboard. Collection and delivery slots available on the D&P website. dobsonandparnell.co.uk
21 AT HOME CHRISTMAS
The seasonal delights of 21 Hospitality’s 21 at Home service will continue throughout December, with a delicious festive twist. The at-home offering will reflect 21’s fixed price menu, celebrating winter warmers in a bold, bistro style. Christmas specials include prime meats, sumptuous seafood and seasonal desserts. Team 21 will also be offering a Christmas Dinner Box packed full of all your festive feast favourites such as Christmas pudding, turkey and all the sweet treats that scream Christmas. 21athome.co.uk
After-toon Tea is the brainchild of North East chef Cal Byerley and his partner Siân. Cal is best known as Head Pastry Chef at Michelin-starred Forest Side in Cumbria. During the uncertain times, he and Siân decided to put their talents to good use by providing a luxury afternoon tea delivery service to Newcastle and the surrounding areas. They’ve added a touch of festive magic to their December menu, which will be available for the first three weekends of the month. Sweet treats include: white chocolate snowman macaron, Christmas stocking satsuma, mini gingerbread house, Dale End cheddar cheese scone, turkey and cranberry sandwiches and giant pigs in blankets sausage roll. Delicious. after-toontea.co.uk/christmas
M.BROWN CATERING
Let the experts do the hard work as you relax and indulge on all the deliciousness that the festivities bring this year. Get Christmas lunch prepared, cooked and delivered direct to your door on Christmas Eve, thanks to the talented team at M.Brown Catering. Whether it’s a big family feast or a more intimate affair this year, Matthew Brown will work his magic to ensure your Christmas dinner runs like clockwork. With over 20 years in the industry as an award-winning chef and caterer, you’re in good hands. facebook.com/mbrowncatering
THE BAY HORSE: CHRISTMAS AT HOME
The talented team at The Bay Horse in Hurworth are taking the stress of Christmas dinner away from us this
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HOME WITH HEART with Kerry Lockwood, interior stylist, blogger and content creator Festive foliage, twinkly fairy lights and fireside fragrances. It’s time to prep the home for the most wonderful season of all... My space It’s that time of year when Christmas starts to creep into the house, so I’ve started to declutter in order to make room for the seasonal decorations. I think it’s totally acceptable to go full on festive at the beginning of November, especially this year as we all need a little extra Christmas cheer. I’ve already started foraging for branches to pop into vases and hang baubles from. Wintry foliage and flowers like eucalyptus and winter berries are my absolute favourite. I also love to spray peppercorns with gold or copper and put them into little jam jars and fill tea light holders with ivy or rosemary from the garden. For me, it’s about bringing in as much of the outdoors as possible. Follow my festive home journey at: kerrylockwoodindetail.co.uk
Try this I’ve always had a real Christmas tree, I love the scent that fills the room; but I also love a very warm house - the heating is constantly on at this time of year - so by Christmas Eve, my real tree is usually a crispy mess and needles are shedding with every sudden movement. So, last year I took the plunge and bought an artificial tree from Cox & Cox. Once it was decorated and in place, I was so surprised to see how much it looked like a real tree. It’s so easy to put up and you don’t have the mess from the pine needles. It was lovely to have a tree that still looked as beautiful on Christmas Day. So, if like me, you’ve been contemplating making the switch then - or if you’re mixing it up with a real tree and an artificial tree in another room - I can highly recommend the Blue Mountain Spruce from Cox & Cox. From £250, coxandcox.co.uk
Question time
Best buy Jo Malone’s new Townhouse Collection is absolutely beautiful. I love the white ceramic vessels which they’re presented in. My favorite for this time of year is Glowing Embers candle, it fills the house with the gorgeous woody scent of a crackling fireplace, perfect for unwinding with a hot drink or a glass of wine on a frosty evening. Bliss. £90, jomalone.co.uk
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Q: I only have a small flat so don’t really have the space for a Christmas tree. Can you recommend any alternatives? A: Christmas trees can take up so much space. If you want a real tree, then go for a smaller one that you could elevate and stand on a table or a console, you can get some lovely mini trees in a bucket - they look super cool. There are also some great alternative Christmas trees available, from wall hangings to Scandinavian style or minimal wooden trees that don’t require much space at all. Another great option is to collect some branches and display them in a vase, you can then wrap fairy lights around them and hang small baubles for a really gorgeous centerpiece. If you’d like me to answer your interior-related questions in the next issue, please post them on Instagram, make sure you tag me @kerrylockwood and use the hashtag #KerryxLuxemag You can read more about Kerry and her home at kerrylockwoodindetail.co.uk
NOV/DEC20
ADVERTORIAL
Small space, impressive design Who knew you could do so much with such little space? For most of us, we’ve spent more time than ever at home this year - making us aware of just how important it is to ensure our homes not only meet our desired interior goals, but are practical too. We check in with NOOK Design to see their latest transformation... THE PROJECT >> NOOK Design were commissioned by the White family to remodel the entrance and staircase of their family home. Since relocating back to the UK with his family from Canada, Mr White expressed that the hall and staircase in their new home felt a little too familiar to the hotel lobbies he spent much of his working life living in. Mr & Mrs White wanted to transform their current interior into a modern, yet traditional space - but most importantly, they wanted to achieve that homely feeling as soon as you walk through the front door. After discussing the clients desired colour palette, preferred textures and overall goals, the team of experts at NOOK Design compiled their sophisticated plan before carrying out work at the property. BEFORE >> Through the front entrance, the White family were greeted with white marble floor tiles, open white space
