Luxe Issue 84 - Nov/Dec23

£5.00 luxe magazine

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2042-1931 ISSN

ISSUE 84 NOV/DEC23

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C H R I S T M A S C R A F T S . Chari ty cham pi o n s . W I N T E R S T Y L E . Festive hap p en in gs. S U P P E R C L U B . M e rr y marke ts . H I P H OT E L S . Gif t guides.

M A N K I T. S p o r t in g m o m e n ts . D EC K T H E H A L L S . Watches. M I G H T Y M OTO R S . I cela n d a d ve n tures . L U X E .

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W I N : A N OV E R N I G H T S TAY AT R A M S I D E H A L L H O T E L’ S A - F R A M E T R E E H O U S E We’ve teamed up with Ramside Hall Hotel to give one lucky reader the chance to win a stylish getaway in a place where luxury meets comfort. Tucked amidst nature, Ramside Hall Hotel’s A-Frame treehouses offer a night of pure luxury and escape. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a memorable retreat with a close companion.

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But the indulgence doesn’t stop there. The private sauna and hot tub are exclusively yours, inviting you to luxuriate to your heart’s content, leaving the worries of the everyday world far behind. Imagine the sheer bliss of unwinding in the tranquil embrace of nature, enveloped by the soothing warmth and serenity of your personal haven. Now who wouldn’t want that?

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To win this amazing prize, simply head to luxe-magazine.co.uk/win and enter your details, or scan the QR code.

Closing date: 31 December 2023

T&Cs: The prize is subject to availability and cannot be taken on a Saturday night. Additional T&Cs may apply, please check with venue directly ahead of booking. *Food allowance in Fusion is £25 per person

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NOV/DEC23

WELCOME

ISSUE 84 NOV/DEC23

contents 10>> Do this

Your cultural calendar for the winter months ahead

17>> 10 things luxe loves ‘Tis the start of the season of goodwill.

We’ve said goodbye to the last of the autumn sun as we head towards toasting our feet in front of open fires with a glass of Malbec and mince pie in hand. At Luxe HQ we love this time of year. Trees with fallen leaves start to twinkle and the dark nights bring us solace that we are heading towards a new year and the chance to start over again.

It’s a time to fill our diaries with the good stuff, gather with friends and family, and really enjoy what our wonderful region has to offer in the winter months.

In this festive-packed edition we’ve been chatting to the brilliant Sara Davies - who’s become a North East icon both in the world of crafting and television. She’s on hand to help us on our way to crafting the ultimate creative Christmas at home.

We’re also rounding up some fabulous festive happenings, sharing some of our favourite Christmas lunch spots, speaking to regional people that know a thing or two when it comes to spreading season’s greetings, and helping you deck the halls with this year’s interior trends.

All of that, plus a chat with Sky Sports’ Pete Graves alongside his new Luxe column, a guide to exploring Iceland, some winter sun inspiration and much, much more.

A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all at Luxe!

Some winter wonders we’re loving this season

22>> Queen of crafts

Sara Davies discusses her career and family traditions

26>> Winter warmers

Connolly’s latest Autumn/Winter 2023 collection We’re delighted to have the Queen of crafts, Sara Davies, as our Nov/Dec cover star. A businesswoman, an entrepreneur and an author, she gives us a glimpse into her Christmas traditions, her career and the importance of family time. Her three Luxe things in life are campervan holidays, running and family.

32>> Style by Bella

We sit down to have a chat with a personal stylist - Bella

37>> Beauty advent calendars A round-up of the best ones on the market

38>> Beautiful mind

Behind the skincare brand - Salt + Steam

40>> A moment of GOZO

All things chocolate with Cathy and Matt Stephenson

44>> A taste of rebellion

We head to Rebel for exceptional food

52>> Gift guide

Fashion, tech, beauty - there’s something for everyone

56>> A Spanish dream

Embark on a journey across Marbella

61>> Christmas decor trends

Remember to check in with us online at luxe-magazine.co.uk See us on social at: Instagram: @luxe_mag Facebook: @luxemag

Festive colour schemes for your home

74>> Driving ambition

Catching up with Robert Forrester, CEO of Vertu Motors

79>> Social Diary

THE LUXE TEAM Christopher March publisher chris@allies-group.com EDITORIAL Elysia Fryer head of content elysia@allies-group.com Nicole Wood nicole@allies-group.com Caroline Dask caroline@allies-group.com Jessica Chipman jessica@allies-group.com Contributors: Craig Iley

Cathy and Matt Stephenson are the owners of delicious GOZO Chocolate.

Having been in the chocolate industry for quite some time now, this year they have launched GOZO - a selection of chunky and full-of-flavour chocolate bars. Their Luxe things in life are chocolate, their pets, including a cat and two golden retrievers - Jess and Dora; and Sunderland Football Club.

Smile for the camera

Scan our QR code and keep up-to-date with the latest luxe moments.

Our partners

SALES Debi Coldwell director debi@allies-group.com Lucy Andrews lucy@allies-group.com PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson nicky@kgphotography.co.uk DESIGN David Stubbs creative director dave@allies-group.com Euan Underwood euan@allies-group.com If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Debi Coldwell: debi@allies-group.com / 07910 918366

Allies Group Ltd, Enterprise House, Kingsway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 OSR allies-group.com All contents copyright ©2023 Allies Group 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, October 2023.

Bella Osterman, a personal stylist, originally from Stockholm Sweden, has been making noise in the fashion scene of the North East.

A guiding light when in need of fashion advice, she sits down with us to share her story. Bella’s three Luxe things in life are her family, 80s pop music and sushi.

luxe is published bi-monthly by Allies Group Ltd

NOV/DEC23

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DO THIS

The agenda: winter highlights >>

Get your diaries ready, it’s time to pencil in a date or two as Nicole Wood rounds-up winter-fuelled fun for all…

THEATRE Nativity! The Musical 14 - 18 NOVEMBER

FAMILY

Ice Skating at Life 11 NOVEMBER - 7 JANUARY 2024

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of ice skating - a quintessential family activity during the festive period. Whether you’re the family show off, an elegant glider or more of a Bambi on ice, all levels of skating are welcome and encouraged. Time to layer up, laugh-out-loud and make some memories. life.org.uk

FOOD & DRINK Cheese and Wine Matching 18 NOVEMBER

Cheese and wine tastings, once considered a fleeting trend of the 1970s, have resurged with a desire that’s stronger than ever. Why, you ask? The answer is simple: these two are a match made in heaven. Their affinity is undeniable, offering countless harmonious pairings that elevate the dining experience.

This November, head to Blackfriars for an unforgettable evening, where top-tier cheeses and exquisite wines come together in perfect harmony. Embark on a journey from delicate flavours to robust and complex profiles, all while engaging in spirited discussions about their unique virtues and seeking those magical matches. Kick off the soirée with a glass of fizz as your palate awakens, and then savour the delights of five carefully curated wine and cheese pairings. There won’t be a pineapple stick or vol-au-vent in sight; this is a celebration of the timeless classics - cheese and wine, reimagined and perfected for your enjoyment. blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

MUSIC Brass in Concert 18 NOVEMBER

This annual contest promises innovative and technically brilliant performances, each uniquely crafted to captivate the audience.

The event gathers brass band enthusiasts who cherish community music-making, offering an inspiring display of energy and vitality. The highlight of the day is the crowning of the 2023 Brass in Concert Champion, a title coveted by only the finest bands. This year’s lineup includes Grimethorpe Colliery, Brighouse and Rastrick, and international favourites like North American’s Fountain City, making it a not-to-be-missed celebration of brass music.

Hosted by the legendary Frank Renton, this flagship event of the annual Brass in Concert Festival is dedicated to nurturing young brass and percussion talent, made possible by the generous sponsorship of Banks Group and Yamaha, in collaboration with World of Brass. theglasshouseicm.org

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Nativity! The Musical is set to dazzle audiences at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House in Newcastle this November. This heartwarming Starlight Theatre Productions show, based on the beloved festive film, brings the magic of Christmas to life on stage. With catchy songs (including all of the favourite sing-along hits from the films including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment, She’s the Brightest Star), charming characters, and a festive storyline, it’s a show that’s perfect for the whole family. Follow the hilarious adventures of Mr Maddens, Mr Poppy and their loveable misfit group of school children as they strive to put on the best nativity play ever. From start to finish, the whole show is filled with joyful spirit and promises to spread warmth and Christmas cheer to all who attend. tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

ARTS & CULTURE

SHOPPING Christmas Fair 17, 18 & 19 NOVEMBER

Get ready for the year’s ultimate festive shopping extravaganza!

Wynyard Hall is gearing up to once again dazzle visitors with its enchanting transformation into a bustling hub of regional bakers, crafters, designers, and more.

This is your chance to explore a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts that are a world away from the ordinary high street offerings. Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit and experience the enchantment of Wynyard Hall at their much-anticipated annual Christmas Fair. wynyardhall.co.uk

ARTS & CULTURE Ayo Akingbade Show Me The World Mister FROM 18 NOVEMBER

Show Me The World Mister at BALTIC is an exhibition by London-based artist Ayo Akingbade. It features two new film commissions: ‘The Fist’ and ‘Faluyi’, both shot in Nigeria. The First explores Nigeria's first Guinness brewery outside of Ireland and the UK, emphasising the politics of its production. Faluyi follows the protagonist's journey through ancestral lands in Idanre Hills, Ondo State, offering a tale of longing, loss, and hope. Akingbade's work, focused on power, urbanism, and identity, will captivate visitors at BALTIC. baltic.art

Lumiere Durham 16 - 19 NOVEMBER

For four nights only, Durham City will be transformed into a nocturnal art experience with spectacular light installations by over 30 artists including Ai Weiwei, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, Chila Burman, Yinka Ilori and Daniel Canogar. Best of all, Lumiere is open to everyone, with no admission fees. It’s a celebration of art and the city’s vibrant spirit. lumiere-festival.com

THEATRE Sister Act 27 NOVEMBER - 2 DECEMBER Get ready for goosebump-worthy, heart-pounding moments as Sister Act rolls into Sunderland. Disco diva Deloris finds her life taking an unexpected turn when she becomes a witness to murder.

Placed under protective custody, she's hidden away in the last place anyone would think to look - a convent! As she aids the struggling choir, Deloris not only helps her fellow sisters discover their true voices but also unexpectedly rediscovers her own. With original music and numbers influenced by the magic of Motown, soul, and disco, this is a musical sent from above, standing as an extraordinary, must-see production that continually uplifts spirits and warms the soul, time and time again. Pop it in your winter diaries! atgtickets.com

FOOD & DRINK Afternoon Tea with Santa THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

Christmas magic awaits at Spanish City! Join Santa Claus in a whimsically decorated setting, where children can share their Christmas wishes while enjoying a delectable afternoon tea featuring a selection of sweet and savoury treats. As well as dining on an abundance of tastebud-tingling delights, little ones and their families will get the opportunity to meet Father Christmas in his grotto, adding an extra sprinkling of festive joy to the occasion. A must-attend event for families seeking a magical Christmas experience in the North East. Book early to avoid disappointment. spanishcity.co.uk

WELLBEING Wim Hof Retreat 26 - 28 NOVEMBER Take part in a transformative Wim Hof Method retreat amidst the picturesque Yorkshire Dales at Swinton Bivouac. Discover the power of Wim Hof’s three pillars: breathwork, cold exposure, and a positive mindset during this two-night wellness getaway. Unlock a host of benefits, including increased energy, improved sleep, a stronger immune system and reduced stress levels.

Swinton Bivouac offers the perfect escape from your daily routine, allowing you to recalibrate and find balance ahead of the busy season. Nestled on the edge of moorland within the Swinton Estate, Swinton Bivouac boasts a remote and breathtaking location with sweeping views of the Yorkshire Dales. Stay in one of their Tree Lodges, complete with tree hammocks, a private wood-fired hot tub, and access to the Woodland wood-fired sauna. Don’t miss this opportunity to rejuvenate your mind and body in this stunning setting. swintonestate.com

NOV/DEC23

DO THIS

FAMILY

FAMILY Castle Howard: Santa’s Grotto 1 - 24 DECEMBER

Let little ones experience the magic of Christmas at Castle Howard’s Santa’s Grotto. Take the opportunity to share laughter and snapshots with Santa in the picturesque Courtyard Grotto, enjoy the lively performance

by Storycraft Theatre, filled with puppetry and boundless Christmas joy, and afterwards meet the man himself and leave with a special gift for the festive season. castlehoward.co.uk

Northern Lights Newcastle 23 NOVEMBER - 1 JANUARY

Introducing Northern Lights, a spectacular new illuminated trail in the heart of Newcastle at Leazes Park. This extraordinary after-dark experience promises to illuminate the city in a way you've never seen before.

Northern Lights will captivate your senses with immersive visuals and breathtaking illuminations that leave you in awe. This winter, embark on a mile-long journey through the stunning parkland, where original audio compositions, dynamic choreography, and intelligent design come together to create a magical spectacle for the entire family to enjoy. The trail offers a fully accessible route, welcoming prams, buggies, and wheelchairs. And that's not all - immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Christmas village, brimming with delectable seasonal treats and drinks. northernlightsnewcastle.com

THEATRE Pinocchio 28 NOVEMBER - 14 JANUARY

Experience the timeless magic of Pinocchio at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal.

Join the wooden toy on his whimsical journey to become a real boy, played

by Danny Adams who is celebrating 18 years at the Theatre Royal this year. Join the fun with Clive Webb as toymaker Geppetto, Joe McElderry as Jiminy Cricket, and Chris Hayward as Dame Rita. A laugh-out-loud panto for the whole family, promising magical moments and endless laughter theatreroyal.co.uk

FAMILY Disney On Ice Presents 100 Years of Wonder 6 - 10 DECEMBER

Join Mickey, Minnie and co. as they transport you into the captivating world of Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder at Utilita Arena.

Little ones can witness the luminous debut of Mirabel and the enchanting characters from Encanto as they glide gracefully on ice. Embark on a thrilling voyage alongside Moana and Maui as they endeavour to rescue the cherished island of Motunui. Join Anna, Elsa, and Olaf as they work their icy magic to bring back summer, and revel in the harmonious melodies and graceful moves of the Disney Princesses as they chase their dreams. Immerse yourself in the heartwarming bonds of the Toy Story gang and the endearing duo of Dory and Nemo. Disney on Ice is a winter spectacle the whole family will love. utilitaarena.co.uk

ARTS & CULTURE The Holiday Popcorn and Prosecco Event 8 & 15 DECEMBER

Experience the magic of Nancy Meyers’ heartwarming Christmas film, ‘The Holiday,’ starring Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black, and Cameron Diaz, for irresistible romantic escapism at Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle this December. As part of the venue’s enchanting Christmas programme, you can enjoy this festive favourite on the big screen while sipping prosecco and indulging in popcorn. Join Iris and Amanda on their charming journeys of love and self-discovery in this gorgeously uplifting treat, complete with a stellar ensemble cast. Time to relive your favourite festive flick. tynesidecinema.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK Black & Gold Christmas Party THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER

Time to get party ready with an evening of Christmas sparkle at The Vermont.

Overdressed? There’s no such thing! Expect diamonds, pearls and sequins galore.

Your evening begins with a welcome drink followed by a delicious three course meal and a night of dancing at the disco with The Vermont’s resident DJ. It is party season after all! vermont-hotel.com

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Image: Gary Lintern

FOOD & DRINK Stargazing Suppers 1, 8, 15 & 16 DECEMBER

Discover the magnificence of the night sky with an exciting stargazing experience amidst the enchanting backdrop of High Force Waterfall in County Durham. Start with a three-course dining experience at High Force Hotel, followed by a scenic stroll leading to the cascading waterfall, now bathed in enchanting illumination.

Gaze up at the stars using the astronomy binoculars provided and deepen your appreciation for the celestial wonders that unfold above. Whether you’re treating a fellow star enthusiast to an evening of cosmic discovery and enlightenment, or savouring it with your beloved partner, cherished friends or a family member, this experience promises an unforgettable adventure of the night sky in winter. raby.co.uk

FAMILY Christmas Horse Carriage Rides THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

Looking for a magical winter adventure for all the family? Take the whole gang on an enchanting winter expedition starting at the charming South Causey Inn, leading you to the iconic Causey Arch on a delightful two-mile carriage ride with the splendid horses of North East Carriages. Take your place in the hooded carriage, where a cosy blanket awaits you, as well as hot water bottles, delectable Christmas cupcakes and your choice of mulled wine or hot chocolate. It’s an experience like no other! southcausey.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK Festive Afternoon Tea with Carols 3, 10 & 17 DECEMBER

Treat your tastebuds - and your ears - to a delightful Festive Afternoon Tea with harmonious melodies of the Hurworth Choir at Rockliffe Hall this December. As the sounds of traditional Christmas carols and festive favourites are performed by the talented choir, indulge in a delectable spread of festive finger sandwiches and seasonal savouries, followed by a tempting selection of homemade yuletide cakes and freshly baked cranberry scones, served with clotted cream and fruit preserves. Complement your afternoon tea with a choice of coffee or loose-leaf tea, meticulously curated for Rockliffe Hall by their team of tea mixologists, who source only the finest tea leaves for your enjoyment. A festive dream - don’t miss it! rockliffehall.com

FAMILY Breakfast with The Grinch 16, 17, 23 & 24 DECEMBER

‘Tis the season for festive-fuelled events with our favourite Christmas characters. This season, take your little ones to the County Hotel in Newcastle to indulge in a very special - and a little chaotic - breakfast with The Grinch. Children and parents can indulge in a delicious home-cooked buffet breakfast and enjoy plenty of laugh-out-loud moments as the mischievous green-coloured character and sweet Cindy Lou come to say hello. But that’s not all children on the nice list won’t be going home empty handed - they’ll be leaving with cherished memories and a special gift from Santa. countyhotel.co.uk

MUSIC Christmas by Candlelight 28 DECEMBER

Looking to embrace the Christmas spirit this year? Then head to Newcastle Cathedral and get ready to experience a spectacular live ensemble that echoes the magic of Christmas through festive hits performed live by Candlelight. This unforgettable evening will feature iconic sing-a-long tracks like ‘White Christmas,’ ‘Let It Snow!’, ‘Santa Baby’, ‘O Holy Night,’ and ‘Winter Wonderland.’ Head along for an exhilarating concert that promises to infuse your festive season with the joyous spirit of a ‘Holly Jolly Christmas’ for the entire family to cherish. newcastlecathedral.org.uk

NOV/DEC23

ADVERTORIAL

Unwrapping the Legal Implications of Luxury Gifts

XXXXXXXX

Coming soon to Sunderland Empire

As Christmas/special celebration dates arrive, so often do presents. It is always a wonderful time to receive a specially selected present. For some this can be a simple and inexpensive gift, but what if the item is that which would be regarded as a luxury item?

As Christmas/special celebration dates arrive, so often do presents. For some this can be a simple and inexpensive gift, but what if the item is that which would be regarded as a luxury item?

It is not uncommon for generous gifts to be made by one party to the other. These could be in the form of jewellery or luxury handbags, shoes, or designer watches. We are all aware of Louis Vuitton/Chanel handbags, Louboutin shoes, Rolex/Cartier/Patek Phillipe watches to name just a few of the higher end designer products that are Wendy Beacom frequently advertised.

Over recent years, the values of these items have risen exorbitantly with high demand and limited supply driving the increases in the resale value of these items. Such pieces were always regarded as investments with these holding their values. Indeed, media reports suggest that Rolex watch values for example increased more than gold or some investments on the stock market in the past few years.

But do expensive gifts really matter when going through matrimonial proceedings such as divorce?

These types of items though are treated as chattels in the same way as a vehicle would, and if they have a value of £500 or more, the item must be disclosed. If there is a dispute as to the value, then depending upon proportionality against other assets, the item(s) may have to be valued independently.

What if a party seeks to suggest that the item is no longer in existence? Evidence will need to be produced as to the disposal of the item and monies realised. If there is a bare denial of an item ever having existed, then be warned if there is photographic evidence available to prove that the item did exist.

The courts do take a dim view of a party seeking to hide the existence of or the disposing of an item to avoid it being taken into account during matrimonial proceedings and can “add back” a value attributable to the missing item. I always state to clients that transparency is key so there is no hint of their credibility being brought into question.

When is a gift a gift or when does it become a matrimonial asset then? There are often arguments as to whether an item was a gift or not. A prime example would be that the funds came from a joint bank account, but one party clearly had intended it to be a gift to the other. Clearly this is a grey area given the source of funds suggests that it is a joint venture, but the intention that it was gift from one party to the other suggests that ownership vests in the recipient.

Whilst in the majority of cases, there is surplus cash to invest in these high-end purchases, it can also be the case that luxury items are gifted from third parties, e.g., parents or inherited. These are arguably what are known as non-matrimonial assets in the same way that property or chattels purchased pre-marriage would be deemed on the face of it. There are arguments that these should be ring fenced but sometimes if the value of other assets are not sufficient to resolve the claims of both parties, then even non-matrimonial assets can come into being.

However, whilst the court can make orders for the sale or transfer of ownership of chattels, whether that be property, cars, or expensive gifts, the overall value of the parties’ assets really determine how the chattels are dealt with.

In the majority of cases, resolution will be based on each party’s needs. Should there be insufficient capital to settle the needs of both parties, then assets can be directed to be sold irrespective of the background to the purchase/gift. If, however, there is more than enough to resolve matters for both parties, then it is unlikely that the ownership of the chattel will move from one party to the other or be sold as it is not required to meet a party’s needs.

For more information in relation to chattels or matrimonial matters, or to speak to a member of Tilly Bailey & Irvine’s Private Family Law Team, contact us on 01740 646000 or visit www.tbilaw.co.uk

NOV/DEC23

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CHRISTMAS CRACKERS

Santa’s little helpers >>

Roll up your sleeves, it’s time to get crafty with our pick of six festive workshops happening across the region this Christmas…

Chocolate Making 1 DECEMBER

If you can’t indulge in chocolate at Christmas then when can you?

Swinton Estate is inviting you into their stunning country kitchen to learn the skills required to create professional quality chocolate confectionery. From delectable flavoured chocolate truffles to beautifully moulded delights, these comprehensive classes cover it all.

A hands-on approach is encouraged and all ingredients and equipment will be provided. So whether you’re looking to add a new string to your bow, create delicacies to indulge this festive season or master the art of thoughtful gift giving, this workshop is for you. swintonestate.com

Festive Floral Table Arrangement Workshop 13 DECEMBER

Elevate your Christmas agenda with Grantley Hall's exclusive Festive Floral Table Arrangement Workshop, led by acclaimed UK florist, Jonathan Moseley. During this special December masterclass, participants will have the unique opportunity to learn firsthand from Jonathan as he guides you through the creation of a captivating holiday table display using sensational seasonal flowers.

All the essential tools will be provided, though bringing your own floristry scissors is recommended. Your ticket for the day includes a delightful itinerary: enjoy a warm welcome with tea and coffee, followed by an engaging festive floral arranging class with Jonathan. Then, take advantage of a Q&A session where you can pick Jonathan's brain and explore his shop, before indulging in a delectable two-course lunch accompanied by a glass of wine or a soft drink.

The day concludes with a captivating demonstration and interactive workshop leaving you with your very own luxury festive table flower arrangement to take home. Don't miss this chance to infuse your holiday gatherings with the elegance of floral artistry. grantleyhall.co.uk

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Caroline Dask curates a list of periodicals that made 2023 empowering, thrilling and all-round inspiring...

No Worries If Not by Lucy Nichol An absolute must read for those who just simply can’t stop apologising for everything. When we say everything, we mean - everything! If you find yourself in situations where you mutter the word ‘sorry’ when a girl at a bar spills her drink on you, or agreeing to go on dates with people you are incompatible with, just to avoid hurting their feelings - then you are very much like Charlotte Thomas, the main character in this story. Explore life with Charlotte as you and her both learn how to stop apologising for your existence, once and for all.

Festive Candle Making Workshop 16 NOVEMBER

Add a touch of warmth and light to your home this Christmas. Looking to get crafty and try your hand at something new? Then a trip to Linnels Farm is the answer. This informative and practical course, hosted by the incredibly talented Caroline from Bernicia Candles, invites you to craft your very own candles, including a luxurious 40-hour glass candle, a charming quilted jar candle, two dainty mini glass candles in your preferred fragrances, and even hand-rolled beeswax tealights.

Choose from a variety of seasonal fragrances and containers to create and take home.

Plus, you'll receive creative packaging ideas to transform your creations into delightful Christmas gifts or simply enjoy them as stunning additions to your home decor.

The course includes morning coffee, cake and a delicious two-course lunch by Papaya Catering. All you need is your creativity and festive spirit. linnelsfarm.com

I’m Not Done With You Yet by Jesse Sutanto If you were a fan of the widely popular Netflix series ‘You’, you will surely be a fan of this book by Jesse Sutanto. Two former best friends, Jane and Thalia, met whilst studying at Oxford University. As the two women become adults, Jane develops an obsession with Thalia, a fully-fledged, successful writer, unlike Jane, who is, well... a nobody. With gripping storyline and jaw-dropping plot twists, this book will leave you falling down the rabbit hole of toxic friendships.

The Silence Project by Carole Hailey On her daughter’s thirteenth birthday, Rachel decides to start living in a tent, choosing not to speak to anyone ever again.

Soon enough, other women join her, forming a community.

Eight years later, Rachel and her followers worldwide die by self-immolation, an event that gains even more influence than before. Experience life through Rachel’s daughter’s eyes as she witnesses the community become a worldwide cult, one that she, eventually, finds herself joining.

The Forgotten Girls by Monica Potts Although an American story, it’s one that fits the mould of Britain too. This book tells the real events of two childhood best friends.

Both of whom were ambitious, thirsty for knowledge, and full of hope to make it out of Arkansas. While Monica makes it to New York to become a journalist, Darci becomes a single mother of two with a drug problem. Join Monica on her journey back home to find out how and why her friend’s life went the opposite way.

Yellowface by Rebecca F. Kuang This twisted story will leave you craving for more from this author. Jane Hayward, a struggling writer, finds herself witnessing the death of her former classmate, who just so happens to be an industry darling. Not long after, Jane starts editing her deceased friend’s unfinished novel, and the more she edits it, the more possessive she gets. After publishing it under her own name, Jane receives recognition and praise, but will her secret stay hidden? An important story about cultural appropriation, false identity and social media.

Baltic Shop Creates: A Felt Christmas Decoration 16 DECEMBER Join Rosie Anwara for an exciting and festive crafting experience as she leads a workshop on crafting felt decorations inspired by popular culture. Get ready for a creative journey into the world of DIY holiday decor. What's in store for you? In this engaging workshop, you'll dive into the art of crafting and sewing your very own Christmas decorations.

You'll have the freedom to add your personal touch, making each decoration uniquely yours. Whether you're a seasoned seamstress or a complete beginner, this workshop welcomes enthusiasts of all sewing levels. baltic.art

Luxe reads

Wreath Making Workshop 25 NOVEMBER (OTHER DATES MAY BE AVAILABLE)

Unleash your creativity this Christmas and create a wreath you're proud to adorn your front door with. Kate Norris, a horticultural expert hailing from Northumbrian Flowers, is on hand to help bring your creation to life.

Your day of crafting begins under Kate's guidance, fueled by a cup of tea or coffee.

