Healthier living
Get the habit in 2021
4 | ABERDEEN CLINIC
ABERDEEN CLINIC | 5
ambulatory care at the Aberdeen Clinic
T
AC offers a range of procedures which can be carried out as an out-patient. Ambulatory care provides simple, minor procedures without the need for a general anaesthetic or admission to hospital. The aim of ambulatory services is to admit, treat and discharge the patient on the same day Traditional inpatient operations are being rapidly replaced by office, outpatient or day surgery procedures which reduce infection risks and provide a safe means of undertaking operations that may incur long waits in the current climate. We can often arrange same or next-day appointments - you'll be seen by our consultants at a time that's convenient for you and you will be sure to receive treatment that adheres to our BEST practice promise:
B E S T
Best value Effective treatment Safely delivered Timely - at a time that suits you
Services that can be undertaken on an ambulatory care basis are as follows:
Gynaecology Procedures include hysteroscopy, removal of endometrial polyps, fibroids as well as investigations for infertility, post-menopausal and abnormal bleeding.
Endoscopy Upper GI Endoscopy, Colonoscopy, Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Procedures
Vascular Procedures: Radio Frequency ablation, foam sclerotherapy, micro sclerotherapy
General Surgery
All services are undertaken by Consultants and supported by our laboratories for blood tests and pathology analysis. We can also offer ultrasound with our radiological specialist teams to support any treatment that you might require.
Procedures: Local Anaesthetic hernia repairs, removal of lumps and bumps, Vasectomies and ingrown toenail procedures. Minor ano rectal problems e.g. haemorrhoids
Tel: 0333 0143 488 theaberdeenclinic.com
6 | CONTENTS
FASHION
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Comfort & Joy: At home elegance 26 Cosy up: The best winter warmers 32
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
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ART, & CULTURE
10 Healthier habits for 2021 20 Slick performers: Oils & serums for every skin
76 Creative: Meet Fiona Ross of Candy Coated Accessories 78 Festive traditions: Shanay Taylor delves into local customs
FOOD & DRINK
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Festive recipes from top city & shire restaurants 44 Ask the Chef: Craig Wilson’s no-fuss meal ideas 53
LIFESTYLE
Better than socks: Trend’s gift guide for men 34 Support local: Trend visits Rosemount & West End 36 Kids’ gifts: All present & correct 68
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HOMES & GARDENS
56 Interiors: Chill out. Snuggle up & stay home in style 64 Kirsty McLean’s outdoor options
TRAVEL & LEISURE
08 Make the most of December & January 72 Travel: Barbados - dream destination 80 Meet Robin Macpherson, head of Robert Gordon’s College
ADVERTISEMENTS WELCOME | 7
ISSUE N0. 79 | DEC 20/JAN 21
FROM THE
EDITOR Hello again, This is the time of year when we tend to look back over the past year and forward to the next. Most of us won’t look back at 2020 with fondness. We’ve seen massive disruptions to our lifestyles and livelihoods. Many have struggled with loneliness, mental wellbeing and financial hardship. There are however, some positives to be taken from what future historians may call the Year of the Pandemic. We’ve learned once more to reach out to those around us who needed help. The ideals of altruism and community made a comeback. We’ve developed a renewed appreciation for teachers, medical staff, posties, delivery drivers and key workers. We’ve realigned our consumption patterns, supporting local businesses in the hopes of keeping shops and jobs going across the city and shire. We exercised at home and took a DIY
approach to beauty. We washed our hands 17 times a day. We even decided that showing your roots was a sign of solidarity. We managed to get through it and now, with a clutch of vaccines ready to roll out, it’s important that we keep the positives from this collective experience. Our hope is that 2021 is better for everyone in the North-east of Scotland and beyond. Our communities are stronger and we’re more focussed on the things that matter most - our health and wellbeing, our families and our friends. Together, we can create the kind of society that we want to live in and our children can prosper. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and the Happiest of New Years. 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
Contributors Kirsty McLean, Shanay Taylor
On the Cover PHOTOGRAPHER Donna Murray: donnamurrayphotography.com COVER MODEL Eilidh Cartwright of Premiere Productions
8 | WHATS ON
04-06 DEC WILDWOODZ OPEN AIR CHRISTMAS MARKET Road trip? Exclusively Highlands can be found Between Munlochy and Tore on the A832 just north of Inverness. The market features a wide range of Art, Craft, Food & Drink Open 11-3 each day. Elderly and disabled access at 10am. Find out more at exclusivelyhighlands.co.uk/events THROUGH DEC CHRISTMAS MARKET Head to the Bon Accord Centre for a socially distanced Christmas Market with lots of stalls from local makers. It runs from Thursday to Sunday 10-6 every weekend in December and also on Monday 21st to Wednesday 23rd.
07 DEC DONATE A TOY Donate a new toy to the Christmas appeal run by Cash for Kids, Find out where you can drop your gift off at planetradio.co.uk/northsound/charity/ events/mission-christmas-aberdeen
10 DEC GET CRAFTY Make a wreath for your door using greenery from the garden centre or visit your local florist for a ready-made option. Alternatively have a go with some jewel-toned baubles and a glue gun. 13 DEC WATERFALL WALK Garioch Ranger Service have a waterfall walk heading out from Bennachie Visitor Centre. Pre-booking is essential. Find out more here. eventbrite.co.uk/e/waterfall-walk-tickets127173075091?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
18 DEC SUPPORT A LOCAL FOODBANK Pop some extra staples in your trolley and donate it to a local foodbank, or make a donation online. They need even more help in January.
23 DEC-4 JAN THEATRE If you’re missing out on the panto this year, try streaming the National Theatre of Scotland’s rather different version of Rapunzel, which was filmed at Stirling Castle. Tickets are available from nationaltheatrescotland.com/ book/instance/68601. They are priced from £0 to £25, so donate what you can. The show includes a free, fun, festive activity pack for families to enjoy over the holiday period. An audio described version and a creative BSL performance interpretation are also available.
WHATS ON | 9
OUR PICK OF THE BEST GOING OUT & STAYING HOME ACTIVITIES IN DECEMBER & JANUARY
02 JAN RESOLUTIONS Make a start on your resolutions.
27 JAN BURNS NIGHT Bring out the tartan and rejoice in the fact that we’re probably the only nation who routinely declaim poetry to the minced up internal organs of a sheep.
09 JAN FOOTBALL Aberdeen take on Rangers at Pittodrie. UPTO 24 JAN BP PORTRAIT AWARD Book a slot to see this year’s most outstanding portrait works at the Art Gallery
16 JAN ABERDEEN SCIENCE CENTRE Explore the exhibits and ignite the kids’ curiosity at Aberdeen’s newly reopened Science Centre. Visit aberdeensciencecentre.org/ to find out what’s happening.
28-31 JAN SOUND FESTIVAL The city and shire’s annual celebration of new music has a mix of live performances and livestreams. Find out what’s going on at sound-scotland.co.uk/
All events are subject to change or cancellation, so check before heading out.
Š Shutterstock/By Fab_1
10 | HEALTH
A new year often signifies hope, new beginnings and a fresh start for many people.
W
e set new goals in the hope of achieving at least a couple of them before we grow tired and eventually give up. Why is it we start every year determined to better ourselves yet end up failing miserably halfway through? More often than not, our resolutions are based on our personal health and wellness. We aim to lose weight, be mindful, eat more healthily, join a gym or start an exercise routine. Statistically, our goals are likely to be abandoned within a week or two. We asked Yoga guru Charlotte Fox to share some attainable and realistic goals that can be sustained throughout 2021. According to Charlotte, the first step to achieving a healthy lifestyle is to remove any toxicity from your system. She explains that in doing so, it’s important to lead a conscious lifestyle, especially after the trauma we have all endured this year. Just how do we go about doing that? It means we need to take extra steps to keep that mental clarity and positive high. Many of us aren’t good at taking time for ourselves. We have too much going on and too many things to do. It’s often seen as a selfish act, but, in reality, it’s essential for our mind, soul and body. Find some time for yourself in 2021.There are simple yet mindful things you can do such as taking a bath, reading a chapter of your favourite book before you go to bed or even going for a breath of fresh air outside. All of these things contribute to your overall mood and therefore have an impact on your mental and physical health. Try to add more whole foods, vegetables, fruits, nuts and whole grains into your diet. That might just mean making your own lunch or having one less ready meal each week. Gradual change can work. You don’t need to suddenly start eating nothing but
tofu and fermented veg. Simply swapping to some healthier choices will get you off to a good start as you won’t feel deprived of foods you crave that might be forbidden on a stricter diet. Don’t deprive yourself to begin with, but just keep switching to healthier choices as the weeks progress. Engaging in physical pursuits such as yoga and meditation is also vital to increasing your body’s serotonin levels and helping you to feel good, particularly when you’re feeling a bit down or stressed out. Yoga or meditation will allow you to find calmness whilst also increasing your body’s awareness of its surroundings. You will feel as if a weight has been lifted from your shoulders as your body and mind work in alignment rather than opposition. Make 2021 the year you start moving towards a healthier, happier you!
12 | HEALTH
IN-BRIEF | 13
Aberdeen CHSS open Gift Card charity boutique launches in Stonehaven If you’re still stuck for a gift idea, why not offer the entire city? The new Aberdeen Gift Card is a prepaid Mastercard that can be used like a debit or credit card in shops, bars, hairdressers and beauticians, restaurants, hotels, cinemas and other services throughout the city.
A new boutique is opening up in Stonehaven’s market square around December 7th. It’s the second Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland boutique style charity shop in the area, following on from the popularity of the Cults branch.
More than 60 businesses have already signed up to be part of the scheme, and Aberdeen Inspired is encouraging businesses across the city to get involved and register to be part of the Aberdeen Gift Card scheme. Find out more at aberdeeninspired.com/project/aberdeen-gift-card.
CHSS is a Scottish health charity that provides support for those suffering from these conditions and their families across. All proceeds raised in the shop goes directly to the charity. The boutiques specialise in quality and designer pre-loved clothing and accessories, so it’s a great
place to donate if you’re having a wardrobe clear out or you’ll looking to take a more sustainable approach to fashion in 2021.
14 | SOAK JUICES
Chef Gary launches home delivery meal boxes MasterChef: The Professionals winner and Scotland’s National Chef Gary Maclean has launched his first-ever home delivery meal box with his Festive Cookalong in partnership with Scotch Beef PGI.