and dark grey walls. Stainless steel handrails led them up the staircase, giving a corporate feel to the property - reflecting Mr White’s familiar hotel lobby experiences. Fitted with a vibrant zebra skin carpet, the staircase and upper landing area was a space the family were keen to replace with a toned-down, neutral shade. The area underneath the staircase was a simple, open space with no practical use. AFTER >> The white marble ceramic floor tiles were replaced with solid oak flooring. The traditional look and warm hues have helped to create a cosy, homely feel. A warm yellow shade replaces the original white and grey colour palette, complemented with lush greenery, accessories and chic fittings to create the perfect blend of traditional design and contemporary style. The team at NOOK Design worked hard to bring soft, inviting light to the entire space to create a luxurious aesthetic. A warm beige carpet now takes centre stage on the staircase and upper landing. A complete renovation of the staircase has been carried out using solid oak in a light oiled finish with glass balustrade continuing across the upstairs landing. The area underneath the staircase has been transformed into a cloakroom with clever storage, complete with hanging rails, spacious drawers, a pull out shoe rack, shelves and a perfectly placed upholstered seat - not to mention
an impressive recess for a special piece of Canadian indigenous art. Overjoyed with the finished results, Mr & Mrs White said: “We are absolutely delighted with our new staircase and under stairs cloakroom designed and installed by NOOK Design. It is stunning. “The whole process of working with them has been great from the quote and design, where they beat out some noted competitors, to the build where their attention to detail and quality of finish was first rate.” What was once described as a hotel lobby-style entrance hall, has been transformed into a cosy, welcoming space, blurring the lines between traditional charm and contemporary style. “Most importantly of all, NOOK Design were great to work with,” Mr & Mrs White added. “They truly love what they do, which is translated into a top quality end product. “We love what they have done for us, and would work with them again. In fact, We were so pleased with our results, we have already recommended them to family and friends who have also now taken them on.” Looking to transform a small corner of your home? Whether it be a staircase, bootroom, alcove or library, NOOK Design are on hand with their intelligent, innovative and incredibly luxurious designs. For more information call 0191 580 8550 or email hello@nookdesign.co.uk
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BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS
Great things - in the form of Christmas crafts, beautiful blooms and festive foliage have arrived in Guisborough. Elysia Fryer heads to Ruffled Flowers to catch up with florist Jenni Di-Niro
Fresh, festive & flourishing I’m spending a chilly Thursday afternoon rummaging through an Aladdin’s cave of fabulous floral creations and I’m struggling to work out when a trip to a florist went from a quick pit-stop for a Mother’s Day bouquet as a child, to somewhere I can quite easily while away the hours and get lost in the beauty of seasonal blooms. I’m not quite sure where the lines were blurred and my fondness blossomed, but I’m loving every minute of it - even more so as burnt oranges, deep reds and glittering decorations take over the space. There really is nothing more pleasing to the eye - and the nose, for that matter, as I pop in to see Jenni during the autumn/ winter transition. As I enter the new Market Place shop in Guisborough, Jenni is swapping pumpkins and pampas grass for berries and stunning, silvery eucalyptus. A spicy, piney scent fills the room as she hangs festive wreaths and makes up seasonal bouquets. For Jenni, winter is the perfect time to get creative, bundle up stunning, hand-tied bouquets and get everyone together for some Christmas crafts. “Things will look a little different this year,” says Jenni. “But we’ve come up with some creative new ways to deliver our festive crafts and workshops, and we’ve got some lovely winter stock in if people want to come and see us.” Having set up shop on Guisborough high street last year, Jenni and her small but mighty Ruffled Flowers team have used the lockdown period as a time to pivot, adapt and grow. “We opened the shop across the road last November, just in time for the Christmas rush. We had a wonderful winter and 2020 started well, but we
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all know what happened come spring. “But, despite the pressures of the pandemic, we signed the lease on the new shop and it actually bought us some time to get everything together, work on the interiors, and come up with creative ways to continue trading throughout the uncertain times. “The plan is to use the original space as a workshop for creative classes and a base for weddings and commissions, keeping the new space for our day-to-day floristry.” A business plan Jenni was able to put in place throughout the lockdown period, and one that seems to be flourishing into life after an incredibly busy time. “We were really busy with gift bouquets
through the lockdown. I lost all of the weddings I had booked in spring, summer and beyond, but we were able to bump ourselves up with flower orders, which we started sending out nationally as well as locally. “We feel so lucky to be able to continue doing what we love - all while getting our new space ready to welcome customers.” And here we are, heading into the cooler months with no sign of slowing down and a beautiful new shop on the buzzy high street. “It’s my favourite time of the year,” says Jenni. “So it’s been a great time to design and decorate the new space. There’s nothing
better than getting the festive decorations out, adding deep reds and berries to our bouquets and pulling wreaths together. “We’ve decided to expand our offering, creating bespoke bouquets and hand-ties that people can take away and enjoy in their home for the full season. “We’re also stocking some lovely gifts and interior products. Throws, cushions, candles - things that just scream winter cosiness.” In its newfound home, Ruffled Flowers has grown into something of a lifestyle store - stocking everything from gifts and house plants, to cosy furnishings and on-trend home decor. As beautiful as it is, none of this takes away from Jenni’s
We’re also stocking some lovely gifts and interior products. Throws, cushions, candles - things that just scream winter cosiness NOV/DEC20
BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS true passion - flowers. “Every morning we get fresh flowers coming through - but we’re just trying to do more with them to broaden our offering. “When the Government gave us our grant, we invested in a flower chiller, which helps to keep our stock fresh. “Our roses will stay crisper and closed. And that’s a win, win for everyone. When we make a bouquet and it goes out to somebody, the flowers will open up in their home, rather than slowly opening in the shop so they have a shorter vase life at the other end.” Though she’s always been creative at heart, Jenni’s floristry career kickstarted as a welcome distraction and a sense of release to escape a corporate career. “I was working as an events manager at Loughborough University. We lived there as that is where my husband is from. “Work was busy, so in order to switch off and enjoy a bit of downtime, I was looking for something to help channel my creativity. Having previously trained in floristry, it felt like the next natural step. So that’s where it all started. “Our little boy was born four years ago, and during maternity leave, my mind started to wander and I was thinking about my next move - and I was always drawn to my creative instincts. “So, after about six months, we moved back to the North East. As soon as we got back, I had a chance meeting with a friend at a local food festival. We were chitchatting about work and an opportunity came up to set up a small florist at the back of her shop in Saltburn. “We literally started on a sideboard, just selling small hand-ties and plants. Then
we grew into the back room and spent a couple of really fun years working together. “I left to work within our family wedding venue in Brotton called The Arches. With my background in events, it made sense for me to step in and help out wherever I could, alongside doing flowers for weddings. “I did that until last year when we opened up the first Ruffled Flowers shop in Guisborough. “Gradually, I had the urge to expand, get a bit more creative and have my own space to focus on flowers. Last year, my husband spotted the little shop in Guisborough and the rest is history.” This place isn’t about perfectly-formed, regimented bouquets - it’s more about rustling up something unique. It’s more wild and wonderful than neat and tidy. And it works oh-so well with the whole look and feel of the place, which brings us onto the name... “The name came about because I’m Jen and people would call me Jenni Wren. I’m a massive stress head and an overthinker, so my mum would always say ‘don’t let ‘em ruffle your feathers, Wren’ - and it just kind of stuck, so it led to Ruffled Wren, the name of the business when I started down in Loughborough. “Over time, I dropped the ‘Wren’ and now we’re Ruffled Flowers. The name just fits with the style of floristry we do. It’s got it’s own personality - and of course, the branding is really pleasing to the eye. “In terms of the style, the idea was to come up with something quite simple, so that the flowers do the talking. “I’m quite a cluttered person. I like stuff. I like to fill spaces. So I had to rein myself in a little, but we thought, because the >>
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BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS above a dining table, or floral arrangements for businesses. “It’s where I get to really embrace my creative side. Year-round wreaths are really popular too, so this is something I want to offer on a regular basis. “That brings me on to talk about our festive events. Our wreath making workshops are back, but with a bit of a ‘restrictions’ twist.” Jenni is tapping into the ever-evolving virtual world to offer at-home wreath making kits. Creative makers are invited to collect from the store or order online. The pretty-as-a-picture kits will come with festive foliage and all the equipment you need to make your masterpiece, as well as printed instructions and the option to join Jenni and the team live on Instagram for a real-time workshop. A great way to indulge in a good bit of Christmas crafts with loved ones who are not in our bubble. Ruffled Flowers wreath kits are available to buy online. The kits will include a selfcontained, step-by-step guide to crafting your floral masterpiece at home in your own time. Creative-makers are also invited to join Jenni on Instagram Live for a real-time, virtual workshop. The date for the diary is Friday 4 December at 7pm. For more information, visit the new Ruffled Flowers website, or watch the festive fun unfold on Instagram at: @ruffledflowers. ruffledflowers.co.uk
Jenni is tapping into the ever-evolving virtual world to offer at-home wreath making kits. The pretty-as-a-picture kits will come with festive foliage and all the equipment you need to make your masterpiece
colour was quite heavy and luxurious, we didn’t need to go too far with the branding. We just added an elegant touch of gold because who doesn’t love shiny stuff?” The brand’s effortless style and simplicity is mirrored, not only in the beautiful blooms, but in the forward-thinking, sustainable packaging - something Jenni and her team are incredibly passionate about, particularly in the current climate. “We are trying to rid the plastic completely,” says Jenni. “Florists go through a hell of a lot of plastic. Aqua boxes are way over the top when it comes to packaging, but that’s how you’re trained to do it. “We’re not trying to be eco-warriors, but we want to do our bit to help make a difference, and after taking client feedback on board, we’ve decided to do it our own, Ruffled way. “We use recycled craft paper, compostable wrap and biodegradable bags. So with all of your flower cut-offs, you can just bundle it all up, stick it in a compost
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heap and it just breaks down naturally. “Keeping the packaging to a minimum also allows the flowers to do the talking. Stripping things back a little just means that all of the money is going into flowers and not the exterior.” As the Ruffled Flowers empire grows and flourishes in Guisborough, Jenni is using the old shop as a space to map out her ambitions of hosting regular workshops and housing products for her creative commissions - the side of the business that really makes her tick. “The little shop will become my creative space for commissions and craft workshops,” explains Jenni. “Things like home installations and wreaths are massive right now,” she adds. “So we’re trying to tap into that market by giving people the chance to be creative, put in a bespoke order, or have a go at different aspects of floristry themselves. “We can do everything from arches and window displays, to clouds suspended
NOV/DEC20
Durham 0191 384 2277
Darlington 01325 488 619
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Wynyard 01740 645 444
info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk
£700,000
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A stunning 6-bedroom detached property located within a much sought-after location at the head of a quiet cul de sac surrounded by countryside, on the outskirts of Yarm.
