Seashore Creative - Issue 1 - August 2017

VOLUME NUMBER 1

AUGUST 2017

CREATIVE

WELCOME Welcome to our very first issue of Seashore Creative magazine!

Seashore Creative is a celebration of all things coastal; places to stay, events, markets.

Delightful and hidden little coastal shops and galleries, coastal interiors inspiration, showing how to create the spirit of the sea in your home. Family holidays by the sea and ways of encouraging your children to develop a love of the outdoors and playing safely by the sea. It’s also a place inspire creativity.

Growing up by the sea, it’s hard when you find yourself living away from it, and our idea of Seaside Creative was first created as we walked along the seashore on a windy winter’s day, when despite the chill, the sun was shining and the ideas kept tumbling out of us as we made our way back to the car and it helped to numb the regret we always feel as we leave the sea behind and drive inland.

Seashore Creative is definitely not exclusively just for people who live by the sea, but instead a source of inspiration for people who love the sea, who share a love of fresh air, wonderful seascapes and freedom.

We love the thought of an extended family, people who are like-minded, creative, who also want to encourage the next generation to experiment with their ideas, to create spaces where young people can leave the technology behind and enjoy being creative.

And so the concept of Seashore Creative grew, in this issue we want to share and celebrate the art of creating, making, relaxing or finding inspiration.

A huge thank you to: Sheila Fleet, Arabella Marshall, Louise Sinclair, Sue Hawken And all the lovely companies included for joining us in this first issue.

We hope you enjoy it! www.seashorecreative.co.uk

Please Note All information about products and services are supplied to us by the individual organizations, or agencies acting on their behalf. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that all information is accurate, it may be subject to change. Inclusion in this magazine does not imply endorsement by Seashore Creative. Seashore Creative does not accept responsibility for the content of any external site.

The views and opinions expressed by the individual companies, agencies and other contributors are theirs alone and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Seashore Creative.

CONTENTS

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INTERVIEW - SHEILA FLEET

15 EATING AL FRESCO 23 INTERVIEW - ARABELLA MARSHALL 31 INTERVIEW - LOUISE SINCLAIR 39 NATURAL PHOTOGRAPHY 47 MAKING MEMORIES 55 INTERVIEW - SUE HAWKEN 61 TOP READS FOR SUMMER 65 HOLIDAYS BY THE SEA

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interview Sheila Fleet, OBE, Designer of Fine Jewellery

You have had such an amazing career, what have been your highlights?

I think the first thing was getting into Art College; in 1963 I started at Edinburgh College of Art and graduated in 1967. Following this I was awarded a Post Diploma for a further year’s professional training in jewellery for industrial endorsement, and I was lucky enough to work in London with Andrew Grima, one of Britain’s top jewellery designers.

Having worked in fine jewellery with Andrew, I then had an opportunity to work in costume jewellery with Corocraft, who were one of the leading costume jewellers at the time. I spent 8 years with them, working alongside some amazing people, and I was fortunate to win prizes for some of my designs in the Goldsmiths, Silversmiths and Jewellers Art Council Competition at Goldsmiths Hall in London. I also met and married my husband, Rick Fleet, who was a blacksmith in Surrey.

In 1977 I decided it was time to return home, Rick was also keen to come, and so we relocated to Orkney. In 1993 after working for 26 years in the jewellery industry, I decided the time was right to set out on my own. With my husband and son’s help I set up in business designing and manufacturing jewellery and opened my first workshop in Orkney.

I now have quite a large staff, all of who have families and I am so proud that we have brought business and employment opportunities for them locally in the community.

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What do you love about being based in Orkney? much of my inspiration comes from nature; the wild shorelines of Orkney and north Scotland I believe it’s important to travel and see have lovely marram grasses which sweep from what life is like elsewhere, I loved my time in side to side in the sea breeze. This inspired me England, I love the countryside and the trees, to create Wild Grasses, a delicate free flowing we don’t have many trees on Orkney. I also love design with layered silver and enamel. Who the south coast, I enjoyed walking along the would have thought something so simple could beaches, I found them very inspirational, but become one of our best selling items.

I also believe that your heart stays where you were born, and we have so much to inspire us The dragonfly is one of my latest designs; they here on Orkney, I love being here, and now as have the most amazing colours. There are so well as the Workshop, we also have plans for many creatures I want to use in my designs, I a beautiful Showroom and Cafe in a Church still want to create bees and butterflies! conversion next door.

What advice do you have for creative What is special about being an authorised businesses based near the coast? maker of Scottish Gold?

Designing and making something is good for I’ve always been fascinated by stones, and in the soul. Play to your strengths and be original.

