B E A U T I F U L LY CHAMPIONING
British
BRANDS
HOME COMFORTS
Beat the winter blues by refreshing your home with cosiness, humour and colour!
CHRISTMAS AT HOME
Head to toe
Wrap up warm with beautiful winter essentials
A CUR ATED LOOK AT E V E RY T H I NG BRI T IS H W W W. B E A U T I F U L LY B R I T I S H M A G . C O . U K
ISSUE 7 – DECEMBER 2020
IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS!
During lockdown, UK studies have uncovered that 43% of consumers believe that local businesses are good for the economy, while 57% of people said that, once restrictions are lifted, they’d be more likely to spend money at a business that offers locally produced products than they would have done before. We say why not start now and consider buying your Christmas presents from a small British business? Since starting Beautifully British magazine, we haven’t stopped being surprised at what is actually made here on our own shores – it’s just knowing where to go for what you need. and that’s where hopefully we can help! There’s still time to buy British for presents and other festive essentials! Whether Christmas brings an intimate dinner for two or family celebration – we share six festive foods for your celebrations! We certainly all deserve a little something special this Christmas, so we share some quirky festive essentials sure to put a smile on your family’s faces, as well as some last minute stocking fillers! And when the festivities are all over – we turn our attentions to beating the winter blues with things to brighten up you home from colourful lamps to fun dining. Why not treat your feet to some indulgent treatments with our Happy Feet feature, or make sure you’re on top with the best British made shirts and blouses for your next video call! And finally, meet some of the wonderful makers! We talk to Jordan Kirby from Past Vintage, a brand that celebrates the true heritage of British manufacturing in its leather briefcases. Lee Sheppard from Newey & Bloomer explains why their copper kettles are still made the traditional way.
Thanks to Dobbies Garden Centres for our lovely front cover pic, which features the Christmas wreath project. www.dobbies.com
Have a safe and merry Christmas, and the best of British!
Julie and Em
We love
Julie and Emily Bonnar Editors, Beautifully British www.beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
Smarter moisturising So we have to admit we’re sceptical about oils as they can leave you feeling heavy and greasy. But we have just found this lightweight formula that gives your skin all the hydrating it needs but without feeling greasy. The Elixir soaks straight into your skin almost instantly, leaving you glowing but with a matte finish. TOP TIP: A little goes a long way! The elixir is packed with 12 oils to quench the skin’s thirst for hydration and nourishment, minimise the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and improve skin’s elasticity plus to replenish the skin’s moisture and restore a buoyant glow. Why not give it a go!
£32|Multi V Elixir www.mysmartskin.co.uk
KEEP IN THE LOOP Email: hello@beautifullybritishmag.co.uk Twitter: @BBritishmag Facebook: @BeautifullyBritishmag
Instagram: @beautifullybritishmagazine
For advertising opportunities: jo@beautifullybritishmag.co.uk Produced by Swatch Media Limited
34
Contents REGULARS
On our radar Things we thought you might like to know…
6
22 Editor’s picks Exciting British products that we love and think you will too We heart LEATHER A leather accessory can last you a lifetime
39 17
39
FOOD & DRINK Blackberry & Jazz apple eve cake Eve cake is a British classic, and a deliciously comforting winter favourite!
9
24 Food glorious food Whether this year brings an intimate dinner for two or family celebration – here are six festive foods for your celebrations!
22
27 10 mins with Emma Dodi talks to us about her amazing bespoke cakes LIFESTYLE Christmas at home We share some quirky festive essentials sure to put a smile on your family’s faces
17
Stocking fillers 20 Fill those stockings with last minute gifts from British makers
20
HOME
14 27
7
Home comforts Beat the winter blues by refreshing your home with cosiness, humour and colour!
28
The original British manufacturer of the Simplex kettle Lee Sheppard, Director of Newey & Bloomer talks about this company’s copper kitchen essential
31
HEALTH & BEAUTY Happy feet 37 Look after your family’s feet with gorgeous foot care treatments
FASHION The other half 10 Shirts and blouses - what will you be wearing on top for your next video call?
24
10
Meet the Maker - Past Vintage We chat with Jordan Kirby, the founder behind the brand that celebrates the true heritage of British leather manufacturing
14
Head to toe Wrap up warm with these beautiful winter essentials
34
CELEBRATING HANDMADE Hello Christmas! Create a one-of-a-kind wreath to hang on your front door to welcome visitors!