An attractive and private family home full of character with interior space belying its ‘cottage’ name, Relly Cottage is a unique property for lovers of the outdoors in an idyllic setting with fabulous views.
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GOING THE EXTRA MILE “I have to say that you have been a breath of fresh air.” Dear Fine & Country Team, Many thanks for the phone call this afternoon to say our offer of 740K has been accepted. It made our day! I have to say that you have been a breath of fresh air. We have dealt with many estate agents during our relocation search, and not come across anyone quite so efficient, enthusiastic and simply as helpful as you. You adapted to my requirements of email updates due to my job and
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Blue christmas >> Indigo interiors to bring the festive season to life using a statement colour
John Lewis & Partners >> Art Nouveau Glitter Peacock Feather Bauble, Blue, £5, johnlewis.com
Sophie Allport >> Home For Christmas Knitted Statement Cushion, £49, sophieallport.com
Marquis & Dawe >> Blueberry Candle Wreath, £15, marquisanddawe.co.uk
Cox & Cox >> Golden Deco Tree, £75, coxandcox.co.uk
Four ways to style your home this Christmas Waterford >> Christmas Snowglobe, £95, amara.com
Merry & bright >> Bold brights to ensure you have a very merry Christmas at home Cody Foster & Co >> Licking Lips Tree Decoration, £12, amara.com
Goodwill >> Glass Jewel Top Bauble, £13, seymourshome.com
Let it snow >> A sprinkling of snow to turn your home into a winter wonderland Sophie Allport >> Home For Christmas Bedset, £45, sophieallport.com
Sweetpea & Willow >> Alaska Fox Throw, £295, sweetpeaandwillow.com
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Curious Rose >> Christmas Stockings, £35, curious-rose.co.uk The Real Flower Company >> Copper, Plum & Gold Christmas Wreath, £120, realflowers.co.uk
<< Antipodream Kip & Co Red Velvet Santa Sack, £49, antipodream.co.uk
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Complete design, supply and installation of the highest quality, customised wood burning stoves and inserts. Most fires are also available for gas. Rockett St George Silver Leopard Print Bauble, £8, rockettstgeorge.co.uk
Cox & Cox >> Leopard Printed Napkins £5.50, coxandcox.co.uk
Love leopard >>
We stock: • Wood burning and gas stoves from luxury Scandinavian brand Rais.Multi-fuel • Gas and electric stoves from the UK's largest stove and fireplace supplier Gazco and Stovax
Hot spots for seasonal home style
• A selection of high-end outdoor heaters and BBQs
Showroom opening times: Tuesday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 10am-1pm
50A Racecourse Road Gallowfields Trading Estate Richmond North Yorkshire DL10 4TG Cox & Cox >> Luxury Handmade Golden Leopard Crackers, £50, coxandcox.co.uk
NOV/DEC20
<< Jan Constantine Sequin Leopard Stocking, £75, amara.com
T: 01748 517171 E: castleviewfireplaces@gmail.com W: www.castleviewfireplaces.com
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FOR THE KIDS
Fun stuff >>
From board games and outdoorsy stuff, to Christmas crafts and oodles of festive activities, there are plenty of joyous treats for little ones to enjoy this winter
Happy holidays If this year has taught us anything, it’s the importance of spending time with loved ones. Getting outside, breathing in the fresh air and knowing it’s okay to press pause and live in the moment DELIGHTFUL DECOR >> Aprons on, sleeves rolled up, pens at the ready - it’s time to get creative. Packed with tons of artistic goodies, this stationary advent box is perfect for arty-types looking to design their own Christmas cards, baubles, gift tags and more. £50, undertherowantrees.co.uk NATURE WARRIORS >> Wrap up warm and head for the great outdoors. This uber-cool nature hideaway kit is perfect for learning new skills, discovering creatures and becoming at-one with nature. £60, thedenkitco.com
The Christmas period presents all kinds of magical moments, from cosying up with a mug of hot chocolate, to watching your favourite festive flick and writing a letter to Santa Claus; but as we embrace the most wonderful time of the year, it’s important to stay as active as possible - whether it’s with an engaging boardgame, a snowy stroll or a crafts session. Here are four ways to keep little ones entertained at home and in the garden over the festive season...
EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS >> Layer up your chunky knitwear, pop on your wellies and brave the cold. Getting outdoors, come rain or shine, is super important - not only for your child’s physical wellbeing, but for their mental wellbeing too. We’ve spent a lot of time indoors this year, so now’s the perfect time to take advantage of some quality time in nature. Head out on a woodland walk, play games in the garden, or go on a family bike ride; there’s tons to explore on our doorsteps - even in the winter. There’s something quite therapeutic about wrapping up warm and feeling the ice-cold wind against your rosy-red cheeks.
