Style of Wight Issue 74 January/February 2022 by Style of Wight

T H E I S L E O F W I G H T ’ S I N S P I R AT I O N A L L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E ISSUE 74 JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2022

PA G E BRIDAL GUIDE

ISLAND BUSINESS REACHING ACROSS THE WORLD AJ WELLS C E L E B R AT E S 50 YEARS

inspired

Staycations

Hol ida ys w ithout the need to travel

INTERVIEW

FIND THE NEW YOU FOR 2022

ALEX SCHEFFLER The illustrator for the Gruffalo talks about his latest collaboration with Julia Donaldson

World food f lavours Menus i nspi red f rom a rou nd the g lobe

lifestyle

fashion

health

beauty

food

home

family

art

L I F E S T Y L E

NEW STYLE, NEW YEAR! AT ACACIA BAY Natural jute, bamboo and hessian home lighting, unique wall art and stylish home furnishings available now.

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm 14 -16 High Street, Shanklin, PO376LB | Te l : 0 7 9 5 6 3 5 1 3 4 1 @ a c a c i a b a y i ow | a c a c i a b a y i ow. co . u k

Ludham Cottage Barton Estate £469,950

2 | EPC n/a

1, Ludham Cottage provides a very rare opportunity to acquire a property surrounded by picturesque countryside with sea views. Situated within an AONB this early 19th century Grade II listed semi-detached cottage, never previously marketed, has been home to the same family for over 60 years. Formerly a farm cottage and part of the historic Barton Estate during the ownership of Queen Victoria, the property has been well maintained and provides a wonderful lifestyle change for those seeking countryside living.

St Kierans Newport £775,000

4 | EPC D

Set in approximately 3.5 acres, St Kieran’s enjoys views out over Newport and as far as Southampton waters. A four-bedroom family home located in close proximity of local amenities and enjoys a woodland and a wild flower meadow in the summer months. Two reception rooms both benefit from log burning stoves and, views over the garden and land. With so much outside space this property is perfect for those looking to extend or those that would like a property with land in a conveniently placed central location.

Our London office is at 21 Park Lane, Mayfair and guarantees our properties are exposed to a vibrant national and international markets.

CLASSIC

CONTEMPORARY

TC SS

4 The Orchard Cowes £725,000

COASTAL

4 | EPC C

Beautifully presented and well maintained this four-bedroom detached house is nestled within a cul-de-sac just off of Baring Road. A sought-after location and only minutes from local amenities, waterfront and Red Jet. Built cc 2000’s this property is ideal as a ‘lock up and leave’ bolthole or as a spacious family home.

TC SS

Greystones, Freshwater £775,000

7 | EPC E

A substantial and spacious stone-built family home accessed from the main road through double wooden gates. A former vicarage and conveniently placed in close proximity to local amenities and mainland connections. Arranged over 3 floors and with 4 reception rooms this property is ideal for larger families or those just wanting more space.

Newport 01983 538090

Ryde 01983 617640

Bembridge 01983 875000

More available on Rightmove, OnTheMarket.com and www.hrdthecollection.co.uk

@ s pe nc ewilla rdiw

East Cowes

Guide Price

£695,000

This unique townhouse dates back to the late 1800s and offers a wealth of orignal features. 4 generous sized bedrooms, a cabin room with amazing sea views, 4 reception rooms plus study and balconies. Located right on the seafront and easy walking distance to the town centre.

Cowes Parade

Guide Price

Superb lock up and go! This one bedroom apartment is situated in a sought after location on Cowes parade with everything you need on your door step. Sea views, balcony, open plan living area and secure under croft parking.

www.watersideproperties.com

£285,000

Lynda Blenkinsop

Paul Booker

Georgie McCarthy

T | 01983 300111 Island Harbour

Prices from

£395,000

We have a selection of fabulous properties located at the idyllic Island Harbour. Island Harbour sits on the eastern banks of the River Medina. With around 100 properties, it is home to permanent residents, secondary residents and holiday makers alike. All the homes have parking and a mooring.

Cowes Old Town

Guide Price

£950,000

Beautifully presented 4 bedroom townhouse situated in the heart of Cowes Old Town. Large roof terrace with amazing views across Cowes and The Solent. Arranged over 3 levels offering a sitting room, dining room, kitchen, galleried study, principle suite and a conservatory with under floor heating. Parking for 2 cars and a garage. Viewing is highly recommended.

Designing with Nature's Colour Wheel

www.raineypetrie.co.uk

@raineypetrie

Cover Coordination, Concept and Photography: @emilyedgarphotography. Coordination and Styling: @greenunion.co.uk. Model: @meganfarmer_modelling. Dress: @karen_dornellie. Hair and Makeup: @tonisearlebridal

Note from the Editor As the new year unfolds a wintry chill awaits us as we emerge from the safety of our Christmas blankets and duvets. Yet I find myself glowing and warm as it is with immense pride that we bring you this, our first edition of 2022.

Editor and Creative Director Christian Warren christian@styleofwight.co.uk Supporting Editor Emma Elobeid emma@styleofwight.co.uk Sub Editor Helen Hopper Editorial Assistant Jen Parker office@styleofwight.co.uk Contributors Tracy Calder, Lauren Fry, Dale Howarth, Rebecca Lawson, James Rayner, Roz Whistance, Jo Macaulay Design Laura Craven Photography Timi Eross, Christian Warren, Julian Winslow

This edition is positively overflowing with ideas to get your new year off to a flying start. Our health and beauty section starts on page 54 with life-affirming advice and inspiration, as well as highlighting the latest trends and services on offer right here on our Island. Our food section considers global food trends and where we can find them on our shores – page 41. Of course, January wouldn’t be complete without our annual Bridal Guide – your 24-page supplement covering everything you need for your unique Wight Wedding begins on page 67. The New Year is a natural time for reflection and anticipation, as we look to set new goals and challenges for the weeks and months ahead. New starts and new beginnings await us all and, here at Style of Wight, this edition I’m pleased to be back in the seat as Editor with lots of exciting new plans to reveal over the coming editions. Our lives are like the seasons – always changing – in fact, it is impossible to stop the continuous cycle of change that embraces us all. Some of these changes we will like, others we won’t. But they will happen regardless. So we can choose to embrace and grow with them or let them ground and hold us down. When we embrace problems they become challenges and, with nurture and intention, they quickly blossom into opportunities.

Sales Christian Warren christian@styleofwight.co.uk

I hope you too find comfort, growth and perhaps an element of joy in the challenges that face you this year. Some of you may remember my tendency to share quotations in my editor’s letter; this one feels good to start the New Year with:

Distribution office@styleofwight.co.uk 01983 861007

Confucius once said, “We all have two lives, the second one starts when you realise you only have one.”

Supported by Acclaim Logistics

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of Style of Wight Magazine, but legal responsibility cannot be accepted for errors, omissions or misleading statements. Winners at the IW Chamber Awards 2016

Christian Warren

Get in touch

8 Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1EJ 01983 861007 www.styleofwight.co.uk

At the time of going to press we are seeing changes to regulations and social behaviour guidelines due to Covid-19. Some of the content in this magazine was committed and published prior to this guidance being in place.

January and February 2022

Find The Pieces That Make A House A Home

This & ThaT Our collection of furniture and accessories offer inspiration for every single room in your home. Whatever life throws at you, if you’ve got somewhere that feels homely - somewhere loved and lived - you’ll have a place of your own telephone: 01983 612 152 email: thisandthatseaview@aol.com web thisandthatseaview.co.uk Address: 1 Pier Road Seaview Isle Of Wight PO34-5BL

Open Monday to Saturday 9.00am - 5.30pm 34, Union Street, Ryde PO33 2LE Tel. 01983 562570 www.gibbsandgurnell.co.uk

Contents

Issue 74: January and February 2022

REGULARS

ART

Style picks: welcome tranquility with a selection of lovely products from Island businesses

Style scoop: our seasonal roundup of places to go, people to meet, and things to know

Lead interview: Keeping the home fires burning with AJ Wells

114

Style speaks: to children’s illustrator Axel Scheffler

Human race rosettes: with Lauren Fry

Meet the maker: bridal designer Karen Dornellie

Feeling good: with Dr. Hayley Elsmore

Style spectrum: Dan Locke

Pause and be grateful: with Caroline Hurley

32 Children’s Writing Competition winner: Imogen Forsyth

Small changes, big steps: with Hattie MacAndrews

Your winter wellbeing community: with Balance + Glo

New Year, New Trends: with Visual Impact

Mindful photography: with closeup photographer Tracy Calder

FOOD

FEATURES 36

The Ocean Hotel: and the Polish entrepreneur who built it

The bridal guide: design your perfect Island wedding

Stay a while on the Isle: rediscover the beauty of our home shores

102

People with style: Cris Arago Pedley

FASHION, HEALTH AND BEAUTY

Global food inspiration: a world of tastes on an Isle of Wight plate

Chana masala: by Richard Sayce

Chicken madras: by Richard Sayce

Roasted savoy cabbage: with Living Larder

HOME 94

Vibrant colour and rich texture: with Anne Ginger Soft Furnishings

Cook in colour: with Hurst

Ski at home: with Bayliss & Booth

Find balance: with Acacia Bay

101 Ancient designs for modern homes: with Abbotts Flooring 106 Property: homes to inspire

BUSINESS 111

The loneliness epidemic: with Glanvilles Damant

113

Find your sweet spot: with Dale Howarth

42 January and February 2022

Minimalism at its best It’s easy to see why these elegant hand-thrown bowls have been in demand across the globe. From £44, Sue Paraskeva Tableware Instagram: @sueparaskeva

Relax and unwind A blend designed to capture freedom in the British countryside, the seaweed and samphire scent is the perfect choice for a moment of escapism. £29, This & That Instagram: @thisandthatseaview

Style picks Time for something new? Welcome calm and tranquility with our round-up of lovely products from some of our favourite Island-based businesses.

Open new doors Welcome Victorian style into your 2022 with the new collection of beautifully contemporary laser-cut doorplates. £44, Honeybourne Jewellery and AJ Wells Instagram: @honeybournejewellery and @ajwellsltd

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One for the wall Make the absolute most of your cherished artwork and photographs with the personalised framing service in Cowes. Shorelines Instagram: @shorelinescowes

Perfectly imperfect

Soothe your space Invite peace into your home using your favourite essential oils with this stunning tulip aroma diffuser.

A simple pebble design – mottled and tactile – to ground you with every touch. £50, ChilliWinter Instagram: @chilliwinteriow

£23, Duxmore Botanics Instagram: @duxmore_botanics

A pinch of tang Blow the cobwebs away with this winter’s bark, lemon and jalapeno infused sea salt, produced at Ventnor Botanic Garden. £3.50, Puya Boutique Shopping Start with self-care Hand-made on the Island, the Macramé yoga mat strap is gracefully crafted from recycled cotton cord. £21, Wight Apothecary Instagram: @wightapothecary

January and February 2022

the Style

scoop

Team Style’s seasona l roundup of places to go, people to meet, and things to k now across the Isle of Wight this winter.

‘Tis the season for… Giving something back Volunteers make a huge contribution to our Island community, and anyone can get involved, regardless of age, job status or skills. From long-term community projects to bitesize ‘microvolunteering’, there are many different opportunities to make a difference whatever your circumstances. Find out more at iwvolunteer.org

Image credit: Idil Sukan

BELLY LAUGHS P utti n g pen to paper Ca l l i ng a l l Isla nd-i nspi red authors: the f i rst ever Isle of Wig ht Book Awa rds a re now open u nti l Ma rch 2022 for entries across th ree categories – f iction, non-f iction a nd ch i ld ren’s. For more i n formation v isit iowbookawa rds.co.u k

A f ter the last couple of yea rs we cou ld a l l do w ith some l ig ht-hea rted f u n. T V favou rite Ed By rne bri ngs h is biggest tou r to date – ‘If I’m Honest’ – to Sha n k l i n T heatre on 22nd Ja nua r y. Joi n h i m as he ta kes a long ha rd look at h i msel f a nd tries to decide i f he has A N Y tra its that a re worth passi ng on to h is ch i ld ren.

Starting something new Get a head start on all those skills-based resolutions and give skep-beehive making a go with Tiny Homes Holidays’ latest workshop, from 5th February. Available as a day guest or residential experience, you’ll go home with the tools, materials, know-how and skills to kickstart your skep-beekeeping journey. For more information visit tinyhomesholidays.com

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Meeting your heroes Fans of The Gruffalo, Zog, Superworm, et al. will be as excited as we are about the Isle of Wight Story Festival’s headline act this year. Children’s illustrator Axel Scheffler will be performing and drawing about how he developed the look of some of his most famous characters on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th February at Quay Arts in Newport.

Feel-good f iction Need a new yea r boost? Lucy Dav ies at the Med i na Bookshop recom mends T he Wedd i ng Dress by Da n i Atk i ns, wh ich tel ls th ree women’s wedd i ng stories – a l l con nected by one ex traord i na r y d ress. A n u lti mately upl i f ti ng roma nce read, f u l l of captivati ng tw ists.

BIG BIRTHDAYS Happy 50th to icon ic Isle of Wig ht fa m i ly busi ness A J Wel ls – see page 18 for ou r specia l a n n iversa r y featu re, celebrati ng ha l f a centu r y of Isla nd i n novation a nd eng i neeri ng.

Celebrati n g l i g ht a nd colou r Welcome i n the Yea r of the Tiger th is Ch i nese New Yea r w ith a da zzl i ng a rray of awa rd-w i n n i ng i l lu m i nations a nd enterta i n ment from 18th - 26th Februa r y at Robi n Hi l l.

Winning young writers We were overwhelmed with the standard of entries to the Second Style of Wight Children’s Writing Competition. Exceptional creative talent and imagination clearly abound among young Island writers, and we are delighted to share the first of the four winning stories on page 32. Winning author Imogen Forsyth was inspired by the story of the Princes in the Tower and has woven a compelling tale. Visit our website at styleofwight.co.uk to discover more about how she developed her story.

January and February 2022

STYLE | Interview

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Interview | STYLE

Keeping the home f ires burning 2022 is a big year for AJ Wells and their flagship company, Charnwood. It marks 50 years of keeping fires crackling in hearths across the country, a herculean task they manage from their bustling factory in Newport on the Isle of Wight.

harnwood. The very name conjures welcoming images of wood burning stoves glowing merrily with dancing flames. Combine this with sleepy family pets stretched lazily out to soak up the warmth and you’ve got a quintessentially British scene, perfect for any brittle winter’s day. With cosy images like this as their lifeblood, it’s no wonder this once small Island company has become one of Britain’s most treasured family businesses. With 2022 being their 50th anniversary, this is the perfect time to explore how they got where they are today. The AJ Wells group of companies are all a product of their time. They have shifted direction to find the

By R ebecca Lawson Ma i n photo Ju l ia n Wi nslow

opportunity in the darkest periods, but to understand how the company has grown into the behemoth it is today, we need to travel back in time. 1972 – The Troubles and the Cold War were both in full swing, Tottenham beat Wolverhampton in the first ever UEFA Cup final, and Edward, Duke of Windsor, passed away 35 years after abdicating from the throne. With all this upheaval in the outside world, Alfred Wells and his two sons quietly founded the company that, in 2022, would become Britain’s oldest manufacturer of wood burning stoves. The story didn’t start with stoves, however. The family began by repairing tractors in a small brick workshop in Niton, nestled on the hills that line

the south coast of the Isle of Wight. Ced Wells, current Creative Director and grandson to Alfred, explains, “Throughout the history of the business, we seem to have been able to find opportunity in crises. The first was when the oil shortages of the 70s forced prices to shoot up. At the same time, Dutch Elm Disease led to millions of trees being felled. People had to heat their homes somehow, so everyone wanted to buy a wood burner. The problem was that the only wood burners available were great big things not suitable for residences, so we moved away from repairing tractors and worked to create a smaller stove that would fit into lounge rooms.” Thus the iconic Charnwood Beacon was born.

Above: The Wells family dog Wellington starred in 1980s marketing campaigns

January and February 2022

STYLE | Interview

The business evolves to meet changing demand, but the attraction of wood burning remains eternal.

