Trend Dec 19 / Jan 20

Man cave

Northern exposure Short breaks in Shetland

The best in masculine retreats

Fun & games

Our pick of family board games and toys

A FLOATATION EXPERIENCE FROM URBAN WELLNESS HUB

Get geared up for the festive season

TICKETS TO ON YOUR FEET AT HMT

We know that when you feel unwell or concerned, quick access to care is what matters most.

That’s why at ROC we ensure you have access to an experienced doctor same day!

Call in AM, be in by PM Comprehensive Gynaecological Checks & Scans

Erectile Dysfunction Assessment & Treatment

Fertility Assessments & Pregnancy Scans

Mental Health & Wellbeing

Gynaecological examination, Smear and HPV tests, Ovarian Cancer screening, Sexual Health screening and Same Day Gynaecological Scans.

Initial assessments and ongoing monitoring during fertility treatments at private clinics in UK or abroad.

Detailed pregnancy scans and Harmony Tests.

Menopause Evaluation

Bespoke consultations and testing with Dr Jane Johnston- Menopause Specialist. Personalised HRT, testosterone or natural treatments to meet your needs.

Achieve Optimum Sexual Health with latest 5-day shockwave treatment solution.

Painless and effective for the suitable patients.

Onsite consultant psychiatrist for depression, anxiety, sleep or ADHD symptoms. Discreet and confidential service.

Prostate & Testosterone Evaluation

Advanced testing for Prostate Cancer, prostatitis and Urinary difficulties. Testosterone deficiency evaluation and replacement.

Westhill Business Park Peregrine Road Westhill AB32 6JL

Tel: 01224 515254 Email: aberdeen@rochealthservices.com rocprivateclinic.com

6 | CONTENTS

FASHION

Viva la diva! Party outfits with an Italian edge 30 Layer upon layer: pile it on for winter warmth 36

20 92

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FOOD & DRINK

Steak supremo: Meet the head chef at Malmaison 42 Trend tries: The Quarter House at Hilton TECA 44 Ask the Chef: Craig Wilson on the perfect cheeseboard 55

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TRAVEL & LEISURE

Northern Exposure: Short breaks in Shetland 78 Win tickets to On Your Feet at HMT 81 Winter festivals: Christmas and New Year cheer 82 Peter Mitchell has the Last Word 94

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

20 On your marks! Our pick of winter running kit 28 Looking good: 2020’s makeup trends 38 Win a floatation experience from Urban Wellness Hub

ART, CULTURE & KIDS

84 Kids: our pick of toys and the best board games 88 Take a jewellery making workshop at The Smiddy 92 Our pick of what’s on in December and January

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HOMES & GARDENS

40 Man Cave: masculine retreats 58 To the max: mastering maximalist interiors 62 Kirsty McLean on winter gardening

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ADVERTISEMENTS WELCOME | 7

ISSUE N0. 73 | DEC 19/JAN 20

FROM THE

EDITOR Welcome to our December and January issue!

As usual, we’ve gone for Christmas in a big way at Trend Towers. Partly, it’s to avoid all the endless political sniping and dubious promises we’ve all endured in the run up to the general election. Goodwill to all men seems to have been put aside, so we’re concentrating on having a good time in the depths of winter. A pox on politicians. There’s only one party we care about and that’s a Christmas Party! Festive playlists have been on repeat for a fortnight, party dress might-buys considered and compared, guest rooms prepared, festive films watched for the fifteenth time, a few champagne corks popped while a mountain of presents were wrapped, and menu options planned and re-planned. Oh, yes, we’re feeling foolishly festive.

Once the festivities of December and New Year have receded, January is more a time for planning and reflection, not least when we examine our expanding waistlines and diminishing bank balances. It’s about deciding who you want to be, how you want to change as we enter a new decade. So whether you’re in full on party mode, or planning a major overhaul of your finances, wardrobe, body and mind, or just a few upgrades, we’ve got it covered. You’ll find ideas for travel, fitness, gifting, eating out, and dining in, shopping, beauty, interiors and so much more.

Have the merriest of Christmases and we wish you all everything you wish for yourselves in 2020.

Love Everyone at Trend x

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Prices are correct at time of going to press, but may be subject to change. Trend cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions by contributors in the magazine may not represent the views of the publisher.

Trend Productions Ltd takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers in this publication. T&Cs apply to all competitions & offers.

PUBLISHED BY TREND PRODUCTIONS LTD PO Box 11858, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire AB39 9AN +44 (0)1224 596223 info@trendmagazine.co.uk trendmagazine.co.uk

DIRECTOR Gill Buyers gill@trendmagazine.co.uk EDITOR Alison Daniels alison@trendmagazine.co.uk ADVERTISING Clare Findlay clare@trendmagazine.co.uk DESIGN Lisa Thompson lisa@trendmagazine.co.uk ACCOUNTS Jill Walker jwalker@trendmagazine.co.uk PRINT Stephens & George Print Group DISTRIBUTION Nordrop

Contributors Newsline Media, Kirsty McLean, Peter Mitchell, Jan Leatham, Courtney O’Grady, Shanay Taylor

On the Cover MODEL | Katie Taylor of Premiere Productions BASE | Emma Hardie cleansing balm, Avene moisturiser, CT youth glow primer, Nars cheer glow foundation, CT powder airbrush flawless finish, Laura Mercier under eye powder EYES & LIPS | Soap brows, Nyx brow pencil ash brown, Glossier cream blush beam, Bobbie Brown coral blush, HD bronzer medium, Maybelline gel liner, Tarte in bloom eye palette, Tl4 tatti lashes, Body Shop lip liner, Urban Decay chill setting spray, Lip Sara Hill Berry ‘boysenberry’Gold glitter added, Eyes peaches and cream gatsby pigment PHOTOGRAPHER | Donna Murray, assisted by Camryn Forman STYLING | Ellen Lily Gray MAKE UP | Carla Jane Dillon HAIR | Sarah Ironside of Salon 70 STOCKISTS | @hamishmunro, John Lewis & Partners, Beauelle LOCATION | The Esslemont & Mac’s Pizzeria

Every 15 seconds somewhere in the world a Hydra Facial is performed. What is it about this facial that makes it so popular?

Its appeal is that it can help a wide range of skin conditions from Acne to wrinkles, dry skin and redness. You can have the full hour or nip in for a quick 30 minute 3 step treatment in your lunch break.

In a nutshell it is a ‘medical grade hydradermabrasion’ which essentially is a resurfacing treatment that clears out your pores and hydrates your skin.

HydraFacial is a 4 step treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, extracts and hydrates the skin with serums that have anti-ageing and antioxidant properties. Boosters can be added during the treatment to aid any specific skin requirements for example hydrating lips or calming red and sensitive skin.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE TREATMENT? The HydraFacial treatment starts with cleansing by removing the dead skin cells and excess sebum from the skin. Next, a mix of salicylic and glycolic acids are applied to the skin to break up any dirt and oil that's clogging pores. Then, the HydraPeel Tip is used to essentially vacuum out blackheads, dirt, oil, and impurities, while hydrating, plumping, and nourishing serums are simultaneously applied to the skin.

WHAT DOES THE TREATMENT DO FOR YOUR SKIN? A HydraFacial treatment can improve and benefit your skin by hydrating brightening, plumping, and giving a clear complexion.

It can also improve signs of ageing as the treatment reduces fine lines and wrinkles, increases firmness, evens tone, texture, and brown spots, plus reduces enlarged pores.

Side effects are minimal but you will receive a full assessment prior to your treatment so that we can discuss your skin type and run through the procedure and recommend the appropriate serum and boosters if required.

We tested this on our COO Alena who stated: ‘I was happy to volunteer for this and must admit was shocked at what came out of my pores, the treatment is quite relaxing, the peel is on for 1 minute and then removed so although there is a slight tingle as with any peel it is not too uncomfortable. The suction phase is where your pores are cleaned out and the results are eye opening! After the treatment my skin felt very well hydrated and although I had a slight redness as my skin is very sensitive I was glowing!! Within an hour or so the redness had gone and my skin did look plumper. I would definitely have this again and am signing up for monthly treatments!’

Tel: 0333 0143 488 tac-aesthetics.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENTS | 9

Joyce McKenzie-Lorensin, Sandra Sinclair, Kim Connah, Fiona Windle, Mandy Aitchison

Pauline Fraser, Wendy Atkinson, Gillian Watson

JDRF Ladies Lunch WHO: Friends and colleagues glammed up for the JDRF ladies lunch.

Fina Windle, Fiona Allen

Kerry Morrison, Judy McCutcheon

WHAT: The JDRF ladies lunch event was transformed into Motown Magic and the ladies were given a fun-filled afternoon with delicious food and outstanding entertainment.

The feel-good factor was high with all of the funds raised going to this worthwhile charity.

There was also a unique brand of luxury with stalls from Holland Cooper and No 18 gifts.

WHERE: The Chester Hotel

Lorraine Mathieson, Celia Simpson, Kelly Petrie

Lee Jobson, Tracey Cowie

Diane McRae, Dr Sam Robson

Tracey Giles, Carol Kennedy

Nicki McKinnon, Julie Greg, Laura Ewen

Rachel Wood, Kate Crichton, Carrie Keenan, Leigh Mathieson

Hazel Innes, Shona Walker

Chelsey Mitchell, Ruth Harris

Clare Scott, Louise Ritchie, Sharon King, Pamela Milne, Elaine Guyan

Abbie Tough Gauld, Elaine Tait, Ailsa Alsop, Katherine Lovie, Shannon Strachan, Nyree Slater

Lisa Lawson, Jodie Lawson

A boutique hair & beauty salon located in the heart of Chapelton. For all your hair and beauty needs, under one roof.

• • • • • •

Hair Nails Lashes Brows Massage ELEMIS Facials

• BIOTEC Facials • Acupuncture • Cosmetic Acupuncture • Cupping • Dermaplaning and much more...

8 Hume Square, Chapelton, AB39 8AE Tel: 01569 739319 theloungeatchapelton.com

Good design speaks volumes and drives business to your door.

Whether it’s brand identity, marketing material, manuals, advertising, report layouts or magazines, we can help you!

CONTACT OUR DESIGN TEAM design@trendmagazine.co.uk Tel. 01224 596223

T

he healing powers of Thai massage have been celebrated since long before modern medicine. Focusing on the body’s energy lines, this alternative therapy combines acupressure with Ayurvedic principles to deliver a treatment that is as relaxing as it is restorative.

Rosemount Beauty, located on Esslemont Avenue, is Aberdeen’s newest Thai massage parlour, offering a variety of traditional treatments in a relaxed environment. In Thai massage, the therapist works the full body, focusing on pressure points to relieve tension, improve circulation and increase energy levels. This is a deep tissue massage

that also gives the feet special focus, as their wellbeing is considered a top priority in Thai culture.

Rosemount Beauty specialises in Thai traditional massage, aromatherapy oil massage, and reflexology therapy, with some sessions lasting up to two hours to ensure maximum benefit.