Scotland’s geology, and when I heard about There is always a market for anything well the attempts to open up a mine at Tyndrum in made. My advice would be to get a solid Scotland I went and visited them and actually foundation such as going to an Art College, went down the mine. We wrote a letter of support which will expand your horizons, inspire your and I was delighted to have been chosen to be creativity and give you the confidence to step able to work with some of the Scottish Gold out in your chosen discipline. from the Cononish Gold Mine, although there a limited amount available at the moment I hope The craft side I think you can learn as you go more will become available as they develop along, through “hands on” experience, we can the mine in the future. I am currently creating learn something every day. Find something you some beautiful Scottish Gold rings that will be love and which inspires you, inspiration is all around, the sea, archeology, mine was stones available later this year. and sculpture, jewellery is like mini-sculpture.

We love your dragonfly designs; can you tell us The craft industry is the backbone of Britain, a little about the inspiration behind it? more and more people are joining groups of When you go for a walk, take time to stop and other craftspeople, going online and opening look, it’s amazing all the little creatures you up global audiences for their products. can find going about their life, and there are so many different directions that you can take. My When you have time to relax, what are your late husband used to take all the photographs favourite activities? and I miss him, but with my son we are trying I walk along the beach, collecting things, I like to develop the portfolio of images. I always to take time to breathe, to see and listen. write an origination card to go with my pieces,

The waves that come into Orkney from across the Atlantic Ocean are so awesome. I still haven’t managed to visit all the islands.

We are never short of something to do here, I love jazz, we have so much good music, music is incredibly powerful, I admire anyone that can play anything well.

Often when I am relaxing I find inspiration, I’m very lucky to earn a living doing something I love; look for something that you enjoy doing and it won’t seem like work. https://sheilafleet.com

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Dusk Lighting

Need lights to illuminate the exterior of your home? Transform your garden or patio with our beautiful ground lighting. Our high quality Astro coastal lighting range is available now! www.dusklights.co.uk

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LSA International

Innovative design and quality craftsmanship are the hallmarks of LSA International. The London based b tableware and barware. LSA International products are selected by some of the world’s top retailers, inte www.lsa-international.com

brand is recognised as one of the world’s foremost producers of decorative accessories, erior designers, stylists, restaurateurs, sommeliers and mixologists.

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Garden Trading

The Garden Trading collection embodies a clean, practical and uncluttered lifestyle. Combining classic m home and garden accessories adds distinctive style to any living space. www.gardentrading.co.uk

materials with innovative designs; the range of contemporary lighting, timeless furniture, plus

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EATING AL FRESCO In the summer we love the romance of the family table, which becomes the focus of long lazy meals, shared in the sunshine. Taking wholesome ingredients, and sharing healthy recipes, here are a delicious collection of books to help you to feel inspired.

The Mediterranean Table Ryland Peters & Small Vibrant, delicious and naturally healthy food for warm days beside the sea.

Synopsis: Discover the joy of cooking and eating Mediterranean food with this tempting selection of 150 recipes, full of sunshine flavors that will transport you to a summer vacation state of mind.

This book provides the inspiration you need to create memorable occasions in the warmer months.

Mediterranean food is known for its punchy yet warm flavors of garlic, fresh herbs, chilli, olive oil, and lemon.

It is renowned for its naturally healthy ingredients and quick and easy methods— from cured meat and fresh seafood to salty cheeses, olives, anchovies, and roasted vegetables. Whether you are having an impromptu cook-out on the beach with the kids, an al fresco lunch with a friend on a shaded verandah, or a romantic dinner under a canopy of stars, you will find just the recipe you need here. http://www.rylandpeters.com

Seashore Creative Review This delicious book includes a wonderful selection of meals for eating during the summer, from Snacks and Plates to Share—a selection of Mediterranean-style small dishes to share—perfect for serving on a warm evening. In Salads & Summer Soups, you’ll find Zucchini, Feta, and Mint Salad, Chorizo and Squid Salad and Iced Gazpacho.

Best-Ever BBQ shows you how to get the best from cooking outdoors over charcoal.

Lemons and Limes Ursula Ferrigno 75 bright and zesty ways to enjoy cooking with citrus.

Synopsis: A glorious selection of dishes that all celebrate the unique sharp and aromatic Try Olive-infused Chicken with Charred burst of lemons and limes. From fresh seafood Lemons or Sicilian-spiced Seabass with to luxurious pasta and heavenly desserts— Grilled Tomatoes and Baby Fennel. Sunshine these citrus fruits can make your food sing.

Lunches features great ideas for light meals and picnics.