A little shot of wellness and so much more
S
oak Juices, the Aberdeenshire-based, home-made cold-pressed juicing company have just launched their brilliant little wellness shots. Packing a big boost for the immune system and gut health into a small package, the shots come in four fabulous flavours. You can order them via @soakjuices on Instagram or by e-mail at info@soakjuices.co.uk All Soak Juices’ products are natural and made from the highest quality, locally-sourced organic produce. Try their three day Juice Cleanse, juices, smoothies, nut milks or kid’s juices, all made in the shire. Distribution is via local collection or nationwide delivery.
The 3-course meal box for two uses some of Scotland’s best produce and includes online videos to help you create your culinary masterpiece. Find out more via Itison at itison.com/Glasgow/shop/3-course-festivecook-along-box-for-two-from-masterchefwinner-gary-maclean-inc-nationwidedelivery?secret=pUyidto
Sutherlands of Portsoy launch new website Faced with the prospect of shutting their doors during lockdown and potentially never reopening, Sutherlands of Portsoy decided to open a delivery service, partnering with eight other North-east food and drink producers. The company, which has been smoking fish since 1908, also worked with the Rowatt to create recipes which meant the food boxes were zero-waste and distributed them to the vulnerable in the region. As part of this, their new website, sutherlandsofportsoy.scot focuses on health
and wellbeing as well as selling their smoked salmon and other products.
ADVERTISEMENTS | 15
Andrew Scott Dental Care:
Ailsa brings cookery A classes online
Simply a better smile
lmost 40% of us are unhappy with our smiles, but there’s really no need for this. Andrew Scott Dental Care can create that confident smile you’ve been dreaming of. There are so many fast, pain-free and surprisingly cost-effective cosmetic treatment options available today.
Ailsa Brown has launched a new career based on her love of food and travel. Eat with Ailsa offers online cookery classes, each themed round a different city or culture. There are classes based on Middle Eastern and Indian Cuisine as well as Asian Street Food favourites. You can book a group session or a place in a scheduled online class. To view her current selection of classes available, visit eatwithailsa.com
If your idea of getting straight teeth still involves clumsy metal brackets and wires, you’ll be glad to know that the technology has moved on. Our Associate dentists, Roshan Fernandez and Julie Rafferty, offer clear aligner orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth. This gives you the smile you’ve always wanted, by using a series of removable, almost invisible, clear trays which
work quickly and discretely. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing. The aligners are custom designed using a 3D scan or impression. Our 3D software means you can see what your new smile will look like even before your treatment starts. We can offer a pre-aligner and you’ll have regular appointments to monitor your progress. We can even combine it with teeth whitening for a truly dazzling transformation! There’s always something to smile about with Andrew Scott Dental Care. 15A Victoria Street, AB10 1XB Tel: 01224 806700 andrewscottdental.co.uk
16 | ADVERTISEMENTS
National Trust launches micro-wedding packages Conservation charity, the National Trust for Scotland has launched coronavirus-compliant wedding packages for couples looking to plan their ceremonies soon. The Elopement package includes the use of a selected location, ceremony, flowers and a romantic picnic. The Micro-wedding package is designed for up to 20 people and local venues include Mar Lodge, Castle Fraser and Fyvie Castle. The package starts at ÂŁ3600, but includes a three course meal for the guests. For more information, visit nts.org.uk/venue-hire-information/weddings
Art duo sketch the whole city A pair of artists on a mission to produce large scale sketches of the UK’s cities are currently working on Aberdeen. You can follow their work and buy mini-sketches and limited editions at sketchnthecity.com
MAGNOLIA LANE BRIDAL | 17
T
he North-east’s newest bridal boutique has just opened in Peterculter, bringing a bouquet of designers to the city. Magnolia Lane Bridal offers stunning gowns designed to make every bride’s dream come true.
Say yes to the perfect dress
It was a combination of her own wedding back in February and her previous career as an Event and Wedding Co-ordinator that made Magnolia Lane’s owner Georgia Dale decide to open her own bridal boutique. ‘Seeing each couple’s journey to marriage truly inspired me. Looking down the aisle I’d see everyone in awe of this breath-taking bride and I wanted to be part of that. Just as I had decided this, The Bridal Boutique went up for sale in Peterculter and I decided to pursue my dreams.
‘I’ve chosen five designers including Randy Fenoli from the TV show Say Yes to the Dress. His collections are so beautiful. Nicole Milano’s dresses have a romantic elegance. Ladybird Bridal offers some stunning silhouettes and detail, while House of St. Patrick’s contemporary elegance combines sculpted lines with optimal comfort. Lastly, Herve Paris specialise in boho glamour. Many are in stock now, with the 2021 collections due in the next few months. ‘We carry sample sizes from a UK12 to UK26 and our prices range from £800 £2,500 with the majority sitting in the £1,200 - £1,800 price range. ‘I want every bride to be able to find her perfect dress when she visits Magnolia Lane. That’s why each bride receives a private appointment, having the whole shop to herself and her party. We have evening appointments available and are open all weekend. It’s all about helping the bride find her dream dress in our modern and intimate boutique.’ 267 North Deeside Road, Peterculter, Aberdeen, AB14 0UL Tel: 01224 733344 magnolialanebridal.co.uk @magnolialanebridal
18 | ADVERTISEMENTS
Visit Aberdeen Eco-Conscious Christmas Market online North-east Christmas shoppers are being invited to take part in a virtual Christmas Market experience. Aberdeen Eco-conscious Christmas Market will host dozens of traders throughout December, with a focus on local, sustainable products.
It’s the season for cosy boots and snuggly jackets and since we’re all spending more time outdoors these days, it might be time for a trip to Country Ways to ensure your Winter wardrobe is up to job! Team Country Ways’ top picks from this season’s collection include the iconic Dubarry Galway leather boots - a staple for town and country-lovers and designed to stand up to the very worst of weather, yet stylish enough to be the perfect ‘alfreso boot’ for outdoor dining. The holebrook of Sweden jumpers for ladies and gents are a great mid
layer with their windproof lining - and the perfect Christmas pressie for golfers and dog-walkers! Ladies, you’ll love the Dubarry Jamiestown fleece-lined quilted jacket, and for the gents the Dubarry Carrickfergus waxed, prima-loft lined jacket is super stylish and perfect for work and weekends.
The event takes place on Facebook and has been organised by Kathryn McIntosh of Inverurie-based re:treat Apothecary. Around 50 wonderful crafters, makers and artists from the North-east and further afield are taking part. Search on Facebook for Aberdeen Eco-Conscious Christmas Market to see what’s on offer.
Country Ways is open 7 days a week at 115 Holburn Street, Aberdeen and at their new pop-up shop at Milton of Crathes until end December. All of their collections are also online at countryways.com
New premises for Bespoke Decorators A local painting and decorating business has moved to new office premises that will provide a long-term home for its growing team. Bespoke Decorators has signed a three year lease on its new Dyce premises. The company, which launched early in 2019 has grown from four staff to 19. The company’s director, Brian Kerr, commented, ‘Despite the challenges facing all businesses in the wake of the pandemic, we have been able to remain in a relatively strong position and continued to progress with new job opportunities created over the past few months.’
SHOP IN-STORE, OR ON-LINE! Give the gift of gorgeous fashion, purchase one of our Gift Vouchers.
bentleys-banchory.co.uk Opening hours 9-30am to 5-30pm, Monday-Saturday
32-36 High Street, Banchory Tel. Â 01330 825655
Slick performers W
e might know a thing or two about oil in our corner of the world, but many of us are still in the dark about the benefits of oils and serums as part of our skincare routines. Whether you’re 14, 40 or 84, male or female, there’s one to suit the needs of every skin… Serums are traditionally water-based skin care products that are infused with vitamin-rich oils, minerals and antioxidants. Their ultralightweight formula won’t leave your skin feeling weighed down or congested. They help to lock in moisture, reduce wrinkles and tone the skin, as well as helping to reduce inflammation caused by acne and other skin conditions. Facial oils work by creating a protective layer that seals moisture into your skin and by providing nourishing vitamins and minerals. They help to combat the effects of traffic pollution and cigarette smoke, however any product applied after your oil won’t be able to deliver its full benefits and will be partly
wasted. This means it’s a good idea to apply a drop or two after your usual moisturiser as you get ready for bed as this will help to rebalance, rehydrate and restore your skin. Organic skin care expert Charlotte Vøhtz, explained, “A good face oil contains high quality, pure ingredients derived from organic sources that are rich in skin-loving natural antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids to nourish and protect. ‘My advice is to look for a product that contains a blend of ultra-nourishing fruit, seed and flower oils that work together. That way you get the benefits from many different plants and a product that offers a light, easily-absorbed skin feel. My go to choices would be products which include jojoba, avocado, rosehip and lecithin and I’d suggest avoiding products that contain liquid paraffin and silicones, synthetic fragrances or colourants are these often cause skin irritation’.
ADVERTISEMENTS | 21
Here’s our pick of the best oils and serums from boutique beauty brands…
Alteya Organics Rosehip Seed Oil
ORMEDIC Balancing Anti-Oxidant Serum
At £12.95, Alteya`s 100% USDA certified organic cold pressed oils offers high end performance at a bargain price. Rosehip Seed Oil is rich in essential fatty acids, which are great for soothing, softening and hydrating the skin. It is particularly useful for lessening the effects of sun damage and it helps reduce skin discolouration. Find it at alteya.co.uk
This is a great option if you’re looking for a serum you can use every day to soothe the skin and reduce damage. It smells wonderful and the doctor-formulated combination of Kakadu plum, beetroot extract, organic grape water and hyaluronic acid are perfect if your skin is tired looking or dry. £58.00 from imageskincare.co.uk/ ormedic-balancing-anti-oxidant-serum
Nordic Roots Hyaluronic Booster Serum
Nordic Roots Marine Facial Oil
This is a superb choice if you’re looking for intensive hydration or a product for sensitive or more mature skin. The combination of hyaluronic acid, sugar beet and hop flowers is absorbed quickly and works to plump up the skin, reducing hyperpigmentation and age spots. It comes with great organic and natural credentials. £27 from greenpeople.co.uk
Nordic Roots also produce one of the most effective marine facial oils on the market. It’s rich in anti-oxidant vitamin E and seaweed that helps boost collagen production for smooth, firmer, younger looking skin with fewer lines and an even skin tone. £28 from greenpeople.co.uk
Crystal Clear Quartz Powerball Miracle Eye Serum
Oils are too heavy for the delicate eye area, so go for Crystal Clear’s Quartz Powerball Miracle Eye Serum. It’s a cooling gel that’s best applied in the morning or about 10 minutes before a Zoom meeting to reduce the appearance of puffiness, dark circles and fine lines. The ingredients include hyaluronic acid and quartz crystals. £39.99 from crystalclear.co.uk
22 | BLOOM
BLOOM | 23
ABERDEEN’S NEW LIFESTYLE SALON
S
heona Forrest makes a welcome return to the city with Bloom Lifestyle Salon, a new concept hair and beauty salon that combines the best in modern hair styling, colour and innovative, high-performance products with excellent beauty treatments.
environmental and socially responsible products that still offer the highest performance. For beauty and skincare, we’ve chosen Comfort Zone. Davines and Comfort Zone are a family run business based in Italy with proven, effective products and an impressive record of social responsibility. Lots of brands have to give up on performance to remain socially and environmentally responsible but working with Davines and Comfort Zone means Bloom can offer guests really effective products without causing harm to the planet.
