Trend Nov / Dec 21 by Trend Productions Ltd.

6 | CONTENTS

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLBEING

FASHION

22 Fabulously festive fashion 28 All that glitters: the sparkliest accessories 30 Men: Secret agent style 34 Gifts for everyone from babies to great grannies

Hair & makeup tips for the party season 16

FOOD & DRINK

Local chefs rustle up something special 44 Ask the Chef: Craig Wilson offers festive shortcuts 50

TRAVEL & LEISURE

New Year celebrations round the globe 70 Win a stay at the fabulous Glenapp Castle 74

LIFESTYLE

08 What’s on? Our round up of the best festive events 72 Kids: make your own family festive traditions 78 Social Pages: all the faces, all the frocks 80 Meet Leah & Thanassi Athanassopoulos of Alpha Clinic

HOMES & GARDENS

54 Interiors: Christmas Decor 60 Gardens: Kirsty McLean on evergreens

ADVERTISEMENTS WELCOME | 7

ISSUE N0. 84 | NOV / DEC 21 PUBLISHED BY TREND PRODUCTIONS LTD PO Box 11858, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire AB39 9AN +44 (0)1224 596223 info@trendmagazine.co.uk trendmagazine.co.uk

FROM THE

EDITOR Hello again, We’ve gone slightly overboard in this full-on festive issue. There’s scarcely a page that’s not festooned with holly, snowflakes, Santa, baubles and Boxing Day feasts. It just feels like time to take a break from the daily media onslaught of misery and scare stories and focus on what’s good about the world and our little corner of it. We could all use a bit of glamour and goodwill right now. We’re just fed up feeling fed up. So let’s take a break and really enjoy this festive season. You’ll find everything you need to help you get in the festive spirit in this issue. We’ve rounded up the best festive events, some delicious recipes, glamorous accessories and gorgeous outfits, ideas for keeping the kids amused by creating your own family traditions, beauty and hair tips and a gift guide so you can tick off everyone on your list whether they’ve been naughty or nice! We know that come January, we’ll need to think about getting back in shape, swapping out the smoked salmon for salads and making resolutions about getting fit. But for now, just for a little while, let’s all put on our Christmas play lists and get our presents wrapped. Let’s all have another mince pie and buck’s fizz for breakfast. It’s time to let your hair down, put on your dancing shoes and celebrate. Have a fabulous festive season! 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.

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

On the Cover MODEL Hollie Cunningham of Premiere Productions PHOTOGRAPHER Donna Murray assisted by Anna Ross donnamurrayphotography.com THANKS We would like to thank Malmaison Aberdeen malmaison.com & Adesso Decor adessodecor.com

And the winner i s...

We had tw o hotel st ays up for in the last grab Catherine issue. The very luck s y Ferro won our dinne stay at Ed r and inburgh’s rather fab Tiger Lily. ulous Domin be off to In ique Johnson will verness fo ra at the Ma rriot Court stay yard.

8 | WHATS ON

1 december 26-28 november 7 november

The 12 Days of Christmas Sculpture Trail is open until Christmas Eve

2 december

Disney on Ice comes to P&J Live Madness at P&J Live

Pick up some treats at Affa Fine outdoor market at Milton of Crathes

27 november 18 november Pop down to the Castlegate for Aberdeen’s Christmas Tree Switch On and the opening of this year’s Winter Village on Broad Street and the crafts market in the Marischal College Quad aberdeeninspired.com/festival/ aberdeen-christmas-market

21 november There’s a Christmas Market at Pittodrie or the American Women of Aberdeen are holding a craft fair at the Aberdeen Altens Hotel AWAHolidayCraftFair

Banchory’s outdoor Crafts Market could be the perfect place to pick up some prezzies

28 november Sleeping Beauty’s on at the Aberdeen Arts Centre from now till Christmas Eve

29 november Take in the Nativity Scene in St. Nicolas’s Kirkyard from now till January 5th

3 december Jack and the Beanstalk’s on at the Tivoli Theatre Oh yes it is!

4 december Or book at HMT for Beauty and the Beast

WHATS ON | 9

T AT & GE H A T N A PICK OF YOUR S R T U U O O H K IT LOO E FIX W V I VEMBER T O S E N F S I R H U T YO EVENTS L A N O S SEA BER... M E C E D & 18 december 4 december Have breakfast with Santa every weekend till Christmas at Dobbies Garden Centre. They also have a quiet grotto for children with ASN on Dec 11th. Book at events.dobbies.com

10 December

Hark the Herald Angels… it’s the Carol Concert in the Winter Gardens at Duthie Park or you could catch the slightly less religious Bloody Marys at the Lemon Tree. aberdeenperformingarts.com

A candlelit version of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at Queen’s Cross Church Book via ticketsource.co.uk

11 December Book in for the Elf Academy at Brodie Castle near Forres and pick up festive goodies at Brodie Countryfayre next door

16 december An orchestral showing of The Snowman from Hugh Dennis and the RNSO at the Music Hall. aberdeenperformingarts.com

31 december Aberdeen’s Hogmanay celebrations are set to return, or check the Stonehaven Fireballs

17 december 9-24 december Christmas at the Castle. Head to Crathes Castle for the festive lighting trail around the grounds & garden plus Santa's Grotto, Street Food, Market Stalls. Book at christmasatthecastle.scot

An evening of Christmas Classics from the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra at the Music Hall, book at aberdeenperformingarts.com

All events are subject to change or cancellation, so check before heading out.

10 | ADVERTISEMENTS

Give a gift of gratitude this Christmas, let your friends, family and loved ones know how much you appreciate them and how grateful you are to have them in your life.

Shop online at bloomlifestyle.co.uk to see the 25% saving on gifts of gratitude and book your salon visit.

Visit the salon during November and December, quote TREND GRATITUDE GIFT and receive a complimentary travel product to take home

Anderson House, 24 Rose Street, AB10 1UA Tel: 01224 446750 bloom_aberdeen @bloomlifestyleaberdeen bloomlifestyle.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENTS | 11

Christmas shop open Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm Follow us on Facebook to keep up-to-date! Tel: 01224 646032 18 Chapel Street, Aberdeen AB10 1SP

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RUBISLAW PARK | 13

The care home you'd choose for yourself Most of us don’t start thinking about choosing the right care home for our parents or elderly relatives until it becomes clear that fully independent living is no longer an option for our loved ones.

little research can make the difference between enabling a full and interesting life in an excellent care setting, or a less fulfilling and stimulating environment. We all want the best for our loved ones. Manager Gayle Bain explained, ‘Obviously, the best way to assess whether a care home is right for your relative is to come and see for yourself, but if you’re not quite ready for that, checking the reviews on carehome.co.uk is a great start. Rubislaw Park has almost a hundred reviews from residents and their relatives. 93% of people said they’d be extremely likely to recommend us to others, and 98% rate us as excellent or good. ‘One of our most recent reviews sums it up very well. A resident’s daughter wrote, ‘Since my father

moved into Rubislaw Park, he has improved in every possible way. He is looking very healthy, enjoys the company, he cannot speak highly enough of the staff that they have made him feel very much at home.’ Gayle continues, ‘Some people see moving into a care home as the closing chapter of their life, but Rubislaw Park offers a whole new lease on life, new interests and new friends. Living alone can lead to loneliness and there are many research studies showing that social isolation is detrimental to health and wellbeing. Rubislaw Park offers the chance to be part of a welcoming community. We offer residential care, nursing care and a specialised dementia unit.’ Find out more about the facilities on offer at rubislawpark.com

14 | ADVERTISEMENTS

Presents for the whole family He’s making a list, he’s checking it twice, he’s heading to Platform, where everything’s nice!

Head to Platform in Macduff where you’ll find magical gifts for everyone on your Christmas list. Clothing for men, women and children from Gant, iBlues, Superdry, Emme, Blauer, Gym King and I’Cona and many more. Stylish home décor. Lighting, accessories and furniture from Eichholtz, Coach House, Libra, Culinary Concepts

ebbie and Melanie, the sisters behind Chapel Street’s multiaward winning Tiger Lily Boutique have just celebrated 10 years in business together. Tiger Lily, which is known for its ontrend styles and affordable prices, started with a boutique in Broughty Ferry before opening a second branch in Aberdeen’s West End. Co-owner Melissa McArthur, explained, ‘Top styles for this season include longer dress lengths and khaki is very popular just now.

We have new stock every week, so there’s always something exciting in store. Debbie Brash added, ‘We’re now bringing in some lovely party dresses and accessories in sizes 8-18. I think people just want to dress up and sparkle again. Our online boutique has really taken off too and we now ship all over the world. ‘We want to thank all our lovely customers for making Tiger Lily Boutique’s first decade so successful.’

8 Chapel Street, AB101SP Tel: 01224 626983 tigerlilyboutique.co.uk

Gifts, Jewellery, accessories, Donna May Makeup bags, cards and wrap. And once your shopping’s done, pop into Annie’s Cakery for a well-earned treat.

Station Brae, Macduff AB44 1UL theplatform-macduff.co.uk

ALPHA CLINIC | 15

THE EYES HAVE IT Our eyes are often the first thing people notice about us, conveying emotion and being the focus of our facial expressions. They can also make us look older and more tired than we feel.

At Alpha Clinic, Mr Athanassopoulos recognises that every client has different aspirations, so each operation is a bespoke procedure. The surgery may be performed using a local anaesthetic and the procedure takes around an hour, with the expectation of some swelling over the following week or two. Most patients

return to work after a week, looking naturally younger and refreshed. There are also surgical options for lower eyelid surgery, which can be used to treat dark circles resulting from shadowing due to bulging fat or bags. Both procedures, upper and lower can be combined for total eyelid rejuvenation. Alternatively, a brow lift can dramatically improve the appearance of the eyebrows, raising the eyebrows to their ideal natural position. Booking a consultation could restore that twinkle to your eyes. Alpha Clinic was founded by Mr Thanassi Athanassopoulos. He is one of the country’s most highly

qualified and skilled Plastic Surgeons, specialising in facial and breast surgery. He is an Honorary Senior Lecturer at Aberdeen University Medical School and an NHS Consultant. 10 Albyn Terrace, AB10 1YP Tel: 01224 232428 alphaclinic.co.uk © Shockerstu/L ADO

s we age, we develop an excess of skin on the upper eyelid that can make the eye feel heavy, sleepy or smaller. If the eyelids are droopy, fat can be displaced in the under eye area resulting in a puffy or swollen appearance. Fortunately, an eyelid lift is one of the fastest, least invasive surgical options to make us look younger.