Then, savour a delicious three-course lunch in the banquet hall complete with a glass of fizz and wine. All of this is included for £89.90 per person, and you'll leave with your very own handmade wreath as a holiday keepsake. Don't miss this creative and culinary experience. blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

Mother Hens by Sophie McCartney Hilarious, scandalous and a must read for anyone who calls themselves people pleasers. Four best friends, no kids, no family, no rules - only broken hearts and secrets - heading to Ibiza for the ultimate hen do. While sun-soaked days and bottomless Sangrias might be what they expect, hiccups and mayhem is what they get and the past? Well it always has a way of catching up with you. This book was Sunday Times #1 bestseller earlier this year and for good reason!

One Blood by Denene Millne Three generations of women, each with their own struggles, discovering what it truly means to be a family. Grace who moves up north and falls in love, only to be giving birth to a girl that quickly gets taken away; Delores - a fierce, beautiful and intelligent woman, who sacrifices her dream of becoming a model to have a family; and Rae - Delores’s daughter, who just found out she’s adopted. A heartbreaking yet beautiful story of black motherhood.

NOV/DEC23

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WINTER SCENES

♥ NE

Our wonderful region through your lens. Here are some of your recent shots from days out in local beauty spots

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4.

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1. Laura Kennedy, @laura_exploring_, Northumberland National Park 2. Matt Hetherington, @matt_h_drone, Newcastle, Quayside 3. Rachel Riley, @the.ginger.geordie, Blyth Pier 4. Emma Locke, @capturingnorthumberland, Northumberland

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NOV/DEC23

OUR PICKS

Kitchen inspo…

The Christmas Pantry Indulge in The Christmas Pantry, a lavish hamper crafted for sharing with loved ones.

Ideal for giving as a gift, or for stocking up for those impromptu Christmas gatherings, this generous basket includes over 20 irresistible items, such as a variety of wines, as well as sweet and savoury snacks, all beautifully arranged in a handily reusable wicker basket. £199.95 spicersofhythe.com

Pampering with…

Neom Organics London Perfect Night’s Sleep Magnesium Bath Milk Imagine a bath that feels like you’re cocooned in a warm fluffy blanket, filled with fragrant bubbles that evoke the festive spirit. Infuse the water with the sweet aroma of English lavender, chamomile and patchouli. Allow the feeling of tranquillity to wash over you, maybe light a candle to enhance the ambience, or play your favourite festive tunes. Close your eyes and breathe in the comforting scent, feel relaxed and at peace. This is the perfect way to unwind during the Christmas chaos.

300ml, £40 johnlewis.com

Watching…

Best. Christmas. Ever!

Every Christmas, Jackie sends a boastful holiday newsletter that makes her old college friend Charlotte feel like a lump of coal. When a twist of fate lands Charlotte and her family on Jackie’s snowy doorstep just days before Christmas, she seizes the opportunity to prove her old friend’s life can’t possibly be that perfect. Starring Heather Graham, Brandy, Jason Biggs and Matt Cedeño. netflix.com

10 things luxe loves Winter wonders: from irresistible scents and dreamy destinations, to exciting reads and indulgent treats, Jessica Chipman picks out 10 things we’re loving at Luxe HQ this season

Following…

@andrewsturdyphotography Photography so good it looks like the front of a Christmas card! Andrew Sturdy is a North East based photographer whose expert camera skills result in the most spectacular landscapes and seascapes. Be sure to give him a follow to see more astounding images of our breathtaking region. instagram.com/andrewsturdyphotography

Listening to…

Christmas Recycled Food, packaging, decorations, and gifts are essential parts of Christmas, but they also have a significant impact on our planet’s wellbeing.

Christmas often seems to be a season of excessive consumption, taking a serious toll on our environment. However, there is reason for optimism. Rima Ahmed introduces us to a dedicated group of Christmas enthusiasts who offer a solution to a question we’ve neglected for too long: Can we celebrate Christmas sustainably? bbc.co.uk/sounds

Perfect scent…

Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense Jo Malone is the epitome of Christmas fragrance, and allows you to customise your signature scent by either wearing alone or layering with another to create a personalised aroma. Treat yourself or a loved one this Christmas because let’s be honest, we all get excited when we see that cream and black box!

100ml, £150 fenwick.co.uk

Dreaming of…

Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti – Dolomites, Italy If you’re dreaming of a proper white Christmas, this is the answer. What could be better during the winter than waking up to crisp white trees and an untouched blanket of snow on the ground? Lefay Resort, with its woodland setting and stunning architecture, seamlessly imitates the splendour of the Dolomite peaks. The interior design incorporates wood, stone, glass, and leather to complement the mountainous landscape, while the floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the sun sets, the enrosadira - the pink glow of the Dolomite mountains illuminates the sky, and guests can enjoy the warmth of fire pits around the pool and terrace, creating an unforgettable experience. fandptravel.com

Reading…

A Winter in New York by Josie Silver What better way to welcome the cosy winter evenings than with a warm cup of tea in one hand and a good book in the other? Snuggle up under a cosy blanket besides the fire and open the first page of A Winter In New York. The story follows Iris, who arrives in the city of dreams, intent on restarting her culinary career, and leaving her recent heartache behind. Wandering the streets at a famous food festival, Iris feels like she’s living in a movie. Then she stumbles upon a gelateria that looks strangely familiar.

Inside, she meets Gio: a perfect leading man with an irresistible smile - and a crisis of his own. £8.99 penguin.co.uk

Living by… “Nothing ever seems too bad, too hard, or too sad when you’ve got a Christmas tree in the living room.”

Nora Roberts NOV/DEC23

In our basket…

Seymours Home Goodwill GLT Poinsettia Tree Topper Having a beautiful decoration at the top of your tree is an essential finishing touch to your Christmas decor. The Poinsettia tree topper from Seymour’s Home is unlike traditional tree toppers like stars or angels, adding a modern touch to your decorations. It’s crafted to resemble the beautiful and iconic poinsettia flower, which is known for its vibrant red and green leaves that are often associated with the holiday season. £24, seymourshome.com

luxe-magazine.co.uk

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HELPING HAND

Sweet charity

The People’s Kitchen >>

Christmas is a time to show kindness and give back, so here at Luxe HQ, we’re sharing a few ways to help out this holiday season, one charity at a time…

We caught up with Charlotte Campbell, director of fundraising at Children’s Heart Unit Fund What inspired the start of Children’s Heart Unit Fund?

Established by the Scott family in 1979, Chuf began as the Lesley Anne Scott Memorial Fund. Lesley Anne was born with a serious heart problem and received treatment at the Children’s Heart Unit at the Freeman Hospital. It is one of only two places for paediatric heart transplant in the UK, with the most complex cardiac cases being treated here in the North East.

After Lesley Anne’s death, her mother Anne Scott, along with a small group of heart parents, made it their mission to raise awareness of the unit. When Anne Scott retired as a trustee in 1983, it was her wish that the charity should be renamed The Children’s Heart Unit Fund and so Chuf as we know it today, was born. In 2023 the charity celebrates 40 years of being there when in matters most!

What are the charity’s main goals and ambitions?

Chuf’s vision is to support pioneering services that positively impact heart families, inspire hope, and enable Heart Heroes to reach their fullest potential.

The charity aims to provide top-up support above and beyond NHS capacity by providing specialist equipment, staffing, facilities and holistic services that would otherwise not be possible. We endeavour to keep the North East at the forefront of world-class cardiac care and provide support to six other hospitals providing cardiac care across the north. Our work with the NENC CHD Network and specialist world-first positions continues to positively impact the wider community of Heart Heroes across the country.

What services or resources does Chuf offer to help children and their families in need of specialist care?

Chuf has funded everything from the building of Scott House, a parent accommodation unit on the grounds of the Freeman, to the majority of echo machines in hospitals across the region. We’ve created a world-class play and sensory room, outdoor play space and prime pumped the play team service, so that children can still play, learn and develop

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their skills whilst in hospital. Working with Tin Arts to provide the Clown Doctor Service for over 17 years, we’ve helped to equip young Heart Heroes with coping mechanisms to meet unanticipated difficulties that come with their lifelong conditions. Chuf proudly brought pioneering machinery such as the Organ Care System to the region. But most importantly, we champion the small things. When you have a seriously ill child in hospital for long spells, you’re unlikely to be thinking about expensive pioneering machinery and specialist staffing. Whilst we do fund these things, we hear back from families time and again how much difference the little things made to their day-to-day experience. Practical support with things like emergency washbags, accommodation, parking costs and food, removes unnecessary burdens at a time when families already have so much to worry about.

We are here for life, which is why Chuf supports pioneering research and services that contribute to better life quality and better chances for present and future generations.

We help to make time in hospital more bearable with small gestures that have a big impact on mental wellbeing. Things such as facilitating family get-togethers and seasonal celebrations, ensuring they can stay connected with super-fast wi-fi or pass long stays with activities all help to keep them upbeat.

Where do most of your proceeds go?

Chuf works closely with the NHS Trusts, medical staff and families to ensure that funds are targeted to where they are most needed. We respond to requests from the wards and clinics for equipment as well as for staff training or research that will improve the service. Chuf funds a number of services that have become integral to life on the Heart Unit. This includes: The Clown Doctors Programme, Vcreate software, portable equipment (Sats/INR machines, baby scales and heart monitoring tapes), emergency wash bags, surgery bears, bereavement bags and memory charms, feeding families vouchers, emergency accommodation, seasonal treats, toys and craft materials for the playroom, as well as specialist staffing. We are also commited to

annual events for heart families that have left the unit, including: the British Transplant Games, Chuf Toddle and Chuf Christmas party.

What are the main challenges that Chuf faces in its mission, and how can the public contribute beyond monetary donations?

As in every sector right now, we are seeing the impacts of the cost-of-living crisis. It presents a challenge for Chuf to, not only maintain the existing services that we provide, but to support expansion to meet the growing need.

Chuf is a reasonably small team, so in the run up to and delivery of our larger events we often seek support from volunteersthis is another great way for local businesses and individuals to support the charity in a non-monetary form.

What are the future plans and goals of Chuf in terms of expanding its reach and impact on the community?

It’s no secret that the NHS is going through tough times in terms of funding and resources. That’s why Chuf’s support is so vital for children and families receiving treatment. Our top-up support, means that they and the medical staff who care for them, have access to the services and equipment they need, when they need it.

At our recent 40th Anniversary Ruby Ball, Chuf launched a brand new capital appeal ‘The Seven’, in response to a large request from regional cardiothoracic teams for seven new pieces of state-of-the art equipment. This includes echo machines as well as portable equipment.

We were thrilled at the generosity of our corporate supporters who, along with the Sir Graham Wylie Foundation, helped Chuf to raise a whopping £130,424 at the Ruby Ball. This the cost of the first piece of equipment secured - how amazing is that?

We plan to raise at least £250,000 in the first stage of the appeal, then a further £400,000 in the next couple of years so we still have a long way to go. As such we’re eager to work with the local community to get them involved in next year’s events and to forge new trust and corporate partnerships to help us achieve our goal. chuf.org.uk

The People’s Kitchen is a heartwarming community organisation dedicated to providing food, shelter, and support to those in need, especially during the Christmas period. Their mission is to combat hunger and loneliness by offering hot meals, companionship and a sense of belonging. You can play a pivotal role in spreading holiday cheer by volunteering your time and donating food, clothing, or funds to support their initiatives. Whether you’re lending a hand in the kitchen, organising a festive event, or contributing resources, your efforts can make a significant difference in brightening the holidays for those less fortunate and fostering a spirit of togetherness and compassion, something that is so important during the holiday season. peopleskitchen.co.uk

Salvation Army>>

The Salvation Army has been a symbol of compassion and assistance for vulnerable communities for over a century. No exception this Christmas, they are initiating a few ways to help those in need. During the festive season, Salvation Army runs the programme called the Christmas Present Appeal that invites you to contribute to the happiness of underprivileged children by donating Christmas gifts at your local Salvation Army charity shop. This is a chance to brighten up someone’s festive season with a doll, a teddy bear, or a book. A small act of kindness that will no doubt put a smile on children’s faces. Other ways to help out include making a direct donation to their Christmas Appeal fund or joining their ‘Be A Star’ campaign by organising a fundraising event. salvationarmy.org.uk

Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter>>

Christmas Market and Dog Show, 2 December, Benton Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter is a dedicated haven for animals in need. This Christmas, you can spread cheer by attending their Market and Dog Show. By participating, you will not only get an opportunity to stroll through some local stalls full of unique gifts and treats for you and your furry friends, but you will also support a local charity looking after pets who need some extra love and attention during these cold winter months.

You are more than welcome to donate toys, towels, blankets, and pet food every Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 1pm and 4pm. Every little bit helps and your involvement will no doubt strengthen the shelter’s mission and spread warmth to animals during this special time of the year. dogandcatshelter.com

NOV/DEC23

Dream making to trailblazing An all girl education will help your daughter be the girl she wants to be.

Senior School and Sixth Form Open Morning Saturday 11th November Register now for our Open Mornings at newcastlehigh.gdst.net

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16/10/2023 14:32

Dining at The Glass House, Wynyard Hall Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Wynyard Hall, The Glass House beckons you to embark on a culinary journey like no other Step into The Glass House, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of elegance. Our contemporary design, accentuated by stunning surroundings, sets the stage for a dining experience that’s both visually and gastronomically captivating by providing a fusion of modern innovation and classic tradition, showcasing a diverse range of dishes, using only the best produce that the region has to offer including produce from the kitchen garden at Wynyard Hall.

Our chefs have curated a special menu that pays homage to seasonal ingredients. From traditional dishes to delicate seafood, every dish is a tribute to the finest local produce.

If you’re looking for somewhere truly special to dine this festive season don’t miss out on the opportunity to dine at The Glass House this Christmas and New Year. Gather your friends and loved ones and reserve your table online to embark on a memorable culinary adventure.

Our expert staff are ready to make your experience extraordinary, ensuring every bite is as unforgettable as the surroundings.

Looking ahead into the new year? January is the perfect time to enjoy the delights of The Glass House. With a fresh year unfolding, what better way to start anew than by indulging in delicious food with those you cherish? The Glass House welcomes you with open arms, offering a haven of warmth to chase away the winter chill.

The Glass House at Wynyard Hall is where culinary artistry meets luxurious ambiance, providing a remarkable setting to celebrate the new year. So, seize this opportunity to make unforgettable memories. Book your table online now and let The Glass House at Wynyard Hall be the backdrop to your first unforgettable dining experience of 2023.

NOV/DEC23

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LUXE PEOPLE

MY KIND OF CHRISTMAS WITH: Luxe catches up with the queen of comedy, Miss Rory, on all things Christmas ahead of her panto role as ‘Rorina La Plonk’ in Beauty and The Beast at Sunderland Empire this December My typical Christmas day routine… It tends to start and finish with food - with more food in the middle. We have a nice breakfast, and lounge around for most of the morning, then go over to my parents’ house with the family for lunch, swiftly followed by tea. Then back home for the all-important Eastenders Christmas episode, then a little bite to eat… then bed!

I’ll be spending Christmas at… This year, for the first year ever, in my own home. We usually go to my parents’, but we decided to host this year as we’ve just bought a new

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Miss Rory

house with ample room for entertaining.

My husband, Chris, is an amazing cook, so he’ll be busy in the kitchen. I’ll be clock watching to make sure everyone’s out before (you guessed it) Eastenders. I’m thinking of installing a klaxon to signal departures...

I’d hate to come across as rude.

My Christmas traditions… I’ve always worked over the Christmas season - and I’ve been lucky enough to spend Christmas working at Sunderland Empire since 2019.

So, I suppose that’s now my tradition - and I love it. We get to be a huge part of other people’s Christmas traditions now, and in turn, they become part of ours. I take November off before rehearsals start and we tend to go away (usually New York) so I get a bit of relaxation and the festive spirit over there.

Treasured Christmas memory? Every Christmas, especially Christmas Day, is special. Spending time with family, relaxing and having a good time is very precious.

My skin is also grateful, as I don’t have to shave!

Your perfect Christmas dinner? No cranberry, I just can’t get away with it. Other than that,

chuck it all on. There’s a yearly debate as to whether Yorkshire puddings belong on a Christmas dinner. I shan’t get into that.

But I would pose the question as to whether anyone actually likes turkey - or do we just eat it because we’re supposed to?

My Christmas decor… My husband, for all that he isn’t a ‘Christmassy’ type, takes full control with the trees. We have two - a large one in the sitting room, simply dressed in lights. Then the ‘pièce de résistance’ in the dining room - a really traditional American vintage sort of affair - reds, whites and greens with a lot of glass ornaments. I’m a big fan of a poinsettia too, so there’s usually quite a few of them dotted around the place.

Favourite Christmas song? After years of playing Christmas songs at Boulevard, I’ve desensitised myself to them. I hear the first bars of Mariah Carey and break out into a cold sweat. I do love a carol though.

Favourite Christmas film? Santa Clause the Movie is an absolute classic and one I’ve watched every year since I can remember.

Favourite thing about the festive period?

It has to be panto. The whole process is

exhilarating - seeing a show come together in just a couple of weeks, and creating something really special, at a really special time of year.

Your festive season is of course very busy with your panto schedule, tell us a little bit about your role in Beauty and The Beast this year and what families can expect?

This year I’ll be ‘Rorina La Plonk’, she’s the housekeeper at the Beast’s castle, and mother to Louis (my hilarious panto partner, Tom Whalley). She’s sassy, a bit glam and very funny. This is going to be a spectacular production - full of heart, laughs and magic.

Favourite thing about panto? All of it! It’s hard work, but extremely rewarding. We’re not saving lives, but we are making people happy - which in my eyes is extremely important at the moment.

Finally, what are your three luxe things in life? Travel and socialising - I love to get away, both with my husband and with our friends; or just go somewhere really nice when we’re home - Khai Khai in Newcastle is an absolute favourite. So I suppose that’s three?

NOV/DEC23

s r e h c u o V Gif t The perfect present this Christmas All Year Round Memberships | Afternoon Teas Dining Experiences | Luxury Stays

www.raby.co.uk/gift-vouchers

CREATIVE CHARM

Queen of crafts “At the end of the day, Christmas is about family. It’s about being together with the people you love,” says Sara Davies as she sits down with Nicole Wood to discuss all things Christmas, crafts, career success and family traditions

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NOV/DEC23

CREATIVE CHARM

When I say ‘Christmas is the most wonderful time of year’, I truly mean and believe it. For some, Christmas comes with stress, pressure and worry. But for me, Christmas is so much more than the perfect turkey and gifts under the tree. It’s a feeling - and everything about the season fills me with joy. Christmas crafts, festive flicks, iconic songs, twinkling lights, good deeds, quality time together and cheese boards in abundance; I simply wish we could all go back to basics and embrace what Christmas should be about. Renowned as the ‘Christmas Queen’, when I heard about Sara Davies’ new craft book, I knew it would fill my little elf heart with joy. Sara Davies, like me, is very much a lover of the true meaning of Christmas. When the opportunity presented itself to catch up with Sara over our love of all things Christmas, a coffee date was immediately booked in.

Business meets creativity for Sara Davies MBE, a business mogul, TV celebrity, and crafting aficionado, who has been making waves on both sides of the Atlantic. A woman of many talents, Sara is not only the youngest-ever female investor on BBC One's Dragons' Den, but also the visionary founder and creative director behind the global crafting empire, Crafter's Companion. With an empire spanning 40 countries and offices in the US and UK, she has managed to merge her passion for crafting with a keen business acumen, proving that creativity can indeed flourish in the world of business.

There’s simply no stopping Sara Davies.

She’s a woman on a mission and her latest venture is going to put smiles on the faces of many creative folk this Christmas. ‘Craft Your Year With Sara Davies’ is a delightful and accessible guide to crafting through the seasons, offering over 70 step-by-step projects suitable for crafters of all levels.

Whether you're a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of crafts, or an experienced creative maker seeking new challenges, this handbook is a treasure trove of ideas, tips and tricks.

"Crafting is everything to me,” says Sara.

“But for a lot of people, it's a bit scary. When you used to say 'craft' 10 years ago, people would think of their grandma knitting.

Crafting is so much more than that - and for a lot of people, they love the idea of it, but they don't know where to start.”

For Sara, this new and exciting venture isn’t just about creating beautiful things; it's about making crafting accessible to everyone. She draws a parallel between her love for crafting and her own challenges in the kitchen.

"It's like me and cooking,” she starts.

“I love the idea of having friends round for dinner and cooking a beautiful meal, but I have no clue where to begin," she laughs.

Just like the recipes she follows in her cookbooks, Sara believes that crafting can be demystified through step-by-step instructions and guidance.

To bridge the gap between the allure of crafting and the practical know-how, Sara decided to create something special.

"I create tonnes of videos, and a lot go viral on social media, but it's one thing

to see it when you're scrolling on your phone, in comparison to referring back to something when you need it. So, I thought I'd pick my top projects and put them into a book. It's not just any book - it's a hardback luxury coffee table book filled with beautiful colours and glossy images.

There are over 70 projects included, and they go through all the seasons of the year.

"When you're looking for something new to buy your loved ones for Christmas this year, the book has got you covered. How many times have you bought your mum one of the 20 new cookbooks that launch in time for Christmas? Well, not this year. It's a go-to easy, guaranteed winner Christmas present that will keep them busy all year-round.”

For my Christmas-obsessed self, the winter section of the book immediately grabs my attention, but the beauty of this handy guide is that there’s something for every season.

It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

"I love crafting seasonally. Just before speaking with you, I’ve been working on some Halloween crafts. I’ve made a wreath for the front door and some cute little pumpkins to put up in the kids’ bedrooms, and I just love it," she says.

I thought I’d pick my top projects and put them into a book. It’s not just any book - it’s a hardback luxury coffee table book filled with beautiful colours and glossy images

NOV/DEC23

Seasonal crafting is a way to infuse every moment of the year with creativity.

"I always craft by theme, and I like to set aside half a day every couple of months, but that’s what’s so great about crafting, you do what works best for you" she adds.

But what inspires the queen of crafts?

"You don't always need to reinvent the wheel. I don't always sit and come up with brand-new ideas all the time. They're sometimes adaptations of other ideas that I've seen," she shares.

Sara dreams of inspiring people to put their own spin on her projects and spark a chain of creative evolution.

“Christmas crafts have always been a huge tradition in our family,” she says.

“About 20 years ago, my mum came up with the idea that we should make Christmas gifts rather than buy them. Well little did she know how competitive her two daughters would get over who could make the best Christmas gift - and ever since we’ve always rolled our sleeves up when it comes to Christmas. My sister is just as creative as I am and when she moved back to the North East, her house wasn’t quite ready so she lived with us for around nine months and was here over the Christmas.

That year, we had a massive Christmas crafting weekend and made everything we needed for the festive season.”

It’s not all glitter and sequins, though.

There’s a certain amount of pressure that comes with being a recognised crafts expert - especially during the festive season.

“People expect big things. I always feel the pressure to hand make my children’s teacher gifts. I always feel like it has to be bigger and better than the year before. I wouldn’t

dare buy something, it’s got to be a handmade gift and card,” she laughs.

“All jokes aside, I love crafting with the kids at Christmas. It’s such a special tradition we follow each year. But if there’s something I know I want them to do, I have to plan every detail and prepare it within an inch of its life. That way, it’s organised fun and it all gets done,” she says with a smile.

“As a family, we love making decorations for the tree. We make new decorations every day, for ourselves, but also for the kids to gift to their grandparents. Salt dough is the best stuff you can use for this. Paper bag stars are also a great decoration to make for the home. A couple of years ago, I took some old paper bags, cut them into shapes, glued them together and they made a big beautiful star. I remember hanging them in the lounge and when my mum came for Sunday lunch, she started taking them down and when I asked her why she said, ‘these will look lovely in my hallway, you can make some more’.”

“Creating a Christmas wreath is also a huge part of our festive traditions. Although, last year, me, my mum and sister went to a wreath-making workshop and loved it. We loved it so much, we ended up doing an autumn one with them and we’ve booked again for this Christmas. I spend so much time teaching craft lessons, so it’s nice to go somewhere where they tell you what to do and they make you a cup of tea. You make a mess in someone else’s place and they clean it up,” she laughs.

Losing track of time and finding ourselves down a wintry slope discussing all things Christmas, we share our favourite craft ideas and I soak up some top tips when >>

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CREATIVE CHARM

it comes to wreath-making.

Chatting with Sara is effortless and as she shares her upcoming Christmas plans, my heart fills with joy to hear the wholesome family traditions that mirror my own.

“Christmas Day for us is always a huge family get together,” she starts.

“Every year, I have a house full. I always host my mum, dad, my sister, her husband, my niece and my sister's in-laws, as well as my in-laws and of course me, my children and my husband. That was a mouthful,” she laughs.

“But we just all love being together and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I do all the cooking and hosting and my sister organises all of the drinks and games. We have our roles and it works a treat,” she shares.

Sara has many hats to wear in her work and home life, and one of the biggies is her flourishing TV career.

"I was filming Dragons' Den in the summer, and that is due to air in the new year,” she says.

“The show, which has been growing in popularity, featured some guest Dragons this season which was very exciting. We had Emma Grede from Shark Tank and it was great to gain insight on her attitude and understanding of the business. She's British but living in LA so it was fascinating to get her perspective on business.

“We also had Gary Neville. I didn’t know much about him, but I certainly didn’t know he was such a business mogul, so it was brilliant to learn from him. It was fantastic having them both on this season. I love the social side of doing Dragons’ Den, I get to spend 18 days with some of the biggest and best business minds in the

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country,” Sara smiles.

Another fascinating TV project was the Ultimate Wedding Planner.

"Other TV work I’ve done has been focused on me as a business person, but my first love is crafting, and it was a privilege to be asked to be the craft judge on the show.

“I didn’t get to do as much crafting as I would have liked and I remember there was one episode when one of the contestants was working through the night on a project where she had bitten off more than she could chew and I got my glue gun and started helping her. The cameras were off, the interview was finished and someone said: ‘Sara, you can go to bed now!’ and I was like ‘No, I’ll just stay and crack on’ and the executive producer had to come in and say ‘No Sara, you can’t actually help them’.

I was gutted, I just had to go and sit in my hotel room knowing I could have been downstairs helping. So, that was definitely a hard part of the show. I would have loved to have gotten more involved with the crafts, but we’re there to judge and offer guidance, not to do it for them.

“I thoroughly enjoyed that show and it was flexing new muscles for me because even though I’ve done TV work before, Dragons’ Den feels like a business environment and the cameras are like flies on the wall, so I never really think about how I’m coming across on camera. Whereas on this show, I was interviewing. I don’t have a journalistic background, so that was a new skill I had to learn and being a judge was a completely new experience. I definitely think my experience on Strictly Come Dancing helped me because as a contestant, I knew what it was like to be judged and I had an enormous

amount of empathy for how those contestants would feel. I remember trying to think back to how I felt when people were critiquing me and I always remember Shirley Ballas was so fair and offered advice, but she always left me feeling pleased with myself and I thought that's how I want to make others feel.

“Our job isn’t to just judge them, it’s to help them get better. I also tied it into managing my own staff in the business. Feedback is the best way for someone to improve. It can be difficult to hear, so I've had endless amounts of training on how to give constructive feedback. I think it's the most important skill any leader can have and so I try to put what I’ve learnt over the years into practice.

“I love working in TV and I’m very fortunate to have a lot of exciting opportunities come my way, but sadly, I can’t accept them all.