This is Sheona’s second Bloom Lifestyle Salon, adding to Bloom Glasgow which boasts a large following of loyal guests and a reputation for excellence. As many readers will know, Sheona previously co-owned an Aveda salon in the city. Sheona commented, ‘I started my career at 15, working as a Saturday assistant in a salon where my mum was the part-time bookkeeper. I’ve always loved the hair and beauty business, you get to transform how someone looks and feels. I love the connection, the art and seeing something through from concept to end result. It’s an amazing business to be in and I’m lucky that I landed where I did. Now I want to bring that same Bloom brand to Aberdeen. ‘We’ve gathered an amazing team at Bloom. It’s a bit of a family business as I’m joined by my nephew Neil and my niece Ashton in running the
Bloom Lifestyle Salon in Aberdeen. It’s refreshing to combine my business experience with their drive, knowledge and energy. I’ve been blown away by how committed the whole Bloom Aberdeen team are to making sure every guest leaves the salon looking and feeling great. I know some people will think it’s risky to open a new salon right now, but we know Bloom Aberdeen has a great future and we can’t wait to add our brand to the West End of Aberdeen. ‘In Aberdeen, our brand partner is Davines. I’ve always made it my mission to find and use the best
As well as colour and styling services, Bloom also offers a full menu of modern beauty treatments using sustainable, eco-friendly products. You can book skin, body, lash and brow treatments to fit around your hair appointment, making it a convenient one-stop makeover shop. You’ll find Bloom, appropriately enough, on the corner of Rose Street and Thistle Street at the heart of the West End retail community’. Anderson House, 24 Rose Street, AB10 1UA Tel: 01224 446750 bloom_aberdeen bloomlifestyle.co.uk
Shop local with us at...
Two Elgin bosses named among the 50 Most Influential People in British Luxury Stephen Rankin, Gordon MacPhail’s Director of Prestige and Simon Cotton, Chief Executive of Scottish luxury cashmere manufacturer, Johnstons of Elgin, have been honoured as two of the most influential people in British Luxury.
250 charitable organisations that support the NHS, its employees, volunteers, and patients in the UK.
The recognition comes as Gordon & MacPhail, marked its 125th anniversary in 2020, launching four extremely rare commemorative whiskies released to honour the company’s milestone. Simon Cotton was recognised in the ‘Heroes’ category alongside brands including Manolo Blahnik, The Berkeley and Turnbull & Asser. This category celebrates the individuals who reached out to their community and supported frontline workers, the NHS, or the national effort during the early stages of the pandemic.
Brand new lines always being added & ongoing promotions throughout this festive period Collections from: Tommy Hilfiger, GANT, J. Lindeberg, Ted Baker, Purotatto, French Connection, Great Plains
Accessories from: Soul Analyse, Tilley & Grace 14 Netherkirkgate Aberdeen AB10 1AU Tel: 01224 640793 loloandco.co.uk Facebook “f ” Logo
CMYK / .eps
Facebook “f ” Logo
CMYK / .eps
As well as producing small batches of scrubs at its Elgin mill for the local hospital and primary care centres, in June Johnstons of Elgin designed a Limited-Edition Rainbow Scarf to help the fight against coronavirus. Just 350 Rainbow Scarves were released, with £100 from each sale donated to NHS Charities Together, a federation of around
Local woodcarver launches Climate Currency to support Reforesting Scotland Local woodcarver Robert Lawrence, known for his eco-projects and use of sustainable wood, has teamed up with charity Reforesting Scotland to launch Climate Currency™. Each hand made wooden token carries a carefully chosen phrase to summarise the climate emergency and our reactions to it. They are available individually or in a set of four and can be used as coasters. For every Climate Currency™ coin sold, a native tree will be planted and maintained in the UK. Tree planting will begin in 2021, using native hardwoods to creating well managed woodlands. Find out more at environmentroom.co.uk
Stylish looks for celebrating at home
OPPOSITE PAGE & ABOVE TOP: BLACK LONG BEADED DRESS £70 TO RENT, MUST HAVE DRESSES LEFT & ABOVE: COULOTTES PART TWO £79.95, JUMPER LEO & UGO £139, @HAMISHMUNRO. SANDALS MODELS OWN
OPPOSITE PAGE: POM SUIT BLAZER £139, TROUSERS £99, GOLD VEST PART TWO £59.95, @HAMISHMUNRO. SANDALS MODELS OWN THIS PAGE: DRESS PART TWO £129.95, GABOR CHUNKY BOOTS £150, @HAMISHMUNRO.
OPPOSITE PAGE: GREAT PLAINS JUMPSUIT £95, LOLO AND CO BOUTIQUE THIS PAGE: PINK SHORT COCKTAIL DRESS £60 RENT/£100 BUY, MUST HAVE DRESSES
With all our thanks to Cala Homes for letting us shoot in their new Roxburgh Show Home at Cults Park cala.co.uk
HERE’S OUR PICK OF THE WARMEST, COSIEST LOOKS TO GET YOU THROUGH THE BLEAK MIDWINTER WITHOUT SACRIFICING STYLE…
Joules
34 | MENS EDIT
LET’S FACE IT, WHEN IT COMES TO CHRISTMAS, MEN OFTEN END UP WITH GIFTS THAT ARE - QUITE LITERALLY - PANTS. IMAGINE UNWRAPPING YOUR PRESENTS THEN HAVING TO EXPRESS YOUR DELIGHT OVER YET ANOTHER SELECTION OF SOCKS. Yes, there’s always vouchers but it’s all a bit low effort. The men in your life deserve gifts that are more than an afterthought. Here’s what we picked out.
bottles are between £6-10, or choose from their Christmas selections, with prices from £22 to £145. Find out more at thewinesociety.com
ROCK GODS Some dreams never grow old. Head to Kenny’s Music Shop down on the Green for an impressive selection of guitars, basses, keyboards and other instruments. Book a tuition package with a local teacher via aberdeenmusictuition.com for your own sanity.
GARDENING GURUS Growing your own is a great way to relax and unwind. Try Mains of Drum for a great selection of gardening tools, or buy some vouchers for a garden centre or seed supplier so they can plan ahead for the spring season. If the budget will stretch, most men would appreciate their own shed. Cordiners offer a great selection from their base in Torry.
JOIN THE CLUB How about a club membership? Perhaps a golf club or gym, or a monthly subscription box for a hobby or interest? Our pick would be a membership package for the Wine Society. The £40 joining fee comes with a £20 voucher towards their first purchase, plus access to a world of good wine, learning resources and events. Most of their 1500
If the budget’s tighter, go for some decent gardening gloves and this multi-tool from Kikkerland, which combines functionality with great design. You can use it to prune, saw, transplant seedlings and even open bottles. Find it at Trouva.com for £22.49.
OLDER & WISER Grandpas will love Richard Osman’s debut crime novel featuring a quartet of elderly sleuths. The Thursday Murder Club is surprisingly warm and endearing given the body count. Steven Spielberg has snapped up the film rights, but you can snap up a copy at a local independent bookshop. Try Yeadon’s who have branches in both Banchory and Elgin. STYLE ICONS If you’re looking for a gift that will never go out of style, head for Finnies on George Street. They have a superb selection of luxury wristwatches. The Tudor Black Bay Watch, for example, oozes self-confidence with its black dial and stainless steel case. It comes in at £2840, but their range starts at £90 and they have a great selection of other gifts including jewellery, desk items and glassware. Discover more at finnies.com GAMERS If the budget will stretch and you don’t mind not seeing your significant other until mid-March, then the PS5 or the kit to build his own gaming PC - assuming some degree of technical capability or the presence of a tech-savvy 11 year old - are the obvious choices.
MENS EDIT | 35
GOURMET GENTS Keen cooks might appreciate a home-made hamper filled with goodies from one of the city’s oriental or European shops. If he prefers the prep already done, then one of Home-X.com’s boxes is ideal. Six By Nico will deliver a delicious menu based on one of the world’s great cities. With four courses for two people and a bottle of wine for £60, and versions for carnivores and vegetarians available, it’s seriously good food to enjoy together. SPIRITED CHAPS How about a trip to Tayport Distillery? For £50 per person, you can enjoy your own sampling and blending session with The Distiller’s Kitchen Experience including a 20cl bottle to take home. You can buy vouchers now for when distillery tours reopen. If you can’t wait, check out their excellent range of spirits including eau de vie and liqueurs on the website. At just £12.50 their raspberry liqueur is perfect with prosecco and would make the idea start to Christmas Day. Discover the range at tayportdistillery.com If your chap is keener on whisky, then he’ll love a bottle of NC’Nean, which comes from one of the newest distilleries in Scotland. The second ever batch has just gone on sale and there are only 5040 bottles. It’s an organic whisky with overtones of lemon posset, peaches and rye bread and the most gorgeous bottle. Find it at the Aberdeen Whisky Shop on Union Street, the Inverurie Whisky Shop for around £50 or buy direct from ncnean.com. Pair it with a decanter from Finnies for extra retro-style points.
SHOP LOCAL | 37
Since our very first issue more that thirteen years ago, Trend has always championed local businesses and we always will.
T
hanks to COVID and other global macro-economic trends, we’re already seeing casualties amongst restaurants, bars and hotels across the city and shire. Each shop, restaurant or bar that closes is a loss for our entire community, as people lose their jobs, incomes and hopes for a brighter future. The latest figures suggest that one in five shop units on Union Street is empty. There’s a very real danger that the heart could be ripped out of our city, so we want to encourage everyone to visit local stores and spend some of their budget there
rather than ordering online from multi-national companies. For many independent retailers, the run up to Christmas is a crucial period that helps them survive leaner times. They always have something different, so they’re a great source of gifts as well as treats for yourself and your home. With that in mind, we took a wander round the West End and Rosemount and popped down to Holburn Street to showcase some of our favourite shops… We parked in the Chapel Street Car Park, because finding a
parking space in Rosemount can be like finding the Holy Grail, thanks to new restrictions. Our route took us around Chapel Street, Thistle Street, and Rose Street, up Esslemont Avenue to Rosemount Place, down South Mount Street and Rosemount Viaduct, then back to the car park via Skene Terrace and a quick diversion to Union Street and Holburn Street. Opening times vary a lot at present, but if you opt for an afternoon later in the week or a Saturday morning from 10am, most shops should be open.