“We, as humans, have been burning wood since the dawn of time – we sit around a fire and tell stories.” The company grew organically from there and AJ Wells is now the umbrella name of several operations, each with its own identity. They produce a mixture of products – including the station signs for the London Underground and Paris Metro – but perhaps the most exciting offering in 2022 is Vlaze. This operation makes enamel kitchens that are shipping as far afield as the US. “We call them inside-out kitchens because they’re on wheels so they can easily be moved indoors or out – that makes them

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perfect for open-plan living.” It’s not all been plain sailing, however. Recent concern about smoke pollution has led the company to invest in greener technologies, and their newest development sounds like a product of the future. “You open the door,” Ced explains, “put the logs in, close the door and walk away. Then the stove monitors how the fire is burning and adjusts the air controls automatically. As long as your wood is dry and you’ve lit the match, the fire will burn at its most efficient and cleanest rate, and

then it pings you on your phone when you need to put another log on. It could revolutionise the way we burn wood.” Despite their obvious success, the heart of the company lies with people not product, a fact that is obvious the moment you walk through the door. Alice, the fresh-faced young receptionist, is the fourth generation of the Wells family to work in the business. It is rare to find a family so close these days, especially one that seems to work and play together so seamlessly. “We grew up in the business, so I guess we take it for granted,” Ced says. “It’s always been a part of who we are. When we were younger, dad used to bring back thermostat knobs and various bits

Interview | STYLE

Family values: working, playing and growing together is at the heart of AJ Wells’ success.

and pieces and he’d pay us 10p each to paint them, so we’ve always been involved from a young age. Then, as we got older, we just naturally drifted towards it.” These deep roots extend to the place where the company was born. “The Island is intrinsic to who we are. There are cottages in Niton that still have original Charnwood Beacon stoves installed. The business is completely intertwined with the community, it has actually become our story – it fuels our creativity and is the inspiration behind much of our design and marketing.” It isn’t just the Island way of life that inspires their marketing campaigns. Charnwood advertisements have famously featured the family dog

alongside a roaring fire since the 80s. Wellington the cocker spaniel was the first face of the company, and his luscious tawny locks could not be bettered as he poses proudly in the early ad campaigns. Wellington, bless his heart, has long gone and now it is Toast the chocolate labrador who sits in front of the Wells family stoves. With people the cornerstone of the company, it seems obvious that Ced names the mental wellbeing of wood burning as another huge factor in their success. “We, as humans, have been burning wood since the dawn of time – we sit around a fire and tell stories. It brings the family together, ignites all the senses and helps people switch off – analogue in this digital age – you can’t get this kind of thing from a radiator.” Wellbeing is clearly important to the family. Hugh Wells, the Managing Director, says, “AJ Wells really is a story of hope. This is especially important at the moment when there is so much fear. We are lucky to be in the position to give people stable employment – it

is an exciting time for the company, and we want to be able to channel that, to provide a beacon, a home and warmth in the face of fear.” Responsibility for their employees is something the family takes very seriously, and this was instilled in the company DNA by AJ Wells himself. “When we started,” says Hugh, “the main aim was to make enough money to enable us to eat and pay the mortgage. In one sense it hasn’t changed, only now – with around 180 employees – it’s more mouths to feed and more mortgages to pay.” It seems clear that, despite its international success, 50 years down the line AJ Wells has remained at its core a business about people not products. From anyone else this could sound like disingenuous marketing, but Ced Wells is so unalloyed and honest that it is not difficult to believe he truly means what he says. Keeping it in the family is truly the code of practice at AJ Wells, and that may well be their superpower.

January and February 2022

STYLE | Art

Human race rosettes

With Lauren Fr y, Arts Educator

n today’s fast paced, competitive world we often focus on the things that make us unique and individual, forgetting the importance of feeling connected to others. To celebrate your connection to others throughout the world, make yourself a ‘Member of the Human Race’ rosette and wear it with pride. Once you have perfected the process of crafting beautiful rosettes the possibilities are endless: celebrate your own sense of belonging by creating membership rosettes for your family, friends, class or club.

Materia ls Coloured card, felt, foam or fabric Plain paper Ribbon Tin foil roasting tray Safety pin

Pencil and biro Scissors Glue Compass or a series of different sized circular objects

1. Draw 4 – 7 different sized circles on your plain paper – you can either do this with a compass or use a series of different sized cups/mugs. Cut out your circles and set aside the smallest one for later. We are going to use the remaining circles to create templates: to do this fold each circle in half 3 times to create an eighth then carefully cut the end. Here, I have made 2 cuts to create a point. Unfold your template. You can now simply stick your template onto one of your pieces of coloured card/felt/ foam/fabric and cut around it neatly.

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Art | STYLE

2. For this template I have cut a curve instead of a point to create a flowerlike shape. Experiment with how many different shapes you can create from your folded circles.

3. Now you have a range of rosette shapes you are ready to create your tin badge.

4. On the smallest paper circle, design a ‘Member of the Human Race’ logo. Use simple block lettering and bold shapes. As we are going to be embossing our design we need it in reverse, like a mirror image; to do this I simply leaned against a window and traced over my design onto the back of the paper.

5. Draw around your small logo circle onto your tin roasting tray; ask an adult to cut this out as the edges may be sharp. To emboss your design lay the tin circle on a soft surface – here I have used a piece of art foam, but you could use cardboard or a tea towel. Place your reverse design on top of the tin and using a biro carefully trace over your design. You will need to press quite hard to make sure your design is clear.

6. Now for the finishing touches. To create the tails of your rosette glue together strips of ribbon and card/felt/foam/fabric. Repeat this process so you have 2 matching sets. If you would like to wear your rosette as a badge, cut 2 small slits in a piece of card or foam and thread your safety pin through. Assemble your creation by gluing your layers and tails together.

7. Glue your safety pin panel onto the back of your rosette and voila! Go forth and celebrate your connections and sense of belonging.

Fi nd out more about Lau ren’s i l lustration work at stud iow ren.co.u k or fol low her on I nsta g ra m @stud io_w ren January and February 2022

STYLE | Art

Dresses and dreams Meet the ma ker Ka ren Dornellie

By Tra cy Cu r tis Pictu res Ti m i Eross

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Karen Robb’s exquisite sewing sk i l ls have prov ided her with many memorable experiences in life. A recently inva luable one was helping coordinate over 100 loca l sewers to produce 2,800 scrubs for hea lthcare workers during lockdown. Than k f u l ly, things are now look ing up, and she can return to her preferred env ironment of si l ks, lace and spark le, using her creativ ity and years of experience to ma ke the most beautif u l dresses most women wi l l ever wear.

Art | STYLE

astering the sewing machine from a young age, Karen went on to study fashion design at Croydon Art College, but it wasn’t until moving to the Island in 2000 that she began making a living from her passion. Landing a job as a high-end costume maker, she spent many years creating ornately detailed costumes for west end productions such as The Lion King, and films like Pirates of the Caribbean 2. In 2009, Karen started selling wedding veils online, while also running sewing classes. Her wedding business and reputation as a seamstress grew, and now, as bridal designer Karen Dornellie, she can create dream wedding dresses and accessories from her new

showroom and workshop, next to Isle of Wight Pearl.

“Fashion isn’t known for being sustainable, but we can now get wedding fabrics made from bananas and oranges that feel just like silk.”

There’s an art to creating the perfect wedding dress, and it’s a huge responsibility. Karen says, “A wedding day is all about the bride, and any insecurities about her appearance will be magnified. By tailoring a dress, I can work with the customer to hide any parts they aren’t happy with, and make sure they’ll feel beautiful, comfortable and confident on their big day.” Karen loves helping customers make their wedding day dreams come to life. “If you want to look like a princess, this is the one day you can do it. The rulebook about what clothes suit which body shapes is rubbish, it’s all about getting the right proportions. The client will show me her ideas, and we work January and February 2022

STYLE | Art

together to bring all those aspects into one design. I start by sketching the silhouette. It’s important the shape’s not top-heavy, too big, that they’ll be comfortable, and to think about how it will feel on them. Then I work out what the mechanics will be to achieve this. Does it have net or a hoop? Should it be pleated or gathered? Will it have lace? Are we incorporating colour, or glitter? I get really excited about the details, a delicate fabric, a rose gold zip, it’s so different for every dress.” After making up a toile in cheaper fabric, the customer can try it on for Karen to refine the look and fit. Once all the materials are decided, Karen can work her magic to create the actual dress. With made to measure, her customers can get exactly what they want. “They control every aspect, from fabric costs, where a metre of lace can cost £10 or £400, to ethical considerations. Fashion isn’t known for being sustainable, but we can now get wedding fabrics made from bananas and oranges that feel just like silk.” Karen likes to promote sustainability in her fashion and bridal wear, and finds ways to create as little impact herself

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as possible. She’s now working with pattern cutter Sue Field on various packages to help customers make their own dream wedding dress. “I’ve designed five dresses, each made up in three types of fabric to show how the same pattern can be made to look very different. I can also order fabrics, provide accessories, and give support

through the making on Zoom.” Karen is also continuing her sewing classes at the new site, where students bring in their own projects to make under her expert guidance. “It’s not really the mechanics of the sewing that’s hard, it’s having the confidence to go ahead and do it. If you just get to a point where you can

Art | STYLE

make something fit you, or recreate an item you loved wearing, it’s a really satisfying achievement. My classes are more than just learning to sew, there’s the social aspect. Sewing can be great therapy, but people get too busy for it in their daily lives. Classes give people a good reason to set time aside for it.”

Karen is thrilled to welcome new clients to her beautifully designed new showroom, and excited for the future as the wedding world opens up again. “I just love making and creating, and want to continue with more of my own designs. I’m in an incredible location, and I’ll be working with Isle of Wight Pearl to offer consultation packages

including lunch or afternoon tea here. I want to make sure that anyone who comes through the door will want to recommend me. I’ve always had good feedback, but I want my reputation to be second to none, with everyone leaving here happy.” w w w.dornel l ie.com Instag ra m @ka ren _dornel l ie January and February 2022

STYLE | Art

Style spectrum Dan Locke

Dan Locke – an Isle of Wight postman – has a lways been draw n to photog raphy, and draw n to the Isle of Wight. A f ter travel ling the world (from Austra lia and Ba li to Prag ue and Croatia) w ith partner Ch loe and a camera in hand, the couple fel l in love w ith the Island’s natura l beauty and are now based here f u l l time.

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Art | STYLE

There is something special about Islands, Dan agrees. The couple recently visited friends in Scotland; here Dan shares a few of the stunning images captured which draw breath-taking parallels between the Isle of Wight and the Isle of Skye, some 700 miles north. “With the exception of Scotland’s humungous mountains, the rural landscapes and sense of isolation are very similar,” Dan says.

Opposite: Navigating the way: setting direction at Freshwater Bay and wildflowers growing at Neist Point, Isle of Skye Above: From one Lighthouse to another: Neist Point, Isle of Skye and St. Catherine’s Lighthouse, Niton Undercliff

da n locke.co.u k | Instag ra m: @da n _ locke January and February 2022

STYLE | Art

Island hopping: a picnic in the Caddy on the Isle of Wight’s Culver down and hitting the open road en route to the Isle of Skye

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Art | STYLE

Living on the Edge: ‘The Pink House’ at Loch Glass and Freshwater

January and February 2022

First of four Style of Wight Children’s Writing Competition winning stories…

Riding Towards Freedom By Imogen Forsy th, A ge 12, from Gurnard I l lustration Ju les Ma rri ner My name is Edward. I was meant to be the king of England in 1483, but that all changed the moment I was put on a carriage heading for The Tower of London aged only 12. I arrived in the morning and was told that my younger brother Prince Richard would be arriving that afternoon. I had never met my brother, but today I would be able to embrace him and play with him until the day of my coronation. My brother arrived just before dinner. I could see his eyes light up when he saw me. We both looked a lot like each other even though I was 3 years older than him. He ran over to me, we hugged, started chatting and ran off to finally get to know each other. Together we enjoyed archery, fencing and rolling on the grass. He was the best friend I never had, I knew from that moment on, I wanted to spend my entire life with him. The closer we got to the coronation date, the less I was able to see him. The coins were being minted and most of my time was taken up with preparations. Luckily, we were sharing a room together and at night we were able to catch up and talk about what we did that day. In July, Richard, our protector, had found out something horrible. Legally, I wasn’t the heir to the throne. There was a document stating my father was already engaged to another woman before he was married to my mother. This news meant that my brother and I weren't heirs to the throne. The new heir was Uncle Richard. I was so scared, I had no idea what was going to happen to us. That night I dreamt about dreadful things they would do now we weren’t heirs to the throne. Would they send us off to live in some poor area of England to punish us for being illegitimate? Would they kill us and make it sound like an accident? I decided I didn’t want to know. I hatched a plan and told my brother in the morning. My plan was that we would fake our deaths using old pig skulls and bury them at the bottom of the stairs leading up to one of the towers. Then we would take two of the horses and escape to the countryside to start a new life. My brother liked this idea. He asked me when we would put our plan into action. I told him we would leave tonight. Just as we discussed, we took the skulls from the kitchen bins and quickly threw some mud over the top of them. We rushed over to the horses, tacked them up and galloped out of the gates towards freedom. No one ever found out what really happened to us. Some say we were murdered, some say we fell. But luckily, only a few know the truth.

January and February 2022

STYLE | Art

Mindful

photography 1. Delight in the ordinary

Pete Lock Photography

By Tra cy Ca lder, co-fou nder of the a n nua l Close-up Photog rapher of the Yea r competition

indfulness is a word that’s bandied about a lot these days, but there seems to be some confusion as to what it actually means. Basically, mindfulness means paying attention. Most photographers (and artists) would argue that they are already mindful, but none of us is completely immune to the monkey chatter that babbles away inside our heads. We might be composing a picture when an internal voice shouts, ‘That’s rubbish, don't even bother,’ so we put our cameras away and move on. When our mind is full of judgements, thoughts, feelings and emotions, there is no room for creative thinking, but when we acknowledge these thoughts and let them pass, we make space for moments of perception to occur. The following exercises are designed to encourage a more mindful approach to photography.

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Photographer Diane Arbus once said, ‘The Chinese have a theory that you pass through boredom into fascination, and I think it’s true.’ One way of achieving this state of heightened awareness is to select a ‘boring’ subject such as a kettle, brush or, in this instance, a boat hull, and shoot it from as many angles as possible. Notice any lines, textures, patterns, shapes or shadows and how they relate to one another. If you experience boredom, just acknowledge this feeling and carry on. Bembridge Harbour is a great place to practise your skills.

2. Stay well connected Everything is connected. Think about the elements required to support a tree: the roots to absorb moisture and minerals from the soil, the trunk that supports the limbs and the bark that protects it from external attack. A tree needs sunlight to trigger photosynthesis, rain for moisture and wind to disperse its seeds. In reality, nothing is ever truly isolated – use this knowledge to inform your work. Examples of interconnectedness can be found all around you, but areas such as Nodes Point (with its rockpools) and Parkhurst Forest (with its patches of ancient woodland) are great places to start.

Art | STYLE

3. Celebrate imperfection Life is in a state of flux – even rocks that appear solid bear the scars of time passing. The Japanese have a term ‘wabi sabi’ to describe their appreciation of things that are imperfect, incomplete or transient. It’s the joy of a vase with a deep crack that traverses its side like a river, the celebration of a flower as it wilts and becomes sculptural, admiration for a manhole cover as it ages and turns into street art. If we place too much emphasis on perfection and permanency, we risk missing the photo opportunities at our feet.

4. Don’t be afraid of the dark For some photographers, shadows are something to be eliminated, but when used sensitively they can direct a viewer’s gaze, create mystery, describe form, emphasise texture and add beauty to a composition – they can even be the subject of a picture themselves. The appearance of shadows (how intense, defined, big or small they are) depends on the size, angle and distance of the light source in relation to the object casting the shadow. Striking buildings, such as Quarr Abbey, offer plenty of opportunities for shadow play.

5. Embrace the negative Most of the time we see the world as a series of objects separated by space – our eyes flit from one object to the next, ignoring the ‘negative’ space between. But negative space should not be thought of as empty; it has an energy and a life of its own. It can help us to work out which parts of a scene belong together, provide space for objects to move (or grow) into, and emphasise the shape and form of key elements. Negative space provides room for thoughts, ideas and creativity to flourish. Frame one of the huts at Small Hope Beach against an empty sky and you’ll soon see what I mean.

