Trend Magazine Feb/Mar 2014

Haute and Cold...

Fashion plays it cool

Houston, we don’t have a problem...

We visit the other oil capital

Highland Fling...

Trend hits the road

Win A handbag from Florian London A stay at Eagle Brae and Mar Hall A trip to Edinburgh’s Guerlain Spa And a year’s supply of tea from BistroTea

Let there be light...

Bright lighting ideas for dull days

And all the latest...

Places to eat, play, shop and stay

Is it too early to be thinking about spring and looking forward to warmer days?

Our fashion team have been in two minds, pulling together a great selection of cosy coverups to get you through the next few months and some great sandals, which seem to be hitting the streets earlier than usual this year.

For the Trend Events team, spring brings a packed diary starting with our fashion lunch in aid of Trend’s Charity of the Year, Charlie House, on March 14th at Malmaison. We’re going racing in May with our special Ladies Day event and June brings the 2014 Life with Style Awards, which are always hugely popular. Our April Garden Party sold out in January, so book your tickets well in advance for everything else! Then there’s the Trend Weddings Exhibition… in fact, we’ve just launched an improved events section on www.trendmagazine.co.uk to let you know what’s going on.

LOUISE CARNEGIE, PHOTOGRAPHER Louise Carnegie is a twenty two year old photographer from Aberdeen. She first realised she had a passion for photography after completing an art course at Aberdeen College and went on to do the HND in photography in 2011. Her work mainly revolves around fashion and portraiture, working closely with some of Scotland's top agencies. She splits her time between Aberdeen and Glasgow, mainly working on fashion editorials or with agencies. Her work has been featured in numerous international magazines in both print and online, spanning from Australia to Canada. She works closely with many up and coming designers and fellow creatives from the Aberdeen area which she thoroughly enjoys as there is so much hidden creativity up here that deserves to be seen. www.louisecarnegie.co.uk

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Other contributors in this issue...

Newsline Scotland, Alison Daniels, Peter Mitchell, Courtney O’Grady, Stephen Davy-Osbourne, Jan Leatham, Brittanny Leah Smith, Rae Mathieson and Jill Walker.

Stylist: Nikki Sheran Hair: Louise Chrystal PUBLISHED BY Trend Productions Ltd 192 Holburn Street, Aberdeen AB10 6DA Tel: +44 (0) 1224 596223 info@trendmagazine.co.uk www.trendmagazine.co.uk

DIRECTOR Gill Buyers gill@trendmagazine.co.uk

EVENTS Lynn Batham lynn@trendmagazine.co.uk

EDITOR Alison Daniels alison@trendmagazine.co.uk

DESIGN Ryan Swinney ryan@trendmagazine.co.uk Lisa Thompson lisa@trendmagazine.co.uk

ADVERTISING & DISTRIBUTION Clare Findlay clare@trendmagazine.co.uk

PRINT Stephens & George Print Group

Back to the magazine. As usual, we’ve been out and about checking out the best of what’s new, whether you fancy a new jumper, somewhere to meet up with friends for a few drinks, or a road trip. There’s even the chance to win great prizes like a visit to the Guerlain Spa in Edinburgh or Eagle Brae in the Highlands.

After all, those new sandals need an outing or two!

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION Jill Walker jwalker@trendmagazine.co.uk

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 responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions by contributors in the magazine may not represent the views of the publisher. Trend magazine takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers in this publication.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY 14 Rae’s guide to renewing your skin 58 Win a pampering package at the Guerlain Spa FASHION 20 Haute and Cold - cosy looks for chilly days 26 Put a spring in your step 53 Win a handbag from Florian London

20 66

FOOD & DRINK 39 Win a year’s worth of TeaPods 44 Eating out…Dinner at Craigendarroch 45 and something fishy at the Creel Inn 50 Meet the woman behind the Harbour Inn in Gardenstown LIFESTYLE 57 Tonight’s the Night …win HMT tickets 74 Enter the Life with Style Awards 78 Community snippets 77 Trend tries confined space training

72 ON THE COVER

Shannon's cover look was created with...