13
Regulars
Radar ON OUR
Things we thought you might like to know…
INVESTING IN TOMORROW
Previously Lee Klabin’s designs have been worn by Sarah Jessica Parker, Lady Gaga, Lily Cole, Dita Von Teese and Kylie Jenner. She featured in British Vogue and was lauded by the fashion press as the ‘Couture Corset Queen’! Lee then took a nourishing sabbatical to have a family. This autumn saw her unveil the first pieces from her luxurious women’s ready-to-wear cashmere collection. This range champions 100% sustainability, uncompromising beauty, and femininity. It’s limited to just a few garments at a time and celebrates the creativity of UK based artisans. The cashmere is ethically sourced from Scotland and knitted in London, and this approach will help reduce its carbon footprint and boost the British economy. These trend-proof designs are very comfortable to wear and will become a reliable ‘go-to’ garment in your wardrobe. “From high-heels to trainers, these dresses are designed to go with it all. And that’s a true sign of a sustainable garment,” comments Lee. To find our more about this new collection, visit www.leeklabin.com
6.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
LUXURY & COMFORT
Ava Innes is the new Scottish brand, based in Elgin, with a passion for sleep, cashmere and sustainability, offering cashmere duvets, natural British wool pillows as well as cashmere accessories and gifts, all made in the UK. Naturally weighted, its duvets offer the perfect balance of warmth, weight and breathability, helping you to achieve a great sleep night after night. The first-to-market duvets are unique, filled with a dream blend of cashmere guard hair (considered a by-product of the luxury cashmere industry) with a touch of British wool, encased in organic cotton and made in Yorkshire. Customers say they are sleeping better under the duvets and pillows with comments including “best night’s sleep for years!” and “I felt cocooned and in heaven”. Ava Innes has been selected as the bedding brand of choice by Menopause Matters due to the temperature regulating nature of the duvets and pillows. In addition, Ava Innes has been shortlisted for the prestigious International Architecture and Design Awards 2020. Its unique and patent pending duvets not only benefit your sleep but are also kind to the planet around us. Unlike other duvets, after years of use, the Ava Innes duvet is fully compostable. How wonderful is that! To view more from Ava Innes, visit www.avainnes.com
BRIGHTEN UP YOUR FOUR WALLS Regulars Based in Wokingham, professional artist and designer Jayne Leighton Herd and her husband Laurent Stadelmann have launched Claude & Leighton an online destination for high-quality, contemporary art prints, posters and wall decor. They aim to lift our mood in these very difficult times,as we spend more time than ever within the walls of our homes. Laurent and Jayne want to help to personalise those walls with fantastic British designed and produced art and bring a smile of delight, a grin of humour, a wow moment! Claude & Leighton offer prints in a variety of genres, from abstracts and landscapes, to portraits and animal art, to fine art photography and typography. All art prints and posters are created and printed to the highest quality from their Berkshire print studio, and carefully packed in gift-ready, British-made recyclable packaging. To explore more art prints, posters and wall décor, visit www.claudeandleighton.com
FEEL GOOD, DO GOOD
Ubiety means being grounded in the moment, and Ubeity products are designed to deliver just that! Each product promotes wellbeing and mindfulness through calming and empowering formulations inspired by the wild woodlands and their energy – the antidote to chaotic, modern life (let’s hope!). Ubiety is founded on the collective passion for caring and giving, and all of its profits go to Dorothy House Hospice Care that provides end of life care. The company works with UK manufacturers who are alchemists and are lovers of people, nature and planet. All plant-based formulations are produced in England and their signature use of woody fragrances like frankincense, spikenard and benzoin, strengthens and keeps you grounded in a moment of calm. Each product is sustainable and vegan-friendly. To find our more about Ubeity, visit findubiety.com Photography by @alicedaisy
SPARKLING SOPHISTICATION
Annabel Makin-Jones is a British fruit farmer and beekeeper. She was inspired to create a natural alternative to alcoholic options! After a night out with her friends where she was driving, she found the non-alcoholic drink options uninspiring! Annabel discovered the beneficial properties certain fruit and herbs have, from calming lavender and rose that’s great for your skin to lime flower, which will ease anxiety. This is how Tame & Wild was born! We’re loving the Tame & Wild Gift pack. It’s priced at £12.25, which includes one of each of the sparkling drink fruity flavours – rhubarb & elderberry, blueberry & dandelion, strawberry & lime flower and damson & rosehip. Inspired by all that the English countryside has to offer, from blooming botanicals to the carefree climbers of the hedgerows – it’s a delicious alternative! The drinks also have a low carbon footprint and also helps towards eliminating food waste on the farm. Even the wonky strawberries are used in the drink! The bottles, labels and caps are recyclable as well as being made in Yorkshire near to the farm! For more information and to buy visit www.tameandwilddrinks.co.uk
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
7.
PURE | CLEAN | HAND POURED | LUXURY ALL NATURAL SCENTED PRODUCTS MADE WITH SUSTAINABLE INGREDIENTS
REFILLS AVAILABLE | WWW.APOTHENIE.CO.UK INSTAGRAM AND FACEBOOK: @APOTHENIECANDLESUK
Food & Drink
BLACKBERRY & JAZZ APPLE EVE CAKE Eve cake is a British classic, and a deliciously comforting winter favourite!
Ingredients - Serves 8
How to make
🍏 🍏 🍏 🍏 🍏 🍏 🍏 🍏
1. Put the sliced JAZZ apples in a shallow ovenproof dish and sprinkle with the brown sugar. 2. Cream the butter and caster sugar until fluffy. 3. Add one egg and mix. Then gradually add the other egg and half the flour and mix again. Add the rest of the flour and a tablespoon of warm water and mix until it’s all combined. 4. Pour the mixture over the apples and bake for 40 minutes at 180°C until golden brown in colour. 5. To serve – mash up a handful of blackberries in a bowl, and add to the double cream. Mix in and drizzle on top of the cake.
500g JAZZ Apples peeled, cored and sliced 50g blackberries 125g unsalted butter 125g caster sugar 125g self-raising flour 50g soft brown sugar 2 eggs Handful of blackberries and double cream to serve
“
”
Jazz apples are a fusion of Braeburn and Royal Gala. The first British Jazz apple crop hit the shops in November 2007 with Greg Wallace helping grower Paul Mansfield to launch the variety!
Jazz Growers from across the UK have come together to create a recipe book of their favourite ways to cook with Jazz Apples. The results are delicious, and this is just one of the recipes that comes from Hinge & Sons who grow apples in Kent. Jazz Apple have also just retained their title as the ‘UK’s Tastiest Apple’ at the National Fruit Show Live this year! To view more recipes and to find out more visit jazzapple.com/uk
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
9.