Whether you are looking for relief from pain, or just need to restore peace and wellbeing after a hectic week, the team at Rosemount Beauty can show you why this traditional therapy has survived the ages.

66-68 Esslemont Avenue, Aberdeen AB25 1SR Tel: 01224 640300 or 07881208223

New scarf collections in store now!

DENTAL IMPLANTS, something to smile about Andrew Scott Dental Care

Y

our smile is an investment. Good teeth boost your confidence, making you feel more attractive and happier and, if properly cared for, will last a long time. Yet sometimes, we are left with missing teeth.

Years ago, dentures were the only option, but they often cause irritation, moving when you eat, speak or smile.

Dental implants offer a better long-term solution.

They are secured in the jaw bone, so they’re as close to natural teeth as possible.

Andrew Scott is recognised as a highly accomplished implant dentist, with over twenty years’ experience using the best materials and dental laboratories to ensure the best results.

The implant process starts with an extensive consultation, generally including a 3D X-ray to determine the suitability of the treatment, followed by a treatment plan.

It takes three to six months for a dental implant to integrate fully with the bone. Then an impression is taken for the crown or bridge which fits the implant perfectly. Implants are suitable for those over 19.

Individual implants cost around £2000 for a single implant with crown.

That’s something to smile about.

15A Victoria Street, Aberdeen AB10 1XB Tel: 01224 806700 andrewscottdental.co.uk

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9.30am -5pm Sat 10am-5pm 18 Chapel Street, Aberdeen AB10 1SP Find us on Facebook!

Scarf £25

16 | HOLDING SPACE

Rebalance and Empower HAVE YOU EVER USED BACH’S RESCUE REMEDY?

D

id you know that there are 5 separate flower remedies in Rescue Remedy and that there are 38 individual remedies in total?

Kim Woolner has been on her own wellness journey over the past 25 years, trying and discovering new ways to balance her own emotional, mental and physical health, alongside that of her family.

With a professional career in HR, she is naturally people-focused, meaning that her qualification as a Bach Flower Remedies Practitioner (BFRP) in 2012 was an obvious next step.

As Holding Space, Kim creates bespoke solutions using the 38 flower remedies, creating

tailored remedies for anything from wedding day nerves to children’s allergies and anxieties, supporting her clients’ emotional health, with a natural alternative to conventional medication.

She also acts as a coach and guide, providing an understanding and confidential ear, whilst helping people to learn the importance of selfcare and positive mental attitude.

Kim is currently the only registered BRFP in Aberdeen city and shire and is also registered with the General Regulatory Council for Complimentary Therapy.

She is qualified in Mental Health First Aid and Aromatouch Technique, and holds certificates in Child Behaviours and Generalised Anxiety and Panic Disorders. @holdingyourspace holdingyourspace.co.uk

Westhill’s winter beauty wonderland Whether you want to look fabulous over the festive season, or get the new decade off to a perfectly groomed start, Cali Beauty is the place to go.

Owner Eilidh Cairns and her friendly team will have you looking your best from head to toe.

Book a Winter Warmer package which combines a relaxing hot oil back massage with Cali’s signature facial, or put in some party prep with LVL Lashes, Cali Brows and a seasonal Gelish manicure or pedicure, or pick up some Tatti Strip Lashes to go. From their Age-Defying Facial, to massages and Harley Waxing, Cali offer great value.

You can even pick up a present or two from the salon, as Cali now stock KSC natural scented candles, which smell divine and are made in Royal Deeside. Beautiful!

Elevator Business Centre, 9A Endeavour Drive, Westhill, AB32 6UF Tel: 01224 330566 calibeauty123 calibeauty.co.uk

18 | IN-BRIEF

Skene Business Centres mark anniversary with expansion Skene Business Centres operates serviced office accommodation at 7 Queen’s Gardens, 23 Rubislaw Den North and 96 Rosemount Viaduct in Aberdeen, and celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. Plans to expand the portfolio following the addition of 2 and 3 Queen’s Gardens and an investment of more than £1million have been announced, and the new space is expected to open in 2020.

Skene Group Chairman, Professor Charles Skene CBE and Skene Business Centres Manager, Maeghan Cuthill

No.1 The Guest House The home of great hair There’s nothing like a new hair style to chase away the winter blues. Finding a cut and colour that works with your face shape and lifestyle can be transformative, making you look younger and feel happier.

Carol Garden and her welcoming team have a gift for custom colour work, as well as Racoon hair extensions, special occasion and wedding hair and great cuts for the entire family.

Whether you’re looking for a new look, or just great hair, check in to the Guest House!

1 Beechgrove Terrace AB15 5DR Tel: 01224 640745

no1theguesthouse

HAVE YOU SEEN LAVA’S DEESIDE COLLECTION, IT STARTS AT £60!

265 North Deeside Road Peterculter, AB14 0UL Tel: 01224 735000 lavajewellery.com

A

ll our married lives have been spent a stone’s throw from the River Dee, and we've enjoyed many a walk along its banks. We've tried to capture the flowing water in the engraved and raised lines, with the blue diamonds representing the reflected colour of the sky on a sunny day.

Duncan and Jacqui

© Shutterstock /By RomarioIen

GOING FOR A RUN IN THE WINTER IS AS MUCH A MENTAL AS IT IS A PHYSICAL CHALLENGE. TAKING THAT FIRST STEP OUT THE DOOR IS HALF THE BATTLE, AND THAT IS MUCH MORE LIKELY TO HAPPEN IF YOU ENSURE THAT YOU ARE PROPERLY ATTIRED.

Salomon Speedcross Vario 2 GTX Trail Running Shoe

Sealskinz Waterproof Knitted Beanie Hat

Kalenji Run Warm+ Jogging Tights

Gore R3 Gore-Tex Hooded Jacket

Winter inevitably means soggy trails or squishy snow underfoot. Keeping your feet dry is a priority.

Salomon’s Speedcross Vario 2 incorporates a full GoreTex membrane, to keep your feet cosy and dry, with a Wet Traction ContaGrip sole unit to keep slipping and sliding to a minimum. gooutdoors.co.uk

They say that putting on a hat does for your body what closing the front door does for your house – it keeps the heat in. This Sealskinz beanie does that with style.

The microfleece lining wicks away moisture while the acrylic knitted outer layer repels water with ease. blacks.co.uk

As lovely as it may sound, it is impractical to run in baggy joggers. Fortunately, these Kalenji jogging tights are designed to insulate your legs from the cold, while encouraging maximum breathability. With two separate zip pockets and no seam between the legs to prevent chafing, these tights just might have it all. decathlon.co.uk

If you are going to splash out on anything, make it the outer shell. If you get this right, then the rest is just layering. The Gore R3 jacket is super lightweight, windproof, waterproof, comfortable to wear and totally breathable.

Even on the coldest and wettest days, this jacket is an insurance policy against excuses. millets.co.uk

Buff Neckwear If you have never worn a Buff, you are missing out on a highly versatile bit of kit. The Original Buff neck scarf is a seamless, stretchy tube of fabric that is so lightweight, you forget you’re wearing it. It keeps your neck warm but not hot, and when the weather gets really foul, you can pull it up over your mouth and ears to avoid wind burn. buffwear.co.uk

W

hen it comes to transforming your body, many believe that weight loss is the sole objective. But there are many other facets to consider, like improving your fitness, tightening up loose skin, and reducing cellulite to name a few.

Fit & Skin Studio treats every client as an individual, creating a bespoke plan to help sculpt the body you’ve always wanted.

A tailored plan from Fit & Skin Studio unites state of the art treatments with enhanced exercise programs, so you can achieve maximum results in a short time. Therapies like HiFu, cavitation, underwater massage and cryotherapy work to increase collagen levels, improve your skin’s appearance, relieve pain, and re-shape your figure through targeted fat reduction. Combined with ExoBody600 fitness classes, you will find that you are able to generate positive change without becoming a slave to an unrealistic diet or workout programme.

Whether you are looking to lose weight, get your pre-baby body back, remove unwanted scars, make your skin look younger or speed up the recovery from an injury - whatever stands between you

Before

After (7 weeks later)

and the body you dream of, a personalised body transformation plan from Fit & Skin Studio will address the things that are holding you back so you start seeing results in as little as three weeks.

440 Union Street, Aberdeen AB10 1TR Tel: 01224 959800 fitandskin studio

22 | DAVID LLOYD

WWW.FERGUSANDGLOVER.CO.UK

HEALTHY & HAPPY

Encourage a more youthful appearance

At Fergus & Glover we provide treatments to keep your smile happy and healthy. With a focus on preventative dentistry and hygienist services alongside a full range of cosmetic treatments to give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

• HYGIENIST TREATMENTS • DENTAL IMPLANTS • TOOTH WHITENING • PREVENTATIVE DENTISTRY

GDC REGISTRATION 68811 & 68869

• INVISALIGN

• Plasma fibroblast • Dermapen • Dermaplaning • Millia treatment • Skin tag removal The New Lanterns, Garioch Road, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire AB51 4RQ Tel: 07885 760084 aestheticbeautyinverurie

GET YOUR FESTIVE ON

Style Bar - 30 minutes - £30 Pimp your look with accessories Scandi Chic Leather hair ties available in salon now!

160 UNION ST ABERDEEN AB10 1QT T: 01224 644876

18-20 Netherkirkgate Aberdeen AB10 1AU Tel: 01224 641664 lintonandmac.com

24 | IN-BRIEF

Shelley is crowned Beauty Queen at Society Awards

Huntly Framer’s to stay open following pleas from community An art gallery and framing shop in Huntly has announced it will stay open after its owner, Mark Gask, received numerous supportive calls from the community. Opened in 1995, Huntly Framer’s announced on 19 May that it would close. Mark has had support from Business Gateway and now plans to rebrand as Huntly Gallery.

Leading permanent make-up and brow artist, Shelley Milne Brows and Beauty, was crowned the winner of the Beauty Award of the Year at the inaugural Society Awards. Shelley was commended by the judges for her growing client list, great product knowledge and keeping ahead of the trends by evolving her service offering. shelleymilnebrowsandbeauty.com

D

o you have areas of your body that you’d like to change?

Treat Company in Inverallochy has just become the first salon in Scotland to offer treatments with two brand new machines which can transform problem areas using ultrasound.

The 3D HIFU tabletop is a powerful tool which works on tightening and lifting sagging skin such as in the brow, neck and jawline areas. The procedure causes minimal pain and as there is no downtime, you can be back on track the same day.

The 3D Lipo Ultimate Pro treatments focus more on the body, addressing bingo wings and muffin tops, as well as bottom, abdomen and thigh areas. The specialist attachments can address fat reduction, cellulite and skin tightening, fat melting and body sculpting.