January and February 2022

STYLE | Feature

AND THE POLISH ENTREPRENEUR WHO BUILT IT

By Ja mes R ay ner

Facing the calm blue waters of Sandown Bay, behind rusting metal fences and piles of rubble, with roof timbers blackened by fire, stands the remains of one of the Island’s most elegant and important buildings: The Ocean Hotel. Interestingly, but unknown to many, Sandown owes this building to the work and creativity of a Polish-born entrepreneur named Henryk Loewenfeld.

orn into a financially troubled family of Jewish merchants in Chrzanów, a town 30 miles from Kraków, Henryk sensed his future lay elsewhere and moved to Britain in the 1880s. He began trading in stain removers and Swiss cuckoo clocks before establishing the first non-alcoholic beer makers in London: Kops Brewery. He also began to invest in theatres, including the Lyric and the Prince of Wales, before ultimately having the Apollo Theatre built himself in 1900.

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However, a few years before anyone would tread the boards of his new stage, something brought Henryk to Sandown where an opportunity arose to acquire a string of seaside properties including the struggling King’s Head Hotel. Whilst other buildings were demolished to make way for a brandnew structure, the King’s Head – whose former guests had included Charles Darwin and Lewis Carroll – was spared and incorporated into Loewenfeld’s grand scheme.

Henryk Lowenfeld. Credit: The Irena and Mieczysław Mazaraki Museum in Chrzanów, Public Domain.

Feature | STYLE

The Ocean Hotel: a commanding presence on Sandown Esplanade, courtesy Isle of Wight County Record Office

Plans for the new Ocean Hotel were drawn up by the architect Lewin Sharp – the same man Henryk would ask to design the Apollo – and much of the work was undertaken by Islandborn builder James Hayden. As the scaffolding came down, after a year of construction, a truly astounding building was revealed, complete with Italianate cornicing and neoclassical columns. It contained 150 luxurious rooms, spread across five spacious floors, with its own bathing machines, pleasure boats and even a horse-drawn coach. From the Esplanade, guests would cross the sweeping lawn that overlooked the bay, before passing into the hotel’s Jacobean-panelled entrance hall. Turning left, they could take a seat in the bright and airy dining-room, decorated with green and gold tapestry panels and Chippendale furniture – said to be an exact copy of Queen Victoria’s

private dining-room at Windsor. Menus included salmon in lobster sauce and quail with vine leaves, served by the hotel’s dedicated staff, who wore nautical, naval-inspired uniforms, and were overseen by the newly appointed manager, Monsieur F. Garin, formerly of The Savoy in London. The opulent bedrooms were decorated in pink, yellow and green; and a stateof-the-art lift could take visitors to the top floor where they were greeted with a panoramic rooftop garden, complete with tents and easy chairs – supposedly the perfect place to take coffee under the stars. The grand opening in May 1899 was a huge success, with 70 London journalists coming by special train to see it. Soon the Ocean Hotel was fully booked and could count Princess Beatrice, Princess Stéphanie of Belgium, and the Hungarian Count

Lónyay amongst its guests and diners. However, in 1905, Henryk decided to sell The Ocean Hotel to Alphonse Gérard of the Cafe Royal in London, and later moved to Paris where he’d spend the rest of his life – leaving behind this iconic new building as his legacy to Sandown. Today, a blue plaque adorns Kops Brewery to mark its importance and its connection to Loewenfeld, whilst the Apollo Theatre continues to attract thousands of people each year. Sadly though, the Ocean Hotel’s future still hangs in the balance, making it all the more important to tell the story of this remarkable building before it is potentially lost forever.

January and February 2022

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Food | STYLE

A WORLD OF TASTES ON AN ISLE OF WIGHT PLATE From Polish pastries to Spanish sides, tantalising tandooris to the perfect pad thai, there’s certainly more to Isle of Wight food than you might think at first glance

Over a hundred years since Queen Victoria’s Indian cooks first polished their pans and lit their stoves on Island soil, international influences are still an integral part of our local food scene. Now a new generation of chefs and restaurateurs are bringing the best of world cuisine to our doorstep, introducing inventive reimaginings and preserving historic family recipes to transport us to other cultures – and the results are simply superb. So follow us as we pull up a chair and unfurl our napkins at a few of our favourite venues.

January and February 2022

STYLE | Food

LOOK EAST The sound of gently breaking waves and seagulls calling isn’t the soundtrack you’d expect for a venue that’s caused something of a local earthquake. However, chef and owner GC Giancovich has been breaking new ground ever since he first opened the now-infamous Smoking Lobster restaurant on Ventnor Esplanade back in 2017. Combining reimagined pan-Asian cuisine and using the best of Isle of Wight produce he’s developed a menu that’s really tough to choose from (unless that is, you order it all). Choices include whole bass baked in garlic and ginger, tempura squid with sweet chilli sauce and a dessert of pandan doughnuts with passion fruit and white chocolate curd. Alongside a sister branch in Cowes, GC and sister Cinzia also launched the Island’s first izakaya bar in Ventnor’s Pier Street – The Drunken Lobster – a concept taken straight from the streets of Tokyo. Here a slimmed-down selection of tasty small plates complement wine, cocktails and a range of Japanese spirits including sake, gin, vodka and Suntory blended whisky. If East Asian drinks are new territory for you, help is it at hand, as Cinzia can provide expert recommendations, returning from 15 years in London’s hospitality scene to take up the role of ‘sake sommelier’. Smoking Lobster, Ventnor Beach Instagram @smokinglobsterventnor | 01983 855938 Smoking Lobster, Cowes Marina Instagram @smokinglobstercowes | 01983 240168 Drunken Lobster, Ventnor Town Instagram @drunkenlobsterbar smokinglobster.co.uk

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Food | STYLE

MIDDLE EASTERN MEETS CENTRAL EUROPE For Central European flavours, with a side of Middle Eastern spice, the perhaps unlikely setting of The Fishbourne Inn is certainly the place to go. Head chef Jarek Kozak has been making a name for himself in recent months, drawing on his Polish heritage and culinary expertise to wow local diners with dishes that include slow-braised cabbage leaves stuffed with venison, smoked pancetta and rice. What’s more, he also manages to seamlessly weave locally grown Isle of Wight ingredients into these standout signature dishes. His wonderfully rich and warming creations also include a number of notable North African plates that have quickly become firm favourites on The Fishbourne menu. Having previously worked in a Middle Eastern inspired restaurant in Brighton, he was trained in the intricate cooking techniques of this distinctive cuisine; mixing earthy spices and developing complex flavour combinations. Look out for Jarek’s Moroccan marinated lamb shank served with pomme purée and the pan-fried seabass with fresh chermoula sauce (think: spiced coriander pesto). Already a master of (at least) two international cuisines, it’s clear there’s still much more to come from this talented Polish chef. The Fishbourne, Wootton Bridge | innsofdistinction.co.uk Instagram: @innsofdistinction | 01983 882823

ITALIAN INFLUENCES Specialising in Northern Italian food, warm welcomes and unrivalled hospitality is Ristorante Michelangelo – something of a Ryde institution. For 21 years, Anna, Dante and Rosy have been offering diners a glimpse (and taste) of their extraordinary homeland cuisine, influenced by the nature, tradition and culture of the areas they grew up in. A small village in Emilia Romagna is where Anna called home, a region famous for Parma ham and Parmesan cheese. She still remembers seeing hundreds of hams hanging from the open windows of houses in her valley, slowly drying in the breeze from the Appennino hills. Twice a week she’d make pasta with her mum: tagliatelle, ravioli, tortelli

or cappelletti – one version of which – the pumpkin and sheep’s cheese filled Tortelli di Zucca, can be sampled from the Michelangelo menu today. Another dish with a personal backstory is the Tagliatelle Rustiche which comes from friend Rosy, who joined Anna and Dante on their move to the Isle of Wight. A native of hilly Valdobbiadene – below the snow-capped Dolomite mountains, she brought influences from even further north, including this speciality of egg ribbon pasta combined with cream, mushroom, walnut and a local type of smoked ham called Speck. Ristorante Michelangelo, Ryde ristorantemichelangelo.co.uk Facebook: @Michelangelo Restaurant IOW 01983 811966 January and February 2022

STYLE | Food This past year they gathered 2.5 tonnes of fresh olives which were turned into 260 litres of crystal-clear single press extra virgin olive oil, some of which made its way to Isola a few months ago.

FROM SICILY WITH LOVE

Whether you’re partial to an americano, cortado or even a chai tea latte, the cafe’s own-label Island Roasted coffee is also not to be missed. Setting the benchmark as unbeatable local experts, Dan has been refining the art of roasting and grinding coffee beans with his fleet of impressive machines since 2006. Caffè Isola, Newport islandroasted.co.uk | Instagram @caffeisola 01983 524800

Following the scent of freshly ground coffee through the characterful and independent Node Hill neighbourhood of Newport brings you to Caffè Isola - a favoured spot for caffeine connoisseurs. Viviana, a familiar face in the open-plan kitchen, is a born and bred Sicilian, bringing with her a number of local specialities such as cannoli (a ricotta cheese filled pastry) and pasta di

A LITTLE BIT OF EVERYTHING YOU FANCY

mandorla (a festive biscuit made with ground almond and lemon zest – it’s a family recipe too!) Links to the Mediterranean island remain strong, as each autumn the Burgess family returns to Viviana’s birthplace – San Michele di Ganzaria, a village to the southwest of Mount Etna – to help her family harvest their olives.

If you’re looking for shelves and counters lined with the best of home and abroad, set coordinates for the ancient town of Yarmouth and its well-stocked, well-loved delicatessen. Here you can find Isle of Wight jam sitting comfortably alongside the likes of Italian pancetta, Provençale anchovies and even Icelandic-style skyr yoghurt (made on a farm in Suffolk!) Rolling up his sleeves and donning his whites is Kevin – a Head Chef with a sweet tooth and a background in classic French cooking. His training gave him a deep understanding of flavour combinations and how far-flung herbs and spices can help elevate and transform more Westerninspired dishes. Recent additions to the takeaway specials board have included chef’s stroganoff, goulash

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and frittata as well as a Hungarian spiced sausage slice – all of which are snapped up by local foodies before they’ve really had a chance to leave the kitchen. Kevin also oversees Yarmouth Deli’s in-house patisserie (which is complemented by a select range from speciality baker Délice de France on his days off). Amongst his tarts, buns, cakes and pastries, we’d especially recommend the lamingtons – a sweet fought over by both Australia and New Zealand – made by covering buttery squares of sponge cake with rich melted chocolate and rolling in desiccated coconut. Yarmouth Deli, The Square, Yarmouth yarmouthfoodlovers.co.uk Instagram @yarmouthfoodloversmarket 01983 652991

Food | STYLE

Chana masala

for chilly day time dates “Ch ick pea s a re cheap a nd pa cked w it h protei n; t h i s Ch a na ma sa la (refer red to a s ‘chole’ i n P u njabi cu i si ne) i s a fa mou s favou r ite, a nd a fa nt a st ic exa mple of how ba sic i n g red ients ca n be tu r ned i nto a hea r ty, nou r i sh i n g mea l w it h a ma zi n g t a stes a nd tex tu res.” – R ich a rd Sayce, aut hor of ‘Cu r r y Compend iu m’ F u l l recipe on l i ne at styleof w i g ht .co.u k Recipe cred it: f rom Cu rr y Compend iu m by Richa rd Sayce, ava i lable on l i ne a nd i n a l l good book shops, £24.99. January and February 2022

tted to s mi

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COME & JOIN US

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MORE THAN JUST PUBS

ortyour

NEW EVENTS BOOK NOW FOR 2022

JANUARY 25TH Burn’s night celebration with an authentic special menu from our head chef Matt

JANUARY 29TH Chinese New Year celebration with a menu from our head chef Jarek

FEBRUARY 17TH Wine and cheese tasting hosted by an expert from our wine supplier Eurovines. It’s Full on February with 20% off selected drinks

FEBRUARY After Dry January at The Fishbourne it’s Full on February with 20% off selected drinks

MARCH MIDWEEK Double discount for all of our Loyalty Club members, if you are not already a member ask in the pub and join today!

MARCH 17TH & 18TH St Patricks day bash, it’s not all about the Guinness, but our special menu too!

01983 810616 theboathouseiow.co.uk

01983 882823 theﬁshbourne.co.uk

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Please see our social media or call the pubs for more details and to reserve your places

Inns of Distinction continue to be fully committed to Covid safety. All of our events will take place entirely in adherence with the current guidelines

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Food | STYLE

Chicken madras for cosy nights in

“T h i s hot, savou r y, t a n g y, smoot h, tomato-ba sed cu r r y recreates a ty pica l Ma d ra s you wou ld eat i n a good I nd ia n rest au ra nt. Despite h av i n g relat ively few i n g red ients, when cooked cor rect ly it w i l l h ave a ma zi n g f lavou r layers.” - R ich a rd Sayce, aut hor of ‘Cu r r y Compend iu m’ F u l l recipe on l i ne at styleof w i g ht .co.u k Recipe cred it: f rom Cu rr y Compend iu m by Richa rd Sayce, ava i lable on l i ne a nd i n a l l good book shops, £24.99. January and February 2022

INTRODUCING MULTI-AWARD WINNING EXECUTIVE CHEF Matthew Tomkinson

LUNCH DINNER GARDEN BAR

Wednesday to Sunday Tuesday to Saturday Open daily subject to weather Open daily from 11am

Hambrough Road, Ventnor, PO38 1SQ Tel. 01983 856333 www. thehambrough.com

Roasted savoy cabbage with Harissa yoghurt and chilli cr umbs “Look i n g at t he hea r t of a savoy cabba ge w rapped up i n its ja cket of w i nter leaves ju st ma kes you t h i n k of cold days a nd hea r ty mea ls. One of t he most cold-h a rdy of w i nter veget ables, ‘savoys’ a re ju st a s much about tex tu re a s t a ste; its na me comes f rom t he ‘cr u mpled’ or ‘savoyed’ leaves a nd it’s t h i s st r uctu re t h at g ives it its d i st i nct ive cr u nch when cooked. I ncred ibly versat i le, we love to ser ve t hese h a r i ssa-spi ked roa sted wed ges w it h stewed meat or a s a pla nt-ba sed ma i n.” F u l l recipe on l i ne at styleof w i g ht .co.u k – Wi l l Stewa rd , f rom fa m i l y- ow ned , Soi l A ssoci at ion cer t i f ied Orga n ic fa r m L iv i n g La rder January and February 2022

Vip Valentine

DINING CLUB EXPERIENCE SMOKING LOBSTER, COWES

SATURDAY 12TH FEBRUARY Exquisite Valentines Tasting Menu created by Chef/Owner GC Giancovich and team at Smoking Lobster, GOLD WINNERS 2020-21 Red Funnel Best Restuarant Stunning live saxophone performance ...plus surpises to delight your senses

£120pp

~ limited spaces, early booking essential ~

SMOKING LOBSTER TASTING MENU

Hibiscus Martini Welcome Drink ~ King prawn, chilli & lobster crystal dumplings ~ Charsui roast monkfish, tempura broccoli ~ Chinese turnip & kombu dashi cake, sweet & sour grilled octopus ~ Tempura Langoustine, hijiki seaweed & pickled watermelon rind tacos ~ Sous vide aged koji beef fillet, red nasu dengaku, pak choy, crispy rice ~ Dark chocolate & peanut mochi, dark chocolate mousse, torched miso marshmallow, lychee, vanilla & raspberry tart

BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES

email: hannah@blackswanevent.co.uk to apply for the Style of Wight Dining Club email office@styleofwight.co.uk

Food | STYLE

January and February 2022

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Food | STYLE

People with style

NATURAL BEAUTY By Jo Ma cau ley Pictu re Mega n Cla rke

When meeting with Cris Arago Pedley, the first thing you notice is her beautiful skin, which isn’t surprising when you learn that she makes and uses all the skin and beauty products which she sells at her shop Metier Ingenuity. There are no chemicals in any of the products, and Cris utilises her experience helping in her father’s pharmaceutical lab in the Philippines to create the lines. “My father taught me all about the use of natural, organic ingredients. I learnt blending from him when I was a child,” she recalls fondly. Cris’s father, Pio B Arago, a chemist and herbalist, invented many herbal products back in her home in the Philippines in 1952. “One of his famous products Arago Tonico Robusto, a health supplement that you drink, is found in most households in the Philippines,” says Cris. Cris’s first business venture was a small pub, which is where she met her business partner Roche, and Cris went on to open a number of further pubs and restaurants. “When I finished my degrees in Psychology and Business, I stayed away from this kind of business,” she adds. In 2000 Cris started a travel agency in the Philippines, and she was the British visa assessor for eight years. But in 2008 she sold up and came to the Isle of Wight with her two young sons (whose father originated from the Island). “I worked as a Healthcare Assistant, but a friend pestered me to create a bath bomb. I was inspired by Cleopatra and made the bath bomb with shea butter and buttermilk. But it wouldn’t bind. That interested me, I love a challenge, and eventually with the right measurements we got it to bind. “I began selling to friends and colleagues and word got out on Facebook. Then we did a trade fair in Northwood House last summer.” Opening a small shop in Holyrood Street in October 2020, they moved to their current location at the end of June 2021. Nestled in St Thomas’s Square, in the cut through to Pyle Street, her shop Metier Ingenuity has grown through word of mouth. None of Cris’s products have preservatives or added water and they contain no chemicals. The style of packaging is clean, white and simple. Bath bombs are wrapped in palm waste wax paper, which is sustainable and recycled. “Through the pandemic people have still supported us – it’s been overwhelming. We wanted to give something back to the community, so I asked people if they wanted to put their home-made products in our shop for free. Our company ethos is “Luxury at the most affordable cost.”