A squeeze of lemon can bring a dull sauce or lacklustre soup to life as its tartness cuts Al Fresco has simple yet stunning ideas for through and brings out flavour in a subtler more substantial fare for feeding a crowd (and healthier) way than salt. Smaller, sharper in the fresh air, from simple pastas, such as but more intensely fragrant than lemons, Penne with Melted Ricotta and Herb Sauce limes work with exotic, spicy flavors. Some to Oven-roasted Bell Peppers with Anchovies dishes call for the sharp lift of lemon, at other and Basil. times the richer fragrance of lime is more Finally, there is a chapter of the most appropriate. mouth-watering fresh ideas for Desserts They are both perfect as an antidote to the & Drinks includes Blood Orange and heat of fresh chilli or pungent garlic, the best Amaretto Ice Cream, Caramelized Figs with friend of herbs and olive oil, roasting meat, Vanilla Mascarpone Cream, and homemade and freshly grilled seafood.

Limoncello.

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Their brightness is also perfect in sweet, buttery desserts. http://www.rylandpeters.com/

Seashore Creative Review We love this delightful book, full of the most delicious recipes, Small Bites such as Lemon, Mushroom and Tarragon Arancini or Salmon and Kaffir Lime Fishcakes. Delicious Soups and Salads with a Summer Grain Salad or Pork Dumplings in Lime-leaf Broth. Meat and Poultry is full of hearty yet summery dishes like Spiced Roasted Chicken with Chickpeas, Carrots and Preserved Lemon.

Kids in the Kitchen Amanda Grant More than 50 fun and easy recipes to suit your child’s age and ability Synopsis: Let your kids make their own food with 50 fun recipes that will not only encourage future healthy eating habits but also develop motor skills, cognitive development and self-confidence plus you won’t have to cook!

Children’s reading books, toys and games are often targeted at specific age groups, and this new book by “one of the UK’s leading children’s food educators”, Amanda Grant teaches core cooking skills designed for children aged 3–5 years, 5–7 years, and 7–11 years.

In Vegetables and Sides find Oven Baked Lemon Fennel or Lime and Chilli Sweet Potatoes. In the Sweets and Drinks chapter try a Gin and Tonic Cake or a Mint and Lime Granita. Lastly, in the Sauces and Preserves section learn how to make your own Each skill is presented at the stage when a Preserved Lemons and Limes, Hollandaise child’s development, self-confidence, and independence are ready.

Sauce, and Lime Pickle.

There are also the most fascinating sections examining the history and culture of lemons and limes, their health benefits, and how to grow your own.

With plenty of step-by-step photographs for children to follow and easy, tasty, and fun recipes that they will love to learn, this is an invaluable book for parents to help teach their kids practical kitchen skills that will remain useful throughout life. http://www.rylandpeters.com

Seashore Creative Review The summer holidays are a perfect time to encourage your children to experiment with cooking, there are plenty of opportunities to grow your own ingredients, or to go shopping, and this book is a great starting point.

As well explaining hygiene and kitchen safety, we love the range of recipes and way that this book is targeted at the different age groups.

“..eating the Mediterranean

way is not only delicious but also naturally good for you ..�

- The Mediterranean

table

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Loaf

Loaf delivers that lived-in feel in one laid-back hit with reclaimed wood furniture and beached timber fini fabrics to choose from, you won’t be short on choice.

Stockist: Loaf.com / 0845 459 9937

ishes. Whether you’re after Oyster White clever linen or Brighton Blue plush velvet, with over 140

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The Treasure Trove

The Treasure Trove is a place where you can find shabby chic and vintage furniture with a unique style. With Free UK Delivery, explore our online shop to see what treasures you can find for your home www.thetreasuretrove.co.uk

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hat inspired you working with

to

start glass?

I originally studied painting but I also have a love of architecture, working in glass gives me the opportunity to explore these two passions.

I am also deeply inspired by painting, Mark Rothko and Patrick Heron to name two favourite artists. When I first began working with glass I did not know it was possible to make what I was imagining – something that could be big, spontaneous, fluid, like painting but made out of glass.

I love the play of light; the way the edges of a piece can disappear into the space around it; the clarity of colour; the way glass is both liquid and frozen.

I also have a special interest in making pieces that form an inherent part of the environment, both exterior and interior, lived in and used by people.

What do you love about being based in Suffolk?

I grew up in Suffolk, and although I spent many years living and working in Devon and had a very active and vibrant life there, I have an inbuilt fondness for the place where I lived as a child.

Our children had grown up and left home, (although they do often return) and I felt that I wanted to move to somewhere quieter, where I could focus on my creativity; to explore the places where the rivers meet the sea, the grasslands and the big skies.

