Gorgeously gifted
Wrap it up with our local gift guide
With
all the
trimmings
Take flight to Turkey
The latest party make up
Apply online now for August 2025 entry at www.rgc.aberdeen.sch.uk/apply
Balfour+Manson: Supporting
you through your accident claim, every step of the way
If you have been injured in an accident you will probably have lots of questions or concerns about what happens next.
Our friendly team of solicitors are here to help. They will support you and answer any questions you may have about how to make a claim and any compensation you might be able to claim as a result of your injuries.
Our solicitors have a wealth of experience in dealing with
claims arising out of road traffic accidents, accidents in the workplace, offshore accidents, fishing and farming accidents as well as people injured abroad.
Each type of claim is different, but we will have an initial meeting with you, either in person, by phone or online, to talk you through the process. We will listen to your story and support you through the whole claim process. Our personal injury team do not charge a fee for our initial meetings and in
most cases, we can offer a nowin no-fee service. This means that if you win your claim, you will keep the majority of your damages and if your claim is unsuccessful then there is no cost to you.
“We are very proud of the results we have achieved for our clients and we will do everything we can to get the compensation you are entitled to. We will support you every step of the way and will do our very best to put you at ease.”
HEALTH & BEAUTY
08 Never too old: Boost your health and wellbeing with Sport Aberdeen’s Active Lifestyles programme
10 Beauty: Julian Stronach’s guide to party makeup
GOING OUT
6 Six of the best: get festive!
18 Win tickets to Chicago at HMT
56 Society: All the frocks, all the faces
60 Trend events: book now for 2025
GIFT GUIDE
42 Gorgeously gifted: our epic gift guide’s here to help with getting Christmas sorted!
FASHION
22 ‘Tis the season: the best festive fashion 28 Fashion editorial: Office to OMG!
TRAVEL, LIFESTYLE & LEISURE
40 Charity focus: Clan Cancer Care
59 Travel: Turkey with all the trimmings (where else at this time of year?)
64 Meet Megan Steele of Lochter Activity Centre
54 Gardens: Kirsty McLean on gardens without borders
FROM THE EDITOR
Hello again,
Spring has its charms, but we think the run up to Christmas is our favourite time of year at Trend. Of course the run up takes a lot longer for those of us who start buying every single festive recipe magazine from August onwards than it is for the ones who manage to sort out all their food and gifts on Christmas Eve.
Some of the Christmas magic is pure nostalgia for the kind of Christmas that’s never really existed outwith Richard Curtis movies. It’s a city where everyone has a colourful woolly scarf and a rosy glow. It’s a city where the snow never turns to slush and there’s never a problem trying to find a parking space.
This season’s all about giving in to silliness and finding joy in all that’s a little twee. It’s about joining in and having fun rather than being painfully sophisticated. Eat too much, watch a million ancient festive sitcom episodes and team your tasteless Christmas jumper with the hat from your cracker.
If finding the perfect present eludes you, then turn to our gift guide. We’ve rounded up some of the best the city and shire have to offer. Shopping locally helps create a better economy and a better city for us all and, frankly, it’s lot more fun than shopping online at some corporate behemoth. You can pick up some hot chocolate and cake in town for a start and maybe buy yourself a little something too!
If you’re not feeling festive yet, you’ll also find features on winter getaways, healthy living, fashion, beauty, gardening and business in this issue.
We hope you have a wonderful festive season and we’ll see you again in January.
Love,
Everyone at Trend x
PUBLISHED BY
TREND PRODUCTIONS LTD
PO Box 11858, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire AB39 9AN
info@trendmagazine.co.uk trendmagazine.co.uk
DIRECTOR Gill Buyers
gill@trendmagazine.co.uk
EDITOR Alison Daniels alison@trendmagazine.co.uk
ADVERTISING info@trendmagazine.co.uk
DESIGN Claire Grant
cgrant@trendmagazine.co.uk
ACCOUNTS Jill Walker
jwalker@trendmagazine.co.uk
PRINT Stephens & George Print Group
Contributors
Kirsty McLean gardendesignscotland.com
On the Cover
MODEL
Alana Wilson of Premiere Productions
PHOTOGRAPHER
Donna Murray donnamurrayphotography.com
THANKS to our retailers Hamishmunro, Lolo + Co, Tiger Lily Boutique and Bellino.
Congratulations to Jill Donaldson and Rowan Stewart, who each won a pair of tickets to see 101 Dalmatians The Musical at HMT.We’re sure they and their guests will all have a fabulous night out.
01 02 03
FAYRES, PLEASE: LET’S SHOP
Start your season with some festive shopping at one of the many local Christmas Fayres or head to Charlie House’s Curated in the Quad at Marischal College next to the Winter Village. It’s open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 15th November till 22nd December.
OH YES IT IS: PANTO SEASON
For a surprisingly enjoyable night out, head for your local pantomime production. Inverurie, Stonehaven and Newtonhill generally have excellent productions or you could catch the Attic Theatre’s take on Sleeping Beauty at the Tivoli from, 5th-22nd December or Jack and the Beanstalk at HMT from 30th November till January 5th.
GET CRAFTY: TAKE A FESTIVE CRAFT WORKSHOP
From wreath-making to making marbled baubles, November and December abound with opportunities to create a homemade Christmas. There are kids’ workshops and lots for adults too. Hobbycraft have a great selection if you’re looking for something central, or you could make your own felted gonk at Chapel of Garioch Village Hall or a wreath at Barra Castle or Haddo. Check eventbright.com for something that appeals.
Don your Santa hat, wrap up warmly and head out for our pick of the best festive events across the city and shire……
04 05 06
THROWBACK:
MAD FRIDAY
Friday 20th December is Mad Friday, a magical evening when the freezing town centre is heaving with blokes with no jackets and women dressed for a tropical heatwave. A night of ill-advised liaisons, questionable cocktails and regurgitated kebabs invariably ensues. If you’d rather take a more civilised approach, try The Tippling House’s wine tasting The 12 Wines of Christmas on the 19th instead. Tickets from thetipplinghouse.com/tastings
TARTAN WINDBAGS: RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS AT THE MUSIC HALL
Drag yourself away from the leftover turkey curry and head to the Music Hall for an energetic night with the Red Hot Chilli Pipers. Other festive gig re-energisers at the Music Hall include Abbamania’s Christmas Party on the 13th of December, a fundraising Ceilidh for NSPCC/ChildLine on the 30th November, or the Bloody Marys at the Lemon Tree on 21st December Tickets from Aberdeenperformingarts.com
GREAT BALLS OF FIRE: STONEHAVEN FIREBALLS
Bring in the New Year at Stonehaven’s Fireball Ceremony. Head for the harbour or High Street by 10pm for the best view of the action. It’s free, but donations are welcome to help defray the costs involved. Find out more at stonehavenfireballs.com
Never too old Sport Aberdeen’s Active Lifestyles Programme
There’s a lot of evidence that shows that exercising as we get older or if we suffer a chronic health condition makes a significant improvement in our quality of life, but it’s often difficult to know where to start. That’s where Sport Aberdeen’s Active Lifestyles programme comes in. The programme offers specially designed exercise activities for older adults, people with long-term health conditions like diabetes or pulmonary problems, stroke recovery, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, being overweight,
coping with chronic pain or for those who are just starting out.
