Juniper Journal by Samantha Goodwin

Juniper

Editors letter It’s hard to put into words a project I’ve been creating, editing and evolving with for nearly a year. As my London College of Fashion course tutor proudly proclaimed during class, I am indeed ‘conceiving’ this final major project magazine, that this is ‘my baby’ – and boy, was it a messy birth. This experience, same as I’ve heard about birth, was painful, emotional and 100% enlightening. But here it is, look what I have made, with only you dear reader in mind. Juniper Journal wouldn’t have been possible without the help and belief of its worldly contributors, good friends and my beloved family. We had the awesome opportunity to interview Swedish fashion illustrator Liselotte Watkins, (my personal favourite illustrator in the whole wide world and now yours) which can be read on page 12. Explore the pages of Juniper’s first fashion shoot, amazingly shot by photographer Anai Bharucha. A fond day for all involved, capturing the mesmerising designs created by fashion designer Hannah Podbury.

Juniper Journal aims to present to you the most creative and hardworking individuals we know. While offering mindful information for taking care of number one, mentally and physically, because we all deserve to be the best we can possibly be. Thank you everyone with all my heart, enjoy this journal,

Samantha Goodwin Editor in Chief P.s. Our website is officially live! Take a look for creative news and collaborations every week. Also for all creatives, submit your work via our email for a chance to be featured in our online exhibition space.

www.juniperjournal.com [twitter / IG / fb] @juniperjournal

Photo by Anai Bharucha

Outtake: Spot the editor... Arranging a plant is v. important.

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Writers

Rhiannon Derbyshire Freelance Writer / Fashion Assistant, London UCA Epsom: BA Fashion Journalism graduate rhiannonnotsharon.com @rheeahnnon Top tip: “Berocca, full-fat coke, salt & vinegar crisps, mashed potatoes, sunglasses, and Ryan Gosling films – the hangover cure to beat ‘em all.”

Samantha Goodwin Writer / Editor, Manchester London College of Fashion: BA Fashion Journalism (Print) samanthalg.tumblr.com Top tip: “Go to gigs.”

Anai Bharucha London College of Fashion, Fashion Photography anaibharucha.com @anai014 Top tip: “Eat lots of pancakes and always smile at the nice musicians in tube stations”

Sopheea Designer / Illustrator / Photographer, Australia sopheea.com @sopheea IG: sopheeathelittledeer Top tip: “Focus on the things you love.”

Photographers

Illustrators

Fiona Gourlay Fashion Illustrator, Glasgow London College of Fashion: Fashion Illustration fionagourlay.4ormat.com/ fionagourlay.tumblr.com Top tip: “You can’t be everyones cup of tea.”

Auf Wiedersehen Bachelor of Creative Arts Industries at Victoria University, Melbourne aufwiedersehen.com.au hello@aufwiedersehen.com.au IG: ohaufwiedersehen FB: /aufwiedersehenillustrated Top tip: “Find a way to just be nice to people, every day. There’s no harm in it, and it makes you feel good too.”

Jem Magbanua BA Fine Art, Singapore cargocollective.com/jemmagbanua Top tip: “Leave the door open for the unknown.”

Stephanie Bain Freelance Fashion Writer & Illustrator, York Heriot-Watt University: BA Fashion Communication graduate stephaniebain.tumblr.com @_stephanie_bain Top tip: “Do what makes you happy.”

Maisie Noble Fashion Illustrator University of the Arts graduate, London maisienoble.co.uk studio@maisienoble.co.uk Top tip: “Be passionate about every single thing you do, enthusiasm is infectious.”

Lucy Atkinson Freelance Illustrator University College Falmouth: Illustration graduate lucyatkinsonillustration.co.uk Top tip: “Always leave room for cake!”

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Q&A... With the amazing fashion illustrator, Liselotte Watkins. Page: 12 5th Element... Juniper Journals first fashion editorial. Page: 18 From graduation to employment... In just five days, Hannah Podbury shares her success. Page: 32 Sarah Jane... Accessories shoot. Page: 36 Mai Theory... An exclusive interview with the ladies behind the London based statement jewellery brand. Page: 44

M Winter Blues... A guide to Seasonal Affective Disorder with help from Holland & Barrett. Page: 52 Which personality do you have? We uncover whether your personality â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;typeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; may be holding you back in the workplace. Page: 58 Depression... What you need to know. Page: 64

L TURE

photos by Samantha Goodwin, Sulake

Alice Amelia... The upcoming singer songwriter herself gives us the inside scoop on her self-released EP. Page: 72 Keep it 300%... A playlist for being awesome. Page: 76 Insta Profile... Actual photographer & Instagram user Sopheea, shares with us her wonderful images. Page: 78 Aunty Ranty... Meet Juniper’s in-house columnist. This issue Rhiannon takes us down memory lane, think ‘top eights’, emo-core lyrics and ‘Bobba’. Page: 84

Working on my fitness... After losing 80lbs in her home, Natasha tells us the secret how... Page: 92

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Hydration... Water really is better. Page: 96

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Hair Talk... Mary-Kate & Ashley, ‘nuff said. Page: 102 Mood Boosting Scents... We analyse the notes so you don’t have to. Page: 106

In conversation with… Interviews with fictional characters we wish were real as voted by you. Page: 110

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photo by samantha goodwin

juniperjournal.com

Juniper I

Editor in Chief Samantha Goodwin @juniperjournal Art Director Samantha Goodwin Photographers Anai Bharucha, Samantha Goodwin, Sopheea Illustrators Fiona Gourlay, Auf Wiedersehen, Maisie Noble, Jem Magbanua, Stephanie Bain, Lucy Atkinson Regular Writer Rhiannon Derbyshire Words by Samantha Goodwin, unless otherwise stated. All artwork used are credited to the owner. juniperjournal.com Online editor Samantha Goodwin

C o v er b y A u f W iedersehen

Video editor Samantha Goodwin www.juniperjournal.com contact@juniperjournal.com Copyright ÂŠ All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without permission from the editor. The views expressed in Juniper Journal are those of the respective contributors and are not necessarily shared by any brands or companies mentioned.

fashion

photo by samantha goodwin

Liselotte Watkins What do Elle magazine and Miu Miu have in common? Other than immense taste, meet fashion illustrator, Liselotte Watkins.

Illustrations by Liselotte Watkins / Words by Samantha Goodwin

Born in Nyköping, Sweden, Liselotte Watkins moved to New York after finishing art school to launch her career as a fashion illustrator. Landing the prestigious job of illustrating Barney’s make-up, advertised every Sunday in The New York Times, her work was promptly propelled into the fashion world’s psyche. Having worked with Miu Miu, Anna Sui, H&M, Vogue, and Elle just to name a few, Liselotte is also a highly sought-after set designer and stylist now living in Milan. With her flawless technique, Liselotte is constantly drawing and creating, and then drawing some more. Taking inspiration from her surroundings where ever she may be, her unique, creative eye produces the utmost magicallysurreal yet feminine illustrations, ever. We love her. Read our email interview from London to Milan with this fantastic woman, on 16 metre fresco’s in Paris, not fearing change and the colour pink…

What does fashion illustration mean to you? Fashion has always been very important to me. And illustration is my tool of expressing things. I never had a real job. This is what I do and have always done. It is my life and sometimes it makes me very happy and sometimes it is tough and frustrating. Who has inspired your fashion illustration style? When I was young art deco inspired me a lot. Aubrey Beardsley, Tamara de Lempicka but also Cecil Beaton and Antonio Lopez. Today I am more inspired by photography. Which do you prefer: simple lines and minimalism or colourful and textural? Oh that is an impossible choice to make. It is pretty much whatever mood I am in that day. Sometimes you feel minimalistic and sometimes colourful. I like them both equally much. Where would you like to see your illustrations be used in the future? How important is to incorporate illustration beyond the pages? I do not really have that kind of plan. Or think of my career in that way. I often make up my own projects to make room for new drawings. My problem is that I work and produce almost too much. There are so many illustrations to be made. I really want to make more big things. I just did a 16 metre fresco for the Water Bar at Colette in Paris and that was amazing. I made like 400 new images.

“To not evolve. That is super scary.” How do your Swedish roots influence your personal and illustration style? Also, how might have your expansive travels also influenced you?

Illustrations by Liselotte Watkins, Words by Samantha Goodwin

Heritage and to constantly experience new places and aesthetics is very important. Even if it might not inspire you immediately it will all be in there and sometimes come out. My style I feel is very Swedish and very 70s. I love the colours and lines of the 70s. And especially the graphics of Sweden at that time.

Although you get to do what you love every day, what are your tips on calming the mind for example, before you sleep? (Sometimes I myself can’t ‘switch off’ from being creative so much so I can’t sleep! That and I’m a night owl.) I think you should enjoy not being able to switch off. I like lying thinking about things before I sleep. For me it is not a stress factor. Think of it as meditation instead. The best is of course to instead read a good book.

What are your current obsessions/inspirations/loves at the moment?

What does your desk/pin-board currently look like and why?

Oh so many. Sicily, wood, Picasso’s ceramics, South African ceramics, jeans, the colour pink....