Although it may be quieter, I also have access to London and Paris, to be able to visit the galleries.

INTERVIEW

Arabella Marshall, Glass Artist

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Which designs are your personal favourites?

There are two in particular which come to mind, one I created about six years ago, I made it for myself it wasn’t commissioned, but I am really happy with it.

It is a tall, freestanding fused glass panel with a heavy stone base, and the appearance is like being underwater. I think as a piece it works very successfully. The second is a window that I created for an architecturally designed house in Devon, it is a round window in a porch and it used techniques that I had never used before.

What advice do you have for creative businesses based near the coast?

Being near the coast offers artists a wonderful opportunity to be inspired. For any artist or creative business I would also recommend getting connected with other creative people and local organisations in your area.

I have just started working on a public project, installing a contemporary glass piece into a ruined chapel at RSPB Minsmere a nature reserve in Suffolk, and I am exploring who else would be interested in collaborating in this fascinating project. We plan to hold a series of events inspired by the location.

By meeting with others it is also possible to find sources of funding for public works, and identifying other groups who might be operating in your area.

What are your hopes for the future?

I just want my glass practice to keep flourishing - working on bigger projects, more public projects, collaborating with others, keeping a sense of momentum, to continue to have the opportunity to create new and interesting pieces.

When you have time to relax, what are your favourite activities?

Walking, walking, walking! I sometimes walk to my studio if I want to take my time getting there. I love being outside in nature. I also enjoy quiet moments when I just sit still, doing nothing, or reading.

I also am in a choir, which I enjoy immensely. http://arabellamarshall.co.uk

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Suffolk Cottages

Whether you are looking for contemporary chic or classic comfort, Suffolk Cottage Holidays’ stylish, luxu our coastal and countryside cottages are set in some of East Anglia’s finest locations. www.suffolkcottageholidays.com

ury cottages are the very best in Suffolk. In the heart of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty,

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Original Cottages

We are proud to have launched, Original Cottages, bringing together all of the special properties within o of our destinations, we can always find you the perfect, escape you have dreamt of. With over 4000 prop between – let us make a truly unique holiday for you. www.originalcottages.co.uk

our family of local brands. We pride ourselves on having people with local expertise based in all perties to choose from, we have whatever your heart desires – sand, sea, hill, forest, town and all

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interview

LOUISE SINCLAIR MISS MODERN CALLIGRAPHY

What inspired you to set up Miss Modern Calligraphy?

I’ve always been a ‘doodler’ and often sketch whilst on the phone or sitting quietly. As I am left handed and having struggled with my handwriting particularly when using a fountain pen, I didn’t think I would be able to be a calligrapher for fear of smudging my work. I bought a book for my daughter called Nib and Ink and after looking through realised that perhaps I could create faux calligraphy with a normal pen. I loved the freedom of modern calligraphy, you can break all the rules and it still can look amazing.

Late one night when my children were asleep I discovered The Postman’s Knock which had a basic tutorial. That night after a very wobbly effort an instant love affair was born.

From that point on I was hooked and invested time and money in training and practising everyday until I felt confident enough to offer my services. I still keep my first pieces as a reminder of how far I have come. I now use a pointed pen and ink after creating a special way to write at an angle to create the perfect slant lines.

I am now being approached by people to collaborate in styled shoots and have clients contacting me daily to create their calligraphy dreams for them, which is such an honour and a delight.

What excites you most about working in this medium?

The variety is immense, one day I can be writing on hundreds of agate slices, while another day I can be creating a beautiful wedding suite. I create bespoke illustrations and often use watercolour in my designs.

Having always loved art, it’s a wonderful way to tap into my skills. I trained originally in media and after over 15 years working in the digital realm it is a joy to combine both skills. I design by hand and then scan and digitise my work into the computer ready to be printed on to luxury handmade or Italian paper. This is wonderful especially when you want the textures of watercolour or handrawn illustrations for 100+ wedding invitations.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Everywhere! I studied photography at University and I am constantly taking pictures of flowers or textured walls, sunsets, floors, anything that I find interesting or I think could be used in my creations. I love instragram and have made some amazing international calligrafriends who have not only been generous with their time and information they are also encouraging and supportive. I love to research and spend time reading many

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blogs, magazines and have far too many books that have helped me along the way.

What would be a dream project for you to work on?

I love what I do and the excitment of every new project. Whether it is for a wedding or special event, branding, logo design, packaging or even book covers.

I would also love for my work to feature internationally whether a curated collection online or a publication. I have a passion for textures and styling, it would be wonderful to collaborate with a stylist or photographer and to be featured as part of this. I would also like to share my experience with others whether in a book or workshops.