In some cases, people are referred to classes by their GP, physio, dietician or occupational therapist, but you can also join in without being referred. There are around 25 referral classes a week. There are activities across the city from Northfield and Dyce to Cults and Kincorth. Activities on offer include pickle ball, walking football for ladies and men, seated exercise classes, strength and balance activities, gym work and circuits. There are swimming classes and pool activities for adults too.
There are Move More classes at Maggie’s Centre and Good Boost classes for those with musculoskeletal conditions like
fibromyalgia and arthritis where AI tech is used to create bespoke programmes for each class member. There are Good Boost classes in the pool at Northfield and Tullos and land-based classes at Northfield.
The Counterweight programme involves Counterweight, Grampian NHS and Aberdeen Sport coming together in a combination of education, exercise and a healthy diet.
All the Active Lifestyles activities and classes have been designed by Sport Aberdeen’s expert team and are delivered by really supportive class leaders. You work at your own pace and the wide variety of activities on offer means there’s bound to be something you love, rather than exercise being difficult, painful or a chore.
If you’re more the outdoor type, there are healthy walking groups across the city, organised in conjunction with Paths for All. Walks tend to be largely on the flat and can last up to an hour, with three levels of intensity. There are even opportunities to volunteer as a walk leader if there isn’t a group in your area.
groups are free, with classes costing £4 or less each. There are Sport Aberdeen memberships which offer better value if you’re attending more than one session a week and the Get Active For Less scheme offers discounts depending on circumstance.
As well as the physical health benefits, joining the Active Lifestyles programme brings tremendous social benefits, meeting new people, having a chat and making new friends, all of which have a positive benefit on wellbeing. The walking
Active Lifestyles is about adding years to your life and life to your years!
Find out more at sportaberdeen.co.uk or email ActiveLifestyles@sportaberdeen.co.uk
Trust our accredited coaches to guide participants through a progressive pathway, advancing in line with their individual ability and skills.
Perfect your party look
We asked makeup artist Julia Stronach for her advice on the hottest party looks this season…
A red lip is a festive classic that never goes out of style. If your makeup is normally minimalist, you might prefer to tone down your eye makeup in order for it not to feel too much. Sometimes a little sparkle and a pretty set of strip lashes teamed with winged eyeliner can work wonders for making the eyes pop!
A mascara that’ll stand up to the rigours of Mad Friday is another must. Benefit’s ‘Bad Gal’ is a firm favourite. The waterproof version lasts all day.
Eyeliner can be tricky, but go with ones that look like a felt tip pen. Tilt your head back while looking in the mirror, while keeping your eye open and horizontally ‘print’ the lash line with the pen. Stop and take blinks in between to allow your eyes to replenish moisture. Keep it thin on the inside, and thicker on the outside, tailing off into a wing in the corner. A little practice really helps!
Remember that the more you look after your skin, the better result you’ll get from makeup. It’s always worth treating yourself to a facial, and having your skincare in check well before a big night out.
Lastly, if you’ve been applying the same makeup look for years, take it right back to basics. Really study and understand your facial features, skin type and eye shape. You could book a makeup lesson or watch some tutorials on YouTube and have fun trying out new ideas. You could even get together with a couple of friends and relive your teenage years by giving each other a makeover.
When you know what you are working with, what to disguise and what to emphasise, the rest becomes so much clearer!
Julia Stronach Makeup | 07784 621280 www.juliastronach.co.uk | @julzstron
The Skin Bothy 16 Carden Place
Aberdeen, AB10 1FX
theskinbothy.co.uk
jan@theskinbothy.co.uk 07713 358563
Professional skincare and rejuvenation clinic
Situated within Alpha Hospital in the west end of Aberdeen, The Skin Bothy has become one of the most highly sought after aesthetic clinics in the city.
With visits described by clients as empowering, all treatments are delivered with exceptional care and integrity by a fully-trained team of medical professionals.
When you choose The Skin Bothy you are choosing:
• Experience and safety over financial gain
• Unrivalled range of treatments
• Expert medical team
• In depth product knowledge
• NMC registered nurses
NEW WEIGHT-LOSS PROGRAMME
The Skin Bothy now offer weight management accredited by The National Medical Weight Loss Programme and SCOPE obesity education.
Your private consultations will be with INP Jan Leiper-Whiteford who will be there for every step of your journey,
discussing benefits and medically managing any issues. These in-clinic consultations offer holistic care with medical guidance, monthly weigh-ins and assessments.
Your new beginning is here, and The Skin Bothy will help you reach your goal. Visit us online for more details.
Calum joins our winning team Andrew Scott Dental
Andrew Scott Dental Care is pleased to welcome the newest member of our winning team. Calum McNeil, who offers General and Implant Dentistry, is joining our state of the art Queen’s Road practice this November.
Calum completed his undergraduate dental degree in 2012 at the University of Dundee. He worked as a general dentist in Aberdeen before joining Andrew Scott Dental Care. He has been providing high quality private and NHS dentistry for the last 12 years, developing his skills and attending many post-graduate courses.
Calum’s main passion in dentistry lies in oral surgery and more specifically implant dentistry. In September 2023 Calum completed a 2 year post graduate diploma in Advanced Implant Dentistry through the Academy of Practical Advanced Dentistry (UK). Calum currently also works 2 days a week in practice near Dundee where
his practice is limited exclusively to implant dentistry. Calum has now placed over a hundred implants, working in 2 practices dedicated to implant placement over the previous few years, and looks forward to placing many more in years to come.
Calum welcomes all new patients for both implant placement and general dentistry and works closely with the rest of the team at Andrew Scott Dental Care to ensure the highest standard of patient care. Calum’s goal of treatment is always to leave the patient with a stable and long-lasting smile they can be proud of many years into the future.
In his spare time Calum enjoys playing and watching football, so he’s particularly pleased that the practice is the Official Dental Partner of Aberdeen Football Club. Calum also enjoys running and socialising with friends.
Smile your way to a white Christmas
If a brighter smile is at the top of your wish list from Santa, Andrew Scott Dental Care has a range of tooth whitening treatments available.