FACE Skin smoothing face prep, Sheer glow foundation, Light reflecting powder, Radiant creamy concealer & Illuminator 'Copacabana' CHEEKS The multiple 'Luxor' & Blush 'Orgasm' LIPS Larger than life gloss 'Piree' EYES Trio palette 'Delphes', Eyeliner pencil 'Kyoto' & 'Black moon' & Larger than life mascara All products NARS www.narscosmetics.co.uk

HOMES, INTERIORS & GARDENS 54 Light and Shade TRAVEL & LEISURE 60 Hit the road, Trend takes the scenic route to Inverness…

64 and pops over to Houston 66 Win a break at magnificent Mar Hall…

68 Or a stay at Eagle Brae ART, MUSIC & CULTURE 70 Meet angelic artist Tracie Swift 71 Celtic rockers Gleadhraich - unpronounceable but uplifting!

72 Scotteque’s Tartan Lassies 76 Courtney takes a tour of the Gordon Highlanders’ Museum SOCIETY 82 Our photographers get invited to all the best affairs…

88 Trendy Locations 89 One for the diary…Trend Events 90 Peter Mitchell meets Tracy Johnstone 5

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One of my favourite brands on the market is British brand REN, whose products are free from parabens, sulphates, fragrance, PEGs and pack a punch on performance.

The ultimate duo to kick-start your skin spring-clean: REN’s pore-perfecting detox duo ‘Glycolactic radiance renewal mask’, a potent bio-active peel mask designed to renew the complexion, reduce the appearance of fine lines and dramatically improve skin tone; and ‘Clarimatte invisible pores detox mask’, a detoxifying clay mask designed to reduce the appearance of pore size and leave the skin purified, smooth and toned.

Trend’s makeup artist Rae Mathieson shares her her favourite products and industry must-haves to get your skin fresh and glowing for Spring…

No matter what your age or skin type, the foundation of any smart skincare routine is diligent cleansing. You’re not only washing off make up, excess grime and oil, but also the environmental pollutions that accelerate signs of ageing. With a clean slate, the active ingredients within the rest of your beauty routine are absorbed better and work more effectively. Introducing my new must-have beauty gadget, the Magitone Pulsar. An innovative skin brushing/cleansing system for the face and body which effectively removes dirt and impurities, helps slough away dead skin cells and boost circulation to reveal smoother, brighter, clearer skin. A fabulous multi-tasking product to prepare the skin for the ultimate New Year detox.

Lay off the alcohol and treat your skin to a cocktail instead!

Time Bomb’s Complexion Cocktail with a shot of B12 jolts skin’s own energy production into high gear. Formulated with centella and ginseng, this potent concentrate improves micro-circulation for better skin tone and enlivened colour. A powerful blend of 12 amino-acids and two types of hyaluronic acid replenishes skin’s surface layers and helps retain moisture for immediate visible plumping.

RUAIRIDH FORBES, 18 SALES ADVISOR

TOP Topshop TROUSERS Topshop TRAINERS Levi’s What key pieces do you love to wear right now?

I love a blazer and bomber jacket to make my outfits stand out.

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KERRY-LEE WEST, 30 SALES SUPERVISOR

DRESS Monsoon NECKLACE & BRACELETS Accessorize WATCH Michael Kors What is your perfect work wear outfit?

I love to wear either a smart dress or skirt and top, matched with necklaces and bracelets. It makes for a smart and fun look.

SAMANTHA CARDNO, 22 SALES ADVISOR

DRESS Loradi from Coast CHELSEA BOOTS Oasis What trend are you most looking forward to for Spring 2014?

Any clothes with pastel colours such as mint, sky blue and sugar pink.

IAN LINDSAY, 37 LAWYER

BLAZER John Lewis TROUSERS Density SCARF Burtons SHOES Ecco What do you tend to dislike in fashion?

I stay away from brand labels.