THE OTHER HALF
Fashion
What will you be wearing on top for your next video call?
CLASSIC WHITE Are you’re looking for classic British style paired with London tailoring? This timeless shirt is made from 100% Oxford cotton for a smart and comfortable fit, and boasts a classic collar, button-up placket, and the signature Teddy Edward logo. Wear it un-tucked, tucked into a city-worthy suit, or paired with jeans for that smart casual vibe. £89 | Oscar Luxury White Shirt www.teddy-edward.com
WINTER WARMER We love this on-trend shirt-jacket hybrid that combines a stylish utility look with premium Moon tweed upcycled blankets. The tweed is bonded at the seams and unlined making it a great layering piece for all seasons, and is finished with the brand’s signature ‘Peregrine’ embossed buttons. It comes in six wonderful colours including plains and plaids. £195 | Dexter Wool Blanket Shirt www.peregrineclothing.co.uk
10.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
BOW WOW! Every woman needs a blouse with a bow in her wardrobe – it can take you from a day at the office to an evening out paired with a glamorous skirt or evening trousers! The Penelope also has a balloon sleeve and lovely fitted silhouette that will add a touch of elegance to your wardrobe.
Fashion
£110 | Penelope Pussy Bow Blouse www.bellesoflondon.com
DRESS TO IMPRESS Add a regal feel to your outfit with this flowing puff sleeved blouse. The contrast colour and high raglan collar make this a versatile piece that can be worn with a variety of skirts or trousers. £55 | Pink Gathered Raglan Blouse www.closetlondon.com
BLACK & WHITE Pink Clove concentrate on making clothing in plus sizes from 16-28. We love this print short-sleeve top with its stylish gathered neckline. Black and white is the perfect work combo, and will pair up with just about any garment in your wardrobe! £25 | Black Dalmatian Top www.pinkclove.co.uk
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
11.
H E L LO Christmas
Imperial Wreath from £3.99 at Dobbies
Create a one-of-a-kind wreath to hang on your front door to welcome visitors!
It’s a lovely crafty activity to do as a family round the dining table during the Christmas countdown. From a subtle style statement to glittering glamour – the choice is yours. Why not get the kids involved and get them to make their own wreaths to go on their bedroom doors. YOU WILL NEED: - An artificial wreath - Real foliage - Decorations such as pinecones - Floristry wire HOW TO MAKE: 1. Start with a plain wreath, which will give you a blank canvas to work with we have used the Imperial wreath, available in-store and online. 2. Gather some foliage. We’ve used sprigs of Eucalyptus and Bay. Add the real foliage into the wreath taking care to distribute the sprigs evenly around the wreath. 3. To make your wreath stand out you can customise it by adding decorations of your choice. We’ve chosen a pinecone theme using gold glitter, pinecones and the shatterproof green pinecones. 4. To finish, we added two large pinecones in the centre of the wreath. For a more spectacular effect, add ribbons, stars, or lighting.
This project comes from Dobbies Garden Centres and are much more than a leading garden centre retailer, they’re a shopping destination enriching people’s lives, nurturing connections between people, the community and the environment. For more information, visit www.dobbies.com
Fashion
PAST VINTAGE We chat with Jordan Kirby, the founder behind Past Vintage, a brand that celebrates the true heritage of British manufacturing in its leather goods
TELL US WHY YOU DECIDED TO CREATE PAST VINTAGE? Past Vintage was created out of frustration and to some degree the evident decline of the British leather industry. Growing up, I saw the decline of British manufacturing firsthand as my father’s business was only a stone’s throw away from the factories of MG Rover, which is based in Longbridge, Birmingham. Today, operations have moved overseas, which paints a very familiar picture throughout most industries. I bought a vintage Royal Mail postal bag back in 2014, which to my surprise was still intact. The product was made of canvas but still possessed a very strong
and durable leather handle. After looking at similar products in today’s marketplace, it was clear these are manufactured outside the UK or constructed with poor materials. As a company, we’re very focused on transparency and provenance, which is also reflected through our material and manufacturing, which is something we’re very proud of! HOW IMPORTANT IS IT THAT YOUR BAGS CELEBRATE THE HERITAGE OF BRITISH MANUFACTURING AS WELL AS SUSTAINABILITY? Heritage was one of my top
14.
priorities when I started Past Vintage. It was crucial that we never moved away from this, especially with the material. Luckily, our leather supplier and brass foundry are both located in Walsall, a town situated on the outskirts of Birmingham. Other than London, Walsall was at the heart of leather manufacturing during the early 1900’s, and it’s production of luxury leather goods was recognised globally but stiff competition from overseas manufacturing hit the town a devastating blow. Even with the overall decline, British made leather goods are still sought after and are recognised as high quality. Sticking to our values, as a company is something we will never move away from! CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHAT BRIDLE LEATHER IS? Bridle leather is well known for its strength, durability and stiffness. The finishing (also known as currying) process is very thorough taking anywhere from several weeks and even years for completion. The high
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
shine finish of bridle leather is put down to the layers of hand sprayed waxes and pigments used to dye and colour the fibres of the leather. Our leather suppliers were founded in 1900 and are world renowned for their bridle leather. The number of steps to achieve such a high quality piece of material is quite breath taking and are something to be admired.