Dental therapist Jodie Snook explained, ‘Our dentists require an initial consultation to ensure dental fitness prior to whitening and a discussion on the best route of whitening to take. The safest and best way to a whiter smile is always under the prescription of a dentist.
‘Blanc One is our in-surgery teeth whitening system
which provides instant results and no post-operative sensitivity. There are two types, one that yields more subtle but enhancing results and one that aims to achieve more intense results.
‘Our at home whitening kit includes bespoke trays, prescription whitening gel along with support and follow up appointments.’
‘When it comes to tooth whitening, Andrew Scott Dental Care will give you something to smile about!’
Friskis Aberdeen the perfect combination of fitness and fun
Friskis Aberdeen is accessible, affordable and part of Friskis&Svettis, the largest exercise association in Sweden. They’re not-for-profit with a mission to get people enjoying exercise throughout life.
A Friskis Jympa class combines cardiovascular training with strength, balance and flexibility, all matched to upbeat music. Everyone works at their own pace, so it’s suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.
For those who love the outdoors, there are Viking Hiking Nordic walking sessions in Hazlehead Park.
If you want to feel good and get fitter go and see for yourself. Classes are drop-in and pay as you go. Quote TREND for a free class. Why not also join them for a special Christmas Jympa at 10am on 14 December at Cults Sports Complex in aid of Save the Children.
E: aberdeen@friskissvettis.co.uk | facebook.com/fsaberdeen instagram.com/friskisaberdeen | friskissvettis.co.uk/aberdeen
pride in our personalised customer service, ensuring that everyone leaves feeling confident and inspired. We aim to cater to every style and personality, offering sizes 8-24 across our collections.
Fall into Autumn Style
Wrap up this Autumn with Country Ways and their latest arrivals for AW24! From cory long quilts such as this Barbour Clarence jacket, to the super stylish Sheringham coat from Hunt & Hall, there’s something new to discover in each store. Look out for the latest limited editions from Fairfax & Favor too!
Open 7 days a week at Aberdeen & Banchory or shop online with free postage on orders over £70.
Reveal
Your Best Self This Winter with Dr. Siobhan Hewson
Looking for a subtle yet empowering refresh this season? Dr. Siobhan Hewson offers bespoke facial aesthetics treatments designed to enhance your natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for antiwrinkle solutions, dermal fillers, or something to rejuvenate you, Dr. Siobhan’s tailored approach ensures results that leave you looking refreshed and ready for the festive season.
Dr. Siobhan brings extensive expertise and a commitment to delivering safe, low-risk, non-invasive procedures. As an expert dentist and aesthetic practitioner, she carefully plans each treatment, using only the most suitable techniques and products to give you the look you want—refreshed, youthful, and naturally you.
Ready to reveal a refreshed version of yourself this festive season? Book your consultation today to begin your journey to looking and feeling your best; with trusted, professional care.
Contact us now to secure your spot before the festive season: www.theterraceaesthetics.co.uk | t.01224 641773 Feel confident. Feel radiant. Feel like you again this festive season.
Win tickets to chicago at hMt
Get the year off to a great start with a trip to see Chicago at HMT. We have two pairs of tickets for the opening night up for grabs. The show runs from January 14-18 and features Kevin Clifton as Billy Flynn, and Faye Brookes as Roxie Hart.
The fast-paced plot features murder, greed, corruption, exploitation, adultery and treachery and some legendary song and dance numbers.
To enter, go to trendmagazine. co.uk and answer this question: Who stars as Billy Flynn?
Bright eyes
Pack up your under eye bags, banish dark circles and wipe out signs of aging with Treat Co this winter.
We’re now stocking Katherine Daniels’ Anti-Fatigue Eye Masks. These large eye masks are the ultimate at home skin preparation for flawless make-up and as a smoothing, hydrating, firming, brightening treat. They visibly improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, dark circles and eyelid droop.
Book our Anti-Ageing Deluxe Eye Treatment in the salon. This reduces puffiness and dark circles, leaving skin revitalised, hydrated, plumped and bright. For long term effectiveness a course of treatments is recommended. Proven to decrease lines by 41% and increase skin hydration by 56%.
We also offer a free consultation for our A|C|C|O|R Plasma Pen bespoke treatment which gives tightens and resurfaces the skin, for a smoother, fresher appearance.
Call us on 01346 583365 or visit treatcompany.co.uk to find out more and to discover our complete range of treatments.
After Before
CRAFTED PERFECTION, ENDURING BRILLIANCE
Since its inception, Ice Cube has embodied Chopard's commitment to purity and precision.The collection's minimalist aesthetic, inspired by modern architecture, is elevated by ethical gold, reflecting Chopard's devotion to sustainability. The meticulous craftsmanship, perfected over years of research, ensures that each piece radiates lasting brilliance and embodies a refined, enduring style that transcends trends. Worn by brand ambassador Bella Hadid.
Chopard’s minimalist iconic Ice Cube range. A dazzling fusion of simplicity, purity and beauty in ethical gold, with or without diamonds. Only at
Tis the season
MSH METALLIC JUMPSUIT £79
HAMISHMUNRO
SPARKLY BUCKET BAG £42
TIGER LILY BOUTIQUE
SHOES MODEL’S OWN
PENNY BLACK TROUSERS £160
FIL COUPE BLACK AND GOLD BLOUSE £125
TED BAKER BAG £119
ALL LOLO + CO
POMODORO SEQUINNED TROUSERS £104
MOS MOSH SEQUINNED BLOUSE £159
BOTH BELLINO BAG AS BEFORE
SEQUINNED DRESS
BAG AS BEFORE BOTH TIGER LILY BOUTIQUE SHOES MODEL’S OWN
CLARETTE
£110
OUI ANIMAL PRINT PLEATED SKIRT £145
OUI SPARKLY JUMPER £129
GABOR AMIEN SCOOP FRONT SUEDE ANKLE BOOT £125 ALL HAMISHMUNRO
BAG AS BEFORE LOLO + CO
THANKS TO OUR MODEL ALANA WILSON OF PREMIERE PRODUCTIONS, TO OUR RETAILERS, LOLO + CO, BELLINO, HAMISHMUNRO AND TIGER LILY BOUTIQUE AND TO MALMAISON ABERDEEN FOR HOSTING US.
Office to OMG!
When it comes to our wardrobes, we’re all for multi-tasking. Our picks will work whether you’re planning a takeover in the boardroom or just trying to get to the bar for more cocktails. Swap out shirts for something with a touch of silk or lace and trade in your ballerina pumps for skyscraper heels. Ramp up your accessories and dazzle…
Tiger Lily
Tiger Lily
The Platform.
The Platform.