Chapel Street No. 18 on Chapel Street is a Trend favourite. Angela always has a welcoming smile for visitors to her shop, even from under her glittery mask. She offers a wonderful assortment of accessories, gifts, cards and wrapping paper. Lots of sparkly hats, gloves and scarves, to make you feel festive as well as prints and some cute little hand sanitisers that would make good Secret Santa gifts or stocking fillers. Further along, we love Tiger Lily’s floral window swags, handbags and cosy wraps and Oxfam offers some great charity gifts. It’s the place to go if you want to donate a goat, seeds or even an entire farmyard in someone’s name. If you’re already peckish, Almondine, on the corner of Chapel Street and Thistle Street is a wonderful patisserie and coffee shop which is always worth a visit.
Tel: 01224 646032 18 Chapel Street Aberdeen AB10 1SP
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Thistle Street Thistle Street offers a wealth of independent shops. Popular café Foodstory offers lots of vegan meals, and is particularly strong on salads. The food shop upstairs is great if you want to move to a more-plant based diet, or create a food hamper. Bellino has one of the best selections of stylish clothes and shoes in town. The emphasis on quality, great materials and good design. This season, there’s lots of neutral pieces in greys, blacks and taupes, with a splash of red. The collection from Masai balances easy to wear practicality with striking designs and flattering shapes. There are two Esslemonts stores on Thistle Street. We fell a little bit in love with a pink faux fur coat in the ladies store and were impressed with the well-curated menswear shop. It’s a friendly shop with some lovely double sided cosy scarves from Tresanti that would make
a thoughtful gift. We liked the well-made jackets from Bugatti. They stock knitwear in small to 2XL sizes and jeans and chinos in 32-38 waist, but are always happy to order up special sizes. It’s a good reminder that independent shops often carry better quality lines at better value price points compared to major retail chains. Next door, the Winter Exhibition is in full swing at Gallery Heinzel, with a fine selection of works from local and leading Scottish artists and makers. Paintings start around £300, with Kim Bramley’s little glass dishes from £20. Further along, you’ll find a range of specialist shops. JeanMarie at the French Patisserie produces the best baguettes in the city, while the String Studio seems to have violins and violas in a rainbow of shades. Remembering a sibling’s youthful attempts at learning
the violin, it’s probably best to restrict such gifts to family members who live far away. They are open by appointment. Elizabeth Watt’s store has a lovely selection of antiques and jewellery as well as staff with almost magical ceramics restoration skills. A Dental practice might seem a strange choice for a local shopping guide, but Andrew Scott Dental Care offer some excellent cosmetic dentistry services as well as facial aesthetics, so you could gift yourself a new smile and a more youthful look.
On the other side of the street, we were equally taken with the waffles at the Tasty Thistle Café and the array of colours on show when we peeked into A Yarn Tale. It was almost enough to make us take up knitting. Flower Vogue had a good selection of topiary, trailing ivy and houseplants to add some greenery to your home or front door, while Thistle Sports on the corner are particularly strong on racquet sports, swimming, hockey and rugby.
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Rose Street @hamishmunro has been a firm favourite with the city’s most stylish women for several decades, but somehow always has something fresh and new in store. They have some great winter wear in the form of Ilse Jacobsen’s waterproof jackets and EMU Australia’s comfy waterproof boots. Their biker boots have been the biggest footwear trend of the season and are an absolute must have. Everything is set out in colour co-ordinated sections and the staff are always happy to help you pull a look together. Also on Rose Street, Colin Wood Antiques is great for antique maps, ceramics and glassware if you’re looking for a one-off gift.
ILSE JACOBSEN JACKETS Waterproof & windproof. New styles & colours instore now! @hamishmunro 19-25 Thistle Street Aberdeen AB10 1UY something-for-me.co.uk
40 | SHOP LOCAL
Rosmount Place Once you’ve trekked up Esslemont Avenue, stopping if needs be at Cult of Coffee, turn left and you’ll find yourself at Cloudy Blue. This is a tempting gift shop with a good selection of unusual cards. There are lots of small things that would make good stocking fillers, from scented candles to stationery, but we were particularly taken with some of their books for pre-schoolers. Amy, who owns the store, is the illustrator of The Adventures of Max and Draggy. The story was written by her friend Rebecca Richmond and is engagingly interactive as Max and Draggy meet fairies and dragons. A perfect choice for some bedtime reading. Further up Rosemount Place, you’ll find Dancefit which has some cute tutus for would be ballerinas and then you’ll be met by the uplifting aroma of Four Seasons, the florist. There’s always a wonderful array of blooms and foliage no matter the time of year, cheering up even the dullest day. They always have amazing festive door wreath designs too. Humbug, the gorgeously traditional sweet shop, is almost guaranteed to bring a smile to your face, with its old fashioned jars, giant candy canes and cinder toffee. All it needs is a little snow and a scruffy urchin or two drooling at the perfection of confection and it’d be positively Dickensian. Those with less of a sweet tooth will find the Gourmet Cheese Shop equally enticing. As well as the best artisan cheese selection in town, you’ll find some excellent local bakery and eggs, continental sausages and a fabulous deli selection. One of the things we often forget about in town shopping is that you can buy almost anything. You could stroll along Rosemount Place and buy or rent a new home, get a kitchen or bathroom fitted,
redesign your interiors at Diane McBain, choose from the paints and wallcoverings at Kynoch and Robertson, sort out a new stove or get your boiler fixed and then get a bespoke wardrobe at Komandor and some prints from the Belvidere Gallery. Chief amongst Rosemount’s home-oriented stores is Alexanders of Rosemount. Alexanders has been furnishing homes since 1858, but now specialises in providing an eclectic range of floor coverings to suit modern living. It’s a complete end-to-end service that draws on a great deal of expertise. From the initial consultation through on-site measurement, quotes, delivery, installation and aftercare, you have the feeling that you’re being well taken care of. Whatever your style, they’ll have the perfect choice of flooring to suit. D. Nicoll, the fishmonger, is another long-term local favourite, having been around for several decades. It’s open with restricted hours from Wednesday to Saturday and has a great reputation for the freshest of fish. Charles Michie is always worth a browse for effective skincare products and luxury toiletries, while their Union Street flagship store has a great gift department. Further along, Herd’s the Butchers always manages to surprise with something inventive and new. It’s a farmer-owned butchers’ so the meat comes with excellent provenance. They do some inventive sausage recipes, gluten-free sausages and burgers, beautifully tender venison in season, and dishes
where they’ve done all the hard work for you. You’ll also find bakery products from The Bread Maker, a full deli section and local organic veg. It’s everything you’d want a butcher to be. Heading back down Rosemount Place, Grampian Pet Services was obviously finding favour with a beautifully behaved brown Collie who had wheedled a treat from the owner. Back near Esslemont Avenue, Rooted has a superb range of houseplants, especially cacti and sculptural succulents. Hendrix Hair has only been open since September, but it’s already a firm favourite with Rosemount locals. As well as holding several awards for her colour work, owner Kayleigh and her team already have the reputation of running one of the friendliest community salons in the city. As well as great cuts and colour, they have a way of making getting a trim enjoyable for kids. Over the road, Pasta Plus is a lovely little Italian deli and restaurant, currently offering takeaway orders too. We’d normally have had a look in at Wool for Ewe, but the shop was temporarily closed due to flooding. By the time you read this, it will hopefully be open again. If you need a seat by now, then Simple Bee have a great range of wraps and paninis as well as reviving coffee, while Crolla’s offer some of the city’s best ice cream, made fresh every day in the store.
AWARD-WINNING COLOUR SPECIALIST Inclusive salon, where everyone is welcome 108 Rosemount Place, Aberdeen AB25 2YW hendrixhair.co.uk
South Mount Street
and Rosemount Viaduct
FARMER-OWNED BUTCHER
Organic veg & local produce too!
• Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 8.30am - 5pm Sat 8am - 5pm 277 Rosemount Place Aberdeen AB25 2YB • herdbutchers.co.uk
• plastic free shop • refillery - bring your empty
container to refill • official peanut butter refill station • eco friendly, vegan, sustainable products • dry foods - pastas, pulses, nuts, rices, dry fruits, grains, flour, teas, coffees, herbs, spices • natural cosmetics & sustainable household products 281 Holburn Street, Aberdeen AB10 7FN rosemaryplanet @rosemaryplanetaberdeen
Heading downhill, you’ll pass Shampooches, where Rosemount’s most elegant mutts make sure they are looking their best, and it’s worth popping into Asia Mini Market, which has an extensive and often intriguing range of oriental ingredients. On Rosemount Viaduct, Seed Skateboards and Plan 9, the comic shop are great if you have
teens to buy for, or you could try Maid in Vinyl for retro records and the latest releases. Gordon Bell has a comprehensive range of traditional and electronic pianos and keyboards, both new and preowned, that will make you wish you’d progressed further than Chopsticks. Pop into The Bread Maker for your carbs-fix or you could get some tasteful ink at the Grey City Tattoo Shop nearby.
ADVERTISEMENTS | 43
Holburn Street Country Ways on Holburn Street is always a delight. As well as practical, country-style clothing for the whole family, they’re great for gifts like cashmere scarves and leather accessories. You can even pick up a new dog bed or a treat for a pony. Rosemary Planet, one of Holburn Street’s newest standout shops is at number 281. You’ll find convenient parking at Broomhill Road. It’s a great resource for anyone who wants to life a greener, more ecologically sound life. Everything is zero-waste and plastic free. You can bring your own containers or they have recycled jars available. There are refillable household cleaning products, a huge range of dried foods including pasta, herbs and spices, pulses and nuts, home-made soaps and organic toiletries. We loved the peanut butter machine and tempting treats like hot chocolate mixes, fudge, sweets and even marshmallows all of which are suitable for vegans. They even do gift hampers for Christmas.