Both machines offer a safe and affordable alternative to surgery, and are tailored to suit each individual, with a choice of full treatments and treatments broken down into sections of either face or body. Brenda and her team are highly qualified and fully trained in each treatment and carry out consultations both prior to your visit and before you start each treatment. 3d-lipo.co.uk/press

7 Cairndenity Place, Inverallochy nr. Fraserburgh AB43 8TD Tel: 01346 583365 TreatCompanyFamily

IN-BRIEF | 25

New North-east award for sustainability

Mackie’s Managing Director, Mac Mackie. Mackies’s 19.2 won the award for the Best Food & Drink Tourism Experience in 2019. Photo credit: Simon Price, First Pix

The annual North East Scotland Food & Drink Awards 2020 have launched a new category for sustainability. The Awards comprise 14 award categories, and are free to enter for all food and drink producers based in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray. The awards have seen many worthy winners, such as Mackie’s of Scotland, Dean’s, Donald Russell, and Summerhouse Drinks. Entries should be made via nesfoodanddrinkawards.co.uk - closing date is Monday 20 January 2020.

Cosy up with @hamishmunro If you’re looking for a warm, weatherproof but stylish jacket this winter, check out the Ilse Jacobsen range at Something For Me, @hamishmunro’s online store.

The Danish designer’s rain jackets combine Nordic practicality with a rainbow of colour options. The breathable soft shell fabric comes with an Eco Repel coating and taped seams, so it withstands even a torrential downpour.

You’ll also find a great selection of Ilse’s jeans, backpacks, footwear and slippers also available online.

Cosy and comfortable, with an effortless Danish design edge.

19 - 25 Thistle Street, AB10 1UY Tel: 01224 641388 something-for-me.co.uk

Shelley Milne, Aberdeen’s leading permanent make-up specialist Free consultation and booking available online

4 Garthdee Farm Gardens T. 07710 735671 shelleymilnebrowsandbeauty.com

26 | NY SKIN CLINIC

NY Skin Clinic

exclusive treatments for superb skin Although it has just been open for a couple of months, NY Skin Clinic on Fonthill Road is already Clinical Director, Elaine Wood, has over two proving popular with both women decades of nursing experience, specialising in and men in search of an effective clinical aesthetic treatments, so is exceptionally solution to problem skin or who knowledgeable. Elaine explained, ‘Having just want to look better. suffered with my own skin issues for many years, I tried just about every product imaginable as well as medicine and ointments from the doctor.

None of them worked and were either temporary solutions, or just masked the problem. So I researched treatments and technology which would get to the root cause and bring real healing and rejuvenation.

‘With NY Skin Clinic, I’ve been able to realise my dream of providing the very best available skin care technology treatments at affordable prices yet maintaining a focus on individual client care. It’s about clinical excellence in a friendly and relaxed setting. If anyone understands the difference good skin can make to someone’s self-confidence and self-esteem, it’s me!

‘We offer several treatments that aren’t available elsewhere in the region, such as our multi award winning Dermalux LED Phototherapy treatments.

Dermalux LED is a non-invasive pain free aesthetic treatment which harnesses the power of light to visibly rejuvenate and refine the skin, improving skin tone, hydration and radiance.

‘Our laser treatment options offer the latest, clinically proven cutting-edge technology. They are used by top Harley Street dermatologists and offer natural long-term enhancements to the face and body at a fraction of the cost of surgery and with no down time.

‘The Morpheus8 Laser is the first and only device to mould the fat sub-dermally in order to morph the ageing facial features into a more youthful appearance.

This cutting edge treatment is a perfect way to tone and tighten skin without any down time.

‘Our Forma Laser is used to provide a non-surgical facelift. The results speak for themselves. Our Lumecca Laser treatments offer a superior way to improve skin complexion, reduce pigmentation melasma and skin irregularities and look years younger. We also offer Diolaze hair removal laser treatment. It’s quick, easy, painless and effective.

‘Of course, we don’t just offer laser treatments. Our anti-wrinkle Injections and fillers are very popular, due to their fast acting and with some treatments, immediate, results.

‘At NY Skin Clinic, our goal is to help each client achieve the improvement they want to see. Each client is assessed individually, with careful consideration of their concerns and expectations. Their skin condition, medical history and suitability for the treatments on offer are a part of every assessment and all are carried out in accordance with our strict codes of practice. NY Skin Clinic is assessed, approved and regulated by Health Improvement Scotland.

‘We also offer a range of prescription skin care products. These include the ZO range which can transform facial skin over a six week period and work in perfect harmony with all the treatments we have on offer. We also offer A/Q Therapeutics range of skincare products for a variety of skincare and hair loss concerns. AQ uses bioidentical growth factors. They supplement what the body can no longer produce by itself, stimulating the body’s repair and rejuvenation process. In essence, AQ’s products help the body to turn back time’.

92 Fonthill Road, AB11 6UL Tel: 01224 593777 nyskinclinic.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENTS | 27

Ama off all tr zing 20% ea voucher tments and s inc Anti-Wr inkle Inje luding ctio Decemb er & Jan ns for uary Op en 10-4 & Friday Monday, Tuesda , 11-8 We y & Thursd dnesday 12-4 Satu ay, rdays

Four treatment rooms over two levels

28 | BEAUTY

B O B B I B R OW N Love Me in the Afternoon Palette

L AU RA M E R CIE R Cheek Canvas Palette

the best makeup looks to take you into spring words by Shanay Taylor

BEAUTY | 29

TOM FORD two-tiered cream & powder eye colour

2020 is all about achieving a barely-there makeup look. Trend’s Shanay Taylor popped off to John Lewis in search of the latest ideas…

The start of a new decade brings the opportunity to restock your makeup bag and update your look. Chuck out that ancient mascara and the eyeshadow you’ve had since you were fourteen. Out with the old and in with the fabulous!

The smoky eye is being replaced with a natural nude look. Invest in Tom Ford’s two-tiered cream and powder eye colour (£50). Opt for Cool taupe and Sparkle White Reflection or Warm Golden Cream and Chocolate powder with gold pearl.

It’s a look that works for day time or you can build the colour for a night out.

Alternatively, the always-reliable Bobbi Brown’s Love Me in the Afternoon Palette (£29.20) offers eight versatile nude eye shadows in matte, metallic and chrome metal finishes.

TO M FORD

Blusher is making a comeback, so go for a naturally rosy glow. Tom Ford’s Soleil Glow Stick (£42) has a wonderfully creamy texture that instantly brightens and enhances cheek bones.

Soleil Glow Stick

Laura Mercier’s Cheek Canvas Cheek Palette (£36) has six limited-edition soft pink tones that will sculpt the face and leave you glowing all day long.

C H A RLOT T E T I LB URY Wonderglow Primer C LINI QUE Redness Solutions Mineral Pressed Powder

For most of us, achieving a no-makeup makeup look needs some help. Try Charlotte Tilbury’s Wonderglow Primer (£39), which leaves your skin looking dewy and feeling nourished or head to the Clinique counter and pick up their calming Redness Solutions Mineral Pressed Powder (£21.60), which evens out skin tone with just a sprinkle.

Get your glow on for 2020.

All products available at johnlewis.com

Ted Bak e Bracele r dress £229 ts £16 Carvela Ted Bak heels £69 e All Joh r clutch £109 n Lewis

nson ight Ma Fenn Wr £18 t Bracele Lewis n All Joh

229 dress £

son t Man Wrigh Fenn £199 son dress right Man W n n e F 9 t £19 jacke ce £18 a l k c Ne ewis ohn L All J

25 cket £2 suit ja user £135 r e g e a o J suit tr Jaeger e clutch £85 l l i v u Nea t £16 Bracele £24 e c a Neckl n Lewis All Joh earrings £20 e l Beauel

Jigsaw t Reiss s op £79 k Ted Bak irt £225 e Beauell r bag £129 al e earri l ngs £20 John Lewis

Fenn Wright Manson jack £199 John et Lewis Part Two Co pe nh ag en Jumpsuit £1 HÖGL heels 09.95 Nour London £155 @hamishmun necklace £30 ro

£189 s dress Whistle ket £295 c Hush ja tch £60 u Dune cl earrings £20 e Beauell

LAY ER ED T

here are two ways of keeping out the cold at this time of year. You can either opt for a bulky all-enveloping duvet-style padded coat, or take the more elegant approach with layered pieces that provide a more streamlined silhouette while still providing warmth.

Thin layers in toning shades work well, but it’s advisable to stick with natural fibres if you are prone to static shocks. Caramel and camel tones flatter most skin tones, but head to toe black can be a little draining, so mix it up with whites or pastel shades or a slick of bright lipstick. Look for long leather or suede block heeled boots, thin and chunkier knits, cotton or cashmere long sleeved t-shirts, mid length skirts and trousers in wool fabrics. Add scarves and gloves which offer pattern or an eye-catching embellishment. Pile it on, top it with a shearling gilet or faux fur and you’re good to go…

FASHION EDIT | 37

© Hobbs

© Oliver Bonas © Fat Face

© Betty Barclay © Oliver Bonas

© Laura Ashley © Debenhams © Hobbs

a floatation experience at aberdeen’s urban wellness hub

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Fancy starting 2020 feeling serene, reinvigorated and even jumpstarting your January detox with a floatation experience at the Urban Wellness Hub in Bridge of Don? The hub boasts Scotland’s only custom-built float room, allowing your body and mind to destress in a weightless environment. Floating aids sleep, alleviates physical tension, decreases cortisol stress hormone levels and heightens the senses. It’s great for mindfulness practice, increasing endorphins and soothing pain.

We have three float experiences to give away. Our winner will receive a three float package and two runners up will receive a single session package.

To enter, go to trendmagazine.co.uk and answer this question:

Where is the Urban Wellness Hub located?

Urban Wellness Hub 6 Balgownie Dr, Bridge of Don, AB22 8FD Tel: 07488 385013 urbanwellnessfloat.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENTS | 39

EVERYBODY NEEDS THEIR OWN SPACE

© Essential home

© Dowsing & Reynolds

MENS EDIT | 41

© Atkin & Thyme

© Dowsing & Reynolds

© Cult Furniture

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Go for dark, but not Stygian, colours, look for defined lines and pared back styles. Get a sofa you can really stretch out on and a throw to snuggle under. Set up the room so you have everything you need, whether it’s a high spec gaming set up, a bar, bookshelves, turntable or other masculine essentials. No frills, no fripperies, no disturbingly perky slogan posters and not a scatter cushion in sight…

© Audenza

© Sonos © Bazaar Group

© Sweetpea & Willow

NO FRILLS, NO FRIPPERIES

© Sweetpea & Willow

place to retreat from the world, escape from the children, catch up on some reading, play Red Dead Redemption, enjoy a whisky or just snooze peacefully. It might be a shed or garden room, a man cave, a den, a converted attic or just a spare bedroom turned to better use.

42 | CHEF FOCUS

Meet Malmaison’s Steven Urquhart We caught up with Mal’s Head Chef, Steven Urquhart, a man who is just a little obsessed with the perfect steak…

‘I’m a Liverpool lad who has worked all over the world. My favourite was a mountain-top hotel in Austria, where I could spend my spare time on the slopes.