It is quite a mess. A lot of inspiration images that I used for the fresco is still up and I need to rearrange now. New times, new projects. You’ve been illustrating now for many years, how do you continue to motivate yourself in all areas of your life? I really don’t know. It is just so much fun. Can you reveal what projects you might currently be working on or their inspirations? I am working on a personal project with the connection of Sicily and the part of Sweden called Dalarna. The traditional clothing is quite similar and the folk art also. What is the ‘secret’ behind not fearing change? How can you fear change. I love to feel changes coming. It means that I am heading somewhere. What I fear is to not change. To remain the same. To not evolve. That is super scary.

liselottewatkins.com IG: liselottewatkins

Fifth Element Photography: Anai Bharucha MUA & Hair: Lien Vy Model: Sophie B @ Leniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Model Management Stylist: Samantha Goodwin Designer: Hannah Podbury Art Direction: Samantha Goodwin & Anai Bharucha

Sophie B wears Hannah Podbury Designs

Sophie B wears metallic dress by cos

Sophie B wears: white Dress with mesh Sleeve zara

Illustration by Stephanie Bain

www.juniperjournal.com @juniperjournal fb: /juniperjournal IG: /juniperjournal contact at juniperjournal.com

Photo by Anai Bharucha, wORDS BY sAMANTHA gOODWIN

Hannah Podbury Fashion grad to Harvey Nichols in five days Taking a job that isn’t the ‘exact’ one you studied for is very common, as 2013 graduate Hannah Podbury knows all too well. For those who have just graduated or are about to, Hannah shares her story with us about what Graduate Fashion Week meant to her, and how she went from Fashion Design Textiles graduate to Harvey Nichols Fashion Writer in just five days.

A University of Northampton graduate, Hannah spent university life bound by sewing rooms and snowed under mountains of material, all in preparation for her final collection. “I loved every moment of studying and despite thinking it was incredibly stressful at the time, I look back now and realise it wasn’t so hard,” says Hannah. While incredibly stressful, her course felt more like a hobby simply because of her love for designing. However the full time creative studies commitment, including much more than just your typical library session plus the extra toil of working outside of university hours, all has to be carefully managed. “I’m very self-motivated but of course there have been times where I’ve wanted to give up. To keep myself on track I just used to tell myself that every great thing is worth waiting for, and as long as I try hard I know I’ll get it.” Leading up to her end of year fashion show at the annual Graduate Fashion Week event, this was Hannah’s main opportunity to showcase her six piece fashion collection to the press and potential employers.

“Having an incredible collection is great, but what’s the point if no one will ever see it?”

“Any sort of exposure as a graduate is crucial,” Hannah says. “We’re all unknown and just starting out. Even if you’re not picked up on at the time, there’s still a chance people will seek you out in later years,” just as we at Juniper spotted her collection one year ago. GFW, the charity organisation founded in 1991, provides thousands of UK and international grads the chance to bridge the gap between graduation and employment. “Just having the experience to talk to other people in the industry was amazing. We’d spent three years of uni holed up in pattern cutting/ sewing rooms, and I hadn’t given an awful lot of thought about getting my name out there,” she admits. Self-promotion is something Hannah wishes she was taught more about during her university course. “Having an incredible collection is great, but what’s the point if no one will ever see it?” Having helped launch the career of none other than Burberry’s Christopher Bailey, Stella McCartney, Giles Deacon and Matthew Williamson, GFW is an extremely important stepping stone for fashion design graduates. Influenced by a trip to Japan, “I wanted the collection to reflect a theme of precision, longevity and patience, themes I find reflected within both traditional and modern Japanese architecture,” reveals Hannah. Many months of research, technique development, colour palette and materials, were all part of the process when defining her collection. Continuously evolving and experimenting with different fabric sources finally helped the process to take hold. Favouring a minimal aesthetic from established designers such as Maison Martin Margiela and Alexander Wang, from start to finish it was important for Hannah to keep experimenting. “As a designer, overthinking can spoil the creative process. Try not to think too much. As you relax and eventually push yourself, it’ll develop into something amazing”.

Drawing inspiration from texture, form and light from architects such as Tadao Ando and Sou Fujimoto also helped fuel its direction. Tubularcrin was the key material used. To non Cybergoth’s this is typically used for ‘cyberlox falls’, or hair extensions to you and me. Manipulating through dying, twisting and even knitting this tube like material is true testament to Hannah’s skill and creativity. Juxtaposing oversized forms and structures in contrast with other materials, such as silk devore fabric, with embellished handmade knitted square detailing is what made the collection so content. “The last six months I fantasised about taking a whole summer off to relax, unwind and spent time doing absolutely nothing!” Hannah told us. Dreaming of a post-grad summer of relaxation, returning from the airport after a celebratory holiday she received a call from Harvey Nichols, offering her a job as their fashion writer. This, the very first of many jobs she had applied to, “two days later I started work, so much for relaxation!” With a burning desire to become a full-time designer, Hannah’s grateful for the eye-opener her six months at Harvey Nichols has taught her so far; experience that just can’t be taught at university. Being involved in various sides of the fashion industry offers invaluable experience she can implement to help her talent succeed further. “One day I do dream of having my own small fashion label though. But not for a long while yet.”

images by WGSN

Graduate Fashion Week offers creatives around the UK, and internationally, the best opportunity starting block for much needed exposure and acknowledgement. Which for designers like Hannah Podbury, it’s so well deserved.

Sarah Jane Incorporate more headwear into your daily look as shown by Sarah Jane.

Photography: Samantha Goodwin Model: Sarah Jane Goodwin

Mai Theory When meeting Mai Theory sat in the Joe and Juice bar, just round the corner from London College of Fashion’s Oxford Street campus, they looked just like any other students getting their blitzed-fruit fix. That’s because they are, but unknown to those sat around, they’re the minds and hands behind statement jewellery brand Mai Theory. One half Hungarian co-founder Sylwia, the other, the designer Mai from Thailand, they’re complete opposites in terms of style and aesthetics. However this is what makes the Mai Theory brand so strong and work beautifully. Already making press in Hungary, they’re about to take on London in a big way...

PhotoS by Yulia Tsezar, wORDS BY SAMANTHA GOODWIN

“The ethos behind Mai Theory is that we’re creating something new out of different materials.” says brand co-founder Sylwia. “We like to take our pieces out of context, contrasting old and new handmade techniques”. The brand name, Mai meaning ‘new’ when translated, demonstrates their whole new theory for design. Having both met on a London College of Fashion Foundation course, in true university style, they first worked together in a group-project photoshoot. As Mai, now studying Styling and Photography at LCF, demonstrated her styling skills was when Sylwia first realised they couldn’t be more opposite. She says, “I just remember Mai rocking up to my place with everything you could imagine to style the shoot,” as Mai’s aesthetic is predominantly ‘more is more’. “At first I was like fuck, I don’t know how this’ll turn out, her ideas were just so brave. But once the models were dressed I was just like wow, she knows what she’s doing.” Visually embodying her personal aesthetic on a daily basis, Mai made an audience for herself just by wearing her handmade necklaces to class, which caught Sylwia’s attention. Working together more, they soon became friends and over one too many cocktails, they dreamed of starting their own jewellery brand together, but always after university. Starting your own brand can appear intimidating, however

for Sylwia and Mai the drive, talent and skills were all there. It was just something they’ll definitely maybe do, later. As Sylwia now studies Advertising at London College of Communication, after an encouraging lecture by her course tutor Bruno Ceschel, it was the final motivating push for the pairs brand endeavour.

“If you have an idea do it now, you’ve nothing to lose” “It was so inspiring. I’ll always remember, ‘if you have an idea, do it now, you’ve nothing to lose’. ‘Do it now’ is what stuck with me most.” she says. “I just felt like now was the time to act so I rushed over to Mai’s flat straight away”. After talking it out (sensibly, minus cocktails) they agreed to go for it, and so Mai Theory was founded. Creating pieces for those “who see art in our jewellery,” Sylwia adds, “our mission is to make jewellery we would both want to wear”. These are pieces you won’t see on every woman like most retail accessories and they sure won’t taint over time either. Made for customers who enjoy owning handmade, bespoke products, there’s something for everyone. Especially for those

who enjoy falling in love with a product that they just have to have. Taking one look at Mai Theory’s newly launched website, it can do that to a girl. Their debut SS14 collection, ‘India Calling’, consists of handmade necklaces and bracelets, some one of a kind. On Mai’s way to Thailand, a pit stop in India was the key source of inspiration as New Delhi’s vibrant spice markets and textures ignited her creative process. With so much to muse, it was the Indian Sweets that captivated Mai and not just because they’re so delicious. Fascinated by their intricate detailing and layered textures within such a simple, yet edible product resonated with Mai and her own craft. Naming each collection piece after the Indian sweet it was inspired by, they each embody the same care and devoted handmade quality much like the confectioneries themselves. “My mum always told me I would work with my hands” says Mai. Taught a variety of handmade skills by her mother such as crocheting, a technique best displayed contrasting with metal in the ‘Khaja’ neckpiece. Her path was already set. “I just love contrasting texture through layers and colours, mixed with all types of different materials, making something you wouldn’t expect”. “If I go to the accessory market for my materials the pieces will look the same as every other

designer,” Mai tells us. “By using different, finer materials sourced from bag and shoe stalls for our jewellery, it allows me to push experimentation and contrasting further.” Sylwia skilfully distributes her control over aspects every new start-up brand faces, from social media, PR, and even designing their own website. Do their opposite styles impede such a creative endeavour? “I feel it’s important to give both partners freedom,” she says. “I trust Mai with every design decision she makes. We don’t limit one another, but sure I’ll give my opinion when asked, we’re a team.” Made to take an outfit from day to night, the styling possibilities are endless. For Sylwia they ‘finish’ her outfits, as for Mai, “right now, I’m wearing a black and pink graphic baggy t-shirt with the ‘Gulab Jamun’. I contrast them when styling, it just works,” she’s not wrong. While they’re enjoying the freedom that comes with the early stages it’s their eager ability to realistically go after their dreams that has got them this far already. “There’s no point waiting for miracles” says Sylwia, “we’re enjoying going for it and seeing what happens”. As for their anticipated AW14 collection, think fantasy British winter. From Deer, Stags and glistening dustings of snow, it will represent everything Mai has experienced over her three years living in the UK.