UNLEASH YOUR COMPETITIVE SIDE >> ANIMAL LOVER >> Who knew feeding birds could be so much fun? This Children’s Bird Gift Box is a great way to get your little ones interested in nature and the creatures that live within it. Make it, fill it and watch the magic happen. £28, boxwild.com
SNOW DAY >> This traditional wooden sledge is perfect for snow days. No snow? No worries. Use as a festive decoration for your very own winter wonderland. £85, gardentrading.co.uk
Prepare the snacks and gather your gang, a family games night is on the agenda this winter. We can all be guilty of spending too much time in front of the TV, scrolling endlessly through social media and playing video games for hours on end. So, why not try breaking out of your usual routine? Get money wise with a classic game of Monopoly, put your skills to the test in a battle of Charades or work together on a good-old jigsaw puzzle.
GET YOUR CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING >> It’s time to channel your inner artist. Arts and crafts play a vital role in a child’s development. Messy hands, different textures and creative ideas help, not only to stimulate the brain, but allow little ones to develop their motor skills, discover their artistic side and become comfortable with new surroundings. The festive season provides ample opportunity to get creative; from wreath making to bauble painting and card crafting, there’s plenty to keep your bundle of joy busy, whether it be at a Christmas workshop or from the comfort of your own home.
GET CRAFTY IN THE KITCHEN >> Mixing bowls at the ready. It’s time to roll up your sleeves, break out the recipe books and put your baking skills to the test. Whether it’s building a gingerbread house, baking Santa’s cookies or trying out some new festive recipes, cooking or baking is a great way to get the kids up and active. Many skills are being put to the test while getting crafty in the kitchen; from time keeping and cleaning, to mathematics and creative ideas - with plenty of fun thrown in. Nothing says Christmas like the smell of gingerbread and sweet mince pies baking in the oven.
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FOR THE KIDS
Little moments Why the great outdoors is a glorious tool for development in little ones...
If you’re on board with this way of thinking, then how can you increase your child’s exposure to nature? Well as always, we have to be the model for our children. If we start talking about weather in negative terms such as the ‘horrible rain’ or the ‘pesky wind’ then this will filter down to our kids. We need them to know that we value the time we spend in nature too. If children don’t feel a connection to the natural world then there will be no incentive for them to protect it. We need to show our children the wonders of the beaches, the forests, the hills and the rivers, so they will be driven to look after them in the future. Many of my favourite childhood memories are centered around being outdoors; skiing in the
mountains, swimming in the sea, camping in the fields. These are the things I take with me on my adult journey through life and the experiences I had (and continue to have) in nature, have brought me great joy and contentment. So, when you look outside this weekend and it appears dark and cold, rather than shutting the curtains and reaching for the remote, grab your coat and boots and declare a family nature adventure! Get outside and explore what our fantastic region has to offer. Remember, just as Alfred Wainwright said: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing”. Nadia x
Corrina Atkinson Photography Nadia McSheffrey is founder of The Tranquil Treehouse. Nadia works with parents to help them be the parent they want to be and find tranquility in their family lives. She also works with children and teachers to support their own emotional wellbeing. For more information and daily parenting support, follow her at: thetranquiltreehouse.com and on Facebook and Instagram @tranquiltreehouse
Well, it’s that time of year again when we crank up the heating, put our warm socks on and snuggle up on the sofa. When the weekend arrives, staying inside where it is warm and dry seems like the obvious choice but, if we repeatedly do this, it will start to take its toll on our children. To be blunt, it’s not good for them. There is growing research to say that children need to be outdoors, every day, for at least three hours. I know, as a former teacher, that when it is cold, wet, windy, icy or snowing (basically anything other than warm and dry) many schools have ‘indoor play.’ If schools do this over a number of days or weeks, children miss out on vital outdoor time. Now, it’s possible that kids may not want to go outside, in fact they will do anything to avoid it, but they really need to. Let me explain why. Children who don’t regularly spend time outside, playing freely, can suffer. It can be detrimental to not only their physical health, but also their mental wellbeing. There is evidence to show that more and more ‘indoor’ children are struggling with their fine motor skills (e.g. using a pencil or cutting with scissors) and they are unable to regulate their gross motor skills (e.g. bumping into things, lacking core strength and using too much force when interacting with friends). When we restrict children’s movement, these are the results. Some children spend so much time indoors that they are growing intolerant to their natural surroundings. They don’t like the feeling of mud, grass or rain. They don’t like the wind on their face or sand on their hands. It’s almost like they are allergic to it. Author, Richard Louv, coined the informal term ‘Nature Deficit Disorder’ and he is concerned, like many other professionals, that children are not having the outdoor experiences they so desperately need.
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They are becoming disconnected from the natural world. There are a number of benefits for children when they are surrounded by nature; it builds their confidence and resilience, promotes creativity, imagination and problem-solving, provides a different form of stimulation, awakens the senses and gets them moving. It also builds their immune system and they get their daily dose of vitamin D. In our current situation, this is more important than ever. Children become more aware and alive when they are outside. The great outdoors has a wonderful way of knowing exactly what each child needs at the time; it calms those children who are anxious or stressed, whilst providing a vast, exciting playground for those who have energy to burn or physical aggression to channel. There is a saying: “If your children are bouncing off the walls, take the walls away”. I use the outdoors as a form of natural medicine for my son. Back in the good old days, pre-COVID, when children went to birthday parties with other little humans and ate their weight in sugar, we would bundle our son into the car soon after the last candle had been blown out and take him to the beach or the woods to rid his body of the saccharine high. We even tally up our time outside and try to reach 1,000 hours each year. More and more people are starting to realise the benefits of being outside. Outdoor or forest educational spaces are becoming increasingly popular. It’s not unusual to visit an outdoor nursery and see three-year olds lighting fires, using tools and climbing trees. The children are engrossed in their surroundings and they are learning in a very real, organic environment. They use nature as their classroom and without the constraints and restrictions that come with the indoors, children are free to explore, create and develop important skills.