One of the most encouraging signs on our shopping trip was that a number of new shops seemed to be opening. Gift shop Copper & Grey is a recent addition to Chapel Street, while Bloom, the new hair and beauty salon, was nearing completion on Thistle Street. A new fish shop is due to open at the top of Esslemont Avenue and a shop on Rosemount Place was being readied for a new retailer. If all that shopping has left you exhausted, drop your bags off back at the car and head to Union Street where you can enjoy a delicious restorative meal or pick up a takeaway at 8848. The multi award-winning Nepalese and Indian Restaurant is open from 2pm to 10pm Monday to Saturday and has a new menu packed with delicious specialities, many of which use local ingredients including fish and shellfish. It makes the perfect end to a day’s shopping.
Award-winning Nepalese & Indian cuisine Fresh, exciting new dishes and all your favourites Open 2-10pm Mon - Sat 8848restaurant.co.uk
NAL SEASO NS TIO SENSA
s e p i c e r e Festivom our fr te chefs favouri
hing f somet o s s la g ith a chen. ur self w r the kit e Arm yo g and head fo e festiv spar klin unded up som e. From ro at hom We’ve can tr y ey curr y to u o y s tur k recipe ’ve leftover t s e b bles, we e ib n th h is ore some m it covered… o g t
Café Boheme’s Posh poached eggs & warm mulled wine Gently poached eggs with a rich hollandaise sauce. You can serve it on toasted muffins, warm croissants or rye bread.
Try using duck eggs or adding smoked salmon, black pudding, or baby spinach with smoked bacon to make it really special. Allow two eggs per person. TO MAKE THE HOLLANDAISE 3 Egg yolks 160g Melted butter A splash of white wine vinegar A squeeze of lemon Chopped chives A pinch of smoked paprika
Add the egg yolks and vinegar to a metal bowl and whisk over a bain marie until double in volume and pale. Remove from the heat and slowly whisk in the melted butter. Season with salt, pepper, cayenne, lemon juice and chives. Place your poached eggs and whatever else you’ve chosen on your toasted muffins and pour the sauce over. TIP: If your hollandaise goes extremely stiff and begins to set, slowly add a couple of splashes of boiling water while whisking. Leave in a warm place until you are ready to serve.
eat on the green’s pimped up prawn cocktail WARM MULLED WINE 1 Bottle red wine, light and fruity works well 50ml Brandy 1 Cinnamon stick 1 teaspoon ground ginger 2 Star anise 5 Cloves 1 Orange, sliced 100ml Fresh orange juice (optional) 150g Brown sugar Bring all ingredients to a simmer in a large pan for five minutes then cool and allow to infuse overnight. Reheat gently before use.
Give the traditional prawn cocktail a new twist by adding flavours from a Pornstar Martini. 300g King prawns 1 Mini gem lettuce, washed and chilled 5 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup 2 Passion fruit (remove pulp & seeds from one, quarter the other) 1/2 Freshly squeezed lime Pinch of sea salt 1 teaspoon pink peppercorns 1 Shot vanilla vodka
Combine the mayo, tomato ketchup, the first passion fruit's pulp and seeds, fresh lime juice, sea salt and pink peppercorns and vodka. Set to one side. Pop four or five crisp little gem lettuce leaves into a martini cocktail glass. Next, take the king prawns and place into the sauce, ensuring they are generously covered. Place the prawns on top of the lettuce and garnish with quarter of a passion fruit and a wedge of lime. A teaspoon of crème fraiche on top works well too.
Teacake’s truffle roasted squash pearl barley risotto Teacake in Chapleton offer a delicious bistro menu at weekends and lunches, cakes and coffee during the week. ROAST SQUASH ½ Squash peeled & finely diced Clove of garlic, crushed Sprig of thyme or rosemary Salt & pepper to season Truffle oil Knob of butter
Sweat off the shallot and garlic in pan, add barley and thyme, slowly add stock. Stir frequently till risotto is cooked but retains a slight bite, season to taste.
In hot pan, sear the squash, garlic and herbs in truffle oil. Add the butter, salt and pepper. Remove from pan and roast in the oven at 180oC till cooked.
SQUASH PURÉE ½ Squash peeled, diced 800ml White wine & veg stock Chopped chives Salt & pepper Zest & juice of half an orange Pinch of allspice
BARLEY RISOTTO Clove of garlic peeled, finely diced 1 Banana shallot peeled, finely diced 800ml White wine & veg stock Sprig of thyme 2 cups Pearl barley Salt & pepper
Bring stock to boil with allspice, orange zest and juice. Add the squash and cook till soft. Drain, but reserve some of the liquid. Blitz the squash to a smooth purée, season to taste and add chopped chives. If too thick add a little of the reserved liquid.
ROAST ALMONDS Roast almonds in oven at 180oC, remove once coloured and season. CRANBERRY DRESSING 1 Shallot, peeled, cored & quartered ½ cup Fresh cranberries ¼ cup Extra-virgin olive oil ¼ cup Walnut oil 2 teaspoons Red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon Chopped fresh thyme 1 teaspoon Maple syrup or honey ½ teaspoon Salt ¼ teaspoon Freshly ground pepper Blitz all ingredients till smooth and desired thickness. Sweeten with more honey if needed.
CRISPY SAGE Bunch of sage leaves Oil Salt Fry sage leaves for a few seconds till crisp. Dry on a paper towel and sprinkle with salt. Warm the purée and add barley, place in centre of plate, placing roasted squash around plate. Scatter the roasted nuts and crispy sage. Drizzle with cranberry dressing, garnish with micro-sorrel leaves.
FESTIVE FOOD | 47
the esslemont’s mulled berry cranachan This dessert has two main components, a whisky syllabub and a mulled berry compote. The syllabub gets made the day before and is left to set in the fridge before the berries are added just before serving. WHISKY SYLLABUB The zest of three lemons 80ml lemon juice 60ml whisky 32g caster sugar 240ml double cream
MULLED BERRIES COMPOTE 100ml mulled wine 60g sugar 500g fresh/frozen berries 1 tsp cornflour A handful of oats
Place lemon juice, lemon zest and whisky in a bowl and leave to infuse for 3-6 hours. Stir in the sugar, then strain off the liquid. Whip the cream to soft peaks and slowly add whisky/lemon mixture. Spoon the mixture into glasses to around half way full and leave to set overnight
Mix the cornflour with a splash of mulled wine and heat in a pan until smooth, then add sugar and the rest of the wine. Once fully mixed, add the berries, cover and boil for about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and cool. Spoon the cooled compote on top of the syllabub. Toast a handful of oats until golden brown and sprinkle on top of cranachan.
jewel in the crown’s turkey masala This simple and easy to make recipe is the perfect way to use the leftover turkey. Serve it with pilau or steamed rice, naan bread or a pile of poppadoms. Cooked turkey (this recipe also works well with chicken) 2 teaspoons Ghee or vegetable oil 1 Chopped onion 2-3 Cloves of garlic 1-2 inches of peeled fresh ginger 1 teaspoon of each of the following: ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, paprika & curry powder 1 Cinnamon stick A tin of plum tomatoes Salt & pepper to taste 2 teaspoons Mango chutney Turkey or chicken stock 2 teaspoons of natural unsweetened or greek yogurt
Heat the oil up in the pan Blitz the onion, garlic and ginger into a paste in a food processor. Put to one side, then do the same with the tomatoes. Heat the oil in a large saucepan, then fry the onion paste to a golden colour, stirring frequently. Add the ground spices and cinnamon stick. Cook this for 2 or 3 minutes to release the aroma. Add the blitzed tomatoes and sufficient chicken stock to create a creamy consistency for the sauce, simmer gently for five or six minutes. Add the mango chutney. Simmer gently. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken stock or water. Gently fold in the cooked turkey and add the yogurt. Once the turkey is properly warmed through, remove from the heat and serve with rice.
malmaison’s nibbles Each dish serves four people HONEY & MUSTARD PIGS IN BLANKETS 8 pigs in blankets 150g honey 100g wholegrain mustard Small skewers Place the pigs in blankets on a baking tray in a preheated oven at 180oC for about 12 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a frying pan over a medium heat. Pour on the honey and mustard. Make sure the sausages are well coated, becoming nice and caramelised. Stick a skewer through each one and serve. TURKEY, STUFFING & CRANBERRY SLIDERS 320g roast turkey breast 100g sage and onion stuffing 100g cranberry sauce 1 little gem lettuce 1 beefsteak tomato 4 small brioche buns 100g mayonnaise Lightly toast the brioche buns, split and spoon mayonnaise on the bottom half. Top with a lettuce leaf or two, a slice of tomato, turkey, stuffing and finally the cranberry sauce. Put the lid of the bun back on and place a small skewer through the bun to hold everything in place.
SMOKED SALMON ROULADE WITH CRÈME FRAICHE 150g cooked salmon 100g smoked salmon 1 shallot (fine diced) 20g chopped fresh dill 20g chopped fresh tarragon 20g chopped chives Zest of ½ lemon 1 tablespoon creamed horseradish 75g butter 75g double cream 50g crème fraiche Lay a piece of cling film on a flat surface and lay the smoked salmon on top, making a rectangle about 5 inches by 3 inches. Combine the cooked salmon with shallot, dill, tarragon, chives, lemon zest and creamed horseradish in a heatproof bowl. Bring the butter and cream to the boil in a pan and add this to the bowl. Mix and season and season with salt and black pepper. Spread this mixture over the smoked salmon evenly. Roll up tightly to form a sausage shape, making sure the cling film surrounds the parcel but isn’t in it. Leave to set for 30 minutes or more in the fridge. Slice into 4 and pipe some crème fraiche on top, finish with zested lemon.
FESTIVE FOOD | 51
The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa’s Beef Bourguignon This recipe serves four people, but can be doubled for a bigger crowd round the table. FOR THE BEEF BOURGUIGNON 2 tablespoons Plain flour Salt & ground black pepper 1kg Chuck steak, cut into large cubes 2 tablespoons Olive oil 150g Smoked pancetta, cut into small chunks 1 Large onion, finely chopped 1 Clove of garlic, crushed 500ml Red wine 250ml Beef stock 1 Bouquet garni (bay leaves, sprigs thyme, sprigs flatleaf parsley, often wrapped in a square of muslin) 25g Butter 18 Peeled baby shallots 200g Chestnut mushrooms, cut in half
Dredge the beef in the seasoned flour and set aside.
FOR THE POTATOES 1kg Floury potatoes such as Rooster, peeled & cut into chunks 110g Butter 60ml Cream Salt & ground black pepper
Cook the potatoes in a pan of boiling salted water for 15-18 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Drain and return to the pan to dry off any excess moisture. Mash the potatoes, then add the butter and cream. Beat with a wooden spoon until smooth. Season to taste with salt and ground black pepper.