“When you believe, you’ve got it” Inspired by the ever changing, typical English weather, the palette will range from dark to bright blues, snow whites and classic grey. Promising to incorporate a range of even more in-depth, handmade techniques, it’s sure to remind us all of the beauty British winters can offer. While Sylwia and Mai both hold-down part time jobs alongside their university studies, it’s building Mai Theory that gives them endless energy and enthusiasm. “Two years ago I’d never have thought we could create our own brand. But all you need is a great partner and the confidence to just go for it,” says Sylwia. “We’re happy we’re able to do what we enjoy,” adds Mai. “To become successful would be great, but when you believe, you’ve got it.”

Min

53 Photo by Samantha Goodwin

ALL illustrations by maisie noble, Words by samantha goodwin

Winter Blues A change in your mood each winter may not just be down to miserable weather. If you are or think you might be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder, Holland & Barrett fills us in on what we can to do to get through those gloomy months.

Winter lethargy may be more than just a fondness for sunshine. Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD, according to the NHS affects an estimated 2 million in the UK alone, and can happen to anyone. What it is: SAD is a type of depression that usually occurs during the winter months, due to larger periods of gloomy weather. According to SAD.org.uk, the UK National voluntary organisation, UK and Ireland are most susceptible.

“Symptoms are seasonal” SAD happens, according to the NHS, because of a reduced exposure to natural sunlight, especially during the shorter days of the year. Light affects certain chemicals in the brain, stimulating the hypothalamus which controls how we feel, including our mood, appetite and sleep. A decrease of this stimulation for people with SAD, reduces the production of melatonin for the body’s circadian rhythm, known as the body’s internal clock. Differentiating from depression, symptoms are seasonal and usually begin at the same time each year during autumn, before becoming increasingly severe for some people as winter sets in. As spring approaches the symptoms can improve, before eventually disappearing, this varies individually. Due to its nature as a seasonal occurrence, it may take a few years before you or your GP can diagnose SAD. A Google search-trends analysis shows a dramatic increase in ‘Seasonal Affective Disorder’ searches during November, decreasing in July. This repeats from 2005 to 2014 with the highest number of searches from the UK, and Canada shortly behind. What are the symptoms? Like other types of depression, the NHS reports women are most likely to experience SAD up to three times more than men, and is most likely to develop in people aged 18 to 30.

Lynn Earnshaw, aged 48, explains her symptoms began during her early teens when waking up early, often in the dark during the winter periods, as a horse riding instructor. She describes her experience as, “I feel trapped in winter, trapped by the walls inside my house, or the darkness outside. Life to me is about being in the sun, feeling the warmth on my skin and seeing the blossom on the trees. I see winter as a blanket of darkness”. This lack of sunlight may cause low mood, becoming less active yet sleeping more and lack of interest in life, which are some of the main symptoms of SAD. Alexander Thompson, a BSc (Hons) Nutritionist at Holland & Barrett, recommends natural remedies when experiencing low mood and fatigue during the winter months. Those with SAD, their brain neurotransmitters are usually low. Taking St John’s Wort (SJW) herb will raise these chemical messengers, which according to Holland & Barrett has proved far more effective than anti-depressants, with a much lower risk of occurring side effects. He adds, “I also suggest you include plenty of oily fish in your diet as this contains two types of Omega 3, fat known as EPA and DHA,” EPA is needed for the smooth transmission of neurotransmitters. An alternative is their fish oil supplement, taken alongside the SJW. Maintaining a natural dense diet is also important for those with SAD, as this nourishes the body by providing key nutrients for the nervous system, such as vitamin B, C and magnesium. Thompson advises a diet of wholegrain cereals, beans, pluses, lean meats, eggs and low fat dairy products. Including plenty of oily fish, fresh fruit and vegetables. Bananas and mangoes are even considered ‘mood foods’ as they can help improve symptoms. Reducing junk food intake of refined carbohydrates and sugars, will also reduce fluctuations in blood sugar levels as these foods aggravate symptoms, causing a worsening mood. If you’re diagnosed there are a number of ways to make your day go easier. According to the

NHS, light therapy can be effective in up to 85% diagnosed cases. Sitting in front of a light box can successfully alleviate feelings of tiredness, stress and general unhappiness. There are other alternative solutions such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or prescribed antidepressant medication. Sometimes it may take a combination of treatments. Lumie successful designed the first light therapy body-clock in 1991, to treat SAD symptoms and they even supply to the NHS. Their most popular light therapy product, ‘Bodyclock Starter 30’, is a ‘dawn simulator’ which wakes users with gradually increasing light. Signalling to the body to decrease the production of melatonin (the sleep hormone) and increase cortisol, which is responsible for your get up and go.

“I see winter as a blanket of darkness” Loyal customer Amy Jenson*, aged 20, has used the ‘Bodyclock Starter 30’ for over a year, having first noticed her SAD symptoms over the last four years, “I can tell when my SAD starts to take over my life” she says. “I’d heard of light therapy so thought I would try Lumie. When I use Bodyclock I instantly feel better. It allows me to switch off my mind and wake up with ease, something I find impossible to do without.” Using Lumie’s Light Therapy keeps sleep cycles on track as well as boosts mood, energy and productivity levels all day. Sue Pavlovich of the Seasonal Affective Disorder Association (SADA), the UK’s only registered charity dedicated to SAD, gives her winter-tackling tips to the NHS which we’ve modified to suit your needs. “Everyone’s affected differently by SAD so what works for one person won’t for another” she says. “But there’s usually something that will help, so don’t give up if the first remedy you try doesn’t work. Just keep trying.”

1. Keeping active outside, ideally around midday, will increase the amount of natural light you get. However if you are unable to go out frequently, sitting by windows has an affect too. 2. Being cold can make you feel depressive symptoms – so treat yourself to some snazzy knitwear. Studies have shown that staying warm reduces the winter blues by half, so always aim to keep your home between 18C and 21C. 3. Eating a healthy diet will give your energy levels and your mood a much deserved boost. Not to mention reducing weight gain in those winter months. Pavlovich recommends balancing carb cravings for pasta or pizza (maybe not pizza) with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. 4. Light Therapy has shown to be effective in increasing mood as it is 10 times stronger, than home or office lighting. Pavlovich adds, “Some people find that using a dawn simulator [a bedside light, connected to an alarm clock, which mimics a sunrise and wakes you up gradually] as well as a light box can enhance the beneficial effect”. 5. It sounds naff, but taking up a new hobby can really keep your mind off SAD. The whole point is to give you something to look forward to and concentrate on. This can be anything from going to the gym, writing a blog or keeping a journal.

6. It’s important to make the effort and say yes to friends’ invitations, even if you don’t feel like it and only stay for a short while. Spending time socialising with loved ones will lift your spirits as well as benefit your overall mental health. 7. Talking to someone unrelated such as a therapist, counselling or CBT can help you deal with your symptoms. Talk to your GP to see what is available locally on the NHS or privately. 8. Support groups such as the SADA charity are available online. Only a click away, they’re a welcome place to talk to others who are and have experienced what you’re also going through. For those with SAD symptoms, the struggle is real. While we may not all live near the sunny equator, through light therapy and beneficial lifestyle changes, we can all take steps to improve our life quality. *Names have been changed to protect privacy. Always be sure to speak with your GP if you think you may have SAD and before making any lifestyle changes.

Which Personality Do You Have?

illustration by Fiona Gourlay, Words by samantha goodwin

Which of the 16 personality types do you have? We’re more than just a bunch of introverts and extroverts, as we uncover from real recruiters what the pros are of knowing our personality ‘type’ and whether it can prevent us from getting a job.

The psychological profiling exam called the Myers Briggs test, was developed during WWII. Dividing people into extroverts and introverts, then into more detailed types such as sense/intuition, thinking/feeling, judging/perception, this then creates your personality ‘type’. With over 2,500 personality tests available the most popular used is Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). Used by 89 of the Fortune 100 companies (which includes Google, Goldman Sachs and Starbucks), employers want to know how their potential employees will cope during high stress environments and how well they’ll work with existing staff. In a House of Lords report released in April 2014, claiming, “youth unemployment has left a ‘generation scarred’,” landing a job in 2014 is more important than ever.

Work Foundation reports UK cities have the highest rate of youth unemployment as some of the biggest US Fortune companies are hiring with the help of MBTI, can we afford to not know our personality ‘type’? We all behave differently in certain situations, including what we consider important, the way we make decisions and even how we interact as a team. The Myers & Briggs Foundation actually discourages the use of the test during hiring and firing. Its purpose, only be used as a tool for employers to think about why it is they act with their colleagues the way they do. Kersty Bletso, an MBA and Associate Director of specialist recruitment company Harvey Nash, tells us the pros and cons of knowing your type in the workplace environment, and reveals what interviewers really want.

