Seen Mag 10

june / july seenmag.co.uk

issue ten free

Wedding Preparation

High Summer

Liverpool Pride

Memory Lane

We speak to the experts The countdown begins

Fashion must haves Liverpool history

one spectacular venue cocktail bar restaurant entertainment private rooms take the time out to come and visit sakura where an evenings’ entertainment is awaiting you.

0151 236 2113 / www.sakuraliverpool.com / exchange flags, liverpool, l2 3yl /

&

sakuraliverpool

civil partnership venue contemporary & sophisticated teppanykai tables champagne reception floating japanese inspired canapĂŠs reserve an appointment with matradee joseph on 0151 236 2113

0151 236 2113 / www.sakuraliverpool.com / exchange flags, liverpool, l2 3yl /

&

sakuraliverpool

Smile Makeovers

Porcelain Veneers • Gum Contouring and Teeth Reshaping Dental Implants • Extractions • Sedation • Teeth Whitening • White Fillings Orthodontics • Invisalign • Straight Smiles in up to 6 months • Dental Hygiene Perio Surgery • Dentures • General Dentistry • Fine Line and Wrinkle Treatments •

PAIN FREE, Life Transformational Dentistry for Busy People

Smile with pride this summer ...with these Life Transformational offers from The Liverpool Dental Spa. Teeth whitening from ONLY £149.

Your smile is one of the first things people always notice about you. Discoloured teeth can be noticeable and leave you feeling unconfident.

Bright white teeth on the other hand make you look attractive, confident and happy, but you already know that.

Teeth whitening can make you feel more attractive, confident and content to let you smile with pride this summer.

Whitening for only £149, exclusively available at The Liverpool Dental Spa (only while stocks last).

0% interest FREE finance.

0% Interest FREE finance for all your dental treatments (T&C’s apply).

Do you want straight teeth, white teeth or the smile of your dreams? Ring and ask our Smile Advisors for details.

FREE Six Step Smile Audit.

Are you interested in Life Transformational Dentistry?

Ask our Smile Advisors about how you can claim your FREE Six Step Smile Audit and find your dream smile at The Liverpool Dental Spa (normally £110) Limited places available.

I can tell you that fear and pain is no longer something I associate with the dentist and that’s all down to The Liverpool Dental Spa! I would NEVER go anywhere else. EVER!!

Liz McClarnon CONTACT 0151 236 8280 info@liverpoolimplants.co.uk www.liverpoolimplants.co.uk 23-25 Brunswick Street Liverpool City Centre, L2 0PJ

Seen Media, Second Floor Unity Building, 20 Chapel Street Liverpool, L3 9AG 0151 515 0613 www.seenmag.co.uk

june / july issue ten

TEAM

Director & Editor Rebecca Keegan

LETTER FROM

THE DIRECTORS

We’ve hit quite a milestone this year, as we are celebrating our 10th issue of Seen Magazine. After two years working with businesses and residents of Merseyside, we have both been so proud to produce Seen along with our team and we are delighted to have established such a high quality product and reputation.

We are also beginning to get geared up for the third Liverpool Pride Festival. It only seems like yesterday when we were hearing sarcastic remarks about how Liverpool’s gay community isn’t strong enough for its own Pride event and it would never work – boy were these people proved wrong.

Rebecca@seenmag.co.uk

Director & Sales Tony Burns

Tony@seenmag.co.uk

Marketing Lee Joseph Hagan Lee@seenmag.co.uk

Columnists & Contributors Andy Green Chris Danks Joan Burnett John McGuire Bill Elms

Website Natasha Starr Natasha@seenmag.co.uk

People come out (pardon the pun) in their thousands for the event and we can’t wait to celebrate it again as official media partners for the third time running on August 4. Both the Pier Head and the Stanley Street Quarter will be alive with music, bursts of colour and of course nautical themed fancy dress as far as the eye can see!

In this issue we bring you some of the most beautiful fashion pages yet, with hot clothing line Unconditional. Known nationally for dressing some of the sexiest celebs in show business, we think the togs are perfect for the fabulous people of Merseyside. With the summer months being popular for the wedding season, we have included a civil partnership section of the magazine giving ideas, advice, and some very special stories.

We have welcomed several new clients into Seen Magazine lately, all of whom we are very excited to be adding to our portfolio of long lasting and effective marketing campaigns.

Mix this with our high value, strong editorial content and you have in your hands a glossy and entertaining magazine.

As always we want to hear what you think of the latest edition and anything you would like to see included Have a fantastic few months and we will see you at Liverpool Pride!

Rebecca & Tony Directors

Design Jonathan Holden jonathan@concept22.co.uk

Account Manager Robert Mogsa Robert.mogsa@seenmag.co.uk

seenmag.co.uk

@seen_magazine

seen magazine

fabulous, urbane and dog friendly Hope Street Hotel and her sister, The London Carriage Works restaurant, make a stylish partnership for your celebrations; we have event rooms of charm and rooms with views; breathtaking panoramas of the city below, panning from the Welsh Mountains out to the Irish Sea.

*

Book for a two course pre fixe or a la carte and we’ll welcome SEEN fans with a free glass of Prosecco.

We love civil ceremonies, anniversaries, birthdays, weddings, a good party; we love product launches, businesses networking, private dining and away days; we love good food, good wine, good dogs, all children and Liverpool.

We have huge beds with crisp white Egyptian cotton sheets, goose down pillows, warmed solid wood floors, rain dance showers, REN toiletries, complimentary Pellegrino and Panna water, 24 hours of room service, a classic movie library and free WiFi throughout. The London Carriage Works uses the best and freshest ingredients, carefully choosing wines for every occasion and to top the lot we have staff who enjoy a challenge while keeping the personal touch.

Rooms can be from £89.00 and prix fixe £15 for two courses, contact us on 0151 709 3000 for rooms, celebrations, dinner reservations and events.

Go on, scan me...

Hotel of the year 2010 and 2011, The Mersey Partnership Annual Tourism Awards.

Taste of the year 2011, The Mersey Partnership Annual Tourism Awards.

Best Value Urban UK Hotel – The Sunday Times Travel VFM Awards 2011.

Two AA Rosettes 2010, 2011, 2012

www.hopestreethotel.co.uk www.thelondoncarriageworks.co.uk

life Cunningham 22Elaine How to merge tastes

contents

june /july issue ten

Cover Artwork by Thom Morgan

news News 10World LGBT news form around the globe Perk / Famous coffee house 12Central comes to Liverpool

and Stephen 28Robbie Happier than ever on Seen 33Green History has been made

style of desire 36Objects Win designer sunglasses

38Afternoon tea in style Hotel Indigo

pride

40Unconditional New look fashion pages

from our sponsor 15ATheword Lisbon

view

16

Anchors Away!

Festival details

history 54Gay An inspirational story One 59Take Joan Burnett’s film reviews Cheese 60Say Pictures of events in Liverpool

of Pride 19Voice We speak to main stage act

The First ever UK Outlet is

NOW OPEN

Weekdays 8am – 6pm.

Special event nights, Fridays and Saturdays we will remain open until 9pm, and longer if the demand is there.

Special events will include: Open Mic Nights / Live Music Nights / Book Club / Classic Episode + Film Nights The La Di Da Tea Parties Every last Sunday of the month with entry costing ÂŁ20 per person.

Hatton Garden, Liverpool, L3 2HB www.central-perk.co.uk

10

news

Merseyside is continuing to move forward with new developments that are putting us on the map. In our news section this month we look at the newest and hottest opening in the city of Liverpool – Central Perk.

An almost exact replica of the famous ‘Friends’ coffee

12

house Central Perk has opened in Hatton Garden and it’s been surrounded by excitement.

On top of this, as usual, we look at the LGBT news from around the globe in our world news pages.

seenmag.co.uk

news 09

WORLD

NEWS LGBT news from around the globe

10

news

seenmag.co.uk

India’s largest transgender festival begins

Denmark Gay bar bans straight couples from kissing

Koovagam, the largest transgender festival in India, and in Asia, has opened in the eponymous village near the south Indian town of Villupuram, roughly 160 km southwest of Chennai. The annual celebrations, also known as KuthandavarAravan Festival, constitute a tradition that is thought to be centuries old, though it has become more well-known in recent years thanks to online popularity, and increasing visibility of LGBT campaigns in India.

A gay bar in Copenhagen has confirmed it barred straight couples from kissing at the establishment. Jobbe Joller, the founder of the LGBT organization Homosocialt Fællesskab, told Homotropolis a bouncer at the Never Mind bar in the Danish capital told a woman in his party she could not kiss her boyfriend. Confronting the bouncer, he said: “The bouncer replied that it was unacceptable to conduct in that kind of behaviour at a gay place and that Never Mind receives a lot of emails from its gay guests concerning the high number of straight guests that visit the bar. I asked him if it was not the same as saying that black people are not allowed to kiss in Never Mind, but he disagreed and told me that the owner of Never Mind may decide who can kiss and who can’t kiss in the bar.”