Lolo+Co
Lolo+Co
Open Mon-Sat 10.00-17.00 Sun 12.00-16.00 The Old Station, Station Brae, Macduff AB44 1UL make your way to Station Brae, Macduff Looking for
• Radiofrequency Facials Laser
• Hair Removal (Bikini/Under arm/Chin/Cheek/Neck)
• Microneedling
• HydraFacial send the code MTER7RDF to info@thelondons-mayfairclinic.com we’ll give you 20% off.
Moles and Skin Lesions
We also offer skin mole screening and a wide range of treatments for skin lesions including: warts, verrucas, moles, skin tags, cherry angiomas, sun spots, pigmentations and seborrheic keratoses.
Tired all the time? Book a blood test If you’re feeling tired and run down all the time, book a blood test. Tiredness can be a result of a busy or stressful lifestyle or a medical condition. Our test measures 34 biomarkers.
Aesthetic Beauty Inverurie: Take a seat for stronger pelvic floor muscles
We don’t really talk about the impact of weak pelvic floor muscles on our lives, but the Royal College of Gynaecologists reports that at least 60% of women suffer one or more symptom of poor pelvic health – from embarrassing bladder leaks to more serious issues like prolapse. Men too can suffer from weakened pelvic floor muscles.
Aesthetic Beauty Inverurie offers a new treatment which uses High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic technology to strengthen the pelvic floor treating incontinence, improving urogenital organ support, sexual function, sensation and satisfaction.
Just six 28-minute sessions is all it takes to regain control, restore confidence and improve your quality of life.
Aesthetic Beauty Inverurie is located in a quiet residential street for additional discretion.
Garioch Road, Inverurie, AB51 4RQ Tel: 07885 760084 | aestheticbeautyinverurie | aesthetic_beauty_inverurie
Special offers for meetings to remember
Our modern, centrally-located hotel with easy affordable parking is perfect for your next meeting from 2 to 200 guests.
Meeting Room Offer
(up to 20 delegates)
First serving of tea, coffee and snacks for FREE and then just £6pp for the whole day
1 Justice Mill Lane, Aberdeen AB11 6EQ
£40.00 Day Delegate rate (over 20 delegates) Choose one for FREE: Breakfast Rolls, Hot Chocolate Flasks or a Healthy option
Available till March 2025, for new business & subject to availability, quote TREAUWI2425
To book or find out more contact susan.casey@parkinn.com
Banchory Business Centre: Making meetings magnificent
Banchory Business Centre’s outstanding facilities coupled with personal attention makes meetings magnificent.
Choose from our two ground floor meeting rooms suitable for up to twelve people or our recently refurbished first floor conference suite that can seat up to thirty delegates theatre style. This room is fully accessible by lift.
All the meeting spaces can be hired by the hour, half day or full day at exceptionally competitive rates. There’s free parking, easy access from the north or south of the city via the AWPR, bus stops nearby and a beautiful network of paths through our grassed and woodland setting.
Our dedicated team provide tea and coffee and some superb local businesses can provide a range of breakfast, lunch and snack options. You’ll be spoilt for choice!
When growing your business, it can be easy to neglect your own finances. Creating a plan for both can give you more confidence your hard work will be worth it.
Here are five financial planning tips for entrepreneurs.
1. Make the most of pensions
Relying solely on your business to provide for retirement is risky. As a business owner, you can make tax-efficient savings into your own pension, and employer contributions deductible against corporation tax.
Your accountant can help make the most of all the personal and business tax reliefs.
2. Protect against risks
Insure your business premises and stock, and your most valuable asset – yourself. Protection against death and illness could be crucial. Also consider key person protection and shareholder protection. Finally, ensure your will states who will receive your shares or business interest when you die.
3. Plan your exit strategy
Planning your exit early could reap rewards. A financial adviser can help work out your ‘magic number’ (how much you need from a sale to achieve your desired lifestyle), how much your future lifestyle might cost, and whether your finances are sufficient.
If you’re hoping to leave your business to your
Financial planning tips for entrepreneurs
family, you might qualify for business relief. This could mean there’s no inheritance tax to pay on your company shares when you die.
4. Diversify
While growing your business should be priority, consider investing across other asset classes, such as equities, bonds, and cash. This could help cushion the impact if your company underperforms.
5. Get expert help
We can introduce you to the right people – from venture capital firms and lawyers to tax advisers or accountants.
We work regularly with business owners, supporting them in making the right decisions. With us at your side, you can look forward to the future with confidence. Speak to one of our experts today on 01224 267900.
The value of investments and any income from them can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy.
Carrie Keenan, Investment Manager and Ricki Garden, Financial Planner
so navigate the property jungle with aspc as your guide
Charity focus
CEO Fiona Fernie shares the many ways the charity supports those with cancer and their families across the north-east…
Clan was established in 1983 by a group of patients, health professionals and family members who were determined to improve cancer support services across Aberdeen and the north-east of Scotland. Our main goal is to continue to provide free first-class cancer support services and ensure these services are accessible across our communities. It costs £2.6m per year to sustain Clan. All of our services are selffunded.
Clan is the largest commercially independent cancer support charity in the north of Scotland and supports more than 1,800 clients every year. We help people of all ages and with
all types of cancer navigate a diagnosis by giving them the tools to build resilience and improve their emotional and physical wellbeing. We provide emotional and physical support including NHS aligned complementary therapies and specialist exercise sessions. Other services include listening support, age-appropriate support for young clients and their families from Clan’s dedicated children and family team and affordable selfcontained accommodation just minutes from Aberdeen Royal Infirmary with the charity's complementary transport service.
Fundraising is vital to continuing our support programmes and
building upon these. We’re looking forward to summer 2025 when we will bring The BookBench Trail to the north-east, Moray, Orkney and Shetland, giving the public access to a free and immersive art exhibition before the painted sculptures will be auctioned to raise money for Clan.
There are loads of different ways to support Clan throughout the year. You could visit our new coffee shop, become a volunteer, fundraise for us or nominate us as your Charity of the Year at work. You can find out more about our services and how you can get involved at clancancersupport.org/ or by emailing enquiries@clancancersupport.org
GORGEOUSLY GIFTED
Doing your Christmas shopping locally makes finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list so much easier and more personal. Here’s our seasonal guide to help you get started. Just think of us as Santa’s Little Helpers…
Festive feasting
Luxury food always makes for a popular gift, even if we end up gorging on chocolate and cheese so we can eat more healthily in January.
For a concentrated burst of food shopping to stock up your own fridge, head towards Chattan Place and Rosemount. Chattan Quality Meats are a great choice for succulent turkeys and premium handpicked traditional cuts of beef and pork. A few doors along, you’ll find JK Fine Foods, who stock everything from artisan breads butchery, beer and wine and lots of cooking ingredients. The Gourmet Cheese Shop on Rosemount Place is another seasonal essential. Either would be a good starting point for gift baskets or hamper gifts.