62 illustration by maisie noble

Recruiters, Harvey Nash doesn’t use MBTI when selecting candidates, however some applicants do write their personality ‘type’ on their CV. Though most companies don’t take this into account when hiring, Bletso reassures. However, having asked employees to complete an MBTI test, once candidates have been hired, Bletso used the test to form a greater understanding of her staff’s traits and how they prefer to work. Just as the Myers Briggs Foundation intended it to be used. Are there really any benefits of knowing your personality type, compared to candidates who don’t? “It does have some benefits” says Bletso. “But knowing your type is more self-awareness for the candidate, it’s about being better.” She reveals one of the key areas they assessed during interview, is what candidates have achieved outside of academia to further their skill set. This extra experience shows a high sense of eagerness to learn, and demonstrates drive and self-motivation. Adding, “one of my clients once told me, ‘you can teach someone the skills to do a job, but you can’t teach motivation and enthusiasm’, it’s very true”. Highlighting your achievements makes your CV stand out, “we look for those who show they have pursuits, interests and have achieved something – rather than just socialising with friends or going to the cinema!” Knowing your ‘type’ can also help you prep more effectively before an interview. Though Bletso warns, interviewers know when interviewees are not being their true selves, “if you put on a front, people will spot it. Plus you won’t feel comfortable during the interview”. Some Fortune companies may use MBTI, however 16personalities.com is an online MBTI adapted test, available to take for free. Using a method called ‘the MENTI model’, it bases your personality type under the ‘Big Five’ personality traits. Which are scientifically proven, five dimensions of human personality:

“By learning more about your personality type you can start appreciating your individual traits more.” openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness and neuroticism. It uses the five personality traits, combined with: Mind, Energy, Nature, Tactics and Identity (MENTI) which defines the types. Jane Wright, the Lead Developer at MentiScore Solutions Limited for 16personalities.com, tells us why the MENTI model is reliable and how it can help improve your life. “Using the Big Five personality traits that are consistent across cultures and scientifically reliable,” says Wright, “allows you to know that there is nothing wrong with you and that your personality type is shared by millions of people, which can give a huge boost to self-confidence.” Take for example ‘Sentinels’, according to the 16personalities.com model, this ‘type’ makes up 49% of the population in our society. With traits tending to be more idealistic, spontaneous, intuitive and independent, they’re usually told in life their behaviour or thinking style isn’t ‘normal’ and that they need to change. Wright says, “by learning more about your personality type you can start appreciating your individual traits more, as opposed to trying to meet someone else’s expectations”. Knowing your type can offer understanding and personal enhancement. Use it to appreciate all of your traits for what they are and above all, appreciate you.

Photos by Samantha Goodwin

www...

S e e e xcl usi ve backstage photogr aphs of all of o u r ed i tori a ls online, plus our fir st speci al be h i nd the scenes fashion film .

Depression: what you need to know. All illustrations by maisie noble, words by samantha goodwin

Depression can happen to anyone, hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what you need to know and what you can do to give your mental health some TLC.

Mind, the national association for Mental Health in the UK, estimates by 2020, depression will be the leading cause of health problems in Europe. Maintaining positive mental health is crucial for everyone, as anyone can experience a mental health problem at any age. We look at what the signs are and how we all can maintain good mental health with help from the experts.

What is Depression? Depression is when sad or miserable feelings towards life don’t go away after a couple of weeks, or if they go and come back repeatedly every few days. Life events, such as moving, unwelcome or traumatic events, loss or childhood events can all cause depression. Low spirits is depression in its mildest form, though it doesn’t stop you living a normal life, it does make everything harder to do and seem less worthwhile. Mind reports that mixed anxiety and depression is the most common mental disorder in Britain. At the most severe, clinical depression can be life-threatening, as the signs are feeling suicidal or simply giving up the will to live. Keep Your Mind Healthy The World Health Organisation estimates 450 million people worldwide have mental health problems, with women more likely to be treated than men. Maintaining healthy mental health is vital for everyone, regardless of whether or not you may or may not be suffering with depression. Mental Health Foundation, the UK’s leading mental health research charity, believe that when you’ve good mental health you can make the most of your potential, cope with life and play a full part in your family, workplace, friends and community. We spoke to Jessica*, who has both anxiety and depression. Witnessing severe mental health problems growing up in her family, it’s this she believes is what contributed to her own problems. “I was just always waiting for something to happen, which I think brought on the anxiety,” she recalls. Having been given the option to take antidepressants, through research of her own she decided to take control without medication “although at really low points this was the hardest thing to do”. Relying on aromatherapy and herbal remedies, Jessica keeps lavender oil on her at all times and drinks valerian root during nights she feels particularly restless.

“I also see a counsellor once a week, I think it’s really healthy to be able to go to a specific place to let all of your emotions out, especially with somebody who has an impartial view,” she says. Having already had hypnotherapy for her anxiety, which worked well for Jessica, when she feels ‘bad’ she needs routine. Choosing to stop drinking alcohol and caffeine, eat well, exercise more frequently and be in bed by ten o’clock at night, within a week she says she starts to feel ‘normal’ again.

“When you’re depressed your mind controls you to an extent that you don’t even realise” “When you’re in a depressed state, your mind controls you to an extent that you don’t even realise,” she says. “So even things you see on the internet become completely misconstrued, you see what the negative part in your brain wants to see.” Revealing when she feels herself getting into a bad mind frame, deleting Facebook, Instagram and Twitter off her phone and deactivating her accounts for a while helps her mood. Lynda Spain, a Stress Management Consultant with over 27 years of NHS experience in counselling, tells us more about the effects of our 24 hour connectivity obsession, “long term effects could be insomnia due to not switching off our phones or computers, which keep people on alert unconsciously overnight. Sleeplessness does lead to low mood over time which ultimately leads to mental health issues.” Reoccurring pressures, especially for most 18-24 year olds, can also affect mental health, such as, “the constant pressure to keep up with peers tends to lead to idealising”. This type of

thought process leads to feelings of negativity which are then left and not challenged.

“1 in 4 people in the UK each year will experience a mental health problem.” Spain’s advice for maintaining healthy self-esteem and motivation is, “identify short term and long term goals to keep motivated, be around positive people and pay attention to diet, as this plays an important part of blood sugar levels. Watch how much alcohol you consume, as it’s a depressant and there are always local Mind well-being classes you can attend for support”. Self Help As Mind reports 1 in 4 people in the UK each year will experience a mental health problem, when aiming for good mental health, there are no quick, long lasting fixes. When feeling depressed the last thing you might feel like is energetic and sociable. If you are able to take an active part in your own treatment, the following tips Mind advise should help your situation. Cycle of Negativity Breaking the cycle of negative thinking will stop the build-up (like layers) of depression. Thinking negatively makes bigger problems and the solutions harder to implement. When consulting your doctor, they might recommend therapy as a treatment. One type is cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), a form of counselling that combines cognitive and behavioural therapy. Keeping active Regular exercise can be very effective in lifting mood and increasing energy levels, as well as improving appetite and sleep. Physical activity stimulates chemicals in the brain known as

endorphins, which can help you feel better. Connecting with other people Keeping in touch with people can help you to feel more grounded and sometimes get things into perspective. Talking to others about what you’re going through can help, or even just knowing somebody is there by sending a text message or making a short phone call/email. Feeling isolated is a vicious cycle, through sharing your feelings and experiences with somebody it can provide much needed relief, comfort and support. Care for yourself Spending more time on yourself will improve how you feel. There are many ways you can do this, some examples are just taking a bath, paying attention to your appearance, making healthy food choices and reducing substance intake, such as tobacco, caffeine, drugs and alcohol. Mental health affects us all and because of charities like Mind and Mental Health Foundation, there is support for everyone no matter what you’re going through. While we can all use this advice to maintain positive mental health and improve our lives. If you’re experiencing any signs of mental health problems just know that by looking after yourself and reaching out to someone around you or one of the many available charities, is the first step in building yourself back up again. Contact Mind, Samaritans or your GP for more information and support, however consult Samaritans for urgent assistance. *Names have been changed to protect privacy. Mind Infoline 0300 123 3393 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm) info@mind.org.uk Samaritans Emotional support for anyone feeling down, experiencing distress or struggling to cope. 24-hour helpline: 08457 90 90 90 jo@samaritans.org

cultur

73 Photo by Samantha Goodwin

Photo by JAMIE Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;MARA , Words By samantha goodwin

Alice Amelia Samantha Goodwin profiles the insanely talented singer songwriter Alice Amelia on her self-released EP titled ‘11’, being soulful and the pros of having a good cry… After finding her voice as a teen, she began creating her own songs for Myspace, leading to her very first signed track in 2008. It’s been nothing but up for Alice because of her powerful, determination and passion in what she’s so talented at. Having just released her own independent EP, ‘11’, we get to know Alice and gleam info on what it takes to be a self-starter and how even she, overcomes procrastination.

of sounds from solo piano/vocals to fat hip hop and even full on electronic vibes,” she says. While her preferred writing setting is just her and her piano, independently releasing allows complete creative freedom. Pairing this with a patient team, the creative process for the EP was original and organic, much like Alice herself.

‘11’ reflects everything Alice Amelia is as an artist. Overcoming an intense couple of years in her life, it represents both her personal growth, musically and spiritually. Lending a key source of inspiration demonstrated in the EP’s assorted use of genres and lyrics.

As an avid songwriter and perfectionist, the only downside to self-releasing was her constant flow of new song ideas, begging to replace the originally written EP tracks, “I had to keep reminding myself the importance of their original intent and reason for being written”. Not wanting to pigeonhole her sound, if she had to pick a genre, it would be soulful.

Collaborating with her trusted producers, her team all played their parts in creating such a unique body of music. “Expect an eclectic mix

When on stage, although these musicians make it look easy, Alice tells of the constant mental battle between ‘being in the moment’ and that

Photo by JAMIE O’MARA

loud inner voice telling her to basically, ‘not fuck up’.