Style is? For me style is very personal and individual. Money equals success? No. What does Island living mean to you? It means home. Icons or inspirations? My father. Blunders and what you learned? Many through my life: some have taught me about trust, some about love, some about where my focus should be; every one has to be taken as a learning experience. Top tips? Perseverance, hard work and being resilient, determination, passion and self-discipline. Facing the future? With a smile, ready for new opportunities.

Cris kept the premises in Holyrood Street and Metier give facials, massages and beauty treatments at both locations. January and February 2022

Health and Beauty | STYLE

Feeling good

Dr. Hayley Elsmore is on a mission to help Islanders love the way they look

s an Island GP of 16 years, Dr. Hayley Elsmore was all too aware of how low body confidence affects so many; when tragedy struck her own family six years ago, she decided it was time for a change. Putting her skills to a different use, her dream for Newport’s Courtyard Aesthetic Clinic was born. With a vision of elevating Isle of Wight aesthetics to new heights, she wanted to help people feel happier in their own skin. “The clinic has given me the opportunity to help people in a different way,” she says. “As a GP I was in the privileged position to understand how difficult life is for many and how anxiety, low mood and a lack of selfconfidence is commonplace. “Giving men and women a boost with how they look can have a huge impact on the way they feel about themselves. Treating common skin conditions, such as acne, rosacea and ageing skin issues, can make all the difference to their lives.” Passionate about making medicalgrade skincare accessible for all, Dr Elsmore’s new clinic offers high-end products from the world-renowned ZO Skin Health and Circadia at affordable prices.

beyond to understand their needs. “I make it my mission to understand exactly what my clients want, no hard sell. Just small adjustments are all most people need, a little goes a long way.

Above all, her vision is to create beautiful and natural results for her clients, and she goes above and

“I am fortunate enough to have some incredible equipment at my fingertips and the positive reaction from clients

as they emerge literally glowing after one of our treatments really lifts my soul. I’m proud to make a positive difference to people’s lives and I have never looked back.” Find out how Dr. Elsmore can help you love the way you look with a free consultation. Visit thecourtyardcliniciw.co.uk or call 01983 241214 to book.

Images: Dr. Hayley Elsmore, credit: Stephanie Mackrill Photography. Courtyard Aesthetic Clinic, credit: Holly Jolliffe

January and February 2022

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Health and Beauty | STYLE

PA U S E A N D B E G RAT E F U L By Ca rol i ne Hu rley I.I.H.H.T. A RT( R eg) W EL L BEI NG PR ACTITION ER , H EA LTH W EL L SOLU TIONS & BECA L M ED SPA

“For my part, I am almost contented just now, and very thankful. Gratitude is a divine emotion: it fills the heart, but not to bursting; it warms it, but not to fever.” Charlotte Bronte

hese words were written nearly 200 years ago and are just as relevant now. The following mindful practices encourage reflection, giving you a moment to pause and consider the many things you have to be grateful for each day. As you do so, your breathing will slow, heart rate will become calmer, and you will feel happier. Despite all that is going on in our world now, looking for the bright spots will help you feel more optimistic about the future. Three gratitudes When you train your brain to think about three new things that you are grateful for each day, it will start to set a new neurological pattern of looking for positives, rather than negatives. Eventually, it will become a habit: until then, put aside a specific time each day – while brushing

your teeth, or making your first cup of coffee – or set a reminder on your phone. Journaling Writing down a positive experience each day helps your brain to relive it. Journaling your positive experiences also allows you to look back on the week/month and feel good about something, even when going through a stressful or unhappy time. When times are tough, it might feel difficult to practise gratitude – but this is exactly when we need it most. Practising gratitude allows us to pause, observe the thoughts in our heads and enables us to face the present moment from a place of happiness rather than allowing our past feelings or future emotions to run away with us.

January and February 2022

STYLE | Health and Beauty

Small changes,

big steps By Hattie Ma cA nd rews Con f idence a nd Mi ndset Coa ch

Believe it or not, it’s that time of year again. January, the month we ma ke a series of fanci f u l promises to become a better, shinier version of ourselves, a l l in honour of the New Year.

hether it’s to lose weight, take up a new sport, run the marathon or learn how to cook – we’ve all been there. Perhaps you’ve been on those first few jogs, have been drinking less, or you’ve been sticking to a new diet, in which case I applaud you. In most cases, it’s only a matter of time before the inevitable happens – work/family/ life gets in the way and you forget all about the new shiny you. You feel guilty and disappointed for giving up, but life goes on. What if it didn’t have to be like this? What if you could learn the art of setting sustainable goals and finding the motivation to really see them through? Of course you can, here’s how:

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1. Understanding your ‘why’? A common theme for clients at this time of the year is understanding the art of breaking down goals, and more importantly, knowing how to stick to them. I refer to it as an art because it truly is a way of thinking which, with discipline and perseverance, then becomes a way of life. In a fast-paced society, accustomed to having everything we want at the click of a button, the idea of making small incremental changes can feel slow and frustrating. There must be a shortcut? How can I get this done quickly and more efficiently? What’s the secret? The truth is, there is no secret. A big stumbling block is failing to explore and understand your ‘why’. Let’s take running the marathon for example.

Ask yourself: What’s my motivation for wanting to run the marathon? What will it feel like once I’ve done it? Who am I really doing this for? Me, or other people’s perception of me? Will I be happier once it’s complete? Be curious about your true motivation for achieving your goal, and you’ll have a better shot at success. This exploratory part of the process is just as important, if not more so, than setting the actual goal itself.

Health and Beauty | STYLE

Goal: Next year I want to run the marathon

2. Find your starting point Break your goal down into small, achievable steps, as well as having milestones to reach along the way. When we set a goal for the New Year, it can sometimes feel overwhelming and daunting – and we’re left not knowing where to start. Finding your starting point is simply a case of working backwards. If the end goal is to run the marathon, ask yourself: what do you need to do before this?

What do I need to do before this? Run the marathon What do I need to do before this? Train, commit, focus What do I need to do before this? Start running What do I need to do before this? Create a training plan What do I need to do before this? Buy running trainers and any other gear needed What do I need to do before this? Confirm date to participate What do I need to do before this? Set aside time to focus on the overall goal What do I need to do before this? STARTING POINT: Find time in my diary

Once you have been through this process, you are left with your starting point. The very first thing, and only thing you have to start with, is finding some time in your diary. All of a sudden your goal feels a lot more manageable as you have small, achievable steps to work towards.

3. Enjoy the process Finally, enjoy yourself along the way! Remember your ‘why’, and what’s motivated you to set these goals. Setting your own goals and working towards them shouldn’t feel like punishment. Try and take a moment to reward yourself for each step you take that gets you closer – big or small. We’ve been through a lot over the last couple of years, the New Year is not an opportunity to add to your own restrictions and pressure.

Find something that you love, and enjoy the process of getting there.

Roz Runs the London Pa rks Ha lf Ma rathon One of the fabulous founder members of the Style of Wight team, Roz Whistance, has been putting her best foot forward to raise funds and awareness of Target Ovarian Cancer. It is a charity close to her heart as several dear friends have been affected by this disease, which can be hard to spot in its early stages. Roz first ran the London Parks Half Marathon in 2014, and has completed three more since then, with the most recent in 2021 raising £1238.50 for the charity. She is passionate about sharing the symptoms of Ovarian Cancer so more women recognise it sooner, making it easier to treat successfully. She even goes as far as wearing a shirt asking: “Need to wee more?” when she runs. Other symptoms that should not be ignored include: • Increased abdominal size or persistent bloating • Difficulty eating, and feeling full • Pelvic or abdominal pain • Unexpected weight loss • Change in bowel habits • Extreme fatigue Read more about Roz’s inspirational running challenges and Target Ovarian Cancer on our website styleofwight.co.uk

hattiema ca nd rews.com January and February 2022

STYLE | Advertisement Feature

Your winter wellbeing community is here Wellbeing – both mental and physical – is at the forefront of everyone’s minds right now, so what better time to move, nourish and breathe together this season with the Island’s leading wellness team at Balance + Glo.

How to get involved:

Here they share their self-care tips for the season:

shift stagnant energy, calm the nervous system and lower cortisol levels.

Stay connected – More than ever it feels like a time to come together. Co-founder Jenny encourages you to check-in with your friends; it could be as simple as meeting for a cuppa or moving together (virtually (via their Online Studio) or in-person (check-out their monthly wellness events)).

Who are the Balance + Glo team? The Balance + Glo team features the Island’s best yoga, pilates, and fitness teachers, plus a leading nutritionist and GP; offering a 360-degree approach to your wellbeing.

Prioritise nutrients – With the colder weather, our bodies will naturally be craving warm and comforting food. Co-founder Evelyn, recommends using up seasonal vegetables to create batches of soup, perfect for nourishing midweek lunches. Add plenty of garlic, ginger, onion and carrots to give your immune system a boost! Explore breath work – Yoga Teacher Olivia suggests trying some breathwork practices. The breath is our most transformational tool to help

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What they offer: From luxury retreats, unique wellness events, and an Online Studio, Balance + Glo has been designed to support every stage of your wellbeing journey. The Online Studio provides access to over 500 wellness classes across yoga, pilates, fitness, strength, nutrition, self-care, plus dedicated pre- and postnatal programmes. There are weekly LIVE virtual classes, their Sunday Collective Virtual Retreats and monthly challenges to get involved with!

FREE 30-DAY Trial when you join the Balance + Glo Online Studio - a whole month of self-care for FREE! You’ll get access to the on demand library, weekly live virtual classes, discounts, recipes and an awesome community. Retreat with Balance + Glo on the Island this Spring and experience the very best of island life - from SUP yoga adventures, wild sea dips, daily yoga and fitness, and food from top Island chefs, there is no doubt that you will leave feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

Joi n at ba la ncea nd g lo.com Fol low us @ba la ncea nd g lo

Health and Beauty | STYLE

The joys of pet ownership

Soothing skincare

By Sha ron a nd Dav id Groves PETS W ITH H A RT

Dermatologist-recommended range by CeraVe, now available at Gibbs & Gurnell

Whether you have – or are considering – bringing a cat, dog, guinea pig, or budgie into your home and life, the companionship a pet can bring is like no other. They do nothing but give, releasing feel-good endorphins with every cuddle. Animals love routine too, and the daily cycle of feeding, cleaning, exercise, and training is great for bringing some structure into your life. Dogs, of course, need daily exercise, which brings its own benefits for body and mind: if your dog enjoys playing with others this can be a great way to meet like-minded people, and new puppy classes are a fantastic source of friendship and fun too. For the more adventurous and active, you might even try some dog agility classes; others are simply content to quietly explore every corner of our gorgeous Island with a faithful companion by our side.

Many common skin conditions – such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and dry skin – have one thing in common: a compromised skin barrier. Developed with dermatologists, the CeraVe range offers a complete line of skincare products containing three essential ceramides to help restore the skin’s natural protective barrier. This winter, whether you need products for your sensitive, oily, acne-prone, combination or normal skin, have specific skin concerns like eczema or psoriasis, or just want a hydrating serum or anti-ageing cream, CeraVe can help.

Often bought as a ‘first pet’ for children, smaller animals – guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters and gerbils – are equally rewarding for adults. Children derive enormous benefit from the caring responsibilities, and the pleasure and sense of calm they bring is insurmountable. Whatever you decide, the benefits of a pet – be it small or large, hairy or scaly, fast or slow – are immeasurable: a friend for life. Sharon and David Groves offer advice on all aspects of pet ownership. Drop into Pets with Hart at 17 Holyrood Street, Newport for a friendly chat, or visit heartoftheisland.co.uk

Quench dry, dehydrated and irritation-prone skin with the lightweight milky CeraVe Moisturising Lotion.

A reparative hand cream for extremely dry, rough and cracked hands, for long-lasting hydration.

Gibbs & Gurnell, 34 Union Street, Ryde gibbsandgurnell.co.uk | 01983 562570 January and February 2022

STYLE | Fashion

NEW YEAR, NEW TRENDS With Visual Impact

It’s time to look ahead to the styles that will define fashion in 2022. Horizontal, vertical, thin or thick – stripes are definitely in – and watch out for a movement into genderless dressing.

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Blurring boundaries There is growing interest in genderless clothing in the fashion industry, and with jeans that are designed to be worn by anyone and everyone, Levi’s is always one step ahead.

Fashion | STYLE

Make a graphic statement We can’t remember a time when stripes weren’t in – but they are going to be as big as ever this year. Look out for the stripy collections from Great Plains and Part Two.

Something subtle Comfortable and stylish: the elegant ¾-length jumpsuit pulls in at the waist to complement any body shape.

Add a little flare Perfect for when the weather starts to warm up, we love these light trousers – best paired with something plain on top.

Chunky checks It’s not all about stripes. Follow in the footsteps of fashion icons like Harry Styles and banish notions of gender from your wardrobe with these stylish throw-over shirts.

Pretty pastels Throw a statement pastel jumper over a dull outfit for an instant pop of expression.

The not-so-basic tee You can’t go wrong with a stripy t-shirt, and we think this one has it all. In black and white, this simple but statement t-shirt looks great with an open jacket or cardi.

C o mp l e t e t h e l o o k f r o m t h e c o l l e c t i o n i n s t o r e o r o n l i n e a t : Vi s u a l I mp a c t L a d i e s we a r a n d M e n s we a r 21 H o ly r o o d S t r e e t , New p o r t | v i s u a l i mp a c t . c o . u k | @ v i s u a l i mp a c t January and February 2022

An independant womens boutique specialising in branded clothing and accessories.

stockists of SEASALT CORNWALL . MAT DE MISAINE THOUGHT . POMODORO . ROBELL

COWES

15 High Street PO31 7RZ tel 01983 290500

new wardrobe...new season...new you

ryde cowes online ryde 63 union street

63 union street

tel. 810581

123 high street

tel. 292966

www.mia-uk.com

newport 20 st. thomas square

Bridal Guide | STYLE

THE STYLE OF WIGHT

Your wedding will be the most wonderful day of your life, creating memories that will live throughout the years you spend together. Make absolutely sure that you have the most perfect Island wedding day, from your choice of rings, colours and perhaps a theme, to the style of ceremony and the most amazing reception, not forgetting the perfect photographer to record your big day for the future. For the most unique and special day making treasured memories, look no further.

SAVE THE DATE! A NEW BRIDAL SHOW FOR THE ISLE OF WIGHT SATURDAY 9TH AND SUNDAY 10TH APRIL New for the Island – a bridal show like none before – sponsored by Style of Wight in partnership with Black Swan Events and MJ Events. See our website for updates or turn to page 81

January and February 2022

From Event Styling to Full Event Management FREE initial consultation

10% OFF MJE fee!

(Quote “SOW22” for 10% Off our fees book before 01/06/2022)

tel. 07508 351910 email. infomjeiow@gmail.com www.mjeventsiow.co.uk

Gems Bridal Wear

Showcasing exclusive designer ranges and bridesmaid dresses to match your themes and choose from our bridal accessories to finish your look. Stockists of Top Designers Maggie Sottero, Romantica, True bride, and more including NEW in at Gems the MORILEE COLLECTION! Working by flexible appointment times so please enquire for a perfect time that suits you to find your dream dress.