I live here in the North East and a lot of celebrity game shows or whatever else it might be are often filmed in London or Glasgow, so it’s not just a couple of hours for me, it’s a full day including travel and accommodation.

“One project I did make an exception for was Antiques Road Trip. They came here to the North East and it was with the wonderful Amy Dowden. She’s going through such a tough time with her cancer battle at the moment and I just have a lot of love, time and respect for her. I loved being a part of that.

“Another one was Channel 5’s Million Pound Motorhome. My dad is very handy and made us a campervan. When we were younger, we couldn’t afford holidays abroad, but he renovated a van into a motorhome and we’d go away on UK holidays. In lockdown, we couldn’t see my dad, even when you were allowed in certain numbers, because he has COPD so I bought him a 20-year-old caravan and he pulled it all apart and completely renovated it and now we’re all in love with our campervan. Channel 5 had obviously read about it so contacted me and said we'd love to feature you on Million Pound Motorhomes. I said, ‘But it's not worth a million pounds’ (my dad's very proud of the fact that he did it all under £13,000) but anyway, they explained it isn’t just about the super expensive motorhomes and ended up shadowing us while on a family weekend in the Lakes in April. That was a lovely thing to be a part of. It reminded me of my childhood - centered around family time and being crafty.”

For Sara, balancing work and family is essential.

"My family is always the priority," she says.

“2023 has been a year of work hard, play hard. I’ve got young kids and with such a busy work schedule, it’s been important for me to take big chunks of time off to spend quality time with them.

“We’ve spent some time in Scotland in our campervan, me and my sister took my mum and all the kids away on a Disney Cruise

and then I've been exploring Norway quite a bit too. Work is extremely busy and that’s why when I am spending time with my family I want to make sure it’s pure quality time,” she adds.

Sara's crafting business, Crafter's Companion, has experienced remarkable growth in recent years. The surge in crafting during the pandemic presented both challenges and opportunities.

"The pandemic saw the crafting market expand enormously," she explains.

The company had to invest heavily in upgrading systems, studios, and logistics to meet the demand for crafting supplies and inspiration.

"We had to invest in our buildings and our space. We’ve done so much work at our Newton Aycliffe base," she says.

The expansion was necessary to keep up with the increasing number of customers discovering the joy of crafting.

For aspiring crafters who dream of turning their passion into a career, Sara, with her Dragon hat on, offers some expert advice.

She suggests starting crafting as a side hustle - a manageable way to explore your passion while maintaining financial stability.

"When you’re starting out, especially with something like crafting, it can be a big leap of faith to just quit your day job," she cautions.

Christmas is a great time to give crafting a go. There’s so much opportunity to get creative in your own home. If you realise you have an eye for crafting, another great thing about this time of year is that there is an abundance of markets and fairs to showcase your products.

“Spend your evenings and weekends on the thing you love, showcase them at markets and once you’ve tried that enough and you know it works and your product sells, it’s not such a big leap of faith. It gives you the opportunity to dip your toes in the water, to work out how much time needs putting in to generate a certain amount of product and how easy it is to transfer that into revenue.

A side hustle is a brilliant way to start,” Sara suggests.

Chatting with Sara is like catching up with an old friend. As we begin to say our goodbyes, I’m in awe of the woman I’ve had the pleasure of chatting with. Diving into family values, Christmas traditions, the world of business, TV insights and a few off-the-cuff topics, I leave our conversation feeling inspired and uplifted.

Not only is she an incredibly talented crafting visionary and a smart businesswoman, she’s a compassionate guiding light for those looking to start their journey.

And now this queen of crafts is set to become a best-selling author with an easy-to-follow guide filled with an abundance of seasonal inspiration.

My glue gun has been ordered and I’m ready to get crafty this Christmas and beyond! sara-davies.com

The pandemic saw the crafting market expand enormously. We had to invest in our buildings and our space. We’ve done so much work at our Newton Aycliffe base

NOV/DEC23

Be Inspired…

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Winter warmers

Bundle up this season with Connolly’s Autumn/ Winter 2023 Collection ‘Down the Pub’ - a uniform of ease and confidence. Think cosy knits, silk shirts, chunky cardigans and tailored coats connollyengland.com

ABOVE Double Breasted Oversized Car Coat £1,800 Brushed Shetland Crew Neck £250 Blanket Wrap Skirt £600 Art Cardigan £1,000 Loose Fit Single Cuff Silk Shirt £650 Relaxed Tapered Cord Trousers £650 Wicket Vest £330 Check Trousers £650 Tan Playing Cards Set £350 TOP RIGHT Donegal Single Breasted Martingale Coat £1,800 Relaxed Tapered Cord Trousers £650 Brushed Shetland Crew Neck £250 Driving Sweater £950 Cord Fronted Cardigan £385 Relaxed Tapered Cord Trousers £650 The Sleeveless Driver £850 Greta Trousers £650 RIGHT Khaki Blouson Jacket £1,250 Blush Classic Silk Trousers £980 Alpaca Oversized Car Coat £2,200 Driving Sweater £950 Khaki Classic Silk Trousers £980

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LP Shirt Jacket £850 Greta Trousers £950 Double Breasted Shearling Short Coat £3,800 The Superluxe crew Neck £1,500 Relaxed Tapered Cord Trousers £650 White Driving Shoes £420

ate l n e p res o o t s 0 6 Over 2 ces a p s g arkin p e e r 0f 10,00 LEAVE O T T N N’T WA YOU WO

Brushed Shetland Crew Neck £250 Silk Single Cuff Fitted Shirt £650 Hand-Knit Gansey Cardigan £3,000 Solid Gold Clyde Blanket £2,500

FASHION FIRST

Unveiling the art of personal style Bella Osterman is a seasoned personal stylist whose passion is to help you discover your unique style and select the perfect wardrobe. Jessica Chipman sits down with the fashionista to discuss the ins and outs of this fast-paced business…

Finding your feet in the world of fashion and personal style can be a daunting experience. Knowing what colours, textures and styles work best for you seems like an overwhelming task. Luckily, there are style saviours like Bella out there who make it their goal to uplift your wardrobe.

Originally from Stockholm, Sweden, Bella studied a fashion and design course in Uppsala, which included a styling module.

It was here that she fell in love with the art of putting outfits together. Much to their enjoyment, Bella began styling her family and friends for fun, before moving on to styling herself, where she thrived on constantly changing her look.

Towards the end of her teenage years, Bella moved to the UK where she landed herself a Christmas temp job as a personal stylist at Debenhams. When the opportunity of a

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full-time contract was offered to her, she jumped at the chance. The job however relocated her to Preston. Whilst falling in love with her new career, she was also falling in love with her now fiancé, Jade, who is from the North East.

After making a long distance relationship work for some time, Bella was given the opportunity to relocate with Debenhams again, to Newcastle.

Things were going great for Bella and her career, until the pandemic hit. It was at this time that she got the dreaded phone call informing her that she’d been made redundant. However, every cloud has a silver lining, especially in Bella’s case, as her redundancy forced her to pursue her dream of becoming a personal stylist. She wasted no time in putting her business plan together, starting with the basics like her website and social media channels. As soon as the doors reopened in the world of retail,

Bella started taking bookings. Fast forward two years and Style by Bella is a fully-fledged personal styling business that is growing in popularity.

“If it wasn’t for the pandemic, I probably wouldn’t have taken the plunge and started out on my own,” she starts.

“I feel like it was a blessing in disguise because it gave me the push I needed to believe in myself.

“I now offer a one-to-one personal styling session where clients can choose from a two, three, or four hour appointment, based on their individual needs. What happens within these sessions varies based on how long we have together, but they all include a full consultation, outfit preparation, body shape and colour analysis, and then my personal styling service.

“I also offer a Wardrobe Detox service, where I go to clients’ houses to review, organise, categorise and help decide what items you should let go of. It’s useful if you have a lot of things at home that you like but aren't sure how to put them together as an outfit.

“I like to take a relaxed, non-judgemental approach with my clients. It's important they feel comfortable around me.”

I asked Bella what she advises her clients do with clothes that they are parting with, especially as platforms like Depop, eBay Preloved and Vinted grow in popularity.

“I sort clothes into three piles: keep, need tailoring or adjusting, and donate.

I volunteer at Smart Works, a fantastic organisation which helps North East women into employment through the power of interview clothing and coaching, and I advise my clients to donate their work-wear to them.

“I actually sold my old wardrobe on Vinted during the pandemic. The high street has become a lot more casual since the pandemic, which I think is nice. In Sweden everybody is quite casual.”

Style by Bella works closely with clients to hand pick a selection of clothing that works specifically for them. I was particularly intrigued to find out how Bella goes about colour matching, and how the personal styling process works.

“I carry out a colour analysis which I use as a guide. This is based on your hair colour, eye colour and skin tone.

“After an initial consultation, where I like to find out as much as I can about my clients, I then have a think about which products I think would work best for them.

“The final stage of the styling process is actually going into shops to purchase clothes. I’ll take my client into different shops, mixing and matching as we go to give them a fully unique look. I don't want them to look like carbon copies of the mannequin.”

Bella’s work revolves around the seasons, as fashion trends are generally tailored to weather, lifestyle, and preferences associated with the time of year. She carries out a seasonal refresh of her own wardrobe twice a year, and avoids shopping in between to avoid blurring the lines between work and pleasure.

When it comes to the inspiration behind Bella's career path, it doesn't come as a surprise to learn she was heavily influenced by the music industry. Fashion and music come hand-in-hand, with the ever-changing trends and seasonal updates.

Watching, admiring and learning from the styling aspect of her favourite music videos growing up inspired Bella to pursue a career in fashion.

“I love music, especially 80s music,” she explains.

“I remember watching music videos when I was younger and falling in love with what I saw. I remember thinking, if I can take some

of their styles and add them to my own, I think I can create something really cool.

“No one else in my family used to be artsy or creative. My mum worked in finance, my dad in food retail, and my siblings in technology and engineering, so I could never bounce ideas off them growing up.”

As her business goes from strength to strength, Bella tells me that turning her hobby and passion into a full-time job has been her biggest accomplishment to date.

She takes great pride in the fact that her clients have chosen her to help them. One of the biggest joys that comes with Bella’s work is that she gets to be creative on a daily basis, and utilise her skills to help others.

As our conversation comes to a close, we start discussing what the future of Style by Bella might look like.

“I would love to have a little style studio or a place where my clients can come to me.

It would be nice to have a base where I can work on designs and have everything in one place.

When Bella isn’t revamping wardrobes and picking out iconic outfits - or more recently, using her styling skills to refurbish her new home - you’ll find her spending time with her fiancé or out for woodland walks with her two dogs.

It was a delight to spend some time speaking to Bella, and I can't help but wonder how she'd restyle my wardrobe.

Taking inspiration from our conversation, I'm already starting to plan my wardrobe detox and winter looks. Roll on party season! stylebybellas.co.uk

Q&A: How often do you go back to Sweden?

Twice a year. I've just bought a house so I haven't had much chance to go back recently. My sister is coming over to see me soon.

What is your favourite item in your wardrobe currently?

At the moment, I love my Dr Martens boots. I put off buying some for ages because I thought they were going to be so painful, but I wish I'd bought them sooner.

Two staples that everyone should have in their winter wardrobe?

A nice, smart, versatile and comfortable coat. And a good pair of boots, of course!

Why did you launch Style by Bella in the UK as opposed to Sweden?

I feel that I can be more creative in the UK due to the diversity of the British high street.

One piece of advice that you would give to anyone who's struggling with their wardrobe or doesn't know what their style is?

Sometimes I struggle with my own style - that's where my Pinterest obsession comes in! I’d start with a few items I like, add them to a Pinterest board, and then let the suggestions inspire me from there.

Your three Luxe things?

My family 80s pop music Sushi

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LUXE LOOKS

TOTEME Rib-knit Wool Fingerless Gloves £138, matchesfashion.com

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI Cable-knit Cashmere-blend Roll-neck Sweater £5,500, matchesfashion.com

MARLENE BIRGER Ciarra Fringed Wool-blend Wrap Skirt £400, harveynichols.com

GET THE LOOK

Cosy kit

GABRIELA HEARST Lyla Chunky-knit Cashmere Poncho £3,410, matchesfashion.com

Cosy season calls for luxe layers and warm tones.

From comfy jumpers, to smart knit dresses, we’re ready, no matter what this winter brings…

ASPINAL OF LONDON The Resort Raffia And Leather Bag £550, johnlewis.com

LK BENNETT Samira Sand Suede Platform Knee-high Boots £529, fenwick.co.uk

UGG Classic Ultra Mini Suede Flatform boots £155, harveynichols.com

LOEWE Anagram-embroidered Cashmere Scarf £425, harveynichols.com

ZIMMERMANN Luminosity Cable-knit Wool Jumper £775, harveynichols.com

VICTORIA BECKHAM VB Body White Stretch-knit Midi Dress £590, harveynichols.com

NOV/DEC23

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LIFE HACKS

SUNSHINE STATE OF MIND

Mastering time management for a stressfree Christmas

Teresa Peters, our Luxe Life and Executive Coach, facilitates workshops and leadership development programmes.

With the festive season fast approaching, she reminds us how to slow down and manage our time effectively.

Christmas is a time for joy, but it can also be a time of hectic schedules, endless to-do lists, and mounting stress. This year, let’s make a commitment to manage our time effectively using timeless strategies that have proven their worth. Recently I ran a time management workshop for the NHS. I explained how we all have the same 24 hours in the day and we can’t manage time because it is set, but we can manage ourselves. In this column, I’d like to share some tools which will enable us to manage ourselves, and not just time.

THE TIMELESS WISDOM OF STEPHEN COVEY Stephen R. Covey, author of ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’, encourages us to think in terms of ‘big rocks’ and ‘small rocks’. Imagine you have a jar and you need to fit in big rocks (important tasks) and small rocks (less important tasks). If you start by filling the jar with small rocks, you won’t have space for the big rocks.

Identify your big rocks List your most important tasks, such as buying gifts, planning events, important work tasks and spending quality time with loved ones. These are your ‘big rocks’.

Schedule your big rocks first Block out time for these essential tasks. Commit to these appointments as you would a work meeting.

Fit the smaller rocks around the big ones Once your big rocks are in place, slot smaller tasks, like decorating or sending out cards, around them.

THE EISENHOWER MATRIX Dwight D. Eisenhower was known for his remarkable ability to prioritise tasks. He developed the Eisenhower Matrix, a simple but effective tool for sorting tasks into four categories: Urgent and important: These tasks are top priority and require immediate attention.

Not urgent but important: These tasks are vital for long-term goals but don’t demand immediate action.

Urgent but not important: These tasks may seem pressing, but they don’t contribute to your goals.

Not urgent and not important: These tasks are distractions that should be minimised.

BRIAN TRACY’S TIME MANAGEMENT RULES Brian Tracy, a renowned self-help author, emphasises several time management rules that can be helpful during the festive season: The ‘Eat That Frog’ principle Tackle your most challenging and least appealing tasks first thing in the morning. This leaves you feeling accomplished and motivated for the rest of the day.

The 80/20 rule This rule suggests that 20% of your efforts will yield 80% of your results. Focus on the most productive 20% of your tasks for the best outcome.

The two-minute rule If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. This small change can lead to significant time savings.

Use technology wisely Use tools like calendars, task management apps and reminders to help you stay organised and on track.

CREATE A TIME MANAGEMENT ROUTINE FOR CHRISTMAS BLISS...

Begin each day by reviewing your schedule, reminding yourself of your ‘big rocks’ and allocating time for them. As you decorate your tree and wrap those gifts, remember that the greatest gift of all is the gift of time well spent.

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Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Glow Glide Face Architect Highlighter - Sunset Glow Charlotte Tilbury is bringing Hollywood glam to every event with her awe-inspiring highlighter. Not only does it define facial features and structure, but it leaves you with a glow that will out-do the star at the top of your tree. The lightweight powder glides effortlessly across your skin whilst carrying the illuminating power of a liquid highlighter. £38, harveynichols.com

Prada Beauty Prada Monochrome Hyper Matte Lipstick - B03 What better way to complete your festive glam than with a standout red lip. This lipstick, with its refillable design, leaves a sophisticated matte finish and promises to leave lips lusciously hydrated - essential for those cold evenings. Lasting up to 12 hours, it contains bifidus extract and jojoba oil to ensure ultimate hydration. Each of the 13 shades in this collection are equally as beautiful as the other, but here at Luxe, we’re loving shade ‘B03’. £37, harrods.com

SUQQU Liquid Luster Eye Liquid Eyeshadow - 02 This is the absolute go-to eyeshadow for your Christmas party vibe. Its dazzling shimmer finish perfectly combines highly-pigmented colour with a sparkle that pops. Its liquid formulation and wand applicator ensures that one simple stroke is enough to cover your entire lid.

If you’re after a more accelerated look, blend the product out with a fluffy brush, sit back, and revel in the long-wear formula. £26, harrods.com

Beauty:update Christmas glam Jessica Chipman picks out your makeup must-haves for the festive party season Dior Dior Show Eyeshadow Nothing says ‘It’s Christmaaas’ like a shimmering eyelid, and no one provides sparkle quite like Dior. This ‘Show’ stopping palette offers a range of captivating, richly pigmented shades that instantly elevate your festive eye makeup game. Known for its velvety texture, these shadows blend effortlessly, ensuring a smooth and flawless application and a myriad of stunning eye looks. £55, fenwick.co.uk

NARS Blush - Torrid This bestseller gives you an authentic ‘I just came in from the cold’ look.

The huge range of buildable shades on offer allows you to choose your favourite kind of tint and the impact it has on your look.

Simply swipe across your cheek, and watch the festive magic happen. We love the shade ‘Torrid’. £30, harveynichols.com

Clinique Even Better™ Pore Defying Primer, 30ml We all know that a flawless base is key to an iconic makeup look. This skincare-powered facial primer is designed to specifically enhance makeup application by providing a surge of hydration whilst removing excess oil, transforming your skin into a totally blank canvas. What we love about Clinique, is that it caters to all skin types from very dry to oily, so no need to search for hours for a product that specifically suits your skin. £30, fenwick.co.uk Estée Lauder Turbo Lash High Powered Volume and Length Mascara Elevate your lash game with a treatment serum that leaves lashes feeling nourished and conditioned whilst appearing visibly stronger, thicker, and fuller. As a mascara with built in serum, it’s the perfect combination for your standout Christmas party vibe. With 12-hour wear that promises not to smudge, flake, or clump, it’s a guaranteed show-stopper. £30, fenwick.co.uk

Laura Mercier Real Flawless Weightless Perfecting Foundation - 30 Shades No one likes to take off their cosy scarf, only to realise its caked in foundation, right? Well, with this Laura Mercier cake-free foundation, you don’t have to worry. It’s lightweight, long-wearing, and carries medium coverage which blurs imperfections and leaves you with a flawless finish. With 30 shades, all promising 12 hours of waterproof and fade-proof wear, it’s a total no-brainer for those, winter days. £38, johnlewis.com

NOV/DEC23

ADVERTORIAL

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In a remarkable development that is set to transform the quality of aesthetics in the North East, The Retreat at Matfen Hall Spa proudly introduces a new level of luxury to its renowned spa through an exclusive partnership with Derma Group.

This extraordinary collaboration not only enhances Matfen Hall’s beauty offerings but also adds a unique proposition that is sure to delight its guests.

Derma Group, the vanguard of innovation in the aesthetic and beauty sector, has brought a new level of opulence to The Retreat.

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training, Matfen Hall has seamlessly integrated into the world of dermaaesthetics, offering clients an unmatched experience.

Elevating Spa Experiences with Derma Group Derma Group will arrive in December at The Retreat with an impressive array of new products and treatments that are poised to revolutionise the world of skin care.

Their commitment to innovation, luxury, and results-driven treatments is perfectly aligned with Matfen Hall’s vision of providing unparalleled spa experiences.

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without the need for extensive surgery, resulting in minimal downtime and a more natural look.

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The journey begins as guests set foot on Matfen Hall’s magnificent country estate, just 30 minutes away from the bustling heart of Newcastle.

The Retreat Experience, designed to be the epitome of luxury, then takes guests on a transformative journey.

The experience becomes one of holistic rejuvenation, where every moment is an ode to pampering and self-care. Here, the sense of calm and escapism guests deserve is not only promised but delivered with an unparalleled level of luxury.

Derma Group’s treatments are results-

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From body sculpting to Micro needling, Derma RadioFrequency, and a revolutionary 14-in-1 facial treatment known as “360 infusion,” guest’s journey with Derma Group promises to be transformative.

One of the most exciting offerings is the Body Sculpt treatment, which uses a combination of techniques, including suction, freezing, and melting, to help clients lose up to four inches as they tighten up their shape.

This revolutionary approach to body contouring is a testament to the innovative spirit of Derma Group. They provide results that not only meet but exceed clients expectations.

With The Retreat’s commitment to excellence, every detail has been attended to, ensuring that your journey towards wellness is steeped in luxury and quality.

The future of skin care has arrived at Matfen Hall, and it’s poised to transform the way people look and feel. Matfen Hall’s collaboration with Derma Group adds a unique dimension to its spa offerings, promising a spa experience like no other.

Welcome to the future of beauty and aesthetics. Welcome to The Retreat at Matfen Hall Spa with Derma Group.

treatments with a focus on micro needling, hydra facials, and body contouring. These treatments, meticulously designed to provide transformative results, serve as a non-invasive alternative to cosmetic surgery.

Derma Group’s commitment to quality and luxury aligns perfectly with the ethos of The Retreat at Matfen Hall Spa. The treatments are ideal for those who seek refined beauty

luxe-magazine.co.uk 35

LUXE LOCKS

It’s that time of year again - we can’t quite believe it! Where has the year gone? With the party season around the corner, it’s essential to not only deck the halls but also you! If you want to make a statement, your hairstyle can be your most powerful accessory. The best party hair combines total sophistication with a little bit of sass, and it really doesn’t take much to change up your look and create something that will make you look like the belle of the ball. Let’s look at five quick and easy hair hacks that will get you party ready…

Sleek Low Ponytail The sleek low ponytail is a timeless classic that never gets old and always looks sophisticated. This look works best on longer lengths, but short hair can be simply slicked back without the pony and look just as striking. Use a fine-toothed comb and some hair gel to create a polished, sleek appearance. To add a festive touch, wrap a strand of hair around the hair tie for a chic finish.

Messy Chignon with Accessories Prep your hair first with a wand, or curl with irons to create a gorgeous wavy texture. Gather your hair into a ponytail on either the left or the right side. Loosely backcomb the ponytail and smooth over the surface.

Continue to pull the ponytail through the band as if to tighten the base – continue as many times as necessary. On the last pull-through, create a loop at the base as you pull through to create a messy bun.

Wrap and pin the remaining end of the ponytail around the base to give texture and shape. To give your look a festive flair, add some cool hairpins or ornamental accessories and you’re good to go!

Romantic Waves If your everyday hair is worn straight, then showing up with gorgeous waves is always going to turn heads.

Whether you have long or short hair, this style can be achieved with a curling iron or waved out with straightening irons. Prep your hair first with volumeboosting products, the results are always better when the hair feels substantially fuller. Plus, the product helps hold the curl in place all night.

The Faux Bob If you want to experiment without chopping your locks, the faux bob is a fantastic choice. Prep your hair by creating loose waves and loosely pull the hair into a low ponytail several inches below your lower hairline.

Holding the ponytail band, roll it up and under toward the hairline and secure it firmly with pins to create the illusion of a shorter bob. Now you’re ready for a stylish soirée and will have everyone talking about your ‘new’ short hair!

Side-swept Glam This look is simple but incredibly effective. Think Hollywood glamour with a deep side part and cascading side-swept waves. Prep your hair by drying it into a low side parting, then curl it into firm waves to allow you to brush out without losing the wave (a smaller wand or tong is recommended for this). Brush out and finish with a spritz of shine spray and some fixing spray to hold the hair in place. This style screams sophistication and you’ll feel a million dollars.

Party perfection From sleek low ponytails to glamorous side-swept waves, these sophisticated styles combined with the right accessories will ensure you’re the life of every party

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Remember, it’s not just about the hairstyle but also how you accessorise it. Choose accessories that match your outfit’s colour or vibe. Whether you’re attending a glitzy black tie do, or going on your work night out, these festive hairdos’ will have you turning heads and spreading Christmas cheer. So, here’s to the party season and your fabulous locks!

Michael Young and Gary Hooker run Hooker & Young, with four salons across the North East. hookerandyoung.co.uk

NOV/DEC23

ADVERTORIAL

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The Harrods Beauty Advent Calendar

Harrods Beauty is coming in strong with some goodies that will surely leave a smile on your face. Besides its sleek design, the calendar comes with 25 boxes - 21 of which are full-sized products. It includes some of the most exciting make-up and skincare products on the market, adding a little touch of glamour to your pampering routine. Think brands such as Charlotte Tilbury, Kylie Cosmetics, Gisou, and many more. £250, harrods.com

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This year’s Dr. Barbara Sturm Advent Calendar has got your skincare needs nailed down, equipping you with the essentials to step into the festivities with a more refined and tailored skincare routine. Starting off with make-up remover, moving on to a wide range of serums and toners, night and day creams, lip balms, body care and haircare goodies, you’ll be heading into party season feeling as good as new! £450, en.drsturm.com

Inspired by seasonal scents, each drawer of the Jo Malone Advent Calendar contains goodies to get you in the mood for Christmas. Think gingerbreadinspired fragrances, punchy colognes, holidayinspired candles and bath and body miniatures.

The best part? Each product is magical on its own, but the best results come from mixing and matching as part of the ritual. £350, harveynichols.com

Sisley Beauty Advent Calendar

For a pop of colour, opt for the Sisley Beauty Advent Calendar. Designed with whimsical collages and embroidery, it will be the perfect gift for you or for a loved one. This is Sisley’s first beauty advent calendar, and they have worked hard to capture what the brand is all about.

Positivity, inspiration and a feel-good mood are just some of the things you will experience upon opening each box. Expect goodies from Sisley’s skincare, make-up, fragrance and haircare to make each day one to remember. £595, sisley-paris.com

NOV/DEC23

Christmas at Danu Studios is a quintessential British affair that blends festive cheer with the ultimate pampering experience. Nestled in the heart of Hoults Yard, Danu Studios offers a range of exquisite treatments, perfect for preparing for the party season in style.

For those seeking a radiant glow, the skin boosters are a must-try. They work wonders in rejuvenating your skin, leaving you with a refreshed and youthful complexion. It’s the ideal solution to get that sought-after red carpet look. And speaking of the red carpet, the ‘Million Dollar Miracle Mask’ and the ‘Guinot Lift Express’ are the go-to facials for those who want to shine at holiday events.

Eyes are the windows to the soul, and Danu Studios offers treatments that will make them truly captivating. The ‘LVL Lash Lift’ and lash extensions by Jess are the secrets to achieving luscious, long lashes that are bound to turn heads at any party.

If you’re looking for an all-in-one destination for these lovely treatments, Danu is your answer. Their expert professionals ensure that you’re party-ready and feeling fabulous.

This Christmas, treat yourself to the beauty experience of a lifetime at Danu Studios. Be the star of the season and light up the festivities with your newfound radiance. It’s the ultimate way to indulge in the festive spirit with a touch of elegance. Gift vouchers are also available. These can be purchased either online electronically or posted out to the recipient or client. info@danustudios.uk danustudios.uk Danu Studios, Unit 38, The Clock Tower, Hoults Yard, Newcastle, NE6 1AB

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FEELING GOOD

Beautiful mind Salt + Steam is a North Yorkshire based skincare company with a beautiful range of bath salts, facial steams and clay masks. Caroline Dask chats to Lily Hartley about all things wellness and business...