Each piece is handpicked and inspected for markings, scars or any other imperfections. Bridle leather is very niche when it comes to the
Fashion
PAST VINTAGE mass production of leather globally. The majority of leather used today is chrome tanned, which is produced more quickly and has a much lower purchase cost. Bridle leather is vegetable tanned using natural tannins such as tree bark or leaves, and this makes it far superior to its counterparts! Sticking to bridle leather as our primary material provides us with a great pedestal. Goods destined to be passed down through generations.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BRIEFCASES DIFFERENT FROM WHAT’S ALREADY OUT THERE? Past Vintage is entirely focused on quality rather than quantity. We focused on simplicity, which in essence is what adds lifespan to our products. Fast fashion is not our scene! Our briefcases are not internally lined but have a raw finish. The reason behind this was to give focus to the material itself and for customers to experience a natural product. During the design phase, we incorporated certain features to provide flexibility and convenience directed to our customers. Extending our billet straps towards the rear of the briefcase enabled extra room and effectively offers a neat holder, ideal for a newspaper,
jacket or even an umbrella. Unlike other brands, our logo placement was another area of extensive thought, and we went with embossing on the rear to maintain a high level of exclusivity.
WHAT INSPIRES THE DESIGNS AND COLOUR WAYS THAT YOU OFFER? We reflected on ‘why we started’ when designing our first collection. Using timeless leather pieces as inspiration and as a benchmark, we were then able to introduce add
our own twist when it came to the colour selection. Contrary to this, we still had to appreciate that we’re living in an evolving digital era and providing adequate space within the briefcase was a must, to securely hold the latest smart devices such as tablets and laptops. Our colour selection was a combination of old with the new. The traditional colours of black and brown are without doubt the most common choices with leather goods but surprisingly our newest colour addition, London Tan, has claimed the most praise with the press. WHAT’S NEXT FOR PAST VINTAGE? As a new brand, we’re very much keeping our feet on the ground during these early days. For the time being, we’ll be focusing on our newly released bridle collection. Our main commitment at this moment is to focus on product quality, and to continue going against the tide in supplying true British made leather goods!
PA S T V I N TAG E www.pastvintage.com
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
15.
FINEST BRITISH BRIDLE LEATHER TO LAST A LIFETIME WWW.PASTVINTAGE.COM
Chrsstmas at home Home
We share some quirky festive essentials sure to put a smile on your family’s faces
HOMEMADE CALENDAR We love this idea from Dobbies Garden centres. It’s an inexpensive way of making an advent calendar that’s full of surprises! They’ve filled these little boxes with a selection of their sweets and confectionery including snowman lolly, luxury fruit jellies, and cinnamon stars. All priced from 99p | Dobbies Garden Centres www.dobbies.com
WRAP IN STYLE! This super cute Christmas dog-themed wrapping paper is sure to make someone smile and that’s before they see the incredible gift inside! Printed in Sussex, the wrapping paper is provided flat folded as single sheets, and features the wonderful illustrations from Heather Alstead. £3.45 | Christmas Dog Wrapping Paper www.heatheralsteaddesign.com
RUSTIC RECYCLING Inspired by the British countryside - Wonderland Works creates rustic style home decor and gifts that look so magical. Taking everyday household items and waste, they turn them into keepsakes and practical décor using a special decoupage technique. This Gonk jar is made from recycled coffee jars, and is perfect for sitting on the coffee table full of treats during the festive period. £7 | Christmas Gonk Glass Storage Jars www.wonderlandworks.co.uk
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
17.
Home A MERRY ECO-FRIENDLY CHRISTMAS Re-use these Christmas crackers every year. Decorated with a festive floral theme, they’ll be a lovely addition to your dining table setting. They include ecosnaps that are silent and pet-friendly, recyclable and compostable too. Packed in six and flat-packed, they’re ready to pop into shape and fill with your own special gifts. £19.95 | 6 Reusable Eco Crackers www.keepthiscracker.com
PAWFECT! Luxury British dog accessories brand, Teddy Maximus has introduced its personalised Christmas stockings for dogs and dog lovers! They are available in five colours and signature prints – choose from navy, apple green, pink, duck egg or peppermint – and are perfect for the whole family. £39.50 | Personalised Christmas Stocking www.tedddymaximus.com
18.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
ANIMAL ATTRACTION These reindeer antler napkin rings add that extra finishing touch to your Christmas lunch and let’s everyone know where they are sitting! Each napkin ring measures 115mm wide by 97mm high and is cut with a flat bottom so it can sit flat on a plate or table. The hole for the napkin measures 40mm in diameter to hold your best napkins securely. £14 | Personalised Christmas antler napkin rings www.belvederecollections
Stocksng Fsllers
Home
Fill those stockings with last minute gifts from British makers
SCENTED SOAK These little love heart-shaped bath melts are made with lavender essential oil and dried lavender to help you relax and indulge in the bath. Just pop one into warm water and embrace the gorgeous aroma as they melt! £9 | Bumi Naturals Organic Lavender Bath Melts www.blommabeauty.com
REST & RELAX This gift box contains a pair of cosy cashmere ribbed socks that can be personalised with your name on the band. These are super soft and perfect for keeping your feet warm. Accompanied by a beautiful cashmere lavender bag that’s soft to the touch and full of fragrance plus a Gorse + Still handcrafted candle that captures the aromas of the season. The set is a must for cosy nights in! £49.50 | Rest & Relax Gift Box www.avainnes.com
CLEAN KIDS Looking for a plastic-free stocking swap? Rowdy Kind’s plastic-free and vegan children’s simple soap bar is a contemporary update on the soap-on-a rope gift we all used to look forward to finding in our stockings as children. This bar is made specifically to be kind to kids’ sensitive and can be used on hair and everywhere! £12 | Hair and Everywhere Bar www.rowdykind.com
20.