JUST BE ‘IN THE MOMENT’ How would you like to develop in the future?

I am planning to bring out my own font ranges very soon. Having worked with graphic design in the past I am aware that finding that perfect font to match your vision can often be hard to find. Everyday I write with my pen in a variety of ways that I could literally create hundreds of fonts for people to use. Wouldn’t it be lovely to take that handmade uniqueness and turn it into a book cover or packaging for a product or logo?

What do you like to do to relax?

I have been so busy there often isn’t time!

However when I do I love to sit in a pretty riverside cafe with family, drink a gorgeous coffee and enjoy time eating and talking.

I’m aware time is precious and I often take a daily walk to observe nature, the flowers, the air, the sky and to just be ‘in the moment’ www.missmoderncalligraphy.co.uk

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Number One Dart Ma

Number One Dart Marina is an exquisite home in a breath-taking location by the River Dart in Dartmouth within a few steps of Dart Marina Hotel & Spa, perfect for a getaway, see more at www.dartmarina.com/number-one

arina

h, Devon. For an exclusive destination with a stunning combination of views, luxury and style,

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St. Mawes Retreats

Boutique collection of private holiday houses sleeping 2 to 12 in unrivalled luxury in Cornwall on the idyll together or larger groups of families and friends gathering for a special occasion, reunion or holiday. Whe two week holiday we would be delighted to welcome you to St Mawes Retreats. www.stmawesretreats.co.uk

lic Roseland peninsula. Our properties are ideal for 2 to 12 guests, couples looking for a relaxing holiday ether you are looking for a short weekend break of 3 nights, midweek break of 4 nights or a week or

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Developing an eye for natural photography

One of the most joyous things in life is that there are photo opportunities everywhere in our beautiful land and seascapes.

Just go outside and look up; the sky is an ever-changing photo opportunity. Wherever you live there are often the most amazing cloud formations, but by the coast where the sky meets the sea, there are even more stunning examples.

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T

here is something very special about being by the sea, seeing the way the sky joins the sea at the horizon, the wide open spaces, the way every day the colours change, the way the waves change from gentle stillness to an almighty Atlantic roar.

Notice how the texture of the sand changes depending on the location. The treasures that can be found from the tiniest perfectly formed little shell to large pieces of driftwood. Look at the rock formations, notice the patterns.

Sit and watch the way the tides ebb and flow, walk along the beach and turn and capture your own footsteps. Don’t try and capture the surfer riding the perfect wave, focus instead on the water closer to the shore, see the patterns in the turbulence of the water.

Come in closer, and focus in on a delicate flower, look at how nature has created beautiful shapes in the petals, or the way the stamens cluster around the centre of the flower.

If it has recently rained see how the raindrops hover on the petals, or in the early morning the way the dew hangs on spider webs.

Finally, we have the magic of sunsets, across the world we are all hypnotised by the beauty of a perfect sunset. There is a collective “wow” as nature provides its spectacular finale to the day.

START EXPERIMENTING

Shot after shot can be taken; it is like an artist has created a painting in the sky, creating swirls and streaks, the mixture of colour created defy almost every painting palette and technique, ranging from lavender, magenta, orange, to the On a misty foggy morning see how the mists darkest navy and midnight blue. roll back to reveal hidden shapes, or how pops of colour stand out against a misty grey Of course it is possible to learn different background. Watch fishermen preparing their techniques, and to use sophisticated boats before they set off, and how they are equipment, but developing an eye for natural photography is also about recognizing the followed by seagulls on their return. wonderful opportunities that can be achieved When it rains on a sunny day look for the by just stopping and staring and increasing beauty of a rainbow, wait as the intensity of the one’s power of observation. full colours appear, if you are lucky you may get So grab your phone, or that dusty camera a magical double rainbow. sitting in the corner and start experimenting, In photographing nature, you can spend many you may be surprised at the beauty you capture! hours waiting for the perfect shot, sometimes you wait and wait and then turn around and miss it, so always take more photographs than you think you need because just sometimes the camera captures something unexpected, some tiny detail that your eye has missed, which is only revealed when you look more carefully at the image.

Remember too that bending low or standing high can reveal different perspectives.