From a very young age, I was told that it’s never too late to start chasing your dreams.

However, often what happens is that life gets in the way. Duties, responsibilities and routines act as blockers for what could have been. Stuck in a never-ending cycle, not able - or maybe, not willing - to break out, we start to come up with excuses.

Pushing aside these excuses and finding a gap in her never-ending routine, Lily Hartley, who is originally from the small village of Appleton-le-Moors, took a brave step towards her future as the founder of Salt + Steam.

Launched in 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, her company is now a blossoming business creating all-natural bath salts, facial steams, masks and other goodies, that encourage us to break out of the routine and spend a few moments of the day focusing on ourselves.

“Before Salt + Steam, I was actually studying photojournalism at Staffordshire University,” Lily beings.

“I then worked as a freelance photographer for 10 years,” she adds.

“I’ve also worked as a managing director for an e-commerce company, and it wasn’t until I got furloughed that I decided to start my own business. The idea of working for myself has always been brewing in the back of my head. Originally, I saw myself as a photographer, chasing down tribes in the rainforest and living a bit of a wild and nomadic lifestyle,” Lily laughs.

“Then later in life, I discovered I’m quite a homebody, and I treasure moments when I can spend time with my family. Yet I’ve

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always wanted that freedom that comes with having your own little empire, so I just thought, ‘It’s now, or never!’.”

Being an entrepreneur is so much more than having an idea. What might be the most important step in building a successful business, is to find a gap in the market. To offer a product that solves a problem. Lily has been able to do just that, and maybe this is where her success lies.

“I’ve always been a big fan of skincare bath products,” she starts.

“So probably around six or seven years ago I started to try and make sure that all the products I used were cruelty-free and eco-friendly. What I soon noticed is that it was difficult to find products with great credentials at an affordable price point.

Naturally, I thought, if I was struggling to find them, surely other people were too.

“After doing a lot of research, I quickly found out that this side of business is more complicated than I first thought. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes to make sure that everything is done legally and properly.”

With skincare, finding the right product can take a lot of time, especially if you have skin complications, as many people do. After spending time finding something that works, it can be disappointing to find out that the product is still tested on animals, for example. When I share this frustration with Lily, she sympathises and admits she has

been in a similar situation quite a few times.

“When I was doing my research, I found that there were so many products that were still covered in plastic, or containing ingredients that were harsh on the environment. I knew there must be a better way to do this,” she says.

“At Salt + Steam we aim to be as eco-friendly as possible, and this is why all of our packaging is plastic-free, our refill bags are completely compostable, our ingredients are locally and sustainably sourced as well as vegan, and I can proudly say we are cruelty-free.

“However, to get to that level, I had to do a lot of research, because another problem with being eco-friendly is that it can be really expensive to find these alternatives to plastic. But we work hard to ensure that our products can offer quality ingredients for prices that don’t bite,” Lily explains.

What started with just three core products bath salts, body scrubs and facial steams, has now been extended to clay masks, bath oils and gift sets, making sure there is something for everyone. Inclusivity plays a big part in Lily’s product development.

“We wanted to create products that everyone could enjoy. I, myself, prefer floral and fruity scents, but I know that some of our customers enjoy herbal fragrances, so it was important to have a wide range of scents, so that everyone could have a little spa

moment at home.

“Because all of our products are natural, they’re suitable for those with sensitive skin. We took it a step further and developed the Skin Saviour clay face mask, which only has three ingredients; our face steams, especially the ones with lavender and rose, work wonders to calm and soothe the skin, and our Mama Time bath oil which is suitable for pregnancy,” Lily adds.

With customers' needs at the forefront, Salt + Steam has been flourishing ever since its launch. So, it comes as no surprise, when Lily mentions that they have started selling their products in the US, a move that is still a ‘pinch-me’ moment for her and her team.

“We had a lot of success with our facial steams, and I think the reason is that our product allows people to take a step back and recharge, even if it is just for 10 minutes.

It’s something that unites everyone; we’re all busy, we’re all running to get things done, but at the same time, we’re all in need of a moment for ourselves,” Lily smiles.

Running a business is no doubt timeconsuming, but even with a one-year-old baby and a wedding on the way, Lily highlights the importance of downtime.

“For me, wellness and self-care comes in the form of looking after my skin, going on hikes, being outdoors, exercising, eating well - and treating myself to a lot of cake, for good measure!” she laughs.

“I think self-care comes in so many different forms, but it all comes down to what makes you feel good, what feeds your mind and soul.

“People underestimate the power of downtime and self-care. I think once you take time to look after yourself, you become your best self, which for me means more ideas, better performance and increased productivity.

“I’m already brimming with ideas to take Salt + Steam to the next level, and I would absolutely love to have a shop. I want to give people the experience of walking into

a Salt + Steam store, with lovely scents surrounding them. A place where they can feel and look at the products before purchasing them. I have it all set out in my mind,” says Lily with excitement.

I’m fascinated by how fast her company is growing and her involvement in everything from doing her own photography to making the products. It seems as though Lily has unlocked a rather secret practice of successfully balancing self-care with running a business, something that makes sense to me in theory, yet seems hard to achieve in real life.

My curiosity gets the better of me and I ask: “How do you do it all?”

She laughs and says: “Coffee. A lot of coffee!” saltandsteam.co.uk

NOV/DEC23

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SWEET LIFE

A moment of Gozo

Gozo in Colombia means joy. With Christmas just around the corner, Caroline Dask caught up with with GOZO Chocolate owners Cathy and Matt about sweet treats, sustainable practices and mixing family and business…

Some of us (myself included) seek comfort in chocolate throughout the year but particularly at Christmas time. Chocolate is a big part of the festive season. One does not go without the other. At Luxe HQ, Christmas has come a little early as we chat to the brains behind GOZO. Responsible for chocolate pairings truly made in heaven, it comes as no surprise that the business owners complement each other just as well. Matt and Cathy Stephenson are a husband and wife duo, who early on never thought life would take them on a path to the confectionery business, but fate has a funny way of placing you right where you belong.

“When I was younger, I always dreamed of being a footballer. Then, an MD because

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my dad was an MD and he used to travel all over the world and bring me lots of toys back. So, naturally, I thought this is what MDs did! They would travel all over the world buying toys. What could be better than that?” Matt laughs.

“However, in a way, I’ve always known I wanted to be my own boss,” he adds.

Cathy, on the other hand, dreamed of becoming a doctor and helping people, and although her career took a turn in another direction in marketing, she’s always had a love for science, nature and animals.

The story of how GOZO Chocolate came to life stems from something Matt heard in his childhood.

“I was told that if you can pick your path, pick it in food because everyone needs to eat,” he says.

And it’s true.

Before there was GOZO Chocolate, there was, and still is, Choc Nibbles. You might have seen them in the shops and even tried the irresistible combination of chocolate, caramel, and biscuit, packed up in an eye-catching design. Started in 2007 by Matt, and later in 2014 joined by Cathy, this is what gave them the knowledge and experience in the confectionery industry, all leading up to the more recent launch of GOZO Chocolate in the North East.

“The idea for GOZO Chocolate was planted around six years ago when, after the success of Choc Nibbles, we just wanted to diversify, create new markets, new sectors and new customers,” Cathy shares.

“We invested in some new machinery and equipment to allow us to create different chocolate offerings that would make us stand out.

“This was during the pandemic, when we invested a lot of our time developing the brand behind GOZO Chocolate. We always thought that chocolate should be a happy moment. A moment that allows you to sit back, savour and just really enjoy it.

“We wanted to create a brand that was hopeful, optimistic and give people a moment of happiness during times of uncertainty,” Cathy adds.

“In the current market of confectionery, what we tend to see is that chocolate bars are smaller, thinner, and when it comes to add-ons, you usually get nibbles instead

of whole nuts or real fruit,” says Cathy.

“We wanted to make sure that when you buy GOZO, you get an honest, generous bar of chocolate that’s full of flavour. We opted for a 58% cocoa content for our dark chocolate bars which we found was a real sweet spot; it’s not bitter or a challenge to eat.

“Our cocoa beans are sourced solely from Colombia; these origins are reflected in GOZO’s unique flavour profile, nurtured by the climate, the composition of the soil in the region it’s grown in and how the farmer works the land and his crop.”

Columbia seems to be a recurring theme during our chat, and a quick look at GOZO’s website brings up a name: Luker Chocolate.

“Do you know the clip from Pretty Woman, where Julia Roberts walks into the shop and they won’t serve her, then she goes away, comes back and says: ‘big mistake’?,” Matt asks and I feel myself nodding before he can finish the sentence.

“Well, this partnership was something like that! I’ve known Luker Chocolate for years and I kept asking if I could buy their chocolate, and they kept saying I wasn’t ready. It wasn’t them being arrogant, it’s just that we didn’t have the right products and I wasn’t ready for what Luker represents.

“I saw them every year at trade fairs and continued to ask - then one day, they just said: ‘right, you’re ready’, and that was it,” Matt says.

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SWEET LIFE Luker Chocolate has achieved the coveted Fine de Aroma Classification with flavour profiles matched by only 8% of the world’s cocoa growers who can claim their cocoa tastes this good.

Luker is a family-owned business. Their chocolate is grown in Colombia by farmers, not farms. Their values of sustainability, honesty and transparency are what set them apart from everyone else. Naturally, to be in partnership with Luker is a privilege and a true achievement, as shared values are vital for working together.

“Because Luker is so well known for their ethical practices, and for supporting small farmers to ensure they receive a fair price and education to deliver sustainable practices, that makes our sustainability message very clear and easy to deliver without the need for additional badges and stickers,” Matt explains.

“We actually got to visit Luker Chocolate in Colombia last year and saw first-hand how they operate as a business within cocoa, how in-house experts support small farmers in different aspects of their practices and we just knew we made the right decision partnering with them,” Cathy adds.

“We also got to visit some of the farms in really remote areas of Colombia. The farms tend to be smallholdings, so they will have some cattle but it’s not mass produced.

“As we were sitting with some Luker representatives, they were educating farmers on how to get the best yields from their crop, how to best nurture their cocoa trees, always in the context of the farm’s locality and specific biodiversity challenges faced. So, they help farmers to get the most out of their product, whilst protecting their environment and communities, adding tangible value at origin. It’s just amazing

to see their strong ties with farmers and the cocoa-growing community as a whole,” Cathy explains.

GOZO invests directly in projects run by Luker Chocolate. ‘The Chocolate Dream’ works towards a goal of reforming the chocolate value chain from its origin through improving farmer income and beyond. GOZO sponsors a project called Micro Basins and helps to protect water sources and provide safe drinking water in rural Limoncito, Colombia, which over time has been contaminated through pollution and waste.

Every bar of GOZO Chocolate purchased supports this project.

“We want people to buy GOZO because it tastes good. We want people to recognise it as premium, luxury chocolate at an affordable price - and then later on, if they find out that ‘by the way, as a company we try to do the right thing’, that’s great,” says Matt.

With her background in marketing, Cathy drives the message behind the brand, while Matt takes care of the day-to-day business operations. When asked why they don’t focus on their ethical practices as a marketing tool, Cathy is more than happy to explain: “Chocolate shouldn’t be a guilt buy. It should be an overall happy experience. Even before the GOZO brand was established, Matt and I, as business owners thought that was the right thing to do, to be involved in such a wonderful programme supporting Luker, which really does make a difference to rural communities and the farmers.”

Just a few weeks ago, GOZO hit a huge milestone. Their products have landed on the shelves in Fenwick and with the news still fresh, it’s a pinch-me moment for both

Cathy and Matt.

With success that seems to be growing daily, I’m curious about the old saying ‘don’t mix family and business’.

“I find it dead easy,” Matt jumps in.

“Well, when your partner is actually your boss…” Cathy laughs.

“You said this interview is recorded, right?

Would you mind sending me that part

where Cathy says I’m her boss? I’ll make that my ringtone!,” Matt laughs.

As they go on to share how they’ve created a true partnership and how they’ll ride the wave of highs and lows together, their business, just like them and their chocolate, is a perfect match. gozochocolate.com

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FINE FEAST

Luxe Supper Club

The Luxe team and an exclusive guest list indulge in a spectacular sevencourse tasting menu at our winter Supper Club hosted at Hilton Newcastle Gateshead

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We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again, nothing brings a group of people together like good food, great conversation and even better company.

Indulging in the art of fine dining, Nicole Wood and Debi Coldwell from Luxe recently played host to a captivating and elegant evening at the distinguished Hilton Newcastle Gateshead. The occasion, our celebrated Luxe Supper Club, brought together an exclusive gathering of esteemed clients and business aficionados, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening that seamlessly combined an exceptional foodie experience with stimulating conversations.

Amidst the sophisticated atmosphere of

the private dining room, adorned with the soft glow of candlelight and captivating views of the River Tyne, the evening began with effervescent conversations and a toast of welcome drinks, paving the way for an extraordinary gastronomic journey that awaited our discerning palates. The talented chefs at Hilton, artisans of flavour and finesse, meticulously orchestrated a seven-course tasting menu that transcended mere sustenance, embracing the very essence of culinary artistry.

The soirée begins with the first course, a symphony of flavours in the form of celeriac and truffle soup with a delicate sourdough shard, a harmonious balance of earthy undertones and subtle textures that set the stage for the sensory feast to come. The

NOV/DEC23

FINE FEAST succulent scallops, delicately perched atop a bed of cauliflower and watercress, provided a refreshing interlude, enticing the senses with their delicate sea-kissed essence and verdant undertones. Perfectly cooked, each bite was a pleasure leaving us craving for more.

The evening progressed with the tender lamb, perfectly accompanied by a velvety mash with a crisped top, carrots and pea puree. The lamb is the perfect pull-apart consistency one desires from this delicate meat. This dish is met with triumph across the whole dinner table. The savoury flavours of the crab arancini, enhanced with sage, offering a delightful contrast is up next. A crisp exterior leads to a delectably creamy centre, leaving a lingering impression of satisfaction and refinement. Making its way to the table next is a sumptuous beef fillet.

Exquisitely paired with anna potatoes and a medley of wild mushrooms, every bite is a testimony to the meticulous attention to detail and the celebration of premium ingredients used. A rich delight that will satisfy any foodie.

A sweetness begins to creep in with the sixth dish. The Yorkshire blue, juxtaposed with the crimson hues of red chicory and the tangy essence of pickled pear, encapsulates a symphony of contrasting flavours, harmoniously merging into a crescendo of taste sensations. The finale of this mouthwatering journey is the chocolate and coffee, raspberry, toffee and passionfruit. Think a fusion of luscious, velvety chocolate intertwined with the tangy brightness of raspberry, the rich caramelised

essence of toffee, and the exotic allure of passionfruit. Simply delicious.

A feast for the eyes and the taste buds, every dish we have had the luxury of indulging in is an absolute taste sensation. The chefs here have gone above and beyond to ensure an exquisite dining experience that will satisfy everyone from the fussiest of eaters to the esteemed critiques of the foodie world. Gourmet delights aside, every member of staff bringing our culinary dreams to life is a credit to Hilton Newcastle Gateshead. Their expert knowledge and friendly demeanour goes a long way amongst guests.

Each and every guest around the dinner table is a pleasure and a joy to be around.

Amidst each mouthful of our exquisite feast and equally delicious wine pairings, we delve into deep discussions about business strategies, share personal experiences, and exchange anecdotes that lead to moments of hearty laughter. A room filled with a sense of camaraderie, where professional insights seamlessly blended with lighthearted humour, creating an atmosphere that was both intellectually stimulating and genuinely enjoyable.

The whole Luxe team would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful Director of Sales, Lynn Proud, and Commercial Director, Olivia Macgill, at Hilton Newcastle Gateshead for pulling together a sensational evening. Deliciously divine food and wines, exceptional company and a brilliant location… what more could one want from a winter dinner party? hilton.com

Scan the QR code to see the highlights of our wonderful evening at the Luxe Supper Club

A word from the guests…

“The evening was an unexpected treat for the senses! I love finding hidden gems in the city where I live and this ticked all the boxes. I had no idea the Hilton did private dining and to such an incredibly high standard. There were hidden gems sitting around the table too - it’s always a pleasure to be in the company of such accomplished individuals.”

Nicola Crowther, Crowther Mediation

“Luxe Magazine did it again! The team has an amazing knack for showcasing the best of the region, bringing inspiring people together and facilitating great conversation and networks. Many thanks to the team at Hilton for a fabulous evening.”

Helen Cadzow, Cadzow Estates

“It was a great night chatting with some lovely people, paired with a taster menu that was simply brilliant.

Couldn’t ask for anything better!”

Steve Colman, Smooth Radio North East

NOV/DEC23

“A breathtaking view from a fabulous venue. Exquisite food and superb wine. Most of all, outstanding dining companions. There aren’t enough superlatives to describe the evening, other than, simply, Luxe!”

Susan Beck, Royal Grammar School

“A great event organised by Luxe Magazine and hosted by the team at Hilton. The dining from the Hilton was first class, coupled with great company. Chatting to guests from a variety of backgrounds, allowed for a thoroughly enjoyable evening.”

Jonathan Leonard, Handlesbanken

luxe-magazine.co.uk 43

EATING OUT

A taste of rebellion

Located on the lower floor of a typical Tyneside house, Rebel in Heaton is a true hidden gem when it comes to Newcastle’s fine dining scene. David Bootle was invited to try their delights…

Heaton is firmly establishing itself as a place where venues dedicated to food lovers really have an opportunity to thrive.

Set just off the beaten track on Heaton Park Road, there is a culinary gem that’s been making waves with its unique approach to fine dining. I had the pleasure of visiting Rebel one Thursday evening in October, to sample their 10-course taster menu and wine flight.

Lindsay Rushton, head chef and owner of Rebel, opened the restaurant in April 2022 - along with fellow directors Rosie Oswin, the restaurant manager and sommelier, and Mike Reid, the sous chef.

Since then, the Rebel brand has grown in recognition, gaining a loyal following; and not just from the hip Ouseburn and Heaton communities, but further afield too. This is a place that is worth a journey to dine at.

Rosie explained the decision to be based in Heaton, somewhere that was less congested than the city - that felt more relaxed and chilled than Newcastle centre. There is a sense of anticipation attached to Heaton; a place on the cusp of something exciting.

Considerable investment in infrastructure is planned over the coming years. As the environs of Newcastle creep outwards slowly, a neighbourhood in the east end is perfectly poised to benefit from this.

Chef-owner Lindsay Rushton, having honed his skills at establishments such as House of Tides and Jesmond Dene House, has embarked on a new culinary adventure with Rebel. The restaurant (with 22 covers) is already garnering attention for its devotion to showcasing local and sustainable ingredients.

Although named after Lindsay’s boyhood dog, Rebel, this intimate gastronomic gem displayed for me lots of ‘little acts of rebellion’, suggesting the name perhaps had more meaning than a much-loved childhood pet.

Rebel is all about being different and unique; challenging the status quo. There is an underlying mission… a cause. This restaurant is passionate about being environmentally conscious, extending from provenance and how ingredients are sourced, right through to the suppliers they carefully select, who have strong ethical values themselves.

My partner and I settled into our seats.

Artwork adorns the walls, painted by Lindsay’s mother - an award-winning

professional artist. The striking North Sea art, plus other abstract landscape paintings, add to this strong environmental theme.

Tree-trunk tables complement the rustic feel. The interior is pleasingly minimal… and very welcoming.

On arrival, the sounds are distinctly ‘80s (Soft Cell mixes I recall). Any restaurant playing music of my youth gets my vote, but it is so uncommon these days. The music and vibe cleverly changes throughout the evening, with a real eclectic mix of genres and eras. The scene was set. We looked at the taster menu. ​ This 10-course taster won't necessarily be on the menu every night though - based on Lindsay’s nod to locality and using seasonal produce, when the ingredients are at their finest.

We started with some snacks which were full of flavour - a crispy pie-tee with a creamy centre and a touch of caviar adding a salty sea taste. The perfect start.

Our cocktails were out of this world and also set a tone for the evening. I love an Old Fashioned, but this one had a twist with an infused mushroom... and a kick! My partner was impressed with her Kir Royale, with cassis made in-house.

We were also offered a refreshing, sparkling white. Rosie knew plenty about the background to the drinks, offering a nice balance of information - not too much or little. Like the drinks themselves, her knowledge whetted the appetite. The sparkling white we discovered is from Sussex and an Oxney organic English one.

Next, the lobster offered a subtle sweet flavour, with great texture. The courses seemed to build an overall impression, course by course. And the drinks added to the taste journey. An aromatic English white (The Davenport Horsmonden Dry) had a wonderful floral complement to the lobster.

Continuing the fish theme, the halibut was light and tasty - a succulent piece of fish in a wonderfully sweet broccoli emulsion. This was followed by a sharp, zesty Leeds white from the vineyards of L​ eventhorpe.

We felt like we were on a virtual wine tour of England's vineyards throughout the evening.

Then came ‘hen of the woods’. This was possibly both of our favourite (but a hard call). A wild mushroom in a mushroom emulsion with intense flavours and meaty texture. The bread was a perfect crusty accompaniment to the delicious juicy sauce.

Then came the Chardonnay. I’m not typically a Chardonnay lover, but this English white

(from Oxford) had a subtle buttery flavour and followed the ‘hen of the woods’ beautifully.

The pork fillet sourced from Block and Bottle accompanied by wild garlic kimchi had a richness of taste and a crusty sweet surface.

The following drink was a wonderful match.

The Pinot Noir hailed from Crows Lane Estate, Essex situated on the coastal peninsula of Crouch Valley. Again it was part of the whole experience to hear both about where and why the drinks were sourced, adding to the whole experience.

Next the ‘whey and truffle’ was rich in flavour. Whey, the by-product of manufacturing cheese, provided such a textured taste and again played to the whole ethos of minimising waste. The dish had a decidedly decadent finishing touch a honey truffle shaved at the table.

The chocolate and cherry was a perfect dessert, offering depth and richness of flavour. Still in store was a wonderful sake from London. Rosie explained how the couple who make it had travelled extensively to Japan but wanted to create their own

version, keeping its essence but altering the after-flavour. By using ripe English plums instead of the traditional ‘Japanese sake’ un-ripe plum recipe, they created a different flavour: less striking and more subtle.

Every drink built on the preceding course.

As we savoured each course, so aesthetically displayed too on individually crafted bowls or serving stones, we couldn't help but appreciate the dedication and passion that Lindsay and his team have poured into Rebel.

Lindsay’s dream of owning his own restaurant has clearly paid off. After finishing, he came over to say hello, as he does most evenings with guests. At 6ft 7 inches you have to look up to talk to Lindsay - even at 6ft myself. But (however trite this sounds) I felt myself looking up to this talented professional (roughly half my age) in a different way too. Lindsay has grafted extremely hard to pursue his dream and create something exceptional with a dedicated team alongside him. They are all to be truly commended. restaurantrebel.co.uk

This restaurant is passionate about being environmentally conscious, extending from provenance and how ingredients are sourced, right through to the suppliers they carefully select 44 luxe-magazine.co.uk

NOV/DEC23

HOME COMFORTS

FOOD FIRST

with chef Chris Baber Unpacking the summer and heading home for Christmas…

MY WORLD >> I recently got back from a trip to America.

I spent a week in LA and another in Carmel Valley. I had a few work events with HexClad which were so much fun, but then I got to spend a lot of time exploring the rural areas, wine tasting, indulging in the foodie scene and taking inspiration from the places I visited. One thing I loved was the taco trucks. They’re a huge deal around here, simply parking on the streets. I tried their food for the first time - it’s remarkably affordable yet of exceptional quality, absolutely delicious. I also had the opportunity to be in the kitchen alongside Wolfgang Puck, a hugely famous chef in Beverly Hills and that was a lot of fun!

My friend’s garden in Carmel Valley is sensational and is packed with fresh seasonal produce. We spent a lot of time picking the freshly grown ingredients and making homemade pizzas. It was a really great, wholesome experience. But Christmas is coming up and for me, that means heading back home to the North East.

I can’t wait to get back, spend some time with my family and friends, go out on long countryside walks, head down by the coast and explore some of the new restaurants on the foodie scene. Christmas is about being together with my family. I always help with the cooking and a Christmas dinner is one of my favourite meals to cook, a full turkey with all the trimmings, bringing everyone together around the table. And afterwards?

I always make a traditional Christmas pudding with custard. Nothing beats it.

FOODIE HAPPENINGS >> The summer months are always packed

with foodie festivals and exciting events.

I recently got back from a weekend in the Cotswolds with HexClad, there were lots of great chefs and mind-blowing pop-up dinners, it was incredible to be a part of.

It’s always great having like-minded people, who love food and hospitality, in one place.

I also had the pleasure of creating a menu for the Hackett clothing event in London, which was great fun. I’ve also been out of my comfort zone recently and caught some winter sun at a place called Juicy Oasis in Portugal, which is run by Jason Vale, who is a friend of mine, but he was sort of a pioneer of juicing in the UK. It’s a place for all things nutrition, health, wellness and fitness. Then, something super exciting coming up is the BBC Good Food Show in Birmingham. It’s been going for 30 years now and is still one of the biggest food festivals with people travelling from all over to attend. There are a lot of big names like The Hairy Bikers, Michel Roux, James Martin, and I’m excited to be a part of it. It’s always one of my favourite events of the year.

INSPIRED BY THE SEASONS >> Think hearty dishes at this time of year.

Things like your carrots, potatoes, parsnips and sprouts. Sprouts for me are underrated.

Everyone buys them for about two weeks before Christmas, but they’re actually in season for quite a long time. As soon as you start seeing them, start buying them.

You don’t just need to boil them with chestnuts and bacon for your Christmas dinner, as delicious as that is, you can stir fry them, roast them in the oven with olive oil, mix them together with miso, honey and sesame seeds to create sticky miso sprouts. There’s so much you can do with this versatile veggie.

ASK CHRIS >>

If you’ve got any questions you want to ask Chris, please get in touch via his Instagram page. Chris will select a question and answer it in the next column. #AskChris Q: What’s your go-to leftover turkey recipe?

A: Something a little bit different I like to do is Turkey Bao Buns. Buy your bao buns from the supermarket and pop them in the microwave. Then, as your leftover turkey becomes a little dry, get a pan nice and hot, add in a little oil followed by the turkey and a little five spice. Fry it until it becomes nice and crispy, think of a crispy duck consistency. Then layer up your bun with sliced cucumber, spring onions, load in the turkey and drizzle with hoisin, chilli or whatever sauce you like. A light and fragrant alternative after an indulgent Christmas.

“HexClad makes cooking effortless and enjoyable, achieving amazing results time after time. The sheer versatility of a HexClad makes them the only pans I couldn’t live without. They are built to last with a lifetime guarantee and get better with age.

They are by far the best investment you can make for your kitchen at home. There’s no other pan that will give you the same results. It’s time to get Hexy! A pan for the modern age.” - Chris Baber Find out more at: hexclad.co.uk

NOV/DEC23

TRY THIS >>

Creamy Pork and Asparagus Pasta SERVES 2 Ingredients 300g penne pasta 3 x HECK! 97% sausages 2 cloves garlic finely sliced 1/2 tsp chilli flakes 300g asparagus cut into 2 cm pieces 1 tbsp mascarpone cheese 75g parmesan grated Zest 1/2 lemon Handful rocket Method Cook the pasta according to packet instructions in salted water, saving one mug of cooking water.