‘My wife’s from Stonehaven. Now that we have three children, most of my spare time is spent with them, watching our eldest son play football, or very occasionally sneaking off for a meal with my wife.

‘I love the team at Mal, particularly working alongside young chefs, encouraging and developing their skills. We get to work with great fresh ingredients every day and our popular seasonal menus keep it fun and interesting for our chefs and our diners.

‘I’ve shared my recipe for the perfect steak.

Although, I think if I could only eat one dish for the whole year, I’d go for our Daube of Beef which is served with roast celeriac purée, glazed shallot & onion ring, from our new à la carte menu. The meat melts in your mouth’.

Malmaison. Queens Road, Aberdeen Tel: 01224 507097 malmaison.com

CHEF FOCUS | 43

PRIME RIB 2 prime rib steaks 450g each Remove any packaging and let the steaks stand for ten minutes.

Rub the steak on both sides with olive oil, season with Maldon sea salt and black pepper. Rub with cut fresh garlic and thyme, Heat a heavy based pan or griddle until hot. Fry the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, turning frequently, then rest on a plate for two minutes. Add the juices from the plate and a knob of butter to the pan, then pour over the steak.

ONION RINGS An onion 250g gluten-free self-raising flour 1 bottle of Heineken and a splash cold water if needed 15g table salt Pour the beer into a bowl containing the flour and salt, leave to stand for ten minutes. Whisk and leave in fridge for an hour before use. Check the batter consistency. If too thick, add a little water.

Slice the onion into 1cm thick slices, pop out the middle and dip the larger outer rings into the batter.

Fry at 1700 -1800C. Place on paper towel and re-fry at 1800C until crisp and golden. Dry on paper towels again and season with sea salt just before serving.

CONFIT TOMATOES 100g baby vine tomatoes Snip the tomato vines into sections of four or five tomatoes. Place on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Cook at 900C for 10-30 minutes until just softened.

FAT CUT CHIPS 20 fat cut chips Cut potatoes into jenga shapes, steam or boil for 12 minutes, drain and cool.

Blanch the chips in a deep fat fryer at 1400C until soft, but not too coloured.

Refry at 1800C until crisp and golden just before serving, season.

Plate up and enjoy.

TREND TRIES | 45

Quarter House Bar and Grill is prominently placed front and centre in the new Hilton Aberdeen TECA hotel

words by Courtney O’Grady

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uarter House Bar and Grill is prominently placed front and centre in the new Hilton Aberdeen TECA hotel. The stylish but comfortable décor makes it equally suitable for a pre-concert dinner or for an evening of drinks with friends. The extensive drinks menu includes many of the old classics alongside some exciting gin cocktails. Three of us visited on a Tuesday night and I was immediately impressed by the popularity of the QH Burger, which seemed to adorn every occupied table. The menu has something for everyone, but the real star of the show is the Grill section, which features a dizzying array of Scottish meat, with a 30-ounce Tomahawk steak headlining the bill.

We started with chargrilled sourdough, heritage tomato and the QH Salad, which could surely be classified as superfood with its avocado, quinoa, pomegranate seeds and fresh rocket.

My husband couldn’t resist and opted for the 8-ounce Aberdeen Angus sirloin, which he reported was cooked to perfection and splendidly complemented by the peppercorn sauce. My daughter selected the grilled fillet of salmon, with its beautifully crisped skin and a smattering of samphire, and I chose the vegetarian risotto which had a lovely cheese sauce and tasty cubes of butternut squash. We shared a selection of sides, with the highlight being the sea salt cavolo nero, a relative of kale and a first for me. Sadly, we did not save room for dessert, but we will be back to try the deep-fried Mars bar with Irn Bru ice cream.

EAST BURN ROAD, STONEYWOOD, ABERDEEN AB21 9FX TEL: 01224 984111

Roses are red, violets are blue, Show you care and book a table for two!

Always a sell out so book now! Valentines lunch & dinner packages all week from Wed 12th - Sun 16th Feb 2020

48 | VALENTINO’S

Valentino’s Bar & Restaurant

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berdeen’s latest restaurant, Valentino’s, brings traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist in the heart of the Granite city.

Every dish is bursting with flavour, ranging from the homely pasta dishes to the beautifully cooked fish dishes.

exquisite alternatives available to satisfy every individual taste on the à la carte.

Priding themselves on being a dog friendly bar and a family orientated restaurant, Valentino’s provides a welcoming ambiance to all who walk through their doors.

For Hogmanay there is an excellent set menu competitively priced, which includes a glass of fizz for the bells.

Whether it be a business Christmas lunch or dinner, friends meeting for a cocktail, or a family celebratory meal, Valentino’s is the perfect place and will cater for all.

The festive menu includes of course traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings, for those who are more adventurous and want to break from the traditional dishes there are

The lunch menu features a selection of lighter dishes with great deals all around.

The wine list is pleasingly cosmopolitan, drawn from Europe (mostly Italy) and South America including a couple of top Champagnes.

Scottish baking meets with typical Italian sweet cakes?

In the warmer months, you can take advantage of the Italian vibe by eating on the roof terrace. The restaurant is great for groups or romantic meals.

Treat your special loved one on Valentines Day to a 3 course meal along with a glass of fizz to celebrate.

You may purchase gift vouchers in the restaurant or over the phone.

‘Stir like an assassin’ is the motto when it comes to training their bar staff in the art of mixology.

In January why not spoil yourself with a traditional Sunday roast or an Afternoon Tea where traditional

70 Carden Place, AB10 1UL Tel: 01224 625577 valentinositalianrestaurant.co.uk

ORCHID | 49

Suzanne Carry, Lynne Judge, Julie Sharp, Jenny Strachan

Kerry Sutherland, Donna Petrie

Anoushka Frain, Mamie Henderson, Natalie Carter, Lisa Mcpherson, Ruth Macdonald

Trend Fashion Lunch Pat Barclay, Rosemary Stewart, Joyce Sproul, Linda Edwards

Diane Mckechnie, Aileen Robertson, Sarah Manby

Debbie Mcfarlane, Vicky Garden, Dez Young

Michelle Herd, Danielle Flecher-Herd, Liz Thomson

WHO: Trend Magazine Fashion Lunch WHAT: Trend held it’s hugely popular second fashion lunch of the year at Malmaison Aberdeen and this time were delighted to support new Aberdeen charity, Abernecessities. Guests heard all about the charity from Dani Fletcher-Herd and were entertained by MC Jeff Burns from Fifth Dimension who also provided close up magic for the guests. Fashions were supplied from @hamishmunro, Tiger Lily Boutique, Country Ways and Perfect Bridal Rooms.

Angela Wright, Elspeth Watson, Michelle Byrne, Jenny Byrne, Susan Caldwell

WHERE: Malmaison Hotel

Hilary Dow, Aileen Longino, Hayley Macleod

Sarah Thake, Judy Alexander

Jill Glennie, Louise Donald, Wendy Bannister

Denise Stephen, Vicky Taylor, Mandy Ballingall, Heather Andrade, Lisa Fowlie, Karen Bedawi, Yhana Pirie, Elaine Tait

Sharon Armour, Iris Forbes

Carol Clark, Louise Calder, Fiona Pirie

Jan Mattison, Leah Cranney, Denise Mcniven

Alison Kinghorn, Sharon Allan, Sheila Strathie

Parkinson’s UK Afternoon Tea Erin Clark, Dana Warren, Mandy Warren Kaye Smith, Jan Caldwell, Dianne Sinclair

WHO: Over a hundred generous, glamorous ladies gathered at the Marcliffe for Parkinson’s UK Ladies' Afternoon Tea on 3 November.

WHAT: Guests were entertained by Abba A-Rival Duo and host Ian Thain was delighted to be in such charming company. The event raised more than £6500 for the charity. Next year’s event is already planned for Sunday 1 November 2020.

WHERE: The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa

Heather Kirk, Hannah Garlick

Wendy Skinner, Kim Walton, Elaine Smith

Ella Dunn, Elaine Mckay

Rebecca Ratcliffe, Natasha Gellatly, Helen Ratcliffe

Heather Donald, Morag Thorn, Sally Bedisford

IN-BRIEF | 53

Office move for Aberdeen Cooling Solutions Aberdeen Cooling Solutions, which provides repair, installation and maintenance services, has moved to dedicated office, workshop and storage space in Dyce, following its launch earlier this year. The business has moved from Waterloo Quay to the Airside Business Park in Westhill. MD Ryan Pirie has been joined by his father Stephen as office manager, and AC engineer George Morrison, taking the team to five.

ADVERTISEMENTS | 55

Making sure you are on the Right Road, Right Driveway, Right Patio and Right Path • Driveways • Roads • Paving • Kerbing • Tarmac

• Lock Block • Patios • Resinbound • Drainage • Groundworks

Buttercup Brae, Hillhead Kincardine O’ Neil Aberdeenshire AB34 5AU Tel: 013398 84119 Email: admin@drc.scot deeside road construction

www.drc.scot

Eat on the Green’s Craig Wilson on the perfect end to a meal...

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good cheeseboard is the most civilised end to any dinner. It’s always popular, tastes great and there’s very little effort involved.

Choose generous portions of artisan cheeses. Try a soft creamy brie or a gooey baked camembert, then add your favourite cheddar, a soft cheese, a goat’s cheese, maybe Devenick Dairy’s Badentoy Blue and add a local favourite.

Another cheese to look out for and a favourite of mine is a vegan cheese from the Isle of Bute.

Personally, I go for Auld Lochnagar

from the Cambus O’May Cheese Company.

Look for cheeses that are suitable for vegetarians and perhaps include a vegan version. Add chutneys, relishes, dips, sweet and savoury biscuits, crackers, savoury pastries, breads, oatcakes, fresh fruit, fruitcake or even chocolate.

Pair your selections with port or a fruity gin liqueur. Simple, easy and amazing.

Google some background facts about each cheese and turn it into a fun trivia quiz. The loser does the dishes!

56 | ADVERTISEMENTS

O

rchid celebrated its 10th birthday on November 1st by hosting a private party for the people who have helped cement the cocktail bar into not only one of Aberdeen's top venues but Scotland too.

At the start of the birthday week, they released a throwback cocktail menu with 6 iconic cocktails from over the 10 years where £1 of every one sold went to SAMH charity. On the night the venue along with the guests managed to raise over £1,000 pounds for the charity.

Ingredients 50ml Flor de Cana 7yr 7.5ml Lustau Pedro Ximenez Sherry 15ml Toasted Marshmallow syrup 2 dash Boker's Bitters

The Campfire Classic is a twist on a classic Old Fashioned. The added sweetness of the toasted marshmallow syrup and PX sherry helps make the drink much more accessible, and reminds us of huddling around a fire on a cold winter's night. orchidaberdeen.com

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GIVE YOUR HOME A NATURAL FEEL

with wood this winter

It’s a robust material that lends itself to everything from bleached Nordic tones to richly panelled studies, via dramatic beds, streamlined home offices, cosy family kitchens and zen-like bathrooms. Wood fits any mood.