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The Pier

The Pier stands proudly overlooking the picturesque harbour and the confluence of the Stour and Orwell Harbourside on the first floor of The Pier, is renowned for using locally caught seafood, much of which is lobster and crab are nearly always on the menu served whichever way you’d like. Stay over and capture t must! www.milsomhotels.com/thepier

l rivers. Long established in Harwich, the hotel boasts four stars with two rosettes for cooking. The s landed in the harbour opposite. Our Head Chef takes much of his influence from the sea so Harwich the ambience of this delightful old town, a night in The Mayflower suite, complete with telescope is a

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Sykes Cottages

Sykes Cottages offers over 7,500 handpicked holiday cottages across the UK & Ireland. Having grown t 25 years’ experience helping you find your dream holiday home. www.sykescottages.co.uk

to be one of the nation’s leading independent holiday cottage agencies, we have more than

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making memories

Family holidays by the sea are a wonderful way of encouraging your children to develop a love of the outdoors and playing safely by the sea.

Despite the sometimes long journey to get there, nothing quite beats that moment as you reach your destination and everyone tumbles out of the car with the feeling of excitement and anticipation. Our senses suddenly awaken, with the smells, tastes, and textures, the air feels cleaner and we can breathe!

We have the most amazing coastline and summer is a wonderful time for creating childhood memories, it is often the simple and innocent activities that stay in our minds.

Younger children love the freedom of space, watch them run around, feeling the sheer exuberance at being able to race around on the sand, and running in and out of the waves.

Building sand castles, creating moats, watching and waiting for the water to surround them, all have a fascination for little ones.

Even older children and adults can be persuaded to put down their technology and to play beach games, or learn to surf. At the beach, there are often a myriad of delights that can be seen along the shoreline, in rock pools, or crabbing at the end of a quay. Always be mindful of safe bathing, the incoming tide and respect the environment. If you get the opportunity you can also take part in organized beach cleans. Many holiday locations have treasure trails, where you walk around a town or village, looking for clues. In the absence of this, you can always create your own trail. Make it family based, older children can help their younger siblings, the older ones can read the clues, the younger ones may often be more observant.

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If you are on holiday, rainy days can be more of a challenge, but carrying a pack of cards can often extend time spent over meals particularly if you choose to eat at a less busy time and you find a quiet corner.

For something different you may want to try encouraging their creativity, writing, drawing, or painting, perhaps have a collection of short titles to fuel their imagination, or start a short paragraph and encourage their storytelling, make it fun, rather than feeling like schoolwork! There may also be craft classes either near your home, or when you are on holiday where you can go and be creative as a family.

For home-based activities a trip to your local garden centre can quickly yield the opportunity to find things to grow and nurture, younger children in particular love to create miniature, or fairy gardens, particularly if messages are left overnight and the fairies respond!!

To increase everyone’s power of observation why not look for letters of the alphabet, shapes, or faces in their surroundings, and take photographs of them, you will be amazed at what you can find once you start looking with an open mind.

For children who normally have their eyes focused on their gadgets, encouraging observation can be both restful and fun; looking for shapes in the clouds can lessen the boredom of a car journey, or lying on a blanket looking skywards.

Most of us have memories of eating on the beach, complete with sand! But taking a hot drink, warm blankets and watching the sun go down can be a wonderful way of ending the day.

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Quality Cottages

The tight knit family business based in North Pembrokeshire represents over 300 fabulous holiday prope began their business even before the Welsh Tourist Board existed and when they finally caught up Qualit in Wales, probably setting the benchmark for future standards. www.qualitycottages.co.uk

erties throughout the most stunning coastal, countryside and mountainous regions of Wales. They ty Cottages was the first company to be awarded a gold medal for services to self catering holidays

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Carbis Bay Holidays

Carbis Bay Holidays specialise in luxury 4 & 5 star self catering accommodation in St Ives and Carbis Bay, they are proud to offer a selection of over 150 properties. Short breaks available. enquiries@carbisbayholidays.co.uk 01736 630015 www.carbisbayholidays.co.uk

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W

hat was the inspiration behind SeaKisses?

The coast and the faded colours of life by the sea are the start points for everything we design. We reflect the simplicity and happiness of a laid back, beachside life. Our roots are in surfing, sailing and chilling with friends on the beach. We are not a stuffy, formal idea of the Maritime.

Walking on the beach everyday, you quickly see the vast amount of plastic that gets washed in by the tides. We work hard to use sustainable materials that offer alternatives to single use plastic, without compromising on design or practicality.

Our Travel Cups are made from Bamboo Fibre which will eventually compost back to nothing and our Jute Bags are the same.

They look great, they work better than their plastic alternatives and they are brimming with seaside happiness.

What do you love about being based in Cornwall?

As well as proximity to the sea, fresh air and breathtaking landscapes, this is also a surprisingly easy place to do new things.

There are some fantastically inspirational businesses based in Cornwall.

Brands like Finisterre, Eden, Crowdfunder have all been prepared to do things differently and they are a real inspiration to us. We have met lots of interesting businesses dotted round the coast run by people hungry for new things and they have all helped us develop our ideas.