16 | ADVERTISEMENTS

Party season is coming up, which means having to abandon the bare faces, pony tails and messy buns that have been our go to looks while working from home. We suspect our favourite lipsticks may have passed their expiration dates now that we’re perpetually masked up.

hat’s why we consulted some of our favourite hair and beauty salons to find out what the key trends are for the next few months… Elle Rintoul of Bloom, on the corner of Rose Street and Thistle Street, suggested, “Half up/half down curls are the prefect day-to-night look for office parties that start early and end late. This will mean you don’t look over or underdone at any point as this look could be made to look casual or glam, depending on what you pair it with. Go for a natural make up look with a nude lip to dress it down or a glam make up look with a red lip to dress it up. ‘Sleek but a little messy, with added volume also works for a ball or cocktail evening. It’s glamour without looking like you’ve tried too hard. Paired with a LBD and any make up look, you’ll be the belle of the ball! ‘Our favourite make up looks this year has to be a glowy complexion and matte eye and lip, however, we’re also partial to a glitter eye or glossy lip! When it comes to getting ready for a big night out, we have our new Bloom Style Bar, where you can have your hair and makeup done at the same time, so you’re ready to party.’ Make Up Artist Gosia Weiss is encouraging us to be more adventurous when it comes to our party make up this season. She said, ‘Even if you've never tried before, don't shy away from a red lipstick! There is a shade of red for everyone, from rich berry tones, deep burgundy, true reds or reds with orange undertones.

Credit: El le

Rintoul

of Bloom

And to make sure it will stay put all night, invest in a long lasting lipliner which would help to create a perfect shape, add some volume and protect lipstick from bleeding. My favourites are Lisa Eldridge Velvet Ribbon, MAC Ruby Woo and Charlotte Tilbury’s So Red.’ In terms of hair colour, Sarah Jane Ironside of Salon 70 on Great Western Road, says that rich colours are key this season. She explained, ‘Autumnal colours like warm browns, copper shades and chocolate browns bring a warmth and depth to hair. We’re using methods like balayage and baby lights for face framing. This is a great way to add colour with low maintenance and avoiding over processing the hair, which can cause damage. The fashion at the moment is for healthy, vibrant, shiny hair and to achieve this we advise the use of a shampoo for coloured hair and always using heat protection when styling hair.’ If your skin could use a boost, NY Skin on Fonthill Road have a new treatment that could restore your pep before the party season, or help you recover after a few heavy nights out. I.V Nutritional Therapy (IV) is a drip made up of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that delivers fluids directly into the bloodstream. This allows your body to absorb the vitamins and minerals faster and more effectively. Great for the day after Christmas parties, to boost your immune system and energy levels. You’ll need to book NY Skin’s free consultation before your appointment.

18 | COPPER & GREY

The joy of gifting Copper & Grey are bringing their special magic to the Christmas season. You’ll find thoughtful, good quality gifts for everyone on your list. Whether you’re looking for homewares for Harry, accessories for Auntie Angela, board games for bored teenagers or gifts for a gorgeous new baby, Copper & Grey ticks all the boxes. There’s a great selection of cards and Christmas decorations - everything from Nordic gnomes to a beautiful

selection of tea-light holders and little LED ceramic trees that you’ll treasure for years to come. They’ll even provide complimentary gift wrapping for your purchases for you, creating the perfect finish. With gift shops in Banchory and in Aberdeen’s West End, Copper & Grey should be on everyone’s Christmas list!

20 Chapel Street 16 High Street, Banchory Aberdeen AB10 1SP Aberdeenshire AB31 5SR Tel: 01224 644753 Tel: 01330 538936 coppergreygifts.com

LOOK YOUR BEST Since opening in 2012, Brenda Cardno and her talented team of beauty therapists have been dedicated to making the people of North-east look and feel great. They’ll help you look your best this festive season, whether it’s special occasion make up, a facial, manicure, waxing or body treatments. Our full beauty treatment menu is available online. 7 Cairndenity Place, Inverallochy nr. Fraserburgh AB43 8TD Tel: 01346 583365 TreatCompanyFamily treatcompany.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENTS | 19

SAY YES TO THE PERFECT DRESS

agnolia Lane Bridal in Peterculter should be every bride’s first choice when it comes to finding the perfect dress for her big day. Owner Georgia Dale explained, ‘Each bride and her party has exclusive use of our boutique. It’s a relaxed atmosphere and we’re happy for guests to browse the dresses and suggest styles. We have a little chat to see what the bride has in mind, then try on different styles and silhouettes to find out what the bride feels most comfortable and beautiful in. ‘For 2022, we’re seeing a lot of minimalist luxury. Clean cut and simple dresses created from luxurious fabrics like Mikado and crepe. Statement sleeves are popular, often with volume. Some styles come with separate little puff sleeves which change the look of a strapless dress. Square and round necklines are making a major comeback.

These really flatter collarbones and shoulders and suits many different dress silhouettes. ‘At Magnolia Lane, we stock dresses from Randy Fenoli, Herve Paris, House of St. Patrick Studio, Nicole Jolies, Ladybird and Freda Bennet with Modeca are joining us soon. Our prices range from £900 to £2500 and we stock sample dresses from a UK12 – UK28, with the majority being UK12-UK16. Lead times are 5-6 months, but some are as quick as 8-10 weeks. ‘We now offer bridesmaids dresses from Onlyway. The same dress can be worn in 15 different ways and they offer 46 colours. We will also be stocking some of their new wrap collection dresses. These feature a choice of sleeves and necklines and come in a wide selection of colours in jersey, velvet or London Luxe, so every bridesmaid will look and feel great.’

267 North Deeside Road, Peterculter, Aberdeen, AB14 0UL Tel: 01224 733344 Email: info@magnolialanebridal.co.uk @magnolialanebridal

20 | ADVERTISEMENTS

RESTAURANT WEEK | 20

Beauty’s best kept secret

hether you need a bit of pre-party pampering or you’re already working on your New Year beauty resolutions, Kippie Lodge is the place to go. The Milltimber-based venue has one of the city’s best hair and beauty salons and you don’t need to be a Kippie member to book. When it comes to advanced skin care, the team at Kippie Lodge have some of the most effective treatments available. Cryo Oxygen Microchannelling Collagen Induction Therapy, or COMCIT, delivers chilled oxygen throughout the epidermis to invigorate the skin, while the micro channelling action allows higher potency hyaluronic acid to reach deeper dermal layers, essentially transforming ageing, dehydrated skin. There are also specialist COMCIT facials for those with acne or who want to reduce areas of hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.

The beauty team also offer a menu of eight bespoke Decleor facials that match the needs of your skin. With facials starting at £35, it’s five star service at out of town prices. You can even add a 15 minute Decleor neck, shoulder and back massage for an additional £10. Kippie’s talented team of beauty therapists have some amazing body treatments too, whether you fancy a hot stone massage, a back exfoliation treatment or some intensive care for your eye area, they’re dedicated to helping you look your best from head to toe. The treatment menu includes gel manicures and pedicures, waxing, alternative therapies, Mii make up for special occasions and a range of pampering days. There’s a special men’s menu too and gift vouchers are available.

dedicated to helping you look your best from head to toe

So whether it's a new look, a bit of pampering or a little rejuvenation, Kippie will keep you looking great. The salon is open from Monday to Friday 9am -5pm.

Tel: 01224 739905 North Deeside Road, Milltimber, AB13 0AB

There is something stylish & sophisticated for anyone of any age

Christmas at

NY SKIN CLINIC T

he pandemic has taken its toll on everyone’s skin and it’s time to illuminate and rejuvenate at NY Skin Clinic. We’re here to help you get ready for your first Christmas party in two years. It’s all about feeling confident and ready to have a great time.

Try our Christmas glow package with Sunekos or Profhilo, Lip or Cheek Filler and Zo Red carpet Peel plus a take home Zo product for £499.

Get your body Christmas ready with BodyFx. Save £265 on a course of six treatments incorporating Zo Skin Health Body Emulsion to tighten and smooth your skin and say goodbye to cellulite. Now £550.

Keep an eye on our Instagram @nyskinclinic throughout December for our 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway.

Go for gift vouchers. Buy £300 or more and receive a surprise gift.

92 FONTHILL ROAD, AB11 6UL TEL: 01224 593777 EMAIL: info@nyskinclinic.co.uk nyskinclinic.co.uk

Stocking items from:

GANT, 7 For All Mankind, Tommy Hilfiger, Ted Baker, Purotatto, French Connection, Great Plains & fabulous Ellie Beaumont bags 14 Netherkirkgate, Aberdeen AB10 1AU Tel: 01224 640793 loloandco.co.uk Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

If ever there was a time to don your best party dress and let your hair down, it’s this year. Go for glamour, pile on the pizzazz. In the immortal words of Kool and the Gang, ‘We're gonna have a good time tonight (Ce-le-bra-tion) Let's celebrate, it's all right…’

Dress Tinta £120 Wrap Joseph Ribkoff £266 Both Bellino

24 | FASHION

Ted Baker AIMMY Knitted Bodycon Dress £165 Lolo + Co Beth Bag £30 Tiger Lily Boutique Boots Model’s own

Hot off the Dress, Green £38 Spike up Your Life Bag £29 Both Tiger Lily Boutique

Tinta Dress £120 Shoes Model’s own

26 | FASHION

Silk top £55 & matching bottoms £70 Both Great Plains at Lolo + Co Sandals & bag Model’s own

Top £110 Vilagallo Vilagallo Black Trousers with beaded detail £125 Both @hamishmunro Shoes Model’s own

Oui Leather Look Trousers £119 Sweater Pom £129 Both @hamishmunro Spike up Your Life Bag £29 Tiger Lily Boutique Shoes Model’s own