The bar’s owner told Homotropolis the party was not barred permanently, adding: “It is quite clear that gay bars in Copenhagen attract many straight people and that in itself is also okay, but when you come with 3, 4, or 5 straight friends you no longer fit into a gay bar.”

Police arrest gay rights activists in St Petersburg Russian police have arrested seventeen gay rights activists during a May Day rally in St Petersburg, which recently passed a law that banned what it called ‘homosexual propaganda.‘ According to the Guardian, members of the group were detained when they attempted to unfurl rainbow flags at the rally, organised by opposition groups, and, it is understood that they will be charged with failing to co-operate with police officers.

Gay convictions can be wiped out Gay men who have homophobic convictions will now be able to have them removed from their record. Men charged with historic convictions such as cruising and buggery can apply to have their convictions removed under the Protection of Freedoms act which was given royal assent in parliament at the beginning of May.

seenmag.co.uk

Catholic pupils ‘invited to sign anti-gay marriage petition’

Ireland ‘missed opportunity to protect LGBT employees’ in Seanad vote The Gay and Lesbian Equality Network in Ireland has expressed disappointment at the defeat of the Employment Equality (Amendment) Bill 2012 in the Seanad.

The Bill, brought forward by Senator Averil Power of Fianna Fáil, sought to amend Section 37.1 of the Employment Equality Act 1998 to remove any prospect of employees in religious run institutions being discriminated against.

Obama: Extending marriage to gay couples will ‘strengthen families’ President Barack Obama has continued to speak out in favour of equal marriage while attending a celebrity laden fundraiser in New York.After being introduced by openly gay star Ricky Martin, President Obama said that all people are “equal in terms of dignity and in terms of respect.”

Obama added: “I want everyone treated fairly in this country. We have never gone wrong when we’ve extended rights and responsibilities to everybody. That doesn’t weaken families; that strengthens families.”

Education Secretary Michael Gove is to examine claims the Catholic Education Service (CES) broke impartiality rules on the topic of gay marriage. It has emerged that the CES wrote to nearly 400 state-funded Roman Catholic schools inviting them to back a petition against gay civil marriage.

Schools and teachers are forbidden to promote one-sided political arguments.

The CES has denied breaking any laws, saying Catholic views on marriage are religious, not political.

news 11

Coffee with Friends.

12

t just 23-years-old, Kane Russell is heading up one of Liverpool’s most exciting new offerings. Seen Magazine went along to find out what it’s all about.

“We knew the following of Friends was huge,” Kane tells Seen. “We have been so busy here every day since opening in April. It’s unbelievable, people have even been visiting from other cities just to get their photograph taken outside.”

The infamous Central Perk coffee house has been seen by millions on the TV sitcom Friends. We’ve all heard of it and some have dreamed that one day they will get the opportunity to sit on ‘that’ couch drinking coffee. For the first time in Britain it’s become a permanent reality, with Central Perk Liverpool opening.

Based in the city centre, Central Perk offers a wide variety of food and drink – all of it has a small twist though; “It’s all American,” adds Kane. “We wanted the coffee house to be as close to the one in the programme as possible so we import chocolate, root beer, cool aide, specialist coffee and much more from the United States and it’s been so well accepted. The beauty of Liverpool people is that they embrace change and give new things a go.”

news

The area where Central Perk is based has a big student residency, so Kane says they wanted to make sure everything is reasonably priced. “What ever people think, this is a part of this city. It doesn’t have ‘tourist attraction’ high prices, we cater for everyone as I want this to be a place where people will visit time and time again and enjoy it. “

seenmag.co.uk

Review.

Being the connoisseur of food and coffee in Liverpool, not to mention an avid F.R.I.E.N.D.S fan, I couldn’t wait to get my ass in there! I tried on opening day but couldn’t get in. I convinced myself that I was ahead of the game and selfishly wouldn’t start spreading the word until I’d been, just to make sure there was a seat there for me!

So a few days later, I get there just prior to the midday rush of local workers, no doubt wanting to have dinner in the UK’s first Central Perk Coffee House!

On entry it catapults you into the series with identical furnishings not to mention the large screen constantly playing F.R.I.E.N.D.S. There was a very warm approach from staff, eager to please their customers. There’s definitely an authenticity about it that is deeply nostalgic and let’s be honest watching

seenmag.co.uk

the show always seems to bring back good memories; lest we forget that the show ran from 1994 until 2006!

So, to eat, I had a nice poppy seed bagel with salmon and cream cheese with the most amazing tasting coffee.

Although it’s just before my holidays I just couldn’t resist having a raspberry cupcake to compliment the coffee.

A flood of people came to sample the place and there were smiles all round; a great ambience and definitely a haven for friends to meet and catch up!

So Liverpool, get down there, enjoy the atmosphere and nostalgia and spread the word of Central Perk Liverpool!

Michael Dwyer

news 13

16

pride As we are set to celebrate Liverpool’s third Pride festival in just a few months, we have put together some info about this year’s festival.

We are very pleased that Liverpool’s oldest gay bar The Lisbon have come on board to sponsor and support this feature.

19

Eileen and the team at the bar have supported Seen Magazine since our infancy, and we know how much community means to them. Their constant understanding of what pulling together and supporting others really means is inspirational – they are the perfect example of what Liverpool Pride is all about.

With a theme of Nautical but Nice, it’s expected to be bigger than ever before. Both the official pride team and the Stanley Street team are working together this year, which shows that when it really matters, our scene will join forces to deliver the best they can. That’s what community is all about.

Do make sure you get down to The Lisbon before Pride, they are offering special shots to raise money for the festival but be warned – they’re not for the faint hearted!

seenmag.co.uk

pride 15

Anchors Away!

Ahoy Matey! Prepare to way anchor and set sail, Liverpool Pride, the UK’s biggest FREE Pride event outside of London is going nautical for its third annual celebration of all things LGBT, to be held on Sat 4 August. iverpool Pride 2012 will take place at Liverpool’s iconic pier-head and throughout the Stanley Street Gay Quarter.

In addition to this, there will be a weekend of cultural events taking place at some of Liverpool’s most influential arts and cultural establishments.

Liverpool Pride came about following the launch of the LGB&T Network, at which the public voted for a Pride festival to engage, empower and involve the LGB&T communities within the city.

This was fully endorsed by Liverpool City Council in January 2009. Following a number of high profile attacks in the city, the event was established in 2010 and now takes place each year to coincide with the anniversary of murdered gay teenager Michael Causer.

In just two years, Liverpool Pride has established itself as one of the major highlights in the city and the wider LGBT community’s summer calendar. Bursting onto the scene in 2010, the inaugural Liverpool Pride festival attracted over 20,000 people, which was doubled to over 44,000 in 2011. For 2012 Festival organisers are promising the best event yet, a festival which Liverpool’s

LGBT community is proud of, attracting people from across the country to experience the diverse culture of one of Europe’s most exciting cities.

The festival’s ‘Nautical but Nice’ theme, chosen in a ballot by 700 members of the local LGBT community, gives a nod to the city’s commemoration of the 100 year anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, whilst at the same time, celebrating the city’s rich maritime history and taking advantage of the main festival site, which sits on the banks of the River Mersey.

The undoubted highlight of the festival, the Pride March gives the LGBT community, their friends and their families the chance to parade through Liverpool’s streets in a blaze of colour, music and, this year, seamen (and women), whilst raising awareness of homophobia in the local area. Last year, over 3,500 people took part in the Liverpool Pride March including gay bars, shops, restaurants, political organisations, Trade Unions, Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service in addition to many individuals and their nearest and dearest.

6000 people turned out to cheer on marchers in 2011, a number which is also expected to grow in 2012. Organisers are expecting an even larger crowd to take part this year and so are advising anyone who wants to take part to apply early.

16

pride

seenmag.co.uk

The march is completely free to join and Individuals, groups and organisations are invited to take part by registering online at www.liverpoolpride.co.uk/march before 31st July.

Marchers are encouraged to dress up in line with the theme, although this is not obligatory, so start thinking about costumes and entries now! Think outside the box and be as creative as possible bearing in mind the diversity of the Sea faring theme.

From Pirates of the Caribbean to Captain Pugwash, Jack and Rose aboard the Titanic to The Queen’s Jubilee Pageant, Captain Morgan’s to Old Navy, Stowaways, Ships Boys and Cabin Girls, mermaids and sea creatures, Miss Molly Malone and her cockles and muscles, Elizabeth Swann, swashbuckling heroines of the sea, certain Disney villains, ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’ and of course ferries across the Mersey.

seenmag.co.uk

Think about the uniforms & fashions, the music, shanties and songs, films, celebrities, television shows and any events, which may take place on water. There is a wealth of ideas to choose from, and a number of different ways in which to celebrate this fantastic theme!