Meanwhile, remove the sausage from its skin and break into small pieces.

Heat a large frying pan and add 2 tbsp olive oil then add the sausages. Fry for 3-5 minutes until golden. Add the garlic and chilli and cook for another minute.

Add the asparagus, cook for 2 minutes then add the mascarpone with half of the parmesan, lemon zest and 6 tbsp of the pasta water. Toss together until you have a silky-smooth sauce.

Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss together.

Transfer to a serving dish, top with more parmesans and a handful of rocket. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.

Serve and enjoy!

luxe-magazine.co.uk 45

NEW ARRIVALS

Life on the farm

Simon and Karen Phillips update us on the latest geese happenings from the fabulous Linnels Farm this winter…

For those who read the last issue, I have managed to get the Sebastopol geese.

Five of them, in fact, so now we have nine and five geese, as they haven’t really integrated yet into a lovely bunch. It’s a bit like when you move house, the curtains twitch and you get a lovely welcome, but it takes a few years to be a local.

I was once told you’re local when they stop referring to you by: “Oh you live in the ‘Charlton’s’ house”, and replying no it’s actually my house, just prolongs the process. Well, the new geese haven’t quite been accepted by the resident nine, no fighting but not really deemed to be ‘local’ yet.

However, they look amazing. Slightly weird, but amazing. I got them from Cumbria and when I called and said I’ll be over to collect with some boxes, the woman on the phone told me not to worry, as they’ve got plenty.

Anyway, we got them into the pieces of cardboard that were once boxes and they were all quiet, for a while. Eventually, one got out and whilst I pulled into a layby to assess a plan of action, I decided a loose goose in a hatchback would be a tough catch, so proceeded on my way with the music turned up. I mentioned the Good Life in an earlier article, this was a definite Tom moment with Barbara laughing her socks off when I showed the photo. Anyway, once home, they were all happy.

Geese are great. They are often seen as

symbolising traits such as loyalty, teamwork and protection - and they truly do; geese mate for life, the teamwork in flight is amazing, and flying in their ‘v’ formation helps to conserve energy, unless you’re at the front! When the bird in the front gets tired, other birds from behind replace them.

Amazingly this extends their flying range by 70% compared to when each bird flies alone. You can also occasionally hear them honk to encourage those in front to maintain speed.

Geese are super protective of each other, particularly during nesting, but I don’t find them aggressive. Sure they’ll hiss at you when they are on their nest, but that’s about it.

The Sebastopol geese can’t fly. They are a bit of a showy goose really, ideal for a wedding with their fancy fluffy feathers like a ballerina. Speaking of weddings, I did think about sharing some images of the wrinkly tin sheds which will host our daughter’s wedding, but they are now looking like a mess - you know when you dig the footings for a house and the mud goes everywhere and what was lovely green becomes like the Somme - well, the sheds look a bit worse after my initial intervention.

As we approach Christmas, I just want to be clear that we won’t be eating any of our geese; but I was reminded that the goose is the most traditional of Christmas poultry, but if tradition is what passes from generation to generation, then goose has really lost out to the turkey. I read that in Britain we now eat 10 million turkeys every

Christmas compared to 250,000 geese.

Good news if you’re a goose. The goose was the common choice at Christmas, but a clever marketing campaign by Charles Dickens, who clearly was a writer and turkey breeder, changed this. In A Christmas Carol, the turkey farmer associates goose with poverty, and he has Scrooge bring the Cratchits a piece of luxury by bringing them a turkey for Christmas. Clearly, a masterful marketing play which resulted in goose being downgraded and turkey taking centre stage.

UPCOMING COURSES @LINNELS FARM MAKE THIS A STRESS-FREE CHRISTMAS! >> 10 NOVEMBER

On this course you’ll get a head start on Christmas: boozy mincemeat made, melt in the mouth mince pies nestled in the freezer, and a sneaky selection of canapés and desserts ready to whip out for those impromptu drinks parties. We’ll touch on those old chestnuts: what to do with leftovers and how to woo your vegetarian guests with something other than risotto.

FESTIVE CANDLE MAKING >> 16 NOVEMBER

Caroline will guide you through an informative practical course on hand pouring soy wax candles and beeswax melts. You will leave with knowledge and tips on making soy wax candles and also melts, and get the opportunity to choose different fragrances and containers for your hand poured products to take away.

XMAS WREATH MAKING >> 24 NOVEMBER

Arrive for morning coffee and cakes followed by a wander to gather natural materials for the wreath.

Get started on your masterpiece before a welcome break for a relaxing and indulgent lunch - elasticated waistbands start here! Complete your wreath in the afternoon ready

46 luxe-magazine.co.uk

The Sebastopol geese and their friends, the Emden geese, are very easy guests.

They really do look after themselves and each other. They don’t need any grain, just pasture and water. I do give them some grain but more as a means of keeping them close and familiar with people as they waddle and race to where I put the grain.

As I have mentioned feeding grain to our geese, I am compelled to raise the production of foie gras, which I find quite disturbing. I am a meat eater but am disturbed by such inhumane acts as the production of foie gras, which requires pipes shoved down the throat of geese and ducks three times a day to pump up to four pounds of grain and fat into their stomachs, their livers becoming diseased and swell up to 10 times their normal size. That fatty liver is foie gras. Although it is banned in the UK, this can still be bought as an imported food product, feeding into this unacceptable practice.

Back to caring for your geese and their shelter: we have an animal ark that the geese use. Sebastopol geese can feel the cold more than normal geese, particularly during wet and cold weather. Unlike other geese, their loose feathers don’t provide as much warmth, nor do they repel water as well.

Karen will often say she doesn’t want any in the house. A bit unfair as dogs, goats, sheep, ducks and chickens have all featured here, mostly with success.

However, chickens scratching up bulbs wasn’t appreciated by Karen, but geese are easy. Let’s just hope Karen doesn’t read this article.

to take home and proudly display on your door for all to see.

CHRISTMAS CALLIGRAPHY WITH LAVELLE LETTERING >> 5 DECEMBER

Join Abbi from Lavelle Lettering for a festive, fun filled workshop where you’ll learn the basic calligraphy skills to create your own Christmas cards, decorations and gift wrap.

FESTIVE BAKING >> 6 DECEMBER

Join us for a day of festive bakes with not a Christmas Cake in sight!

Mouth-watering Danish Christmas Kringle; crisp Finnish Sugar Cookies that will last for weeks in a tin, and other unheard of delights to make this Christmas one to remember.

AN AFTERNOON OF ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING >> 7 DECEMBER We believe gifts should follow the William Morris mantra: ‘Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be beautiful or useful.’ Expect lots of ideas for decorating the house and table for the festive season plus quirky stocking fillers.

For further details and to book visit linnelsfarm.com

NOV/DEC23

CELEBRATE IN STYLE

A festive feast Christmas is a time for delicious food, flowing drinks and great company. Here’s a few places across the North East that have more than just festive spirit on the menu...

Rabbit Hole

The Rabbit Hole in Durham has just completed a stylish re-vamp and has expanded its offering with an enhanced Cantonese Fusion menu, so if you’re looking for an alternative festive day out, this will be your go-to spot. It’s relaxed, intimate and the main destination for Cantonese fusion dining.

Indulge in their celebration duck, grilled seabass, or their sizzling Cantonese-style beef.

Not to mention all the bar snacks, small plates and soul-warming soups. This festive season, let The Rabbit Hole be your ultimate destination for a gastronomic adventure that transcends the ordinary, leaving you with memories as delightful as the flavours that grace your palate. therabbitholedurham.co.uk

21

Matfen Hall

Celebrate the Christmas period in unparalleled luxury at Matfen Hall. Their three-night getaway features live musical performances, festive cocktails, extraordinary dining opportunities, and much more. This splendid countryside retreat is the ideal destination to cosy up by the fire and experience a traditional Christmas like no other.

Revel in the delight of a Christmas Afternoon Tea and savour a winter afternoon in the enchanting Orangery. This festive wonder showcases freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches filled with seasonal delights, and beautifully crafted pastries - all infused with a delightful touch of Christmas spirit courtesy of their talented chefs. As Christmas is all about indulgence, why not treat yourself even further with a bottle of Laurent-Perrier Champagne? It’d be rude not to! matfenhall.com

The Vermont

Whether you’re looking for a wholesome family get together or a venue to celebrate with friends or colleagues, The Vermont has it all. Their Christmas Party Nights are guaranteed to be full of seasonal sparkle.

Most packages include a welcome drink on arrival, followed by a delicious three course meal and disco, brought to you by their resident DJ. For families, Santa and his elves are flying in straight from the North Pole to visit your little ones. Head to The Vermont for a festive breakfast buffet, followed by entertainment from Santa and his helpers, plus a visit to the enchanting grotto.

If you’re looking for a more laid back affair, book in for a festive lunch or dinner that will run from 1 to 30 December, and includes two or three courses of all the best that the festive season has to offer, such as a roast turkey crown, a feather blade of beef, and a nut roast. vermont-hotel.com

NOV/DEC23

Wynyard Hall

Embrace the joys of Christmas alongside your nearest and dearest at Wynyard Hall.

Their exquisite events will transform you to a winter wonderland, filled with seasonal delights. Whether you’re looking for an intimate private dining experience with your loved ones, or a joyful get-together to bid farewell to 2023, this stands as the perfect destination for your seasonal celebrations.

Their festive Private Celebration dinner menu brings three courses of winter-inspired dishes, set against the backdrop of one of their grand staterooms, decorated to feel as though you’re dining in Santa’s cosy grotto. If that isn’t enough, indulge in a festive culinary adventure in The Glass House, where classic dishes take on a unique and seasonal flair. Treat yourself to an array of delectable small plates, hearty main courses, and tempting desserts, all complemented by a selection of English wines or a glass of champagne. wynyardhall.co.uk

Tucked away just up from Newcastle’s gorgeous Quayside, lies 21, a restaurant amongst many owned by iconic local restaurateur, Terry Laybourne. 21’s cooking is big on flavour and short on fuss.

Throughout the month of December, 21 is offering a fixed price menu for parties of up to 14. If you’re getting the entire family together for a real feast, they have a spectacular private dining room that caters to parties of over 14.

With an exquisite, traditional and fabulously festive three course menu on offer, you can expect dishes such as split pea soup with smoked ham knuckle and a softly poached egg, and butter-roast turkey with Christmas stuffing, chipolatas and bacon. Make sure you leave room for dessert, as their selection of sweet treats are simply irresistible, namely the Christmas pudding and sweet mince pie.

21newcastle.com

The Impeccable Pig

Indulge with your nearest and dearest at the Impeccable Pig this Christmas.

It has become a must-visit destination for foodies, offering great food with the added attraction of 10 beautifully bespoke bedrooms. The restaurant’s light yet cosy atmosphere, styled with warm creams, rich greens and gold, is the perfect atmosphere to host your Christmas get-together.

The festive Christmas Fayre menu runs from 28 November until 24 December and you’re welcome to join the Christmas Day festivities for an ‘Impeccable’ three course Christmas meal and welcome drink. A truly spectacular way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, without having to lift a finger. impeccablepig.co.uk

Rockliffe Hall

Delight at the wonders of Rockliffe Hall this festive season. Their selection of Christmas events range from Festive Afternoon Teas and seasonal Spa Days, to Party Nights and more. Experience a Christmas Day lunch like no other, with a glass of Veuve Clicquot on arrival, followed by an exquisite five-course lunch in The Orangery.

Rockliffe Hall is also offering a three-night residential break, starting from 24 December, including dinner each evening, breakfast each morning, and use of the award-winning spa. For even more indulgence, you will enjoy a Festive Afternoon Tea with mulled wine and carol singers, a five-course Christmas Day lunch in the Rockliffe Suite with a welcome glass of champagne, a visit from Father Christmas on Christmas Day with a gift for all children, plus complimentary festive activities throughout your stay. rockliffehall.com

luxe-magazine.co.uk 47

SAY CHEERS

Raise a glass

With the cold weather outside, it’s time to find warmth by sipping on some of our seasonal favourites…

A comforting taste >>

A classic >>

Dom Pérignon Champagne Dom Pérignon Champagne is the epitome of elegance and luxury, making it the perfect choice for celebrating the festive season. This iconic bubbly, named after the legendary monk Dom Pérignon, is synonymous with sophistication and refinement. It carries delicate notes of eucalyptus, mint, vetiver, plums, apricots and orange blossom, creating an enchanting aroma that sets the mood for joyous holiday gatherings. Whether sipped as an aperitif, paired with decadent holiday feasts, or enjoyed during a toast to the year ahead, this prestigious champagne will take your Christmas celebration to new heights. *Tasting notes: Dom Pérignon Champagne is best enjoyed chilled, but if you’re in the mood, feel free to add a strawberry for a beautiful flavour combination. harrods.com

TRY THIS >>

Santa’s Sour SERVES 2 An elegant, zingy sip with a playful edge and a hint of festive sophistication…

Pennington’s Honeycomb Gin Liqueur There is no Christmas without some sweet treats, and Pennington’s Honeycomb Gin Liqueur is the essence of just that, only in a bottle. This velvety liqueur offers a warm, comforting embrace of buttery, cindered caramel, and a hint of smooth honeycomb. Created in the Lake District National Park, this heartwarming liqueur carries a blissful aroma of honey and caramel. With a beautiful bottle design, it would also make for a thoughtful gift to a loved one. *Tasting notes: If you decide to drink it on its own, chill before serving, or alternatively, try pouring it over vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. penningtonspirits.com

A warm embrace >>

Harvey Nichols Mulled Wine This warming and aromatic concoction is a holiday classic, infused with a blend of spices and red wine, creating an experience that evokes the spirit of the season. With its enticing aroma of cloves, cinnamon, and orange zest, each glass transports you to a cosy winter wonderland. Its rich and velvety texture, combined with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, makes it the ideal companion for cold winter nights.

Whether served steaming hot or chilled, this mulled wine is a delightful way to experience Christmas in a glass. *Tasting notes: Pour into a pan and heat at a low temperature until the wine is simmering gently. Once ready, pour into a mug, garnish with a slice of orange and enjoy. harveynichols.com

Ingredients 150ml Ocean Spray Cranberry Classic 100ml lime juice 50ml Peach Schnapps 1 egg white (or two tablespoons of aquafaba if you don’t want to use egg) Handful of ice

48 luxe-magazine.co.uk

Mclean’s Winter Spiced Gin is the ultimate elixir that will transform your holiday season into a spicy and aromatic wonderland. Crafted with precision this gin embodies the very essence of Christmas. Each sip reveals a fusion of flavours, including cinnamon, allspice, pine, angelica, ginger, orange zest and the exotic Madagascan Voatsiperifery peppercorns.

These tiny peppercorns add smoky notes to this holiday tipple. Truly a blessing to your taste buds, It's the perfect companion for creating cherished memories with friends and family. It's no wonder that this exquisite concoction has become our personal favourite and a must-have for anyone seeking the true spirit of the season.

Hot Gin Punch Mclean’s Winter Spiced Gin is best enjoyed with ginger ale, however for the ultimate winter treat, we suggest Hot Gin Punch. It requires little to no effort, but tastes absolutely delicious.

Ingredients 50ml winter spiced gin 200ml cloudy apple juice Method Begin by placing your chosen saucepan over a low flame, and pour 50 ml of winter spiced gin together with 200 ml cloudy apple juice. Next up, carefully add a couple of slices of fresh, fragrant orange to the pan, together with a cinnamon stick and a couple of cloves/allspice berries. As you patiently wait for the alchemy to unfold, keep a watchful eye for the first wisps of vapour. This is a sign of precious gin evaporating! As soon as this happens, remove from the heat and pour it into your favourite mug. Enjoy! mcleansgin.co.uk

Red goodness >>

To garnish 1 whole lime Method To make your garnishes, peel two pieces of lime, approximately 6cm in length. Trim to approximately 2mm in width. Twist around a chopstick to form a ringlet shape and set aside, leaving them loosely around the stick.

To make the cocktail, combine all liquid ingredients and the egg white (or aquafaba) into the shaker and shake for 15 seconds. (Shaking without ice allows the egg white or aquafaba to form a frothy texture within the drink.)

Add the ice to the shaker, replace the lid and shake again for 20 seconds (or until your hands can feel the cold).

Strain into the glasses and grate some lime zest over the top.

Add the lime ringlets to the rim of the glasses and serve.

Sip and enjoy!

TRY THIS >>

Mclean’s Winter Spiced Gin

A smooth ride >>

The Norfolk Nog With a rich, creamy texture and a beautiful blend of spices, The Norfolk Nog is the perfect choice for sipping by a crackling fireplace or sharing with loved ones during the holidays. The carefully curated ingredients include the finest local dairy cream, free-range eggs and a secret blend of spices that evoke memories of gingerbread cookies and warm cinnamon. *Tasting notes: Best enjoyed on a cold winter’s day, poured over lots of ice - or try splashing it into a hot cup of coffee. englishwhisky.co.uk

Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf du Pape 2004 Hailing from the renowned vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in France, this wine is a masterpiece, perfect for celebrating the holiday season. The 2004 vintage offers a harmonious blend of rich red fruit, earthy spices, and subtle notes of leather and tobacco, creating a complex and luxurious flavour profile. Sipping on Château de Beaucastel Châteauneufdu-Pape 2006 by the fireside or during a Christmas dinner will create a sense of warmth, making it a delightful choice for celebrating the most magical time of the year. Much like a glass of champagne over Christmas, a glass of red wine is a must. *Tasting notes: This wine pairs splendidly with hearty holiday fare, from roasted meats to aged cheeses, enhancing the festive culinary experience. fortnumandmason.com

NOV/DEC23

ADVERTORIAL

Matfen Hall enhances exceptional dining experience

Nestled in the heart of the idyllic Northumberland countryside, the magnificent Matfen Hall has long stood as a bastion of luxury and refinement. Its regal architecture, lush gardens, and commitment to creating an exceptional guest experience have drawn discerning individuals from around the world

And now, with the appointment of Ernst Van Zyl as its new Head Chef, Matfen Hall’s vision is to further develop what is already an exceptional dining experience, with a focus on a more international flavour to its offer.

Prior to Van Zyl's move to Matfen Hall, he was the Head Chef at The Isle of Eriska Hotel, a prestigious 5-star establishment in Benderloch, Oban, where he had an impressive 3 AA Rosettes.

Ernst Van Zyl brings an unparalleled wealth of expertise to Matfen Hall, accumulated over a remarkable 25-year culinary career that has taken him to the world's most celebrated dining destinations. His innovative approach has solidified his position as a leading figure within the world of modern cuisine.

"I am thrilled to be joining the Matfen Hall family and taking on the role of Head Chef," Van Zyl said. "I have always been passionate about pushing culinary boundaries and delivering the best dining experiences possible. Matfen Hall provides the perfect platform for me to showcase my skills and creativity."

It's not just about a remarkable CV, though – Van Zyl's commitment to his craft and his relentless pursuit of excellence is nothing short of extraordinary. He was a semi-finalist

NOV/DEC23

in the prestigious National Chef of the Year competition in both 2011 and 2012, and has won a string of accolades demonstrating his commitment to delivering nothing but the best.

What distinguishes Van Zyl is his extensive international experience, having honed his skills (as a stagiaire) at some of the world's most renowned restaurants, such as Maaemo in Oslo, Norway, and Restaurant Frantzen/Lindeberg in Stockholm, Sweden.

He has also graced the kitchens of Le Manoir Au Quat Saisons in Oxford, Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark, and the iconic Heston Blumenthal's Fat Duck restaurant.

Such diverse international exposure has transformed him into a truly multicultural chef with a breadth of flavours and techniques that few can rival.

Van Zyl ensures his dishes always embrace a flavour of the region. Provenance is key to this. The innovative chef loves to source as much produce as close to the property as possible. This includes foraging and bringing produce, plants and herbs into the kitchen and onto the plate. This all lends to a sustainable approach to cooking.

Van Zyl brings the love of local flavour to each of the restaurants that form part of the overall diverse dining offer at Matfen Hall.

Matfen Hall offers a vast array of dining options that cater to every palate and preference. It's a promise of diversity and

versatility, underpinned by the same commitment to delivering the highest quality in every culinary creation.

The Emerald Restaurant offers a 5 star culinary experience with a focus on using the finest, carefully sourced ingredients.

As a premier dining destination, guaranteed to deliver a stunning experience, the Emerald Restaurant provides the perfect backdrop to enjoy a wonderful Evening Meal or traditional Sunday Lunch.

The Cloisters Restaurant offers relaxed all-day dining with an excellent view of the Great Hall's magnificent stained-glass window, and remains the perfect spot for guests to unwind and savour the culinary delights that Matfen Hall has to offer.

For those seeking something a bit different, Matfen Hall offers The Orangery - a dedicated tea lounge that serves a distinctive afternoon tea experience. Here, the atmosphere is light, bright, and inviting.

The options include Classic Afternoon Tea, Champagne Afternoon Tea (a glass of Laurent Perrier Harmony) and Laurent Perrier Afternoon Tea (a tasting flight of Laurent Perrier Harmony, Cuvee, and Rose).

In addition they include an Afternoon of Indulgence - tea for four, where the hotel’s chauffeur will collect you from your home

(and drop you back). Matfen Hall has also recently introduced Saicho Sparkling Tea into their range, offering something different to ensure the experience is utterly memorable.

Needham is the epitome of casual elegance.

Whether it's a well-deserved cocktail, a delightful lunch, or an impromptu meeting with friends, Needham caters to your every need. While, if you're in the mood for a more informal but equally inviting setting, The Keepers is your haven. Here, the focus is on fantastic gastro-pub style food.

While Matfen Hall has always been known for offering excellent dining, the introduction of Ernst Van Zyl to the culinary team only serves to reinforce that commitment.

As Matfen Hall invests in its culinary offerings, one thing is clear: luxury is not just a concept; it's an experience. The discerning guest, the connoisseur of fine dining, the lover of exceptional hospitality - all are welcome to indulge in the opulence that Matfen Hall promises. matfenhall.com

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TOP DOG

POSH PETS

Get ready for some serious tail-wagging with our pick of perfect presents for your posh pets...

with Rupert, helped by Nicole Wood

Rupert loves:

Merry Pawmas The sound of a crackling fire, the smell of turkey wafting through the air… it must be the most wonderful time of year! For this luxe pup, long wintry walks in woolly jumpers, cosying up on the sofa with the humans and digging into a festive treat or two is what this time of year is all about.

This Christmas season, I’m putting on my Santa Paws hat and rustling out some cool gift ideas for posh pets on the nice list,

CocoPup Dog Walking Bag Set £34.99-£37.99, lordsandlabradors.co.uk

Barbour Fenmere Dog Coat £47.95, fenwick.co.uk

keeping a close eye on playful pup Elsie and sniffing out some festive-inspired recipes.

With all paws on deck, preparations are in full swing for the big day ahead.

So without further ado, we’d like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year! Here’s to big celebrations and a magical 2024…

PetPlex Dirt Defeater Collection £21.99, lordsandlabradors.co.uk

Rupert, your Luxe pooch x

Try this Peanut butter and banana Christmas trees A festive treat for furry friends to tuck into this Christmas…

The Stylish Dog Company Beige Frost Luxury Faux Fur Dog Blanket From £68, thestylishdogcompany.com

Luxe pet Q&A I’m Elsie, a crazy and lovable Silver Labrador. I’m only four months old, but I’ve certainly made myself known in my forever home. I’ve been known to eat anything in sight, including socks, shoes, slippers, bobbles… you name it. I’ve built quite a reputation and have been given quite a few nicknames already by my humans - Dumbo, Bambi, greedy guts and a few others I probably shouldn’t mention. I’m super happy and excited to be part of this big, loving family.

Ingredients 1 ripe banana 1 ⁄2 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it doesn't contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs) 1 tablespoon honey 1 cup whole wheat flour (or substitute with oat flour for a gluten-free option) 14 ⁄ cup rolled oats 14 ⁄ cup shredded carrots 14 ⁄ cup unsweetened applesauce Christmas tree biscuit cutters Optional: a few small dog-friendly treats for decorating Method Preheat your oven to 175°C. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.

Add the peanut butter and honey to the mashed banana and stir until well combined.

Stir in the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, shredded carrots, and unsweetened applesauce. Mix until a dough forms. You may need to adjust the consistency by adding a little more flour if it's too sticky or a touch more applesauce if it's too dry.

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 6 mm. Use Christmas tree biscuit cutters to cut out shapes from the dough.

Place the cut-out shapes on a lined baking tray.

You can decorate by pressing smaller dog-friendly treats into the tops of the trees.

This step is optional but adds a festive touch!

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the treats are golden brown.

Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Remove the treats from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Once completely cooled, store these Christmas dog treats in an airtight container.

They can be given to your furry friend as a special festive treat! *Remember to adjust the portion sizes based on your dog's size and dietary needs, and be cautious of any allergies or dietary restrictions your dog may have. Always consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about specific ingredients for your pet.

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LUXE WALKS I’m still getting used to my big long legs, but zoomies on the beach are definitely my favourite. My dad takes me out on the big field at the front of our house for a run around but I’ll only participate if he throws my ball. Not just any ball, of course - if it doesn’t make a noise, I’m not chasing it!

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT I’m not a huge fan of the car, it gets me all hot and bothered, but I’ll get on board if I know I’m going to dig holes in the sand and dip my paws in the sea. I do like visiting the shops too, I get lots of attention and treats! I recently got my new winter coat and I heard all the humans saying how adorable I look.

DOGGY DOWNTIME There’s nothing I love more than curling up on the sofa with my humans. When I’m not getting up to mischief, long lazy days with mum are the best!

HOUND HABITS Rumour has it, I’m a little bit of a naughty pup. Apparently chewing anything left in my eye sight isn’t great behaviour, but I can’t help it if everything looks delicious. I heard mum say she’s

on to her fourth pair of slippers since I came home, but they just look so fluffy, I can’t resist!

PUPPY PAMPER I’m a bit of a messy pup so you can often find me being bathed and brushed. Tummy tickles and ear rubs go down a treat too.

DOG’S BEST FRIEND I have lots of best friends. I’m part of a big loving family and I get super excited when they all come to see me. But in the doggy world, my best paw-pal would be Rosie, my human sister’s pooch. She’s a little older than me and often puts me in my place, but when she allows it, we play like the best of friends. Zoomies around the chair, play fights and snuggles…

I know deep down she loves me.

FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY It has to be the day I arrived at my forever home. I remember my family saying I was quiet at first, but little did they know the whirlwind that I was about to become.

PUPPY A-LISTER Sometimes my family call me Dumbo because of my big floppy ears, but I’d say it has to be Bambi. I have super long legs I haven’t quite grown into yet and sometimes they can’t keep up with me. I’m always bumping into things, so my family often refer to me as Bambi on ice.

Don’t forget to get in touch and send in pics of your pet for our next issue via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram… facebook.com/luxemag

@luxe_mag

NOV/DEC23

Merry Markets

Get ready as Jessica Chipman takes you on a joyful ride through the region’s best Christmas markets. Discover the enchantment, nostalgia, and fun that make these markets the ultimate festive experience this Christmas...