Access to Superfast Broadband definitely makes everything easier and the fantastic development of Falmouth University has put creativity on the map down here.

Which has been your most popular design?

One of our first ever designs was about Cornwall. It’s called Wild Seas and it has been enduringly popular on cards, prints, bags and towels. The simplicity of the text, the sense of fun and the faded, seaside colour captures what people love about this piece of the coast.

What advice do you have for businesses based near the coast?

Make the most of the environment around you, don’t be afraid of behaving differently and go for a swim everyday!

What are your hopes for the future of Sea Kisses?

INTERVIEW SUE HAWKEN, DIRECTOR, SEAKISSES LIMITED

That we can continue to put seaside happiness into more and more people’s everyday lives with well designed, clever and useful products that don’t cost the earth.

When you have time to relax, what are your favourite activities?

We don’t think that much beats a cup of tea in a sunny spot on the beach - and if that cup of tea comes after a swim, a surf or a kayak adventure, then it will taste even better. www.seakisses.co.uk

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St. Brides Bay Cottag

St Brides Bay Cottages offers delightful cottages in superb locations around the North Pembrokeshire Co scenery is spectacular, the air is crystal fresh and the villages are full of character. The rugged beauty off www.stbridesbaycottages.com

ges

oast. “Welcome” might be a small word, but here it has a very big meaning. The fers the perfect backdrop for a real get-away-from-it-all holiday.

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Toad Hall Cottages

For nearly 30 years, we’ve been helping guests find the perfect Westcountry holiday cottages. With over got something for everyone. We can even accommodate your four-legged friend as over half of our prope hearing from you. www.toadhallcottages.co.uk

700 properties throughout Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset and the New Forest, we’ve erties welcome dogs. Visit our website or give us a call on 01548 202020 – we look forward to

TEN TOP READS FOR SUMMER Lying on the beach, or relaxing at home, here is a selection of delightfully escapist books to read this summer.

Can Christie find her happy ending in . . .

Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses Buy Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses from Amazon.co.uk

Paper Hearts and Summer Kisses Carole Matthews Synopsis: Christie Chapman is a single working mother who spends her days commuting to her secretarial job in London and looking after her teenage son, Finn. It can be tough just getting through the day but Christie has always found comfort in her love of crafting and any spare time she has is spent in her parents’ summerhouse working on her beautiful creations.

The Forever House Veronica Henry Synopsis: An irresistibly feel-good story set in the Cotswolds from bestseller Veronica Henry, all about why home really is where the heart is. Would you know your forever house if you found it? Hunter’s Moon is the ultimate ‘forever’ house. Nestled by a river in the Peasebrook valley, it has been the Willoughbys’ home for over fifty years, and now estate agent Belinda Baxter is determined to find the perfect family to live there. But the sale of the house unlocks decades of family secrets – and brings Belinda face to face with her own troubled past.

All of a sudden Christie sees a different future for her and Finn – one full of hope and possibility, and if the handsome Max Alexander is to be believed, one full of love too. It’s all there for the taking.

And then, all of sudden, Christie’s world is turned upside down. Christie knows that something has to give, but what will she choose? Will she give up her dreams and the chance of real love? What price will she pay https://www.amazon.co.uk/ for doing the right thing?

The Summer of Impossible Things Rowan Coleman Synopsis: If you could change the past would you? It’s only after her mother’s death that Luna discovers the secrets that she has been hiding for thirty years. Now she and her sister must travel to their mother’s childhood home and settle her affairs.

But when she finds the perfect house in the small town of Ballykiltara, there’s a problem; nobody seems to know who owns it.

‘The Welcome House’ is a local legend. Its front door is always open for those in need of shelter, and there’s always a plentiful supply of food in the cupboards for the hungry or poor.

While Ren desperately tries to find the owner But in Brooklyn something impossible to see if she can negotiate a sale, she begins happens to Luna. She finds herself in 1977, face to delve deeper into the history and legends to face with her mother as a young woman, in that surround the old house and the town. the week that changed her life forever.

But for a woman who has always been To save a life would you sacrifice your own? focused on her work, she’s remarkably distracted by Finn, the attractive manager of https://www.amazon.co.uk/ the local hotel.

The Summer of Serendipity

But will she ever discover the real truth Ali McNamara behind the mysterious ‘Welcome House’? Or Synopsis: One summer, property seeker, will the house cast its magical spell over Ren Serendipity Parker finds herself on the and help her to find true happiness? beautiful west coast of Ireland, hunting for a https://www.amazon.co.uk/ home for a wealthy Irish client.