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GOLF GAME XXXXXXXX
Sounds like a plan!
GREEN DAYS
Our luxe guide to the tech, the kit and the people driving the region’s golf scene forward... KIT LIST >> FOR HIM >> ECCO GOLF >> Men’s SThree, £180, gb.ecco.com
FOR HER >> PING >> Women’s Glow Vest, £75, ping.com
Why winter practice is key to your game plan, says the club’s golf pro, Sally Hinton... The clocks have gone back, the darker nights are upon us and we’re diving head first into the winter months. With that in mind, now is the perfect time to visit the driving range and start an off-season practice plan. Winter is a great time to work on your game and make changes as you’re probably playing less competitive golf. Take a look back at your 2020 season and identify your strengths and weaknesses. I would highly recommend working with a PGA professional to make sure you’re practicing the right things in the right way. Try to set out a clear plan of action including range and on-course practice. The courses at Close House hold up extremely well in winter and provide a good test year round. Try to make range practice fun by setting yourself challenges. For example, try using the Top Tracer technology to play courses virtually or take on nearest the pin and long drive competitions. The Close House PGA Academy has all you need for practice in the cooler months. We have 10 floodlit bays with Top Tracer technology and Powertee - plus five additional outdoor floodlit bays. We also have a team of four PGA professionals, designated coaching, custom fitting and putting studios.
Whether you’re new to the sport, looking to get back into golf, or want to make 2021 the year for improving your game, get in touch with the PGA Golf Academy today on: 01661 852255 or sally.hintonlewis@closehouse.co.uk.
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GOING GLOBAL >> It’s not like the game… it is the game! There are a number of hurdles thrown in the way when it comes to winter on the golf course. The dark nights reduce the window for playing time and the blustery Blighty weather can cause all kinds of problems in the long game. So, what’s the solution? There’s no need to pack up your golf bag for the season, we’ve got plenty of options when it comes to getting our practice in - whether it’s working on your swing at the driving range, brushing up your short game or giving virtual golf a go. The TrackMan Virtual Golf Simulator is a software solution that picks up the course and puts it in your home. Stay sharp and keep on top of your game regardless of the season. The TrackMan 4 unit can be installed in your own home, featuring world-famous courses in stunning detail. Train, challenge friends and access ball data to pinpoint accuracy and improve your game. More than 50 of the best courses from across the globe have been mapped using the latest LIDAR drone technology, meaning you can play those holes you’ve always dreamed of while we’re unable to travel to far-flung destinations. Iconic courses include Royal Portrush, Muirfield, Albany and the four legendary St Andrews links courses. From lush country vistas in Ireland to a pristine private community course in Tennessee, a global golf experience awaits with TrackMan. Enquire online for more details on how to purchase your own TrackMan, or try it out at your local club when you can. Local golf clubs fitted with TrackMan technology include: Alnmouth Golf Club, Ramside Golf Academy, Rockliffe Hall Golf, Middlesbrough Golf Club, Saltburn Golf Club and Romanby Golf Academy. trackmangolf.com
DRIVING FORCE >> COMMUNITY BOOST Another glorious golf day supporting local charity. Players turned out in force at a socially-distanced tournament at Ramside Hall to raise more than £12,000 for the Red Sky Foundation. The event, held on #RestartAHeartDay, was a timely boost for the charity which raises money to help support coronary care services across the region by providing support, machines and equipment for the Children’s Heart Unit at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital, along with campaigns to place more defibrillators in communities and schools across the North East. redskyfoundation.com
FOR THE GOLF BAG >> SHOT SCOP >> V3 GPS Watch with Automatic Performance Tracking, £209.99, shotscope.com CANNARAY >> Pro Golfer’s CBD Kit, £100, cannaray.co.uk
CLUBBING IN Prostate Cancer UK has received a welcome boost thanks to a host of North East businesses and sports stars who have clubbed together to help raise over £7,000 for the men’s health charity. Gathering at the annual PK Motors Charity Golf Day at Northumberland’s Matfen Hall, the 26 teams who took part gave generously. Guests of honour included Olympic gold medalist Jonathan Edwards CBE and former Durham and England cricketer, Phil Mustard. The fundraising was inspired by Paul Keighley, owner of PK Motors, who has a friend who is receiving vital treatment for prostate cancer. The total figure raised was boosted by a raffle and auction. gracehouse.co.uk