“I always say to myself, ‘everything is happening exactly as it’s meant to, just trust.’” Pouring all the emotion she has to share when performing her songs, “I just pretend I’m singing at home in my bedroom.” This foundation creates the perfect balance of being both ‘in the moment’ and quieting her loud, perfectionist tendencies. With anticipated music videos currently in the motions of production, she reveals hints of

spectacular churches and plentiful piano work. This location matched with her vocal reach and those reverberating interiors, we can’t wait. Achieving all Alice has in such a short period of time, self-releasing her own EP is a huge and admirable achievement. Just how does she keep this constant flow of motivation? “I always say to myself, ‘everything is happening exactly as it’s meant to, just trust.’” Like many creatives, she’s prone to overthinking. “It’s actually easier and less hassle to just do it rather that sit around, overthinking and judging myself for not doing it, you know?” Knowing every step she takes is adding to her music career journey, that she’s been shaping for over eight years, is motivation enough. Soulful through and through, she offers her fans on both Facebook and Twitter daily tidbits, exciting announcements and even inspiring, spiritual awareness/self-help visuals (the Tumblr type,

Photo by TIM MITCHELL

not the preachy type). Her audience know her like they would a friend and Alice wouldn’t have it any other way. Aware she probably appears ‘deeply spiritual’ online, really she just wants to be the best version of herself that she can possibly be. “From what I’ve found, the ideals within spirituality shed the most light on exactly how I can be better,” she says. “I 100% believe that through bettering yourself you can better the world around you.” Adding, “the only consistent thing in the universe is change. If things don’t go the way I thought they would in my life, I just go with it,” and in this fast paced world, this is sage advice. And if times get really tough, letting go of all negativity, having a good cry and moving on is Alice’s fail safe strategy we can all use.

may be about to expand further than the UK. As for future potential gigs, the Roundhouse is her number one dream location, that or playing a grand piano in the middle of the Royal Opera House stage, “that would be super nice”. When you’ve the talent and self-motivation to keep climbing, for Alice, the Royal Opera House doesn’t seem that far out of reach. Thank you Alice Amelia, check out the EP ‘11’ on both iTunes and Spotify. Website: aliceamelia.com Twitter: @Alice11Amelia Facebook: /Alice11Amelia

From the well-received release of her EP and music video plans in the pipeline, Alice can only reveal for now that her near-future horizons just

Playlists take time, being awesome is full time. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a ready-made Juniper approved playlist for keeping it not 1, not 2, but 300% all of the time. #Yeezus

1. Britney Spears – Work Bitch 2. Jay Z – On To The Next One 3. Drake – Started from the Bottom 4. ***Flawless - Beyonce 5. Kanye West – Black Skinhead 6. Lady Gaga – Venus 7. Ida Corr Vs Fedde Le Grand - Let Me Think About It 8. Eric Prydz - Call On Me 9. Bootylicious - Destiny’s Child 10. Curtis Mayfield - Move On Up

illustrations & WORDS by samantha goodwin

10 life-gearing songs:

Sopheea

Photos & answers by Sopheea. words by Samantha Goodwin

With over 33,740 followers on Instagram Sopheea, a designer, illustrator and photographer, shares with us some of her imagery and insight into her loves.

My name is Sopheea and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m from Australia. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve an intense need to create which results in endless motivation for me.

I find inspiration everywhere. I have extensive collections of records, films, plants and books focusing on a wide variety of subjects. My parents are also collectors and have influenced me greatly, introducing me to so many different things. They really taught me to find beauty everywhere.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m working on so many different projects at the moment and have been dividing my time between my workshop, my studio and photographic explorations. My current focus however is on a new series of paintings, nature studies and the design of a zine I will be releasing.

Instagram is just wonderful. The concept of an aesthetically-based social networking platform really appeals to me. There are so many wonderful blogs out there but I think Instagram is so appealing because of its simplicity, convenience and accessibility.

Aunty Ranty Rhiannon Derbyshire

Image & words by Rhiannon Derbyshire

Meet Rhiannon, Juniper’s regular columnist. Not your ordinary fashion journalist as she’s incredibly funny too. Each issue she’ll treat you to her delightful charm, wit and realism, with a load of proper noughties references to boot. So if you don’t ‘get them’, read a damn book. Wait, actually just Google it, stop making us feel old already.

This week we take a trip down memory lane. Reminiscing about AOL dial-up, Myspace profile pics (the original selfie) and when swear words were converted to ‘Bobba’ (so fun to say). We thought we had it so good, turns out, there’s more to the internet than we originally thought. Rhiannon tells us why we should stop Instagramming our lives away…

Why I wish Tumblr was around when I was fourteen… In my day, it was all about Myspace and I mean all about it. I don’t mean to sound like some aging novelist who like, lives in a lighthouse or something, but it was so much different back then. When I was growing up it was all about who had the most friends on Myspace. It was all about PC4PC and how edited your profile photos were, with bonus points for Taking Back Sunday lyrics. Tweens these days construct beautiful creative blogs, write poetry and hilarious text posts that make me screech with laughter. I was more into angling a camera lens the perfect way to crop out my double chin.

to check your email because mum was on the phone to your auntie for 3 hours. (Dude, I was like seven. What kind of emails was I keeping a look out for?) There’s a whole age group of us that twitch when we hear the static, creaky beep-boop-beep noise of a dial up tone. While researching this piece I logged in to my own old Myspace, and was so overcome by embarrassment and horror at my fifteen year old self, I literally curled into a ball of self-loathing.

My sad little page ticked all the cliché boxes heavily kohl’d eyes, acoustic b-side from a “... like, little indie band you’ve probs never heard of” (Plain White T’s), a URL address including a nickname that nobody called me (with a z in it, Well, I say it was different but it was pretty much obvs) and far too many underscores. always all about the internet. I was born in Getting put in a boy’s ‘top eight’ was pretty 1992, and the internet really went mainstream much the modern-era equivalent of receiving a (*hipster face*) at the end of the nineties. written seven-page sonnet. You’d have breathI’m part of the last generation that’ll remember less out-in-the-corridor/on-the-landline conversations with your BFF: dial up internet and not being able to go online

Illustration by Stephanie Bain

“JAMESHASPUTYOUINHISTOPEIGHT” *nonchalantly* “huh. really? That’s cool.” (You already know this.) You were refreshing his page and reading his bio, admiring again his use of lyrics to express his unique angsty emotions – ‘CuT mY LyFe iN2 PeIcEhZ. ThIs Is My LaSt ReSoRT’. Myspace was all just a very embarrassing time for us all. Well, maybe not for Tom Anderson, its founder - who sold the company in 2005 for $580million. My goodness. Four for you Glen Coco, you go Tom Anderson. Tumblr? Well. David Karp must ROFL at Anderson’s measly $580 million, seeing as he sold Tumblr to Yahoo last year for a server-crashing $1.1 BILLION. Boy did good. I think the difference here is that Tumblr can be anything you want it to be, its users range from teenage girls to middle aged sci-fi fans, all the way over to President of the actual United States, Barack Obama. (For reals. barackobama.tumblr.com. Sadly no selfies or GIFS of bunnies in baskets, but he still has time.) Your Tumblr page is like your soul. It’s your favorite lyrics, photographers, and clothes on a page. My best friend says she can tell exactly how I’m feeling just by checking on it. Giving someone your URL is like giving someone a peek into your brain, without the need for major surgery.

Although at the same time I wish I’d never told anyone about my blog, sometimes you just need one place where you can be the 13 year old angsty kid you still are inside. I can’t post a Facebook status about a boy breaking my heart. I can’t Tweet about feeling lost or unsure about everything - that’d lose me followers, guaranteed. Tumblr, however, feels like that little corner of the internet where you can do all of that. It’s a lot more about creativity and honesty. Then you see similar things from others and you start to feel sane about it all, connecting with some sixteen year old in Alaska who also feels a bit lost. I almost feel like these are the moments the internet was invented for - a practice of humanity in a world where we spend our lives glued to our iPhones and laptops. There are people who say that all this online anonymity and secrecy makes us lose our human connections (it is, after all, far too easy to hide behind a keyboard), but it goes the other way too. I see Tumblr users saved or helped all day long on my Dashboard. Our Facebook (prev. Myspace) pages are a carefully primed and preened visual as to who we want to be seen as. I untag probably 40% of photos and haven’t updated my status since I was at school in case I don’t get enough likes. My Tumblr is unfiltered, unedited, mismatched and messy. It’s me in a URL.

We are a lost generation living our lives through a series of flattering Instagram filters. We are social media fireflies, never really sticking to one thing and flitter to whatever’s prettiest. We are in constant need of distraction, we’re a really fickle bunch - dropping Myspace for Facebook because it seemed ‘a bit more grown up’, then upping and moving to Twitter cause that’s what celebrities are doing. “Ooh, Beyoncé’s on Instagram I’m all about Instagram right now. Oh what’s your Tumblr? I have a Benedict Cumberbatch fan fiction and hot air balloons appreciation pages, I also have a personal blog but I don’t tell anyone about that one.” We laugh at the Tom-Off-Myspace’s diminished popularity but he never needs to work a day in his life or lift a finger ever again if he doesn’t feel like it. I don’t think he can hear our snidey remarks all the way over to his hammock by the Cabana. (I’m not even exaggerating. Check his twitter feed).