For something sweeter, try Coco Caramel who make small batch artisan chocolate caramels infused with flavours of Aberdeenshire and Scotland. Their Wee
Dram or Taste of Doric selections make great gifts that are easy to post. Fortunately for our waistbands, you can only order online at cococaramel.co.uk because we couldn’t be trusted if they had a shop.
No Christmas feast is complete without a tipple so pick up a bottle or two from SugarBird Wines on Union Grove, who specialise in South African wines. If you’re shopping in town, Sugarbird on the Terrace makes a great spot for lunch and a restorative glass of white, or you could gift tickets for one of their tasting events. If you’d rather kick back on Christmas Eve with a G&T sure in the knowledge that all the gifts are wrapped and Santa’s on his way, then one of the gins or a warming rum from The House of Elrick should hit the spot. The Aberdeen Whisky Shop on Union Street is great choice for whiskies from around the globe, spirits and tasting experience vouchers.
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
Chocolate gifting and treats for all the family this festive season
Spoil someone special at the Udny Arms Hotel
Treat them to an exquisite meal or an overnight stay at the historic 19th Century Udny Arms Hotel.
Our family-owned hotel has been fully refurbished to a high standard, and offers a modern and cosy stay along with a Scottish culinary experience in a picturesque costal setting. Serving lunch, dinner and afternoon tea
50 Main Street, Newburgh, AB41 6BL 01358 789989 | info@udnyarmshotel.com Udnyarmshotel.com
Eat, Drink & Be Merry
If you have friends who don’t really need or want anything, then a sharing meal out in December or January can be the best option. Try The Albyn’s brunch menu to get your festivities underway, munch your way through the tapas menu at The Esslemont, try traditional with a modern twist at No.10, opt for pub favourites at McGinty’s Meat and Ale or plump for a sharing platter at Under The Hammer. Milton on the Corner is always a great choice for a catch up. If you’d prefer to make more of a day of it, then the Udny Arms at Newburgh is perfect after a walk through the nature reserve at Sands of Forvie to build up your appetite. If you want to really push the boat out book dinner at the new Trump Restaurant and Cellar in MacLeod House at Trump International.
A LITTLE ROMANCE
Sometimes we overlook our significant others when it comes to gifting, so a night away or a weekend break for just the two of you, or as a gift for close relatives can be thoughtful, stress-relieving and reinvigorating. You don’t need to head that far to feel like you’re in a world of your own.
Meldrum House Country Hotel and Golf Course is a great choice for a golfing getaway, Maryculter House offers an appealing mix of historic setting and modern décor. The Tor-Na-Coille is perfect for a weekend spent exploring Royal Deeside and you can’t beat the Marcliffe Hotel and Spa for fabulous food and the best beds in Scotland. Room service – that’s all we’re saying!
Staying in town, then you could opt for a spa break at The Sandman or eat and shop to your heart’s content during the day, heat to the theatre or cinema and then cosy up in comfort at the Park Inn on Langstane Place or indulge yourselves with a child-free long lie and a leisurely brunch at Malmaison Aberdeen.
For something really special, book a stay at Fingal, the floating hotel in Edinburgh that has brought a very luxurious new life to a lighthouse ship. It’s recognised as one of the best places to stay in Scotland and would be a perfect gift for parents or to spoil someone you love.
Look your best from the inside out at NY this Christmas
We offer a wide range of aesthetic treatments & use the best of equipment to bring you the best results -
Sculptra and Sunekos
Hydrafacial/Skin peels
Laser hair removal
Hyperbaric Oxygen
IV nutritional therapy
Morpheus 8 & Lumecca
Join us Thursdays 21st November 5-7pm for our annual Christmas Night! Goodie bags, fizz & demonstrations of our most popular treatments
Quote TREND for 10% off all treatments until December 2024
92 Fonthill Road, Aberdeen AB11 6UL
01224 593777
@nyskinclinic
Glow Up Gifts
Glow up gifts make people feel better about themselves and bring a real boost in self-confidence at any age. That said, these are the types of gifts that must stem from the recipients’ own wishes and need careful discussion beforehand!
How about a brighter smile with tooth whitening, Smile Design or implants from Andrew Scott Dental Care, or orthodontic realignment from The Orthodontic Clinic? It’s the kind of gift that lasts a lifetime. Alternatively, you could treat someone to a new pair of glasses from Jenson and Ledingham Opticians who have some of the most flattering frames in town.
Teenagers may appreciate a makeup lesson with Julia Stronach, as may those with more mature skin. If someone on your list wants to look younger, there are a host of specialist skin treatments on offer at The Skin Bothy and NY Skin. The Terrace is great for natural looking enhancements, while Martina at Aesthetic Beauty Inverurie can work wonders with DermaPen Treatments for both men and women. London’s Mayfair Clinic has one of the largest treatment menus in town, ranging from facials and skin treatments to help with weight loss. The Treat Company in Inverallochy has an amazing top to toe treatment menu including IPL hair removal and laser treatments. Alpha Clinic offer a full menu of surgical and non-surgical enhancements.
The Sun Spot on Broomhill Road is perfect if you want to have a healthy glow for your festive nights out and Salon 70 do great up dos for big night outs. Bloom on Rose Street is a superb choice for a hair makeover, particularly if you want to rethink your colour.
Gift vouchers may be the way to go with glow up gifts, because it’s often best to have a consultation to endure the most appropriate treatment is given.
The Gift of Health and Wellbeing
For a gift that continues to make life better after the wrapping paper has been recycled, how about spending some time together getting a little fitter? Try Friskis&Svettis for a fun musical workout for all levels, or invest in memberships at Sport Aberdeen. Kippie is also a great choice for a family gift, which has lots of activities for kids and adults alike. There’s bound to be activities that appeal. Phyte Club’s sports recovery CBD range or CBD oils might be a useful addition, too.
If that all sounds a little too energetic, try floatation sessions or alternative therapies at The Urban Wellness Hub. They also have Earth Store which stocks divination decks, crystals and journals.
You could also gift freedom of movement and freedom from pain. It’s often the kind of thing that parents and elderly relatives would benefit from even if they are reluctant to spend money on themselves. Opulent Health offers assessment and injections for musculoskeletal conditions like arthritic knees and frozen shoulders. Westhill’s Step & Stone Health offers podiatry, physio and massage. For a really relaxing gift, try AB Wellness and Reflexology at Chapelton, where Clinical Reflexologist Shona Tough will put a spring back in their step.