9-13 Scarrotts Lane, Newport PO30 1JD Tel. 01983 529429 www.gemsbr i da lw ea r . c o . uk

Bridal Guide | STYLE

Celebrate your dream dress Gems Bridal Wear has been dressing Island brides for over 20 years from their bridal shop in the heart of Newport. Their friendly, professional team has helped brides find the dress of their dreams, whatever their style, shape or budget, and Gems pride themselves on their amazing customer service.

t begins with bubbly! Every consultation begins with a complimentary glass of fizz as you browse their exquisite collection of dresses. Choosing your dream dress is something to celebrate, and you and your bridal party will be the centre of attention, with Gems’ dedicated consultants devoting all their time to you. Every bride is unique and amazing, and they aim to make you feel that way - completely comfortable and confident. Gems stocks an exquisite collection of dresses from some of the best and most recognisable bridal designers in the world and have more than 100 sample dresses to try on. They are exclusive stockists of top designers such as Maggie Sottero, Romantica, Morilee, True Bride, and Sonsie, with dresses available in sizes 6 to 35. Gems also offers the highest quality accessories and shoes to finish your bridal look. Designer dresses, ordered to your size, are available in the boutique upstairs, and Gems has a wide range of off the peg dresses at amazing prices available in their downstairs show room. Gems want you to enjoy every aspect of dress shopping with them and work closely with seamstresses and local suppliers to ensure you have a seamless experience.

To book an appointment see gemsbridalwear.co.uk 9-13 Scarrots Lane, Newport PO30 1JD

January and February 2022

bespoke event services 07966 412555 info@theeventsco.co.uk www.theeventsco.co.uk

Bridal Guide | STYLE

Sensational and sustainable Karen Dornellie is bringing Island brides the option of having a much more sustainable and eco-friendly wedding dress, without compromising on style or comfort. Her beautiful new collection, inspired by the couture of the golden age of fashion, with nods to Chanel and Christian Dior, Balenciaga and Schiaperelli, can be made up by Karen from the most stunning silky fabrics that are totally eco-friendly. “Eco fabric has not been ‘pretty’ or delicate enough to make a stunning wedding gown, but fabric technology has recently achieved the impossible with silk type fabrics made from bananas, oranges, bamboo and recycled polyesters,” says Karen. “No more hemp or hessian or ‘scratchy’ materials, but materials that are beautifully fine and sheer and so much more respectful to our natural world.” Not only this, but you can design your own wedding dress and have Karen make it for you bespoke. Just make an appointment at Karen’s new showroom at Isle of Wight Pearl to discuss the ideas you have for your dress, and Karen will be able to create the dress of your dreams. But the totally unique option that Karen offers is her Artisan Collection, which gives you the option to make your own wedding dress or have someone you know, who is an excellent dressmaker, to make your gown for you, safe in the knowledge that Karen’s expertise and knowledge are behind you. Karen can provide a wedding dress pattern in your personalised size, and the

fabrics and embellishments to make your dream come true. You have the closest to couture but made at home and possibly by someone close to you emotionally or even literally geographically, rather than ordering a dress that has to be shipped from overseas. First you choose your design and then you enter your measurements so that Karen can print your pattern. You then choose your fabric samples, and once you have decided on your fabric, Karen will order the full amount so that you can begin the exciting sewing process. Karen does suggest, however, that you make a ‘Toile’ – a prototype of your dress – from a cheaper fabric first, to ensure that the fit is right, and that the finer details of the design are perfect, before making up in the real fabric. Karen and her expert pattern cutter Sue Field are available by Zoom for any questions you might have during the process. You can sign up to join ‘The Atelier’ on Karen’s website, where there are three levels of assistance depending on how much you feel you need, Silver, Gold or Platinum.

For more information or to make an appointment visit karendornellie.com January and February 2022

Bridal Guide | STYLE

B E S P O K E B R I DA L B E AU T Y... For a reliable, professional wedding beauty team look no further than La Familia Salon, in Ryde, who offer a very personal service in-salon or on location covering all your wedding beauty needs. Each bride is unique so, after a free consultation, La Familia tailors a package to suit budget, style and needs. Visuals are always the best way to realise the desired look. The salon team will work with you, determining which styles and colours bring out the best version of you, for your hair, dress style, eye colour and skin tone. Michelle can offer you a spray tan, to ensure a natural, healthy glow. Samantha specialises in up-do’s and hair styling, incorporating flowers, pearls and other accessories to give your hairstyle that extra special something.

La Familia have an experienced outof-salon team who can come to you. Whether in your house at 5am for preparations, or at your wedding venue, they will be there!

La Familia work with luxury British niche brand Delilah Cosmetics. They seek to enhance your natural beauty, which is perfect for weddings. For an alternative look, the makeup artists also bring their own makeup kits. Makeup trials are included in the bridal package and can be done at the same time as the hair trial, to get the full effect. Samantha and her team go above and beyond to provide a wonderful wedding package, tailored to the individual. Everyone in this family-run business pulls together to make you feel like family. t. 01983 568150 | lafamiliaiow.co.uk

F O R G R O O M S A N D G R O O M SM E N ... The Yarmouth Barbers and Connoisseurs offer a soothing sensual experience, with smooth jazz and the atmosphere of a gentleman’s club. Sink into the leather armchair and sample some of their delicious wines whilst you await your hair cut. For your barbering needs, fine wines and spirits, and much more, The Yarmouth Barbers and Connoisseurs, in Jireh Place, are perfectly placed to cater to all of your wedding guests, and, of course, the bridegroom. Their experienced team can style and groom the entire wedding party, from hair cutting and styling to beard care with all the accoutrements. Relax in one of their vintage leather barbers’ chairs and enjoy traditional service with contemporary style. Be pampered by their professional barbers, with freshly laundered gowns and hot towels for each customer. Their two chairs mean you can be treated in pairs – perhaps the groom and best man, bride and her maid of honour, or even the bride and groom together. Head Barber, Nick Williams,

taught hairdressing at the IW College for 25 years, so you’re in expert hands. Yarmouth Barbers and Connoisseurs also have the perfect gifts for your best man, groomsmen and ushers, with stylish cufflinks, luxury handkerchiefs, on-trend braces and speciality alcohols and chocolates. Assistant Manager, Jay, has built relationships with London’s most exclusive brands such as Ettinger and Dalaco leather goods, Lock and Co - the world’s oldest hat makers, and Emmett’s fabulous country-style shirts. The team can also supply fine wines for weddings and whiskies for a single malt bar. They have supplied cigars for a cigar bar at weddings, which would be something quite unique for your guests.

t. 01983 760350 | theyarmouthbarbersandconnoisseurs.com January and February 2022

STYLE | Bridal Guide

High-flying wedding memories Possibly one of the most unusual weddings on the Island this year was captured by photographer Megan Clarke, when Alan Forbes wed Agnes Czekanska at The Hambrough in Ventnor. By Jo Macaulay

ollecting as many airports as possible was the theme for Agnes and Alan’s wedding, as the bride and groom have gone on to travel the world, flying in and out of as many airports as they can along the way. In fact, the couple had sold up everything to go travelling, collecting airports as they go. To keep in with the theme, the bride’s dress was made from an azure blue fabric depicting a map of the world, as was the bridegroom’s shirt, which he paired with cream shorts. The couple’s wedding rings were made from a silicon rubber material, which is more sustainable than precious metals, lighter and much easier to

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wear – especially for those with an active lifestyle, flying around the world! Silicon rings are also much cheaper than traditional gold or platinum rings, leaving funds that can be put toward your honeymoon, which may have been a consideration for this globetrotting pair. Plus, they don’t set off airport security! Flying in from a mainland airport to Bembridge, the couple took a little yellow Tuk Tuk to Ventnor for photos at Ventnor Winter Gardens, before taking their places at The Hambrough to make their vows and share drinks with their nine friends and family (the wedding was held during lockdown restrictions).

The couple then got back into their Tuk Tuk to travel to Sandown Airport and posed by their plane, drinking Champagne, before taking off to a different mainland airport, thereby travelling via four different airports on their wedding day. This was the first wedding that photographer Megan worked with her new assistant Emily Brown, who took some of the pictures whilst Megan was videoing – another service that Megan offers for your big day. “This was Emily’s first wedding and she’s just amazing, an absolute godsend,” says Megan. “The couple wanted a video last-minute, and Emily took the photographs whilst I was videoing the ceremony.”

Bridal Guide | STYLE

At Sandown Airport Megan took pictures of the couple by the plane that was to take them off to the mainland minutes later. She then filmed the plane taking off into the clear blue sky, taking Agnes and Alan to more adventures around the world. Megan shot the wedding with her Canon 5D Mk3 and uses a Sony videography camera. If required, she can team up with another photographer who has a drone, although this was not required at this wedding – after all the bride and groom were in the air themselves! It was the loan of a friend’s camera, a Canon 60, that started Megan’s career in photography. “I put my pictures up on Facebook and it blew up!” she says.

“I had so many requests to take photographs, and it got so busy that it turned into a career. Four years later and this is what I do 24/7, sometimes seven days a week.”

to have some of your photos put onto stretched canvasses, which Megan can also arrange for you. You could also have an album of your photographs – just choose what you would like.

Megan has a studio in Ryde and suggests that new clients come to the studio for a coffee and a consultation, or they can arrange to do this by Zoom if preferred. She has different wedding packages, which can be tailored to suit your day.

As for Alan and Agnes, they are still travelling the world!

Photographs of your wedding are supplied on a USB stick in a personalised box, plus Megan can print you one hundred 6 x 4 images from which you can choose the ones you wish to be enlarged for framing, which she can then order. Or you might like

Contact Megan on 07477 442943 For examples of her work see facebook.com/isleclickphotography/photos instagram.com/isleclickweddings January and February 2022

STYLE | Bridal Guide

Wed in style From a business hiring out props, which they started in 2017, Carrie and Rachel Almond have become fully fledged wedding planners, stylists and event managers in their venture Wed and Prosper. They can take your wedding from inception to the big day, providing as much help as you need to ensure that your day runs smoothly.

ed and Prosper can plan everything from the design of the entire day, or just the parts which you need help with. They can also help with the final steps in the weeks before your wedding – making a timetable for your day and liaising on your behalf with all your suppliers. They can offer on-the-day co-ordination if you’ve done your own planning, to make sure that your day runs exactly how you planned and envisaged. This is especially useful for home weddings and those in marquees. Of course, they also have loads of props for all styles of weddings, from quirky signs and

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Bridal Guide | STYLE

vintage couches to rugs, candles and candelabras. They even have a roll top bath that can be filled with ice to create a ‘booze bath’ for your guests’ drinks. They have loads of archways that can be dressed by florists to be positioned at the place you take your vows and then at the reception later. Rachel can also make any props you might desire for your themed wedding, and this bespoke service is called ‘Made With Love’. She recently decorated bicycle wheels for a cycling-mad couple, for example. The sisters were busy during lockdown, as Carrie achieved diplomas in Wedding Planning and Events Management and Rachel took a diploma in Event Styling, so you’re in very well-qualified hands. Having recently been nominated for The Wedding Industry award by

clients they made it through to the regional finals in January 2022. First consultations are free and can be in person or via video call. This gives you a chance to decide what you need, and then Wed and Prosper can provide a quotation based on this discussion. Wed and Prosper did an incredible 67 weddings in 2021 and on some weekends had four weddings to arrange, so you are in very experienced hands too. “We have a Gold Book of contacts, which is available to clients,” explains Carrie. “We’re really passionate about using local suppliers when we can and there are some really good businesses on the Island which we work with. “We really want to do the very best we can for your wedding day and help bring your vision to life”

For more information and to arrange a meeting, visit wedandprosper.co.uk January and February 2022

STYLE | Bridal Guide

A C E R E M O N Y AS U N I Q U E AS YO U R LOV E ... There will be many ‘moments in time’ throughout our lives, whether it’s a wedding, civil partnership, renewing of vows, baby naming, celebration of life, memorial service, funeral, or interment of ashes. All these events are unique and personal to those involved and local Celebrant Elaine Cesar has gained a reputation for working with clients to make their wishes come true. Elaine Cesar is an Independent Celebrant (a fully qualified member of The Fellowship of Professional Celebrants), holding certificates as a Marriage and Family Celebrant, and a Funeral Celebrant. Elaine can design, and help you to create, the perfect bespoke wedding ceremony and civil partnership, that reflects both you and your partner’s personalities, and incorporates everything personal to you and your family. In her capacity as a Registrar with our local authority Elaine has officiated at over 350 wedding ceremonies and, for

the past three years, Elaine has also been the Hospitality Event Manager at Osborne House. She has unrivalled experience in event management, ensuring your day runs smoothly. Elaine also offers baby naming ceremonies, special anniversaries, renewal of vows and many other personal and milestone celebrations. As an independent Funeral Celebrant, she can help co-ordinate and deliver a personalised funeral, celebration of life memorial service, and interment of ashes, to reflect the life of your loved one in exactly the right way.

For more information and an informal chat with Elaine call 07814 120610 or 01983 866999 or visit elainecesar.com

B R E AT H TA K I N G F LO W E R S ... Every wedding is a unique event, and the family team at Bembridge Flower Shop go out of their way to personalise every mood board and quotation, so that you have exactly the flowers you want for your most special day. Ellie will devise a Pinterest mood board for you to peruse at your leisure, picking out those themes and flowers that especially appeal to you. This is a very personalised, bespoke service that is tailored to your needs, whether you already have a theme and colours chosen, or would like help with choosing your flowers and colours for your wedding day. “We make sure that we work with you personally, to make sure that you are totally happy,” says Ellie Tuffrey, who manages this small family-run florist in Bembridge. You may have seen the beautiful flower arrangement that the team have made for the lychgate at the nearby Bembridge Holy Trinity Church – a real showstopper that has cars slowing down to take a look as they pass the church. Ellie and her team can also

make spectacular floral archways for the church doorway, for a grand entrance and exit. “We do ask for a budget so that we can advise you where to put your money to make the maximum impact,” explains Ellie. “We don’t want to give you something you can’t afford, but we do want you to have the best. We want you to put your trust in us. “Mixing fresh and dried flowers is very ‘on trend’ at the moment for weddings,” according to Ellie. “Pampas grasses and bunny tails are quite popular. We’ve always been a little on the wild and unstructured side, so it works well with our style,” she adds. For wedding flowers with a wow factor, Bembridge Flower Shop has the answer, and will make sure that your wedding is like no other.

For more examples of their stunning flower arrangements see bembridgeflowershop.co.uk

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Wedding & Events

SHOW

COWES YACHT HAVEN

SATURDAY 9TH APRIL 10AM-6PM

SUNDAY 10TH APRIL 10AM-4PM

THE VERY BEST WEDDING & EVENT SUPPLIERS ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT A stunning bridal catwalk runway show Live stage performances Exclusive show offers Luxury goody bags for the first 100 couples Bar and catering VIP experiences* and competitions

blackswanevent.co.uk

FREE ENTRY

E: hannah@blackswanevent.co.uk Currently accepting exhibitor applications - to request an application form please email hannah@blackswanevent.co.uk. *VIP experience tickets £20pp - enjoy a complimentary glass of Champagne, a guaranteed goody bag & reserved front row catwalk seats (please email hannah@blackswanevent.co.uk to reserve tickets).

EVENT CATERING by

SMOKINg

LOBSTER

From weddings to festivals and everything in between. Enquiries Smoking Lobster Group now bring a comprehensive events catering offering to 2022. Menus tailored to your needs using local Island produce, reimagined events@smokinglobsterventor.co.uk through a pan asian lens. smokinglobster.co.uk

IPhotography s l e C+ Videography lick Isle Click is a fun and friendly creative female team covering both photography and videography. We are here to document every beautiful milestone of your life. From engagements to weddings, Newborns to Cake smashes, and every event in between. Megan Clarke | 07477442943 | Ryde | Isle of wight.