Wynyard Hall Christmas Fair 17, 18 AND 19 NOVEMBER

Prepare to be enchanted by the charm of Wynyard Hall’s annual Christmas Fair, as the year’s most joyous shopping event returns. Once again, Wynyard Hall will undergo a magical transformation, turning into a bustling hub for regional bakers, crafters, designers, and an array of talented artisans. They’ll be offering a splendid collection of unique, handcrafted gifts that you won’t find on the high street.

As you explore this magnificent estate, spread across 120 acres, you’ll be enveloped by the rich tapestry of history and the natural beauty that surrounds you. The Christmas Fair is a testament to Wynyard Hall’s commitment to celebrating regional talent and craftsmanship while providing visitors with a truly unique shopping experience. So, mark your calendar and make your way to Wynyard Hall to immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas and discover exceptional, handcrafted treasures. wynyardhall.co.uk

Berwick Christmas Market 10 DECEMBER

Explore the best that Northumberland has to offer, with the wonder of Berwick’s Christmas Market. Held in the Marygate area of the town centre, it features a variety of local and regional vendors perfect for gift ideas this Christmas.

You can expect to find stalls offering a wide range of products, including handmade crafts, festive decorations and seasonal treats. In case that wasn’t enough, there’s also an array of local food and drink stalls, where you can indulge in traditional festive fare like mulled wine, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, and a variety of tasty street food.

Berwick’s Christmas markets often feature live entertainment, including carol singers, local musicians, and Santa’s Grotto, for those who are on the nice list to meet Father Christmas himself. visitberwick.com

NOV/DEC23

FESTIVE DAYS OUT

South Causey Inn Christmas Markets 28 NOVEMBER AND 5, 12, 19 DECEMBER

Raby Estates Christmas Shopping Event 3 NOVEMBER

As the sun sets, Raby Castle will transform into a Christmas dreamland. The Stables Shop Christmas shopping event is your go-to destination for one-of-a-kind gifts, charming stocking fillers, and special Raby-made products. While you explore the delights that are on offer, immerse yourself in the festive ambience, surrounded by shimmering ornaments and the sweet harmonies of Christmas carols.

Savour a glass of sparkling wine or warm mulled wine as you make a start on your Christmas shopping list.

If you’re taking the little ones along with you, make sure you keep a watchful gaze on the magnificent portcullis gates; you might just catch a glimpse of Father Christmas himself.

For those craving a cosy winter meal, The Yurt Cafe will be open for business, serving scrumptious hot food and beverages. So, settle down with a comforting hot chocolate and take in the gorgeous surroundings that embrace you. raby.co.uk

What better way to get into the spirit of Christmas than with delicious street food, handmade crafts, and homemade treats?

Head to the South Causey Inn, where you can explore the delights that await at their festive market, taking place in the enchanting Durham Suite. South Causey’s festive market is an invitation to experience the joy, warmth, and wonder of Christmas. Discover some of the best crafters the North East has to offer, with stylish homeware, handmade jewellery, personalised presents, tasty treats and more. southcausey.co.uk

The York Christmas Market 16 NOVEMBER - 22 DECEMBER

Celebrate the wonder of Christmas in one of the UK’s most festive cities. Each corner is adorned with breathtaking decorations, setting the stage for a truly wonderful winter experience that promises an incredible array of festive events.

Stroll through the cosy alpine chalets, where a world of holiday delights awaits.

Each chalet is aglow with charming fairy lights and brimming with an assortment of exclusive handmade crafts and special treats. Satisfy your taste buds with delectable street cuisine, uncover unique stocking fillers, and relish in the seasonal delights brought to you by a range of local vendors.

For an truly unforgettable York Christmas, consider staying in one of the city’s welcoming hotels, cosy B&Bs, or self-catering accommodations, allowing you the luxury of time to savour every moment of the festive atmosphere with your nearest and dearest. visityork.org/christmas

Bishop Auckland’s Christmas Markets 24 - 26 NOVEMBER

Step into Bishop Auckland’s Christmas Markets and prepare to be transported to a winter wonderland. Featuring a collection of traders who’ve travelled from near and far to offer their creations and create a truly unparalleled Christmas shopping experience. Amidst the market’s charming setup, you’ll discover exclusive gifts, expertly crafted artisanal treasures, and irresistible treats, creating a treasure trove of winter-themed inspiration.

The marketplace is not just a destination for shopping; it’s a journey into the heart of Christmas spirit. Whether you’re on the hunt for that perfect, sentimental gift, or simply yearning to envelop yourself in the warmth and euphoria of the season, Bishop Auckland’s Christmas Markets are the perfect place to be. With a multitude of attractions such as Santa’s Grotto, an enchanting ice rink, captivating live performances, creative workshops, exciting rides and attractions, warm mulled wine, and a mouthwatering selection of festive foods, it’s an experience that encapsulates the true essence of the joyous season. bishopaucklandschristmastown.co.uk

Newcastle Christmas Market 18 NOVEMBER - 23 DECEMBER

Newcastle’s festive extravaganza, sprawled along Grey Street, Grainger Street and Old Eldon Square, promises to be a wondrous experience for all the family. You can kickstart your visit by sipping on a hearty mulled wine from Moosenwirt alpine bar, or savouring a festive bratwurst from a local vendor. Afterward, explore the myriad stalls, brimming with unique Christmas gifts that are perfect for your loved ones, or to treat yourself.

This year, an awe-inspiring 10-metre illuminated Christmas tree will grace Old Eldon Square, and the new performance area near Grey’s Monument will host live music, choirs, and various other entertainment.

What sets Newcastle’s Christmas Market apart is its strong emphasis on local talent and independent businesses. The market celebrates the creative artisans, makers, and independent traders of the region. You’ll discover a wide array of local delights, from bespoke jewellery and eco-friendly beauty products to clothing, churros, chutneys, and everything in-between. newcastlene1ltd.com

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GIFT GUIDE

Making a list...

Unwrap joy this Christmas with our handy gift guides. From timeless classics to trending treasures, discover the most delightful and thoughtful gifts to make this Christmas truly unforgettable…

For fashionistas >>

The most exquisite and elegant Christmas gi

fts for a

fashi

ed o v o dl r a w r o on-f

ne…

Michael Kors Collection Black Calf Tina Minaudière £1,330, michaelkors.co.uk

Raymond Weil Freelancer Men’s Automatic Leather Watch £2,995, raymond-weil.co.uk Purdey Double Face Plain Check Scarf £300, purdey.com

Fairfax & Favor The Sienna Cape £595, fairfaxandfavor.com

Aquae Jewels Choker Tennis Scarlett Oval Precious Stone Diamonds 18K White Gold Emerald £11,901, wolfandbadger.com

Christian Louboutin New Very Prive 120 Black Patent Leather Pumps £780, harveynichols.com

Brunello Cucinelli City Bag £2,510, brunellocucinelli.com

Favourbrook Navy Velvet Cotton Chaucer Jacket £790, favourbrook.com

Giambattista Valli Geometric-jacquard twill midi dress £3,700, matchesfashion.com

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NOV/DEC23

GIFT GUIDE

For foodies >>

The ultimate gift guide for the foodie in your li

fe…

Le Creuset Round Casserole Dish £345, harrods.com

Sage Barista Pro Coffee Machine £769, harrods.com KitchenAid Artisan Tilt-Head 4.7L Stand Mixer £499, kitchenaid.co.uk

Marcato Atlas 150 Wellness Pasta Machine £88, fenwick.co.uk

World Atlas of Wine 8th Edition Hugh Johnson and Jancis Robinson £50, octopusbooks.co.uk LSA Serve Trio Dish £48, fenwick.co.uk

Ooni Karu 16 Multi Fuel Pizza Oven £699, fenwick.co.uk

For beauty lovers >> Th

rfe e pe

ct beauty gifts to pamper your loved one...

Zelens Z-22 Ultimate Face Oil £70, zelens.com

Creed Aventus Eau de Parfum 100ml, £295, harrods.com

Czech & Speake No.88 Shaving Set & Stand £450, harrods.com

DIOR Dior Matte Lipstick £32, fenwick.co.uk

Code8 Beauty Iconoclast Eyeshadow Palette Burnt Sienna £47, codeeight.com

Foreo BEAR™ 2 £438, foreo.com

NOV/DEC23

Aromatherapy Associates Nourishing Cleansing Balm £48, aromatherapyassociates.com

luxe-magazine.co.uk 53

GIFT GUIDE

The White Company Winter Indulgence Botanical Candle £95, thewhitecompany.com Rowen Homes Rae Black and Grey Noughts and Crosses Set £64.00, rowenhomes.com

For interior enthusiast s The perfect gift selection for home b irds

>> …

Johnstons of Elgin Herringbone Jacquard Wool Cushion £195, abask.com Swarovski Holiday Cheers Gingerbread Man Ornament £80, harveynichols.com Goodwill Flock Pine LED Wreath £725, seymourshome.com

Locomocean Acrylic Box Neon Cocktails £119, fenwick.co.uk

Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Diffuser £92, harveynichols.com

Gifts for the lovely little people in your

Very Gabby’s Dollhouse Cruise Ship Playset £69.99, very.co.uk

Nintendo Switch Lite £199.99, johnlewis.com

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life

…

For little ones >>

Versace Medusa crystal-embellished heart necklace £210, harveynichols.com

RIC C Ben O tley ride Ben £43 on toy tayga 0, s c elfr ar idg es. com

Lego Classic Creative Party Box Building Toy £44.99, fenwick.co.uk

NOV/DEC23

GIFT GUIDE Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra From £1,349, samsung.com/uk

Apple Iphone 15 Pro Max From £999, apple.com Montblanc Summit 3 42mm Smartwatch £1,105, mrporter.com

LG Signature M3 97 Inch Smart TV £27,999, lg.com

le >

>

Trek District+ 4 E-bike £3,700, trekbikes.com

For techy

p o pe s..

.

Playstation Playstation 5 Console £479, direct.playstation.com

a tm s i r How to treat the tech-lover in your life this Ch

F

or

w ellbeing gurus >>

Gi fts for those seeking a zen Christmas…

Alo Yoga Warrior Yoga Mat £140, aloyoga.com

Johnstons Of Elgin Cable-knit cashmere water bottle £130, harveynichols.com Laura Mercier Almond Coconut Honey Bath £45, lauramercier.co.uk

Hydragun Atom Mini Massage Gun £179, hydragun.co.uk

Martha Brook Personalised Make It Happen Life Planner £39.95, marthabrook.com

NOV/DEC23

Olivia von Halle Silk Coco Pyjama Set £530, harrods.com

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GETTING AWAY

Escaping the everyday Along the golden stretch of coast from Marbella to Estepona you will find METT Hotel Beach and Resort, a newly-opened paradise waiting to be explored. Nicole Wood checks in for a weekend of relaxation on the Spanish coastline…

A 6am flight from Newcastle International Airport lands us in sunny Spain within a few short hours. A mid-morning arrival allows the warm embrace of the sun to hit us as we step off the plane - a feeling we all desire as the dark winter weather lingers.

Awaiting our arrival are the friendly folk from Costa del Sol Deluxe Transport. A stylish Mercedes equipped with laid back seats, comfortable headrests, the refreshing breeze of aircon and a cold bottle of water makes up our luxe transfer. A short 45-minute ride and we reach our destination - METT Hotel Beach and Resort.

Upon arrival I’m immediately impressed.

The stunning decor, paired with the friendly and attentive reception staff are enough to wipe away the tired, airport-stressed persona I’m currently carrying. Swiftly seated into a comfortable armchair and presented with a welcome drink menu, we’re instantly put at ease as our check-in is processed and our bags promptly delivered to our room.

The METT welcome cocktail mirrors the crisp, refreshing ambience that’s felt as soon as you step into this impressive resort. There are no elements of a typical hotel here, instead you step into a new world which

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dissociates from everyday life. It’s a place where worries are left behind and ultimate relaxation begins. The majestic olive tree standing tall in the centre of the lobby immediately catches the eye, before the jaw-dropping background of the sea in the distance transports us into a world of calm, peace and tranquillity. The interior design embraces the use of organic materials of cotton and wood, contributing to an overall sense of relaxation. A refined elegance if you will. Natural greenery, whitewashed walls, ceramics tucked into cosy alcoves, and tasteful blue accents transport you to the heart of the Mediterranean. The calming check-in experience sets the tone for what we can already guess is going to be a blissful stay.

The vibe here is a refined, authentic and laid-back lifestyle. The bohemian chic design draws in like-minded guests looking for an enriching escape that blends modern minimalism and easy living, all within a stunning environment. The service style is discrete and precise but without frills or fuss. Each interaction comes with an open attitude that encourages the art of conversation to flow freely without pressure or an agenda.

The five-star lifestyle property features 249 elegant and beautifully designed rooms

and suites around the state-of-the-art Azure Beach pool, with uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean Sea. We check in to one of the sea view deluxe rooms overlooking the Azure Beach pool, which provides the opportunity to feel at the centre of the resort's energy. A comfortable double size bed equipped with crisp white linens and cloud-like pillows takes centre stage. The design is chic Andalusian with hand-picked furnishing and accessories, with great attention to detail creating a welcoming atmosphere. A large LG TV adorns the wall, and a fully equipped mini bar, luxury amenities and fluffy robes are just a few

of the elegant touches we find in our room.

The bathroom is made up of a walk-in rain shower, double sink and a his and hers pamper package - a delightful and welcoming touch.

We quickly unpack, change into our holiday attire and head poolside. The staff here can’t do enough for you. No request is too much, every need is taken care of and we’re waited on hand and foot like royalty. The resort defines itself as a place for relaxed people with high expectations and Azure Beach helps do exactly that. The original of its kind resides in the heart of Dubai at the Rixos Hotel in the popular JBR area. But here,

NOV/DEC23

GETTING AWAY

Guests lounge on luxuriously comfortable loungers that rival beds, savouring sushi, sipping on cocktails and bottles of the finest wine presented in ice buckets, all while soaking up the sun nestled among the heavenly white sands and shimmering blue waters of the Mediterranean, Azure Beach sets the scene for the ultimate relaxed lifestyle in a luxury setting. Think kicking back by the infinity pool and unwinding to the soundtrack of sun-soaked satisfaction while sampling exotic cocktails, and mouth-watering Pan-Asian cuisine. That’s what it’s all about here. A selection of sushi, chicken yakitori, prawn tacos, mini wagyu burgers, club sandwiches and pizzas are just a few of the delicious dishes that we have the pleasure of tucking into when it comes to poolside lunches.

With unobstructed vistas, Azure Beach's pool emerges as a sanctuary for sun worshippers. Adorned with exclusive island beds, decked out with cosy cushions and beach towels which are laid out for you upon your arrival, it caters to those who covet a life of opulence, offering the quintessential setting to bask in the day's splendour amidst breathtaking surroundings. To elevate the luxury experience further, private exclusive cabanas can be taken advantage of to create the ultimate poolside experience. Crafted to deliver utmost seclusion and relaxation set against the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean.

This isn't merely a hotel featuring a pool; it's the pool that defines the essence of this place. Here, the fresh saltwater pool is the impressive focal point. Its vast expanse and ever-changing hues resemble a flowing river, transitioning gracefully from green to blue, seamlessly merging with the boundless sea beyond. Life revolves around this aquatic wonder: guests recline on luxuriously comfortable loungers that rival beds, savouring sushi, sipping on cocktails

NOV/DEC23

and bottles of the finest wine presented in ice buckets, all while soaking up the sun, engrossed in gripping novels and enjoying toe-tapping moments from the in-house live DJ. Myself and my partner are simply at peace here.

As the sun begins to set, a glass of vino and a delicious dinner awaits at Isola - a culinary gem inspired by the rich food traditions of the south and islands of Italy. Isola offers a gastronomic escapade consisting of home-made pasta and Italian favourites.

Think a taste of modern classics with an extensive wine selection sourced from the best producing regions in Italy. Starters come in the shape of Carpaccio di Branzino, Carpaccio di Manzo, Tartare di Tonno con Avocado and more mouth-watering delicacies, but for us, it’s the Calamari Fritti (€24), that catches our eye. Served with lemon and a paprika and lime mayo, it’s a zingy dish to kickstart the palate.

Fresh clam pasta, fluffy pinsas and fragrant salads are the types of dishes you can expect when it comes to the mains. For me, it’s the Linguine All’astice (€42), a hearty portion of lobster infused with a delicious tomato-based sauce and topped with basil.

Each mouthful packs a hint of spice and leaves me craving more. My partner goes for something a little more traditional and tucks into a delicious bowl of Tagliatelle alla Bolognese (€29). A saucy dish with bountiful flavours - it’s everything one wants from a bolognese.

A live band playing slow jazz creates the perfect atmosphere as we sip our wine and let our food digest before even considering dessert. When the time comes, I sweeten the deal with the Tortino al Cioccolato (€11), an indulgent haven of warm chocolate fondant

served with a palate-cleansing hazelnut ice cream. My travelling companion chooses the Tatelletta al Limone (€10), a sweet and tangy citrusy lemon curd with soft meringue that leaves him desiring more.

The foodie offering continues to impress at breakfast the following morning. Buttery pastries, fresh fruit, creamy yoghurts and refreshing juices are just a few of the sensational options you can choose from when it comes to the continental offering.

You can fill your plate to your heart's content before ordering your cooked option from the à la carte menu. We choose bacon and eggs on toast and mini fluffy waffles with chocolate and raspberry compote, alternating the following day after envying other guests’ choices.

Our day is made up of a stroll along the beach, a dip in the sea and a long lazy afternoon by the pool. There’s no pressure here. The quiet and peaceful location of this resort encourages you to enjoy your days however you desire, at a pace that suits you.

Following a chaotic few months, simply relaxing and enjoying one another’s company is exactly what this holiday is all about for us. For those who prefer to explore the cultural gems and vibrant towns, a short taxi journey to either Estepona or Marbella is highly recommended.

A set menu at the elegant Bar de Lola is on the cards for tonight's dinner plans. This stunning spot within the resort is the ideal place for those who wish to taste some of the best and typical tapas. Made with local products and accompanied by an exquisite selection of wines and cocktails, it's the perfect setting for a romantic evening.

Keeping guests interested with a vast and delicious foodie offering is something METT Hotel and Beach Resort is already succeeding at, and will continue to with the addition of Ammos, a beachfront Greek restaurant, next year.

If this idyllic resort wasn't already relaxing enough, prepare for the grand opening of MOI, a luxurious 500-square-metre spa, set to debut later this year. A holiday experience is not complete without the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation. At MOI Spa, skilled therapists are on hand to help you select the ideal treatment tailored to your holiday preferences, whether it's for soothing, pampering, de-stressing, or invigorating both your mind and body.

Unwinding and disconnecting are essential aspects of holiday life, and MOI Spa provides a wide array of services to help you achieve just that. From timeless and traditional treatments such as massages and facials to an array of wellness treatments and beyond, the spa here is set to offer a diverse range of options to cater to your every need. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the cutting-edge gym equipped with Technogym facilities, while those who prefer personalised fitness guidance can take advantage of the professional personal training service.

At the core of its philosophy, METT was founded with a commitment to sustainability. The spa is powered by 504 solar panels for self-consumption, exemplifying its dedication to eco-friendly practices. The pools are efficiently temperature-controlled by an intelligent heat pump, ensuring a comfortable swim without excessive energy consumption.

Notably, the resort proudly holds the esteemed North American BREEAM sustainability certificate and its dedication to reducing environmental impact is evident throughout the property, with a strict ban on single-use plastic in all guest rooms.

From the luxury rooms and the relaxing environment, to the chilled-out atmosphere, friendly staff and indulgent foodie offering, each and every aspect of our stay has been a blissful escape from everyday life. The sun was shining, every need was taken care of and we left feeling relaxed and rejuvenated… what more could one want from a long weekend on the Spanish coastline? mettsocialliving.com

TUI Airways flights are available directly from Newcastle International Airport to Costa Del Sol, Malaga Airport, taking approximately three hours.

If you’re booking a TUI Airways flight, one piece of hand luggage of up to 10kg per person is included free of charge as well as an additional 15kg piece of luggage for package holidays. Additional luggage for flight only holidays can be purchased at an extra charge. *TUI offers return flights to Malaga from £259 per person. Price is based on a 7-night trip departing from Newcastle International Airport on 18 April 2024, including 15kg luggage. tui.co.uk

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WILD & WONDERFUL

Between fire and ice Craig Iley discovers the best Iceland has to offer during a five-day adventure…

For many tourists, a trip to Iceland typically involves exploring Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Blue Lagoon, all of which offer valuable experiences. However, Iceland's vast expanse presents more opportunities for adventurous travellers seeking unique experiences. The expansive land of ice and fire, larger than Scotland and Wales combined, offers untamed beauty.

Venturing north offers a less-travelled path.

Akureyri, the charming capital of the North, can be reached through direct international flights or domestic flights from Reykjavik, or a scenic cross-country drive. From Akureyri, the ‘Diamond Circle’ tour unveils hidden gems like Husavik, Ásbyrgi canyon, Dettifoss waterfall, volcanic landscapes of Mývatn, and the captivating lava formations of Dimmuborgir, a Game of Thrones filming

location. The Troll peninsula is another gem, celebrated for its Viking heritage and stunning scenery. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy various outdoor activities, especially during the snowy midwinter, ideal for aurora spotting and skiing, including heliskiing.

However, there’s more to Iceland than the traditional sights. Here’s one itinerary for a short self-drive winter break on the Troll peninsula.

Day 1 >> Explore Akureyri and spend the late afternoon or early evening at the Forest Lagoon, situated just outside of town.

Stay and have dinner at the Centrum Hotel, or Rub23 for excellent sushi.

Day 2 >> Head northwest to Hauganes for an early morning whale-watching adventure.

Next stop Dalvík, to enjoy a lunch of fish

soup at the storied Gisli-Eiríkur-Helgi café, before continuing north to Iceland’s most northerly town Siglufjörður. Stay two nights at the Sigló Hotel and enjoy one of the town’s various restaurants.

Day 3 >> Wake up and stretch your legs with an electric mountain bike tour with Sóti Summits. Depending on your comfort level, you can explore the outskirts of Siglufjörður, visiting beaches, mountain valleys and a secret waterfall, or more adventurous riders might opt for a challenging ride over the mountain pass Siglufjarðarskarð.

After a hearty lunch at the bakery or local fish and chip shop, head to the fjord for a kayak or stand-up paddleboard adventure with the experienced guides at Sigló Sea, who also offer wild swimming - only for the brave.

Day 4 >> After a leisurely breakfast overlooking the harbour, continue around the northern tip of the peninsula. Drive carefully on the rugged road, taking plenty of time to enjoy the views of the mountains and the Greenland Sea. On a clear day, you can see as far as the snow-capped mountains of the Westfjords.

Stop at Langhús Horse Farm, for trekking on

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the unique Icelandic horses. This distinctive breed has a fascinating history and it has played an integral role in Icelandic history and culture.

Spend the night at Soti Lodge, where you can relax in the geothermal swimming pool before enjoying a sumptuous three-course dinner, all while keeping an eye out for a glimpse of the elusive northern lights!

Day 5 >> After a complimentary breakfast, head on to Sauðarkrókur for a visit to the volcanic island Drangey. With expert guide Helgi, you can get up close and personal with the puffins and learn of the legends associated with the Island.

Alternatively head to Hofsós, where you can check if you have any Icelandic ancestors at the Emigration Museum, or take a dip in the local infinity pool, with spectacular views across Skagafjörður.

Head back to Akureyri, or continue west to Reykjavík, with your eyes full of sights, your mind full of memories and your soul refreshed.

And if that doesn’t quite suit you, there are plenty more opportunities including Beer Spa visits, museums, white-water rafting, hiking trails, town and brewery tours, boat trips, wild hot pools and so much more.

NOV/DEC23

SUN SEARCHING

HIP HOTELS with Debrah Dhugga

As winter approaches, Debrah Dhugga reminisces on sun soaked days and encourages you to spend your Christmas break at Bahia del Duque in Tenerife

Imagine a pool lit up with candles and decorated with fresh roses while you enjoy delicious food

November is the perfect time to start thinking about that Christmas/winter sun break. I recommend the stunning 5-star Bahia del Duque at one of The Leading Hotels of the World in Tenerife.

Nestled next to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in one of the most prestigious areas of Tenerife (Costa Adeje), Bahia del Duque is a perfect hotel to visit for a dose of winter sunshine. With a fantastic culinary offering, including Michelin starred Nub, an amazing wellness area, plus an abundance of winter activities and amenities to enjoy, you can completely relax and disconnect from the buzz of day-to-day life.

Bahia del Duque, with its gorgeous ocean views, is designed to recreate a traditional Canarian Colonial villa from the 19 century, This beautiful hotel also has the most spectacular tropical gardens to wander around. Bahia del Duque offers a relaxed

NOV/DEC23

interpretation of luxury, privacy, and the most beautiful surroundings with a mixture of rooms and villas to choose from. The interiors are a mix of light tapestries on natural fabrics, blending with the touch of wood and the use of prints on fabrics and wallpapers, creating an exotic mix with a relaxing aesthetic. Some of the furniture consists of unique pieces designed in-house and produced by local craftspeople.

WELLNESS >> The award-winning Bahia Wellness Retreat offers 20 treatment cabins, three thalassotherapy treatment rooms, five outdoor cabins, two private VIP Suites, four Thai treatment rooms, and a Thai Room Plaza area. There are also plenty of wellness focused programmes on offer, including special diets and sleep therapy stays.

This family-welcoming resort also has a beach-restaurant/takeaway. Located on the promenade, next to Playa del Duque beach,

everything on the menu is designed to take away and enjoy at your own picnic spot in the gardens or on the beach. The menu hosts a range of organic fruit, seasonal vegetables, clean protein and complex carbohydrates - the key to a balanced diet and healthy eating even while on holiday.

For those, who enjoy keeping fit on holiday, the new international yoga instructor, Nannette Zwick hosts creative and professional lessons that can be tailored and personalised to welcome all ages.

The hotel has also just recently introduced their new and exclusive ‘Floating culinary selection’. Guests can enjoy a gourmet brunch or dinner served on a large floating dish, whilst relaxing in the pool for an especially memorable meal. Imagine a pool lit up with candles and decorated with fresh roses while you enjoy delicious food!

FOOD >> Bahia del Duque itself has 13 lounges and

eight restaurants, one of which has a Michelin star. Guests can enjoy the most exquisite international dishes including Italian, French, Basque, and Canarian cuisine.

Kensei, offers fine dining contemporary Japanese cuisine; Nub, with a Michelin star and a Sol Repsol offers a wonderful blend of Latin American and European flavours and ingredients, to create an incredible gastronomic and sensory journey for guests.

Other locations at Bahia del Duque include La Brasserie by Pierre Resimont, a traditional French brasserie; El Bernegal, which offers some of the best views of the island of La Gomera; and Sua, which specialises in Basque cuisine, combining local produce with smoked aromas and authentic flavours.

ONE OF A KIND EXPERIENCE >> The stargazing in Tenerife is one of the best and largest in the world. Bahia del Duque not only has its very own observatory, but also offers a certified astronomical guide to accompany guests up Mount Teide with viewing sites located at an altitude of 2,526m, where couples or smaller groups can enjoy the clear sky.

I can’t recommend this little piece of paradise enough. It’s truly the most perfect location to disconnect and enjoy the winter sun. thetaishotels.com/bahia-del-duque

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LUXE PEOPLE

THE LUXE LOWDOWN:

Jim Ryan

We check in with the CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment about his travels, downtime and important lessons in life...