It’s all about the kids
Once upon a time, children would leaf hopefully through the Argos catalogue toy section, choosing something from almost every page and writing a list to Santa, before being gently persuaded that Santa didn’t have quite that much room on the sleigh. It’s a little different today, with pleas that they’ll die of embarrassment if Santa doesn’t deliver the latest iPhone or a gaming PC. Half of them probably shoot unboxing videos of their gifts on Christmas morning.
For babies and toddlers, Daisy Tree Baby Boutique in Alford has some lovely wooden toys, ride-ons and rockers as well as cute outfits. Board games and books make good choice for the 5-10 age group when their imaginations are developing and their cutthroat instincts result in quite a lot of cheating. Waterstones, WH Smith and Yeardon’s in Banchory have great kids’ books selections. Hobbycraft is good for craft activity and STEM based kits and models. Smyth’s at the Beach Retail Park has an enormous selection of branded toys and games, Toyland in the Trinity Centre is brilliant for LEGO and in Wills Toy Shop in Cults is a good one-stop option for everything from Squishmallows to Warhammer 40K.
The Gift of Experience
Activities and experiences make great gifts, especially for families or groups of friends. How about tickets to a show or gig at HMT or the Music Hall or stand up at the Blue Lamp? Golfers would be thrilled with a trip to the driving range at Inchmarlo Golf Centre, a round at Trump International or a session or two on NeoGym’s golf stimulator.
Lochter Activity Centre has a great range of activity packages including karting, sumo wrestling and blindfold 4x4 driving, not to mention superb summer BBQs. Deeside Activity Centre is the place to give fly fishing or off-road driving a go. If you’re looking for an action-packed gift for a larger group, Battlegrounds’ paintballing sessions offer a fantastic opportunity to shoot your relatives! For something less brutal, how about the chance to learn something new with Italian Lessons with Enrica Cianci or life drawing classes from In The Flesh?
Older kids are increasingly brand conscious, in their eye wateringly expensive North Face jackets, Canada Goose and Balenciaga trainers. Must-have brands change with alarming frequency, so check what’s on their wish list. Vouchers for their favourite store or cold hard cash are always acceptable, though the little angels would probably accept a bank transfer or bitcoin these days.
Pampered pets
Unlike children, pets tend to have reasonable expectations when it comes to Christmas presents. Anything they can eat, play with or have a practical use for works well. Country Ways has everything for horses and ponies. Perhaps a new turnout rug or some Horse Bix treats? They also have a full range of dog gifts too. Just across the road, Decidedly Dogs, is another good choice for canine Christmas gifts. If your pet would prefer to choose his own present, try the Long Dog Café and Boutique on Claremont Street. They have personalised doggy gifts and some great drying coats. The Pet Arc in Cults has lots of gift option for cats, dogs and small furries.
Milton of Crathes
The perfect destination for Christmas shopping
Gift ideas, jewellery & clothing preloved designer wear
astrophotography
local produce
outdoor & fishing equipment
art gallery & restaurant
Deeside Railway
Free parking
On the A93 opposite the entrance to Crathes Castle
The cosiest hats, scarves and gloves
Makeup bags and toiletries gifts Jewellery and accessories from Tipperary Crystal, Park Lane and Katie Loxton
Beautiful bags from Elie Beaumont
Scented candles, stocking fillers for the kids, baby gifts and for men too!
Brilliant Christmas cards, including special cards for relations
Gift shops are helpful timesavers when it comes to finding the perfect small gift for everyone on your list. Gifted has some wonderful bags for makeup and toiletries and gift sets from Sarah Miller, bags from Katie Loxton and scented candles. No. 18 Cards & Gifts on Chapel Street have appealing pompom hats, gloves, some covetable furry jackets and great cards, while Sonya Angus in Cults has outstanding festive displays, gorgeous faux fur accessories and tons of covetable home decorations.
Michies on Union Street have a large and well stocked gift department that includes some cute Steiff soft toys. If handmade scented candles and wax melts are on your shopping list, both Heartfelt Aromas on Rosemount Place and Sofasoy Candles in Stonehaven are worth visiting. Make a day out of it with a trip to Milton of Crathes, where you’ll find a selection of shops offering everything from Whisky Barrel furniture to fly fishing supplies. Check to see if the Deeside Railway is offering Santa Specials on their steam train for a festive experience to remember.
The Owl at No.2 has a delightfully quirky selection of gifts you won’t find elsewhere, while Joli Gifts have Scandi-style lanterns to set the scene, toiletries and affordable jewellery that makes a great stocking filler. Fans of local history and heritage would treasure a copy of Haddo Reimagined, a warm exploration of the country estate’s hidden history told in stories and photography, available from local book stores and online.
House & Garden
Gifts for the house or garden can be a good option for couples to gift each other. Perhaps a luxurious new bathroom from The Home Expert or a redesigned garden from Kirsty McLean at Garden Design Scotland?
It should be something you can choose together and will both enjoy. Milton Art Gallery have some surprisingly affordable original artworks and charming gifts made by local artists. Ballater Gallery and Gallery Heinzel should also be on your list if you’re looking for creative gifts. If you prefer a DIY approach to art, Iain Glennie Framing can take old photos, treasured memories or your kids’ artwork and turn it into something for grandparents to treasure.
Mains of Drum have a great selection of gifts for keen cooks and lots of ideas for stocking fillers. Houseplants can be a popular gift so try Rooted on Rosemount Place for succulents, or you could look forward to spring with a gift of seeds, a tree or gardening kit from Ben Reid.
If you’re throwing a party Thoughts & Crosses have a great selection of neon signs, sequin walls and party props for hire. Treehouse at Midmar have some amazing decorations and cuddly throws to create a little festive magic. For festive finishing touches, Flower Vogue offer delightful door wreaths and seasonal arrangements and deliver locally. As well as traditional fireplaces Burning Embers on Great Western Road have some quirky home gifts and accessories that are always worth a look.
Bespoke picture framing including 3D collections and textiles
High quality scanning and digital prints from your own artwork, photos, slides or negatives for a gift they’ll really treasure
Unwrap beautiful memories this Christmas For more information contact
Fashion and Jewellery
When it comes to buying clothes and jewellery, it’s best to go shopping with your gift recipient unless you’re very sure of their taste. Finnies on George Street have the best selection of watches in town, upscale jewellery brands like Chopard and Gucci and a great gift department. Lava in Peterculter offer exceptional bespoke pieces and cabinets full of sparkly treasures, not to mention designing custom engagement and wedding rings if Christmas brings a proposal. Sandy Menzies is a superb choice if you’re looking to have a special piece designed to order, while Megan Falconer at the Deemouth Artist Studios is renowned for her silver jewellery.