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FASHION

Cream Ankle-grazers £19.99 Mango Cream Fur Trim Cardi £48 Oasis Amber Tweed T-shirt £98 Jigsaw all available at John Lewis 20

Aran Jumper Ochre £95 Peregrine Country Check Blazer £500 Hackett both available at Gibbs Menswear 21

FASHION

Black Sweater £19.99 Mango Cream Canvas Shirt £89 Damsel in a Dress Cable Slab Scarf £30 Pippa Choc Croc Med Grab Bag £299 Modalu (just seen) all available at John Lewis 22

Denim Look Gant Shirt £75 Italian Nep Cardigan £79 John Lewis both available at John Lewis Tweed Blazer £175 Robert Noble available at Slaters Menswear

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FASHION

Wool Blend Stripe Sweater £89 Jigsaw Jade Jegging Jean £35 White Stuff Navy Belted Coat £160 Collection by John Lewis Navy Faux Fur Tippet £20 Burgundy Wing Bag £49 all available at John Lewis 24

Maroon V-neck Jumper £100 Hackett Weekend Bag £399 Bladen both available at Gibbs Menswear Cable Slub Scarf £30 available at John Lewis Black Chords and Belt Model’s Own Our Thanks: Models: Alexander Duthie and Shannon Earaker of Colours Model Agency Glasgow Photographer: Louise Carnegie Stylist: Nikki Sheran Assistant Stylist: Brittanny Leah Smith Hair: Louise Chrystal Make Up: Rae Mathieson Stockists: Cruise, Gibbs Menswear Inverurie, John Lewis, Next and Slaters Menswear 25

FASHION

Wave goodbye to that old pair of winter boots and say hello to the best of this spring’s shoes. It’s time to shed your sheepskin cocoon, get a pedicure and let your feet breathe by revealing just a little more skin.

BERTIE

QUIZ This season brings something to suit everyone, from lovers of flats to Tom Ford’s sandal-boot hybrids or Prada’s open-toed chunky heels. It’s still a bit early to think about summery sandals, but many of spring’s hottest new shoe designs, show that with the climate gradually changing, we’ll be seeing a lot more of feet in the coming months.

Spring shoes come in an array of flats, wedges and heels so try alternating between them on a daily basis to find your ideal outfit. Show off those feet, don’t hide them away till summer.

Start by revealing just a small amount of the skin, whether it’s just the tops of your feet or peeping toes, this is bound to get your feet ready for the summer.

Try low rising ballet pumps or heels with cut out detailing in a range of colours. Not only will you look elegant and fabulous, but your tootsies will feel all the better for it after spending months snuggled up in your Uggs…

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The Broadstraik is everything a true Scottish Country Pub should be. Mixing old and new, and constantly evolving with a basic philosophy at the heart of it all - to offer excellent wine & beer with great service in a relaxed, family and dog friendly atmosphere including live music in the front lounge throughout the year.

Our pub is located in the heart of the North East of Scotland, west of Aberdeen in the village of Elrick, on the outskirts of Westhill.

Surrounded by a landscape of rolling hills and forests, it lies midway between the beautiful Royal Deeside & Cairngorms region and the stunning coastline of the North East.

We also have two function suites, The Brimmond Room that seats up to 60 guests and The Elrick Room that seats up to 30 guests.

They are both suitable for conferences and parties.

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Our highly experienced team at The House are all creative senior stylists with an average of 12 years in the profession. Both the House staff and freelance stylists are all exceptionally dedicated at ensuring their clients individual needs are met and are aware of up-to-date trends.

(L-R) Stephany Lansdell, John Lindsey, Morna Harris, Siobhan Shand, Michelle Burbridge, Anny Mitchell, Kim McCann & Claire Boyd

The House Spa

34 Great Western Road, Aberdeen AB10 6PY

Tel: 01224 586699

www.thehousespa.co.uk

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I am convinced that nutrition is a key factor to obtaining the body and healthy lifestyle you have always dreamed of.

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Fried and processed foods and fizzy drinks are a no no!!!!

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There’s nothing to beat sitting down and putting your feet up with the perfect cuppa, so we’ve teamed up with BistroTea to bring one lucky reader a year’s supply of their brilliant TeaPods.

German engineering, Italian design and a great range of Sri Lankan organic fair trade teas from some of the country’s premium tea estates combine to make the innovative TeaPod. The best cup of tea you’ll have had in ages which also does away with soggy teabags and having to find a teaspoon!

There are eleven blends to choose from, from Earl Grey to Jasmine Lotus and the beautiful mahogany presentation boxes are perfect for office use. Our winner will receive 365 TeaPods worth £175.