If the budget will stretch, consider a bespoke piece from a local maker which will give joy for decades to come, or splurge a little on a few accent pieces to bring your interiors up to date. Wood is warm and tactile, reconnecting us with our natural environment and bringing a sense of sylvan serenity to any room.

01 © Cuckooland.com / 02 © Cuckooland.com / 03 © Cuckooland.com / 04 © Homesense / 05 © Cuckooland.com 06 © Cult Furniture / 07 © Homesense / 08 © Oak Furniture Land / 09 © John Lewis / 10 © Cult Furniture

Glad Rags bags five years of exclusive shoots Ladies’ shooting club Glad Rags and Cartridge Bags celebrated its 5th birthday in November with a dinner, overnight stay and a clay shoot at Raemoir House near Banchory. Glad Rags is a roving syndicate which holds events at various exclusive venues throughout the North-east, welcoming ladies at every level from beginners to improvers and experienced.

L-R Graeme McCaw (DoubleTree by Hilton Treetops), Ron McKail (Deputy Provost of Aberdeenshire), Charles Skene (Skene Group), Barney Crockett (Lord Provost of Aberdeen) and Brett Jackson (Granite PR).

Ninth Granite Expo celebrates North-east business A celebration of North-east business has taken place in Aberdeen for the ninth consecutive year - and plans are already in place to mark the tenth anniversary in 2020.

The theme of the Granite Expo was “Don’t be scared to grow your

business” in recognition of its Halloween date. New for 2019 was a wellness zone which featured a range of exhibitors who focus on physical, mental and emotional health. The date for Granite Expo 2020 is 29 October.

COUNTRY WAYS | 61

Keep cosy with

Keenan Recycling has a green outlook for England Scotland’s largest organic waste recycling company has reported that it will achieve a turnover of £10 million, just over 12 months after expanding into England. The company reduces the amount of waste going to landfill by processing more than 100,000 tonnes of organic waste a year and turning it into compost or generating electricity. Initially set up as a garden composting business in Aberdeenshire in 2001, Keenan Recycling launched its commercial food waste collection services in Scotland in 2009.

Save the date for Action Ladies Lunch with Brian Capron The date for next year’s Action Medical Research for Children lunch at The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa is s Thursday 12 March 2020. The speaker will be TV and theatre actor Brian Capron whose TV credits include Grange Hill, Coronation Street and Eastenders. Tickets can be secured from maggieatchison@mac.com or 01224 310562

Visit Country Ways on Holburn Street this Christmas for a wide range of lifestyle clothing for men and women.

Choose from Barbour cosy quilts and Holebrook of Sweden windproof jumpers to Fairfax & Favor or Dubarry footwear with matching accessories. There’s lots to choose from for your ‘Dear Santa’ list this season.

115 Holburn Street, Aberdeen countryways.com

62 | ADVERTISEMENTS

n e d r a g r u o y t u p g n i e Hav m i t s ’ t i , r a e y s i h t r ! t x e to bed fo n r o f g n i n n a l p t to star ty McLean

irs words by K

M

arch and April brings the beginning of the new season and this means clearing away the winter debris, pruning plants that flower from July to October and are deciduous, such as buddleja, fuchsia, hydrangea paniculata, spirea japonica; and feeding borders with a good slow release organic fertiliser, such as fish blood and bone or poultry manure pellets and mulching! Whether it’s spent mushroom compost, seaweed or bark chippings, this will help to reduce weeds (or make them easier to pluck out), seal in moisture and as it breaks down, provide extra structure to the soil.

But now is also the opportunity to plan new borders and revamp old ones, or extend existing areas of your garden.

I’m often told that this can be quite overwhelming so here are a few tips to help.

1. ACCESS

Access the space that you want to develop.

What are the attributes and challenges sunny, shaded, sheltered, windy, small, large, raised, ground level, rich soil, clay, sandy?

©Shutterstock/By Halfpoint

2. DECIDE

Decide what would you like to grow - vegetables, herbaceous plants to encourage wildlife, ornamental evergreen and deciduous shrubs?

ADVERTISEMENTS | 63

3. INVESTIGATE

Investigate the needs of these choices and examine whether or not the conditions are going to support them? Or do it the other way around perhaps? My border is a sheltered and sunny one, which plants like these conditions?

4. PLAN IT.

Having established roughly what you are going to grow, the next stage is to plan it out.

There are various ways to approach this and nowadays there are quite a few online tools at your disposal. However, if that is not for you then graph paper is very helpful. 1cm = 1 square metre should work for most garden areas unless very large. Measure out the area to be developed and map this onto your graph paper.

Now you can start to plot your preferred scheme onto the plan. It’s best to do this to the mature size of whatever it is you are growing so you can see how your grown up garden might look. It is very easy to fall in love with a small plant in the garden centre only to find that it grows to 2m x 2m! There is a huge amount of support online where you can get advice on what grows to what size and many books available on the subject.

If you are developing the shape of an area or border for the garden, I suggest that you mark it out using string and garden canes or rope so that you can visually confirm the shape and size you want and see how this fits in with everything else, then plot this onto your graph paper and begin.

5. TIMING.

Once you have got your plan together, it’s a case of doing some research to find out the best time of year to plant your chosen species and root types.

For instance, in the case of hedging such as beech or hornbeam, this can be planted between November and end of March/ beginning of April, when bare root plants are available and much cheaper than container.

Evergreen varieties are often available as root ball plants at the same time of year as bare root.

Trees and shrubs grown in pots can be planted at any time of the year providing the ground isn’t solid, too wet or temperatures too low. It’s better to carry this out in autumn or winter as they require less watering than those planted in spring or summer.

6. BUY IT.

Now you are ready to develop your plant schedule or shopping list and decide how you are going to go about sourcing the plants.

Good local garden centres are invaluable because they will have carried out some level of research to ensure they stock suitable plants for the general area, and they often have very experienced and knowledgeable staff who can advise you. This doesn’t mean that you don’t have to research the suitability of your choices.

7. AFTER CARE.

Having everything in place, you can now create a diary to include such information as when to water, when to feed, prune etc., and general aftercare.

8. RECORD IT.

Take photos. Taking photos of the ‘before’ and at regular intervals will really help you see the overall progress and could also help you to learn what you might do differently or change, which is what gardening is all about.

It’s not an exact science, there is rarely just one way to do anything and if you get it wrong, you won’t be alone!

64 | BALFOUR + MANSON

We can help with your compensation claim

B

alfour+Manson’s Carden Place office is headed up by litigation partner Julie Clark-Spence.

Julie explained, ‘We offer a personal service to our clients. We listen and provide guidance during what is undoubtedly a traumatic and incredibly difficult time in our client’s lives. We understand that no two cases are the same and we pride ourselves on the personal service we offer. Our desire to maximise compensation for our clients is at the heart of everything we do.’

Julie and her team have considerable experience in acting for clients who have been injured in accidents.

They have a supportive approach combined with an in-depth understanding of the industries local to Aberdeen. They regularly act on behalf of individuals who have been injured in accidents at work, offshore and in road traffic accidents.

The Granite City office has developed vast experience in dealing with complex and high value cases arising out of accidents in the UK and abroad. The firm has been involved in some of the highest profile cases over the years such as Piper Alpha, the Lockerbie bombing, RAF accidents and offshore helicopter ditchings.

Julie and her team also represent individuals who have been injured as a result of medical negligence and advise clients on cases arising out of injuries at birth, delayed diagnosis of cancer, cosmetic surgery and dentistry.

The team also advise on compensation claims for clients who have been physically or mentally injured because they were the victim of a violent crime.

Balfour+Manson are here to help. We offer a free initial consultation.

42 Carden Place, Aberdeen, AB10 1UP Tel: 01224 498080 balfour-manson.co.uk

Abernecessities Manager Michelle Herd and thinkers LeighAnn Rogie, Jeannie Price

Thinking about digital inheritance and welcoming back a well-known face Whether or not you already have a will and a power of attorney, it may be time to talk to The Law Practice about digital inheritance.

‘So many of us have digital assets, rather than paper documents. Share certificates, subscriptions, memberships, online bank accounts and investments as well as bill accounts may be entirely online’, Lesley McKnight explained. ‘It’s crucial to have the right Will and Power of Attorney to empower your executor with the correct information, preventing complications, disappointed beneficiaries, additional costs and unnecessary delay’.

To find out more about wills, powers of attorney and digital inheritance please contact Lesley McKnight, Solicitor.

We are delighted to announce the return of Margaret Waldron to The Law Practice as Business Development Manager. Margaret formerly owned the business and is looking forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and meeting new clients alike.

3 Rubislaw Terrace, Aberdeen AB10 1XE Tel: 01224 562870

Think about helping

S

ome of the think team took time out of their busy schedule last week to roll their sleeves up and pitch in practically at the HQ of locally based charity Abernecessities - all part of the PR and marketing agency’s ongoing commitment to giving something back and making a positive contribution to the community.

Set up in March 2019, Abernecessities aims to provide essentials for struggling families with children aged from 0 - 12.

Support has been immense and the response to appeals for clothing, toiletries and equipment overwhelming, so think was put to work sorting through some of the many bags of donated items.

Under the direction of the regular volunteers, and with much ‘oo-ing’ and ‘ah-ing’ at some of the cute baby items, think paired shoes, sifted through clothing for much needed winter wear and sorted donations for sizing.

Touched by the heartwarming stories of children who have already benefited from the charity’s support throughout the city and shire, the team was delighted to help and some even took bags of donations home for washing - another valuable way in which people can give a helping hand.

For more information about how you can help Abernecessities, contact Danielle@abernecessities. co.uk or Michelle@ abernecessities.co.uk

Merry Christmas & HAPPY NEW YEAR

Strong Values. Trusted Advice. Wealth of Knowledge.

At VT Wealth, our genuine passion to help our clients achieve financial wellbeing whilst protecting the things that matter to them the most, is what we do best.

VT WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD For more information or to chat to one of our advisers, visit us at our offices at 1 Marischal Square and Fraserburgh, call us on 01224 034213 / 01346 518777, email us at vee.thom@sjpp.co.uk or visit our website at vtwealth.co.uk

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

VT Wealth Management Ltd is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The 'St. James's Place Partnership' and the titles 'Partner' and 'Partner Practice' are marketing terms used to describe St. James's Place representatives.