Why not treat someone to a new outfit for Christmas? Lolo & Co are great for classic pieces with a twist that will become firm favourites. Country Ways stock fashionable country clothing for both men and women, including being exclusive area stockists for Holland Cooper, while Hamishmunro are great for winter boots and cosy jumpers. Tiger Lily offer stylish affordable pieces, Bellino have classics and colourful pieces from brands like Brax and Marble. If you fancy a trip out of town – and who doesn’t love a shopping expedition? – Bentley’s of Banchory have outstanding occasion wear and some great layering pieces while The Platform in Macduff have a comprehensive selection of clothes and gifts for all the family, and some excellent cakes too.
Left it to the last minute?
And if you’re running out of time, many of the businesses we’ve featured also offer gift vouchers, some available electronically. You can also buy vouchers for Trend’s 2025 events allowing you to spend quality time with the recipient and providing something to look forward to in the year ahead. Happy shopping!
We stock the following brands: Allison, Bariloche, Brax, B* Three, Kris Knitwear, Marble, Mos Mosh, Pomodoro, Tinta, Wolford
Open Mon - Sat, 10am-5pm 22a Thistle Street Aberdeen AB10 1XD
Gardens without borders
Garden designer Kirsty McLean shares how to update your garden…
Garden and planting design has evolved significantly over the past 25 years, moving from traditional rectangular lawns surrounded by borders to a variety of creative options. Aligning your garden design and planting style with your lifestyle, functional requirements and your values gives you the best chance of creating a garden you love, want to spend time in and take care of.
Considerations
Assess your space: Consider the size, shape and conditions of your garden (sun, shade etc), including soil type.
Identify your goals: Determine what you want from your garden – relaxation, wildlife support, food production etc.
Consider maintenance: Choose a style that matches the amount of time and effort you’re willing to invest.
Aesthetics: Think about the style of garden that appeals to you and collect ideas.
Plan for functionality: Consider how you will use the garden – entertaining, gardening, play etc.
Ecological impact: Research native and drought resilient plants that support wildlife and are environmentally friendly.
Options for garden styles include:
Naturalistic, wildlife gardens. More gardeners are transitioning to plantings that mimic natural ecosystems using plants that create biodiversity, support local wildlife, focus on native plants and natural habitats. By incorporating drought-resistant planting
you can also create a lower-maintenance garden that promotes resilience in a changing climate.
Prairie Style Planting If you have a bit of space, this is a style of planting that uses a mixture of grasses and flowering perennials to create a naturalistic look, inspired by grasslands of the American Midwest. Plants are typically planted in drifts or groups, which together, is ecologically beneficial. However, this isn’t necessarily a low maintenance option and requires much the same maintenance as a traditional herbaceous border.
Permaculture practices promote sustainable living by working with nature instead of against it, where eco-friendly gardening practices are employed as a priority. Reducing areas of lawn, utilising native plants to support wildlife, creating wildlife habitats. Using collected rainwater, drip irrigation or soaker hoses to reduce evaporation instead of mains water supply. Making compost from your garden waste to enrich your soil, reduce landfill waste and mulch borders. Use peat-free soil/compost and organic pest control, and research companion planting.
Gardening for Wellness. The focus is on relaxation and mental health by connecting with nature, creating spaces to connect with others and for solitary contemplation by zoning through soft/ green division and informal, flowing design with dense, layered and vertical planting to create a sense of quiet and calm.
Outdoor Living Spaces for seamless inside/outside living by extending your living area into the outdoors, making the focus on social gatherings and family activities.
Ornamental Edible Gardens
where growing food is the focus grown in aesthetically pleasing surroundings. Nasturtiums, herbs, fruiting shrubs and trees that flower, have berries and encourage pollinators. All of this can be achieved through creating an ornamental kitchen garden or potager, decorative vegetable garden, raised vegetable beds, or an orchard.
Cottage Garden. Traditionally, planted with a dense mix of flowers, herbs and vegetables growing abundantly together, creating a joyous and informal atmosphere. Because the style is so informal, borders don’t need to be meticulously maintained. Choosing plants that require less water, and mulching borders make it more sustainable.
Horti-futurism has been trending throughout 2024, exploring futuristic gardening techniques to enhance garden health and production, challenging the traditional components of a garden - lawn, patios, borders - and looks to address the most urgent issues of our time, the effects of environmental and climatic conditions and the biodiversity crisis.
Whatever you choose – love your garden!
Acumen Family Wealth at Aberdeen Art Gallery
Financial planning firm, Acumen Financial Planning, launched a bespoke inter-generational wealth management service ‘Family Wealth’ at a private event held at the Aberdeen Art Gallery.
Designed by directors Rhian Morgan and Kevin Mackenzie, Family Wealth service includes collaboration with legal and accountancy experts to provide clients with a fully comprehensive service, across multiple generations.
For more details on Family Wealth, please visit
www.acumenfw.com
Trend held their A/W24 Style and Sounds Fashion Lunch at Malmaison. Over 100 ladies attended the event, where they enjoyed a 3 course lunch with a glass of fizz on arrival. They were entertained by the acoustic and saxophone sounds from Gareth Thomson of More Than Sax and watched the Premiere Productions models show off the current A/W fashions from local retailers Country Ways, Bellino, Hamishmunro, Lolo + Co and Tiger Lily Boutique. A great afternoon was had by all!
Style and Sounds
Louise Mckenzie, Morag Kidd, Frances Watson, Susan Law and Sheona Minchen
Mags Robertson And Lucy Morrow
Becky Thomson, Teresa Reid, Levi Brown, Amanda Smith, Rhian Crockart and Heather Cassie
Taylor Hill, Donna Dale, Margaret Brown, Karen Stewart, Suzanne Shepherd and Jenny Shepherd
Chelsea Tureine, Stephanie Yule, Summer Sutherland, Rebecca Bennet, Chelsea Leslie and Katie Clark
Tamara Taylor and Zoe Bavidge
Sharron Duthie, Roslyn Summers, Aildh Summers and Rachel Duthie
Gareth Thomson of More Than Sax
A model from Premiere Productions
A model from Premiere Productions
A new chapter for Clare
Clare Findlay
SOCIETY FOCUS Birthday celebrations for The Terrace
Awarm yet reluctant farewell to Clare Findlay, our Sales & Marketing Manager, who has been with Trend for 14 years. Clare is retiring – extremely early, she’s keen for us to point out - and plans to spend more time with her family, doing more sport, seeing more of the world and generally being a lady of leisure.
We’ll really miss her enthusiasm, positivity and her ability to chat to anyone about anything.