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

Name one blend of BistroTea? Try TeaPods for yourself with an exclusive 15% discount by entering TrendAberdeen in the discount code box on www.bistro-tea.co.uk/purchase-teapods

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www.dressage-peterhead.co.uk Opening 9-5 Mon - Sat (evenings & Sundays by appointment)

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ADVERTORIAL

You may have 99 problems, but finding a great bar and bistro in the heart of Union Street won’t be one of them now that Ninety-Nine Bar and Kitchen has been refurbished, making it the stand-out city centre destination for great food, cocktails or a few glasses of wine or beer in a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere.

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From the moment you walk in, you feel part of the warm, welcoming and eclectic venue. Downstairs is dominated by the traditional wooden panelled bar, high ceilings and upstairs there’s a quirky collection of seating ranging from 50’s lounge chairs to carved rococo and red velvet sofas. Everywhere you look, from the walls covered in cocktail paraphernalia to the superheroes wallpaper in the boys’ toilets, there’s a quirky little touch. It’s like a Gentleman’s Club for the slightly eccentric; the perfect backdrop for an evening out with friends, pre-theatre cocktails or a lively pre-party weekend venue, when the DJ tucked away behind the door shares his impressive collection of old school vinyl.

oatcakes to go with the locally sourced cheese board are made in the kitchen.

The new Ninety-Nine is all about attention to detail.

During the day, it’s a great meeting point for a leisurely lunch or a catch up over some snacks and we were really impressed by the new menu. The team in the kitchen, headed up by the talented and dedicated Nick Coetzer, have pulled together a something that’s a world away from the usual pub grub. Just about everything on the menu is made from scratch in the kitchen - the bread is baked daily, the bacon cured to Nick’s own recipe, the salmon is smoked on the premises and even small touches like handmade

When it comes to drinks, as you’d expect from part owner Ben Iravani’s stable of venues, which includes Trend fave Orchid, there’s an exciting and innovative cocktail menu, which changes seasonally. The bar staff really know their stuff, regularly trekking to London to keep tabs on the coming drinks trends and will even produce a custom cocktail of your choice, though the cocktail menu is packed with new ideas and tastes, so you’re bound to find something tempting from the vast array of colourful bottles behind the bar.

The bistro style menu abounds with creative, great quality, locally sourced seasonal products. Even the old pub favourites, like hotdogs and burgers come with the distinctive Ninety-Nine approach.

Give the Rose Veal Steak and Guinness Hotdog a go, or opt for a handmade burger made from joints butchered in the kitchen. The melt in your mouth Pulled Pork Brioche bun is fast becoming a favourite, or try the Deli platter which features generous portions of some Ninety-Nine Bar favourites.

Our current favourites include the Ron Burgundy and the 99 Champagne Cocktail.

If you prefer your drinks unmixed, then Ninety-Nine’s vast selection won’t disappoint. There aren’t many places in town that offer seven tequilas, around twenty different gins, ten American whiskies and an extensive list of Scottish whisky that includes rarities from some of the local distilleries like Fettercairn near Stonehaven and well regarded, lesser known malts like Aberlour’s A’Bunadh.

The wine list is short but well-chosen and many of the options are available by the glass or bottle. There’s a decent Prosecco and a selection of Perrier-Jouet Champagnes, that underline the bar’s approach to using the best quality of ingredients in both the drinks and their food offerings.

If you fancy some good food in a relaxed, fun and friendly atmosphere, try it out.

1 Back Wynd, just off Union Street at St Nicholas Churchyard Tel: 01224 631640 www.facebook.com/99aberdeen

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After checking in to our luxurious suite, we perused both menus and opted to have dinner in the Keiller Brasserie, although the more ‘formal’ dining option was still extremely well priced.

Despite being one of our favourite weekend retreats it had been several years since we last checked-in to Ballater’s Craigendarroch Hotel, so we were very much looking forward to this visit.

The hotel recently underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment, and re-launched as Craigendarroch Suites, with the main hotel converted into 32 luxurious Vacation Club Suites.

The new-look Craigendarroch now boasts two fantastic dining options in the Keiller Brasserie, and the more informal Keiller Lounge.

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The transformation from the previous clubhouse was remarkable.

The atmosphere was tranquil and inviting, with luxurious furnishings and warm neutral tones throughout, a perfect setting for dinner after braving a Scottish winter’s day.

To start I chose the chef’s Soup of the Night, a warming bowl of Spiced Carrot and Apple Soup served with the renowned Balmoral Bread. Mr P. had Spiced Prawn & Crab Cakes, which were beautifully presented on a citrus mayonnaise and radish salad.