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Holiday In The Hamptons

In wartime Cornwall, 1943, a story between two sisters begins - the story of Adele and Sarah Morgan Amelia, and the heart-breaking betrayal Synopsis: She’s moved on… that will divide them forever. Decades later, Felicity Knight loves New York. But when she the efforts of one reckless act still echo but how long will it be until their past returns? spots her ex-husband in the city, Fliss is desperate to escape!

He’s moved back!

The Returning Tide will sweep you away to the beautiful Cornish coast, full of secrets and mystery.

Vet Seth Carlyle is back from California to https://www.amazon.co.uk/ establish his own practice and settle down.

When he learns that his ex Fliss still lives close by, that future is looking a whole lot brighter. Will a perfect escape bring them back together? With the help of his adorable dog Lulu, and a sprinkling of beachside magic, Seth is determined to make Fliss see he’s never stopped loving her! https://www.amazon.co.uk/

The Returning Tide Liz Fenwick Synopsis: Two sisters and one betrayal that will carry across generations.

Meet me at Beachcomber Bay Jill Mansell

One magical summer Nell fell in love in the mountains of Crete and her life changed for ever.

Synopsis: Love is in the air in St Carys, but Eighteen years later, Nell is ready for a new you’d never know it - the people of this seaside beginning. When she sees a honey farm in town are very good at keeping secrets... the same hilltop town has lost its bees, the The man Clemency loves belongs to someone opportunity is impossible to resist. Welcomed else. She has to hide her true feelings - but back to Greece by the warm sun and aroma when she ropes in an unsuspecting friend to of wild thyme, Nell finds memories of her past help, wires start to get crossed. For the first at every turn. But much has changed since time in Ronan’s life his charm has failed him she’s been away. in winning over the woman he wants. Loving As Nell throws herself into restoring the her from afar appears to be his only option. honey farm, she starts to unlock the truth of Belle seems to have the perfect boyfriend, but what happened all those years ago. She soon something isn’t quite right. And now a long- learns that the course of true love - just like Cretan honey - can be wild and sweet. And buried secret is slowly rising to the surface. well worth the wait...

The truth has a funny way of revealing itself, and when it does St Carys will be a very https://www.amazon.co.uk/ different place indeed... https://www.amazon.co.uk/

The Honey Farm on the Hill

Our Summer Together Fanny Blake

Jo Thomas

Synopsis: Our Summer Together is an uplifting Sometimes you have to go back before you story about family, friendship and the happy surprise of finding love later in life. can move forwards...

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Caro knows how to be a mother - advising her grown-up daughters on career and relationship worries. She knows how to be a grandmother - enjoying the hectic energy of her three-year-old grandson.

baby. Adopted but then later rejected again by a horrid step-mother, Alice struggles to find a place where she belongs.

She thought she knew everything about being a wife, but when her husband suddenly leaves her for another woman, everything is thrown in the air.

So it seems natural that when she finally decides to return to Haworth, Alice turns to baking again, taking over a run-down little teashop and working to set up an afternoon tea emporium.

Only baking – the scent of cinnamon and citrus and the feel of butter and flour between She knows how to be a daughter - helping her fingers – brings a comforting sense of her aging mother retain her independence. home.

So, when a chance meeting introduces her to Damir - younger, intriguing and attentive - she realises that opening up to a man so different from everyone else in her life, might also mean getting to know who she really is... https://www.amazon.co.uk/

Luckily she soon makes friends – including a Grecian god-like neighbour – who help her both set up home and try to solve the mystery of who she is. There are one or two last twists in the dark fairytale of Alice’s life to come . . . but can she find her happily ever after? https://www.amazon.co.uk/

The Little Teashop of Lost and Found Trisha Ashley Synopsis: Alice Rose is a foundling, discovered on the Yorkshire moors above Haworth as a

Holidays by the Sea THE SUN RISES AND THE MISTS ROLL BACK THE FISHING BOATS ARE LEAVING HEADING OUT TO SEA THE EARLY MORNING BAKERIES ARE OPENING, SPREADING DELICIOUS SMELLS AROUND THE HARBOUR FAMILIES ARE PREPARING FOR A DAY ON THE BEACH PICNICS PACKED, BUCKETS AND SPADES GATHERED WETSUITS ON AND SURFBOARDS WAXED ‘SANDY’ SANDWICHES FOLLOWED BY ICE CREAMS ON THE BEACH CASTLES BUILT AND WAVES CAUGHT AFTERNOON CREAM TEA BECKONS FISH AND CHIPS FOR SUPPER SNUGGLE IN BLANKETS TO WATCH THE SUN GO DOWN HAPPY DAYS

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