IN-BRIEF | 69

Aileen Merchant, the recently appointed managing director of Stonehouse Lettings]

Stonehouse leads the way for new rental solution Stonehouse Lettings, the Aberdeen-based letting agent and property management company, is offering a new way for people in the North-east to rent a property without the substantial outlay of paying a deposit. Called Reposit, renters are charges a non-refundable service charge equivalent to a week’s rent. This is instead of the standard one month’s rent in advance and another for a deposit. The landlord is insured for any additional payments needed at the end of the rental agreement. For more info contact aileen.merchant@stonehouseproperty.co.uk

New markets for garden design firm Garden design & landscaping firm, Papillon, hopes to tap into new markets following the launch of a new website. Papillon is the only garden design firm to offer design-throughconstruction services in the North-east and now, it will bolster this by selling a range of garden furniture and outdoor living products.

The new website shows a selection of pieces. papillonlandscape.co.uk

70 | IN-BRIEF

Deeside Holiday Park named Best Holiday Park Deeside Holiday Park has been named Best Holiday Park at this year’s Scottish Outdoor Leisure Awards. The park, which has been owned by the Wood family for over 10 years was devastated

by Storm Frank in winter 2015. Wood Leisure have invested more than £3 million in new accommodation and facilities at Deeside since the flood damage.

Kirsty Leiper, one of the event judges, presents Engage PR’s James Donaldson with the gold accolade for Outstanding Independent Practitioner at the CIPR Scotland PRide Awards 2019 in Glasgow. Picture: Ian Georgeson

Engage PR wins gold Queen’s Terrace-based Engage PR is celebrating after winning at the prestigious CIPR Scotland PRide Awards 2019. James Donaldson, director at the communications agency, won the gold accolade for Outstanding Independent Practitioner at the Scottish PRide Awards ceremony, at the Radisson Blu in Glasgow.

Top Burns entertainers to perform at Hearts of Gold The Hearts of Gold Charity Burns Supper takes place at the Beach Ballroom on Saturday 7 February 2020, with a glittering line-up of renowned entertainers.

The event aims to raise funds for Charlie House and Rhino Revolution UK and

includes performances from fiddlers Rae Jappy and Paul Anderson, singers Shona Donaldson and Robert Lovie, and piper Pam Rotheroe-Hay. Tickets are £55, tables of 10 from charles@hendersonfinancial.co.uk

• HAIR • MAKEUP • BEAUTY

70 Great Western Road Aberdeen AB10 6PY T. 01224 573727

salon70-aberdeen.co.uk

T. 07752 383868 email: carlajanedillon@gmail.com carlajanemakeupartistry

ADVERTISEMENTS | 73

T

he festive season includes the most popular days of the year to get engaged, so January is always a busy month for us at Fairytale Events as we welcome excited couples to our new showroom to start their wedding planning journey. At the start of each year, we present our key trend predictions which help us to guide and advise brides and grooms while still retaining their own unique styles.

As we enter a new decade, 2020 has thrown up some great new themes, looks and ideas!

Sustainability We have been encouraging our couples to integrate sustainable elements into their weddings this year as we work toward principles of the circular economy within our own business. This drive for careful use of resources will increase throughout 2020 and beyond. One of the first indications of your wedding style is your invitations.

There are now several options for online invitations which remove all paper, card and wastage. You can still include your personal style on an e-card and it makes it easier for your guests to RSVP! If you can’t resist a paper invite, choose materials that have a high recycled content.

Choose seasonal flowers and food to reduce air miles and provide assurance of providence. It is easy to go plastic free without disposable cups and straws. Do think about your favours, we see so many left on tables at the end of the night, make a difference and donate to your favourite environmental charity instead.

Individualism Individuality is the order of the big day for 2020 weddings. As we are increasingly moving away from the traditional arrangements of the bride’s family paying for and organising the nuptials, couples have more freedom than ever before to bring their personalities, likes, loves and guilty pleasures rather than traditional colour schemes and bridal themes.

This has led to increasing demands to incorporate fun and quirky elements into weddings to create a day to remember, not only for the happy couple, but also for their guests. Think wedding alpacas, paper aeroplanes instead of confetti for the traditional exit shot and group activities such as laser quest or clay pigeon shooting. Anything is possible!

Flowers Trends in wedding floristry are incorporating both the sustainability and individualism trends. We are moving away from the traditional wedding flowers of ivory roses and peonies, to brides choosing their favourite colourful blooms in hot pinks and fuchsias. Flowers will be grown locally, maybe even in their own garden, in season and without floral foam, which does not breakdown in landfill sites.

This brings us to our favourite floral design elements, foliage. Fabulous botanicals and leafy greens come in a diverse range of shades, shapes, sizes and even scents and look amazing against any colours. This leads to a more informal, relaxed and natural look to your bouquet and venue styling.

Our new bespoke foliage wall brings all of these elements to life, and looks fabulous with on-trend neon lights!

Decoration In 2019 weddings were all about blush and marsala colour schemes. Although still popular for 2020, couples are now looking at creating themes around the atmospheric vibe rather than formal colour matching running throughout the ceremony and reception. This is another step away from the traditions of our parent’s

weddings towards 360o design elements of wildflower carpets, hanging pendants and floral chandeliers. Also helping to create these insta-friendly images is statement and oversized décor in the form of large wow factor centrepieces, full size trees, arches and giant lights.

Where Scottish weather permits, use the fantastic backdrop, flowers and lighting of an outside space!

Careful use of our coloured linen range can also transform table settings with coordinating shades and textures. This is about creating a sophisticated, grown up and considered look that feels fresh and current.

Bringing together this eclectic look takes a lot of skill and with well over 2000 weddings in our portfolio, you can be assured you have come to the right place!

If you’re looking for something completely different, have you considered kittens in flower crowns? Dogs acting as ring bearers? An aisle procession dance captured on video? A crowdfunded wedding? Or what about a buddymoon-a honeymoon where friends tag along?

As we always say, your wedding, your way. Whatever you choose, make it fabulous!

70 Ardarroch Road, AB24 5QS Tel: 01224 639937 fairytale.events

SHOW Join us for fabulous two-course lunch with a glass of fizz on arrival at Banchory Lodge and enjoy a fabulous fashion show from Bentleys of Banchory.

Tickets ÂŁ40 To book tickets visit: trendmagazine.co.uk

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

22 FEB

20 MAR

Gin & Jazz

Fashion Lunch

MALMAISON

MALMAISON

Come and enjoy a fabulous two-course lunch with a G&T on arrival at Malmaison’s elegant brasserie. Be treated to the sounds of local Jazz band ‘Hamlet’ and enjoy gin tastings from some of the North-east’s finest gin producers.

Come and enjoy a fabulous two-course lunch with a glass of fizz on arrival, a goodie bag and much more.

Enjoy a fabulous fashion show from some of Aberdeen’s best loved stores.

TICKETS | £40

TICKETS | £45

24 APR

19 JUN

Garden Party

Midsummer Ball

THE MARCLIFFE HOTEL & SPA

THE MARCLIFFE HOTEL & SPA

Enjoy an elegant afternoon in a beautiful venue wearing your finest attire. Champagne reception followed by a sumptuous afternoon tea.

Come along with your husbands, partners and friends to our Midsummer Ball. A champagne reception will be followed by a 3 course dinner and fabulous entertainment.

TICKETS | £56pp

TICKETS | TBC

For more information email events@trendmagazine.co.uk Why not buy a gift voucher for one of our events as a present?

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

words by Alison Daniels

I

SCOTLAND’S HIDDEN TREASURE

f you’ve never experienced Shetland, then you could be forgiven for thinking that it’s always a dark, cold, wet, treeless and barely habitable spot.

And you’d be wrong, so very, very wrong. Even in the depths of winter, Shetland has a lot going for it.

Lonely Planet’s experts ranked the islands in the top ten world destinations in 2019, praising Shetland’s rugged beauty, welcoming locals, towering cliffs, whales, otters and amazing wildlife. 2020 also marks Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters, so Shetland should definitely be on your travel radar.

Throw in some great pubs, a lively arts programme, surprisingly good restaurants that make the most of the local seafood and January’s annual Viking fire festival that puts anything on HBO to shame and it’s a great choice for a short winter or spring break.

The big winter draw is Up Helly Aa, Lerwick’s Viking Fire Festival which takes place on the final Tuesday of January each year, but preparations to make the Viking galley and fabulous costumes have been taking place for eleven months beforehand. The daylong celebration culminates in a torch-lit procession with around 900 guizers and a replica Viking ship being set ablaze, as well as songs and performances at a series of halls across Lerwick. Count yourself fortunate if you can score tickets to one of these events.

The tourist office may be able to get you on a waiting list. The Jarl’s squad are joined in procession and the evening celebrations by almost fifty male squads in fancy dress. Given the amount of cross-dressing and occasional blackface, it’s clear that political correctness hasn’t quite reached the islands yet. Previous years’ squads have been costumed as anything from Aussie drag queens to Hawaiian dancers and hotdogs. Dark nights give rise to vivid imaginations!

If you miss Up Helly Aa, many of Shetland’s villages have their own local fire festival celebrations from January through to March, so it’s worth checking with the local

tourist organisation. There’s also a fascinating exhibition where you can discover more about the festival, the guizers and the sagas which provide inspiration for their characters.

It’s open from May to September each year. Alternatively, head north to Unst which has about sixty Norse sites, including a replica Viking longship and longhouse at Haroldswick.

Lerwick is known for salted mutton, quality fish and superb seafood, but vegans and vegetarian are also well catered for.

Try Fjara, The Dowry or The String in Lerwick, the fine dining Scalloway Hotel and Da Haaf in Scalloway, or Frankie’s Fish & Chips in Brae for a seafood fix. The Peerie Shop Café in Lerwick regularly offers reestit mutton at lunchtime, alongside Cullen skink. If you’re a cooked breakfast fan, try Sassermaet, a spiced sausagemeat served in a roll with cooked onions, or as part of a fry up. Possibly a good plan if you’ve popped in to Busta the night before, where the island’s only whisky bar boasts a 225 strong selection of Scotland’s finest. Before you head home, visit Mackenzie's Farm Shop & Café to pick up some local delicacies.

Lastly, check out Shetland’s lively arts venues, Bohoga and Mareel. There’s always something interesting going on, no matter when you visit! Plan your trip at shetland.org and shetlandarts.org.

©VisitScotland / Stuart Brunton

Shetland is also a great place to see the Northern Lights on a clear winter’s night with a high level of solar particles.

There’s never any guarantee that you’ll spot the merrie dancers as they are known locally, but an outstanding display is a one-in-a-lifetime experience to treasure. If the heavens are disobliging, then head to the pub for something to warm you up again.

80 | RIGHT HERE PRODUCTIONS

RIGHT HERE PRODUCTIONS

F

rom Drag Race, to Jimmy Fallon, to TikTok, lip syncing is everywhere right now. A Marryoke video allows you to select your favourite song and create a music video that shows off all the highlights from your special day, mixing it in with your nearest and dearest miming and dancing along to your chosen track. This catchy video does a great job of capturing all the fun and happiness of the best day of your life.

draw out the best ‘performance’ from guests and encourage them to let loose and have fun!

This comes across well on camera and makes for a highly entertaining final product.