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GET TO KNOW The Northwest Passage is the Arctic route that links the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean. It has been sought-after by explorers for centuries, who have been intent on braving the ice and storms to find a trade route to Asia. Rowing the passage in a single season is considered the ‘Last Great First’ in adventure circles, but it hasn’t always been possible. Climate change has resulted in the sea ice retreating for longer periods each year, keeping the route open from July to September, which is when we plan to embark on this incredible challenge. We hope to draw attention to ocean conservation along the way. We will be supporting the Big Blue Ocean Cleanup, one of the world’s leading ocean conservation organisations, with research during the expedition. What does downtime mean to you? Recently, I have been oil painting in the late afternoon and reading late at night. Both fitted around training, but I am always looking for a new challenge. LESSONS IN LIFE >> What did you want to be when you were growing up? I loved sport, but sadly was never good enough to take it up professionally, so I thought sports cameraman or commentator would be great jobs. Somehow, I ended up as a chartered accountant running engineering businesses. What is the most important lesson life has taught you? To never give up on a challenge. You will enjoy yourself more if
you take a few risks along the way. What is your greatest fear? Heights. Which living person do you most admire most and why? My wife Lydia, as she has to put up with me and that must take some doing when I am singularly focused on one of my projects. LIVING LUXE >> What is top of your bucket list? At present, it has to be to row the Northwest Passage. This is the ultimate ocean row, the ‘Last of the Great Firsts’. What is your most treasured possession? My 1957 MGA - it’s a beautiful British car. What does the weekend mean to you? Just another day. A memorable holiday? We regularly go to Port de Pollenca with our friends. A place you can enjoy and relax in very quickly. Who would be your top three dinner guests? At present, with lockdown restrictions, I would go with almost anyone - just to get out! The last place you ate? Blackfriars, Newcastle. The last book you read? Heresy by S J Parris. The last thing you listened to? I have recently downloaded the Spotify app and that seems to decide what I listen to. The last thing you watched? The Big Bang Theory. Three luxe things in life? My MGA, my single scull rowing boat and carrot cake. nwp2021.com
THE LUXE LOWDOWN:
PHIL KITE
There’s no sign of slowing down for 59-year-old Phil Kite. He swapped a career in accounting for life as an adventurer. His most recent project, in the plans for 2021, is about gearing him up to take on ‘The Last Great Fitst’ - a true test of human endeavor - to row the Arctic’s Northwest Passage. Elysia Fryer gets the lowdown... GETTING TO KNOW YOU >> Name: Phil Kite Title: Business Advisor, Motivational Speaker and Adventurer Where is home? Gosforth Three reasons you love where you live? Good friends, a great river to row on, and home to my wife, Lydia. THE DAY JOB >> What do you do for a living? In 2017 I left my role as CEO of one of the North East’s largest engineering businesses and took time out to row the Atlantic Ocean. Since completing that challenge, I give leadership advice to business leaders, offer my services as a motivational speaker and have become a bit of an adventurer too. A day in the life of you? My days are often split into quarters... As a business advisor, I support other leaders by providing strategic advice. During lockdown, I have been a guest speaker on a number of Zoom events. I am currently in training as part of an
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expedition to row the Arctic’s Northwest Passage next year, so most days I am training, either rowing on the River Tyne at Newburn, or rowing on a machine in my garage whilst linked up to other rowers on Zoom. I also spend time supporting the expedition with fundraising. On 9 October, we launched our own gin to help fund the expedition and support ocean conservation. Northwest Passage Expedition Gin is now available online and I am jointly responsible for marketing and increasing our distribution network. Finally, lockdown has led me to take up new hobbies such as oil painting, which if I am not too careful, will take up too much of my time - but I’m really enjoying it at the moment. Any on-going or upcoming projects we should know about? My main focus is on next summer’s Arctic row, attempting an expedition like no other - to be the first to navigate the 2,300-mile Northwest Passage by rowing boat.
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LUXE LOVES
LUXE LOVES Luxe luggage The Aston Martin DBX 4-Piece Luggage Set is the ultimate travel addition for 2021 staycations. The set includes two large holdalls and two flight cases made from the finest Aston Martin leather, embroidered with sleek DBX design features. Available in tan, black or colour-matched to the vehicle interior. For more product information, to view or to book a test drive call Aston Martin Newcastle on: 0191 2365 007. newcastleastonmartin.co.uk
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COOL KIT PIAZETTA >> Brushed Wool Single Breasted Blazer, Camel, £295, reiss.com
BURBERRY >> Slim Fit Linen Tailored Jacket, £1,150, harveynichols.com
FENDI >> Black Wool & Silk-Blend Coat, £2,790, harveynichols.com
MAN KIT
luxe tailoring
GEORGE CLEVERLEY >> Nakagawa BurnishedLeather Oxford Shoes, £1,100, mrporter.com
Tip top tailoring for smart season...