The Brasserie has a wide option of main courses, but we both chose

plates from the Grill. I had a Scottish Sirloin Steak, which was cooked to absolute perfection and came with hand cut chunky chips, plum tomato and seasonal veg. Mr P. chose the seasonal special - a Loin of Venison with chocolate-infused gravy, which was simply delicious. To finish we shared a Belgian Chocolate Cake, served with handmade Passion Fruit Ice Cream and fresh Scottish Raspberries.

The Keiller Brasserie certainly exceeded our expectations. The luxurious décor, attentive service and delicious food made for a perfect dining experience.

Craigendarroch Country Club Braemar Road, Ballater AB35 5XA 01339 755858 www.higvc.co.uk

THE CREEL INN

Upon entering the quaint restaurant we were greeting warmly by a member of staff who showed us to our seat in the comfortably cosy lounge with an open fire crackling behind us.

Living so close to the coast, it’s no surprise that there are several restaurants making the most of the North Sea catch, and the Creel Inn at Catterline is one of the best. It may be just over twenty miles south of the city, but it’s well worth a visit.

The Creel Inn is located in a row of charming fishermen’s cottages perched on a cliff edge overlooking the bay. Work up an appetite and take in the sea breezes with a stroll before or after dinner along the spectacular cliff tops or down to the tiny harbour built in 1842.

I began with a glass of Pinot Grigio and my husband had a pint of one of their many speciality beers while we made our choices.

My Cajun King Prawns were amazing.

A brilliant combination of beautiful colours and the freshest, plumpest prawns, set off by a mango salad drizzled with a zesty chilli and lime dressing. My better half opted for the Chicken Liver Parfait; a generous helping of pate served with salad leaves, a toasted brioche and onion marmalade.

The main courses proved equally rewarding. I ordered the baked chicken breast served with a haggis potato cake, turnip puree and Drambuie cream sauce, just what I needed to warm me up on a cold night.

Steven took the traditional option and had the haddock fillet coated in a real ale batter served with chips, peas and a homemade tartare sauce.

We really didn’t have room left for dessert, but felt it might be rude not to! Both the Crème Brulee and the Coconut Panna Cotta were creamily delicious and a great way to end a lovely meal.

Catterline, Stonehaven, Kincardineshire AB39 2UL 01569 750254 www.thecreelinn.co.uk

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In preparation for new and existing members with resolutions to get fit in 2014, Aberdeen Sports Village refurbished its Energy Zone gym with a £300,000 investment in December last year.

David Beattie, chief executive at ASV said; “The refurbishment will continue to keep the Energy Zone looking fresh, exciting and vibrant.

“Since ASV opened in 2009 we have welcomed over 2.7 million visitors, which is also a testament to our team, fitness consultants and coaches who have been and are on hand to assist and support everyone in reaching their goals, regardless of stage or level.”

2014 also marks an exciting year for ASV as its eagerly awaited £22 million Olympic standard Aquatics Centre is set to open this spring. The Centre, which includes a 10 lane, 50 metre pool and 25 metre pool with full elite diving facilities, will be used by both world class athletes and the local community.

> 50ml Passito Di Notto

dessert wine > 12.5ml grapefruit juice > 25ml Beefeater gin

> 2 slices fresh orange > A dot of sugar > Topped with Prosecco

Even in the winter time there is a call for a long refreshing drink! A top seller from our new menu, I created this drink for a trip to Sicily with Planeta wines in which I was required to make some cocktails using their Passito di Notto desert wine. Enjoy this zingy, well rounded drink over crushed ice with a nice grapefruit zest garnish.

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He continued, “This will be a real milestone year for us as the Aquatics Centre opens its doors. We hope that along with the other facilities on offer, those of all fitness levels are inspired to use the village.”

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We met Moira Paterson, chef at the Harbour Restaurant in Gardenstown, where the food gets rave reviews and so does the view….

What's your earliest memory of food?

Going with my parents, sister and grandmother to a local wood near Gamrie for a day out. I had my own little bucket and we’d spend the best part of a day picking brambles. My parents made bramble jelly, perfuming the house with a fruity smell for days.

How would you describe your cooking style?

Traditional Scottish with a modern twist using the finest local ingredients.