Providing a great alternative, or addition, to the traditional wedding video, Marryokes have become a highly successful offering from Right Here Productions, an Inverurie based film, theatre and entertainment business. The process starts with you selecting your song and giving your guests a heads up so they can familiarise themselves with the song. Then on the day, RHP will capture you, your families and wedding guests singing along. Thanks to our background in theatre, we find we are able to

If you would like to see examples of previous Marryoke videos, please have a look at our website.

A previous bride, Hazie, said, ‘(RHP) created the most wonderful, entertaining memento of our wedding. They managed to get the very best out of everyone for our Marryoke video without being at all intrusive.’

Office Five, Inverurie Business Hub Burghmuir Circle, Inverurie, AB51 4FS Tel: 07742343788 righthereproductions.com

A pair of tickets to On your feet at hmt

G

et ready for some Miami-Cuban beats as On Your Feet, the glorious musical which features the music of Gloria Estefan, comes to His Majesty’s this March. Each of our two winners will receive a pair of tickets for this feel-good night out. The show features many of the original West End cast and a love story takes you from Cuba, to the streets of Miami and finally to international superstardom.

The score includes many of Gloria’s biggest hits including Rhythm Is Gonna Get You, Conga, Get On Your Feet, Don’t Want To Lose You Now, Dr. Beat and 1-2-3. Add in a director, writer and choreographer with a shelf-full of Tony awards and Oscars, and you have an infectiously entertaining night out.

The show runs from 10-14 March 2020.

WIN

To enter, go to trendmagazine.co.uk and answer this question:

Where does the On Your Feet story begin?

82 | WINTER FESTIVALS

Wonderful Winter It is difficult to deny that the dark, cold days of winter can be a bit trying. words by Courtney O’Grady

W

hich is all the more reason to seek out activities full of light, warmth and the best mood lifter of all - food.

Winter Festivals are a perfect antidote to the seasonal doldrums.

©VisitScotland / Kenny Lamb

Aberdonians love winter, and it shows with their five week Christmas Village, which continues to expand each year and which

runs throughout the entire month of December in the city centre. Highlights of this festive event include the open-air ice rink, retail and food stalls, spine-chilling fairground rides and, of course, Santa’s Grotto. New for 2019 is a 9-hole Christmas Crazy Golf Course and returning after a successful 2018 introduction is the Christmas in the Quad Market, where you will find

WINTER FESTIVALS | 83

©VisitScotland / Kenny Lamb

©VisitScotland / Kenny Lamb

©VisitScotland / Kenny Lamb

Not to be outdone, Glasgow also provides plenty of reasons to celebrate this winter.

Traditional Christmas Markets take place in St. Enoch Square and George Square,

On a slightly smaller scale, Inverness hosts its Winter Wonderland in Whin Park from 13-15 December. A real festival of light, this event takes one of the darkest weekends of the year and transforms it into a twinkling sea of radiance and colour with a constantly changing light show.

Of course, winter doesn’t end because Christmas is over, so look out for Hogmanay festivals in all major cities if you want to shake off some post-holiday cobwebs and ring in the new year in style. Whatever you do, just don’t let winter defeat you.

©VisitScotland / Kenny Lamb

If you find yourself in the Scottish capital during December, the bright lights, festive music and taste bud-tingling aromas from Edinburgh’s Christmas Market are sure to lure you to East Princes Street Gardens. Get a bird’s-eye view of the festivities from atop the Big Wheel, discover the Elves’ Workshop hidden within a challenging Christmas tree maze or sit on the lap of the big man himself. If you seek something unique for that difficult someone on your Christmas list, you will want to peruse the Scottish Market on George Street or the European Market in the Mound Precinct.

offering sumptuous street food, artisan wares and a tipple or two in the beautifully crafted traditional German bars. And why not prepare for the inevitable holiday overindulgence by participating in the Santa Dash – a 5k charity run that transforms the city centre into a sea of red suits and fake beards.

©Visit Aberdeenshire

unique gift ideas and delectable treats every Thursday through Sunday until Christmas.

84 | KIDS

It’s never easy finding toys and games that will please everyone from tiny tots to taciturn teens, but we’ve donned our elf costumes and are here to lend Santa a hand. Here’s our selection of toys and board games that’ll make you wish you were a child again…

W

ooden toys, particularly those which encourage creativity and role play, are great for pre-schoolers. Hape’s Baby Einstein range is so much fun, it’s easy to overlook that it’s educational. Our tiny tester was very taken with the well-made and designed MagicTouch Drums.

There are two modes, so your little drummer can play along with the machine’s melodies or create their own music, always assuming you don’t hog it yourself. Find it on Amazon for £16.

Should toys be gender-neutral? There’s no denying that many girls go through a pink princess phase, so indulge it with the Pony Rider Plush Ride On Unicorn. It’s pink, it’s plush, it’s a unicorn and you can ride on it. It’s a seven year old’s dream come true! £199.99 from John Lewis.

KIDS | 85

When it comes to presents for primary school aged kids, you can’t go far wrong with Lego and there are thousands of kits to choose from.

At £40.50, this Lego Star Wars 75242 Black Ace Tie Interceptor could prove popular with Dads and Grandpas too. You’ll find Lego stocking fillers from around £6, all the way up to a Millennium Falcon at £135. All the toyshops have a wide selection.

strategy and luck to connect the five countries you need to win on the map. Meanwhile, opponents can challenge for or even steal countries from you. £30 from John Lewis

that will have team members all over the house before the game’s frantic finale. £34.99 from John Lewis.

Older children and teenagers can be more difficult to buy for, but a board game can bring the family together at least till the arguments over the rules or who’s been stealing Monopoly money from the bank start.

Disease outbreaks might not seem the most cheerful choice for a festive family game, but Pandemic involves cooperating as you try to save humanity. Either everyone wins or gets wiped out. It takes a while to get a handle on the rules and working with, rather than against, the other players, but Pandemic is rightly regarded as a modern classic. Suitable for those aged ten or over. £37.99 from John Lewis.

Adults and older children, especially those with a developing social conscience, will enjoy playing Trump Cards. It’s suitable for those over twelve, but best for those a little older. The premise is simple, all you have to do is work out if the Trump quote on the cards is real or fake news. The reality of play is rather more complicated thanks to the President’s tangential grip on both facts and the English language. £14.79 from Amazon.

Where is Moldova? Geography teachers have an unfair advantage with this one, but it’s a quick game that takes under an hour to play and is fun for anyone over eight.

You’ll need general knowledge,

The Crystal Maze is based on the cult TV programme and is great fun even for those without a clue about the programme. There are four zones with a selection of mental, mystery, skill and physical games

Board games aren’t just for older kids. Try Buy It Right, which is suitable for those aged 5-11 and is a fun way to learn about shopping and counting the change. John Lewis have it for £16.50.

Shopping sorted, now you just need to work out how to wrap a unicorn!

June Inkster, Justin Smith, Kirsty Forbes

Louise Meldrum, Lynsey Davidson

Trend’s No.18 Afternoon Tea Garden Party

Kerry Hart, Dianne Youngson

WHO: More than 180 ladies donned their finery, hats and all at Trend's Afternoon Tea Garden WHO: Party in aid of The Archie No.18 GiftsFoundation. and Card’s clients and friends.

WHAT: Guests were treated to delicious cocktails from Orchid and Porters Gin, while Fifth WHAT: Dimension provided a fabulous magic show.

Customers and friends gathered to celebrate No.18 Gifts andprovided Cards turning two.There No.18 thanked Entertainment

by Right their loyal customers and got treated them to and Production's Dan Greavey the ladies onfizz their feet and a dazzling fashion show Hobbs, discounts.

They Christmas shop isfeaturing now open, and Karen Millen, Jigsaw andtoPhase Eight AngelaCoast, invites you all pop into the shop showcased their and tolatest findcollections. out about their next event.

WHERE: The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa

Katie Macbeath, Jean Taylor

Natasha Hay, Louise Murray

WHERE: No.18 Gifts & Cards, Chapel Street

Michelle Wright, Muriel Adams, Angela Buchan

Katie Dingwall, Louise Davidson

Jessica Dear, Laura Mckenzie

Susie Cobban, Kathleen Welsh, Karen Hennigan

Kathryn Murdoch, Brian Sutton

Diane McBain, Kathleen Durward, Pamela Yeoman

NY Skin Clinic Opening Launch Susan McTaggart, Alison Mellough

Elaine Anderson, Abi Reid

WHO: 50 VIP ladies and gentlemen from around Aberdeenshire attended the exciting opening launch and preview of NY Skin Clinic on the evening of 4 October 2019.

WHAT: An evening to celebrate the completion and launch of NY Skin Clinic, hosted by Elaine Wood (Clinical Director), showcasing Aberdeen’s exciting new aesthetics clinic, equipped with the latest cutting-edge aesthetics technology and innovative treatments.

Magdalene Sochacke, Denise Nicol

Francis Wood, Alex Andrew

WHERE: NY Skin Clinic, 92 Fonthill Road, Aberdeen AB11 6UL

Anna Przniczka, Mati Czurylo, Ruben Lakowski, Elaine Wood, Chris Wood

Grace Harkins, Brenda Bryant

Faye Brandie, Gemma Russell

88 | CREATIVE

I

f you haven’t been up to Banff recently, it’s definitely worth a visit. The town’s regeneration scheme has resulted in several new businesses sited in renovated buildings. The Smiddy is set in a former blacksmiths which lay empty for 30 years and is now the second location for Vanilla Ink’s innovative jewellery making classes and workshops.

The Smiddy is a social enterprise, bringing opportunities for creativity and employment to young people in Scotland. It is also an airy, contemporary space with a great programme of classes. Resident silversmith Megan Falconer runs most of them, with visiting tutors in the summertime. You can learn to make everything from a spoon to your own wedding rings.

JAN LEATHAM TRIES HER HAND AT JEWELLERY MAKING WITH A WORKSHOP AT THE SMIDDY… words by Jan Leatham

Some of the Smiddy’s most popular day courses are ring making workshops. You can make and etch a simple silver band or make a spinner ring. The Smiddy offers more in-depth jewellery making courses too, including the chance to learn stone-setting.

Some of the classes are run in conjunction with Duff House, Banff’s impressive 18th century William Adam mansion house just five minutes away. This partnership with Historic Environment Scotland offers extra scope for creativity as well as forging links between local businesses. This is particularly fitting as Banff has a

CREATIVE | 89

long history of silversmithing, dating back to the 17th century, when wealthy surrounding estate owners headed to the town in winter time. A succession of 24 silversmiths worked in Banff over 200 years, producing mugs, plates and candlesticks for the fashionable party hosts of the time. Today you can learn to make a silver spoon at the Smiddy very similar to those popular back in the day, or commission a piece in gold or silver from the Smiddy’s craftspeople. They can also repair and remodel old items.

This process always involves the customer as much as possible especially when the items have sentimental value.