M&Co

FASHION EDIT | 29

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30 | MENS EDIT

Need a style role model? You could do a lot worse than James Bond. Here’s our pick of the best in secret agent style and activities…

hether you call it a tux or a dinner suit, there’s no doubt that a well cut ensemble adds a sophisticated edge. Bond goes bespoke on Saville Row. Try this stylish option from TM Lewin (TMLewin.co.uk) for secret agent style on a budget. They started on Jermyn Street in 1898. Cufflinks are another Bond essential. Go bespoke at Lava in Peterculter. They can probably design something with a secret compartment for spy stuff, though incorporating a miniature rocket launcher may be too much to ask. You’ll also need a seriously upmarket watch. The classic Bond choice is an Omega Seamaster from Finnie’s on George Street. They have the best selection of brands in town, whether it’s a timeless classic or

something rugged and sporty, including pre-owned models and prices from £140 to just under £25,000. In the books, Bond lives on steak, eggs, whisky and about 80 cigarettes a day. These days, secret agents smell rather better than they’d have done in the sixties. We feel Bond would sniff out a niche British perfumer. Ormonde Jayne’s flagship store is even located on Old Bond Street in London! Their Isfarkand Elixir is Bond in liquid form, it’s suave, charming but tenacious and masculine. Lime, Mandarin and Bergamot yield to base notes of Cedar, Vetiver and Moss. £195 for 50ml from Harrods, Selfridges or ormondejayne.com

MENS EDIT | 31

And the car? You can’t go far wrong with the classic Aston Martin DB5. One sold in 2019 for over $6.5 million. How about Knockhill, where you can buy an Aston Martin Experience starting at £229? It’s less likely to give your bank manager apoplexy. (knockhill. com/experiences/aston-martin-supercarexperience) Alternatively, have a go at doing your own stunts. How about driving a 20 tonne tank and crushing a car? It costs £400 from tankdrivechallenge.net who are based near Doune. If you’d rather stay nearer to home, explore the options at Lochter Activity Centre (lochter.co.uk) near Oldmeldrum. There’s plenty of choice to help develop your secret agent skills, from the 120 metre long Devil Dare Zip

Slide to target shooting, blindfold off-road driving and even sumo wrestling. No secret agent is without a neat gadget or two. In Never Say Never Again, Connery’s Bond uses a Montblanc149 Fountain Pen that doubles as a gun. Finnies stock pens from Cross and Chopard or Pen Heaven (penheaven.co.uk) has a wide selection at all price points. Any secret agent worth his salt needs a notebook or two to jot down coded messages. The classic Moleskine combines practicality and good looks. Waterstones have the best selection in town. Moleskine also do diaries, ideal for keeping all those assignations with informants and alluring enemy agents in order.

JBuds Frames complete the secret agent look. These high quality audio buds simply slip onto the legs of glasses or sunglasses to provide up to eight hours of your own soundtrack in stereo. JLab Audio's JBuds Frames consist of two independently operating Bluetooth true wireless audio devices, which can be affixed to the temples of your eyewear. They offer perfect sound quality for personal use, without being heard by those close by - great if you’re receiving secret messages from HQ. You can find them for £49.99 at Argos. Right, all you need now is a Vodka Martini, shaken, not stirred. Maybe a cocktail masterclass at Orchid is the way to go?

133 Broomhill Road Aberdeen AB10 6JQ Tel. 01224 200123 Opening Hours: Tue - Thur, 10am - 7pm Fri 10am - 6pm

A fresh approach to city centre hair & beauty

E GIFTS, FURNITURE, HOMEWARE & PRET-A-PORTER FASHION

Open: Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm | The Courtyard, Cults, Aberdeen T. 01224 862690 sonyaangusshop sonyaangus.com

mma Fraser and her team of freelance stylists and beauty therapists have just celebrated a successful first year in her new, vibrant and modern salon on Spa Street. Emma explained, ‘I love having a spacious welcoming salon for clients to come into. We offer a wide range of services in one place. As well as myself offering creative colours and cuts we also have, Gemma Taylor bridal specialist and educator and Eva Jack - Luxe Lane who offers a full menu of

beauty services. ‘It’s been a great first year for us and we’re already looking to expand, so I’m keen to hear from incredible stylists who want to work for themselves but still feel part of a great team in a supportive salon.’ Quote ‘TrendTreat’ for 15% off pre-booked beauty treatments in January and February.

21 Spa Street, AB251PU Tel: 07713499901 frasersofspastreet

He’s making his list, he’s checking it twice, he’s gonna find out whose naughty or nice. Santa Claus is coming to town. This year, we reckon that almost everyone will be on the nice list, mainly because the opportunities for being naughty have been somewhat curtailed of late. So, here’s our pick of the best gifts to suit everyone from stuffy Great Aunt Gertrude to permanently sticky toddlers. Many of them are available from local businesses or specialists across the UK…

Sometimes being a grown up means that gifts become more about what you need, rather than what you want. Very few people actually want to receive a new iron or a vacuum cleaner for Christmas and some may explain this in no uncertain terms. Cash or vouchers may mean you can score someone’s name off your list, but a little more thought can result in a more meaningful gift… If you have gold or gemstone jewellery that you’ve inherited or no longer wear, then Peterculter’s Lava Jewellery can use the materials and create a new piece that you, or a loved one will treasure. Eternity rings can be given a new life as several pairs of ear studs or something old-fashioned can be transformed into something to suit the recipient’s own taste. Jeweller Sandy Menzies also works to commission, using the latest CAD technology to create stunning pieces. If you’ve left it too late to create something bespoke, then Finnies on George Street has the best selection of fine jewellery and watches in the North-east, as well as gifts such as silver photo frames, pens and glassware. When it comes to significant others and close relatives, spending time together is always a winner. How about a block booking at Aberdeen’s Original Hot Yoga studio in Berryden? It’s hot, sweaty, good for your

health and fun to do together. If getting hot and sweaty’s not your thing, you could book a creative workshop for two, try a cookery class, or treat your friend or loved one to a short break, a night out at a local restaurant, a trip to the theatre or even a flying visit to somewhere with better weather. If you’re planning a special night out or have a wedding to attend, then gift a session with make-up artist Gosia Weiss. She has an almost magical ability to bestow a glow and take years off you, while still making you feel like yourself. Actually, a bit of pampering is always a welcome gift. Who doesn’t appreciate being a tiny bit spoiled? A new hair style or a trip to the beauty salon can help us get our mojo back. Look for half-day or day spa packages or create your own at a local salon. Depending on your location, Frasers of Spa Street and Bloom are both central and have a great range of treatments. In the west of the city, The Doll’s House over in Cults, or Kippie Lodge are the go-to spots while Cali Beauty in Westhill offers the best Guinot facials around, as well as special mini-manicures and pedicures for under twelves which are ideal for mother-daughter bonding. If you’re after a more permanent beauty boost, consider vouchers from NY Skin, Andrew Scott Dental or Alpha Clinic.

A superb selection of wines to celebrate the holidays in style - Festive fizz, big reds and fruity whites. Let us help you find the perfect wine gift for friends, family & clients 245 Union Grove T. 01224 322 602 sugarbirdwines

Including Guinot facials, Gelish nails, LVL Lash Lift, Cali Brows, Indian Head massage & Harley waxing. Quote ‘Trend21’ when booking for 10% off any treatment. Christmas gift sets available now. • Elevator Business Centre 9A Endeavour Drive, Westhill Tel: 01224 330566 Email: cali.beauty.abz@gmail.com

calibeauty.co.uk

Accessories also make for thoughtful gifts. A pair of gloves, a gorgeous scarf, a woolly bobble hat, shoes or a new handbag can all be pleasing. Our picks of where to go include The Platform in Macduff which is one of our favourite shopping road trips because they always have something great in store, whether it’s a new outfit or a piece by a local artist or maker. Plus they have great cake. In Cults, Sonya Angus’s boutique stocks a unique range of accessories, fashion, homeware and gifts. The difficulty will be handing over whatever you’ve bought to someone else. Now we think of it, that’s probably why they offer complimentary gift wrapping all year round. Number 18 on Chapel Street is always likely to have something special that you won’t

find elsewhere. We love their humorous prints and knitted accessories. Its location is ideal - you can pop into Tiger Lily for a new outfit, Copper & Grey to pick up some more gifts, then nip across to Almondine for a treat or two. Get a gazillion brownie points with a personalised star map of where you met, or another significant date from posterhaste. com They do a fabulous selection of personalised prints including illustrations, travel, family cartoon portraits and quotes and deliver quickly. Buying lingerie for Christmas can be fraught with danger. It’s best to leave anything in bright red polyester with scratchy lace well alone. Make an appointment at Bellewren Lingerie in Oldmeldrum instead and treat

• Dollsdeluxe/Dollface Facials • Spray Tanning • TGB Gel nails • Brow lamination • Beautyworks hair extensions • MAC Make-up Artist • Aesthetic Clinics

gifts from our + Christmas favourite hair & beauty brands 322A North Deeside Road, AB15 9SE Tel: 01224 467767 dollshousebeauty.com

your loved one to an expert fitting and their choice of everyday or special occasion underwear. If the budget won’t stretch to a weekend in New York or sunning yourself in the Seychelles, then look for simple luxuries that make life more pleasurable without requiring a bank loan. Sooki Coo has a delightful range of luxury hand poured candles with beguiling scents. Pryde on Great Western Road also have some superb candles, as well as a great range of homewares, original art and prints that make memorable and truly special gifts. Alcohol is always an option and there are lots of local spirits to choose from. With Speyside on the doorstep, malt is an obvious choice, but we also have well over 20 gin brands in Aberdeenshire. One of the newest is Foghouse Gin which has been created by Mike Stuart of

the Inverurie Whisky Shop. The small batch gin, which has notes of rosemary and olive, coriander and spice, is made in association with Aboyne’s Lost Loch Spirits Company in micro copper stills. It’s available from the shop and online. Finally, if you must give your nearest and dearest some socks, then try jimmylion.com They have an immense selection for all ages and some really funky designs - from cute animals and Jurassic Park to Marvel’s Avengers and Back to the Future. You can even create your own custom packs of four, six or ten pairs.