Zoran Blackie, Chair of Liverpool Pride said “I’m really pleased about the Nautical but Nice theme for this year, with the Titanic centenary and our plans to have the main stage at the Pier Head, one of the best known waterfronts in the world. I can’t wait to see what creative ideas our supporters and pride-goers are going to come up with. This is what Pride is all about for me – showing the world that we’re proud of who we are and where we are, that the LGBT community is part of what makes Liverpool great” Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson said: “The Liverpool Pride festival is a huge success and a fantastic celebration of the incredible diversity that exists in the city. It shows that Liverpool is a welcoming and

diverse place to visit, and contributes to the economic success of the city by encouraging people to come and spend money which boosts trade and sustains jobs.”

Paddy Jones, event officer for Gay Quarter Pride and Liverpool Pride Trustee said: “I’m delighted to have joined the Liverpool Pride team and be working together with the community and venues in Stanley Street, Cumberland Street and Eberle Street to make this our city’s biggest and best Pride so far!”

Make sure you check out liverpoolpride.co.uk, @PrideLiverpool on Twitter and search Liverpool Pride on Facebook to have your say and for all of the latest pride news.

pride 17

A VOICE OF PRIDE Seen Magazine speaks to one of the acts due to perform at this year’s Pride Festival.

22-year-old Paul Thomas is currently recording his debut album working with the team behind JLS, Tulisa and Sugababes.

Tell us a little bit more about you…

My name’s Paul Thomas I’m a new pop R’n’B artist and signed a major management deal with Fierce Management back in September 2011. I used be semi pro football player Huddersfield Town.

What are you working on at the moment?

What does the future hold for you, where can we see you next?

I should have the album ready and finished for release by the end of the year and I have a number of big performances lined up.

I’ll be performing live at the finals of ‘Face of Europe’, I’ve got a major showcase in London on August 1.

I’m currently recording my debut album at the moment and I’ve signed a number of production deals with some of the UK’s biggest producers who are working for labels such as AATW, Universal and Sony. I’m co writing the whole album and I’ve been writing with some amazing people including the team behind JLS and writers who have worked on stuff for Tulisa, Sugababes and Dappy. I’m really excited about the sound I’m creating and can’t wait to it out there for every one to hear.

What’s your favorite thing about performing at Pride Festivals?

How excited are you to be performing at Liverpool Pride 2012 and what can we expect from your performance?

It’s all about the buzz of taking a song I’ve written and performing it live in front of an audience and seeing their reaction it best feeling in the world!

The best thing about performing at a Pride festival is the crowd it one of the best audiences you can ever play in front of, they go wild!

What’s your favourite thing about performing?

I can’t wait for my performance at Liverpool Pride, it’s going be an amazing crowd. I’ll actually be performing some of the tracks I’ve written for the album for the first time and I’m planning quite big entrance with backing dancers from Dance Dynamix. I really want to get the crowd bouncing!

seenmag.co.uk

pride 19

22

life

In our special feature for this issue we look at civil partnerships. It’s wedding season and we’ve spoken to some of the city’s experts in everything you need to know before your special day.

We also revisit a couple that we spoke to in our very first

28

edition – Robbie and Stephen Lancaster-Frankland. A couple who we interviewed before their civil partnership back in 2010 and they are happier now than ever.

This along with a fantastic feature on Paris makes our life section our best yet.

30

seenmag.co.uk

life 21

MERGING TASTES Having moved in a house with my partner several years ago now I remember how difficult it was to merge our two different styles of furniture and juggle our different interior decoration ideas.

Tony Burns talk to the experts about some of the pitfalls of moving in and combining new and existing home styles.

Pictured: Elaine Cunningham Home Store 22-24 Chapel Street, Liverpool L3 9AG Interiors / 390-392 Aigburth Road, Liverpool, L19 3QD www.elainecunninghaminteriors.com

ABOVE Interior design services available upon request.

ABOVE Spirit Chandelier £299

RIGHT Mirror £699 Turbine Range: Dining Table £1,999 Arm Chair £499 Chair £299

Picture the scene, a loving couple out on a Saturday afternoon together, what started off as a “Let’s go shopping together darling” ends up with a scene from a war movie with both parties vowing never to speak to each other again. We have all seen it and felt their pain and embarrassment. “It can actually be a good thing when couples clash”, says Elaine Cunningham one of the city’s best known and loved designers who has even made TV appearances giving advice on how to make the best of your home. “The process can actually help couples come to an agreement and they may both compromise and decide on an idea they might otherwise not of thought of.”

seenmag.co.uk

Although you wouldn’t think it to look at her, Elaine has over 30 years experience in the retail industry and it certainly shows when you speak to her, even her hobbies involve interiors and fashion.

She has travelled all over the world which can only add to her knowledge and depth of experience she can offer when transforming your house into a home.

“I have a passion for furniture and interiors” says Elaine who has three stores; Elaine Cunningham Interiors in Aigburth and two Elaine Cunningham home stores in the city centre.”The first thing for couples to do when thinking of interior design is to have a plan of action and set a budget. “I have seen people make some very costly design mistakes and waste valuable money, I would advise anybody if they are thinking of a design project to book a consultation with a designer who will guide them through the process.”

I’ve got to be honest I have walked past the store on Chapel Street in the city centre many times and always looked at the wonderful things in the window thinking they would be far too expensive so imagine my surprise when I visited and saw sofas from as little as £499 bedroom furniture from as little as £99 and exclusive accessories from £4.99 and all at the quality that you would see in Laura Ashley or John Lewis. “I source my materials from all over the U.K. Italy, Spain and even as far America.”

It’s hard enough getting to know somebody’s habits when you move in together why worry about merging your design ideas? My tip is leave it to the experts!

life 23

Sharron Simons from Liverpool Malmaison speaks to Seen Magazine about her role at the chic hotel and what it involves. She also fills us in on the exclusive civil partnership packages they have to offer.

Spotlight on Sharon Simons – Liverpool Mal What is your role at Malmaison? I am the Sales Manager here responsible for looking after the corporate bookings, VIPs and local marketing/PR. It’s a varied role so there is something different to do every day!

The Malmaison is known for being exclusive with celebrity guests often staying. Can you give us an idea of any high profile people guests you have dealt with? Any strange demands? I can’t disclose who has stayed but they range from the world of sports, entertainment, politics and media. One request we had was could we change the air outside of the hotel; the hotels he was used to in Hollywood had oxygen pumping outside!

What makes Malmaison Liverpool so unique compared to other Liverpool hotels? We are not a run of the mill bland white walled hotel, we provide an experience. Mal dares to be different from the décor to the customer service. You can be whoever you want to be here.

*Any Monday in November & December 2012 *Any day of the week in January 2013 & February 2013 and any day of the week in January 2014 & February 2014 *minimum numbers & spend may apply. Strictly subject to availability.

seenmag.co.uk

Will Malmaison be doing anything special to celebrate Liverpool Gay Pride? Malmaison has supported Liverpool Pride since it began and has watched it grow year on year, we are really proud to be involved.

We have a special offer on that weekend called Pride which is a two night stay for £199bb with a cocktail called ‘Rainbow’!

Do you have a licence to hold weddings at the hotel?

Yes we have had a licence for over two years now.

Why is the Liverpool Mal such a great venue for a civil partnership? Saying “I do” to the Mal means a feast for the eyes as well as a treat for your tummy. On booking your big day with us you have full use of our sumptuous Brasserie and Mal Room along with your own private Champagne Bar ... Veuve Cliquot no less.

A unique waterfront setting, the perfect location for your wedding photographs with a backdrop of the famous river Mersey.

Say a big “I do” to the Mal in from just £3,000!* Why not come to our Wedding Open day on Sunday 27th May 12pm-4pm. Email Kerri on klytton@malmaison. com to reserve your space.

Will I receive a personal ‘wedding planner’ in preparation for my big day? You will have our experienced wedding planner as well as a supporting cast who will make your day run like clockwork.

How long before the big day should I look at coming to book the Liverpool Mal? As soon as possible – you don’t want to miss out on your perfect date for your big day.

How many people can I invite to my civil partnership?

Our space is flexible so whether you are looking for an intimate gathering of 8 guests or a more grand celebration for a maximum of 65/ 80 daytime guests and a maximum of 120 evening guests we are the perfect venue. We can also offer special rates for guests staying overnight.

life 25

Here at the clinic we specialise in a number of treatments such as lip augmentation, dermal fillers for wrinkles and deeper folds and wrinkle relaxing injections. We also do more advanced procedures such as the ‘non-surgical nose job’ and the ‘virtual facelift’.

We pride ourselves on making every clients visit comfortable, informative and pleasant, giving our clients peace of mind so that they return time and time again, and our track record speaks for itself.