Bridal Guide | STYLE

P L A N N E D TO P E R F E C T I O N ... The Events Co usually meets you in the early stages of your wedding planning and stays with you throughout – or can step in during the last few weeks to make sure every detail is considered and the day itself runs smoothly. As part of their on-the-day coordination service they offer two meetings before the wedding, provision of a highly detailed itinerary, and full support for up to ten hours on the day itself. Venues to date range from a marquee in a private back garden to an ancient ruin that had to play host to a 100-person wedding breakfast. All necessary equipment to light and power your event can be supplied, installed by qualified electricians. Along with the venue, The Events Co can offer all the equipment you will require, from marquees, chairs and tables to a band and dancefloor. Their

pallet wood bar looks stunning in any setting and is assembled at your venue. They offer full staffing packages and have a fully mobile and self-contained commercial kitchen producing honest, freshly prepared food, created on-site by their chefs and served to the table or buffet-style. Or go “festival style” with a vintage-style trailer and food served in recyclable, responsibly sourced containers. The Events Co also has a micro pub and cocktail bar, ‘The Noble Steed’, in a converted horsebox – ideal for festivalstyle weddings and events.

The Events Co has offices at The Tea House in Ventnor, so drop in for a tea and a chat. Or see theeventsco.co.uk

F O O D F O R F E AST I N G ... They’ve taken the Isle of Wight by storm, first with their Smoking Lobster on Ventnor Seafront, followed by the lively Drunken Lobster in Ventnor town, and now the new Smoking Lobster in Cowes High Street. Not surprisingly, they recently won the Red Funnel Gold Award for Best Island Restaurant. But now you can indulge in their Asian fusion blend of textures and flavours at your own wedding breakfast as Smoking Lobster Events is launched this year – you heard it here! Snap them up before they’re fully booked! Smoking Lobster Events caters for all events from weddings to festivals, with a menu tailored to your needs. You could opt for a banquet menu or a buffet – all made with local fresh ingredients and seen through the Smoking Lobster’s famous pan-Asian lens.

Plus, they have a cocktail bar and topnotch mixologists to make your guests any drink they might desire – perfectly. With their executive chef Giancarlo Giancovich at the helm, plus Ben Chamberlain, formerly Head Chef of The Hut at Colwell Bay and The Royal Hotel, your wedding feast of contemporary Asian food and drinks will be just perfect, and your guests will be talking about it for… ever!

smokinglobster.co.uk January and February 2022

STYLE | Bridal Guide

ROYAL OCEAN RACING CLUB Steeped in history, the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC), Cowes Clubhouse is a magnificent building set on Castle Hill. With outstanding views of the Solent, the Clubhouse is an extremely popular venue, with members, guests and visitors from around the world. Whether you are planning a lavish party for hundreds or an intimate affair for close friends and family, the elegant architecture, stunning landscape and luxurious surroundings provide all the ingredients for your special day. At the RORC they attend to every last detail – whether it is candles, vases, mirrors, chairs or flowers – to ensure that everything is perfect. RORC’s expert team knows that the finishing touches are vital to creating the perfect ambience that will make your wedding unique. Their team of chefs uses only the finest local produce and has an extensive selection of gourmet menus and innovative ideas to impress wedding parties with their delicious delights.

The Cowes Clubhouse has twelve bedrooms; four with en-suite facilities and a further eight well-appointed bedrooms with adjacent bath or shower rooms. There is also The Disrespect, which provides selfcatering accommodation, ideally situated in the heart of Cowes, boasting beautiful views of the Solent, and just a five-minute walk from the marina and the Red Jet Terminal. RORC Cowes offers a variety of suites suitable for your wedding reception. Whether you are having a small, intimate gathering or a large party, they can cater to your requirements. If you would like private use of the whole clubhouse and facilities, they offer exclusive packages. Details are by request from the events team. RORC ask you to book appointments to meet with their events team, and they are available Monday to Friday 0900 – 1700. Your wedding co-ordinator will always be on hand to answer any questions and offer advice.

At a glance Civil ceremony license

Ceremony capacity

Sit-down reception capacity

120

Evening party capacity

200

Outdoor facilities

yes

Option of outdoor ceremony

yes

Marquee available

yes

Fireworks allowed

Parking available

Option of exclusive use

Outside caterers allowed

yes

Bridal suite available

yes

Guest accommodation

yes

Wedding coordinator

yes

Music license

yes

Option for band/DJ

yes

Dancefloor available

yes

Venue available until

midnight

Wheelchair access Royal Ocean Racing Club, The Parade, Cowes, PO31 7QU t. 01983 293581 | e. sf@rorc.org | rorc.org/clubhouses/cowes-clubhouse

styleofwight.co.uk

Vegetarian options

Price range

yes POA

Bridal Guide | STYLE

THE HAMBROUGH At a glance Civil ceremony license

yes

Ceremony capacity

Sit-down reception capacity

Evening party capacity

Outdoor facilities

yes

Option of outdoor ceremony

Marquee available

Fireworks allowed

Parking available

yes

Option of exclusive use

yes

Outside caterers allowed

Vegetarian options

yes

Bridal suite available

yes

Guest accommodation

yes

Wedding coordinator

yes

Music license

yes

Option for band/DJ

yes

Dancefloor available

yes

Venue available until

midnight

Wheelchair access Price range

no POA

A romantic wedding with far-reaching views across the sea must be the dream of so many couples and The Hambrough in Ventnor, in its clifftop location above Ventnor Bay, is the perfect venue for your ceremony and reception. Plan an intimate ceremony for up to 36 people in their glamorous, yet contemporary, restaurant, or marry in their ‘secret garden’ room, looking out over the pretty courtyard garden. With three intimate ceremony venues and light, airy and sophisticated spaces for your wedding breakfast and party, The Hambrough is a fabulous choice for a wedding with sea views. All weddings are bespoke and can be planned for you by The Hambrough’s experienced wedding planner Suzanne Wright, with as little or as much help as you would like. Exclusive use of the hotel, with its seven en-suite double bedrooms, is available whether you only book for the day, or wish to stay before and after your wedding. Further luxury selfcatering options are nearby.

Ventnor beach offers unique photo opportunities, as does the small harbour, seafront, and quirky beach huts (summer months only). Matthew Tomkinson, The Hambrough’s talented Michelin-starred chef, will create a bespoke menu using the finest local ingredients. Mixologists can create any cocktail you wish, and there is the option for live music. You might like to opt for a lunchtime or afternoon wedding breakfast with a larger party in the evening spilling out into the garden room and courtyard garden beyond. For a wedding night with views out across the crystal blue sea, The Hambrough has two balcony suites, with 180-degree views of the English Channel. These two suites would also be ideal for the bride and her bridesmaids to prepare, giving wonderful photo opportunities to show the bride and her friends getting ready for the big day. Later the bride and groom could pose for photos on the balconies, with the backdrop of sparkling blue seas.

The Hambrough, Hambrough Rd, Ventnor PO38 1SQ t. 01983 856333 | e. pondcafe@hotmail.com | thehambrough.com/weddings January and February 2022

STYLE | Bridal Guide

EAST AFTON FARM HOUSE With a history of epic celebrations, East Afton Farmhouse is the ideal setting for a country wedding, where celebrating the joining of two families can last more than just a day. Wedding packages offer various options including our special ‘allinclusive based on 100 guests’ – allowing you plenty of time to create your bespoke special day and make memories with family and friends in beautiful, relaxed surroundings. The main Farmhouse oozes character and comfortably accommodates up to 13 guests, with ample living space, private cinema room and roof terrace. The Country Annex offers accommodation for six more guests or makes the perfect retreat for the newlyweds. Close by, three event barns enclose a private stone courtyard. The barn adjoining the main farmhouse offers superb flexibility for small receptions with practical amenities including its own bar, restrooms and catering areas, underfloor heating and lighting for parties that stretch from day into night. Large bi-folding doors welcome

in light and country air to a space that comfortably accommodates 70 seated guests. East Afton’s latest addition, a beautiful large wedding and events barn with vaulted ceiling and glass windows and doors opening onto the stone courtyard, has a commercial kitchen, underfloor heating, and an 8-metrelong bar. Across the courtyard, another more rustic barn offers an alternative venue and is a favourite ceremony and party space. All three barns are licensed for ceremonies. Picturesque and peaceful, East Afton is surrounded by landscaped gardens and arable farmland. Managed and owned by the same team as Tapnell Farm, the venue also offers discounts for ferry travel and further accommodation for up to 100 people close by. Venue only, all-inclusive and midweek wedding options available. East Afton can be seen by appointment only, please contact our Wedding Coordinator.

East Afton Farmhouse, Newport Road, Freshwater, PO40 9UF t. 01983 897089 | e. michelle@tapnellfarm.com | eastaftonfarmhouse.com/weddings/

styleofwight.co.uk

At a glance Civil ceremony license

yes

Ceremony capacity

170

Sit-down reception capacity

170

Evening party capacity

250

Outdoor facilities

yes

Option of outdoor ceremony

Marquee available

Fireworks allowed

Parking available

yes

Option of exclusive use

yes

Outside caterers allowed

yes

Vegetarian options

yes

Bridal suite available

yes

Guest accommodation

yes

Wedding coordinator

yes

Music license

yes

Option for band/DJ

yes

Dancefloor available

yes

Venue available until

midnight

Wheelchair access Price range

yes £3,000 - £22,800

Bridal Guide | STYLE

SEAVIEW HOTEL At a glance Civil ceremony license

yes

Ceremony capacity

Sit-down reception capacity

Evening party capacity

Outdoor facilities

Option of outdoor ceremony

Marquee available

Fireworks allowed

Parking available

yes

Option of exclusive use

yes

Outside caterers allowed

Vegetarian options

yes

Bridal suite available

yes

Guest accommodation

yes

Wedding coordinator

yes

Music license

yes

Option for band/DJ

yes

Dancefloor available

yes

Venue available until

midnight

Wheelchair access Price range

yes

£99 to £430 (for accommodation)

The Seaview Hotel is a peaceful haven idyllically set in the picturesque sailing village of Seaview, just yards from the sea, providing a stunning backdrop for your photos. In summer, the Solent teems with pretty boats and, out of season, there’s an unspoiled singular charm to the place. Since 2018, The Restaurant holds 2 AA Rosettes for accomplished dining. Head chef, Mark Wyatt, is an advocate of modern British cuisine using local suppliers and artisan producers. The Hotel also achieved a Silver Award for its superior level of accommodation quality, as well as two Isle of Wight Chamber Awards for Business Excellence, Tourism and Green business of the year. The Seaview Hotel allows you to host your entire day in one location. Their dedicated, professional team leaves nothing to chance, ensuring a magical experience for you and your guests. There are two main areas to hold your reception, giving you the flexibility to create the wedding of your choice, and the unique location combined with superb food and great hospitality will

make your day unforgettable. The hotel organises the room layout to accommodate your number of guests, making sure each table is dressed to perfection. Perfect for dinner the night prior to your wedding, or breakfast the morning after, the hotel is a wonderful venue to kick-start your celebrations or say bon voyage to your guests after your special day. The Seaview Hotel can put you in touch with local florists for your table decorations, will take care of your reception drinks and canapés and ensure all your guests have the most suitable accommodation. Their Head Chef will work with you to create the perfect menu with carefully sourced produce and the freshest ingredients. With accommodation for up to 60 guests, they invite you to make yourself at home. They take care of everything from planning and creative design, to managing budgets, sourcing suppliers and handling pesky wedmin.

Seaview Hotel, High St, Seaview PO34 5EX t. 01983 612711 | e. manager@seaviewhotel.co.uk | seaviewhotel.co.uk January and February 2022

STYLE | Bridal Guide

BLUEBELLS

AT BRIDDLESFORD LODGE FARM

For a small- to medium-sized wedding breakfast, what could be more romantic than Bluebells at Briddlesford Lodge Farm – a working dairy farm with a picturesque award-winning herd of gentle Guernsey cows? You could even have your wedding photos taken in the fields with the Guernseys, or upon a tractor, and there are many other unusual photo opportunities, such as the small farm museum near to Bluebells or with the baby cows next door, who can be petted and fed. Receptions held during the day or at lunchtime can use the function room overlooking the farm, accommodating up to 30 people. This would be for a sit-down meal rather than a buffet. Or you might opt for an afternoon tea for your guests. Bookings for late afternoon and evening receptions can have the whole restaurant, along with the outdoor seating area under the new heated pergola, increasing guest numbers to 60. Later receptions have the option of a buffet if required, or a sit-down meal.

ingredients from the farm: milk, cream and their large range of cheeses – especially their famous halloumi – along with veal. Specialities using their own produce include house schnitzel, homemade pies, halloumi burgers and Briddlesford mess dessert. Local produce from the Tomato Stall, the Garlic Farm and abundant other Island producers are included in the dishes, and you can choose local wines and beers, too. Just call Bluebells with your ideas, as they are very flexible on menus and can offer a bespoke or set menu. Restaurant manager Jules worked as a wedding planner for ten years before joining Bluebells, so is the ideal person to help you achieve your dream wedding reception. She’s especially good with wedding décor and can dress your reception in the most beautiful style, supplying your flowers and table decorations if required. You are welcome to have live music at a late afternoon/evening reception and Bluebells do, of course, have an alcohol license along with a music license.

Of course, all Bluebells’ food includes Briddlesford Lodge Farm, Briddlesford Road, Wootton, PO33 4RY t. 01983 884650 | briddlesford.co.uk/bluebells

styleofwight.co.uk

At a glance Civil ceremony license

Ceremony capacity

n/a

Sit-down reception capacity

Evening party capacity

Outdoor facilities

n/a

Option of outdoor ceremony

n/a

Marquee available

Fireworks allowed

Parking available

yes

Option of exclusive use yes - evening Outside caterers allowed

Vegetarian options

yes

Bridal suite available

n/a

Guest accommodation

n/a

Wedding coordinator

yes

Music license

yes

Option for band/DJ

yes

Dancefloor available

yes

Venue available until

midnight

Wheelchair access Price range

yes

from £40 (venue hire)

Bridal Guide | STYLE

VENTNOR BOTANIC GARDEN Imagine your wedding in an exclusive sub-tropical garden paradise nestled beneath the balmy undercliff in Ventnor.

At a glance Civil ceremony license

yes

Ceremony capacity

300

Sit-down reception capacity

300

Evening party capacity

300

Outdoor facilities

yes

Option of outdoor ceremony

yes

Marquee available

yes

Fireworks allowed

Parking available

yes

Option of exclusive use some areas Outside caterers allowed

yes

Vegetarian options

yes

Bridal suite available

yes

Guest accommodation

yes

Wedding coordinator

yes

Music license

yes

Option for band/DJ

yes

Dancefloor available

yes

Venue available until

midnight

Wheelchair access Price range

yes £250 - £12,000+

Not only do you have the beautiful Garden, but also elegant indoor spaces with garden views. The palm garden, with its huge trees, is the ideal location for your ceremony and/or drinks reception. The Edulis restaurant, overlooking the courtyard garden and pond, is perfect for a small- to mediumsized wedding and reception, come rain or shine. Or choose a ceremony in the New Zealand Garden with a marquee for up to 200 guests, for a wedding with real wow factor. Hire the entire 22-acre garden for the weekend if you really want to push the boat out. Want to arrive in a helicopter and leave in speed boat? It’s all possible at Ventnor Botanic Garden. Ventnor Botanic Garden gives you complete flexibility over creating exactly the day that you want. As they say: “We are a venue like no other… no limitations and no boundaries… just here to make your day perfect. So let us make your dreams come true.”

From elaborate three-course menus to simple buffets or BBQs, Ventnor Botanic Garden showcases superb local produce and ingredients grown and picked freshly from the Garden. With such great fresh garden and Island produce available, from delicious Ventnor crab to ultra-fresh garden salads, you can blow everyone away with a stunning wedding menu. Their chef will help you plan your menu in the finest detail from welcome drinks and canapés to the main culinary event itself. You might want a location to get ready, to stay in the night before or even for your wedding night. Signal Point is a beautifully restored Victorian cottage nestled amongst the plants overlooking the Garden. VBG also have the one-bedroom Smugglers Lodge and three studio cabins. You won’t find a venue locally that offers quite such an original setting to create a wedding day to remember.

Ventnor Botanic Garden, Undercliff Drive, Ventnor, PO38 1UL t. 01983 855397 | botanicdreamweddings.com January and February 2022

STYLE | Feature

STAY A WHILE ON THE ISLE Amid a rediscovery of the beauty of home shores – especially those of the Island – our hospitality industry is full of energy and ready to welcome visitors and property owners alike to seize the joys and opportunities of staycationing.