The Sweetest Gifts Yummy artisanal fudges, Belgian Chocolate fudges, gourmet marshmallows, traditional tablet, gift hampers & marshmallow toasting or dipping kits make the most delicious gifts. We have vegan & allergy-friendly options & eco-friendly packaging. T. 07779791075 E. puredecadence@lochaurora.co.uk Pure Decadence by Loch Aurora

The independent, design-led store for the whole family º Clothing for kids & adults º Great toys & books º Gorgeous gifts,decor & homewares º Christmas stock now in

Beautiful.Sustainable.Fun.

1 Mitchell Brae,Balmedie, Aberdeen,AB23 8PW Tel:01358 268169

indiandwill.com

the perfect fit for Christmas

Lingerie is often gifted at Christmas. Make the right choice with an appointment at Bellewren. Expert fitting and a great selection of occasion, maternity, sports, teen and everyday lingerie. Sizes range from 26-46 band and AA to KK Cups. 52 Coutens Park, Oldmeldrum, AB51 0PG bellewrenlingerie.com bellewren Tel: 07717004755

good boys & girls In parts of Germany and Austria, a mythical figure called Krampus arrives on the night of December 5th. Krampus swats bad children with a switch, shoves them in a large sack and takes them to his lair. Here, naughty children have nothing more to fear than the threat of finding the stockings at the end of their bed empty except for a lump of coal. Let’s assume that all the children you know are little angels, shall we? In that case, here’s our selection of gifts for good boys and girls… The main options for toy shops are Smyth’s down at the Beach Retail Park, Hamley’s in Union Square and Toytown in the Trinity Centre. Toytown are particularly good for Lego sets. Will’s Toy Shop on North Deeside Road in Cults specialises in tabletop and card trading games, collectable bears and family games. Out in Inverurie, Strachan’s have a good selection of toys and games too and there are plenty of options like Alpine Bikes or Stonehaven’s Bike Remedy if you’re searching for a two-wheeled present. Gift shops like Copper and Grey also have good selections of more unusual toys,

especially if you’re looking for stocking fillers or smaller gifts for friends’ children. They have some great construction kits in tins, a good selection of board games and lots of crafts kits. Indi + Will in Balmedie is a joy if you’re looking for great quality wooden toys, imaginative play or cute soft toys. There are some wonderful wooden kitchen playsets, delightful mice from Maileg, squishy Miffy rabbits and lots of different animals from Jellycat. You’ll also find games like Poo Bingo, which are guaranteed to amuse pre-schoolers as well as being highly educational. We had no idea that wombats poo in cubes. It’s also great for kids’ books, with the Little People, Big Dreams series profiling inspirational characters from all walks of life. Construction toys are always popular and we like Geomag’s versatile Magicube Shapes. This comes as a 13-piece set made from recycled plastic that can be used to create an infinite section of vehicles and creatures using the differently shaped blocks and wheels. £29.99 from thetoyshop.com Staying with ecologically friendly gifts, Britains Farm in a Box includes a John Deere tractor,

Light up your festive season Sooki Coo’s hand-made luxury candles, wax melts, diffuser, hand & body washes & lotions are lovingly created in Aberdeen. Choose from our fabulous festive fragrances including: Cranberry, Orange & Cinnamon, Mistletoe Kisses, Gingerbread, Frankincense & Myrrh & Christmas Spice.

animals including horses and cattle, fences and hay bales and the box converts into farm buildings that can be coloured in and reused multiple times. It even turns back into a storage box for when play time ends. Great for those aged 3-7, you’ll find it at toyshops for around £25. Coding is set to be the essential work skill in the decades to come, so this Artie Max coding robot could be a good investment! The drawing robot is fun to use and helps kids learn five coding languages through fun, creative activities. Kids can get coding within minutes by connecting their WI-FI-enabled device securely and directly to Artie Max there’s no internet needed. Suitable for ages 8+, you’ll find it on Amazon for around £110. Kids seem to have a desire for their own tech from an early age. Get your toddler on track to be the next David Bailey with My First Tech’s Insta 2 camera. Pictures are printed on thermal paper and emerge in 10 seconds flat. It supports microSD cards and even has an extra selfie lens. Find it at myfirst.tech for £95. My Fairy Garden has a great range of playsets including a village playset at £37.99 and a

garden at £14.99. Kids over four will enjoy planting their gardens with soil and planting their seeds so their fairies have somewhere suitably enchanting to stay. You can find the range at Argos, Smyths and Hobbycraft. Teenagers can be rather difficult to buy for, particularly the ones where their expectations far exceed the budget available. Gift vouchers are often the default option, but they’re not much fun to unwrap. If you opt for video games, consoles, sports kit, hobby materials or clothing, then save yourself a trip to the returns desk by finding out precisely what they want. If your teen is a budding influencer or content producer, then JOBY’s GorillaPod Mobile Vlogging Kit may actually be appreciated! The kit includes everything they need to create the content they want using their mobile. There’s a mobile tripod, mini LED to create flawless lighting, and the Wavo Mobile microphone for crisp, clear audio. They can choose what elements they want to use, and it is compatible with mobile phones or a mirrorless camera. RRP £179.95 from joby.com

E. sookicoocandles@hotmail.com sookicoocandles.com

Bringing out your true beauty

Gosia has more than eight years’ experience in creating gorgeous bridal and special occasion make up looks. Based in Aberdeenshire, but happy to travel to venues throughout Scotland, or for destination weddings and elopements. T. 07922 433 753 E. info@gosiaweissmakeupartist.co.uk gosiaweissmakeupartist.co.uk

for fanatical foodies

You can’t go far wrong with food as a gift. Broadly speaking, gifts for foodies fall into three categories - cooking equipment and gourmet ingredients, little goodies and treats and foodie experiences outside the home. Keen cooks often love new kit, whether it’s some super sharp Japanese knives, a smoker or their own sushi making kit. Locally, Lakeland on Union Street is often your best bet for this type of gift. Soup makers are often appreciated by elderly parents and there’s a great selection of bean to cup coffee machines too.

Fans of the Great British Bake Off might appreciate a monthly baking subscription, where the recipient gets a new recipe kit each month, or some baking tins and gadgets from the show’s official site bakeoffbox.co.uk we liked their duck egg blue baking sets. Keen cooks might also like Zwilling’s amazing Fresh & Save Vacuum Starter Set. This comes in at just under £90 but will save money in the long run. Once you’ve applied the vacuum pump to the special glass jars or reusable bags, food stays fresh for up to five times longer. It’s great for leftovers or meal prep, marinating or even cooking sous vide.

Gourmet Cheese Co. Aberdeen’s finest selection of Artisan Cheeses & Deli Products

Moving on to gourmet gifts, themed hampers can work well. Fill a basket with a bottle or two from SugarBird Wines excellent selection and pair with three or four generous wedges of artisan cheese from Rosemount’s Gourmet Cheese Co. and a selection of their sourdough bread or crackers and you have a perfect gift. Other options include taking a trip to the Oriental Supermarket on Causewayend, the Asian Supermarket on John Street, one of the local farm shops, a food hall like Mains of Drum or Kellockbank or a delicatessen or two and putting together a collection. Maybe a robust South African red from SugarBird Wines with some fresh pasta and Italian delicacies from Pasta Plus? Sticking with the Italian theme, how about an Italian truffle, truffle oil or give a taste of sunshine with a bottle of Limoncetta Liqueur from the zest of Sorrento lemons? It’s a natural product, made in a traditional way and with a bit of a kick. It can be purchased from Amazon for around £16. Add in an Italian cookery book and you’ve gifted someone a very pleasurable evening or two. Everyone enjoys a little bit of naughty deliciousness, though it’s safest not to look at the calorie count. Pure Decadence by Loch Aurora offer an outstanding selection of hand-made fudge. Their Belgian Chocolate Fudge is rather moreish. A large bag of assorted tablet and fudge is good choice if you have to post a present. You’ll get at least 42 pieces for £25 and the packaging is biodegradable. Vegans often feel a little left out, but if you head for Rosemary Planet on Holburn Street, you’ll find a great selection of vegan sweets. Buy a decorative glass jar, add a tag and some pretty ribbon and you’ve got a gift that will make them happy for weeks to come. This idea also works well for elderly relatives using old

fashioned boiled sweets or you can fill a jar with mini chocolate bars or fizzy sweets for kids. You’ll find the best selections at some of the city and shire’s confectionary specialists like Stonehaven’s Gulianotti’s, Ellon’s Hey Sweetie or Humbug in Rosemount.

Perfect for festive feasts & gifts. Hampers available to order. Extended hours during the festive period. 201 Rosemount Place, AB25 2XP T: 01224 566530 E: orders@gourmetcheeseco.com

gourmetcheeseco.com

Moving on to the carnivores, Ingrams of Aberdeenshire do Christmas hampers that include treats like smoked salmon, smoked venison and their own sausages, bacon, gammon and gammon glaze, as well as bacon, wine, locally made tablet, chocs and Christmas cake. It’s like a taste of Aberdeenshire. They come in attractive gift boxes and you can adapt the contents to suit the recipient. Chattan Quality Meats not only supply some fabulously succulent turkey, game and locally sourced quality beef, poultry and pork, but they offer butcher packs that could help stock a freezer over the winter months. They even deliver within the city. Prices start at £25 and go up to £100, but if you want a more gourmet approach, pop into the shop and see the full range, then make a custom hamper. The last type of gift for foodies is a food experience. This might be a special lunch or dinner at your favourite restaurant, a cookery class or a private dining experience. Belmont Street’s The Tippling House, for example, offers a five course tasting menu for under £30 a person, which is a bit of a bargain. They also have an extensive collection of whiskies and a not inconsiderable cocktail menu. Their gift vouchers mean the recipient can choose what suits themselves. Whatever you choose, it’s bound to go down well!

Christmas at CHATTAN QUALITY MEATS

Treat yourself to our succulent turkey, boneless turkey breast or our wonderful beef wellington this Christmas. Locally sourced high quality Scottish produce, outstanding traditional cuts, pies, delicious ready to cook dishes and family favourites delivered to your door. 35-37 Chattan Place, AB10 6RB Tel. 01224 581843 chattanqualitymeats chattanqualitymeats.co.uk

Customised hampers bursting with local artisan products from £30. • Hampers & brunch boxes • Superb sausages, home-cured bacon & mouth-watering pork • Now taking Christmas orders Visit our farm shop near Newburgh or online ingrams-aberdeenshire.com Find us at Farmers Markets in Ellon, Stonehaven, Inverurie & Banchory.