Dr Fab Equizi Mb.ChB.

Treatments Lines & Wrinkles Stretchmarks & Cellulite Lip Plumping & Shaping Cheekbone Enhancements Facial Contouring Glycolic Acid Face Peels Dermaroller

0151 520 3070 enquiries@lipdoctor.co.uk 171-173 Liverpool Road South, Maghull, Merseyside L31 8AA

www.lipdoctor.co.uk

Sealed with a

Preparation for special occasions including civil partnerships has extended beyond just make up and hair. A huge amount of people are now seriously considering slightly more dramatic adjustments including lip fillers. We speak to industry expert Lisa Equizi of Lip Doctor Aesthetics to find out more.

What is ‘lip filler’?

Lip filler, also known as Dermal filler, is a clear gel usually made out of Hyaluronic acid. It is injected in to the lip to define the shape and volume, it is also excellent when used to inject into ‘smokers lines’ to smooth out the upper lip area.

Does it hurt?

Before the treatment you are given an injection just like at the dentist which will completely numb the area, therefore the procedure is pain free.

Will it work instantly?

The result is instant however there will be swelling and sometimes bruising to the area. The swelling should subside within forty eight hours and if there is any bruising this can usually be covered with makeup.

What are the after effects?

At Lip Doctor Aesthetics we believe that offering excellent after care to our clients is important.

Because of this we book all of our clients a follow up appointment, which will be about two weeks after the initial treatment. At this appointment we will compare your before and after photographs and discuss with you any adjustments that need to be made, there is no extra charge for this appointment or for any adjustments done at the time.

seenmag.co.uk

How often do I need to get it once I have had it once?

You can usually expect to get about six months out of the treatment, but if you are a smoker intervals between treatments may be reduced.

Do I have to keep on having lip filler or will my lips go back to their original shape if I stop?

A lot of people find that the love their ‘new lips’ so much they want to continue with the treatments, others may have had the treatment for a one off special occasion such as a civil partnership. If this is the case then the filler will just break down, you will not be left with ‘deflated’ looking lips.

I’m entering into a civil partnership, as what point should I come to see the Lip Doctor?

As we feel that it is important to check all procedures and make sure you have enough time for any swelling or bruising to subside we would suggest that you leave plenty of time for planning. Consultations are free of charge and without obligation so we would recommend the following guidelines; Dermal fillers for facial volume we would suggest that you come in six/ eight weeks before. Lips and wrinkle relaxing can be left to four/six weeks before the big day.

life 27

Perfect fit

obbie and Stephen Lancaster Frankland are one of Liverpool’s best known gay couples.

Being married and working together in the Lisbon Bar, the pair have been together for four years.

“We were told we’d never ‘make it’ as a couple never mind make our marriage work,” Robbie says when the pair pay us a visit in Seen Towers. “But we are so happy and we haven’t let and negative comments come between us. In fact you could argue they have made us even stronger.”

Seen first met the couple before their wedding back in 2010. They had been together for just four months before getting engaged but were determined they knew they belonged together.

“We didn’t just have a ‘whirlwind wedding’ as an excuse for a party,” Stephen says. “Of course it was a fabulous day, but we

28

life

Two years on from their wedding, Robbie and Stephen Lancaster Frankland meet up with

didn’t just want the party – we wanted the marriage.”

Although it’s a technically incorrect term (at time of going to press), the pair refer to their civil partnership as a marriage. “We are husbands – we have made vows, we have the same rights as heterosexual married couples and we will continue to refer to our relationship in such a way,” they tell us.

As well as living together in Aintree, the pair also work together.

We couldn’t help but wonder if this puts any strain on the relationship. “Not at all,” Robbie adds. “We have a lot of separate shifts, but also we know the rule of leaving your personal life at home. We both respect the fact that work is work and on the rare occasion we have a row we will look at each other and laugh because it’s always over something silly. We then go to work and respect the boundaries.”

seenmag.co.uk

Seen Magazine to give us their views on the secret of a good partnership.

We are building up good foundations for ourselves and we wouldn’t want to change anything.

But their activities don’t stop at working in the same place.

“We are also members of the Hartley Village Heritage Council.

This is the area we live in and are building a good life in so we wanted to be a part of maintaining its legacy.”

Along with the rest of the small residents’ council, the pair have played a huge part in transforming the village having new street signs installed, as well as street furniture and planters. On top of this they have worked to gain official status and are looking at grants to have more work done. “It’s very close to our hearts and we are so proud to be involved with it.” Robbie is also responsible for creating the official logo of the council which has been imprinted on the new street signage. “I’m really proud as these signs will still be there long after we are gone; we are a part of making history.”

seenmag.co.uk

Although the pair are very hands on in their own community and in creating a legacy, they don’t plan to have children to carry on their own work. “In a nutshell we are too old!” Says Stephen laughing, “we know other gay couples who have gone through the adoption process and as well as being a huge strain on their relationships, it’s a lengthy procedure which we can’t put the time into.”

So the secret to a good relationship? “It’s the same answer we gave you two years ago, communication. If something is wrong, we talk about it just as we talk about good things in our lives.

We don’t have an extravagant lifestyle; we are regular people and are pleased by the simple things. “We don’t go to lavish parties or put ourselves in the spotlight. But we have what really matters – a real life. We are building up good foundations for ourselves and we wouldn’t want to change anything.”

life 29

GAY PARIS!

By name and by nature, Paris is without doubt a metropolis for gay men and woman from Europe and the world, with a huge gay population living in Paris interspersed one of the biggest gay visitor market. aris is officially in the top 3 gay hotspots in Europe, which creates an exciting buzz around the city and there are apparently over 300 gay businesses in Paris catering for the pink pound.

It is a city of style, romance, magnificent architecture, beautiful restaurants and beautiful people. Parisians have also managed in recent years to drop their reputation of being rude and unfriendly, it’s actually the opposite being a very friendly and welcoming place. Paris has some wonderful attractions all within walking distance from the trendy Bastille area, the classy St Germain and the touristy Montmartre, but the main magnet and gay centre is Le Marais.

Le Marias is the heartbeat of Paris, narrow streets bustling with shops, cafes, restaurants and bars and definitely where the beautiful crowd hang out – a great place for people watching.

Gay bar life around the Marias is mainly focused around the streets of Rue du Temple, Rue des Archives and Croix de la Bretonnerie. There is something to suit everyone’s taste from gay friendly restaurants, cafes, dance clubs, bear bars, cruising bars, saunas and sex clubs. Bars in Paris tend to be very small and crowded, at times uncomfortably, which is not to everybody’s taste.

Drinking starts early with the popular mixed meeting place Open Cafe on Rue des Archives serving happy hour beers and cocktails from 6-10pm, the cafe is also very popular throughout the day and the staff are very friendly and speak good English.

30

life

Moving further down to Cox Bar, this mainly men, beer swilling drinking bar pours out on to the outside pavement, especially between the hours of 6pm – 9pm for their Happy Hour beers, but pop inside it’s worth checking out the bar’s ever-changing quirky themes. The latest one being ‘Hair’ with old fashioned hair dryers, colour cards, wash basins and photos of men hairstyles scattered around the bar.. Quezal Bar just around the corner on Rue de la Verrerie is a friendly gay bar and another popular meeting place for an older clientele, definitely one to add to the pub crawl.

As the night goes on the bars become busy and very noisy, start of at the petit dance bar called Spyce, with its bright screens and go-go dancer platforms positioned behind the bar. Next en-route is the larger and very popular Raidd Bar, frequented by the beautiful boys of Paris, half naked waiters with perfect bodies cruise around the bar serving drinks, go-go dancers are high above on a platform by the DJ and what everybody is waiting for is the midnight shower show by naked muscle men overlooking the bar.

Bars stay open very late but if you feel like a dance then Free-DJ (pronounced Fridge) is the place to go.

This stylish upstairs bar and crowded downstairs club plays mainly English music and is the equivalent to Liverpool’s Gbar.

From 28th June – 1st July the city will come alive with the arrival of its Gay Pride event, the streets of the Marias will become a huge party zone and a gay parade will make its way through the city streets. Also this year is the Paris Circuit Party, the first festival of gay culture in Paris. The best gay clubs of Europe will take over the Paris venues turning the city into a gay clubbing mecca.

seenmag.co.uk

TOP 5...

Sightseeing musts.

Gay scene tips.

• Try to see the Eiffel Tower at night it’s much less crowded and very romantic.

• Best to avoid August if you can as many Parisians take their long vacation then and some companies even close down completely and therefore the scene may not be as busy.

• Go to the Centre Pompidou and visit the Cafe Beaubourg on the roof it’s a great bar to take a well earned rest in after looking at all of the amazing modern art.

• Our particular favourite is the Musee d’Orsay where you can immerse yourself a collection of the best impressionist paintings in the world.