GETTING TO KNOW YOU >> Name: Jim Ryan Title: President and Global CEO, Sony Interactive Entertainment Where is home? I live in Highgate, in North London, although work requires me to travel a lot, principally to the Bay Area in California but also to Tokyo. There’s a big difference between where you live, and where your home is. Even after almost fifty years away, I still think of Newcastle as my home.

Nothing beats the feeling when the train crosses the bridge and you look up and down the Tyne. Nothing.

Three reasons you love where you live?

I don’t really. I’m happy in London but I don’t love it here. It makes all the sense in the world from a family and work perspective to live here, but if I left, I wouldn’t miss it that much.

three just as the West Coast is getting going, and slog through on Teams until supper.

By the end of the day, my eyes are bleeding from looking at a screen for too long…

Face-to-face is better but that requires me to be on the West Coast or in Japan. Those trips are always energising but also exhausting.

With each year that passes, jet lag gets harder and harder to deal with. The human body simply isn’t designed to teleport across continents – anyone who thinks regular long-haul business travel is exotic and exciting is out of touch with reality!

THE DAY JOB >> What do you do for a living?

I run Sony’s global PlayStation business.

PlayStation is now the largest and most profitable part of Sony. That’s all very important, but just as crucial is my accountability to be towards the PlayStation Community, and how I ensure that people are surprised and delighted by the games and services that we offer them. This is a non-trivial challenge as what gamers love in Tokyo can be very different to what gamers love in Dubai, which again, can be very different to what gamers in Ohio love.

I guess I’m biased but I think I have the best job in the world.

LESSONS IN LIFE >> What did you want to be when you were growing up?

I wanted to be a professional football player, but I was too small, too slow and not remotely talented enough. Happily, I figured all these things out early enough so I wasn’t unduly disappointed.

A day in the life of you?

It depends on where I am. If I’m in the UK, I get up very early for the London/Tokyo crossover, break around midday, then sleep, eat and have a walk, then start again around

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What does downtime mean to you?

I’m away so much that downtime is spent resting and with the family. I have a serious passion for good wine and the usual good stuff, televised sports and high-end crime novels.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?

At work, I always say ‘stay humble, do your best, and enjoy yourself’. It took me many years to figure out something that is extremely simple and straightforward – I think it applies well enough to all aspects of life. I think if you live along those lines, things will end up OK over time.

What is your greatest fear?

My generation has been privileged to live in golden times. I fear that something terrible

happens which screws the world up for my teenage daughters.

Which living person do you most admire and why?

I think the world is desperately short of leaders to really admire, and that’s a big concern. I must say that I find Eddie Howe to be a deeply impressive person. Humble and straightforward yet, very very smart.

LIVING LUXE >> What is top of your bucket list?

I would love to be in the stadium when NUFC wins the Champions League. I think this will happen within the next ten years.

What is your most treasured possession?

I’m fortunate enough not to care in the slightest about material possessions. Cars and clothes don’t interest me in the slightest and entertainment is all digital now. I have an old watch that was my dad’s which I value hugely for sentimental reasons.

What does the weekend mean to you?

A memorable holiday?

Weekends mean sleep, no work, and really good food and wine. We have a place in France in the Roussillon where most holidays are spent. I love it down there, mooching around and doing very little.

Best dress?

T-shirt and jeans, always. I wear a tie maybe twice a year and hate it. Since lockdown I’ve even started to find a collar uncomfortable – when you stand back and think about it, both the collar and the tie are absurd, unnecessary affectations.

Who would be your top-three dinner guests?

Pep Guardiola, Eddie Jones, and Brendon

McCullum. That covers off the three great sports. The conversation would be brilliant, and I reckon all three enjoy a jar.

I wouldn’t get a word in edgeways but who cares.

The last place you ate?

Café 21 in Newcastle. I always go when I am in town.

The last book you read?

I am weirdly interested in The Hundred Years War, right now (I know, I know). I am ploughing through Jonathan (Lord) Sumption’s magisterial five-volume history of the period, and enjoying various bits of fiction based around it. Bernard Cornwell took time off from Sharpe to write an excellent quartet, and Dan Jones is very good. I can’t figure it out, it’s not like the English won in the end...

The last thing you listened to?

I listened to some Bach on the train back down from the Dortmund (H) game to drown out the noise of the people around me.

The last thing you watched?

I am halfway through the final season of Sex Education which is one of the best and funniest things I have seen in years.

Your three luxe things in life?

Family, fully-stocked Kindle and fullystocked Wine Cellar.

Jim Ryan will be the keynote speaker at the North East Chamber of Commerce Presidents’ Supper, a gathering of the region’s most influential business community, at St James’ Park in December.

NOV/DEC23

SEASONAL STYLE

Deck the halls From timeless tones to playful palettes, Jessica Chipman picks out colour schemes that will transform your home into a winter wonderland this year...

Timeless Traditional What better way to decorate your home than with the colours adorned by Father Christmas himself?

The brilliant scarlet which graces his jacket, Rudolph’s nose, and the berries on a holly bush, goes hand in hand with green to form the crème de la crème of traditional Christmas decor. Red cinnamon scented candles, baubles, blankets and wrapping paper, paired with leafy green garlands and wreaths, and a luscious Norway spruce come together to produce the cosiest of Christmas vibes that take us back to our childhood.

Playful Pinks Break the mould and channel your inner Christmas Barbie with a perfect pink theme.

The pink colour palette is fun, contemporary and ranges from baby pink and coral, to deep raspberry and aubergine. Dress your tree with pink ribbons and candy canes, or maybe incorporate a dusty pink table runner to add a splash of colour to your festive feast. Pink hues can be used alone or combined with other colours like gold, silver, white or even red for a striking contrast. Pink and metallic accents, such as gold or rose gold, can create a luxurious and glamorous vibe.

This style often incorporates tinsel, glitter, and shiny ornaments.

Icy Blue Blue Christmas tones are inspired by the cool and refreshing hues of winter. These shades create a classic Scandinavian and wintry atmosphere, evoking the feeling of snow days. Winter blues come in various shades, namely pale ice blue, which whisks us away to idyllic frozen landscapes, and often comes in the form of tinsel and tree ornaments. Navy blue adds depth and contrast to the palette, representing the night sky and the stillness of winter nights, often found in the form of ribbons, stockings and table settings. Blue tones create an enchanting ambience that evoke a sense of tranquillity that is reflective of a real winter wonderland.

Earthy Tones Inspired by nature and the rustic beauty of the outdoors, these tones typically include warm, muted, and natural shades that evoke a cosy and down-to-earth ambience during Christmas time. Rich, deep browns can be used for ornaments, tree decorations, and as a base colour for wrapping paper or table settings. Rust, terracotta, and copper are warm tones that add depth and richness to the cosy colour theme. Earthy decorations such as pine cones, acorns, burlap and twine can be used to enhance your theme and create a rustic, woodland-inspired look in your home this winter.

NOV/DEC23

luxe-magazine.co.uk

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COOL DESIGN

Click Style Limited White Cable Knit Throw £265, clickstyle.co.uk Sofas & Stuff Haresfield in Napoli Airforce £4,145, sofasandstuff.com

The Monkey Puzzle Tree Metamorphosis Linen Union Cushion £120, themonkeypuzzletree.com

Sweetpea & Willow A Modern Grand Tour - Peacock - Mini Feather Lamp £2,400, sweeapeaandwillow.com

Portmeirion Sophie Conran Barrel Mugs £44, portmeirion.co.uk

INTERIOR INSPIRATION

Winter wishlist

Subtle pinks, earthy tones, and icy blues are all the craze this upcoming winter season…

Jan Constantine Navy Blue Marine Wall Hanging £925, janconstantine.com

Wayfair Sheepskin Cream Rug £199.99, wayfair.co.uk

The Stables Shop Raby Throws From £78, Raby Castle Gift Shop, Co. Durham DL2 3AH

Cult Furniture Orla Expression Rug £169, cultfurniture.com

Country Mouse Gotland Pink Dot Wool Throw £85, countrymouse.co.uk

Seymours Home Blumarine Blu Velvet Comforter £635, seymourshome.com

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NOV/DEC23

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HAPPY TIMES

School LITTLE MOMENTS noticeboard with Nadia McSheffrey

Our Luxe parenting expert, Nadia McSheffrey, discusses the different emotions both parents and children can experience during this time of the year and how we can learn to embrace them As our minds turn to wrapping paper, decorating trees and school nativity plays, different emotions can bubble to the surface. This time of year can be a different experience for all of us, but one thing is for sure, emotions are heightened and our children feel them just as much as we do.

Joy, sadness, fear, anger and love are five key emotions that can cause both pleasure and pain - especially during this time of the year. According to research, there are believed to be two distinct types of emotions that humans feel: primary and secondary. According to the acclaimed neuroscientist Antonio Damasio: “Primary emotions are immediate, instinctual responses to stimuli (e.g. joy, fear, sadness). They’re universal and often linked to specific events or situations.

Secondary emotions are reactions to primary emotion and are more complex, often influenced by personal experiences, beliefs and thoughts.”

Let’s start with the primary feeling of joy.

Festive joy brings with it the secondary emotions of excitement, delight and if we’re thinking about gifts or unexpected guests, an element of surprise. When our children feel joy, they are often giddy and lively. If we are feeling the same, then we can enjoy Christmas to the max, but often children who are overly-stimulated become hyperactive and can melt down. When they are running around or bouncing off the walls, we tend to raise our voices and become excessively animated as well. This results in a slightly manic scene where the kids are screaming, we are shouting and everyone has lost control. What can we do in these situations? Well, we need to centre ourselves first, breathe and bring everything down a notch. Speak in a confident yet low, slow voice. Stand or sit still. Take time.

Hold space. Wait for the wave of chaos to pass. Joy doesn’t need to be loud and in your face; joy can be gentle and calm too.

Sadness can come up in two major ways during the festive season; through loss and disappointment. You may be a family dealing with grief at the moment and Christmas can be an especially difficult time. Don’t be afraid to share this with your children. Children are like sponges and they will pick up on your mood even if you are desperately trying to hide it, so you can say something like, “I know I’m a little sad today but when I was making the biscuits with you it reminded me of Grandma and I miss her.” You don’t need to dwell or wallow in grief with your child but acknowledging that you feel sad because you miss someone and memories can bring that emotion to the surface, are healthy lessons for your child to learn.

Disappointment is something your child may have to deal with if they don’t receive the gift they have been wishing for.

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Sometimes, this can come across as ungratefulness from an adult perspective but remember, most children are innately self-centred (this is normal up until 7-years-old) and are governed by the emotional part of their brain. So, if your child seems disappointed with a gift, please don’t take it personally; often their response is unintentional. Acknowledge that they are disheartened and at a later stage, use the incident as a teaching moment. You can focus on empathy and how their reaction can have an impact on others. Be a good role-model. If your child sees you solely focusing on the materialistic aspect of the season then they will follow suit and it will only be about the gifts. If you highlight the virtues of giving and model gratitude, your children will absorb this and be more likely to exude it themselves. This is much more impactful than calling them a ‘spoilt brat’ and threatening to give all of their toys away on Boxing Day! Fear presents itself in many different forms but usually with parents, we see it as stress and overwhelm at Christmas.

We have a fear of running out of time, a fear of not making things special enough, a fear of not meeting expectations. When we say ‘yes’ to everything and load too much onto our plate, we begin to resent it.

Here’s one tip - delegate. I know some of us have a fear of delegation because we think that if we don’t do the job ourselves, it won’t get done or it won’t get done to our standards, but honestly, we need to give ourselves grace. Do the gifts really need to be wrapped with the panache of Rowan Atkinson in Love Actually? Do the napkins really need to be folded into intricate swans? Delegate to anyone who offers. Cut corners if it saves your sanity.

Remember, that it’s your Christmas too and if you’re stomping around the kitchen or muttering obscenities under your breath, driving your children to the pantomime because you are stressed out and on the verge of tears, no-one is going to be in the festive spirit.

And that brings me to the final and most glorious emotion of love. Love can be felt so much at this time of year and sometimes in the most unexpected ways, if we just allow ourselves to feel it. When we feel a sense of contentment snuggling up on the sofa, that is love. When we feel a sense of compassion for helping someone else, that is love. So, if you take anything away from this busy yet exciting season, take away the deep feeling of love for yourself and those around you.

Nadia McSheffrey is founder of The Tranquil Treehouse. For daily parenting support, follow her on Facebook and Instagram @tranquiltreehouse

Luxe checks in with some local schools on their latest news, highlights and achievements…

A leading light

Cardinal Hume Catholic School has been selected as a lead hub school for the National Consortium for Languages Education (NCLE), marking a significant achievement in its commitment to providing top-tier education. This distinction reinforces Cardinal Hume’s dedication to advancing language education and expanding opportunities for students in Gateshead and beyond, by supporting other secondary schools in the region.

Cardinal Hume, affiliated with the Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust (BWCET), will play a central role in the Department of Education’s groundbreaking £14.9 million language programme, led by University College London’s Institute of Education (IoE). This initiative aims to increase language learning opportunities, particularly for disadvantaged students, encouraging a broader range of students to choose languages as part of their academic journey. cardinalhume.com

Wonderful achievement

Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation proudly accepted the Bronze Award for its dedicated efforts in supporting the United Against Bullying Campaign. Spearheaded

by Mrs Thompson, Mrs Balfour, and Ms Thompson, the Foundation conducted a comprehensive audit and student surveys to understand the school’s current anti-bullying strategies. Each year, the school actively participates in Anti-Bullying Week, emphasising the importance of their MARK values in addressing such issues.

The award recognises their commitment, prompting the development of a standalone anti-bullying policy to reinforce their efforts.

With a holistic approach involving continuous professional development (CPD) for staff and a thorough student wellbeing assessment, the Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to create a safe and inclusive environment. dcsf.org.uk

Outstanding award

Royal Grammar School Newcastle was honoured as the ‘Independent School of the Year’ at the Independent School Parent Awards in London, beating 700 other top private schools. This achievement is underpinned by their commitment to providing means-tested bursary places, with one in 16 students receiving free education. Headmaster Geoffrey Stanford emphasised the school’s dedication to social responsibility, working collaboratively to elevate education standards: “This is wonderful news for the RGS, which demonstrates that Independent Schools can do well and do good. The foundations of our quest for excellence and sense of social responsibility are at the core of our 500-year-old history. Half a millennium later, the school continues to deliver outstanding academic results and our social values remain front and centre in everything we do. We believe in the infinite potential of children in our region – regardless of the school they attend.

Working together with our state sector colleagues to raise the attainment and aspiration of young people across the North East is of high importance to us.” rgs.newcastle.sch.uk

Supportive four-legged friends

In light of World Mental Health Day, Dame Allan’s Schools’ therapy dogs, Heidi and Poppy, are making a profound impact on students’ mental wellbeing. Heidi, a Maltichon, aids the Senior School, while Poppy, a Border Terrier, supports the Junior School. Heidi lightens up the learning support department, while Poppy attends school daily, engaging in various activities with the children, such as attending school assemblies and going on wellbeing walks.

Both dogs, besides being extremely adorable, provide emotional support during tough times. dameallans.co.uk

A very well-done

Congratulations to all students of Barnard Castle School who took part in the recent UKMT Senior Maths Challenge! Undoubtedly, this competition demands a profound understanding of intricate concepts, as incorrect answers are penalized through negative markings. Barnardians, once again, showcased their exceptional skills, securing an impressive tally of accolades. With an impressive showing of 20 Bronze, five Silver, and an outstanding Gold award, over half of the participants stand adorned with well-deserved honours. Moreover, an exceptional tribute is owed to Charlie, a standout talent from Year 12, whose exceptional achievement has earned the title of “Best in School.” Well done to all for showcasing exceptional mathematical prowess and determination! barnardcastleschool.org.uk

Inspirational guest speaker The recent visit of Jess Allen, a former student and accomplished data engineer for the Red Bull Formula 1 team, brought a sense of joy to Westfield School in Newcastle. After pursuing Physics at The University of Boston, Jess’s journey led her back to the UK, where she now serves as a crucial member of the team driving the success of renowned drivers such as Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. Her insightful discussion with the students highlighted the significance of STEM education and shed light on the impactful role she plays within the world of Formula 1. westfield.newcastle.sch.uk

NOV/DEC23

LITTLE LUXE

LUXE MAMA with Elysia Fryer Jingle all the way…

The festive season is upon us again and this year we’re lucky enough to be seeing the magic come to life, not only through an excited toddler’s eyes, but also through the eyes of a first-timer.

I remember someone telling me that if ever the magic of Christmas dwindles a little, see it through the eyes of a child.

And now, being the creator of those cherished memories for my own little

people, that piece of advice rings true.

As we start to write our lists for the man in the red suit, we’re noting down some of our finds for children of all ages, to help you on your way too. Plus, we’ve pulled out some of our favourite festive days out in the North East, and we’re chatting about those special Christmas traditions that give us that warm, fuzzy feeling. Because that’s what it’s all about!

Dazzling diary dates >>

Magical, Christmassy fun the whole family will love this festive season…

Go here for a huge range of trees from Nordmann Fir and Norway Spruce, to Blue Spruce and potted trees.

Throughout November and December croftchristmastrees.com

Elysia, George & Nora x

Creating Christmas Traditions: Danny Adams & family >>

We find out what Christmas looks like for Newcastle panto star, Danny Adams, and his young family…

Christmas traditions growing up?

We would normally go to church on Christmas Eve for a carol service, then back home to watch a Christmas film before putting our pillow case at the end of the bed. We would leave some carrots outside for Rudolf, and a little whisky for Santa, but he would normally finish the whisky, then find the bottle in the cupboard and finish that too as well as the bottle of wine!

Most memorable Christmas Day? It would have been the year we had off because of Covid. I’ve done panto every year since leaving school, so it was really strange not to be working! But at the same time, it was lovely to spend it with my family and experience the Christmas build up together. We only get Christmas Day off so usually miss all that side of it!

How does your family Christmas look?

It tends to start around 4am when my

little boy wakes up and realises Santa has been! Then it’s everyone up, Christmas songs on, bacon sandwiches cooking, bucks fizz flowing, and into the hot tub before the family come round for dinner. Then it’s a quick afternoon nap before more food, more drink, games, more food, more drinks, more food.... and so on!

Most treasured Christmas item?

Newcastle Theatre Royal Pantomime, every time!

North Yorkshire Moors Railway Santa Specials Board the Santa Express and prepare to be taken on a magical adventure with Mr Claus and his jolly helpers. Join the team of elves at either Pickering or Grosmont and get involved in a whole host of festive fun and games before a visit from the man myself. Little ones will leave with a special gift and family memories to last a lifetime.

Throughout November and December nymr.co.uk/event/santa-specials

What’s on George and Ella’s Christmas list?

George (6) wants the ENTIRE Smyths catalogue - he has literally circled everything (!). But his most wanted is a drum kit.. can’t wait for christmas morning! Ella (8 months) wants a pair of ear defenders…

Don’t miss Danny and the Newcastle panto family in Pinocchio 2023 at the Theatre Royal from 28 November 14 January 2024. theatreroyal.co.uk

Wish list >>

Our top picks for babies, tots and teens…

For tinies >>

Croft Christmas Trees Wrap up warm, grab a festive hot chocolate and take in the twinkly fairy lights as you get lost in a whimsical winter world at Croft Christmas Trees.

Cinderella: A Fairytale Round up the troops for the ultimate fairytale adventure at Northern Stage, Newcastle. This festive twist on the classic tale invites us to join Ella at the Queen’s Christmas Ball. Full of music, dance and comedy with added sparkle, this theatre extravaganza is sure to get you all in the spirit.

2 December - 6 January 2024 northernstage.co.uk

For tots >> Little Dutch Wooden Tool Workbench £120, scandiborn.co.uk

Clark & Beau Boys Red Tartan Pyjamas £39.99, clarkandbeau.co.uk

Kielder Winter Wonderland Make memories to last a lifetime at Kielder Winter Wonderland this Christmas. Kielder Forest is the perfect backdrop for a day of festive fun; from Father Christmas meetings and Santa’s Elves’ Workshop, to reindeer training, snow tubing and more, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to seasonal entertainment.

Throughout November and December kielderwinterwonderland.com

Yoto Play Yoto Player Third Generation £99.99, uk.yotoplay.com

For teens >>

The Little Green Sheep Linen Teepee and Playmat Bundle £149.90, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

NOV/DEC23

The HappySelf Junior HappySelf Journal £25.99, waterstones.com

Better Cotton Dreaming Hot Water Bottle & Eye Mask Set £35, oliverbonas.com

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HERE TO COMPETE

A legendary legacy

“It offers the opportunity to revel in the glorious history and the renewed hope of our beloved football club,” says Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves as he chats to Nicole Wood about his new book ‘Here to Compete’...

In the heart of football’s vibrant culture, the world of sport often transcends boundaries, creating a bond that unites fans and players in an unbreakable alliance.

Nowhere is this phenomenon more evident than in the passionate city of Newcastle, a city where football is not just a game but a way of life. And it’s here that one of the most recognisable voices in British sports journalism, Pete Graves, found his inspiration to pen his latest masterpiece, ‘Here to Compete’. This book is not just about a club; it’s a story of passion, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the Geordie faithful.

Pete Graves, known for his role at Sky Sports and his enduring love for Newcastle United, had a vision about four years ago that led to the creation of his footy-inspired masterpiece. As someone who had been attending games from such a young age, it was disheartening to see how many fans were giving up on the club. “I’ve always been obsessed with Newcastle United, it’s a huge part of my life. I was sort of feeling down in the dumps about the club, I knew how much potential it had and it just wasn’t getting taken advantage of, so I wanted to do something positive for the club and for the fans,” Pete begins to explain.

His inspiration came from the remarkable journeys of two of the greatest managers in Newcastle United’s history, Kevin Keegan

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and Sir Bobby Robson. Both men had taken charge of the team in its darkest hours and orchestrated remarkable transformations.

Keegan, who arrived when the club was languishing in the depths of the second division, led them to the pinnacle of English football. Robson, on the other hand, revitalised the Premier League’s lowestranked team, taking them to the Champions League.

Graves began writing about these two iconic figures, their methods, and their impact. He recalls: “I’d written about four chapters at this point and then actually stopped. I hit a bit of a brick wall and I thought I don’t know what I’m writing anymore, is this going to be long enough to be a book.” But fate had other plans, and when the takeover happened, hope began to bloom once again in the hearts of Newcastle fans.

Eddie Howe, the current Newcastle United manager, started achieving results reminiscent of Keegan and Robson’s reigns.

This resurrection of the club’s fortunes under Howe became the catalyst for Graves to revisit his writing. Pete recalls: “When the takeover first happened I thought ‘Oh well I’ll never finish now, positivity is back, it’s not needed anymore’ but then Eddie Howe came in and basically started doing the exact same thing that Bobby and Kevin had done.

He took us from the bottom of the Premier League to 11th in his first season and the following year, we finished fourth and qualified for the Champions League. So,

I decided to write about it and put it with the other stuff I had written. It then became a book about the three of them and in my opinion, the best managers that Newcastle United have had in our lifetime.”

To bring his story to life, Pete conducted interviews with the men who knew the tale best. He reached out to Kevin Keegan, a beloved figure in the history of the club. For insights into the Bobby Robson era, Graves turned to none other than the iconic Alan Shearer, whose career was reignited under Robson’s guidance. Eddie Howe, the modern saviour of the Magpies, also shared his journey. These interviews enriched the narrative, offering a perspective that only the protagonists themselves could provide.

“The book has snippets of my life, going to the matches when I was a kid, the highs and lows of being a supporter, but it’s essentially about the managers and what those three men did for our football club to make the

fans believe in it again. Newcastle seems to have this funny habit where when times are low and things are going really bad, fans are close to giving up, someone comes along and turns it all around. It happened with Kevin Keegan, with Bobby Robson and now again with Eddie Howe. And that’s what this book is all about,” he explains.

Researching the book was a labour of love for Graves. His deep-seated passion for the game meant he had the statistics and facts at his fingertips, especially regarding the Keegan and Robson eras. Eddie Howe’s time at Bournemouth, though, was a revelation for Graves. It made him appreciate Howe’s qualities and understand how perfect a match he was for Newcastle United.

“There was a lot of research and fact checking involved, but whenever I’m working on Newcastle United, I always say it’s the easiest job in the world for me. I am literally obsessed with football and have random

When the takeover first happened I thought ‘Oh well I’ll never finish now, positivity is back, it’s not needed anymore’ but then Eddie Howe came in and basically started doing the exact same thing that Bobby and Kevin had done NOV/DEC23

SPORT TALK

EXTRA TIME

with Pete Graves

Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves discusses the launch of his new book ‘Here to Compete’, Newcastle United making it to the Champions League and how he’ll be spending Christmas this year

stats buried deep within my brain that I can pull out from nowhere. If I’m not working at the game, I’ll either be in the ground watching, following closely on TV or radio or reading match reports afterwards. So, in terms of research it all came quite easy. The Kevin Keegan stuff was easy and the Bobby Robson stuff was easy. I’d say the hardest part was Eddie Howe at Bournemouth. He’s not even been at Newcastle for two years, so I had to know more about him and doing that research was such an enjoyable part of the experience. I totally and completely underestimated how brilliant of a job he did at Bournemouth, he lifted them from nothing and took them to the Premier League and I feel like it all happened under the radar.

What he did at that club was amazing. It made me respect him so much more and really resonated in me how perfect he is for the job. Newcastle United and Eddie Howe really are the perfect marriage. There’s a lot of Bobby and Kevin in Eddie Howe; he’s respectful, a great listener, he makes the players better. A good manager strengthens the team he has. Some managers just spend millions and continue to replace players who haven’t been performing the best, whereas with Eddie Howe there’s about five or six players who literally looked like they’d never played football before and he’s arrived and all of a sudden they look like absolute world-class players. It’s incredible the job he’s done,” says Pete.

“I’ve known Kevin and Alan for a long time.

There was one night driving back from the Isle of White to London where I was in the car with Kevin and his wife and we just spoke about football the whole six hours and well, that was the interview done. And it was the same with Alan, I’ve known him for years and I’ve always admired him. He was my absolute favourite player when I was a young man growing up, he’s a lovely bloke and he was great to chat to, he was definitely the right person to speak to about Bobby. It was a pleasure to speak with all three of them,” Pete adds.

Writing a book, as Pete discovered, is far from easy. It demands dedication, long nights, and the pursuit of the perfect word.

“It was a lot of hard work. Much harder than I originally thought it was going to be. As a writer, you’ll know this, but sometimes you think you’ve written loads and I would spend the night bashing away on the keyboard thinking I’ve done really well and and when I’d look, there would only be around 600 words and in the back of my mind I knew that most books were around 70,000. So yeah, it was difficult and a lot of late nights

NOV/DEC23

If I’m not working at the game, I’ll either be in the ground watching, following closely on TV or radio or reading match reports afterwards.

So, in terms of research it all came quite easy. The Kevin Keegan stuff was easy and the Bobby Robson stuff was easy but we got there in the end and I’m really pleased with it. I found by writing the book that other things in my life became easier.

Afternoons were spent thinking about language, diction and forming sentences which made presenting, reading scripts and presenting news easier. I’d say writing the book has made me a better presenter,” Pete smiles.