E: info@ingrams-aberdeenshire.com

for a greener Christmas Sustainable gifting, plastic -free Natural cosmetics Vegan sweets and treats Artisan chocolate Loose teas, organic veg Make your own 100% natural additive-free nut butters • Reusable household products • Refillable cleaning products • Bring your own packaging • • • • • •

281 Holburn Street, Aberdeen AB10 7FN rosemaryplanet

pampered pets

According to one survey, pet lovers in the UK spent over £260 million on Christmas gifts for their pets last year. This leads us to believe that there must have been a lot of gerbils wearing tiny diamond tiaras and cats feasting on their personal cans of caviar. When it comes to buying gifts for your furry family members, it’s best to think of dogs as being similar to four year olds who will be ecstatic with just about anything they can eat or play with. A new ball, chew toy or Frisbee will mean a waggy tail.

Cats are more like moody teenagers. You can spend a fortune on toys that will be ignored and luxury cat beds that they will haughtily stroll past before snuggling down in the box it came in. Cute festive collars and little outfits are a possibility if you don’t mind an arm full of scratches and a tetanus booster jab. Buy them some canned tuna and sneak them some bits of turkey during Christmas dinner instead. Here’s a few ideas we liked…

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Traditionally, the end of one year & the start of a new one is marked with feasting. We asked some of our favourite chefs for their ideas…

FESTIVE FOOD | 45

Chicken Liver & Brandy Parfait with Mulled Cranberry compote & Brioche toasts from No.10 Ingredients For the Parfait • 4 shallots thinly sliced • 1 garlic clove minced • 25g picked chopped fresh thyme • 80g unsalted butter • 75ml brandy • 1 kg fresh chicken livers • 3 eggs (at room temperature) • 200g unsalted butter (at room temperature) • Brioche (The Bread Guy does a great one)

For the Mulled Cranberry compote • 340g cranberries • 75g Demerara sugar • Zest and juice of a large orange • 200ml orange juice (ideally fresh) • 1 cinnamon stick • 6 cloves • 2 star anise • 2 thumbs of fresh ginger (peeled and minced)

Method For the Parfait Use a heavy based pan on a medium heat. Sweat the shallots, garlic and thyme in 80g of butter until soft and translucent. Add brandy, increase the heat and cook until the brandy is absorbed. Remove from the heat, decant into a container, cool and refrigerate. Preheat the oven to 185oC. Put the raw chicken livers, cooled shallot mixture, eggs, 200g butter and seasoning on a blender or food processor and blitz until smooth. Pass through a fine sieve into an oven proof dish and cover with foil. Half fill a deep oven tray with boiling water to make a Bain Marie. Place the parfait dish into the Bain Marie and bake in the oven for 30/35 minutes or until the parfait looks set. Remove the cooked parfait from the oven and leave to cool. Refrigerate until ready to serve. For the Mulled Cranberry compote Place all ingredients in a heavy based pan on a medium/high heat and bring to the boil, then reduce to a medium heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until cranberries all pop. Pick out all the clove, star anise and cinnamon and discard, pour compote mixture into a container and leave to cool. Serve the parfait in slices or scoops with the compote and toasted brioche.

46 | FESTIVE FOOD

Pan roast hake, gnocchi, cauliflower, caper from The Tippling House

Ingredients • • • • • • •

4 x 6oz Hake fillets 75g butter 1x cauliflower 100ml milk 50ml double cream 2 tbsp. capers 300g of Maris Piper potatoes

• • • • • •

50g of pasta flour 5g of flaky sea salt 10g egg yolk 25g fine semolina, for dusting Dulse Powder Pea Shoots

Method For the Gnocchi Steam the whole potatoes for 45-75 minutes until tender. Peel the warm potatoes using a small sharp knife, then mash using a potato ricer or mouli. Tip 200g of the potato on to a clean work surface. Sift the flour and salt together. Sprinkle half of this over the potato, drizzle the egg yolk and sprinkle the remaining flour. Use a metal scraper to repeatedly cut and mix the ingredients together, but avoid overmixing in case the gnocchi become rubbery. Knead the dough briefly then divide into four. Wrap each portion in cling film to prevent drying out. Roll each dough portion in turn, making a sausage shape, 1.5cm thick. Cut into 1cm portions, then roll each of these into a ball. Press grooves into each gnocchi with the back of a fork. Place the gnocchi on a tray dusted with semolina to prevent sticking. To cook the gnocchi, boil a large pan of salted water, reduce to a simmer and add the gnocchi, stirring the water as you go. When the gnocchi floats to the surface, cook for 1 more

minute before removing with a slotted spoon. Transfer the gnocchi into a hot pan with a good dash of olive oil and cook to achieve an evenly golden-brown finish Cut the cauliflower into florets, place in a pan with the butter and sauté until golden brown. Reserve half for plating. Add the milk and cream and cook the rest until soft. Liquidise until smooth, seasoning to taste. Add a little vegetable oil and 50g of butter to a large non-stick pan. Once hot, roast the hake until golden brown on both sides and finish in the oven if necessary. Deep fry the capers so that they open up and crisp slightly. Dot some of the puree on the plate and scatter on some of the florets, gnocchi and capers. Finish with the hake and a drizzle of the roasting juices. Garnish with the shoots and dulse powder

FESTIVE FOOD | 47

Ingredients For the potato cakes • 500g potatoes • 1 white onion, diced • 200g rough oatmeal • 150ml rapeseed oil • ½ tsp salt & cracked black pepper • 50g black kale, shredded • 25g flaked almonds • 100g tenderstem broccoli For the salsa verde: • ½ small pack tarragon • 1 small pack flat-leaf parsley • 1 garlic clove • ½ tsp sea salt • 1.5 tsp Dijon mustard • 20g small capers, drained, rinsed • 100ml extra virgin olive oil • 1 tbsp. sherry vinegar

Skirlie & kale potato cakes with charred broccoli, toasted almonds & salsa verde from Eat on the Green Method Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft, drain and mash. Sauté the onion in rapeseed oil until very soft then stir in the oatmeal, salt and pepper and leave to one side. Add the kale to the potato, combine with the oatmeal mixture and stir though. In a hot griddle pan, add a splash of rapeseed oil and chargrill the broccoli for a few minutes, add the flaked almonds, toasting until golden brown. Make the salsa verde in a food processor. Blitz the herbs, garlic, sea salt and mustard.

Add the olive oil and blitz again. Add the sherry vinegar a little at a time, checking for taste and texture. Blitz again to give a rich, green mixture. To serve, take a small round cutter and fill with the skirlie, potato cake mixture - make three small cakes on the plate. Top with a piece of tenderstem broccoli and scatter with the flaked almonds. Finally add the rich, green salsa verde on top and a drizzle of rapeseed oil.

Lemon meringue roulade from The Royal Northern & University Club Ingredients For the meringue • 4 Egg Whites • 250 g Sugar • 1 tsp of White Wine Vinegar • Cream • 500 ml double cream • 1 tsp of sugar • 1 vanilla pod • Good quality Lemon Curd

Method Preheat your oven to 1400C/275 F/Gas Mark Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Tip the whites into a large, very clean mixing bowl. Whisk until frothy and slightly stiff. Add a tablespoon of the sugar, whisk. Repeat this a spoonful at a time until all the sugar is gone. Whisk until the meringue is glossy and super stiff. This will take 5-8 minutes. Line a 33 cm x 23 cm baking tin with baking paper. Tip the meringue onto the tray, spread evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes until slightly golden brown and crusty. Whip the double cream, sugar and vanilla seeds until it is fluffy. If it splits or becomes grainy, add a little more liquid cream and mix gently with a spoon.

We make our own lemon curd, but you can use a good quality jar. Add the lemon curd to the cream and mix it through. Taste for tartness and add more if needed. Allow the roulade to cool partially before carefully flipping onto a piece of baking paper that is larger than the tin. The meringue should now be top down. Dollop the lemon cream across the roulade in little piles then spread. Don’t go too near the edges. Make a cut about ¾ of the depth of the meringue bout 3cm in from the short side. Take the baking paper and use it to roll the lip of the short side up and fold it along that cut so that this will form the centre of the roulade. Be brave, pull the paper tight and make a tight roll. It may crack. Roll it right onto your serving dish. Decorate to finish.

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ADVERTISEMENTS | 49

50 | ASK CHEF

e Green’s Eat on th some son offers u're Craig Wil o cuts so y rt o h s e v ti hen fes in the kitc ... k c tu s t o n as day on Christm

up to 24 hours ahead, ready for parboiling and roasting on the day.

There are tons of shortcuts that make life easier on Christmas Day. Gravy, stuffing and sauces can all be made well in advance and stored in the freezer. Even roast potatoes can be par-boiled and frozen ready to roast when you need them.

While you’re getting your shopping list sorted, you could also cross off your gift list with some easy to prepare foodie presents. Home-made chutney makes a great accompaniment for cheese and biscuits and is really simple to make. Try a twist on a hot toddy with lemon, clementine, honey, whisky and mixed dried fruits, or spiced apples, dates and ginger go wonderfully together too.

Rapeseed oil is the secret to perfect roast potatoes and I recommend Macintosh of Glendavney, which is grown, pressed and bottled right here in Aberdeenshire. It has a very high smoke point, so heat until it’s sizzling, pop the potatoes in and you’re guaranteed a crisp roast potato with a fluffy interior. Sides such as vegetables can be prepped and stored in cold water

Mulled wine can be a great base for a Christmas curd, infuse with orange zest, dried cranberries and cinnamon - simmer together, then blend and strain before gradually combining with egg yolks and sugar, until smooth and thick. Pour into sterilised jars and tie with a ribbon and you’ve got an indulgent treat for spreading on your Christmas morning croissants.

hristmas dinner tends to top most people’s list as one of the most stressful meals to prepare. However, it doesn’t have to be provided you get organised. Make your list, check it twice and make sure your Christmas is nice!