• Notre Dame is smaller than you may think but none the less impressive. After seeing it walk across and treat yourself to a homemade icecream at Bertillon on Lle St Louis - yummy.

• Get away from the hustle and bustle and visit Les Carrieres the city’s very eerie but fascinating catacombs.

• Gay Parisians have a reputation for being a bit cold when it comes to flirting. It’s said they think if you show interest in them you are “needy” so it can be hard to hook up, don’t waste your time trying to get the etiquette correct just be yourself.

• Paris gay Pride is called Marche Des Fiertes LGBT this year it’s on 30th June so book flights now as it gets bigger and better every year.

• Before going visit Paris-gay.com this will give you all the latest places to go as Paris scene can be changeable.

• When you arrive buy TETU magazine, they have a great insert called Le Guide, this has all the up to the minute offers and news and can really make a difference to your stay.

FACTFILE EasyJet fly daily from Liverpool John Lennon Airport to Charles de Gaulle. www.easyjet.co.uk Information and Tickets for Paris Circuit Party can be found at www.pariscircuitparty.com For more information of the Paris Gay Scene visit www.paris-gay.com

seenmag.co.uk

life 31

DON’T LET EMBARRASSMENT LEAVE YOU PENNILESS!

Financial Abuse is a crime and people are often too ashamed to seek help. Veronica Howley, at Lees Solicitors answers your questions: What is financial abuse?

This means taking advantage of someone to make a financial gain; and in most cases that advantage can only be taken where the victim trusts or fears the abuser.

How could the LBGT Community be targeted?

Threats to ‘out’ a victim who may not be open about their LBGT status, or even reveal their HIV status may be very persuasive tools to blackmail a victim into giving away money or property as ‘gifts’.

However, targeting is usually more subtle than that, and the LBGT community are no less vulnerable than anyone else to being a victim of financial abuse. If you have money, there will always be someone willing to take it off you. You may not even realise it has happened until it is too late.

Who are the Abusers?

Abusers are much more likely to be someone you know well than a stranger. They could be a life partner, someone you are in a recent relationship with, a seemingly good friend or family member, or they could be a professional person such as a lawyer or accountant, or someone employed to provide care for you.

This is a Police matter isn’t it?

Almost all financial abuse is criminal conduct and should be reported to the police, who will investigate it and, if strong enough, the Crown Prosecution Service will bring criminal charges. However, a prosecution is unlikely to result in all of your losses being recovered. In those cases, you may need your own legal advice.

How much will it cost to seek legal advice?

Veronica will see you for a free consultation to talk about your case at a time and wherever possible, a place that suits you.

If you do have a case that is worth pursuing, then Veronica may be able to run it on a ‘no win no fee’ service which will give you peace of mind.

Where we cannot help, we may still be able to signpost LGBT friendly organisations that may be able to help you come to terms with what has happened.

If you suspect that you may be a victim of this type of abuse or perhaps know someone who is, and would like to discuss this matter further, please contact Veronica Howley or Tania Coventry on 0151 647 9381 or email Veronica Howley at vth@lees.co.uk

Our services dealing with financial abuse:

Professional negligence, breach of contract, property recovery, civil fraud, breach of duty.

Has someone

tricked you?

Where to find us: Birkenhead 44/45 Hamilton Square / 0151 647 9381 Heswall 90/92 Telegraph Road / 0151 342 6273

www.lees.co.uk

West Kirby 52A Grange Road / 0151 625 9364

GET IN TOUCH FOR A FREE HALF HOUR CONSULTATION: PHONE 0151 647 9381 EMAIL vth@lees.co.uk

Expert solicitors on your side.

Green on Seen Andy has been on Liverpool’s gay scene for more years than he can remember and has Andy Green

been writing about it regularly for the last eight years and has seen many gay venues and organisations come and go in that time.

The last History was made in Liverpool on May 5th as the first civil partnership ceremony took place in religious premises.

Kieran Bohan and Warren Hartley tied the knot in the Unitarian church on Ullet Road.

The church only received confirmation from Liverpool City Council that it could register civil partnerships the week before.

I didn’t attend the service but having spoken to people who did – including a Roman Catholic priest – and having seen the order of service, it was a religious marriage in all but name conducted by lay minister Angela Howard. The ceremony also featured Liverpool’s LGBT Choir and a spectacular appearance by a ring-bearing owl. Minister Angela was quoted as saying: “Many of our Unitarian churches have conducted blessings for same sex couples, either to complement a legal civil union

seenmag.co.uk

or simply to affirm a relationship, for many years. We are so pleased to have the first civil partnership on religious premises, but we will continue striving for all couples to have equal access to civil marriages, religious marriages and civil partnerships.”

The Unitarians have always been one of the more enlightened Christian churches and have long expressed their willingness and happiness to marry same-sex couples.

Which begs the question: why aren’t they allowed to?

It’s quite depressing and frankly infuriating that the government has given into pressure from its own right-wing back benchers and the hierarchies of the traditional churches to only offer civil marriage to same-sex couples and it looks like they may even be back-tracking on that. I don’t apologies for going on about this again because it’s the last big fight for true equality that we face and it’s one that we have to win. The outdated attitudes of the Establishment are the only things standing in our way.

Equalities minister Lynne Featherstone and Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper who specifically called on the government to allow religious same-sex marriages.

We need to engage as many people as possible in this campaign especially our straight supporters and most importantly grassroots Anglicans and Catholics.

The Roman Catholic priest I referred to earlier would love to be able to marry same-sex couples but he would almost certainly lose his job and quite possibly face prosecution – that can’t be right.

This might not seem to be an important issue for the majority of the public but it’s vital for our community. We can’t allow a small minority of powerful traditionalists to deny us equality just because of our sexuality.

Get recording those videos and tell your friends too!

For Kieron and Warren’s full story see www.seenmag.co.uk

Out4Marriage is a new global social media campaign that we should all be getting involved in as this isn’t just a UK issue. The campaign is asking people to record a video stating why they believe in equal marriage and ending with the words Out4Marriage. You then post it on YouTube and send the link to either the Facebook page or email to hello@out4marriage.org.

Prominent participants so far include

life 33

Tech Spec It’s 2012, and this year should see some amazing new gadgets coming on sale. Technology is constantly changing and

Chris Danks www.cyberhostpro.com

some cool new toys will be on sale this year.

Summer sizzlers...

Summer is almost upon us and no doubt you’re planning your holidays. If you’re like me and can’t help but tweet and update your facebook from the beach to tease everyone back home… I’ve got some cost saving ways to cut back on your international data charges.

If you’re a lite user, hopefully your hotel will offer free wifi but if not, before going on holiday call your mobile provider as most offer special deals on pre-payment for international data allowance, from my research O2 seems the cheapest for prepurchasing data.

If you’re a business person, and no matter where you go in the world, your laptop comes everywhere things can get very expensive, trust me I know. I learnt the hard way once. Last year I went away for a couple of weeks to Ibiza. I knew I’d be taking my Macbook Pro with me for work and I can’t always rely on hotel wifi to be quick enough, especially when everyone else is logged in.

If you go to ebay you can buy many international sim cards, I bought a Spanish Vodafone 3G Sim pack with 5GB data for around £30 last year, most companies selling the sims online are mobile resellers, so it was just a quick email & PayPal transaction before I was ready to roll. If I never bought the sim, it would cost me around £3,000 in UK international charges.

Before buying a sim, make sure your USB Dongle or Mifi Dongle is unlocked. You’ll also need to google the settings to install on your connection software for the international Sim card settings.

Buying a new phone this summer...

Earlier this year, I did mention Samsung and Apple are both releasing new handsets, Samsung have just announced the release of the new sexy Samsung Galaxy S III. It’s a nice new design, 4.8” screen and has its own version of Siri, the advanced assistant that is on the iPhone 4s and is available on all networks in blue & white. 3 Customers can get an exclusive 32GB Version… however it’ll only be exclusive for a very short time.

Apple too as usual should be releasing their annual updated iPhone later this year, current rumors say the next iPhone as having a longer screen, the width would be the same, but just 1/2 an inch taller and have a new docking port at the bottom of the phone.

LOOKING TO BUILD A WEBSITE? Cyber Host Pro “Your Website” is a new product that gives you a Full Website, Online Shop, Blog & Email for a low cost monthly subscription!

• No Design skills required.

• Just £15 a month £7.50 a month for Seen Magazine readers.

• Use coupon code SEENMAG when signing up to receive 50% OFF for life.

Got to www.cyberhostpro.com/create-website for a free demo!

If you need any help tweet me @chrisduk85.

34

life

seenmag.co.uk

36

style It’s been an exciting time for us at Seen HQ as we have worked tirelessly to bring you a new look in our fashion pages. We have scoured the internet and beyond to find one of the world’s hottest designers which are still affordable.