FOR THE CABBAGE 1 Head of Savoy cabbage, cut into squares 110g Butter Salt & ground black pepper
Boil the cut cabbage in salted water for 10-15 minutes or until tender but still with a bite. Drain and return to the pan, add the butter and season with ground black pepper.
Heat one tablespoon of the olive oil in a large pan and fry the smoked pancetta for 1-2 minutes, or until golden-brown. Add the beef and fry for a further 4-5 minutes, or until browned on each side. Add the chopped onion and garlic and fry for another 4-5 minutes, or until just beginning to soften. Add the wine and beef stock and bring to a simmer. Add the bouquet garni, then cover and cook on a low heat for two hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Heat the butter and remaining oil in a pan and fry the whole baby shallots for 4-5 minutes then add the shallots and chestnut mushrooms to the beef casserole and cook for another 20 minutes. Season to taste with salt and ground black pepper.
Serve with crusty bread for mopping up the gravy and an Argentinian Malbec.
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ASK THE CHEF | 53
Slow cookers are a great option for having a home-cooked one pot meal ready for dinner. Prep your ingredients in the morning, pop them in to your slow cooker, get on with your day and come home to a delicious aroma and dinner all ready and waiting.
EAT ON THE GREEN’S CRAIG WILSON SHARES SOME IDEAS FOR NO-FUSS
© Shutterstock/From my point of view
SLOW COOKER MEALS
Try sweet and smoky meatballs. They’re really simple to make. For the sauce, sauté off some onion, garlic and fresh chilli in rape seed oil. Then add barbecue sauce, tomato passata, oregano and a splash of whisky or bourbon. Once the sauce is simmering nicely, brown off the meatballs in a pan, then add to the sauce to finish cooking in your slow cooker. Chorizo, red onion and three bean cassoulet is another favourite, not least because it’s great for using up store cupboard essentials. Quarter a red onion, dice the chorizo, then add a drained can of butter beans, a can of
haricot beans, a can of kidney beans and a can of tomato soup. Switch on the slow cooker and let all those delicious flavours come together. Chicken thighs are perfect for slow cooker curries and stews, they soak up flavour and are cheap to buy. Add ginger, fresh chilli, chopped coriander and a can of coconut milk, and some diced sweet potato, leave it to cook all day and you’ve got a lovely Thai inspired meal. All of these dishes can also be made using Quorn or another meat substitute. Try a mushroom risotto in your slow cooker. Just sauté off your onion and garlic, add the rice, stock, Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme and cream for an indulgent, tasty dish the whole family will enjoy. Minimum effort for maximum results. What’s not to love?
54 | IN-BRIEF
Historic Environment Scotland funds two local heritage projects The Sail Loft Bunkhouse in Portsoy and a project to develop an ecomuseum in Old Torry are set to benefit from funding as part of Scotland’s Year of Coast and Waters. Portsoy Community Enterprise has been awarded £8,625 to install flood defences to protect access to the B-listed Sail Loft Bunkhouse in Portsoy. The bunkhouse, which is currently run as a hostel, is at risk of flooding as a result of climate change. The funding will assist the Portsoy Community Enterprise
with ensuring the continued use and increased resilience of the building. £3,000 has also been awarded to the Old Torry Community Centre Association to develop an ecomuseum. As part of the project, an interactive map will be developed with the wider community and a pictorial timeline will be created showing the changing social, transport and business usage of the coastal and waterway environment.
New MD for Aberdeen communication firm Aberdeen print and communications firm Jasmine has appointed a new managing director, Steve Clark. Danny Cowie, who was previously managing director at the firm, will be taking the role of chairman. Steve commented, ‘Jasmine is a very impressive company, with a great team and impressive printing facility. I have no doubt that we will
be able to work together to drive the company forward and build on the company’s strong reputation. ‘There is no doubt this is a challenging time to join any company, but I am confident that the Jasmine team, with its superior skills and experience, is in a great place to come out of the pandemic in a strong position.’
H3ome is where th2e heart2 is... Thank y3ou f2or l2etting5Eat3 on the Green2 into y2ours 2020 will be a year none of us will forget, but we hope that our food has helped you share some special, unforgettable moments. We truly appreciate all of your support.
56 | ADVERTISEMENTS
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f your social calendar looks depressingly empty, then make the most of the chance to stay in and slob out. It’s all about cosying up and getting cooried down till spring. Go for fake fur, sheepskin, blankets and throws. Nest amongst the cushions. Velvet provides a sensuous edge, while tassels, pompoms and trims make it look like a style statement rather than a forced exile from the bedroom to the couch. If your home really is your castle, then this look is best accessorised with a roaring fire, a good book and a couple of Irish Wolfhounds curled up beside you. Alternatively, settle in with your favourite feel-good box set, a mug of hot chocolate, a huge jumper worn over pyjama bottoms, cosy socks and the pet or partner of your choice. Bliss‌
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We understand that no two cases are the same and offer a personal service tailored to individual clients during what are undoubtedly difficult and traumatic times in their lives. The Aberdeen team continues to grow from strength to strength. We also offer Private client and property services. We can provide advice on a range of matters including: + + + + +
Personal injury & medical negligence claims Employment law Family law Residential property Private client
42 Carden Place, Aberdeen Tel: 01224 498080 balfour-manson.co.uk
60 | IN-BRIEF
Local Person-centred Counsellor offers free initial consultation
CALA Homes unveils new showhome at Cults Park CALA Homes has unveiled an impressive showhome at its flagship development in Cults which is on the market for £1.395 million. The Roxburgh at Cults Park has been styled by Haus Interiors to showcase the understated elegance of this showpiece five-bedroom family home.
balcony located off the landing, an expansive family bathroom and five generously sized bedrooms, three of which have an en-suite. The property also boasts a separate double garage with annex located above - the perfect area for a teenage hangout, a home office, gym or guest space.
It has a spacious kitchen/dining/ living area as well as a separate formal lounge, dining room and study. The first floor features a
The sales office and showhome is open daily for personal visits by appointment. For further information on CALA Homes, visit cala.co.uk
Nicholas Fong of Aberdeen Reflection Counselling is offering a free initial consultation to new clients who may be experiencing a loss of self-esteem or mental wellbeing concerns. Nicholas explained,‘Covid-19 has changed our lives in different ways. Lots of us have been feeling the strain of loneliness, added stress at work or at home, or even the sad loss of a loved one. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
‘Aberdeen Reflection Counselling offers a safe and non-judgmental space to help you manage your thoughts and feelings and overcome any issues you may have.’ You can find out more about Nicholas and his counselling services at aberdeenreflectioncounselling.com or by calling 07709132678.
PORNSTAR
BELLINI A
swanky twist of a modern day classic cocktail and a timeless liberation. We have taken inspiration from a Pornstar Martini and a Bellini to bring a match made in heaven. This bottle serve has passion fruit, vanilla vodka and white wine which is carbonated in-house to create an effervescent, tropical & slightly sweet tasting cocktail. orchidcocktails.com
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
photos of a one bedroom flat at 46 Gilcomston Park
YOUR PERFECT RENTAL HOME
and Margaret Duffus, both members of the Association of Residential Lettings (ARLA) Agents, so you know we’re fully compliant with all testing and legislation in place. Deposits and inventory management is overseen to the highest standard required by ARLA.
I
f you’re seeking a new flat to call home, Skene House has over ninety apartments for rent in three West End and city centre locations. Choose from one to three bedrooms, all in close proximity to the main shopping centres, attractions, bars and restaurants. Every Skene House apartment comes fully furnished, and there’s something to suit every lifestyle and budget. We have apartments that come with a home office, car parking and highspeed Wi-Fi packages. Most have access to landscaped areas or gardens. Skene House is a local family business which has been renting apartments in Aberdeen since 1972. We’re known for our high standards of customer
Discover more and to find out about our rental incentives at skene-house.co.uk service, and our continuous investment in keeping our property portfolio in excellent order. We have our own full-time maintenance team on hand, so when you rent with us, we can quickly fix any emergency and essential repairs. As a member of the Scottish Landlord Association, we work with respected local estate agents, Aberdein Considine
Aberdein Considine / acandco.com Tel: 0333 00 66 333 Margaret Duffus / mdleasing.co.uk Tel: 01224 810131 For corporate housing, extended stay and serviced apartment enquiries please contact Hanna Marjamaki, reservations@skene-house.co.uk, or call 01224 659392.
This year, our gardens have become so much more than just a place for kids to play or to grow a few shrubs. They’ve become essential to our mental wellbeing, a source of home grown food and a place of sanctuary. As winter sets in, many of us find our gardens too cold and bleak to spend time in, but there are many ways to make your garden welcoming whatever the weather. We need to think about shelter, lighting, heating, food and planting.
© Shutterstock/Juliya Shangarey
When it comes to shelter, options range from a patio umbrella to awnings which stretch out from the house or gazebos, all of which offer temporary forms of shelter. Look for something that can be easily erected and dismantled and that allows some flexibility in configuration. You can even get an inflatable gazebo. If space is at a premium, consider a retractable side windbreak. You can mount these onto paving or a hard surface and it functions as a privacy screen too. If you’d prefer a permanent option, then there are lots of decorative screens you can use to create space for socialising.
The next requirement for outdoor living in the garden over winter is definitely heating. The Japanese have Kotatsu, a heated integrated combination of padded seating, a table top and a blanket. You can also get wall mounted infra-red heaters or go for a gazebo or an umbrella that comes with heating. However, it you want to create a really cosy atmosphere, then go for a real fire. This can be in the form of an outdoor fireplace, fire pit, fire globe, fire bowl or a chiminea. The mesmerising flickering flame and sound of crackling embers is hard to beat.
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Lighting can really create atmosphere in the garden and you can combine all sorts of types of lighting to create a real party space. Consider festoon lights, magical fairy lights or go for lights in jars and bottles. You can use LED plant pots to highlight a favourite plant or install deck lighting. What really brings us together outdoors is food (and maybe a cheeky wee cocktail). You can go for a BBQ, step up to an outdoor kitchen or go old school with baked potatoes cooked in the ashes of your fire. Lastly, don’t forget the planting! As well as evergreens for structure, there are plenty of plants with coloured stems, berries or flowers that add a bit of colour and interest to the winter garden. Look for hardy plants. Gaultheria procumbens and lots of varieties of Skimmia offer visually appealing berries. Skimmia Magic Marlot has deep raspberry bloom and scent, while Skimmia Pabella has huge red berries. Hellebores offer a huge variety of colours from white through pale yellows, greens and purples. The dogwoods have coloured stems which create interest, while hollies come in some attractive variegated forms and will produce berries if you have both male and female plants. Try Ilex aquifolium ‘Silver Queen’ (male) and Ilex x altaclerensis ‘Golden King’ (female). Being outdoors with friends can be just the tonic we need to keep us in good shape. With the right attitude and a bit of preparation, we can all enjoy our outdoor space to the max!