Friends and clients gathered at Sugarbird on the Terrace to celebrate the first birthday of Dr. Siobhan Hewson’s The Terrace Aesthetics on September 8 th . The event included drinks, nibbles, giveaways and a rather splendid cake. Find out more at theterraceaesthetics.co.uk
with all the trimmings! Turkey
If the thought of leftover sandwiches and sprout curry leaves you cold, then why not head off to Turkey for a few days? As a largely Muslim country, it’s pretty much a festive-free zone and with temperatures of up to 200C on the coast, it’s a lot warmer than here…
Obviously, you could simply head to a five star all-inclusive resort in Marmaris or Antalya and spend a week sipping cocktails in a heated pool, but Turkey - or Türkiye as the rebrand has it – has so much more to explore. Start in Istanbul where the Ottoman Topaki Palace and the Hagia Sophia mosque will top your to do list alongside some of the city’s museums.
Make time for a trip on the ferry, visit a traditional hamman Turkish bath for a steam and rub down, explore Kadiköy’s café and bar scene, pick up a painting or two from the galleries in the Beyoğlu district or work on your haggling techniques in Arasta Bazaar near Sultanahmed Square. If high end shopping’s more your Hermes Birkin, head for Istinye Park or the Zorlu Centre, where you’ll find every brand from Gucci to Vuitton.
Explore more widely with a trip to see Cappadocia’s alien landscape of cave dwellings, underground cities like and Derinkuyu and eroded fairy chimneys would make the perfect setting for an episode of Doctor Who.
Foodies should head for south eastern Anatolia, where the city of Gaziantep combines some outstanding Roman museums, a castle or two, a zoo and some of the country’s best cuisine. You can’t go far wrong in a city whose unofficial moto seems to be, ‘If the world was a home, Gaziantep would be the kitchen.’ Sign up for a food tour, or just max out on meze.
Now doesn’t that sound like a better way of spending your winter break than unwrapping socks and watching endless repeats?
BLINDING LIGHT SOUND & VISUAL IS SCOTLAND'S LEADING LIGHT, SOUND AND VISUAL INSTALLATION AND SALES/SERVICE PROVIDER. ESTABLISHED IN 1995, WE'RE AN AWARD-WINNING TEAM WORKING DIRECTLY WITH THE LICENCED TRADE, RETAIL AND LEISURE INDUSTRY AS WELL AS THE END USER.
FROM BESPOKE PIXEL-MAPPED LIGHTING INSTALLATIONS, LARGE SCALED VIDEO WALLS FOR RETAIL, AND RIGHT THROUGH TO DJ EQUIPMENT SUPPLY, OR RECOMMENDING AND SUPPLYING THE CORRECT AUDIO CABLE OR LAMP...
WE'RE HERE TO HELP
Malmaison
FRI 14TH MARCH Garden
Marcliffe Hotel and Spa
FRI 18TH APRIL Style & Sounds
Malmaison FRI 12TH SEPT
Marcliffe Hotel and Spa
SUN 9TH NOV
Bubbles & baubles
Marcliffe Hotel and Spa
FRI 28TH NOV
Christmas Gift Vouchers available
With almost 20 years of entertaining experience and the ability to cover all genres of music, Paul can provide the ideal soundtrack to your event.
Ranging from intimate drinks receptions, to larger parties, Paul is available for the following...
• WEDDINGS
• BIRTHDAYS
• HEN PARTIES
• BARS
• RESTAURANTS
• LADIES DAYS
Catering for both corporate and private groups
• CHARITY EVENTS
• CORPORATE EVENTS
Email: paulcblack1984@aol.com paulblackmusicaberdeen @paulblackmusic1
MEET MEGAN STEELE, EVENTS MANAGER AT LOCHTER ACTIVITY CENTRE…
I come from a very outdoorsy family. I grew up in a small village with my mum, dad and older brother. As kids, my brother and I always enjoyed riding our bikes, hiking and kayaking, so working at Lochter Activity Centre is an ideal match for me.
I started working here in the summer months of 2013 during my school holidays. I lent a hand at corporate family fun days and evening functions. Then I worked weekends in the Lochter coffee shop. Once I finished school, I became part of the full time team here, becoming the coffee shop and restaurant supervisor in 2018. The coffee shop and restaurant is really popular and we do a great breakfast as well as lunches, fly cups and a delicious carvery on Sundays. We also cater for our group bookings and private events. We can do a BBQ for up to 1500 guests, but we bring the same
attention to quality and service even if you’re just popping in for a coffee.
After a few years, I became part of the events team and then took over as the events manager. My role has always been very customer based but the focus now is more on the business aspect. This involves marketing, connecting with potential clients and lots of organising and planning for future events. As you can imagine, my work days are pretty varied depending on the time of year. During the warmer months we tend to cater for larger corporate family fun days where we look after clients and their families together, other times we might just have smaller hen and stag party groups coming for a fun day out or corporate teams who want to combine a conference with activities. We also have weddings here, so there’s always something fun and exciting
Cala homes’ Westhill community comes to life
Cala Homes’ new community in Westhill is starting to come to life as several of its streets are now open and welcoming residents.
Burnland Meadows is a collection of four and five bedroom detached homes comprising some of the housebuilder’s most popular housetypes, such as the spectacular five-bedroom Macrae and charming four-bedroom Colville.
The completed streets combined with the development’s Macrae showhome and open green space at the Elsie Duguid Gardens, give housebuyers
the opportunity to picture life in the blossoming Aberdeenshire community.
And Cala Homes isn’t just building new homes in the town, it is also committed to supporting the local community.
The housebuilder’s Community Pledge initiative, sees it create a bespoke plan of community support for the local area of each development, which
Burnland Meadows, Westhill, AB32 6BY
Prices from £375,000
can include donations, volunteering, school programmes and more.
Visitors to the showhome will find products from local businesses and brands such as Singularity, Seal Ceramics, West End Chocolates, Daisy Chain and Pretty Little Ladybird Crafts, to name a few, as part of Cala’s Showhome of Support initiative to help support and showcase local business.
The MacRae showhome at Burnland Meadows
Cala Homes showhome of support
The MacRae showhome at Burnland Meadows
In recent months, the team at Cala Homes has been working closely with Westhill Primary School to show pupils how Burnland Meadows has been created from the planning stages to homebuyers being welcomed into their new homes.
P7 pupils enjoyed an interactive Land to Life session with Eleanor Jack, Land Assistant at Cala Homes (North), which covered some of the history of their community, fun facts about the Westhill area and an in depth look at how Cala Homes discovers locations to build new neighbourhoods of family homes.
As the community at Burnland Meadows grows further, Cala will be implementing more initiatives under its Community Pledge.
Prices at Burnland Meadows start from £375,000.
The MacRae showhome at Burnland Meadows
The MacRae showhome at Burnland Meadows Elsie Duguid Gardens at Burnland Meadows
A typical street scene at Burnland Meadows
ICE CUBE