And you know what, these guys are really raking in the big bucks from our social media (metaphorical) bed-hopping. Instagram was bought by Facebook for $1Billion, and Snapchat turned down Mark Zuckerberg’s $3Billion offer because it wouldn’t be “very interesting” for them if they accepted. Dude, I don’t know what you’re thinking, but if you don’t think you can make an “interesting” life having a spare $3billion in cash then you and I are very different people. You could BUY a GIRAFFE! You could BUILD a FLAMINGO SANCTUARY in your HOUSE! Really, if we’re clever we should be seeking out the next hot big thing, mapping out our future millions in the stars. If only we can put our iPhones down for five minutes and stop Instagramming our lunches. Peep into Rhiannons soul here: ilaaavyou.tumblr.com

Top 4 Forgotten Social Medias That I’m So Glad Aren’t Still A Thing Habbo hotel Chatting to weird avatars online and going into random rooms in a massive pixelated hotel. Weird. I think I paid actual money to get my character to go down the swimming pool slide. Why. Neopets I don’t know if this counts as a social media per se but I wasted, days, weeks of my life on the freaky-deaky pet simulation game. Did anyone else feed their pets via the free soup kitchen to save their (plentiful) coins for trinkets, or am I alone in being that much of a terrible person?

MSN I’d hate for someone to count up all the hours I spent online on MSN after school, in the same time-equivalent I bet I could’ve like, learnt Korean or become really good at hula-hooping. Pro Tip: Log out and back in again when your crush is online, bringing your fine self to his attention.

images from sulake

Bebo “Bitch didn’t send me no LOVE? After I BOUGHT YOU that FLAPJACK at BREAKTIME?”

Photo by Samantha Goodwin

Healt

80lbs Lost, At Home

Photos by Natasha Gage, words by Samantha Goodwin

Natasha shares her story

With over 13.k followers on Instagram and a constant stream of Tumblr questions every day, people around the world are all eager to find out one thing, just how did Natasha Gage lose over 80lb in her own home? No quick fixes here, through hard-work and knowledge, we speak directly to the girl who’s inspiring thousands online that they really can do it too. With her honest story, Natasha tells us of her real life health struggles, where to start, how to adapt our diets and the big ‘secret’ behind what has made her journey possible…

Hello Nat, thank you for talking to us. Firstly, what was it that made you determined to lose weight for good? Initially I blamed my weight gain on my heart condition and the medication used to control it, instead of the drinking and glutinous food portions I devoured. I went to the doctor to ask about ways that I could lose weight. I just wanted to be lazy and get tablets because I was convinced I had tried everything to lose weight, apart from true healthy eating and proper exercise. My doctor asked me to step on the scales and the sense of denial I had was pulled from me, as she informed me I was obese. I felt physically sick and cried the entire way home. How long has it now been since you made the lifestyle change? I started losing weight on January 5th 2012 and I can safely say I wish I had started sooner. Which workouts did you decide to use to make that change? Did you have a routine? Initially I started with Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred which I discovered through Tumblr. I did it four to six times a week with no additional cardio. At first I couldn’t even use any hand weights because I was so out of shape. For some people, adapting their diets for weight loss can be hard to maintain. What did you do? I started to cut down on added sugar, which was hard because I adore chocolate. I still have a huge love for savoury carbs and I would rather have a family pack of crisps instead of a piece of cake. I made more foods from scratch so I’d stop buying meals on the go after lectures at university. My biggest change (even though it sounds feeble) was drinking more water and cutting down on alcohol. My average daily intake currently looks like this: Breakfast: Quaker Oats golden syrup por-

“My health is my responsibility” ridge made with semi-skimmed organic milk and a tablespoon of peanut butter. I have a white coffee every morning with no added sugar or sweeteners. If I don’t have porridge then I have a spinach, banana, raspberry and blueberry smoothie. Lunch: usually this is tuna, mayonnaise with red onion or sweetcorn. I also have a bowl of green salad with balsamic vinegar. Dinner: fried diced chicken, sweet potato mash and a mix of vegetables that I also fry. They include red peppers, red onion, mange tout, baby corn, spring onion and mushrooms. Snacks – boiled eggs, cookies & cream protein shake, protein bars, sunflower seeds, apples and bananas. What were the initial differences your saw and felt? The idea of losing 80lbs in the beginning was massively daunting to me. I never thought I could achieve my goals but I remember thinking that this was going to be my last attempt at losing weight and this time I was going to finally succeed.

I was so exhausted after my workouts but felt such a sense of satisfaction that I had to keep going. As the number on the scales and tape measure got smaller, the prouder I became of myself because I had finally done it the proper way. The numbers did shrink relatively quickly because I had started at such a high weight. What keeps you motivated?

You have so many fans and supporters on Instagram and Tumblr, why do you think so many people are searching for answers and instant results?

I have to reaffirm myself that my health is my responsibility and nobody else is going to do a healthy food shop for me or move my backside. I have come so far and I do not want to return to being miserable about my size, my health and my confidence.

We live in a fast society and everyone has grown up wanting everything immediately. Advertisements used to sell weight loss products, such as shakes or DVDs, tapping into our consumerism so we’re drawn in by selling words and the promise of fast results.

Why do you think some people tend to lose motivation when using home work out plans?

What would you recommend to anyone wanting to try home workouts for the first time?

I think a lot of people have a common misconception that weight loss involves eating very little and when combined with a sudden influx of extra activity they become fatigued and give up. I was never very well educated about healthy eating and exercise.

I wholly recommend Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred, which is very quick to do as the workout is only 20 minutes and the moves aren’t complicated. Following that I would recommend her Ripped In 30 DVD, which is more challenging but still as easy to do.

I didn’t think I could eat as much as I do and was convinced I would get bulky using little 1kg weights. Education is key and I think an increased number of people would carry on if they educated themselves and saw how easy it is to maintain this lifestyle in the long run.

By now you must have some favourite trainers whose workout DVDs you prefer to use. Who are they? Jillian Michaels is one of my favourites because she has been unhealthy before and when you’re really struggling during a workout you can hear her scream motivating phrases at you, to keep you going. Cassey Ho is also one of the loveliest people in the fitness community. Her videos (freely available on YouTube and Blogilates.com) are very easy to follow and her happy attitude is infectious.

What are your 5 top tips to change your lifestyle? Meet your needs: consider that all people are different and the diet/exercise plan you’ve found in a magazine isn’t created for you. I would suggest people use the calculators at iifym.com to determine how many calories they need every day. Staying hydrated is also vital! Plan: A after determining calorie needs, a person can begin planning their meals before they go shopping. This means they can split their calories for how long they want to stay full and know that they are not over or under eating. There are a multitude of resources online for clean eating recipes and also apps available for smart phones to track intake. Don’t set date goals: I firmly believe that weight loss is a marathon and not a race. Personally I feel that if someone says that they want to lose weight by a certain date then they have not really considered the true point of being healthier. It isn’t all down to aesthetics.

Challenge yourself: increase the number of reps or distance covered each workout to know that there are improvements being made even if it is little by little. It isn’t all doom and gloom: to be healthy there is no need to ‘eat clean’ every single day and it is perfectly okay to have big ‘cheat meals’ or days off. I have cheat meals and days off as it’s important not to be afraid of food. Weight gain does not happen as soon as you put food into your mouth. And finally, what is the ‘secret’? Time! It takes time to gain weight and lose stamina and therefore it will take time to get it back. Expecting immediate results will just cause disheartenment and soon enough it will make people give up because they think they’re doing things incorrectly.

illustration by Jem Magbanua, words by Samantha Goodwin

Hydration If drinking two litres of water a day is your kind of hell, we take a look at the detrimental effects dehydration causes the body. Keeping well hydrated is something we all have to be proactive with. According to National Hydration Council, the non-profit hydration organisation, the average Briton drinks less than one glass of water a day. The standard â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;eight glasses a dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rule is only the minimum. And in UK measurements, that equates to 1.9 litres of water a day. Minimum. In a survey conducted with some of our readers, we found 25% consume only less than half a litre of water a day. Getting in your daily recommended intake of fluid is easier than you think. Another plus is you can even eat your way to better skin, having more energy and becoming healthier all round, just from H2O.

Water & The Body As water accounts for 60% of an adults body weight, our joints, including spinal cord and eyes, are surrounded by it to lubricate the joints and tissues. National Hydration Council say our brain is 73% water, poor hydration ultimately affects how it functions. A healthy amount of water in your system allows your body to transport oxygen to the brain and muscles more efficiently, especially during a workout. Helping you work harder and stronger for longer. By getting in the habit of seeing fizzy drinks as a treat and not a solution to your thirst, by opting for water you’ll soon start to see health benefits, if not instantly. Drinking tap water will also save you money; however it’s always best to check with your water supplier or local community if you’re unsure of its quality, especially when travelling.

“Dehydration is a warning sign there’s a fluid deficit in the body.” Dehydration Those who are continuously dehydrated or only drink when they’re thirsty can easily become used to dehydration symptoms. Dehydration is a warning sign there’s a fluid deficit in the body, according to the NHS. Feeling drained, sluggish, dizzy, weak, light-headed and experiencing heart palpitations, muscle cramps and dark urine are symptoms of being dehydrated. Including, poor concentration, tiredness, fatigue, irritability, dry mouth/throat, chapped/dry lips, fast pulse, flushed skin and headaches.