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Since 2017, Charlotte Garvie, the Christmas expert and owner of The Christmas Decorators, has wowed corporate and private clients across the North-east with her breath-taking festive displays perfectly capturing the magic of Christmas. Here’s her take on how to decorate a tree worth talking about…
C2ount2down2 to Christ3mas
T
he countdown to Christmas is truly on and with people trying to bring some much needed joy to their lives amid all the cancelled events and parties, we are seeing a trend for even more extravagant festive displays being created at home.
Traditionally Christmas decorations go up on the first day of advent, but this year there are no rules as
people try to salvage what’s left of 2020 and bring some Christmas magic into their homes. So, if you’re ready for some Christmas cheer, get your decorations out of storage and turn your living room into a Christmas wonderland. At the Christmas Decorators, we use artificial trees, simply because they last longer for our clients and don’t make any mess. If you’re
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buying a new artificial tree, I would highly recommend buying a pre-lit tree. This means you don’t have to untangle any lights or break up the visual impact with stripes across the tree. When you take the tree out of the box, it’s really important to invest some time in fluffing it. By making sure that all your branches are puffed out and there are no holes you’ll get a much more uniform finish which gives the perfect backdrop for your beautiful decorations. We like to start decorating the tree with lengths of material. This really helps to fill it up and give it a luxurious look. You can do this with swathes of velvet, silk or
mesh - there are a huge range of choices in fabric or haberdashery shops, or even try your local garden centre. As long as your material is pliable it should work well. Thread the material through the tree at an angle from top to bottom as a starting point before adding any of your smaller details.
To add the finishing touches we use ornaments which you can pop into the tree and secure with either the branches or floristry wire again. Using unusual decor, perhaps linked to a theme or colour scheme can really add an extra level of detail to your decorating making it eyecatching and memorable.
We like to use a mixture of shatter proof and glass baubles. Instead of using the normal string hangers we use floristry wire to attach them to the tree. This makes them a lot more secure and means they will stay exactly where you want them to, especially if you have inquisitive pets. It’s also an idea for any treasured family heirlooms that you really don’t want to fall off and break.
To see more festive hints and tips from Charlotte, follow Trend’s Instagram at instagram.com/ trendaberdeen Find out more about The Christmas Decorators by getting in touch with Charlotte at The Minklets, Crathes, Banchory, AB31 5QQ Tel: 01224 928543 or 07758 129 750 thechristmasdecorators.com
68 | KIDS
Expectations are high and everyone’s claiming that they’re on Santa’s nice list this year. Seriously, there haven’t been so many little angels around since St. Winifred’s School Choir topped the charts. Between home schooling, travel bans and restrictions on kids’ activities, many parents and relatives are planning to make Christmas a little special this year. Other families will be reining in their spending thanks to furlough and redundancies. It’s all about finding toys which engage, which will be played with and which will be loved and that doesn’t necessarily mean the most expensive playthings. Whether you plan to spend a fiver or a few hundred, here’s our pick of the best toys from tots to teens this Christmas.
BABIES
PRE-SCHOOLERS
Babies can be quite difficult to buy for. They already have piles of toys, cot mobiles, rattles and baby gyms all received as New Baby gifts and it can be a while before they really interact with toys. It’s tempting to buy something extravagant for a toddler instead, but this just leads to storage problems for the parents.
There are tons of imaginative role-play toys for this age group. Look for wooden kitchens and play food, shops and market stalls, or puppet theatres. Dressing up clothes and career-based toys like doctors’ kits generally go down well, as will toys connected to their favourite TV programmes, like Peppa Pig, Paw Patrol or any number of Disney Princesses.
Look for things that can be treasured as they grow up. Charles Michies on Union Street stock Steiff soft toys while Hape, Melissa & Doug and brands like Fisher-Price and Lamaze have lots of simple toys, some of which can be used from birth. Specialist baby shops are the best place to look for good quality playthings with safety in mind. Alternatively, a collection of picture books can start a lifelong interest in reading or you could seek out a personalised gift with the baby’s name on it.
Some children become obsessed by dinosaurs, space, princesses or even vacuum cleaners at this stage, so it’s easy to find a miniature version that should bring hours of delight. Ride on cars and rocking horses are also popular and toy musical instruments, whether it’s a drum kit, miniature piano or a colourful xylophone, can make great gifts depending on how much space and patience you have. If you’d prefer something quieter, go for a balance bike.
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AGE 5-7
AGE 7-10
The animatronic Baby Yoda is the hot ticket this year, if you can find one. Animatronic pets are becoming ever more realistic, so look for puppies, kittens, rabbits, dinosaurs and dragons that combine cuteness with lots of interesting actions.
Children this age range tend to be beguiled by creative and imaginative toys. Lego kits, particularly those that show locations from a favourite book or film tend to go down well. Both Smyth’s Toys and Toy Town in the Trinity Centre offer a wide range of LEGO kits for all budgets and interests as do Strachan’s in Inverurie. Harry Potter kits remain popular and The Mandalorian is a new favourite this Christmas.
Kids this age become quite brand conscious, so letters to Santa are likely to be crammed with requests for Marvel Superheroes playsets and figures, NERF guns, spin-offs from video games like Call of Duty and Fortnite and stuff from LOL Surprise. Arts and crafts materials go down well, but choose washable paints in case Picasso Junior decides to redecorate.
If your child’s an apprentice wizard, just waiting on a letter from Hogwarts, or just a bit of a performer, then Marvin’s Magic do a great wooden box packed full of tricks for £29.99 from marvinsmagic.com. They have a wide range of tricks and kits, with prices starting at under £6.
Look for games the whole family can play and that kids can easily cheat at. Anything with a theme of dubious bodily excretions that comes with rude sound effects is considered hilarious.
Sports equipment, bikes, scooters and outdoor toys like trampolines or climbing frames as well as gifts like tablets and video cameras combine fun with fitness and developing useful skills.
Sometimes having private own space is important, so indoor play tents and tepees make a thoughtful gift, or go with a den making kit for outdoor types. Bikes also allow a degree of freedom.
Educational toys can be a bit hit and miss, but there are lots of STEM toys and kits out there for future scientists or you could go with a games console the entire family can use.
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AGE 10-12
TEENAGERS
This is where present buying becomes more awkward, as kids this age tend to think of themselves as grown-ups. They particularly tend to think of themselves as grown-ups who need the latest iPhone, a PS5, pierced ears and their own channel on TikTok.
Teenagers often prefer to choose their own gifts, so cash or vouchers for their favourite stores, games consoles or the app store is generally appreciated. They’ll still need something to unwrap, so cute stationery from Flying Tiger, Paperchase, Typo or Smiggle as well as journals, books and board games can be a winner here. Try Pass the Pugs £9.99 from winningmoves.co.uk or encourage musical skills with something like this Build it Yourself Ukelele kit, £26, which is available from Amazon.
Big ticket items which will win you some brownie points - at least for an hour or two - include mobile phones, headphones, video games, laptops, gaming PCs and stuff to create a gaming setup such as large monitors, chairs and desks. Vouchers or cash are also acceptable. Sometimes an experience they can share with friends is the way to go. Consider wrist bands for a trip to Codona’s, vouchers for a trampoline park or horse riding session, concert tickets or a trip to the cinema when it reopens.
Most of the major cosmetics brands do good value gift sets if your teenager fancies themselves as make up guru and both Superdrug and Boots have a series of gifts of the week that can help stretch the budget.
If you’re looking for presents that the whole family can enjoy, John Lewis, Argos and Waterstones all have Richard Osman’s House of Games at £25. It’s a good one because there are so many games, everyone will find one they’re good at. You could also try a jigsaw puzzle from Carnovsky which features overprinted images in different colours and special glasses to help you solve the puzzle. You’ll find the range on Amazon for £15. All you have to do now is work out how to wrap everything and find a place to stash it away from explorative little eyes.
2021 DATES FOR YOUR DIARIES
SPEC PERFECT F IAL OR event OCCASIO ANY s@tre ndma N, CONTAC gazin FOR e.co.u T k INFOR MORE MATIO N
26 MARCH
23 APRIL
Fashion Lunch
Garden Party
th
rd
MALMAISON 12.30 - 4pm
THE MARCLIFFE HOTEL & SPA 1pm - 4pm
Come and enjoy a fabulous 2 course lunch with a glass of fizz on arrival, a goodie bag and much more. The fashion from some of Aberdeen’s best loved stores will be show-casing their spring/summer collections.
Enjoy an elegant afternoon in a beautiful venue wearing your finest Garden Party attire with the chance to win Best Dressed Lady and Hat of the Day. Enjoy a sumptuous Afternoon Tea with a glass of champagne on arrival.
TICKETS | TBC
TICKETS | TBC
For more details and to book tickets visit: trendmagazine.co.uk
72 | TRAVEL
Dream destination: Barbados
Barbados lies in the blue seas of the Caribbean and is part of the Lesser Antilles island group, but there’s nothing lesser about the island as a winter break holiday destination. At over 400 km2, and a population roughly the same as the shire, it’s big enough to offer plenty of places to visit, without feeling like you’re missing out on many of the sights.
A
s it lies outside the hurricane belt, it’s a great year-round destination, with temperatures ranging from 28-31OC across the year, with rain more likely from July to October. Around 40% of travellers to the island are from the UK.
Bridgetown has UNESCO World Heritage Status for the historic old town and the garrison, reminders of a colonial past. It’s not always an easy history and the government has just removed a statue of Horatio Nelson which stood in the city centre. There’s the
usual mix of cathedrals and churches, government buildings, museums and small shops to explore. Many of the less grand buildings are brightly painted. Grab a snack from a café and watch the yachts and small craft sail in and out of the Careenage canal which allows access to the harbour and marina. Normally, the deep harbour berths are filled with huge cruise ships, but this winter, Barbados may be less crowded, allowing more opportunities to discover your own special beach bar or secluded cove. The Pelican Village and Craft Centre is worth a visit if you’re looking for local handicrafts,
while cricket lovers can snooze gently through the sound of leather on willow at the Kensington Oval. You can even cheer on a winner or two at the Turf Club horse races every second Saturday. The Sandy Lane Cup is the Caribbean equivalent of the Grand National and takes place in early March. Stay at the five star Coral Reef Club, which is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World Group. It’s on the calm West Coast near the settlement of Holetown. It’s a beguiling mix of landscaped lush tropical planting and traditionally designed buildings with shutters and wooden balustrades. The food, service, atmosphere and sense of relaxation
© Shutterstock/icemanphotos
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is unrivalled on the island. Limegrove offers upscale designer shopping and Holetown’s Chattel Village is a cute collection of pastel coloured shops each filled with local delights such as swimwear, jewellery, furniture or craftwork. Spend your time snorkelling or taking a day trip out to the coral reefs, charter a yacht or simply spend your days on the beach. The island is family friendly and there’s lots for children to explore in safety. The botanic gardens are worth a visit, but keen horticulturalist should book tickets for Hunte’s Gardens, where the owner has created an amazing garden from a huge sinkhole. He also does a mean rum punch. Talking of which, it’s possible to take a tour which combines Hunte’s Gardens with Mount Gay Distillery.