Award-winning Tapnell Farm is the perfect family-friendly holiday destination for a staycation, for tourists and islanders alike. With unrivalled views coast and countryside views, Tapnell Farm is home to award-winning accommodation, attractions – including the Island’s only Aqua Park and Football Golf course – and a family (and dog) friendly restaurant, The Cow. From luxury glamping - eco pods, wood cabins, safari tents and modulogs – to geodesic domes, farm cottages and Tapnell Manor, all accommodation is created with comfort and relaxation in mind. Guests can also enjoy use of outdoor pizza ovens and fresh eggs from their free-range chickens! Tapnell has a wide range of exciting attractions. Meet farmyard friends including miniature donkeys, pigs and alpacas or head to the Wallaby Walkabout to see the friendly wallabies and cheeky meerkats. Explore the straw barn, whizz down the zip wire or get bouncy on the trampolines and giant jumping pillows! Kids of all ages love the pedal karts, mini golf and football shoot-out area. The awesome Aqua Park is the Isle of Wight’s bounciest and best attraction. It will have you splashing, sliding and laughing all the way round the 20 obstacles, with giant free-fall slides and fun elements to explore. Whatever you choose, Tapnell Farm is the Island’s perfect place to reset and rewild. Visit tapnellfarm.com

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

There are few hotels on the Island with as much heritage as the Seaview Hotel. If you’re looking for a few days away by the sea, with a distinct ocean-going theme, then this is the hotel for you. The airy front restaurant pays homage to The Aquitania – known as ‘The ship beautiful’ – featuring a dazzle camouflage wall alongside images of the jet-set. Dishes follow a Modern British style, often with an Isle of Wight twist. A chef’s favourite is the Mussel Tortellini and Lobster Bisque served with a Tarragon Cream – a taste of the Wight. In the heart of the hotel is The Pump Bar and Grill. Expect to find freshly cooked fish of the day, crispy fish and chips, beef burgers and delicious vegetarian dishes. The Seaview Hotel’s dine and stay offer is only open to Island residents during the winter months, offering a threecourse set meal with bed and breakfast for just £179pp. Add another night with breakfast for only £105pp. Relaxing and romantic walks along the beach abound, with strolls along the pebbles to Ryde or an exciting ramble along Seagrove Bay and the picturesque Priory Bay towards St Helens. Call 01983 612711 or visit seaviewhotel.co.uk

Swysh Holidays successfully offers a fully managed service to the owners of luxury selfcatering properties both on the Isle of Wight and in Sandbanks, Dorset. They are looking for more contemporary properties to join their ‘Swysh List’! Swysh has a broad portfolio of properties from flats to country houses. All are luxury stays and all complement the Sywsh List. By joining a smaller, more proactive Island-based company owners can achieve more income and a more tailored and personal approach and guests receive a more personalised service and a better holiday experience. Seagrass is an example of one of their luxury stays – a bright, spacious architect-designed family holiday home that enjoys

superb views of the English Channel from an elevated position in Ventnor. Step into the open-plan living, kitchen and dining space and you’re immediately struck by a breath-taking 180-degree sea view. There are two modern bedrooms with picture windows and two stylish bathrooms. Once outside there are three outdoor spaces to choose from; the private, seafacing, landscaped garden with BBQ patio – enclosed and safe for children and pets – a separate G&T terrace, or the decking which extends from the living room, facing south for day-long sunshine. Ideal for dog owners, families and couples! Call 07407 645317 or visit swysh.co.uk

January and February 2022

Feature | STYLE

Your property’s route to the market continues to be achieved by listing on the high-profile booking channels such as Airbnb, Booking.com, Cottages. com and Tripadvisor.co.uk, to name just a few, all of which is carefully coordinated by Matthew’s team.

Following an unprecedented level of bookings in 2021, top holiday lettings company, Island Holiday Homes, already has a high volume of ‘staycation’ bookings confirmed for 2022, and the staycation market looks set to remain healthy for the foreseeable future. “With this season’s demand, occupancy and revenue exceeding that of all previous years, the enhanced prosperity enjoyed by our client hosts has in turn increased the prosperity of Island Holiday Homes and the positioning of our business to invest further in resources to heighten service delivery of its Isle of Wight based operation both now and for the future,” says Matthew White, who runs Island Holiday Homes with Terry Payne and their experienced, friendly and approachable Island-based team of Kerry Sims, Ali Bache and Donna Allen. Island Holiday Homes, a part of Hose Rhodes Dickson Estate Agents, can provide you and your guests with the highest level of service throughout

the entire process of the booking and stay. ‘Pain points’ such as changeovers, check ins and check outs, and linen management can all be managed by Island Holiday Homes, along with cleaning and sanitising to the level required under Covid best practices. They also have an Islandbased accounts team, and a 24-hour emergency repairs call-out team. Booking management remains safe and secure via industry-leading software Supercontrol, a UK founded and based company, which continually develops its software to meet the everchanging needs of its clients and their clients’ hosts and guests.

“Marketing and presentation within a highly competitive market remains key, and well-composed photographs, together with internal video tours, aerial drone footage and inspiring descriptions of both the property and the destination are essential,” adds Matthew. In 2021 Island Holiday Homes partnered with Beyond Pricing, a yield management tool that optimises the rates for your property each night of the year, with the ultimate goal to achieve maximum annual revenue and occupancy for your holiday home. “Our goal is ‘happy guests’ and ‘happy hosts’,” says Matthew. island-holiday-homes.net

January and February 2022

STYLE | Home

Cook in colour S M E G C O O K WA R E , N O W E X C L U S I V E LY AVA I L A B L E AT H U R S T

eeling inspired by our global foodie favourites and delicious winter warmer recipes? With Smeg cookware now available exclusively at Hurst IW, why not treat your inner chef to a whole new collection of beautiful Italian-made frying pans, casserole dishes, woks and saucepans by this luxury kitchen brand. Best known for their worldfamous design-led appliances, Smeg introduces its first cookware collection designed by Raffaella Mangiarotti and Matteo Bazzicalupo. Designed for healthy and diversified cooking, the non-stick coating on each individual product makes it easy to reduce the amount of oil used in cooking. The range is dishwasher safe, multihob compatible, and oven suitable up to 250°C. Discover the full range at hurst-iw.co.uk

styleofwight.co.uk

Home | STYLE

Embrace vibrant colour and rich texture With Anne Ginger Soft Furnishings

ree your imagination and create beautiful, layered rooms with these new GP & J Baker collections, available at Anne Ginger Soft Furnishings. Explore an exuberant range of unique fabrics that combine antique inspired textiles, vibrant colour and pattern, vintage finds and treasured heirlooms. From intricately drawn botanicals to charming scenic designs from across the globe, each is infused with character and perfect for creating a home filled with personality and print. Anne Ginger Soft Furnishings are passionate about creating beautiful interiors. To make your dream home come true, call 01983 407730 or email info@anneginger.co.uk

Ramanaya Velvet: we just adore this elegant ode to the traditional designs of this exciting and colourful continent

This striking print incorporates Ikat, Suzani and medallion motifs in a bold and handsome design perfect for statement curtains or upholstery

Shalimar fabric, featuring an exotic court scene, elephants bedecked with jewels, drum playing musicians and the finest stallions in an exotic, Mughal garden

January and February 2022

B A Y L I S S

B O O T H

MID-CENTURY SCANDI FRENCH CHATEAU VINTAGE FINDS INSPIRATION 01983 528600 @baylissandbooth

B AY L I S S A N D B O O T H . C O . U K

LUSHINGTON HILL

WOOTTON

PO33 4RD

Premium decorator and leading installer of wall coverings from source to completion Premium painting and decorating Wallpaper installations Mural andTel: feature wall 951145 installations 07812 HVLP Airless Spraying www.paulwaldeninteriors.com Commercial wallcovering installations Furniture upcycling T: 07812 951145 E: paul@paulwaldeninteriors.com www.paulwaldeninteriors.com

Home | STYLE

Ski

at home

With Bayliss & Booth Not hitting the slopes this year? Fear not – Bayliss & Booth have every thing you need to recreate your ow n cha let ex perience at home (minus the snow of course)

Feeling fresh Start the year with a new piece of statement art: we adore these evocative snow-capped peaks. This 2.5-metre-long oak framed print will take you straight to the Alps, £695.

Fondue frenzy Melt your travel blues away with a cosy night in for two – the perfect romantic candlelit evening for sweet and savoury lovers alike.

Fabulous faux fur Bayliss & Booth have a sumptuous selection of faux fur accessories for wintering at home, guilt-free. Snuggle up and settle in with this comforting hot water bottle cover (£32.50) and eye mask (£16.50) in dreamiest dusky pink.

Small but perfectly formed for delicious chocolate fondue in just three minutes, £21.99. A single tealight is all that’s needed for these individual table-top raclette heaters, £24.99.

All items available from Bayliss & Booth, Lushington Hill, Wootton | baylissandbooth.com | Instagram @baylissandbooth | 01983 528600 January and February 2022

We are a bespoke picture framers and create frames for the following; • • • •

oil paintings, acrylics, pastels and watercolours prints, photographs, papyrus and certificates cross-stitches, embroideries, batik prints, shirts, silks and ensigns medals, cigarette cards and canvas prints

We’ve had the privilege of framing a wide variety of memorabilia including a pair of football goalie gloves, a set of nails, a collection of tube maps spanning 50 years and some vinyl LP’s.

109 High Street, Cowes 07368 841308

Home | STYLE

Find balance

With Acacia Bay

Bring harmony to your home w ith a delicate ba lance between ca lm and energ y

nspired by nature, the Pomax interiors range at Acacia Bay has been curated to help you achieve just that. If it’s energy your room needs, select accessories with bright colours or unusual textures. To dial up the calm, consider adding simpler, more neutral tones and patterns. What better place to combine different elements than the dining table? For many, the table represents the heart of the home. With bold textiles, refined glassware and stylish porcelain crockery, do your food justice by selecting simple yet stunning plates and bowls, and add

novelty with a select few artistic pieces. Fuel your creativity with the freedom to mix and match products to your heart’s content in the process of finding what works best for your space – and for you. In perfect alignment with Acacia Bay’s range of unusual interiors influenced by nature and designed to make your house a home, the Pomax collection is built on one-of-a-kind products created with passion and care. From furniture and textiles to decorative accessories, the vision of your perfectly balanced home won’t stop at the dining table.

Discover more at acaciabayiow.co.uk | Instagram: @acaciabayiow Above: The Hopper range, made of solid acacia wood, combines quality with warmth and elegance. From top: Light, strong and simply stunning, the porcelain tableware is made with thin China clay. The soft, comfortable Kreta and Nataraj throws are made by real people, with the environment in mind.

January and February 2022

DIG FOR VINTAGE

New Year, Fresh start, Vintage style!

Anne Ginger soft furnishings

With 40 years experience Anne Ginger and her dedicated team are happy to assist in making the right choice of soft furnishings for you, from helping you choose the perfect product through to installation. Our service is based around giving excellent advice combined with quality products. Come and see us and turn your dream into reality. Offering monthly painting technique Vintage lifestyle through workshops. Find out more in-store the decades, fashion, iconic DIG F ORV I N TAG E .Facebook C O.page. UK and on our furniture, fabrics, The ceramics, Colonnade, Lind Street, artRyde, and classic Book a719433 painting Isle of books. Wight, PO33 2NE Tel. 01983 Everything you need to create a gorgeous vintage look for your home. The Colonnade Ryde PO33 2NE

experience with us today!

T 01983 719433 E info@digforvintage.co.uk

Due to Covid-19 the showroom is operating Monday-Friday on an appointment service so please call to book. info@anneginger.co.uk www.anneginger.co.uk

tel. 01983 407730

Home | STYLE

Abbotts Flooring are proud to be exclusive Island stock ists for Project Floors: a lu x ury range of phtha lates-free v inyl ti les k now n for their timeless desig ns and durable German manufacturing. Perfect for any room, and prov iding an authenticlook ing a lternative to rea l wood, stone, slate or ceramic, here are two of our favourite geometric patterns from this classic European col lection.

Chevron

ANCIENT DESIGNS FOR MODERN HOMES

This impressive ‘v’ shaped floor pattern – believed to originate in Ancient Greece – can be found on uniforms worn by police officers and is commonly used in interior design and heraldry. Chevron flooring gives an illusion of width and length, and is a perfect option for smaller spaces.

with Abbotts Flooring

Herringbone Early examples of herringbone design can be seen in the intricate jewellery of the Ancient Egyptian elite and in fabric originating in Ancient Italy. Named after its resemblance to the skeleton of a herring fish, the herringbone pattern consists of an arrangement of rectangles in a repetitive pattern which brings a sense of sophistication to any space. For more information about the Project Floors range, visit the Abbotts Flooring showroom by calling 01983 217883 or emailing info@abbottsflooring.com January and February 2022

101

BRINGING SKATEBOARDING TO EVERYONE

@canopyskatepark www.canopyskatepark.com

The Isle of Wight's bookshop on The Green. Here for the love of reading for over 35 years.

NEWLANDS HOUSE LOWER GREEN ROAD ST HELENS, RYDE ISLE OF WIGHT, PO33 1TS

thegoosebooks.com | @thegoosebooks

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Plant a tree for Queen a nd climate w ith ERMC In Aug ust 2020, at a time when business was not quite as usua l, ERMC took a leap to start a new business offer, one that wou ld complete the circu larity of their commitment to k nowledge and delivery of sustainable, construction professiona l ser v ices.

aving secured grant funding from the IW Rural Fund, they embarked upon creating a Rangers team, kitting them out, and undertaking specialist training, with the goal of delivering ecological land management and enhancement. With biodiversity improvement and rewilding at the core of the service, the now four-strong team can be found across the Island and the south coast, maintaining and enhancing the shared spaces on managed estates and providing contract services with an ecological and contemporary approach. When the Queen announced the ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’ campaign, an idea was sparked that is now taking root, and the Rangers set up a bespoke tree planting service in support of the cause. ‘Plant with Us’ helps local landowners, businesses and individuals to source and plant a collection of trees (UK grown from UK seed) and take the guesswork out of what to buy, where to plant and how to plant, so the trees – which have been specially selected for their carbon absorbing qualities – make an instant impact and thrive. The trees are available with plaques to commemorate the occasion and can also be tagged on a map on HRH’s very own website. Tree planting season is now upon us and ends in March, so if you have some space that could do with a leafy facelift – support the campaign and do your bit towards carbon capture at the same time.

ERMC provides Quantity Surveying, Project Management, Architectural and Estate Management services. Visit ermc.co.uk for more information January and February 2022

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Breakwaters

PHASE TWO - NOW RELEASED CULVER PARADE, SANDOWN, PO36 8AT

Breakwaters is an exciting brand new development situated on Sandown Seafront. Phase One is fully reserved with Phase Two available to be reserved now. The development consists of luxury apartments, duplexes, penthouses and townhouses. Every property will be finished to a high standard and will comprise at least 2 bedrooms with either a balcony or terrace, benefitting from sea or country views.

Reservations being taken NOW! Please note the CGI will differ slightly

1ST YEAR SERVICE CHARGE FREE

For more information, please contact the Shanklin office on:

T: 01983 866000 or email: shanklin@hrdiw.co.uk

GreenMeadows Independent Island Living

CT (IOW) LTD

BRAND NEW EXTRA CARE DEVELOPMENT

All residents can be supported by the Wellbeing Team who are there to help everyone feel settled, supported and safe; this unique Wellbeing service can respond to your needs 24hrs a day on an unplanned care basis, enabling you to live independently in your own home. To feel part of a community, there is access to facilities such as:

• Minibus outings • Scheme shop • Hairdressers

, OVER 55 EW BRAND N E AR EXTRA C SHARED HIP OWNERS S ENT APARTM

• Activities and Lunch club • Mobility scooter store with charging points • Communal lounge • Laundry room • Dining room All apartments are built and equipped with emergency pull cords which connects you to 24 hours a day staff on site who can respond in a serious emergency for your peace of mind.