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According to National Hydration Council, studies show that dehydration can reduce our ability to concentrate, affecting our cognitive and physical performance and increases feelings of aggression or irritation. 48% of our survey users drank between one to two litres of water a day and said they experienced less headaches and had softer skin, helped with digestion and made them feel more refreshed. Some even commented on liking the ‘taste’, while some admitted they only drank water because they knew it was good for them. Alcoholic drinks are diuretics and can cause dehydration, drinking water or other soft drinks alongside these will help ease a hangover. Caffeine, found in tea, coffee and cola, are mild diuretics which slightly increase the amount of urine you produce. By drinking these in moderation you won’t need to drink extra fluid to compensate. Water is the best choice for reaching your daily fluid requirement and contains no calories or sugar and is generally free. Urine, It’s Important The colour of your urine is an indicator of your hydration levels. The lighter it is the more hydrated you are. Drinking too much water at once causes your body to eliminate the ‘excess’, which can also make your urine lighter, though it may not be entering our cells to hydrate the body. The best approach to being truly hydrated is to drink about two to three ounces every fifteen minutes and move frequently, movement helps deliver the water to our cells so it doesn’t recognise it as excess. Health Benefits of Water One of the main long lasting physical effects of dehydration is the skins loss of elasticity, according to Boots.com, fine lines and wrinkles also appear deeper.

Water plumps up the skin cells, making the face look younger. It flushes out impurities, improves circulation and blood flow and leaves a clear, soft glowing complexion.

“Dehydration can reduce our ability to concentrate affecting our cognitive and physical performance.” It’s also the body’s principal chemical component and makes up around 60% of your body weight. From flushing out toxins in the vital organs, carrying nutrients to the cells, to providing a moist environment for the nose, ear and throat issues, our bodily system depends on water. Drinking enough water can also reduce the chance of kidney stones. As water dilutes the salts and minerals in urine, which form these painful solid crystals, they’re less likely to form in diluted urine. How much should you drink? The amount of liquid intake you need varies depending on the individual. According to the NHS, factors such as age, sex, health and level of daily physical activity all affect this amount. Taking into account your daily lifestyle, you can start to estimate how much you should be drinking. The ‘eight glasses of water a day’ theory isn’t supported by hard evidence; it’s just easy to remember. The Food Standards Agency recommends if you live in the UK, you should be drinking 1.2 litres of fluid a day. However the World Health Organisation recommends even more, that women should aim for 2.2 litres a day and men, 2.5. Always drink more in hot weather or if you’re active.

keep a refilled water bottle with you at all times. Water Alternatives Drinking two litres of water a day can seem daunting and boring, especially for those who are just not that into water. Health.com reports most fruits and vegetables consist of 18-90% of water, and are low in calories yet high in fibre. 20% of our water daily intake comes from these. Watermelon is 91.5% in water weight and is one of the richest sources of lycopene, a boosting antioxidant found in all red fruits and vegetables. With twelve milligrams per wedge compared to only three milligrams found in a medium sized tomato, nothing says summer and hydration more than watermelon. Cucumber, iceberg lettuce, celery, radishes, tomatoes, green bell peppers, cauliflower, grapefruit, baby carrots, spinach and strawberries are just some of the foods that are also over 90% in water weight. Too much of a good thing Drinking too much water has dangerous side effects. Like everything, the key is moderation. Water intoxication is a potentially fatal condition as huge amounts of water affect the normal balance of electrolytes in the body. However water intoxication is rare and only commonly seen in inexperienced athletes. Dehydration is becoming a bigger problem, according to a survey by the Tea Council a third of all adults in the UK fail to meet their daily fluid requirements. Overall as the results show across the UK, some of us could do with drinking more water. Even if we know it or not, by forming a healthy routine and keeping water around us at all times, and actually drinking it, is not only helping our body function properly, we’ll even look fresher faced in the process and who doesn’t want that?

The best way to keep hydrated all day is to

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Photos by Samantha Goodwin

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beauty

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Hair talk: Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen twins Mary-Kate & Ashley, can do just about anything – all we want is their hair. We speak to top hair styling experts to find out just how we can get those effortless looking locks and what it is we’re all doing wrong with our hair…

Surfer waves just connote that carefree, sunkissed, beachy lifestyle Californians achieve on a daily basis. Growing up most of us ogled this lifestyle projected through television via types like Ivy in 90210. Embodying surfer vibes with that perfect wavy hair, she even bagged Liam (who knows how, but we can bet it was probably because of her hair). But for true surf-style hair lovers there can only be but one idol, and they come as a pair, the perfect Mary-Kate and Ashley. With the twins first debut as babies on Full House, they’re a long way away from Holiday In The Sun and starring in their own PS1 games (Magical Mystery Mall anyone?).

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Now respected fashion designers with their luxury brands The Row and Elizabeth James, the duo sure know their fashion. Their style, documented by relentless paparazzi, has accumulated a back catalogue of looks for Olsen obsessives to emulate. Their most replicated look? ‘Bohemian-chic’ they actually made it a legitimate thing! Some say bag-lady, others who know their fashion recognise the MKA channelling at work. Along with the look came beauty to match, MKA hair – or surf-hair, if you will. You know the look, textual yet clean, wavy and natural. Do they spend hours (like the rest of us) bound by curling irons and hairspray, or do they literally wake-up-like-this?

While it’s safe to say their hair is probably in the hands of a personal hair-stylist, we took the liberty of finding out just how we can realistically replicate this look for ourselves. Speaking to top hair-stylist’s Danielle Ryan and Dannii-Marie Brooks, at Manchester’s leading hair-salon Paul Anthony Hair, we discover first-hand how us mere mortals can master the beach-meets-city surf waves. Plus (for those dry-hair shampoo addicts out there) some bonus professional info as to why we should really start washing our hair more. Surf hair tips and tricks: The base for surfer hair Starting with fresh clean hair, brush through and (using the lowest heat setting on the hair dryer) blast the roots till about 10% damp. This avoids damage and frizz to the sensitive roots which happens when too much heat is applied. For Danielle’s clients, she sprays Paul Anthony Shake & Protect all over – a light conditioning and heat protect spray that won’t overload the hair. Most conditioners actually make the hair heavy when applied too liberally. It’s what causes those pesky static fly-aways – so not MKA. Using the Shake & Protect provides a perfect balance of protective product plus a great textural base when beginning to create those surf style waves. The Wave Bad news. Wavy locks do depend on hair type. While it’s a happier place to pretend salt-sprays will instantly change your hair into Mary-Kate’s with just a few sprays and a scrunch, it just won’t happen if you don’t have that natural texture (sadly we know this all too well). However, even if you have poker straight hair, fear not! This hard realisation you’ve just had to face isn’t the end. Follow these expert tips on how to use products effectively and you too can actually rock out the day with serious MKA hair. A huge advocate of messier-the-better hair, (that’s actually healthy-and-clean) when Dan-

ielle designed the Ocean Mist spray for Paul Anthony Hair products, she wanted it to cater for all hair types who want light, textural hair. “Like our separate Fixing Spray and serum products, Ocean Mist still gives shine and hold but without creating a ‘crispy curl’ or worse, an 80’s style ‘wet look’,” she says. “If you’ve got a natural curl to your hair it will define it more. However if you’ve got straight hair it won’t give it a ‘curl’ because you don’t have the natural texture, but what it will do is create a cool yet lightweight salty-texture with movement”. There is hope! The Skills Dannii, the girlie behind the brands social media, understands straight-haired girls’ woes who long for MKA styled hair. For achieving a messy, long-lasting wave, she uses a one inch curling tongue in different directions. After blasting with cold air, she applies Paul Anthony Shine Serum and Fixing Spray for a healthy look and trusty hold. This style can then be put into a scrunchie before going to sleep, keeping a wavy look that’s good to go the next day. Perhaps apply some good old dry-shampoo for more volume. Paul Anthony top tip: Not just a 90’s comeback, using a hair scrunchie minimises damage and breakage to the hair caused by elastics. Putting your hair into a bun with a scrunchie after partially drying it, can also create natural waves for the hair – literally zero fuss! For a more styled MKA going-out curl, Danielle recommends using GHD’s with the same technique applied when spiralling ribbon for presents creates a natural looking styled wave. The GHD curl compliments hair with lots of layers, however for girls with no layers the curling wand is your new best friend. Using the wand, you can curl in the same or different directions, then comb through afterwards to loosely break up the waves. Always remember to cold-blast when finished!

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DIY Scalp Cleanse For a healthier scalp, turns out our beloved dryhair shampoo leaves a tough barrier. Regular use without washing your hair every few days, can lead to a build-up of natural oils sometimes resulting in oily roots and dry ends. MKA would be so disappointed right now. Using only the fingertips when cleansing the scalp, this massaging technique activates the sebaceous glands which release all those good natural oils for our hair. Applying conditioner to the ends and combing through brings those natural oils down to the driest part. Maintaining a nutritious diet and keeping hydrated also helps keep a luscious mane. Once a month reward your hair with a conditioning treatment. Dannii recommends a personal favourite, Aussie 3 Minute Miracle, and Milkshakes Leave In Conditioner for when you’re in a rush and need a quick hair-refresh!

Photo, Words and Illustrations by Samantha Goodwin

Thanks to Paul Anthony’s professional techniques share, we can achieve that Mary-Kate and Ashley look, whatever our hair type.

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Every girl on the quest for perfect waves knows (unless you live on a beach) it’s pretty much trial and error, but with these salon recommended tips and products, MKA is that little more achievable. Website: paulanthonyhair.co.uk Twitter: @PaulAnthonyHair Facebook: /PaulAnthonyHairdressing Must have products in your beauty draw Paul Anthony: Shake & Protect / Ocean Mist / Thermal serum / Fixing spray are all £ 8.95 each. Each product was designed with the customers’ needs and stylists’ tastes in mind. No heavy hair here, these products are all you need in your tool kit for happy, shiny, healthy hair. Available to order via email @ paulanthonyclientmail@aol.co.uk Milkshake: Leave-In Conditioner, for a healthier hair kick if you’re in a rush. Created by using milk proteins for more moisture when you need it most. Aussie: 3 Minute Miracle Reconstructor, what a good excuse to treat your hair once a month.