I chose to try my hand at etching and creating a simple silver band ring, drawing my inspiration from some of the patterns on objects at Duff House. Megan is a patient teacher, which is essential when many of the students are absolute beginners. She talked us through the fascinating processes and painstaking techniques, from cutting and sanding, to etching and

polishing. Students have access to the full range of tools and equipment. If you’ve ever wanted to create a special piece of jewellery for yourself or as a gift, the Smiddy is a great place to learn. There are classes that last from a couple of hours to a full day session. Book in to create a bangle, kilt pin or brooch, trio of copper spoons or a pair of earrings.

This December, the Smiddy are hosting two bespoke festive classes, offering the opportunity to make handmade copper decorations, or a couple of copper napkin rings. Or if you’re looking for a festive get-together with a difference, why not give the Smiddy a call? They can host up to 8 people at a time for a couple of hours to a day, culminating in a unique, handmade piece to take home.

Perfect for a special gift, or something you’ll treasure forever!

Discover the full programme of classes and workshops at vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk.

90 | IN-BRIEF

Children’s concert supports Light UP Children's Charity Light UP Children’s Charity is a small charity which provides funds for equipment, lessons, clubs, uniforms and more for disadvantaged local children.

They are holding a fundraising children’s concert with Inverurie Orchestra on Sunday 15 December in the Acorn Centre. The event is called A Whole New World and will include The Snowman, Aladdin and the Pirates of the Caribbean. lightupcharity.org

Arabella Weir to perform at the Lemon Tree The actor, comedian and writer has extended her solo UK tour until April next year, including a performance on Thursday 26 March. Her show, Does My Mum Loom Big in This? follows her international bestselling book Does My Bum Look Big in This? which took its title from her famous Fast Show catchphrase. ArabellaWeir.co.uk

Amarone reopens with new cocktail bar After a fire in November 2018, the owners of Amarone decided to completely refurbish the Union Street restaurant. As well as modern Italian food, the restaurant has added a new luxury cocktail bar along with seating for up to 200 diners and two private dining areas, including the “Primo Piano” mezzanine complete with its own separate bar.

eBlast celebrates 20th anniversary Since opening at the former Inverurie loco works in 1999 with only four employees and a forklift truck, eBlast has evolved to become one of the largest specialist coatings and surface preparation businesses in the UK. To celebrate 20 years in business they welcomed around 200 people to a family fun day at their Kintore headquarters in the Midmill Industrial Estate.

IN-BRIEF | 91

Station Hotel announces £5million investment The Station Hotel, which is one of the city’s most iconic venues, celebrates its 125th anniversary with news that ongoing investment in its major refurbishment programme has exceeded £5million.

In the latest phase, the ground floor lounge, reception and bar areas have been rejuvenated and a brand-new restaurant created. Fifty bedrooms have also been sympathetically updated. More bedrooms and an upgrade of the function rooms is planned for the next phase.

Forward-thinking developers prioritise wellbeing from the outset Developers of North-east community, Countesswells, have shaped the neighbourhood in a way that promotes healthy outdoor lifestyles. They have prioritised the creation of greenspace, parks and outdoor features to promote and encourage outdoor activity and exercise. . A specially designed playpark is linked to greenspace areas and nearby woods. The community also boasts sustainable drainage systems, re-use of natural stone and a community orchard, and will eventually feature four large parks.

Team raises £20k for Macmillan TEAM Energy and Intermoor, part of the Acteon Group, chose Macmillan Cancer Support as their charity this year, with a target of £15,000 which has now increased to almost £20,000 due to the support they have received.

Amongst the events was a Festive Afternoon Tea organised by Nicole Kennedy at the Park Café, which raised well over £2,000. Nicole also ran five marathons to raise almost £6,000 towards the target.Team members also participated in the Beach Ballistic, Crathes Half Marathon and the Great Aberdeen Run.

Schools Construction Competition launches Grampian Construction Training Group recently held the first in a series of construction, engineering and building services challenges, designed to highlight careers and address the skills shortage within the North-east’s construction industry. The Build Your Future challenge is open to every secondary school in Aberdeen City and Shire free of charge. Teams of ten will compete against each other on a range of tasks including a design for a smart city or rural village of the future, ending with a final in January 2020. Meldrum Academy won the first heat in October.

92 | WHATS ON

December 8

FILM

THE BARN, BANCHORY If it isn't Christmas till you've seen The Grinch, combine a showing of the animated classic with a festive crafts session at The Barn. thebarnarts.co.uk

1 Dec 5 Jan PANTOMIME HMT, ABERDEEN Cinderella at His Majesty’s Theatre. aberdeenperformingarts.com

5

MUSIC

ST. MACHAR CATHEDRAL, ABERDEEN Enjoy a string orchestra concert by candlelight in the gorgeous St. Machar Cathedral. aberdeenperformingarts.com

14

DUTHIE PARK, ABERDEEN Bring donations for local foodbanks and enjoy a carol concert at Duthie Parks Winter Gardens.

10.30 am and 1.30pm. visitabdn.com

13, 20 &21 16 CRAFTS

BANFF, ABERDEENSHIRE Make a pair of beautiful copper napkin rings from scratch at The Smiddy in Banff vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk

19

MUSIC

MUSIC HALL, ABERDEEN Gear up for Hogmanay with the Red Hot Chilli Pipers at The Music Hall. aberdeenperformingarts.com

CHARITY EVENT

MUSIC

MUSIC HALL, ABERDEEN Phil Cunningham brings along some very special friends to his Christmas Songbook performance in the Music Hall this year, including Eddi Reader and Kris Drever. aberdeenperformingarts.com

31

HOGMANAY CEILIDH

BEACH BALLROOM, ABERDEEN Head to the Beach Ballroom for a traditional Hogmanay celebration, complete with ceilidh dancing, a pipe band, stovies and a glass of fizz at the bells. thelittleboxoffice.com

WHAT’S ON | 93

January 18 11 MUSIC

TIVOLI THEATRE, ABERDEEN The Chicago Blues Brothers raise the roof at the Tivoli Theatre. aberdeenperformingarts.com

17

THEATRE SHOW

FARMERS’ MARKET

BANCHORY, ABERDEENSHIRE Banchory Farmers Market.

Around 25 local producers gather in Bellfield Car Park. visitbanchory.com

18

MUSIC

MUSIC HALL, ABERDEEN Get some culture with The Scottish Chamber Orchestra’s programme of Baroque Dances. sco.org.uk

22-25

HMT, ABERDEEN Chase away any lingering January blues by joining An Audience with Elaine C Smith at His Majesty’s Theatre. Let Mary Doll put a smile back on your face for 2020 aberdeenperformingarts.com

THEATRE SHOW

18-19

WEDDING EXHIBITION

P&J LIVE ARENA, ABERDEEN Your Wedding Exhibition has around 200 suppliers gathered under one roof at the P & J Live. pandjlive.com

HMT, ABERDEEN Celebrate 50 years of Scottish Ballet with their Hans Christian Andersen-inspired ballet The Snow Queen at HMT. This tale was also the inspo for Frozen! aberdeenperformingarts.com

25

KIDS SHOW

ABERDEEN ARTS CENTRE, ABERDEEN Artie’s Singing Kettle celebrates Robert Burns. aberdeenperformingarts.com

94 | ADVERTISEMENTS

words by Peter Mitchell and is now restaurant manager at yet another iconic watering hole in Aberdeen, the Silver Darling in Fittie, which has a stunning view of the mouth of the harbour.

‘It has had a fantastic year since we renovated it” says Jillian, ‘which greatly pleases our managing director Allan Henderson, who grew up nearby.’ Also, in the management team are operations director Alan Aitken and director Darren Young.

The group takes its name from McGinty’s bar at the top of Union Street, formerly Frankenstein’s.

‘It is now 10 years old but we reinvested & refurbished it a couple of years ago,’ says Jillian, ‘and it now has an area called the bothy for private functions.

We also work hard to reflect changing trends and tastes in drinking habits, notably with the likes of the exploding market in gins.’ Hazard a guess at just how many you can choose from and you would not be far out at 60-plus. Wow!

Talk about living life in the fast lane and you have to meet Aberdonian Jillian Miller. She has been so busy as sales and marketing director of the fast-expanding McGinty’s pub, hotel and restaurant group, her business card is a tad out of date.

M

issing from the version she presented me with when we met at their No 10 bar and restaurant in the city’s Queen’s Terrace, are two iconic Union Street landmarks: the Grill bar, soon to be 150 years old, and the former Esslemont and Mcintosh emporium, now the Esslemont bar and restaurant on the ground floor and Mac’s Pizzeria on the first floor.

However, far from being out of breath at the breakneck speed of expansion in nearly five years with the company, Jillian is relishing the challenge of setting

and maintaining the highest standards of service. ‘We are like a family and we are passionate about making our venues destinations for Aberdeen to be proud of,’ says the former pupil of Cults Academy and honours graduate in business management of the city’s Robert Gordon University.

FOCUS ON

Ferryhill House Hotel and the Stag bar in Crown Street, formerly the Star and Garter, are also in the McGinty’s portfolio as is the Four Mile at Kingswells.

‘We now employ about 250 people PROVIDING but still have a close-knit group. THE BEST Phew! I needed a lie down We work hands on with our staff, OF SERVICE after getting the lowdown specifically the venue managers on Operation McGinty’s and I and chefs, and we like to promote rather liked the notion that the from within,’ she adds. For example, company throws a big party for Abbie Michie started out as a its own staff, not once, but twice waitress at No 10 three years ago a year. And, naturally, it’s all free.

THE LAST WORD | 95

So what lies ahead for a group which is somehow bucking the trend of pub and hotel closures in Aberdeen? ‘Consistency is the name of the game,’ says Jillian.

‘We will continue to add value to our existing outlets and keep our focus on providing the best of service.’

Does she rule out further expansion? ‘Who knows,’ she says, before dashing off to get her business card updated!

96 |

Fancy y m somE yusm? chofrcom

Send a picture of you holding a copy of Trend against the backdrop of your favourite holiday destination along with your name and details of your trip. We’ll publish our readers’ most inspired pictures from domestic or overseas travels and the most ‘trendy’ contribution will receive a Hotel Chocolat ‘Sleekster’ box of chocolates.

Email your picture to: trendylocations@trendmagazine.co.uk

It looks like Christmas has come early for our lucky winners from last time.

A

nne Wood will be whisking a friend off to Dundee for a two night stay and dinner at the newly opened Staybridge Suites, while Lorraine Pirrie and her guest will be living it up with an exclusive two night package at McDonald Pittodrie House which includes dinner, a bar supper and flowers, chocolates and wine in her room. Lastly, Pamela Gardiner and her family will be having a marvellous time at HMT with a family panto ticket for four to see this year’s production of Cinderella.

All offers expire 31 Jan 2020.

Offers cannot be claimed alongside an existing offer or on sale items. Please quote TREND or present a tear out of the offer when claiming any offers. Individual Terms & Conditions also apply.

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