In Partnership with

RESERVATIONS BEING TAKEN NOW COLWELL ROAD WEST WIGHT

For more information regarding older persons shared ownership please phone:

0808 1699788 or email newhomes@hrdiw.co.uk

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Become part of the community of

BLANCHARD FIELDS Enjoy complete peace of mind when you purchase a brand-new home in rural Brighstone. All the beauty of coast and countryside is on your doorstep and you’ll immediately feel at home in a property perfectly finished to your requirements.

lanchard Fields is a brandnew development in the picturesque village of Brighstone, Isle of Wight. The development is located in the heart of the village and is close to transport links with a short walk to the local shops, church, pubs, doctors’ surgery and primary school. The parish lies within an area of outstanding natural beauty and its coastline is designated as heritage coast and a site of scientific interest. This development is being built by a respected local builder and we currently have Phase 1 and 2 released comprising a mixture of housing including Over 55s Housing and Open Market Properties. The project is progressing well, this can be seen on the site with properties within the first phase of the build having their footings in and some already have the frame up with the roof starting to be put on. Several properties are currently available for those aged over 55, including a mixture of detached 2-bedroom bungalows, semi-detached 2-bedroom chalet bungalows and end of terrace and mid terrace 2-bedroom houses. Currently over 65% of the properties on the site are reserved with enquiries frequently being received by our New Homes Department. Properties within Phase 1 and 2 are for sale on a freehold basis and will be subject to an estate charge which covers the upkeep of the communal areas including the spacious meadow area located centrally within the development.

Sympathetic layout and intelligent land use ensures Blanchard Fields complements its village surroundings

The property interiors will be finished to a high standard throughout. As purchasers you will have the opportunity to choose flooring, tile, worktop and kitchen cabinet options from a selected range. The kitchens will benefit from integrated appliances including hob, oven, microwave, dishwasher, washer dryer, fridge/freezer and sink unit. These new-build properties offer simplicity and security. You can enjoy moving in following completion with no worry about having to redecorate and the 10-year LABC Warranty gives you extra peace of mind. All properties have parking and private gardens which will have a patio area as well as a turfed lawn with stock fencing and hedging surround to ensure privacy.

These stylishly designed country homes have abundant kerb appeal

The variety of property styles adds to the community feel and will attract a range of discerning buyers

For further information or to view the site an appointment can be booked by calling Hose Rhodes Dickson New Homes Department on 01983 538080 or email newhomes@hrdiw.co.uk and one of the team will contact you.

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STYLE | Property

HOMES TO INSPIRE From Victorian character to modern minimalism, everybody’s idea of the perfect home is different. But we can’t imagine a better place to be house hunting; there really is something to suit every taste on our Island. Our three beautiful property choices this issue take us from a Georgian townhouse in Cowes to an historic Gatekeeper’s lodge in Whippingham and, finally, to a high-spec, modern, home adjacent to the beginning of the famous Tennyson Trail. By Jen Parker

Our journey begins in the heart of Cowes. As we walk along Bath Road towards the Solent, we stop at the royal blue door of Pelham House, complete with a vintage lion’s head doorknocker, and step beyond the arched doorway into the elegant Grade II listed home. Georgian style has been retained throughout the property and is evident from our first steps into the boldly tiled lobby. To the right of the hallway sits a rented shop space, with windows looking onto the street and, further along, we reach the dining room with double doors out to the secluded courtyard garden. The kitchen (complete with an aga) and bright breakfast room occupy the rear, while an original staircase takes us to the first and second floors, which house three comfortable double bedrooms (one of which has a stunning curved bay window) as well as a beautiful sitting room with an original fireplace. From the top floor bedroom, we watch boats bob on the Solent above the rooftops. Just a moment from the parade and harbour and a short stroll from the town centre, this charming home couldn’t be better placed for Cowes life. Viewings with Waterside Properties, on 01983 300111. Visit watersideisleofwight.com

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Property | STYLE

For our next stop, we journey east around the coast until we reach Kings Quay – a former Gatekeeper’s lodge surrounded by nature and overlooking the picturesque Palmer’s Brook. Built in 1862 as part of the Barton Manor Estate, the property is set amidst an expanse of woodland and is brimming with character. If it’s a home with history you’re searching for, look no further: the lodge was purchased by Queen Victoria in 1867 before being extended for her personal use. Walking around on the oak flooring throughout the ground level, we notice décor fit for a queen; with beautiful sash windows and decorative plastered ceilings, lots of original features remain, bringing historic character to every room. Queen Victoria’s private study is complete with a large, picture bay window with far-reaching Solent and countryside views. From the bedrooms upstairs and the conservatory on the ground floor, the views are simply unbeatable. Viewings with Hose Rhodes Dickson – The Collection, on 01983 538090

Taking a swift leap into the 21st Century, we arrive at One Tennyson: a modern home that couldn’t be more of a stark contrast to Queen Victoria’s lodge. Through the tiled entrance space - with full height windows overlooking the garden - we reach an impressive, vast living area. We love the high-spec touches that have been integrated into the design to ensure energy efficiency – including a heat recovery system that maintains the perfect temperature with solar panels helping to heat the water throughout the year. With open plan living and a wrap-

around patio – and even a cinema room – the main house would be perfect for those who love to entertain. I say ‘main house’ because the current owners have divided the property to provide holiday rental income from a penthouse apartment and a garage that has been converted into a cosy modern bungalow. Ideally situated for a jaunt along the stunning Tennyson Trail, the house is in a prime location, just a short drive from the shops and eateries in Newport. Viewings with Spence Willard, on 01983 200880 Email hello@spencewillard.co.uk January and February 2022

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Harbour Lodge, Sandbanks, Dorset

The J House, Cowes, IOW

Join the new collection of hand-picked luxury holiday homes and experience a more personal property management service.

Salterns No.1, Yarmouth, IOW

The Hermitage, Ventnor, IOW

swysh.co.uk

Glittering party Black Swan Events hosted a glittering Christmas Party in aid of Dementia UK Admiral Nurses IW at Albert Cottage Hotel

uests gathered in the hotel’s comfortable bar, before taking their seats in the outdoor marquee. Hannah Wilson from Black Swan Events thanked everyone for coming and introduced Lady Grylls, who gave a short speech about Dementia UK, especially her hopes that an Island business might fund the salary for another Admiral Nurse. Lady Grylls was accompanied by her two grandsons, Jesse Grylls, son of Bear, and Bevan Fawcett, son of Lara, who had travelled down to the Island especially for the evening. Other guests included Imogen Baden Powell, greatniece of Robert Baden Powell, and

former Lord Lieutenant Christopher Bland and his wife Judith. Quaynote Barbershop Quartet sang Christmas songs and a sung version of the Lord’s Prayer, before diners tucked into their three course Christmas-themed meals. Guests were entertained at their tables by talented magician Aaron Isted. Prizes in the grand raffle that followed the dinner included vintage glass candlesticks donated by Acacia Bay in Shanklin and a hamper from Island Roasted and Wight Label Tea. The total raised for Dementia UK by the evening was £781.01.

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STYLE | Advertisement Feature

45 YEARS OF KINDNESS Many people are unaware that hospice care was available to Islanders before Mountbatten Hospice was built hospice care for the city and its surrounding areas. “Our innovation and expertise led us to starting the partnership and the Island should be very proud of our model of hospice care, and the reputation we hold as an outstanding care provider. “The relationship we have with our community is at the heart of all of it. “We want to use this anniversary to continue telling our hospice story on the Island, as we find new ways of reaching and supporting people who need us here.”

hen Southampton’s Countess Mountbatten Hospice opened in 1977, it was to support people living in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Today, it works in partnership with Mountbatten Isle of Wight, sharing expertise and best practice, though the two hospices are independent and run separately, supported by the respective communities they serve.

At the time, it was only the second hospice of its kind in the UK, and the Island played a key role in its creation, with reference to ‘the efforts and contributions of the people of south Hampshire and the Isle of Wight’ still acknowledged on a wall-mounted plaque in the hospice entrance.

The two organisations will team up in 2022 to mark a special year for Mountbatten, celebrating 45 years of hospice care for the Isle of Wight.

Forty-five years on and Countess Mountbatten, now known as Mountbatten Hampshire, retains a link to the Island.

“When Countess Mountbatten hospice opened in 1977, it was the start of the hospice story on the Island,” said Nigel Hartley, Mountbatten CEO. “It is extraordinary in many ways, that 45 years after Southampton opened a hospice for Islanders, we now work closely to enhance and develop

www.mountbatten.org.uk

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Events will be held across the year, including a torch-bearing run between the Isle of Wight and Hampshire hospices, a special regatta in Cowes and a party at Mountbatten, which will be open to every member of our Island community. Gala dinners and a carol service at Newport Minster are also planned. A 45th anniversary logo has been specially designed to commemorate the occasion focussing on ’45 years of kindness’ and will be used during the anniversary year.

Business | STYLE

T H E LO N E L I N E SS E P I D E M I C By Ha n na h Lisseter DI RECTOR , GL A N V I L L ES DA M A N T

older people including a telephone and face-to-face befriending service, social activities, transport and IT training.

The last two years have highlighted the issue of loneliness. It is estimated that there are around nine million lonely people in the UK and four million of those are older people. There are serious health implications of this epidemic; loneliness is likely to increase your risk of death by 26% and puts us at greater risk of dementia. Around half a million older people go at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone and nearly half of adults in England feel lonely sometimes or often. Women reported feeing lonely more frequently than men and nearly half of those with poorer health or disability are often or always lonely. There can be many

Sometimes legal support is needed, and I regularly visit people in their own homes to support them. If loneliness is impacting on your health then you should seek medical advice and support. reasons for loneliness including a lack of a support network, relationship breakdown and bereavement.

A kind word and a smile can go a long way to brighten up a lonely person’s day.

So, what can we do about it? There are lots of ways to combat loneliness and the first step is to recognise it and to talk about it. Local organisations, such as Age UK, offer support for

Hannah Lisseter is a Director specialising in Wills, Probate, Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection matters. Email: hannah.lisseter@gdlegalservices.co.uk Tel: 01983 527878.

To s p e a k t o o n e o f o u r e x p e r t s p l e a s e c a l l u s o n 0 1 9 8 3 5 2 7 8 7 8

Island knowledge, national expertise At Glanvilles Damant, we are committed to achieving the highest standards and the best results for our clients. We pride ourselves on putting the needs of our clients at the heart of

The Courtyard, St Cross Business Park Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5BF

t: 01983 527878 f: 01983 821629

DX 56352 Newport IW e: hello@gdlegalservices.co.uk

www.gdlegalservices.co.uk

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Business | STYLE

F I N D YO U R S W E E T S P OT By Da le Howa r t h BUSI N ESS M EN TOR , SPEA K ER A N D CPD TR A I N ER

and services you offer? Then (importantly) match these up with market potential as, whilst you may have a favourite product or service, if it has limited potential it may not be something to build your whole growth strategy around. Identify your core competencies. Your business was most likely founded on these. Revisit them, establish if they are still relevant and identify how you can cultivate them to make them even more relevant today. It’s not uncommon to lose sight of these core competencies as a business grows. It can often simply be a case of doing old things in new ways, to renew them or make them even more relevant to leverage growth. Listen to your customers. Especially those that are profitable promoters of your products and services. What is it that they rave about when it comes to your business? Also, listen to those who praise your business on social media, through word of mouth and at networking events. The chances are that these ‘shout-outs’ may lie at the heart of your sweet spot.

Photograph courtesy of Zoe Reeve

ennis players know the importance of finding the sweet spot, a place on their racket where a combination of factors ensures the maximum speed of the ball for the effort expended. Yet it is surprising that few in business take the time to understand or capitalise on their company’s sweet spot. The point where the optimal balance across a number of key factors leads to the best overall results for you, your customers and the business. Unfortunately, many in business find it hard to identify their sweet spot. If you haven’t found yours, now is a great time to start looking. Here are some tips to get started: Start with the question ‘what’s going right?’ Rather than obsessing over what has gone wrong. Focus on what works well and produces above-average results for you. What are the common themes and most profitable products

What are you passionate about? If you’re simply in it for the money, it’s not going to satisfy you and you will get bored. If you have passion and talent but no money, you have no more than a hobby. If you have passion and money but no talent, you tend to fail. Whether you realise it or not passion will, and should, feature somewhere in your sweet spot. If you’re passionate about something it tends to come easier, you put in more effort and go the extra mile to ensure it is right and your business becomes the vehicle for the work you are motivated by passion to do. Finding your sweet spot will enable you to play to your strengths but should not be confused with finding a niche. A niche is based on external factors, such as identifying a requirement in the market or a problem needing a solution. Whereas your sweet spot is based on internal factors of building on strengths, competencies and passion. Great companies know their ‘sweet spot’.

Dale Howarth is a Business Mentor, CPD Speaker and Accredited CPD Training Provider. Working with individuals and companies to make the business leaders and businesses successes of tomorrow. To find out more visit www.dalehowarth.com. January and February 2022

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Style speaks to children’s illustrator

A xel Scheff ler On the moral in the message… I like the way Julia Donaldson’s texts are always very subtle with their messages. They are always well wrapped in an enjoyable tale. They are often based on existing stories, so many themes are universal and timeless. I do think many stories have a message of solidarity and friendship – that we have to help each other when in trouble. I think the message of The Smeds and The Smoos is to accept and love the “alien”, the foreigner, who is different from our own group (and of course not really!) is very fitting in these times of division and growing xenophobia.

On the deep dark woods of the Isle of Wight… Although I’ve been to the Isle of Wight a number of times for short holidays I have yet to explore Firestone Copse – who knows what I might encounter there! On bringing The Gruffalo to life… It makes me feel a little dizzy when I think of the worldwide impact of the book we have created. It does really seem to appeal to children all over the world in spite of the very European wood, which I would draw a little darker and deeper and scarier if I had the chance. The variation of the David and Goliath theme, with a more benign ending, seems to be a universal tale that works across many cultures. The reading of picture books by parents to their children is such an intimate and important moment for families, and I feel both very proud, and humbled, to have provided such a popular book for this moment. On (or, rather, against) tribalism... The story of The Smeds and the Smoos is inspired by a Romeo-andJuliet-like situation – two alien tribes, not thinking much of each other and full of prejudice. I worked on it at the time of the EU referendum and it seemed very topical in a time of division in this country, as well as the underlying xenophobia of the whole

Photo credit Liam Jackson

Brexiteer faction. I was, and still am, very sad about the decision of large parts of British society to vote for Brexit. As a migrant myself who came here because the EU guaranteed me to live and work in any EU country, I felt as if somebody was pulling the carpet from underneath my feet and that, in spite of my contribution to British children’s books, I didn’t feel as if I’m welcome anymore. My dedication “to the children of Europe” was really a hint at the Brexit situation with hope that other times will come, when friendship and cooperation are restored. It should really be dedicated, like all our books, to the children of the world. On green stew or pink milk… As a German, I am of course, a brown bread person.

Illustrations from The Smeds and the Smoos © Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler, 2019 (Alison Green Books, an imprint of Scholastic).

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On advice for budding illustrators… Although the illustrators and young artists on the Isle of Wight live in an especially beautiful part of the country – so I hope the nature around them could inspire their art – my advice wouldn’t be that different to artists elsewhere, and it’s not very original. Be curious about art, look at books and go to museums. For me it was also important to take note of the reaction of other people to my drawings: even if I thought something was not very good, other people liked it and that is very useful when you want to earn a living with art.

See Axel Scheffler at the Isle of Wight Story Festival, on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th February at Quay Arts. Follow @iwstoryfestival for updates.

Charnwood Island III

Extraordinary stoves. Made on the Isle of Wight, sold worldwide. 01983 537780 • @charnwoodstoves • www.charnwood.com

charnwood

Style of Wight Issue 74 January/February 2022

Articles inside

The loneliness epidemic: with

Style speaks: to children’s illustrator Axel Scheffler

Property: homes to inspire

Find your sweet spot

People with style: Cris Arago Pedley

Find balance: with Acacia Bay

The bridal guide: design your

Ancient designs for modern homes

Ski at home: with Bayliss & Booth

Cook in colour: with Hurst

Stay a while on the Isle: rediscover

New Year, New Trends

Your winter wellbeing community

Small changes, big steps

Pause and be grateful

Feeling good

Global food inspiration: a world

Chana masala: by Richard Sayce

Roasted savoy cabbage

Chicken madras: by Richard Sayce

The Ocean Hotel: and the Polish entrepreneur who built it

Children’s Writing Competition

Style spectrum: Dan Locke

Style picks: welcome tranquility with a selection of lovely products from Island businesses

Lead interview: Keeping the home fires burning with AJ Wells

Style scoop: our seasonal roundup of places to go, people to meet, and things to know

Human race rosettes

Meet the maker: bridal designer Karen Dornellie

Mindful photography: with closeup