IN-BRIEF | 51

April date for Golf Pro-Am at Aberdeen Golf Links The 2022 Aberdeen Golf Links Pro-Am will take place from the 27-29 of April 2022. Each team consists of 3 amateur golfers and a professional. You can bring your own pro or alternatively the Scottish PGA will assign a well-known professional to your team for this wonderful competition. The 3 day Tartan Tour Tournament is played over 3 of the World's top 100 courses. Hole the winning putt in amongst the magnificent sand dunes at Trump International, walk in the footsteps of Old Tom Morris, enjoying stunning scenery at Cruden Bay and experience one of the finest front nines of links golf at Royal Aberdeen. For more information & to book your spot for April please visit aberdeengolflinks.com

O U R E V E R E V O LV I N G

Old fashioned Ingredients: Solera Vat Glenfiddich 15 | Demerara Sugar | Brazilian Bitters Borrowing staves from the distillery itself, we make sure every time a bottle comes out a new one goes in! In keeping with the blending style of Glenfiddich 15, the use of our Solera Vat means this liquid is constantly and subtly changing. We’ve been doing it since 2017 so the liquid inside is special! orchidcocktails.com

52 | IN-BRIEF

The Albyn: opening in November The Albyn is opening this month under the guidance of Simon Cruickshank and his business partner. Simon´s family have been in the hospitality business in Aberdeen for many years, they currently own and operate The Ploughman and Blacks Bar in Peterculter and previously owned The Bieldside Inn in Bieldside. Simon has returned from working in Marbella’s hospitality sector and has returned to Aberdeen with his young family. The Albyn will focus on Scottish classics in a refined and authentic atmosphere. The venue will utilise the best local produce and suppliers including lobster from Stonehaven, Forfar potatoes and craft beers from Peterhead.

November opening: New life for Under The Hammer Another November opening as the McGinty’s Group has announced the reopening of North Silver Streets’ muchloved Under The Hammer following its closure last year. The historic basement bar will return in early November following its refurbishment. Director of the company, Allan Henderson, commented, ‘As a local company, we are delighted to bring life back into this Aberdeen institution. We have built a strong name for the McGinty’s Group and Under The Hammer is another great addition to our portfolio’.

Make special moments memorable with the Kilted Chef bespoke catering services From small intimate weddings or celebrations to VIP dinners and dine at home menus, tailored to your favourite flavours or dietary requirements, Craig's cuisine celebrates the best of the North-east of Scotland. Craig will work with you to create a dining experience that meets your needs and specific tastes. For further information or to make an enquiry, contact craig.wilson@kiltedchef.co.uk or visit thekiltedchef.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFTS THEY'LL TREASURE FOREVER Original art, prints, unique homewares, lighting, furniture, scented candles, room sprays & diffusers PRYDE gift vouchers also available 86 Great Western Road, AB10 6QF Tel: 01224 379150 prydeaberdeen prydegallery.co.uk

Proud to play a key role in further raising Scotland’s profile as a worldclass food tourism destination.

INTERIORS | 55

Charlotte Garvie of Banchory’s Adesso Décor shares her tips for fabulous festive interiors…

ast year, many of us chose very traditional colour schemes, using red and gold or green and gold for our trees and home décor, in an attempt to recreate the joys of Christmas past. This year we’re seeing more schemes with flocked trees and garlands with neutral decorations in gold and silver. It’s a look with a Winter Wonderland theme. Luxe textures such as velvet, sequins and satin are again proving really popular but in much more muted and sophisticated tones than in previous years. Another trend that’s been gaining ground in the past few years is doorscaping. Decorating entranceways has become as important as having a Christmas tree. Our clients are looking for a big festive hit even before you cross the threshold with some continuing the trend into other seasons such as Easter, autumn and Halloween and even Valentine’s Day. There has been a boom in wreath making classes which is a lovely way to get into the festive spirit and have a meaningful decoration at the end of it. Instead of just one wreath, you can hang three in a vertical row on your front door for maximum impact. Decorating the lower half of your wreath and fading up to bare fir on the top arc is really effective. Don’t be restricted to the outline of the wreath, allow your decorations to splay out - it doesn’t have to be a perfect circle. Attach everything with floristry wire to stop your handiwork blowing away in the wind.

Although you can buy your decorations online, it’s can be more special to seek out some new buys in person. It’s a great way of marking the start of your personal festive season. If you’re looking for more unusual decorations, garden centres are a good option but independent home stores have great finds too. You’ll also find many independent creators at the festive markets in and around Aberdeen. Making your tree look really special doesn’t need to cost a fortune. You can start with a base of cheaper decorations in a neutral colour, or use one of the metallic shades, then add colour with some more expensive glass ornaments. Try using ribbon to tie your baubles to the tree branches. It give an instant upgrade but doesn’t cost a lot. A Christmas tree should be full of intrigue so picking up items over the years will ensure there is lots to sit and stare at. Lighting is a great way to keep the costs down. If your tree is properly lit, you’ll need a lot less in the way of decorations! This year, my advice would be to try and buy early if possible. There’s a global shortage of trees and lights and some stockists have already sold out. Order trees and lights as soon as possible in store or pre-order online to ensure festive delivery. Unit 4C, Burn O’Bennie Road, Banchory AB31 5NL adessodecor.com

56 | IN-BRIEF

CALA offers last chance for Help to Buy (Scotland) support The Scottish Government’s Help to Buy (Scotland) scheme is set to end next April. CALA Homes is offering a rare last chance for home seekers to take advantage of Help to Buy, on one- and two-bedroom apartments at two outstanding developments in Aberdeen. Fraser Carr, Sales and Marketing Director for CALA Homes (North) explained, ‘There are very few homes in Aberdeen still eligible for Help to Buy, so we are lucky to be able to offer purchasers not one but two fantastic developments that qualify until the scheme ends - Craibstone Estate and Southbank by CALA.’ The Help to Buy (Scotland) - Small Developer programme applies to new build properties worth up to £200,000 and helps fund up to 15% of a property’s purchase price, interest free for the duration, with the equity stake repayable at any time without penalty, or on sale of the home.

IN-BRIEF | 57

EthosEnergy CEO wins Top Executive award Ana Amicarella, the CEO at EthosEnergy Services has won the Top Executive 2021 award at the Experience Power awards held in San Antonio, Texas. She commented, “I am honoured to have won this award. But most of all, I am proud of everything our team has achieved over the last year despite challenging conditions.” Prior to EthosEnergy, Ana spent 22 years with GE and eight with Aggreko, where she was managing director for the Latin America business.

58 | IN-BRIEF

Local IT firm win Elevator contract Aberdeen-based io IT Services has secured a Scotland-wide contract with leading business development organisation, Elevator. Under the three-year deal, they will provide support for start-ups and growing companies through Elevator’s network of business centres across the north-east, Tayside and Lanarkshire. io is led by directors David McCready and Nick Pickering. The company provides IT support, consultancy, and strategy to small-and-medium-sized businesses throughout the UK and internationally.

WWW.DONNAMURRAYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

M.07780682732 E.garethjsthomson@gmail.com gthomsonmusic

60 | SALON 70

The

HOLLY & THE IVY

& THE MISTLETOE!

GARDENS | 61

KIRSTY MCLEAN ON HER FAVOURITE FESTIVE GREENERY..

n ancient times, plants and trees that remained green all year long brought special meaning for people in winter. In many places, they were thought to keep away witches, ghosts, evil spirits and illness. Our door wreaths were originally evergreen branches gathered into a circular shape and hung as a sign of victory and status. Laurel wreaths were given to the victors at the Olympic Games in ancient Greece. In Rome, emperors and victorious generals were crowned with laurel. Even our Christmas trees, a tradition imported by Prince Albert, have their distant cultural associations with rebirth and spring. Traditionally, Holly represented immortality and has been regarded as a plant of good omen with the red berries warding off witches, goblins and spirits. Pagans took it into their homes to shelter the elves and fairies and the Romans gave it as gifts during the festival of Saturnalia which ended with the winter solstice. Holly and mistletoe are now part of our Christmas iconography, but both were banned by the early Christian church due to connections with druids. The ban lasted until the 17th century. There’s a folk tradition that whoever brings the first holly into the house - husband or wife - at Christmas would rule the house for the next year. Must remember that one! When we kiss under the mistletoe, we’re recognising the plant’s long association with fertility! Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that attaches itself to a host tree or shrub through which it takes water and nutrients from the host plant, sometimes causing their death. It’s known for its medicinal qualities and has been used to cure epilepsy, ease toothache, cure a snakebite and of course, deter witches.

Whatever the history or tradition, there is nothing like the scent of fir or spruce when brought inside, nor the joy of having evergreens in our home to celebrate Winter solstice or Christmas, because they lift the spirits in the cold of winter. Having evergreens in the garden through the long winter months lifts the spirits too. Look for: Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ Flowers in late autumn and winter Viburnum tinus Flowers in late autumn/winter Ilex x altaclerensis (Holly) Plant Ilex, ‘Silver Queen’ (confusingly, a male variety) with ‘Golden King’ (equally confusing, this one’s a female variety) for an abundance of berries. Sarcococca Hookeriana Digyna Otherwise known as ‘sweet box’ and for good reason, its’ tiny fragrant, creamy-white flowers are produced in winter. Skimmia Rubella (male) Starts off in late autumn/early winter with amazing panicles of red or burgundy buds that open to fragrant white flowers in early spring Skimmia japonica ‘Nymans’ (female) Plant with a male skimmia nearby and it will produce berries in late autumn/early winter

Skimmia Magic Marlot (male) If grown in a sheltered situation in partial shade, this little jewel will produce scented flowers all through late winter and keep on flowering until spring! It can be a bit temperamental though Skimmia x Confusa ‘Kew Green’ (male) Clusters of creamy white fragrant flowers in winter, this male plant will pollinate female skimmias to produce berries Skimmia japonica ‘Reevsiana’ Self-pollinating shrub that produces long-lasting red berries. Cotoneaster Hyrbridus Pendulus Compact weeping tree producing red berries in late autumn followed by flowers in early spring Helleborus Niger, Harvington hybrids Clump forming small perennial that come in a range of colours that flower in late winter, early spring. Christmas Roses are a very specific variety called 'Niger'.