A PINCH OF SALT The Enchantment Bath Salts are made with Dead Sea and Himalayan Pink Salts that are rich in minerals producing a relaxing bath that also that nourishes your skin! It’s fragranced with ylang ylang, geranium and patchouli essential oils and will help you unwind and soak up a little me-time! £8 | Enchantment Bath Salts Bottle www.kentishsoap.com/Christmas
CHRISTMAS CANDLE This beautiful winter scent allows you to float into a festive comfort and calm on a long winter’s night. The fragrant combination of tangerine and pine needle work beautifully with cinnamon to bring that seasonal aroma into your home to help you relax and enjoy the joyful Christmas season. £35 | Winter Special Edition Candle www.apothenie.co.uk
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk Photography by @jamesdaveyphotography
from our heavenly scented soaps and rich body butters, to our cozy soy wax candles and more. all our natural products are... 100% Vegan, plastic-free palm-oil free and eco-friendly.
www.kentishsoap.com
Regulars
EDITOR’S PICKS Exciting British products that we love and think you will too!
APRICOT GERANIUM & APRICOT PALMAROSA GIFT SET Find The Rose Tree on our directory at www.beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
ENAMEL PENDANT Find MaisyPlum on our directory at www.beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
RECHARGE FOCUS CAPSULES BY LIFE ARMOUR Find Blomma Beauty on our directory at www.beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
LUXURY OVERALLS Find My Overalls on our directory at www.beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
22.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
Regulars
DOG BANDANA Find Slumbering Hound on our directory at www.beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
CURLEWS CUSHION Find Lynn Forder Designs on our directory at www.beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
MIRACLE BODY WASH & RAMI SHOWER POUF Find Moo & Yoo on our directory at www.beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
WOOL MULTI-SPOT SCARF Find Hettie on our directory at www.beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
23.
FOOD glorious FOOD! Food & Drink
Whether this year brings an intimate dinner for two or family celebrations – here are six festive foods for your celebrations!
EAT CAKE!
This traditional Christmas loaf cake contains a delicious 46% fruit. It’s decorated with gold en and glacé glazed cherries and blanched alm onds to give it that wonderful Christmas feel. And, fina lly, topped with a toasted marzipan star and dusted with icing sugar for the perfect finish. £12 | Christmas Loaf Cake Tin www.cartwrightandbutler.co. uk
ES E COOKI FESTIV uits sc as shaped bi
istm shape gorgeous Chr biscuits in the jar includes 24 e ns ai ag nt or st co r is ja Th e men d Th . ea ve br lo er ill ren w s and ging ar st s, ng that the child ed. ki oc been hand ic polar bears, st and each has es of penguins, ki oo C hristmas £40 | Jar of C om .c es ak lb wel www.honey
24.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
Don’t forget the dog!
Does your dog turn his or her nose up at Supermarket treats? Looking at some of the ingredients you can see why! Treat your pooch to a bag of these yummy peanut butter and cinnamon Christmas Treats. They are gluten and grain free too! Don’t worry if he or she doesn’t eat them all on Christmas day, as these biscuits will last up to eight weeks. £3.50 | Christmas Treats for dogs www.lolastreatsandsqueaks.co.uk
“
Nothing brings people together like good food!
Mouthwatering mince pies
Baked in Betty’s craft bakery in Harrogate, these nibble sized mince pies are every bit as delectable. The box contains 16 mouthwatering mini pies, which are perfect for passing round at dinner parties and festive get-togethers. They’re all made with a butter-rich pastry, just choose between pies topped with flaked almonds or traditional crumble with crystallised ginger, pistachio, walnuts and dried cranberries, or celebrate the classic version. £13 | Miniature Mince Pies www.bettys.co.uk
”
Food & Drink
Hot Chocolate a la difference!
Made from 100% Belgian milk chocolate, with mini marshmallows hidden inside, these bombes are presented in a beautiful Christmas cracker. It’s the perfect size to put in a Christmas stocking. Simply put the hot chocolate bombe in a mug, slowly pour over steaming milk, and watch as the dreamy chocolate melts to uncover the mini marshmallows hiding within. Sounds delicious, doesn’t it? £9.95 | Hot Chocolate Bombe Cracker www.cocobachocolate.com
PLUM PUDDING
LillyPuds has modified its traditional pudding recipe for those choosing a Vegan and or Gluten Free diet. It’s full of the same luxury ingredients including vine fruits, apples, apricots, almonds and ginger blended with vegan/gluten free ale and brandy. £8.75 – £12.95 | Premium Vegan and Gluten Free Christmas Pudding www.lillypuds.co.uk
Eat your green
This is such a quirky creatio n, and the pe likes to indulg rfect e in a tipple! M ade entirely fro present for a friend who sprout is enca m chocolate, sed in white ch each Brussel centre featur ocolate with ing Baileys Iri a milk chocol sh Cream. Ea ate ganache by Scottish ch ch and every on ocolatiers who e is handmade spheres then pipe the fillin hand roll them g into white ch into their unca ocolates They also co nny sprout-lik me in eco brow e appearance n paper pack . aging, so perfe ct for a less wasteful Chris tmas! £12 | Boozy B russel Sprout s quirkychocol ate.com
s!
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
25.
Lifestyle
shop
small
and
support British businesses
this christmas 26.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
Food & Drink
EMMA DODI CAKES We talk to Emma Dodi about her amazing bespoke cakes
Tell us a bit about yourself and the story behind your exquisite cake business?
How do you go about producing a cake for a client – is it based on a story?