38

We’ve also found some objects of desire that may take a bit of saving up to purchase and we couldn’t resist but share them. Included in this though is a pair of Tom Ford sunglasses that we have teamed up with Blankstones Opticians to give away to one lucky reader.

We’ve made a trip to Hotel Indigo where we went back in time for afternoon tea, so don’t miss these stunning pictures.

40

seenmag.co.uk

style 35

TOM FORD SUNGLASSES BLANKSTONE OPTICIANS

TRILOGY ANTI-OCIDENT £27.50 / BOOTS.COM

SEEN IT

WANT IT

VITRA SUNFLOWER CLOCK £734 / UTILITY

HOMEDICS ME QUARTZ £499 / BOOTS

WIN

*HOME HAIR REMOVAL DEVICE

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN IPAD CASE £265 IPHONE CASE £155

You have SEEN it and now you want it?

WIN a private consultation at Blankstone Opticians and select your very own pair of Tom Ford sunglasses from the new summer range. Simply email our editor rebecca. keegan@seenmag.co.uk and tell us why you need a pair of Tom Ford’s this summer.

For more competitions and exclusive announcements subscribe to the seen weekly newsletter at www.seenmag.co.uk

36

style

seenmag.co.uk

AVENE THERMAL WATER SPRAY £6.50 / SKIN

LONDON WINSTER BAG £249 / HOBBS

TOM FORD SUNGLASSES BLANKSTONE OPTICIANS

KARTELL SEAT £208 / UTILITY

seenmag.co.uk

WANT IT

GHD AIR £99 / VOODOU

SEEN IT

SLOANE GLITTER SLIPPER £395 / JIMMY CHOO

THE BEATLES ON THE ROAD 64 - 66 £450 / UTILITY

style 37

Location Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill at Hotel Indigo Shoot Director Lee Joseph Hagan Photographer Marlon Davies Stylist Siobhan Noble Clothing Tatties Vintage Makeup Lucy Mckeown Hair Mode by Michael Models Felicity Burrow, Dayna Austin, Saffiyah Paul.

DON’T MIND IF I DO...

Originating in the 1840s there is nothing quite so quintessentially English as afternoon tea.

It was allegedly started by Anna Duchess of Bedford, who enjoyed tea in the afternoon, but she always complained of a sinking feeling and a rumbling in her stomach. This was alleviated by her accompanying her tea with delicate sandwiches and small cakes to see her through until dinner at 8pm. It quickly caught on and has since been used as way for friends to catch up in the afternoon and enjoy each others company and small delicacies.

Nobody does this as well as our friends at Hotel Indigo and as you can see by the beautiful way they present afternoon tea it is well worth a visit. Treat yourself to a decadent array of finger sandwiches, freshly made scones with dreamy clotted cream and a selection of preserves served on a pretty tiered tea stand in the elegant surroundings of their Cotton Lounge.

The friendly staff make you feel really special and it’s a nice change to have tea served in a proper teapot. Feel like spoiling yourself?

Why not go the whole hog and have an extra special treat with the Champagne option; this is served with a glass of Veuve Clicquot and will make you feel like the aristocracy of bygone days.

So in this year of the Queen’s Jubilee and the UK celebrating the Olympic Games being held in our country it’s a great excuse for you to get together and celebrate another national favourite. You will no doubt see, on occasion, a member of the Seen Team in there enjoying the experience themselves and if you do please raise a glass (or a teacup) and say hello.

Afternoon tea is served in the Cotton Lounge in Hotel Indigo, Chapel Street, Liverpool from Monday to Sunday, 12pm until 4pm. Prices are £12.50 per person for afternoon tea or £20 per person with Champagne.

Afternoon tea, bed & breakfast for £79 For the months of June, July & August SEEN has an exclusive offer for Hotel Indigo so you can have your very own Stay-cation. Any Friday in June, July & August, join them for Afternoon Tea in The Cotton Lounge and then stay over night on a bed and breakfast basis for just £79. Quote Seen Magazine when making the booking. (subject to availability, this rate is open for Friday night stay only)

10 Chapel Street Liverpool, L3 9AG 0151 559 0111

Intentionally sexy.....

Unconditional is said to be London in its attitude but carries the simplicity often described as ‘American’ in the fashion industry. It has a laid back yet edgy androgynous all over look that the style conscious of our city thrive on when partying on the club scene or creating a modern elegant corporate chic look for the office.

This brand uses natural, pure, ethically produced fabrics that are to be warn as strong, clean silhouettes designed to look, intentionally sexy.

In terms of price points, the brand sits above high street prices but falls much lower than standard designer labels.

Don’t be afraid to ‘mix&match’ partner your favourite piece with an item in your existing wardrobe to create a luxury high end look that still feels like you.

Mix old with new and always dress unconditionally, you.

Pin stripe shirt £74

Jacket & summer wool chiffon £260

Trouser £73

40

style

seenmag.co.uk

Vest Leopard £16

Jacket £160

Shorts £76

seenmag.co.uk

style 41

Top Silk cashmere £110 or cotton £74

Shorts Silk crepe £85 or summer wool £63

42

style

seenmag.co.uk

Jumper Silk cashmere £110 or cotton £74

Trouser £90

seenmag.co.uk

style 43

Vest £33

Trouser £70

44

style

seenmag.co.uk

Camisole silk crepe £37

Silk jacket crepe £110

Trousers £180

seenmag.co.uk

style 45

CIVIL

Morecrofts puts your Family first

PARTN

ERSHIP

S

N O I T A I D ME

ARE C R E FOST

CHILD

DISPUT

ES

Services we offer include: • Confidential, sensitive service • Solicitor led advice • Civil Partnerships • Foster care • Adoption • Mediation • Child disputes • Domestic violence

For your 10% discount just quote seenfamily12* * Terms & conditions apply

For more information just call Helen Broughton

Proud supporters of

0151 236 8871

or email hb@morecrofts.co.uk Liverpool

Crosby

Woolton

Wirral

No 1 Tithebarn, 1-5 Tithebarn Street, Liverpool L2 2NZ

2 Crown Buildings, Liverpool Road, Crosby, Liverpool L23 5SR

7 Church Road, Woolton Liverpool L25 5JE

30 Hamilton Square, Birkenhead Wirral CH41 6AZ

0151 236 8871

0151 924 9234

0151 428 1911

0151 666 2210

www.morecrofts.co.uk Family Law | Commercial Property | Advice for Businesses | Conveyancing | Wills & Probate | Personal Injury Services for the Elderly | Litigation | Education | Employment | Charity Law | Commercial & Corporate Law | Insolvency Morecrofts LLP offers legal advice on a broad range of services for individuals and businesses LLP No. OC333433

seenmag.co.uk

L F

R

G I

E

B N

T D

L

Y

Taking the stress out of buying your

New Build Home

At BBH we have a specialist New Build Residential Conveyancing Team who has vast experience in dealing with new developments for residential purposes.

For further information or to instruct us please contact Nicola Vaughan on 0151 326 2388.

Quote ‘Seen’ for a ‘free will’ when you instruct us to act on your property.

BBH Legal Services Ltd, Eastham Hall, Eastham Village, Wirral, Cheshire, CH62 0AF Telephone: 0151 326 2340 | Fax: 0151 326 2375 | www.bbhlegal.co.uk BBH (Legal Services) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority Reg. No. 561550

Quick fire

Q&A

on New Build Homes with BBH...

1 3 5

Why BBH Legal Services?

Having a wealth of experience in dealing with new build transaction we are frequently referred by developers to prospective buyers and have firsthand knowledge of many sites. We will fix our fees with you at the outset of your transaction, we extremely competitive and do not charge for abortive transactions. You will also be given a direct line and email address of the person dealing with your transaction.

2

How does the New Build Process differ from an ordinary conveyance?

You should instruct solicitors, such as BBH, who are familiar with the New Build Legal Process.

We will check all manner of issues for you, planning and building regulation consents, rights afforded for the benefit of the property etc. We ensure that the contract sets out everything the builder has agreed to do.

Who will be responsible for the Estate Roads?

We will ensure a Highways Act Agreement is in place. This agreement is made between the Local Authority and the Developer and a third party providing an insurance guarantee This agreement confirms that the estate roads are the responsibility of the developer until they become publicly maintained (adopted) by the Local Authority.

4

I have reserved a plot what should I do now?

In order to reduce the risk of losing your new build property, make sure that you instruct solicitors as soon as you decide to reserve a new build. Early appointment with your proposed Lender is recommended to ensure you meet your Reservation Expiry Date.

Will I know what your fees are up front?

Yes, we offer a free, no obligation quotation at the outset of your transaction. Our fees have proven extremely competitive and we do not charge for abortive transactions.

6

Are you familiar with schemes such as Shared Equity, FirstBuy?

Yes, BBH have dealt with numerous transactions subject to such schemes. Our aim is to give clear and practical advice to assist and ensure you are informed every step of the way.