Holiday in the Sun:

Only the best film in the world, and a true reflection of every kid’s childhood. Because who isn’t taken out by your parents mid class and welcomed by a private jet for a surprise winter-vacay to the Bahamas? Real life sucks, let’s pretend it’s better and reminisce that holiday we all shared with this MKA special, ‘Holiday In the Sun’ soundtrack. Why was Megan Fox’s character Brianna Wallis such a douche-b? Omg Jordan Landers was like, so hot. Whatever happened to that band Play? :-( So many unanswered questions. Enjoy! 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Play – Us Against The World One Girl - Superchic[k] ToyShop – Runaway Island In The Sun – Weezer Get Up - Superchic[k]

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Mood Boosting Scents illustrations by Lucy atkinson, Words by Samantha Goodwin

Summer is just around the corner. While we wait we uncover the truth behind whether or not scent notes can really boost our mood, so you can smell as summery as you feel. Therese Molnar, executive director of the Sense and Smell Institute for PsychologyToday. com says, “scents can have positive effects on mood, stress reduction, sleep enhancement, self-confidence, and physical and cognitive performance”. As if we needed another reason to splurge a little extra on our favourite scents, who can argue with science? According to Rachel Herz, a neuroscientist at Brown University, in her book Scent of Desire

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she explains that emotional links are formed through association, when we’re around scents during happy times. The associated meaning happens when a scent intertwines with the brains nerve connections. This interacts directly with our hippocampus, the memory part of the brain, “no other senses have this kind of deep access”, says Herz. So if you just so happen to be caught secretly sniffing your boyfriend’s jumper when you’re feeling a bit soppy, you’re not alone. According to Herz, smelling a person’s signature scent can prove far more effective in feeling like that person is actually there. Much more romantic than stalking their Facebook. This is because of those clever links in the brain, which pair together the connection of personal meaning and scent. Much like we remember those scents our love ones emit, the same goes for ourselves. Choosing your signature fragrance plays a much bigger role than just what looks good on your beauty table. According to Herz, your chosen scent contributes to how others form impressions of you, without even realising it. Just as you think about your appearance and presence for job interviews, the usual tip for scent is to just wear deodorant and drop the perfume altogether. We’re sensory beings. An attack on one of the senses won’t get you on the best of starts you deserve.

We’ve all walked past someone and had to gasp for air once the perfume haze has floated by. Both men and woman are prone to spritzing a little too much, especially if it’s a scent we love and want to smell all day (even though still don’t). Whether you straight up spray too much, or just like a strong perfume (Thierry Mugler Alien anyone?), the general rule of thumb is just because you might not be able to still smell it fifteen minutes later, doesn’t mean no one else can. Less is truly more. Being aware is key when picking your favourite scents. It also gives you greater control and understanding of how you would like to represent yourself. We’ve put together a selection of note analyses, found in scents you can buy now, so you can wear them with whole a new meaning. Vanilla: Scent expert Herz says, sniffing vanilla can actually give you the same pleasure you would experience from eating it - minus the calories. Result! Introduced into perfumery during the early nineties, it is often said the powerful memories most people have with vanilla are linked to childhood. Think birthday cake, fresh-baked cookies, cupcakes and Milky-Bar kid, we can see why. However there’s more to vanilla than baking, used in medical experiments it’s proved pure vanilla can actually help reduce stress and anxiety. From a study in Tubingen University, Germany, not only does pure vanilla have a calming effect, due to its ingredient essence, but it can even reduce the ‘startle-reflex’ in both humans and animals. Except animals don’t have the yummy memories! If that isn’t enough to convince you to start wearing more vanilla infused scents, perhaps this important fact might just do it. Birthday cake or no birthday cake, in the seventeenth century, vanilla was considered a powerful aphrodisiac. (Duh, cake.) For a classier yet none edible infusion you can actually mist upon your beautiful being, try Si by

Giorgio Armani. Launched in 2013, it’s the must have vanilla and rose-May fragrance this year. Coconut: A love-hate scent for some, coconut has the power to mentally transport you to a tropical island, much like Cast Away but without the whole ‘Wilson’ thing. Except without breaking into coconuts due to possible severe dehydration, you can just smell like one instead. Marc Jacobs launched Dot in 2011, a fruityfloral scent, it comes packed with exotic notes of coconut, wrapped in a soft vanilla embrace. Cute bottle aside, once spritzed you’re literally in paradise thanks to its red berry, pitaya (dragon fruit) combination and trio of honeysuckle, jasmine and orange blossom notes. Its dreamy base of coconut water, driftwood and sensual musk gives an after-surf feeling, minus the sand. Conjuring imagery of hot summers

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blessed with fresh fruit and streams of cool water. It’s our belief, smelling like a coconut is harmonic for the soul, cranky Tom Hanks wasn’t that deprived surely? Whatever the case, Marc knew what he was doing when he created Dot. Not only do you get a statement bottle that looks good in your room or as a gift, you can truly smell like summer, regardless of the weather, or location. Rose: Rosa, Latin for rose hailing from France, is one of the most beautiful flowers around. Valued over centuries by many cultures, as their colour-coded meanings may differ, their purpose always stems from a place of love. If it’s freshness you’re after, Donna Karan’s DKNY Be Delicious: Skin Hydrating is for you. Its calming rose notes add depth that tie this otherwise apple-y scent together. While shaped like an apple and sure smells like an apple due to its special ‘Apple Fusion Complex’, see if you can literally smell the roses.

For rose scent lovers wanting to step it up a notch, Jimmy Choo is your next purchase. Launched in 2011 its woody base enhances the floral notes. Combining playfulness with femininity, its vibrant ginger and pear freshness compliments any occasion. For a more explosive infusion of florals and sweetness, consider Viktor&Rolf Flowerbomb as king. Released in 2005 its combination of green tea and Sambac jasmine allows the Centifolia rose to spike. Luring in anyone who smells it, it’s slightly musky yet milky powdery notes are what sell bottle after bottle, containing this ultimate sensory adventure. As we experience life through senses, fragrances can have a powerful effect on our daily lives and can be used as an important tool to communicate and construct who we are to the world. Choose who you want to be with this selection of luxurious, mood enhancing notes.

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Illustration and words by Samantha Goodwin

In conversation with... The Bucket Woman

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You voted so we concocted the reality. Here’s the first of our fictional style-file interviews with characters we only dream of conversing with. Stay tuned on juniperjournal. com for a chance to vote for the next interview in issue 2! From tips on hosting the perfect candlelight supper, to cherished hand-painted periwinkles and even thoughts on Lady Gaga, we introduce you to – The Bucket woman…

Hello Mrs Bucket, first of all can I say what a pleasure it is to interview you. Of course it is dear, how fortunate for you to be acquainted with a person of such high standing. Indeed my candlelight suppers are regaled far and wide among our select community…and it’s Bouquet dear, it’s French you know. iPhone or Blackberry? No, no, none of this ‘smart-phone’ business for me. Though, I adore my white slim line with automatic redial, which to all is considered extremely smart. Such a useful device and top of the range you know, especially for when people of substance in our little community are most probably queuing to ring me at this very moment. Then of course my beloved Sheridan would be lost without it – he’s always ringing his mummy. Such a devoted and clever boy, he’s at the Poly you know. Snail-mail or Hotmail? Constant mail connectively amongst higher class individuals such as myself and my husband Richard is critically important. I imagine ‘Hotmail’ is especially useful for deterring such unwanted 2nd class post? I blame the postal service... surely they train their workers to recognise first class stamp houses when they come across them? Your thoughts on Lady Gaga? Naturally I admire and if I may be so bold, emulate any woman of status and high social standing. Gaga…an unusual aristocratic name, is that Russian decent? What is your most treasured household item? Hhmmm such a difficult question, with one owning so much valuable objet d’art I feel perhaps my Royal Doulton with the hand painted periwinkles to be my favourite, Purely because of the joy they and I provide at my most sought after and highly exclusive candlelight suppers.

Who do you look up to the most? My poor dear daddy, a celebrated and commended war veteran, tragically cut down in his prime whilst fighting for king and country. A brilliant IQ struggling with senility…course we ought to have him live here, but he drops food everywhere and brings my beloved Sheridan out in a rash. Pet-peeve? If there’s one thing I can’t stand, its snobbery and one-upmanship. Take Mrs Barker-Finch from Number 23, horrible woman, so desperate to reach my level of social standing. She was a Barker, her husband a Finch then all of a sudden they’re hyphenated! I’m exasperated by people trying to pretend they’re superior. Makes it so much harder for those of us who really are. What’s the most indulgent item you’ve recently purchased? Without a doubt a pair of very expensive ski’s I bought for my dear Richard. Awarded early retirement after years of devoted service to his community, we aim to take several winter holidays on the Piste. Of course being in high social demand we have nothing booked momentarily, however I thought it a good idea for Richard to familiarise himself when securing them to the roof of our Rover series 200 saloon, plus giving the neighbours something to hopefully aspire to. Thank you Mrs Buck, I mean Bouquet for kindly allowing me into your lovely home. That’s quite alright dear, now hurry along for I have an important appointment with the vicar, he’s in desperate need of my expert advice regarding coffee afternoons and light refreshments for the monthly church ‘bring and buy’. Goodbye dear, don’t forget to pick up your shoes on your way out…

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