I am Emma, founder of Emma Dodi Cakes. I design bespoke cakes and trademark hand-painted macarons from my studio in Battersea, London. Having had a career in banking, and then four children, I needed something to get my teeth into - literally! I have always been creative and into food (I am Italian) so I guess going from banker to baker was the most natural move after all, all I needed to do was drop a letter!
When I design a cake for a client, there is always a story – their story! I seek to bring their character, design and style into the end result. I discuss tones, colours, textures, like and dislikes translating into the client’s vision and making it a bespoke reality. Sometimes it can be a very quick process, and other times it’s more laborious but it always a fantastic challenge.
Your cakes taste amazing but also push the boundaries when it comes to the design, don’t you? I love the creative process, I love the challenge of making bespoke products and I love to push boundaries, so I’m always so excited and passionate about my projects. The beauty and aesthetics of the end product is what drives me, I’m forever drawing in my sketchbook, and have numerous scrapbooks where I collect and collate things I like. I always want to do something different and come up with new and original designs
Macarons are one of your signature bakes. What is it about this small sweet treat that you like?
Who have you made cakes for? I have made bespoke macarons and cakes for corporates such as De Gournay, Ridley London, Blakes London, Rosie Fortesque Jewellery. I have also made them for a number of very well know names, but in many cases I can’t say who – I have been sworn to secrecy I’m afraid!
And finally, tell us three random things about yourself? I have pink hair! I love windsurfing and I once set up a self-storage business.
CONTACT
First and foremost I love macarons so that’s how it all started. Macarons are renowned for being tricky to make but I love a challenge! And quite simply, I just love how a simple almond cookie can be so versatile in terms of fillings and so utterly delicious. Plus, despite being so small and delicate, I can be creative, I can paint them, personalise them, make them unique and even more special than they already are.
Emma Dodi Cakes www.emmadodicakes.com
Tell us about the ingredients, and what are your favourite ingredients to use? I love the alchemy of the kitchen. I love to use the finest ingredients, and can often be found in the kitchen experimenting with new flavours and recipes! I am very focused on taste and texture and I experiment quite a lot before adding new flavours to my repertoire – the most recent being delicious, zingy Japanese yuzu.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
27.
Health & FUN FAMILY DINING WeBeauty love these personalised street sign napkins, they make a great addition to any family table! Just provide your family name, postcode and area and leave the rest up to Johnny’s Sister to make a great gift. It’s the perfect present for new home owners, newlyweds or perhaps just to add your personal stamp to the dining table. £8 each | Personalised Street Sign Napkin www.jonnyssister.co.uk
LET THERE BE LIGHT! How gorgeous is this beautifully crafted lamp designed by Anna Jacobs. Her inspiration comes from her original painting of a Ginkgo tree in ink, pencil and acrylic on plaster and board. The lampshade focuses on the stunning ink work and detail of the leaves, and is handcrafted in a colourfast canvas by craftspeople in Shropshire. The beautiful lamp base is handmade in crystal glass from the Norfolk coast. £249 | Ginkgo In Sunshine lamp on Sunshine Flex www.annajacobsart.com
H O M E comforts BEAT THE WINTER BLUES BY REFRESHING YOUR HOME WITH COSINESS, HUMOUR AND COLOUR!
COLOURFUL CUSHIONS These lovely cushions are made with a super soft cotton linen mix, and come complete with the cushion pad. We love the fairground themed fonts that have been used to create customised lettering. All of the cushion collections are proudly handmade in London and therefore, quite rightly, carry the authenticity of being ‘Made in the UK’! £29.99 |Showtime Cushions www.welovecushions.co.uk
28.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
Health & Beauty
MADE TO MEASURE Add a splash of colour to your windows with a bright pair of curtains. Made from a blend of natural fibres including wool and flax, as well as recycled silk, this is an eco-friendly fabric that’s as good for the environment as it is for the home. The warm and textural fabric with a subtle three-tone mix feels luxurious and unconventional and will brighten up any room. Eco Curtains www.stitched.co.uk
CONCRETE COASTERS Created during lockdown, these coasters were a happy mistake when Mr Concrete’s six year old asked if she could help Daddy with pouring concrete rather than doing her maths! Mr Concrete is happy to admit that he took inspiration from her original messy designs to make these hand poured splatter-effect coasters. The surface is smooth and feels truly luxurious to the touch and the coasters are made to endure. Each sit on a protective cork base. £32 | Set of 4 Black/Blush Splatter Concrete Coasters www.concreteandwax.com
COASTAL DINING! We can’t get out much at the moment, so why not treat your family to some wonderful coastal themed dining! These seahorse bone china plates have a striking illustration that features an iconic sea creature and will remind you of days by the sea. The collection consists of eight beautifully illustrated sea creatures and crustaceans that will transport you straight to the ocean’s edge. Other matching coastal tableware is also available. From £17 | Blue and White Seahorse Plates www.creamcornwall.co.uk
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
29.