I’ll add an unusual sauce or special ingredient to a classic dish. Our salmon steak might have raspberry coulis and our fillet steak has béarnaise sauce and a blue cheese topping.

What are your specialities, or dishes that people really like?

One of our most successful dishes is a trio of fish starter with creamed yellow fish, honey-roast salmon and classic prawn cocktail.

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Desert Island foods - If you could only eat four things, what would they be?

I’d take Nutella so I can dip the local pineapples and bananas in it; Marie Rose sauce to coat the prawns that I’d catch; I’ll take seed potatoes as I love a baked tattie and of course, porridge.

What are your ambitions in terms of cooking?

I would like to spend some time at some of the top London hotels and find out what’s new in the world of restaurant food.

Where have you travelled to that was exceptional in terms of food? Why? I’d say a cruise ship, because there’s a huge variety of quality food on offer as well as a sense of theatre.

Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere at our friendly restaurant.

A great menu choice with

..we'd spend the best part of the day picking brambles.

INGREDIENTS • 2 heads cauliflower, broken into florets • 2 tablespoons butter • 1 cup diced onion • 1 cup dry white wine

locally sourced produce.

• 1 cup brandy • 3 cups chicken stock • 1 cup double cream • Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD In a large pan, melt butter and gently fry onion till golden, then add the cauliflower florets, olive oil, wine, brandy, and chicken stock. Simmer for 30 minutes, then blend the soup till smooth. Return the soup to a clean saucepan, then heat gently, stirring the cream through.

Meanwhile, take eight large king shrimps and marinade these in 1 teaspoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of curry powder which has been mixed in a bowl. Toss the shrimps and grill for a minute or so.

Melt a tablespoon of butter in a pan and add the diced onion, fry until caramelised.

To serve the soup, arrange the onion in the centre of bowl, add the shrimp on top, ladle the soup into the bowl and finish with a drizzle of cream

BOOKING ESSENTIAL AS SEATING LIMITED Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday Weekdays by prior arrangement for groups of 10 or more.

Harbour Road Gardenstown Scotland Mob: 07890 669453 Tel: (01261) 851663

ADVERTORIAL

ABERDEEN'S NEW HOME OF PROPERTY RENTAL With the market for rental homes continuing to grow rapidly, it’s vital for both landlords and tenants to get the best from their property agents, and that’s where Geraghty-Gibb Property Management really shine.

Marlene Leiper and Graham Gibb have formed a property partnership that draws on decades of experience in the local property market, backed by in-depth knowledge of finance, law, safety and a real understanding of the needs of both tenants and landlords.

We try to make the process as uncomplicated as possible, especially for those who are renting for the first time...

Marlene explained, 'Geraghty-Gibb offers a truly personal service. We can pass on our legal, safety and property knowledge to landlords to ensure that they fully understand and comply with their obligations.'

'I believe that communication is the key to everything. I get a complete buzz from making sure that the landlord is happy throughout his or her whole experience with Geraghty-Gibb. As members of the Council of Letting Agents we follow a strict Code of Practice'.

Graham added 'We offer the landlord a full personal property management service but what makes us different is that we are Aberdeen’s first HMO Specialist offering a complete HMO licensing and management service from sourcing the HMO property

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to obtaining the licence and management of the property'.

Marlene’s approach also means a personal service for those looking to rent a property, whether it’s a four bedroom house or a student flat. 'We try to make the process as uncomplicated as possible, especially for those who are renting for the first time. We have an ongoing involvement with each property, dealing with absolutely everything on behalf of the landlord. We don’t pass the buck on the first sign of problems, and offer a 24 hour emergency service. Whether you’re the landlord or the tenant, we take away the hassles of renting'.

96 Rosemount Viaduct, AB25 4AL 01224 329147/07795076493 E-mail: mleiper@geraghty-gibb.co.uk www.geraghty-gibb.co.uk

COMPETITION

As several stylish celebrities could tell you, Florian London’s chic and classic handbags are made from the highest quality leather using expert craftsmanship, so the quality of the finished bag is the best it can possibly be.

Although Florian are known for their classic, timeless designs, their bags all feature contemporary twists such as the latest colours, practical pockets and enough space for laptops or tablets, so are perfect for work or play.