BBH Legal Services Ltd, Eastham Hall, Eastham Village, Wirral, Cheshire, CH62 0AF Telephone: 0151 326 2340 | Fax: 0151 326 2375 | www.bbhlegal.co.uk BBH (Legal Services) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority Reg. No. 561550

Ft. Tim Minchin, Melanie C and Chris Moyles!

16 October £45.00 - £65.00

Westlife

Gillette Soccer Saturday Live With Joe Royle and Jamie Carragher

Love and Light

The Greatest Hits Tour

22 September £10.00

13 June £41.50

Men’s and Women’s Artistic Gymnastics British Championships

ER TH O

Ft. Vince Kidd, Becky Hill, Bo Bruce, Max Milner, Jaz Ellington, Tyler James, Ruth Brown & Leanne Mitchell.

22 - 24 June

£5.00 - £30.00 Family: £40.00 - £65.00

25 September £35.00

Liverpool Unites in Dance 2012

Ft. The All-American Rejects and The Blackout 12 July £33.19

Radio City Live

T SOLD OU

Ft. One Direction, Labrinth & more!

15 November £29.50

Once In A Lifetime 2012 ft. David Cassidy, Leo Sayer Hot Chocolate & Smokie 17 November £38.50

Michael McIntyre 22 - 24 November £35.00

8 July £15.00

Blink 182

Ronan Keating Fires Live Tour 1 February 2013 £33.50

The Liebherr Men’s World Cup Table Tennis 28 - 30 September £15.00 - £45.00

John Bishop: Rollercoaster

The Australian Pink Floyd Show 8 February 2013 £29.50 - £89.00

Jessie J

5 March 2013 £25.00/£32.50

Olly Murs

EXTRA DATE ADDED 13 & 27 March 2013 £32.50

Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of The Worlds Starring Jason Donovan, Kaiser Chiefs’ Ricky Wilson, Wicked’s Kerry Ellis and Liam Neeson in 3D! 1 December £42.50 - £62.50

One Direction

17 & 31 March 2013

21 July

1 - 6 October £30.00

Bells Of The World In Concert

George Michael

Madness

Eddie Izzard

10 October £51.00 - £91.00

7 December £35.00/£45.00

5 May 2013 £35.00

4 August £10.00

Symphonica: The Orchestral Tour

Deacon Blue

25th Anniversary Tour

20 October £18.50 - £36.50

29 August - 2 September Adults: £19.00 - £23.00 Kids: £16.50 - £20.50

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds

6 September £35.00 - £59.50

The Charge Of The Mad Brigade

Up Close and Personal 8 December £28.50

22 - 27 May 2013

10 November £40.00 - £65.00

11 November £45.00 - £120.00

Force Majeure

Peter Andre

Lionel Richie

Andrea Bocelli

T SOLD OU

£25.00 - £45.00

Mrs Brown Rides Again

11 - 15 December £19.50 - £39.50

All ticket purchases are subject to a ‘per ticket’ booking fee and a handling fee. Tickets are subject to availability.

Back In The Game Tour

12 November 2013 £24.50

SCAN THIS WITH A QR CODE READER APP!

...NOW THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT! BOX OFFICE: 0844 8000 400

Micky Flanagan

53

view

When we have asked in recent surveys what people want to see more of in Seen Magazine, we were overwhelmed by the response from people wanting more from the past.

History is made every single day in one way or another,

54

and in the spirit of this we spoke to a very special woman who many of us know – Sandi Hughes.

Sandi has an inspirational story to tell and she has captured much of the LGBT history of the city on camera.

We also feature our usual film reviews from the lovely Joan Burnett and new pictures from recent events in the city.

59

seenmag.co.uk

view 51

Sunset Dawn.

Putting New Brighton at the forefront of a global vision…

The Sunset Dawn is a global arts and media festival connecting the midsummer sunset over New Brighton with dawn breaking over Tokyo, Shanghai and Sydney. And that’s just for starters...

New Brighton will be staging a White Night of world music, entertainment and celebrating the dawn breaking over Liverpool as the sun sets over California.

The evening begins at Fort Perch Rock where from 8pm to10.30pm on Friday June 22 the sunset will be welcomed with a stage show of world music, dance, comedy and poems which will feature China Pearl and fireside bards.

Meanwhile from 9.30pm to 11pm the Floral Pavilion’s Panoramic Lounge will stage music and poetry to accompany the view of the sunset and will continue this at 4am until 6am with music and poetry to welcome the dawn with coffee and breakfast.

Throughout the evening the newly opened Grosvenor Casino will present themed music and entertainment from around the world accompanied by food and drink to keep the party going.

The Light Cinema will join the celebration with a screening of Koyaanisqatsi – Life on Earth every day from Fri 22nd to Sun 24th June at 2pm. This 1982 looks at life on earth

as seen through the prophetic wisdom of the Hopi elders, directed by Godfrey Reggio with a soundtrack by Philip Glass.

In addition to all these events a Sunset Dawn exhibition with photographs, poems and an exposition of the thinking behind this visionary festival will run from Monday afternoon on the 18th June to Saturday afternoon on 23rd June at the Floral Pavilion.

The Sunset Dawn is an idea whose time has come, and world cities with global vision are ready to make it happen . . .for more information on Sunset Dawn visit: www. sunsetdawn.com

THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC. A brand new play about one of Liverpool’s favourite gay sons and one of the world’s most successful music entrepreneurs is to premiere in Liverpool at the new Epstein Theatre.

Epstein is a long-awaited theatrical production celebrating the life of former Beatles manager Brian Epstein. It is a one man multi-media play with live music, created by Jen Heyes and Andrew Sherlock, written

by Andrew Sherlock, directed by Jen Heyes and runs from 15 November to 1 December 2012.

Brian Epstein was best known as a music entrepreneur and legendary manager of The Beatles and was the person responsible for their rise to mega-stardom all over the world.

He also managed other popular artists such as Gerry & The Pacemakers, Billy J Kramer, The Foremost, The Dakotas and Cilla Black.

Brian Epstein recalled meeting The Beatles: “I hadn’t had anything to do with management of pop artists before that day that I went down to the Cavern Club and heard the Beatles playing... I was immediately struck by their music, their beat, and their sense of humour on stage - and even afterwards when I met them I was struck again by their personal charm. And it was there, that really, it all started.”

Brian Epstein’s short life was crammed with success and controversy; he was an intelligent man whose prescience, taste, vision and passion left a lifelong impact on the world.

Born in Liverpool in 1934 to Jewish descent, he spent his early adult years working for the family business NEMS (North End Music Stores) before being drafted into the Royal Army Service Corps, after a brief stint in London joining RADA and living a more openly gay life he returned to Liverpool to manage the new NEMS city centre music store making it one of the biggest in the North.

seenmag.co.uk

Not long after was the historic lunchtime visit to the famous Cavern Club to hear four Liverpool lads perform and the rest was history.

Brian had a passion for classical music and theatre and even leased the Saville Theatre in London. Immense rapid success, busy schedules and constant touring took its toll on Brian and depression and recreational drugs set-in. Brian Epstein died of a sleeping pill overdose in August 1967, he was aged just 32. His death was immediately felt, while the Beatles continued to make magnificent music, their business affairs rapidly crumbled and by 1970 it was all over.

Co-Producer Bill Elms says: “This production has been two years in the planning and it’s now time for Brian’s story to be told on stage, especially being the first main production at The Epstein Theatre and in the 50th anniversary year of the Beatles.

EPSTEIN will be a celebration and an education of one of Liverpool’s favourite sons. ” Co-Producer and Director Jen Heyes adds “EPSTEIN will transport our audiences back to the swinging sixties, a time when Liverpool was bursting with the Merseybeat, it’s a musical and visual journey through Brian’s life and told by the man himself. As a director it has been exciting and creative to work with the brilliant writer Andrew Sherlock again, Andrew possesses a real skill for writing plays that bring to life strong, enigmatic characters from the past by recreating the world in which they lived. ” Tickets are now on sale, visit www.echoarena.com

view 53

60’s

70’s

Nurturing nostalgia.

When it comes to inspirational people, Sandi Hughes is certainly at the top end of the list.

At 68-years-old she has had a rollercoaster of a life which has seen her face some unimaginable situations – both good and bad...

80’s

orn in Bristol, Sandi Hughes grew up in foster care. Given up by her mother when she was just a baby, she never knew what it was like to really be loved.

Now 68-years-old, Sandi spent her time documenting Liverpool in film and pictures to preserve our valuable history for future generations.

Throughout her life she’s captured everything on camera and believes that appreciating our past is of upmost importance.

Her own past is a tale to tell that has made her one of the richest women in the world – maybe not though money in he bank, but through some of the friendships, communities and family she has built around her.