Home
THE ORIGINAL BRITISH MANUFACTURER OF THE SIMPLEX KETTLE Lee Sheppard, Director of Newey Bloomer talks about this company’s copper kitchen essential Frederick Bloomer and Charles Herbert Newey founded the company during the reign of Queen Victoria in 1850. From their workshop, they started out making anything in copper and brass from warming pans to fittings for Barber’s shops, and all things in between. With the rise of tea drinking and the need for a safe way to boil smaller amounts of water, the two men designed the very first Simplex kettle in 1903. Simplex kettles are still made to the original patent by the company, and even in today’s times, we make every single kettle by hand from the highest grade of copper. Each spout is lined with tin, delicately curved
30.
with an elegant bird’s mouth that ensures a smooth optimum flow, perfect for pour over coffee, as well as into a mug or pot. The patented lid features an integral whistle, which is an ingenious design by Charles and Frederick, and today, we continue to manufacture to the same standards so that whistle still pipes up in kitchens all around the world. Every Simplex kettle is proudly hallmarked with ‘Made in England’. It was Mark Bloomer who taught me everything about Simplex kettles, and I learnt every step of the production at his side, just as he had learned from his father and back through the generations. It’s hard
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
work, and dirty, but we get a great sense of achievement when they are finally polished and boxed and ready to go to their final home! I think what makes these kettles so special, is that every kettle is made by hand to the original patent registered in 1903. We select only the purest and finest copper and brass and spin by hand the traditional shape and ensure the centre seam is in the middle of the kettle. Not only is copper durable and resistant, but its timeless beauty will add a warm glow to any kitchen, and the chrome plated models fit comfortably in a contemporary setting. Copper has a lot of great properties and is a magical material that is
Home
“
”
CUSTOMER REVIEW
I love my kettle. This is the best and fastest boiling kettle I’ve ever had for using on the AGA. It’s also beautifully made and gives my kitchen a warm coppery glow. I’m set up for the winter now. And it was made in Birmingham. Perfect! comments Jane K
naturally anti- viral and anti-bacterial. It also has fantastic heat exchange properties which means the kettles boil very quickly! The longevity and timelessness of these cooper kettles means this investment is something that will stay in your kitchen for generations. The kettles are made in our factory in Birmingham. The Highgrove is one of our newest models and has been crafted especially for AGAs, Rayburns. It’s available in copper only and has the melodic whistling lid and patented birdsmouth spout, which gives the perfect pour for both tea and coffee aficionados. Another one of our popular kettles is the iconic 1950’s style Beehive that’s suitable for gas and electric stoves. It’s robust, simple, and yet elegant and is as popular today as it was 70 years ago! These iconic examples of British design are also available with the added luxury of chrome plating, which is stunning to look at and also easy to care for. The full range of kettles can be found on our website. People ask me what’s the secret to a good cup of
tea? Making tea in a pot is the best way, and pouring the boiling water over loose-leaf tea is always tastier. We drink English Breakfast and Earl Grey. Keeping the original factory shine on your kettle requires a little investment too in a good metal polishing compound such as Brasso, and a little elbow grease occasionally! The chrome-plated kettles are plated over the top of solid copper and are a breeze to keep shiny! Just a simple wipe with a damp soapy cloth and a final light polish with a dry cloth will bring the shine back instantly. The strength and durability of copper means a genuine Newey & Bloomer should last a generation if it’s shown love and care it deserves!
NEWEY & BLOOMER
www.neweybloomer.co.uk 0121 285 5600
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
31.
NEWEY & BLOOMER IS THE ORIGINAL BRITISH MANUFACTURER OF THE TRULY EXQUISITE SIMPLEX KETTLE RANGE
HIGHGROVE IN COPPER ONLY
BEEHIVE BLENHEIM AVAILABLE IN CHROME AND COPPER These authentic kitchen essentials are still made by hand from the highest grade of copper to exacting patented standards in Birmingham, England. The longevity and timelessness of these kettles means this investment is something that will stay in your kitchen for generations.
0121 285 5600 enquiries@neweybloomer.com www.neweybloomer.co.uk
Wrap up warm with these beautiful winter essentials
BERET £55 | Tweed Vintage style Beret www.quintonchadwick.com
Fashion
ARMWARMERS £85 | Multi-stripe Pure Cashmere Armwarmers www.purlenglish.com Knitted by hand in the Purl English studio in Oxfordshire – these arm-warmers are made in derby grey pure cashmere with a vibrant colourful stripe of orange and flame. They bring practical luxury to the everyday, and are perfect to wear you’re your favourite poncho when it can get a little drafty!
FOOTBALL SCARF £55 | Faithful Red White and Black Cotton-Merino Football Scarf www.savile-rogue.com The Faithful scarf is an extra long football scarf in super soft cotton and merino. In red, white and black, this fine knitted football scarf bears no club crest so it can be worn to the game or on any occasion.
SOCKS £25.75 | Luxury lounge socks www.heating-and-plumbing.com These soft socks are perfect for cosy winter nights in. They will keep your feet warm in bed or wear when lazing on the sofa. They’re made from 70% British alpaca and 30% wool and come in some gorgeous colours.
UNISEX BEANIE £35 | Reversible Lambswool Beanie Hat www.foxologyclothing.com This fabulous two-colour beanie hat is reversible and made from gorgeously soft Geelong lambswool that will keep those ears warm! It’s knitted in one piece and being seamfree, it means it’s comfortable to wear and won’t rub!
SHAWL £45 | Etive Wool Shawl www.stagandbruce.co.uk Made from 100% lambswool, this shawl will look fab draped over your shoulders when you’re feeling a little cold. With bold gold checks complimented by natural tones and granite, it’s woven from ethically sourced surplus yarn.
34.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
CAP IN HAND Fashion £35 | Baker Boy Hat www.hettie.co.uk Crafted in finest Yorkshire tweed and available in sizes of small and medium and large, this Baker boy style hat is so stylish. They are available in each of the brand’s collection colours and is shown here in denim.