The distillery has been producing some of the finest rum in the Caribbean since 1703, and the guides are entertaining and have a passion for their product. Keen photographers and naturalists will enjoy one of the island’s wildlife tours, spotting everything from sea turtles to monkeys. Barbados is one of those places you’ll visit and find yourself checking house prices in estate agents’ windows. It might be worth considering as Barbadian Prime Minister, Mia Mottley has suggested that people who worked remotely should take advantage of the island’s warm weather, sandy beaches, great food and enjoy an extended stay on the island. The ideal of being able to conduct Zoom meetings in the shade of swaying palms has its appeal!
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Aberdeenshire aromatherapist launches natural oils Local clinical aromatherapist Kathryn McIntosh has just launched a new range of natural plant oils for the hair, face and body for her re:treat Apothecary business. The blended plant and essential oils are organic,
zero-waste, plastic free and suitable for vegans. Kathryn handcrafts the oils in Aberdeenshire. The new oils join her popular range of natural deodorants. Find out more at retreataberdeenshire.com
Science Centre joins district heating network Aberdeen Science Centre is now connected to Aberdeen Heat & Power’s district heating network. This is expected to deliver almost an 80% saving in carbon emissions. The connection was made in late November with ASC CEO Bryan Snelling flipping the new power supply switch. The science centre’s heat and power comes from the adjacent Beach Leisure Centre Energy Centre which is, in turn,
directly linked to AH&P’s main city centre generation plant at Seaton. Aberdeen Heat & Power Ltd is an independent not-for-profit company which was established in 2002 by Aberdeen City Council to address fuel poverty in its housing stock. The company uses low carbon sources of power which is distributed through district heat networks to homes and public and private buildings.
76 | CREATIVE
Sweet like candy I
'm a country girl at heart. As children, my sisters and I spent most of our time at the Aberdeenshire farm where my dad worked or at the beach looking for crabs in the rock pools. After leaving school I took the portfolio course at Gallowgate College before heading to Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in Dundee. By the end of my first year I knew textiles was for me. After completing my degree in Constructed Textiles in 2003, I started to develop my business while working as an accessories designer at Johnstone’s of Elgin. I then became a merchandise buyer and designer at BrewDog. This combination has really given me the experience to take Candy Coated Accessories to the next level. I produce most of my work in my small design studio at home, bringing together my skills in knitting and sewing to produce a varied collection of products that includes luxury knitted scarves and hot water bottle covers to cotton baby accessories. When creating a new design, I begin by looking for a bold pattern. It might be a wallpaper print, wrapping paper, fabric or something on Pinterest that attracts me. It can take me quite a few attempts to plot out a pattern on grid paper before transferring it to a blank punch card that's suitable for my trusty old knitting machine. Sometimes I realise that it doesn't work
MEET FIONA ROSS OF CANDY COATED ACCESSORIES, WHO IS BEST KNOWN FOR HER GEOMETRIC KNITS & VIBRANT COLOURS… and start over again. Once I have a design that I like that's when the fun starts. I order new yarn for that season, knit lots of colour swatches, wash, dry and press them and then decide which colour ways will be used. I usually pick three per collection as I like odd numbers! Bright colours and geometric patterns have always inspired me and I feel this is definitely reflected in my work. I think the mixture of modern geometric designs made by traditional techniques complement each other perfectly giving me an exciting collection. Sustainability matters to me. People seem much keener to seek out handmade products or items that will last the test of time. More people are becoming aware of the environmental impact we have on the planet and do want to change their buying habits. I do what I can by using recyclable packaging or using eco detergents to wash and process my knitting. My goal is to design in house but use a manufacturer so I can grow the business, spending more time on design, marketing
and growing my distribution channels. I’ll keep all manufacturing in Scotland as I never want to not be able to say 'Made in Scotland'. My work is available via my Etsy shop and I’m hoping to have an online store on my own website soon. I’m stocked in Fold at the Barn in Banchory and at Jane Keenan Designs at Henderson’s up in Maud. I’m also taking part in several virtual online markets this winter, keep an eye on my social media channels by searching candycoatedscot, where all details will be posted. etsy.com/uk/shop/CandyCoatedShop candy-coated.com
Š Shutterstock/Cienpies Design
Š Visit Aberdeenshire
We already know that this Christmas is likely to be radically different from those which have gone before.
Yet many of the traditions we associate with the festive season date back only as far as the Victorians, while others can trace their roots back to pagan times.
their fireball a few yards to the house of friends and neighbours to bring in the New Year before developing into a full blown procession that ends with the fireballs being hurled into the harbour.
Restrictions on how many people can meet may seem like a new idea, but the Scottish Parliament went even further back in 1640, passing a law that made celebrating ‘Yule vacation and all observation thereof in time coming,’ illegal. For many years, Christmas was less of a celebration in Scotland than New Year and lots of people worked on Christmas Day. It wasn’t until 1958 that 25th December became a Scottish public holiday, while Boxing Day took till 1974.
The Moray coastal village of Burghead has their own unique fire ceremony on 11 January each year. The Burning of the Clavie is thought to date from the 1700s, originating from the protests over the introduction of the Gregorian calendar. The residents of Burghead decided that two parties were better than one, so they embraced the shift to the new calendar and marked the start of both the Gregorian and Julian calendar dates for the New Year.
The tradition of putting silver sixpences in our Christmas puddings is thought to be a remnant of an old winter custom from many European countries. A bean would be baked into a cake and the man who found the bean in his slice became King of the Bean. Naturally, as king, he could order his subjects about and could expect the best of the festive fare during what were known as the Daft Days. These may have their roots in the Roman festival of Saturnalia, which took place from December 17th to 23rd and featured silly gifts, pranks, carnivals and parties and the overturn of the social hierarchy, with festivities presided over by the Lord of Misrule. In the North East, we have two main fire festivals associated with the passing of the old year and the start of the new. Stonehaven’s Fireball Ceremony may evoke notions of an ancient pagan tradition to drive off evil spirits, but it’s a Victorian reimagining. Although COVID restrictions mean this year’s event is cancelled, the ceremony has taken place for more than a hundred years. Initially, Stonehaven’s men would swinging
During the Burning of the Clavie, a large crowd carries a drum full of burning wooden staves and tar around the town to the Doorie Hill, where the barrel is firmly wedged and allowed to burn out, to bring good fortune for the coming year. It’s not get clear whether the event will be able to take place in 2021. Hogmanay was celebrated all over Scotland, with tall, dark and handsome men were preferred as first footers - the first visitors of the New Year - as they brought good fortune and good luck with then. Gifts of coal, salt and bread which symbolised warmth, plentiful food and wealth were often brought in, as was whisky. Rowan twigs might be burnt to get rid of ill-feeling or resentment amongst family and friends. Some people liked to clean their homes on Hogmanay, this custom was known as redding and ensured good luck and prosperity the following year. It was, however, bad luck to clean the house or do laundry on New Year’s Day as this could clear good fortune away. That’s our excuse anyway!
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ROBIN MACPHERSON OF ROBERT GORDON’S COLLEGE
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I
grew up in Huntly so it’s wonderful to be back home in the North East of Scotland. My family moved to Edinburgh then I studied Modern History at Oxford. After university, I became a chef. Working in a kitchen requires a strong work ethic and the ability to perform under intense pressure. When I had a chance to go into teaching, I realised that was what I really wanted to do. After getting married, we moved to Dubai and spent three years teaching in a brand new school. It presented new challenges every day and crisis management became the norm - something that prepared me well for 2020! My next move was to Wellington College in Berkshire. The Master was Sir Anthony Seldon, and he remains one of my biggest educational influences. He made me think on a much bigger scale. I worked in teacher education, becoming content director for the Telegraph Festival of Education. I went into publishing, public speaking and events management and these are things that I really enjoy doing. When we started a family, we moved to Dollar Academy. We wanted our children to have a strong, Scottish education. When the chance came to join Robert Gordon’s I knew it was
the perfect fit. It really is tailored to my experience, values and educational philosophy. It strikes a great balance between innovation and tradition, underpinned by a strong sense of ambition. Our two young children attend nursery, so mornings are a flurry of activity with getting fed, dressed and out the door. The end of the day is about getting home for a family dinner and the bedtime routine. Every day is different. I have to deal with a lot of situations as a head teacher that emerge suddenly, but I make sure that I spend time on creative and strategic work so that we are always forward thinking. I have a great team of senior leaders and the staff are so committed, so there is a strong sense of purpose. We're extremely lucky with the pupils we have, and if I had one wish it would be to spend more time teaching. I still teach S2 history so I've not lost touch with the craft of teaching. Spare time is family time for us, and weekends are a bit of a novelty after working for so long in boarding schools. We explore the beautiful parks and beaches in the North East or catching up with a good series on Netflix. I’m an avid football fan and make time for running and golf. Reading and writing about education
are labours of love. I’m aiming to get my next book out in 2021. I’m keen that our school contributes to society at large. Our participation in global networks, such as MIT and the GAIL schools, allows us to bring the wider world inside Gordon’s. The emphasis we put on innovation, entrepreneurship and curiosity are essential if we are to find solutions to the problems of the 21st century. As an independent school, we have more freedom to design our own curriculum, providing a bespoke education. We have a diverse pupil population and are very different to the tired stereotypes that still exist. There are people from all walks of life at RGC. Our bursary programme supports 1 in every 8 pupils in the Senior School. We’re keen that pupils develop their own sense of identity. We always look to challenge them, and help them to be brave and adventurous, achieving things that they might not think possible. Being a Gordonian provides a lifelong network - professional not just social - connecting people across the world. Find out more about the school at rgc.aberdeen.sch.uk
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