“I got my first job at 17-years-old,” she says. “I was in the navy and I really liked it. I became an officer’s steward and was in catering.

“Whilst in the Navy, when I was 19 I met a scouse man in Portsmouth and we began a relationship – he was the first person ever to tell me he loved me and I was so compelled.

Back then I never even considered that I could be gay – you weren’t allowed to be it was basically against the law, so I got married, had kids and settled down on The Wirral.”

Her husband was still in the Navy at the time and he travelled so much she hardly saw him, which she says suited her fine. He then bought himself out and was home full time. Their relationship was difficult and she suffered abuse.

“It was a difficult time,” she reminisces. “I got myself a little job at a pub in Liverpool – The Lisbon – and realised while there that I was more comfortable around these people.

I realised I was like them. I’d been married for over 6 years and for the first time I felt like a whole person. I realised not what was wrong with me, but what was right with me.”

She left her husband and set up home in the Liverpool 8 area.

Soon after this she applied for custody of her children, three girls and a boy. “At court I was granted custody of my son, but denied access to my daughters because I was gay. It was the most horrific experience. They stated that I was ‘unfit’ to care for my girls because of my sexuality and I might influence them wrongly.

“I didn’t want to split the children up so I agreed to let all of them stay with their father.”

Sandi would often let boys from the gay scene stay at her home when they had no where else to go. “Back then many families would disown children because they were gay, particularly men.

“They often just needed somewhere to lay their heads and have a meal and I’d make sure they were looked after. They all called me the fairy godmother on the scene.”

Sandi loved filming and capturing her life on a camera. After some advice she was given from Chris Bernard (film director and

80’s

At court I was granted custody of my son, but denied access to my daughters because I was gay.

90’s

well known for his script writing on Brookside) she went to college and qualified in film production.

She then received a grand to buy equipment from Liverpool City Council and began to film in a more professional way.

“I loved interviewing people and gathering their memories and opinions. It’s just fascinating to me!”

Soon after, her son became ill with Cancer and died at the age of 20. “It’s every parent’s worst nightmare to see a child die, and it was difficult more so for me as he was at home in his father’s house where I wasn’t made welcome at all.”

We asked Sandi about the 80s and the difficulty gay people had with the HIV propaganda that embarked upon Britain. “That was so awful – the TV was running commercials, there were poster campaigns everywhere and gay people were victimised and named the enemy. Even if you were a teacher at a school, you would be sacked if someone found out you were gay.

Equal opportunities just didn’t matter.

“Although it was a tough time, it did assist in building community. We had to look after each other and it gave us a good network of support.”

Sandi also decided she wanted to contact her parents.

“My mother was white and my father black. At the time I was born this was severely frowned upon and my mother was forced to give me up so when I turned up on her doorstep she was delighted to see me, but after one conversation she never kept in touch. I wrote to her for 15 years afterwards and never received a response.

“It took me years to track my father down as back then it wasn’t as easy as it is now. We couldn’t just go on the internet.”

Her father lived in Downtown Chicago and after finding his home where his wife still lived she was told he’d died 10 months previous.

“I went and met his wife and she welcomed me with open arms, made me a meal and we sat for hours talking. All the neighbours were coming to the house to see me and everyone told me that my dad never stopped talking about me and has looked for me his entire life.

“The fact that I knew he loved me and wanted to see me gave me closure and a great sense of relief that I was always loved.”

She also remembers a major turning point in Liverpool’s gay history. “It was Homotopia,” she says. “When Gary Everett came on the scene he made things so different. I think gay people tend to have a more creative gene, and he gave us a platform to express that with the festival. Artists began to come to our city from all over the world. Gary really put us on the map and he is a true ambassador for gay Liverpool.”

Sandi now has a great relationship with her daughters and is a grandmother. She has lived enough for a dozen lifetimes and seen so much and will turn 69 this August.

“What have I learnt? Never give up on what you believe in and learn to accept yourself for who you are. It’s the secret to a happy life and good skin!” she says.

Do you have a story to tell about Merseyside history?

Email rebecca@seenmag.co.uk

GLAMOUR

& BEAUTY. Morecrofts held an evening of glamour and beauty at Crosby Lakeside Marina to raise money for Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid and Jospice. Over 80 women came along to support Morecrofts’ event and so far they have raised over £560 with more still to come!

a huge thank you to all our guests who we hope will continue to support Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid and Jospice. adies were entertained with a make-up demonstration from Estee Lauder, fashion shows from Rosalinds and Novia, and an indulgent massage demonstration from The Treatment Rooms. During breaks in the entertainment guests took advantage of Estee Lauder and The Treatment Rooms’ generosity by having free minitreatments and were able to watch yoga demonstrations from Bikram Yoga Liverpool owner Estelle Carthedge who provided guests with fantastic offers on her traditional Bikram Yoga/Hot Yoga classes.

58

view

Morecrofts Managing Partner, Helen Broughton said, “We were overwhelmed by the generosity and support of our guests last night and would like to thank everyone who helped to make the evening such a fabulous success. We were especially impressed with Simon Peter Photography who not only kindly donated his time and photography skills but managed to survive the evening as the lone man in a room full of women! Most importantly a huge thank you to all our guests who we hope will continue to support Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid and Jospice and made last night a real success.”

For more information and pictures from the event visit www.morecrofts.co.uk or www.facebook.com/MorecroftsSolicitors

seenmag.co.uk

Take One Joan Burnett’s passion for queer film started when she saw her first

Movies online.

The Internet is changing everything about our lives at a pace that is hardly to be believed at times and LGBT people are early adopters of this technology (even an old-timer like me has been investigating on-line sources of movies).

The established services like Netflix and Lovefilm are there, but also LGBT dedicated services like the video-on-demand content from TLA on www.tlagay.co.uk and www.buskfilms.com which concentrates on lesbian content. The new BBC service www.thespace.org is already carrying LGBT content – as I write Gilbert and George are on the home page with ‘Bend It’.

fabulous gay kiss in My Beautiful Film review with Joan Burnett

Laundrette more moons ago than she cares to remember. After eight years at FACT, a stint for outsiders and a year as Trustee for Liverpool Pride, she believes the importance of LGBT people seeing themselves on screen is as essential as ever. She reviews the best in new and classic DVD’s available now.

Here in Liverpool we have the fab www.homotopia.tv giving us invaluable added extras during Homotopia itself and acting as a crucial archive of events and from May, First Take’s Pink: Past & Present website is on the move: you can already view many interviews and excerpts on www.first-take.org/pinkpastpresent.

I’ve looked at two new films, utterly different, with the online world as their subject....

eCupid.

Firstly, daft rom-com e-Cupid, (released 14/5/2012) where a rogue app takes over bored Marshall’s life. It’s an entertaining morality tale – essentially, be careful what you wish for – as the app blocks calls, deletes texts and sends out bogus messages like your best friend trying to match-make on the sly.

This is the kind of film that you need on a wet Wednesday, when things are grim, just to cheer you up. It even has a cameo from celeb icon Morgan Fairchild, a woman more plastic than a Lego version of Liverpool One. As she says “Sit your sticky buns down”, turn off your intellect and enjoy.

This Is What Love In Action Looks Like.

In complete contrast, This Is What Love In Action Looks Like (released 28/5/2012) is a blistering documentary about the evils of the “ex-gay” Love In Action movement in America.

Back in 2005, before the advent of It Get’s Better, Zach came out to his parents and their response was to send him to Refuge, a youth camp aimed at “curing” young gay people.

With great presence of mind, Zach managed to blog about his predicament before being packed off, and his blog went viral with truly life-affirming consequences.

Do see this film if you can: it’ll get you in just the right mood for Liverpool Pride – as the protestors who supported Zach say ‘ Shame and fear are not the only choice”. Put on your glittery sailor suit and march on 4th August to carry on their essential work.

Stills from eCupid

seenmag.co.uk

view 59

Seen Business Dinner

60

view

seenmag.co.uk

Matt Ford Art Show

seenmag.co.uk

view 61

20 Years of Blankstone

62

view

seenmag.co.uk

The Pansy Project

seenmag.co.uk

view 63

Liverpool’s Dave the Pap shares some of his latest snaps of celebrities he’s found in Liverpool during the past few months.

64

view

seenmag.co.uk

THE PERFECT PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC CIVIL PARTNERSHIP The Floral Pavilion situated on the banks of the Mersey Estuary is an ideal place for a romantic civil partnership. With breath taking views of the river and a catering team led by Master Chef of Great Britain, Darren Wynn the Floral Pavilion is the perfect place for that very special day with a theatrical twist.

For further information or to arrange a viewing please contact one of our Wedding Coordinators: Jim Camden: Telephone 0151 606 2983 or Email jamescamden@wirral.gov.uk | Tom Forth: Telephone 0151 606 2992 or Email tomforth@wirral.gov.uk

VAT Reg. No. 165565540