MAKE YOUR OWN HEADBAND AND MITTENS £24.99 | Ada Mittens and Headband Knitting Kit www.woolcouturecompany.com Do you fancy a go at knitting your own winter warmers? Then this knitting kit is a really fun project, and it won’t take too long to knit up either! Made with moss stitch throughout, the mittens and headband have a lovely textured stitch, and you can top this with a big bow! The set is a winter essential, and will keep you snuggly warm, and also makes the perfect gift for that crafty person in your life!
GLOVES £199 | Deene Driving Gloves www.dentsgloves.com Get behind the steering wheel in style with these premium hair sheep leather driving gloves. They feature a stylish contrasting thumb, perforated fingers and a classic Dents stud.
BERET £55 | Tweed Vintage style Beret www.quintonchadwick.com We love this tweed vintage style stripe beret in black, aqua and a hint of yellow and warm tangerine. How cute is the flecked pompom! Made in Scotland, this stylish hat is made from 100% lambswool bringing traditional skills together with a modern take on the beret.
PERFECTLY PINK £45 | Pink Scarf www.sandrahardy.co.uk Brighten up your winter wardrobe with a vibrant pink, combined with orange, purple and turquoise. This scarf is made from 100% lightweight boiled wool that’s so soft to the touch. This scarf is nearly a metre long and will wrap around your neck/ It features a gorgeous contrasting decorative stitching.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
35.
SWATCH MEDIA EDIT & DESIGN SERVICE Helping small businesses with production and design of leaflets, books, posters, interactive pdfs and much more... Get in touch for a quote now at; hello@beautifullybritishmag.com hello@swatchmedia.co.uk
QUOTE: BB7 BB2 for 10% off
B ES P O K E ST RA P FO R YO U R WATCH Treat your favourite watch to a new hand-stitched strap of outstanding craftsmanship that’s made to your specifications. You choose the leather, type of buckle and thread colour. Choose from nine wrist measurements and 10 lug widths. Your bespoke strap will arrive in its individual leather case making it extra special.
Regulars
£120 | Bellever Bespoke Watch Strap www.tannerbates.co.uk WA L KI ES, A NY O NE? Show your furry four-legged friend how much you love them this Christmas by giving them the pawfect gift to set tails wagging! This rolled red leather dog collar and matching red laced lead is designed to withstand the ruff and tumble of everyday walks, and will have your precious pooch looking like the belle of the ball when you take them on their daily adventures. £55 per item | Matching Rolled Red Leather Dog Collar & Laced Lead www.lgleatherworks.com
leather accessories A leather accessory can last you a lifetime
CO L D HA NDS Made from aniline leather, these super soft ladies gloves are lined with a brushed micro-fibre fleece for warmth and durability and feature the classic three point detailing on the back of the hand. They are the go-to gloves that should always be in your handbag through the winter months. Handy for the drive into work, a brisk stroll into town for Friday night drinks, or a bracing country walks at the weekend!
BEAUTY I S I N THE EYE O F THE BEHO L DER! Keep your glasses safely in this leather glass case adorned with a solid brass or nickel Sam Browne stud closure. Handmade from a single piece of leather, it is embossed with FizzArrow logo, and comes in a range of limited edition colours but once they are gone in this colour, they are gone for good! £25 | The FizzArrow Glasses Case www.fizzarrow.co.uk
£45 | Aniline Leather Gloves www.pittards.com
P E N P U S H E R S E V E RYWHER E No stationery lover is complete without a gorgeous pencil case. This one is made from printed ‘hair on hide’ Italian leather and is trimmed with a contrasting leather pull. Why not use it as a makeup bag for your handbag! £30 | Large Pencil Case tea-green.co.uk
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
37.
HAPPY FEET Health & Beauty
Look after your family’s feet with gorgeous foot care treatments
SLEEP, FEET, REPEAT! With a soothing blend of aromatherapy oils lavender, bergamot, cedarwood and chamomile with deeply nourishing whipped Shea butter, this cream will help heal skin, ease away tension, and soften tired feet while you are sleeping! Dream Night Cream £26.00 |www.kissthemoon.com
JOG ON! Made especially for those runners, joggers and serious walkers among you, this oil gives those achy, battered and bruised feet a real treat! It‘s handmade with lots of natural oils like thistle oil, grape seed, lavender as well as crambe seed, and rosemary and lime. Runners & Joggers Foot Oil £12.95 | www.applymebeauty.co.uk
38.
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
Health & Beauty HANDMADE IN DEVON This is such a lovely treat for tired and aching feet, just let the combination of tea tree, peppermint and cypress work their magic on your feet! This clever combination of natural essential oils helps reduce swelling, encourages circulation and combats bacteria and fungi. Simply add around 10ml to a footbath and soak for 15 minutes or massage directly onto your feet and sit back and enjoy! Foot Relief Massage Oil £12.95 | www.theoilhut.co.uk
COOL FEET This foot gel gives a refreshing and cooling sensation. With aloe vera and a powerful blend of natural essential oils, it has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. The gel is perfect for hot, heavy and tired feet especially after exercise and will revitalise your feet and legs. It’s also good at soothing skin after insect bites. Revitalising Foot Gel £11.95| www.gum-on.co.uk
BUZZING WITH GOODNESS This refreshing balm contains beeswax, which is renowned for its moisturising properties and coconut oil to help restore your skin’s pH level to 5.5 without blocking pores. If you suffer from dry, cracked skin on your heels, this foot balm is perfect with its moisturising properties and refreshing peppermint to cool after a hard day. Cooling & Refreshing Peppermint Foot Balm £10.50 | www.backtonatureskincare.co.uk
beautifullybritishmag.co.uk
39.