62 | ADVERTISEMENTS

eff Burns and Ivor Smith of Fifth Dimension share some ideas on making your Christmas party rather magical…

With Christmas fast approaching we thought we’d give you a few ideas on how to pep up your Christmas party. Whether you’re having a family party or providing corporate hospitality, in person or on line via Zoom or Teams, having the right entertainment can help create a great party atmosphere and make it an event to remember. As Smith and Burns, we've been helping to create the right ambience at events throughout the world for over 20 years. Ivor said, ‘We specialise in providing magical entertainment that is sure to create a great talking point for you event. From close up magic for dinners and mix and mingle style events to shows that are ideal for pre- or after-dinner entertainment. Whether it’s a large corporate event or an intimate dinner party we can add some special magic!’ Jeff added, ‘Our online entertainment packages have proved really popular over the last 18 months. We’ve entertained at private birthday parties, family Christmas parties, Business Awards events and staff Christmas parties. One of the highlights of our online events is making the magic happen in the hands of the audience members in their own homes and offices (yes that is possible). We also have special packages for company client events that features our Branded Magic where we combine the company’s message with our magic. It’s a great way to connect with current and potential clients subtly reminding them of a product, service and brand as they are entertained.’ Find out more at fifthdimension.biz

Makin Christ g mas magic al ‘Fifth D will blo imension w your m i nd!’ PRESS & JO U R N

‘If you w entertai ant to be astonis ned and go to onhed you must e Dimens of Fifth ion’s sh URI GE ows.’ LLE R

IN-BRIEF | 63

HRH The Princess Royal opens Mearns business HQ expansion The Princess Royal officially opened Ringlink’s head office expansion at Laurencekirk on 14 October. Ringlink Scotland is a rural business co-operative, owned by its 3000 members and managed to cater for the full scope of membership sectors which include: agriculture, haulage, construction, forestry, public sector and utility providers. The company has a turnover exceeding £50 million

and the business continues to invest and grow year on year. HRH The Princess Royal joined Ringlink staff, trainees, and VIPs for a tour of the old and new facilities to celebrate the landmark achievement of the business, before unveiling a plaque commemorating the opening of the new extension of the Cargill Centre.

New apprentices for Stewart Milne Group Stewart Milne Group has welcomed a host of new apprentices to its teams in Scotland. Apprentices work in a variety of trades such as plumbing, joinery, maintenance and design, undergoing a four-year programme to gain the skills and experience needed to develop a career in a sector which continues to face skills shortages. The new trainees have joined an existing team of 31 who are already progressing through their apprenticeship courses.

64 | IN-BRIEF

Second unit for Big Manny’s Pizza Big Manny’s Pizza, known for its large pizzas, is opening a second site in the city and is already planning further expansion for 2022. The new site near Pittodrie Stadium opens in November following a £300,000 fit-out that includes a £40,000 US-manufactured oven. It is expected to create 40 new full-time and part-time jobs and enable the business to produce up to 7000 pizzas each week. The founders have pencilled in plans to open a third city site at the start of next year, taking the number of staff up 100, while they are also looking to open an Aberdeenshire location in 2022. The growth plans have been boosted by a recent six figure investment from Simon Cowie, managing partner at awardwinning Aberdeen accountancy firm Infinity Partnership.

New face at Scott James & Associates A north-east investment specialist has added a key member of staff to help meet increased demand for sound financial advice since the onset of the pandemic. Scott James & Associates – an appointed representative of St. James’s Place Wealth Management, based in Aberdeen’s west end – has experienced record levels of demand for its services in 2020. Alaina Howie, who was previously a mortgage and protection specialist for an independent city-based firm and previously worked as a private banking manager for RBS, joins the business.

ADVERTISEMENTS | 65

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66 | IN-BRIEF

New face and new name at React Electrical Solutions React Electrical Solutions, formerly KLY Electrical, has celebrated its 10th anniversary in business with the appointment of a new director to support ambitious growth plans. Alex Walker, who previously completed his apprenticeship with the company, between 2016 and 2020, before accepting a role in the offshore oil and gas industry, will support founder and director Scott Kelly with the delivery of a long-term growth strategy. Alex takes up the role at the same time as a rebrand for the north-east electrical services which aims to expand its presence in the commercial, industrial and residential sectors. The company has just moved to new premises at the Westhill Business Centre in Arnhall Business Park.

68 | THINK PR

Husband holds charity fundraiser in wife’s honour

arole Macpherson was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer (SBC) of the liver in 2019, tragically passing away in July 2020. Grieving the loss, Carole’s husband, Scott, saw an opportunity to raise funds for SBC charities, METUPUK and Make2ndsCount, who work to increase the quality of life for patients. With years of experience in creative communications, Aberdeen’s leading marketing, PR and design agency, think, is supporting the project with strategic promotional activities and signature brand design. Scott commented, ‘I am blown away by the support from the team at think and I can’t thank them enough for offering their services and support to help organise the fundraiser’ The Carole Macpherson Memorial Fundraiser will be held at Meldrum House in Aberdeen on May 19, 2022. The event kicks off at 12pmwith a 9-hole round of golf, followed by a black-tie dinner and auction with charity Auctioneer, Alex Fleming as the evening’s keynote speaker. To find out more or book tickets, visit our website: carolemacmemorialdinner.co.uk

CALA Homes open two new developments CALA Homes has launched not one, but two new developments this autumn. The first, Craibstone Estate South, is the latest phase of the housebuilder’s landmark Craibstone community. The development boasts a picturesque setting surrounded by mature trees and woodland walks but is only five miles from the centre of the city and has excellent transport links via the nearby AWPR both north and south of Aberdeen. Craibstone Estate South will comprise a collection of three, four and five bedroom homes and forms part of the overall masterplan for the site which will

see the creation of 700 homes overall plus commercial units. The second development is situated in the sought-after suburb of Cults, where CALA has been creating new neighbourhoods for more than 10 years. Friarsfield West is CALA’s final phase of its Cults masterplan and will offer two, three, four and five bedroom homes. The new developments are already proving popular, with reservations made at each prior to launching. Find out more about Craibstone Estate South and Friarsfield West by visiting cala.co.uk

Befriend a Child to hold Big Kids Ball Local children’s charity Befriend a Child have announced the return of their annual Big Kids Ball on February 25th 2022. The Carnival Ball is being held at The Chester Hotel and is set to offers a night of live entertainment, a delicious three course dinner, a live band, raffles and an auction. For a limited time, tickets are on sale for £85pp or £850 for a table of ten. The funds raised from the event will enable Befriend a Child to continue

their befriending programme for local children growing up in difficult life circumstances. The charity’s programmes and projects have been a lifeline for the young people they support, especially during the last challenging year. For more information and to book your table contact Tara@ befriendachild.org.uk or call Befriend a Child on 01224 210060. Tickets cost £95pp (£85 at early bird offer price) and table will be made up of up to ten guests.

ADVERTISEMENTS | 69

70 | NEW YEAR

Hogmanay is usually one of the biggest Scottish celebrations. For many years, it was a bigger event in Scotland than Christmas, particularly when Christmas celebrations were forbidden by law.

NEW YEAR | 71

s we pass from 2021 into 2022, we thought we’d find out how the start of a new year is marked in other countries… We have a tradition of First Footing and bringing gifts to friends and neighbours to ensure prosperity in the New Year. The Danes ensure good fortune by smashing plates on their friends’ doorsteps. The more debris, the more popular you are. Food naturally plays an important part in the celebrations in many countries. In Brazil, eating lentils is said to ensure prosperity, as is eating seven raisins. In Columbia and Spain, people eat 12 grapes at midnight, accompanying each one with a wish for one of the subsequent months of the year. In a similar vein to our silver sixpence in the Christmas pud, the Austrians look for a lucky charm in their suckling pig, which is followed by ice cream. The Estonians seem to be world champions at stuffing themselves silly, making seven, nine or twelve trips to the table on New Year’s Eve, each trip representing strength. In other countries, the focus is on scaring away evil spirits. Japan and South Korea use bells to see in the New Year. In Japan, the bells are rung 108 times, presumably this is sufficient for evil spirits to move somewhere quieter. Aside from bell ringing, Japanese families mark the New Year by cleaning and decorating the entire house together, a suggestion we can’t see gaining popularity in teenage bedrooms. The Puerto Ricans take this cleaning frenzy even further, cleaning their homes, cars, gardens and streets. Some even through buckets of water from their windows to expel bad fortune.

Of course, some customs seem quite peculiar. The Swiss, for example, place a pile of whipped cream on their floors and leave it there to ensure prosperity and abundance. In some parts of Romania, people dress as dancing bears, which have the power to protect and heal people as well as scaring off evil. In the Philippines, polka dot clothing, round food and pockets full of coins are said to bring luck and prosperity. The Vietnamese choose to start the year in a brand new traditional outfit, while the Italians also favour new clothes and symbolic gifts. In some parts of South America, choosing the right colour of undergarments can influence what the coming year holds. Red underpants bring love, while yellow improves your bank balance and green is lucky. In Johannesburg, some residents in the Hillbrow districtpresumably big fans of Marie Kondo – like to start the year without any unwanted items, so they throw old furniture and unwanted appliances out of the window. Falling fridges and microwaves could mean someone else’s New Year starting with a trip to hospital. In parts of South America, it used to be common to take a walk on New Year’s Eve carrying an empty suitcase. The suitcase walk was supposed to ensure that the year to come would be full of travel and adventures. Maybe we should all dust off our cabin bags and give this a go? Wherever you find yourself in the world and whatever colour your pants are, we wish you all a great 2022!

If you think back to your own childhood Christmases, your fondest memories may be of simple family traditions like leaving a mince pie out for Santa and a carrot for Rudolf, visiting Santa in his grotto, or rushing in to your parents’ bedroom at an unearthly hour in the morning to babble about the sweets and toys in the stocking at the end of your bed.