TATEOSSIAN >> Signature Vintage Skeleton Rose Gold-Plated Cufflinks, £450, mrporter.com
BELL & ROSS >> BR V3-94 Automatic Chronograph 43mm Steel Watch, £3,700, mrporter.com
FRÈRE >> Brown Checked Wool Suit, £1,970, harveynichols.com
GUCCI >> Checked Wool-Blend Scarf, £310, harveynichols.com
BALMAIN >> Black Leather Belt, £265, harveynichols.com
GUCCI >> Jordaan Horsebit Burnished Leather Loafers, £540, harveynichols.com
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WHEELS IN MOTION
T H E P OW E R TO P E R F O R M
Performance 28 is a Durham-based business bringing mighty motors to the North East market. Elysia Fryer talks prestige cars, petroliana and paintwork with Managing Director, Tony Thomson Estate, Third Avenue, Chester-le-Street, DH2 1AY. What can you tell us about Performance 28? Performance 28 is the only independent prestige and performance car dealer in the Tyne and Wear area. We buy, sell and service handpicked performance cars for discerning drivers. Where can we find you? Our showroom is based in Durham Industrial
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What is unique about your offering? Our showroom environment is completely unique, filled with petroliana and vintage automobilia, providing a fantastic location for the true petrolhead. It’s not just the cars that blow away our customers, the environment itself becomes a real talking point. It’s not unusual for visitors to pop in and see us to spend some time taking
photographs of what’s on offer. We source only the best cars, and prepare them to the finest standards. We are absolutely focused on delivering a great, old fashioned customer experience. Can you talk us through your service areas? We first opened with a view to supply the best in sports and prestige cars - the kind of cars we would dream of owning and driving ourselves. We have since diversified the business to offer services in detailing, paint
correction and ceramic coatings. It seemed a natural progression to offer the prep standards we work to, to a wider audience than just our retail customers. We have just added diagnostic, mechanical servicing, wheel balancing, tyres and repairs to the offering, having secured the services of Paul Stroud, former Head of AfterSales at Bentley and Ferrari. Additionally, we have just signed supplier agreements with Vossen wheels and Akrapovic exhausts - two of the world’s
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WHEELS IN MOTION
market leaders in aftermarket performance modifications - meaning we can supply and fit these products here at our facility in the North East. An incredibly unique offering, and one we are very proud of. Tell us about some of the cars featured in your showroom? We sell all of the major prestige marques. Real head-turners. Our best-sellers are typically, Porsche, Bentley and Mercedes AMG. We also hold stock of Range Rover, BMW Mpower, Mclaren, Lamborghini, Audi RS, Rolls Royce and much, much more. What advice would you give to someone who is looking to buy a car with Performance 28? We supply honest photography of our cars,
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so you can be confident in what you’re getting when it comes to buying at the showroom or by distance if you prefer. All cars are prepared in line or ahead of prestige main dealer standards, and cars come with either manufacturer warranties or are supplied with fully comprehensive one year warranties. We only stock the best examples of each model and are committed to ensuring we deliver a great customer experience from start to finish. What advice would you give to someone who is looking to sell a car with Performance 28? Come and see us and talk about your expectations. We can work with you on market research, agree the level of preparation the car needs to be brought
to market, and finally discuss whether selling the car directly to us, or a sale or return arrangement best suits the customer. A little bit about your detailing products? Paintwork presentation is one of our fortes. We have two full-time detailers and paint correction specialists. We’re firm believers in using the very best products, which is why we are accredited with Kamikaze coatings, the world’s leading ceramic coating manufacturer. We offer paintwork correction, machine polishing and detailing services from site, along with the option to apply any of the full range of Kamikaze paint protection products. What’s in the pipeline for 2021? I’m sure many businesses across the
country will agree that is is an incredibly strange time to make any fixed plans. The business is constantly growing and evolving. I see sales flourishing and us adapting to some electric stock. I can see us keeping a wider range of aftermarket modifications as we find brands we are happy to work with and people continue to want to stand out from the crowd in their vehicles. I also see the need for people to look after their current cars more as the economy shrinks in the immediate future, so regular servicing becomes a more substantial part of what we do at the shoroom. performance28.com Instagram: @performance_28 Facebook: Performance28UK
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PARTING SHOT
Deck the halls >> Festive foliage to add a touch of magic to the merry season. Captured by Nicky Rogerson at bankstudio.co.uk.
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Fuel consumption and CO2 figures for the Volvo Cars range in MPG (l/100km): WLTP Combined 28.2 (10.0) – 166.2 (1.7). WLTP CO2 emissions 228 – 38g/km. Fuel consumption figures are obtained from laboratory testing intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect real driving results. Representative Example: RRP £38,045.00. Stoneacre Pre-registered Price £21,239.00. Cash Saving £16,806.00. Customer Deposit £999.00. First Monthly Payment £278.44. Monthly Payment £278.44. Amount To Finance £20,240.00. GMFV £9,847.25. Interest Payable £2,972.37. Total Amount Payable £24,211.37. Annual Mileage 8000. Duration of Agreement 49 months. Number of Monthly Payments 48. APR 4.90%. Fixed Rate 2.52%. Excess Mileage Charge 14.9p per mile. All offers subject to terms and conditions and are as part of a Stoneacre finance plan. Finance provided subject to status, written details available on request. Models shown are for illustration purposes only. Ask for details. Cars may be in group stock. Stoneacre operate as an Independent finance Introducer from a panel of lenders. Stoneacre do not charge a fee for introduction to a finance provider however we may or may not receive a commission. Offers correct at time of going to press, but may be subject to change. Subject to Your status, if after signing the Purchase Order You sign a Finance Agreement with a Finance Company in relation to the Vehicle, the terms of the Finance Agreement will replace this Supplier Agreement. The standard terms of the Finance Agreement will be stated on the Finance Agreement form that You will be asked to sign. Decidebloom Ltd t/a Stoneacre, Omega Boulevard, Capitol Park, Thorne, DN8 5TX, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our FCA number is 308726. You can verify this by visiting the FCA website or by contacting the FCA on 0854 606 9966.