‘Here to Compete’ is a must-read for football fans, especially those who bleed black and white. It’s a tale of triumph over adversity, of managers who defied the odds, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Newcastle fans. And if you’re in search of the perfect Christmas gift this year, then you know exactly what to buy the NUFC lover in your life. Pete Graves has not just written a book; he’s crafted a love letter to Newcastle United, a club that has the power to rise from its darkest hours and shine again, thanks to the visionaries who guide it.

LIVING LUXE >> A lot of my time recently has been spent on my new book, ‘Here to Compete’ which came out on 26 October. The book was a challenging, yet rewarding and quite emotional project to work on. It not only discusses my lifelong love for Newcastle United, but has impactful interviews with Kevin Keegan, Alan Shearer and Eddie Howe. Following the launch, there has been quite a lot of publicity and we’ve had some incredible events to promote it, which have been great fun. On 24 November, I will be hosting a Bobby’s Boys event at Hilton Newcastle Gateshead which I’m really looking forward to. Newcastle are back in the Champions League after 20 years and the last team to get there was Bobby’s team, so we’ve got Laurent Robert flying over from France along with Olivier Bernard, Nobby Solano, Rob Lee and Shola Ameobi. It’s going to be great to get them all back together and reminisce about Bobby and that team. There’ll be a fabulous three-course dinner and then everyone can sit back and enjoy the panel where we’ll be discussing their careers, memories and what their thoughts are for the future of the club.

THE WORLD OF SPORTS >> Newcastle United being back in the Champions League has been unbelievable for the city, for me and my family! To get a point from Milan was one thing, but to beat PSG… wow! Me and my family watched the first game in our living room and when the players all lined up and the Champions League music started playing, I got a little choked up because I thought the last time this happened I was 21-years-old, now I’m 41 and I’m watching it with my children. My girls like their football, but my son is football mad and we’ve watched lots of Champions League games together, but it’s never meant this much. We’ve never watched our team in this league together. We both felt the gravity of it. It was a moment I’ll probably never forget. We were just watching on the telly but it was that look we gave each other as if to say ‘this is it, this is what we’ve been waiting for’!

CHRISTMAS WITH THE GRAVES >> Christmas is at home with the family.

We love spending Christmas in the house with our pjs on, the kids play with their new toys, we enjoy a big Christmas lunch, play some games and just chill really. That’s a perfect Christmas for me. We always spend a weekend in December at Centreparcs in Cumbria, so we’re really looking forward to that again. And then for New Year, I’m actually really excited because we’re all going skiing together. I love skiing, but it’s the first time for my wife and kids; it’s taken me 17 years to convince my wife, so I hope she loves it. I think the kids will be natural skiers - my girls are both gymnasts and are used to doing cartwheels on high beams and my son is very athletic and plays rugby, but my wife might take a little more persuading. She’s a bit of a beach demon and loves the sun, so I’m hoping I can convince her how great the cold and the snow can be.

Stay tuned and I’ll be back with the verdict in the next issue!

Ask Pete >> ‘Here to Compete’ is out now and is available to buy from Amazon and all major bookstores.

Got a question you’d like to ask Pete for the next issue?

Send us a DM @luxe_mag!

Q: Favourite thing about Eddie Howe?

A: I have a lot of time for Eddie Howe. He took time out of his schedule to speak to me for my new book which he didn’t have to do, so I have a lot of respect for him for that. In terms of his management style, he’s a match made in heaven for Newcastle. What he did at Bournemouth was incredible and then the way he’s transformed Newcastle is unbelievable.

luxe-magazine.co.uk

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MAN KIT

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Rodd & Gunn Lodestone Wool Blend Coat - Fawn £395, johnlewis.com Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood Extrait de Parfum £320, harrods.com

Loro Piana Fringed Cashmere Scarf £350, mrporter.com

Zegna City cotton-blend slim-leg trousers £585, matchesfashion.com

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FAST LANE

Driving ambition Buckle up as Jessica Chipman catches up with Robert Forrester, CEO of Vertu Motors, about all things cars, careers, and Burnley FC

If you haven’t heard of Vertu Motors, then you more than likely will have seen its logo on a rear car window. If you’re still unsure, then Vertu Motors plc. is an automotive retail giant that has been dedicated to providing an exceptional motoring experience to its customers since it was founded in 2006. One of the brains behind the organisation is Robert Forrester, who leads an outstanding team of over 7,000 colleagues to achieve this vision.

The Vertu Motors group is now the third

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luxe-magazine.co.uk

largest car retailer in the UK, operating under various brand names, including Bristol Street Motors, Vertu Motors, and Macklin Motors, boasting a network of 190 outlets spanning from Scotland to Exeter.

This diverse portfolio covers cars, vans, bikes, and a strong specialisation in the fleet and commercial vehicle sector.

Robert has shared his expertise through interviews on prominent media outlets like Sky News, This Morning, and BBC Breakfast.

Originally from Shropshire, Robert has lived in Gosforth for over 20 years. He is a passionate supporter of Burnley Football

Club, and tries to get to Turf Moor as often as he can. Robert found his love for business after leaving university, where he spent a lot of his time in the company of talented people, who later inspired him to have his own team of passionate car enthusiasts. He loves being in business, specifically in the car industry as he always feels that he’s doing something worthwhile, whilst enjoying it and making a difference to people’s lives.

In 2021, Robert featured on ITV’s Undercover Big Boss, where he disguised himself with a beard, a wig, and pretended to be a history lecturer whilst working alongside employees

at his own company to gain insight into its operations and seek-out areas for improvement.

When I ask what nudged him to do something like that, Robert doesn’t hesitate: “Bristol Street Motors is the most well known brand for car retailing in England. And we want to keep it that way. So we’re constantly working on building our brand through TV advertisments, and other promotional routes, like our British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) race team.

“This is why I did Undercover Big Boss. We thought it would be a fantastic opportunity to have a slot on prime time TV, and that it’d be a great chance to build the brand.

“I had no hesitation about doing the show, I thought it would be a good idea. They’re not trying to expose businesses, they’re just trying to make entertaining TV. I’m glad I did it, it got me out of my comfort zone to quite a large degree, which I think is always a good thing.”

After doing some background research on Robert, I learned that in a previous interview he admitted that he’s ‘perhaps known for not being very human’. I was interested to find out why he felt this way…

“Looking back, this probably isn’t entirely true. I think people would say I was exceedingly work focused, as well as having a strong family orientation.” Robert tells me.

“I am very data driven and very matter of fact. I am really quite unemotional about things, and I think this is where that claim came from. If you stick to the facts, you’re probably in a better position to get less emotional about things.

“The counterpoint to it is that we’re a people business. We employ over 7,000 people, and your ability to get on with and inspire people is actually really important. I think there are very few people that would swap and do my job if I’m honest, because my position comes with a lot of responsibility. Luckily, I quite enjoy it, because I enjoy working.

I think if you get too emotional, you worry about things too much. I try to avoid that happening because I don’t think it does any good.”

Despite his high-pressure role, Robert expresses that he has no trouble dissociating when he’s not at work. He likes to keep track of his health on his Oura Ring, and jokes that he was in a meeting not so long back, where his ring thought that he’d meditated for 45 minutes. He’s the level of zen I think we all aspire to be, right?

Besides his meditative meetings, I’m curious to find out what downtime means to Robert…

“I’ve still got one of my three children at home and I enjoy taking him to football matches as well as watching him play football.

“Besides that we’ve got a house up in Beadnell overlooking the sea that I love going to, and probably don’t do it enough.

I think we’re going to spend Christmas there, which I’m really looking forward to. Finding the time to get away for a couple of nights can be so challenging sometimes, for example last week I left home on Monday and got home on Saturday night… that tells you something!

For a man who’s always on the move, family time is of high importance to Robert. He also admitted to much preferring a hearty home cooked meal over dining out, as he loves his home comforts. However, Robert isn’t opposed to staying in hotels; his parents owned one when he was growing up, and so he is used to being in them, though he admits that home is where the heart is.

Jokingly, I asked Robert if his family get equally excited about him returning home, to which he responded: “Oh I doubt it. I think they probably enjoy the peace and quiet when I’m away.”

NOV/DEC23

FAST LANE

Back in 2006, he and a couple of others set out to create a new company in the retail car business. Fast forward almost 17 years, and Vertu Motors has now become the third largest car retailer in the country He laughs.

“My ideal weekend would go something like this: first off I’d go to the gym, then I’d like to go for a coffee, ideally with my wife, followed by cooking some lunch for the whole family.

Then, I’d like to watch a football match.”

Preferably Burnley? I interject, “Definitely Burnley, I wouldn’t watch anything else.”

When it comes to achievements, Robert certainly isn’t short of a few. Back in 2006, he and a couple of others set out to create a new company in the retail car business.

Fast forward almost 17 years, and Vertu Motors has now become the third largest car retailer in the country, and will sell over 200,000 vehicles this year. Employing 500 people in Gateshead, they have earned themselves the reputation as a major employer in the North East.

Bristol Street Motors sponsor Newcastle Theatre Royal and the Vertu Motors retail brand has a strong partnership with Newcastle Eagles, the most successful club in British basketball. The Eagles’ home is the Vertu Motors Arena, which has a 3,500 capacity. Robert is proud to be part of such a prominent name within the local community, and the group is passionate about providing

NOV/DEC23

opportunity and access to sport for those who need it most.

I couldn’t help but ask Robert what interested him the most about the motor industry. I assumed his love of cars came from growing up watching F1, or that perhaps his father also had a love of cars. Suffice to say I was surprised to learn that Robert in fact has no interest in cars!

“I’m not interested in cars. I’m interested in the car business, and having been in it for over 20 years, I think the car business is absolutely fascinating. People are often shocked to learn that actually driving and cars is not a massive interest to me.”

Robert goes on to explain that this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as Vertu represents over 34 manufacturers, so having a favourite might be bad for business.

“In saying that,” he continues...

“We’ve got the Ferrari franchise now, and I went to their factory in Maranello this summer with my youngest daughter who just turned 19, and actually, it was fantastic, especially seeing the Formula One cars on the racetrack.

“All car factories are pretty impressive places if I’m honest, but the way Ferrari go about their business is quite exceptional. It’s what

makes them a luxury brand.”

Our conversation shifted towards a reflection on Robert’s career so far, he admits that if he had the opportunity to turn back the clock, he would focus more heavily on people skills, as opposed to technical skills.

“Don’t worry about things because they will pass.” He tells me.

“I think people have a tendency to worry about minor things, and when that goes away they find something else to worry about. I think we tend to worry about things that never actually happen.

“My advice to anyone would be instead of worrying about the future, just be present in the moment and enjoy it, because that’s broadly all you’ve got. The past has gone and you don’t know what the future’s going to hold, so just make sure you focus on today.”

I couldn’t have put this better myself, and what a perfect way to draw our conversation to a close. I just have time to slip one more question in, as I begin to wonder what Robert’s plans are for the future.

“We’ve just opened a new Vauxhall dealership in Westerhope, and we’re about to open a major new dealership for Ford on Scotswood Road just before Christmas.

“Then there’s the £365 million Co-op Live project next to the Etihad in Manchester Co-op Live will be a 23,500 capacity music-first arena. It opens in April next year and is really important in terms of promoting the Bristol Street Motors brand.

The entire atrium area will be known as ‘The Street’, which will be a fantastic space for fans to gather and feel part of a community, whilst enjoying the food and drink venues before and after a show.”

It’s simply amazing to see how Robert stands as the driving force behind an automotive retail powerhouse that consistently delivers an exceptional experience to its customers.

Although if given the chance to turn back time Robert would choose to work more on his people skills, I found him an excellent conversationalist, a driven business owner and a compassionate person overall.

As for his company, I expect nothing but growing success for Vertu Motors, as they continue to be an inspiring testament to the power of dedication, vision, and the enduring pursuit of excellence in the automotive industry and beyond. vertumotors.com

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MIGHTY MOTORS

AT THE WHEEL

with Bob Arora

As seen in James Bond Bob Arora takes the BMW i7 for a spin As kids, whenever family members decided to visit us up North it was a very big deal for my younger brother and myself.

Trying to get family to leave London was like asking them to get on a flight to Australia!

The highlight would always be seeing which cars my uncles would drive up in. My parents had a Ford Cortina Estate which was ideal for their needs but wasn’t exactly very flashy!

One time, my uncle came up North to see us as he’d been to an exhibition in Harrogate.

He drove the hour-and-a-half journey to see us, and, as we waited by the window to see him, he finally arrived in a brand new metallic gold S-Class Mercedes. I could not contain my excitement at the sight of this beautiful car.

My uncle stayed for a few hours and then decided to go back to London. At that time there was no sat nav, so my father drove my uncle to the A1 so that he’d have a straight run back home.

My brother and I decided to sit in the Mercedes. The key went on the dash to start the car, I’m sure the seats were the softest Velvet known to man, and the alloys looked unreal compared to most cars’ wheel trims.

The other thing that stood out in my mind was the windscreen wiper, it was just so huge and it had a funny action when it cleaned the screen. I know it’s an odd thing to remember, but it really stuck in my mind!

Those few minutes in that car left a lasting impression. I’m sure most S-Class drivers take its technology and gadgets for granted, and, with that in mind, it can’t be easy for any manufacturer to try and

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compete with this amazing car.

That said, BMW has decided to try and take the throne away from Mercedes with their latest 7 series. The 7 has starred in a James Bond movie, which has almost certainly helped with exposure and sales, but unfortunately for BMW, the S-Class has always been the car of choice for most executives.

Having spent a few days in this latest i7 though, I think Mercedes have definitely got a fight on their hands this time.

I’ve been driving the all-electric i7, and the first thing you’ll notice is the huge kidney grills at the front. When you open the car they are illuminated so there’s no chance of missing them at all. The front lights are split to help give the car a sporty feel, but the swathes of chrome aren’t to my taste I would have preferred the grill and all the chrome to be black so it’s not so in your face.

The entry-level i7 is the eDrive50 which produces 449bhp. The car I drove was the 60 which produces 537bhp and the range topping 70 produces 650bhp.

Despite the weight of the car, it’s certainly no slouch - 60mph is reached in just over 4 seconds. The car’s top speed is limited to 155mph and BMW are claiming a range of around 360-388 miles. Having owned an electric car I know that the cold weather and using the air con has a massive effect on this. That said the car can be charged in 10 minutes using a supercharger and that’ll give you over 100 miles of range.

As you’d expect, the dashboard oozes quality. The materials and switchgear all scream high-end. BMW has used a crystal

design along the dash and the drive controller. The colour behind this crystal strip can be changed and a highlight for me was when you put the hazard lights on, as it flashes red before eventually reverting back to its original colour.

The i7’s party trick for me was actually in the back of the car, with its optional reclining and massaging seats. The seat behind the passenger seat becomes a reclining seat a bit like you’d find on a first-class flight.

A 31-inch screen folds down for you to watch TV via an Amazon Fire Stick. As much as I loved driving this car, I feel it’s more suited to someone who has a chauffeur so you can really enjoy the car and its features. Being able to watch TV while you’re on the move would make the longest journey extremely stress-free and enjoyable.

When the screen folds down the car’s blinds go up and you honestly feel like you’re at

the cinema! The sound comes through the seats which is a bit difficult to explain but you seriously forget you are in a car. The 36 Bowers & Wilkins speakers pump out nearly 2,000 watts, and when you are watching a high-action film it’s better than being in a cinema.

The car is priced from £107,000, although once you add the rear screen, massaging seats and upgraded alloys, the price soon jumps up to over £120,000.

This car is definitely a driver’s car although I’m sure most owners will actually want to sit in the back and enjoy the full massaging seats along with the cinema experience.

If you are in the market for an executive car, I’d recommend an appointment with Aidan at Vertu BMW in Boldon who is extremely knowledgeable about the tech on this car.

Car courtesy of Vertu BMW Boldon

Scan the QR code to watch Bob’s BMW i7 video review NOV/DEC23

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TIMELESS ACCESSORY

A WATCHFUL EYE

with Josh Sims Our new Luxe columnist and watch expert, Josh Sims, delves into whether or not the weight of a watch defines its value…

Jean-Paul Suchel, the technical director of Bell & Ross, spends a lot of time studying people choosing a watch. And what strikes him every time is the way they often cup a selection in their palm.

“They stand there in the shop and they weigh the watch in their hand,” he says.

“The fact is that watches are part of the jewellery world, and with jewellery there’s a direct correlation between weight and value, because of the historic use of precious metals. That’s only helped to solidify the association between heft and quality. A watch may be a small piece of material really, and yet prices are quite high, so unconsciously people feel if there’s no real weight to a watch, then there’s no value.”

That’s a conundrum for the watch world, especially as lighter weight materials such as the likes of titanium, ceramic, and latterly the more experimental likes of silicon nitride and carbon composites are embraced by the watch industry, if often for qualities such as scratch-resistance and durability. Panerai has its Carbotech, IWC its use of boron carbide, also an extremely lightweight material; Roger Dubuis and others have explored cases in silicon, others using silicon for the balance spring or hairspring.

Silicon is half the weight of titanium.

Indeed, much as aluminium has entered the mainstream for chassis design in the car industry, thanks to the pioneering work of Jaguar and Audi, titanium looks to be on the brink of entering the mainstream in watchmaking, not least because it’s now only around 15% more expensive than steel.

And yet there are still more steel watches on the market. The demand for weightiness for a sense of presence on the wrist, if not actually for something that feels too heavy - is why steel is still the industry’s go-to material, reckons Zenith’s product development director Romain Marietta; aside from the fact that it’s easy to work and has appealing light-reflecting qualities.

Add in that milling out excess steel is feasible but expensive, and it’s no wonder many, maybe even most, watches are heavier than they strictly-speaking need to be. In other industries, it’s been known for weights to be added to products.

“The fact is that what’s on your wrist is about feeling, a sensitivity to its weight, so weight is important,” he says.

“But it’s another thing to say that you always want to aim for a lack of weight because if a watch is too light it can seem a bit cheap.

That means you’ve got to re-educate the customer to get beyond that idea - and that isn’t easy.”

That hasn’t stopped the industry from trying.

Certainly, having binged on outsized pieces, it has recently strived to lose a few grammes, even if the motivation to do so may not be entirely a matter of ergonomics of course as Marietta notes, “sometimes it’s just a demonstration of innovation, of technical competence for the brand at large”. And, often now, the more technically advanced the watch, the lighter it will be - as with bicycles, cars, sports equipment and so on.

But means of achieving a lighter watch bring mixed results. Certainly skeletonising a

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more those expectations were disrupted, the more their value judgement was affected.

Other studies - based around perceptions of bottles of wine - have shown that consumers expect heavier bottles to be more expensive and better quality. So is our perception of weight in watches changing?

“I think that association between weight and quality is changing,” insists Vivian Stauffer, the CEO of Hamilton, which, though at a more accessible price level has still used titanium and aluminium in its pieces, and which is currently working on a project with Smartflyer, an electric-powered aircraft concept from which the watch brand hopes to glean some insight into the use of super-lightweight, carbon-based materials.

“The trend for smaller watches over the last decade has seen people get used to a little less weight on their wrists - simply because there’s less material in the watch - and high prestige brands’ experimentations with lightweight materials have also seeded the idea that lack of weight doesn’t mean lack of quality,” he adds.

“And I think weight will become more important as sustainability becomes more part of the discussion around watches when materials become more highly valued for their environmentally-friendly qualities.

Give it a generation or two and it’s a heavy watch that might be associated with excess, with inefficiency and cheapness.”

Often now, the more technically advanced the watch, the lighter it will be - as with bicycles and cars movement - another trend right now - looks impressive but doesn’t save much weight, maybe 15g, reckons Suchel. In fact, the best way to reduce weight in a movement is to make it hand-wound, he points out, “but the market generally doesn’t want that now”.

So that leaves the watch’s superstructure - case and bracelet - as inevitably the focus for weight reduction; and perhaps, subliminally, shaving off some weight lies behind the trend of late, putting bracelet-based watches on to NATO straps.

After all, studies have shown that in many categories of purchase, weight has a small but statistical influence on consumer estimations of value and quality. A seminal study in 2007 by the University of Bangor, in the UK, found that the assessment was largely subliminal and very subtle but no less very real: reduce an empty container by 15% and consumers typically valued its contents at the same as at the original weight; reduce it by 30% however, and suddenly those consumers wanted to pay less for it. Given the choice between a lightweight container and a very lightweight one, consumers are more likely to choose the heavier of the two.

But what was more revelatory still was the fact that expectations mattered: consumers’ notion of the perceived value was shaped by how much the product matched their expectations of what it would weigh. The

NOV/DEC23

SOCIAL LIFE In association with

luxe:looks

NEWCASTLE GATESHEAD

Break out the fizz. Time to get down to some people-spotting as we bring you our social snapshot of happenings across the North East. Eyes and teeth time!

Entrepreneurial Awards, Hilton Newcastle Gateshead Hotel

James Robson MBE, Elizabeth Robson, Ammar Mirza CBE

Hannah Gray, Nagma Ebanks-Beni, Clare French and Laura Joicey

Fenwick Family Fundraiser in aid of Street Zero, Arthurs Newcastle

Helen Cadzow Angela Charlton and Sophie Dorner Mark and Leo Fenwick Claire Knox, Carmel Wade, John McGonigle, Andy Hayes, Gemma Shiel, Neil Munslow and Leo Fenwick

Daniel Wade, Alice Hall, Sir Graham Wylie CBE, Ben Ridgway, Dale Smith Sophia Donachie, Neil Donachie

Andrew Gifford, Ian Hunter and Tom Hunter

Sir Graham Wylie CBE

Katherine Cockburn, Andrea Wylie, Heather Vaulkhard and Claire Barber

Imran Anwar, Aman Chahal, Russell Mills, Suhail Aslam, Ruth Plater

Lisa Charles Jone, Mark Fenwick and Bailey Charles Jones Ivan Hollingsworth Emma McDonald, Bill Scott OBE, Jessica Williams Kate and John McCabe

Tenuta di Biserno Wine Dinner, Matfen Hall

James Bell and Elaine Wilson

Lisa andSteve Mcgeary Kim and Paul Makepeace

NOV/DEC23

Sarah and Craig Scorer Niccolò Marzichi Lenzi

Katy and Dennis Boughey

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SOCIAL LIFE In association with

Feeding Families Charity Gala Dinner, Grand Hotel Gosforth

NEWCASTLE GATESHEAD

Pete Graves book launch, Tyne Theatre Newcastle

Pete Graves, Will Graves, Kevin Keegan, Poppy Graves, Sue Graves, Steph Graves, Ian Graves

Emma Temple, Chantelle Clark, Kevin Keegan, Andy Temple, Luke Leddy

Liam Dutton, Kevin Keegan, Lee Gibbons

Pete Graves, Forhad Miah Beg, Kevin Keegan, Titu Ahad

Emily Pratt, Andrea Coates, Sarah McPhie, Helen Costello

Peter McGarrell, Marie McGarrell, Jamie Remmer, Julie Remmer, Niall Crosby, Julie Edwards, Jen Dougdale , Ian Dougdale

Jordan Gibbinson, Natalie Bell, Rachel Jane Lister, Richie Atkinson

Maddie Barrass, Ruth Statt, Maddie Kelly, Sarah Moore, Stephanie Adams (Back row) Nathaniel Bradley, Andrew Hall, David Woodland

Kerry Walker, Erin Crow, Michael Walker, Lee Redshaw, Juliet Sanders, Neil McGuiness, Sakis, Gareth Malcolm, Fiona Malcolm

Lindsey Porter, Michelle Fortune, Ian Johnson, Laura Johnson, Scott Martin, Andrea Charlton. Jennifer Wilson. Stacey Close, Philip Pollard, Lesley Dowell

Vahid Walker, Kevin Keegan, Ashleigh Walker

Alan Shearer Foundation Golf Day, Close House Oyster Festival, Hardwick Hall

Peter Davidson, Neil Temple, Paul Holliday and Alan Shearer

John Adamson, Marian Adamson, Helen Roseberry Rick Astley and Jonathan Woodliffe

Lee Westwood, Sir Graham Wylie, Alan Shearer, Rob Armstrong and Jonathan Lupton

Alan Findlay and Anna Moskal

Suzanne Adamson, Rick Astley, Philippa le Boutillier, Lisa Ramshaw Alan Shearer

David McDonald

Olivia, Liz and Nigel Austick

Wendall Henry and John Adamson

80 luxe-magazine.co.uk

Barbie and George Williams

Credit: Grange Photography

Kevin Hutchinson, James Walmsley, Alan Shearer, David McDonald and Dan Potter

Ian Henderson, John Carver, Barry Whelan, Ian Dummett and Alan Shearer

NOV/DEC23

SOCIAL LIFE

Luxe Supper Club, Hilton Newcastle Gateshead Hotel

Maxine Fox, Lynn Proud and Jonathan Leonard

Claire Fenwick, Nicole Wood and Casey Lane

Kids Out, Hilton Newcastle Gateshead Hotel Excitement was in the air with Newcastle being chosen as the city to host the next Kids Out charity dinner. With 400 esteemed guests, the Hilton emerged as the shining star. Its central location and ample room space perfectly catered to the event’s grand scale. Not only did it accommodate the dinner flawlessly, but it also graciously provided comfortable lodging for those planning an overnight stay.

Aside from its impressive facilities, the Hilton’s impeccable service stole the show. Jemma, Lynn, and their dedicated team went above and beyond, ensuring a seamless experience from the event’s planning stages to its execution. Their attentive guidance and wealth of expertise made all the difference, leaving guests in awe.

The Hilton Hotel, located in the heart of Gateshead, embodies modern sophistication and a vibrant atmosphere. With a team eager to assist at every turn, this venue delivered an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Barbara Spooner, Dr Oswaldo Lorzeno and Helen Cadzow Jonathan Leonard

Mark Addis and George Jenkins

Sara Williams, Alistair McDonald, Catherine Williams, Graeme Blenkinsopp, Louise Blenkinsopp

Peter Grimsey, Melanie Low, Sandra Doherty, Sam Johnson, Sara Williams, Alex Batchelor, Maggie Moulds and Stewart Moulds

Nick Winney, Sarah Way and Stephen Carrick

Louise Blenkinsopp and Emma Jones

Olivia MacGill

Susan Beck

Lucy Randall, Lucy Baxter, John Hesheth, Eleanor Thurlbeck, Dlyanslie Gupta and Colette Monahan

Lesley Faircluff and Andrew Oxenham

Nicola Crowther and Steve Colman

Dave and Jan Yates, Justin and Jane Herbert Abbey Blenkinsopp and Liam Simpson

Have a Heart golf day, Close House and Have a Heart gala dinner, Hilton Newcastle Gateshead Hotel

Credit: Terry Blackburn

Suzane Doggett, Lauren Hearfield, Clare Balding, Katherine Wilkins

Andrew Harrison, Rick Shiels, Nicola Ford, Gary Ford

Alexander Millar and Jo Stockdale

Les Ferdinand

Jeremy Kyle, Sally Hinton, Alex Dixon, Rob Armstrong

Helen and Lee Westwood

Semore Kurdi, Elosie Quale, Ian Payne, Jonathan Edwards

Jill Halfpenny Let’s see you! If you would like your event featured on our Luxe:Looks pages please supply images with full captions (We Transfer or Dropbox is best) to: nicole@allies-group.com

NOV/DEC23

Rosie Ramsey and Si King

Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden

luxe-magazine.co.uk

81

PARTING SHOT

Berry good >> Finding hints of colour in the darker months. By Nicky Gibson at kgphotography.co.uk

82 luxe-magazine.co.uk

NOV/DEC23

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