KIDS | 73

mall children are often charmingly gullible, so it’s easy to create Christmas traditions that will bring a touch of magic to the season, without bankrupting yourself in the process. Some, such as Elf on the Shelf, are easy to find at local retailers and there are thousands of ideas online for pranks for the elves to play in the run up to Christmas. Making your own tree decorations keeps the kids occupied and provides another annual tradition. Try rolling out air drying clay and using cookie cutters to make fir tree shapes, stars or use round cutters for festive baubles. Pierce each shape so you can tie it on to the tree and leave it to dry. The shapes can then be painted or taken outside and covered in glue and glitter. If your children are older and artistically gifted, they could paint the baubles to represent each member of the family. Many neighbourhoods get rather competitive when it comes to festive lighting, so driving round to see who can spot which houses have the most over the top decorations can be fun. If the weather outside is frightful, cosy up each night and watch a Christmas movie before bed time. In a similar vein, there are lots of Christmas stories you can read before bedtime, helping build excitement before Christmas Eve. Adults and older teenagers might prefer a book of Christmas ghost stories or murder mysteries, though it hardly suggests a season of goodwill to all men. A mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows and a big bowl of popcorn adds to the mood. A family tradition of visiting the cinema or attending a Christmas concert or panto is a great way of marking the start of your festive season.

You can also persuade kids to help with baking, whether it’s helping to stir the Christmas pudding in November, or making simple treats to give to friends and relatives. Peppermint creams and truffles are both simple, if a little messy, to make, or you could make cookies or assemble and decorate a gingerbread house. Christmas Eve boxes are a relatively new tradition in the UK. Most contain new pyjamas, treats and perhaps a family board game to keep everyone amused before Santa comes. You can expand on this by making an advent box filled with 24 tiny treats. Make sure each family member gets a fair distribution of presents. On Christmas morning, Santa may have left a clue or two to prove he’s been. Floury footprints, a half-eaten mince pie or a pile of sparkly reindeer poop in the garden. It’s also fun to cover the open doorways of children’s rooms with wrapping paper, so they have to break through before getting their gifts. Don’t try this with closed doors unless you fancy spending Christmas morning in A&E. Christmas is also a time for giving, so allowing the kids a set budget and taking them to the supermarket at the start of December to collate a donation to a local community larder or foodbank might make another good family tradition. Alternatively, they could donate some unwanted toys to a local charity shop or choose a gift for a local toy appeal. Whatever you choose, the focus should be on making memories and spreading a little bit of joy.

74 | COMPETITION

WIN

WIN a stay at the stunning glenapp castle

f you’ve ever fancied whisking a friend or loved one away to a castle, now’s your chance! We’ve teamed up with the luxurious Glenapp Castle on the breath-taking Ayrshire coast for this special competition. Our winner and their guest will enjoy an overnight stay and a six course gourmet tasting menu dinner. A fantastic Scottish breakfast is also included. Glenapp Castle is hidden away on a private estate with 110 acres of stunning gardens and woodland. Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to activities as this award-winning hotel offers over 65 experiences including perfume making, archery, stargazing, foraging, an interactive falconry display and even the chance to brush up on your Scottish Fiddling skills! If you’re feeling adventurous you could book the castle’s unique Hebridean Sea Safari experience. This boating adventure combines searching for distant inns, spotting coastal castles and rare marine life. Sea Safari guests go glamping on Jura in the Inner Hebrides, staying in African safari inspired teepees. Jura has under 200

inhabitants and is also home to an Atlantic seal colony. If a Sea Safari seems a bit too adventurous and luxury is more your thing, check out The Endeavour. This is Glenapp’s amazing new penthouse apartment which occupies the entire top floor of the Victorian Baronial castle. There’s over 4,500 square feet of opulent accommodation, encompassing four bedrooms, five bathrooms, a period kitchen, media room, library and games room, sauna, beauty and treatment room! The Endeavour is for exclusive use and all bookings come with a personal butler and private chef. To enter, go to trendmagazine.co.uk and answer this question:

What's the name of Glenapp's new penthouse apartment?

glenappcastle.com

COMPETITION | 75

There’s over 4,500 square feet of outstanding accommodation, encompassing four bedrooms, five bathrooms, a kitchen, media room, library and games room, sauna, beauty and treatment room!

If your social calendar resembles that of a particularly reclusive hermit, grab a few friends and book your places at one of Trend’s events. Dress up, enjoy a cocktail or some superb food, entertainment and a bit of a catch up. Not only will you all have a great time, but it’s also the chance to help the North-east’s local charities raise much needed funds.

NEOS | 77

2022 DATES FOR YOUR DIARIES

PERF SPEC ECT FOR A NY FOR M IAL OCC A O info@ RE DETAIL SION. trend maga S EMAIL: zine.c o.uk

5th FEBRUARY

18th MARCH

22ndAPRIL

Gin & Jazz Lunch

Fashion Lunch

Garden Party

MALMAISON

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

Come and enjoy a fabulous two-course lunch with a glass of fizz on arrival, a goodie bag and much more. The fashion from some of Aberdeen’s best loved stores will be show-casing their spring/summer collections.

THE MARCLIFFE HOTEL & SPA Enjoy a sumptuous Afternoon Tea with a glass of champagne on arrival wearing your finest Garden Party attire with the chance to win Best Dressed Lady and Hat of the Day.

TICKETS | TBC

TICKETS | TBC PROUDLY SUPPORTING

For more details email: info@trendmagazine.co.uk

SOC I E T Y FOC US

Trend Fashion Rev de Lunch Cuba

SOC I E T Y FOC US

Sally Hutchinson , Debbie McFarlane, Dez Young, Claire Yule

Diane Ferguson, Jackie Yule

WHO:

Trend Lolo +Magazine Co, @hamishmunro, Fashion Lunch Tiger Lily Boutique and Country Ways Autumn/Winter Fashion Show.

W H AT: Trend WH heldAT: it’s hugely popular second fashion

Audrey Lawson, Claire Anderson

lunch The Trend of theteam yearwere at Malmaison delighted Aberdeen to welcome guests and to their this very timebelated were delighted Fashion Lunch to support supporting new Aberdeen MHA. The charity, ladies enjoyed Abernecessities. a 2 courseGuests lunch with hearda all glass about of fizz theoncharity arrival,from were Dani gifted Fletcher-Herd goodie bags, and watched were an entertained Autumn Winter by MCfashion Jeff Burns show from from Fifth Dimension Premiere Productions who also provided and perused closeexhibitors up magic for the Tipsyguests. HouseFashions and The were Aberdeen supplied Clinic, from @hamishmunro, who kindly gaveTiger themLily all Boutique, a cupcake!Country Ways and Perfect Bridal Rooms.

Angie Hendry, Angela Ferguson, Jen Markou

WHERE: WH

Malmaison Malmaison Hotel Aberdeen

Jenna Ritchie, Fiona Taylor, Norma Taylor, Olive Stewart

Margaret Johnston, Jacqui Brown, Lisa Douglas, Holley Buchanan, Fiona Campbell

Sharon Miller, Zoe Bavidge

Kate Johnstone, Ros McCombie

Sharon Armour, Iris Forbes

Lee Jobson, Sheona Forrest

S O CI E T Y FO CU S

Alison Shaw, Claire McDonald, Joann Robertson, Carrie Doig, Matthew Gray, Alan Still, Stuart McDonald

Tennis Centre Fundraising Ball

WHO:

Garioch Sports Centre

W H AT:

Gordon Booth, Lynn Booth, Ashleigh Booth

Garioch Sports Centre hosted their Tennis Centre Fundraising Ball on Saturday 16th October 2021 at Thainstone Exchange. Over 300 guests attended for an evening of entertainment which included a Q&A with special guest Judy Murray, followed by music from the amazing band Waterfront. The event was a great success which raised around £20k towards their ambition to bring Tennis facilities to the Inverurie community based Sports Centre.

Barry Sangster, Lynne Sangster, Dale Bruce, Steven Bruce

WHE R E :

Thainstone Exchange

Graeme Hay, Gillian Hay, Dawn Cox, Gary Cox

Kevin Bonarius, Judy Murray, Beverley Mess

Rod Mess, Fiona Searle, Nick Searle, Tracey Baxter, Chris Baxter

STV Appeal heads and tails Andrew Simmonds, Charlotte Allen, Alicia Lumsden, Rox Miskelly, Chris McPherson, Scott Miskelly

BEHIND THE BUSINESS

Alpha Clinic Meet the husband and wife team Leah and Thanassi Athanassopoulos who own Aberdeen’s Alpha Clinic specialising in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Being united in marriage and business certainly has its advantages…

lpha Clinic is the first Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Clinic in the North of Scotland. It is conveniently located in the West End of Aberdeen and provides a discrete, specialist service offering advanced surgical treatments to improve appearance and quality of life with minimum down time and advanced techniques. Leah explains, ‘We met 10 years ago in Edinburgh. We hit it off immediately and have been inseparable ever since. We travelled to New Zealand so Thanassi could take on additional training and then to Holland and Vienna before returning to Scotland. Our boys are three and five now and really keep both of us on our toes!

counselling, but she has scaled this back to one evening a week.’ ‘Luckily we work together well,’ says Leah. ‘It helps that we have such distinct roles. There’s no overlap. Thanassi deals with the surgery and I take care of everything else. We love working together. It’s been really exciting to build a business together and share in both the good times and support each other through the hard times. I think we’d both agree that it’s sometimes difficult to not talk about work all the time, so we have some rules we try to follow. One of them is that Sunday is family day and there’s no clinic talk allowed!

‘As well as his surgical work at the clinic, Thanassi is an NHS Consultant at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. He specialises in reconstructive surgery of the face and body after injury and cancer as well as surgery for facial weakness.

‘Both of us love our work, so it would be easy to get totally absorbed in our jobs and business. We’re both family orientated and spend as much time as we can as a family, whether that’s on holiday, trying to keep on top of the endless piles of laundry the boys produce, or just talking over dinner.’

Thanassi adds, ‘We’re both involved with the University of Aberdeen too. I’m an Honorary Senior Lecturer at Aberdeen University Medical School and Leah’s a part time lecturer in Counselling for two days a week. Leah previously had her own practice, specialising in relationship

Thanassi concludes, ‘We already have plans to open a second clinic and have purchased a property in Inverness which will open next year. We have a really wonderful team of staff and nurses and as we grow we will be looking to bring on new team members.’

10 ALBYN TERRACE AB10 1YP

TEL: 01224 232428 ALPHACLINIC.CO.UK

82 | ADVERTISEMENTS

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