One lucky Trend reader will win an Eleanor bag - the classic doctor bag made from beautifully soft red calf leather, featuring elegant metal work and a detachable strap for versatility. As with all Florian bags, it is beautifully lined.

The Eleanor bag retails at ÂŁ350 and you can see the full collection online at www.florianlondon.com To enter, go to www.trendmagazine.co.uk and answer this question:

What shape is the Eleanor bag?

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HOMES, GARDENS & INTERIORS

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Each season we update our wardrobes; every year or two, we redecorate or homes, but we rarely change our light fittings. Yet the right lighting can change the entire ambience of a room, drawing disparate elements into a harmonious whole. A new shade might revive a tired dining room, while a chandelier could turn a cold bedroom into an inviting boudoir. Whether it’s a sleek reading lamp or a life-sized horse standard lamp, here are our pick of this year’s best offerings.

Let there be light…

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01. Austin Floor Lamp - Chrome, MADE.COM 02. Bellagio Side Lamp - Sweetpea & Willow 03. Broadway Star Floor Lamp - Black, MADE.COM 04. Crown Major 30 Light Pendant, Naken Interiors 05. Drop Pendant Light, Uniche 06. Electric Light Bulb Letter ‘N’, Alexander & Pearl 07. Copper Shade Table Lamp, Naken Interiors 08. Dino Table White, Gong 09. Harpers Lamp - Zinc, Sweetpea & Willow 10. 60’s Pop 2 Lampshade, Alexander & Pearl 11. Phosphorescent light bulb, MY LITTLE SQUARE 12. Motel Pendant Light, Alexander & Pearl 13. Simple Wall Lamp - Matte Black, Naken Interiors 14. Wooster Pendant Light, The French Bedroom Company 15. Moooi Horse Floor Lamp, The French Bedroom Company 16. Mercury Ceiling Light, Beautiful Modern Thing 17. This Way Arrow Light Bulb Sign, Alexander & Pearl 18. Peggy wall lamp - double spotlight, Gong

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ADVERTISEMENTS

Playbarn Party £8.50 per child Reserved table £7.50 per child Themed party £14 per child inlcudes play, food, party bag, extra party games & prizes & dedicated themed room

OPENING TIMES 7 Days a week Playbarn 9.30am - 5.30pm Coffee Shop 9.30am - 5.00pm

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HOODLES CAN NOW OFFER UP TO 11 PARTY SPACES DAILY

Whatever your requirements let Hoodles experienced party team take care of them, with our extensive range of packages.

Hoodles Homemade Hampers available to order from beginning of March for Mothers Day. Pop in, phone or order online for a box full of treats sure to put a smile on any mum’s face.

HOODLES PLAYBARN & COFFEE SHOP North Mains of Barra, Oldmeldrum T: 01651 873813 E: playbarn@hoodles.co.uk

www.hoodles.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENTS

The 1670s house, set at the foot of Bennachie, offers the perfect combination of south facing lawns, a private island and ancient woodlands, with receptions available in the main house or our new Ballroom.

Here’s your chance to win tickets to HMT’s Tonight's The Night - the Rod Stewart Musical, at HMT from Monday to Saturday, May 19 to 24.

We have two pairs up for grabs for this hit West End musical comedy, which features the gravel-voiced superstar’s many hits.

With exclusive use of the house for three days, a cinema, indoor pool, gym and bedrooms for 32 guests, Logie offers everything you could wish for to make the day really special.

Pitcaple, Inverurie AB51 5EE Tel: 08450 942424 reservations@logiecountryhouse.co.uk

www.logiecountryhouse.co.uk

The combination of writer Ben Elton, spectacular staging, a world-class band and hits like Maggie May, Baby Jane and Hot Legs make for a winning combination of foot stomping and laughs, so you’re guaranteed a great night out.

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

Who wrote the show?

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COMPETITION

With both Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day looming, the Guerlain Spa at The Waldorf Astoria in Edinburgh has three new limited edition packages that are guaranteed to create smiles!

The inspiration for each of the exclusive treatments is ‘La Petite Robe Noire’ Guerlain’s own fragrant tribute to the ‘little black dress.’ The treatments have been created to celebrate the launch of Couture, the latest addition to the exclusive collection.

So we’re particularly thrilled to offer one lucky reader and a friend the chance to experience Edinburgh’s Guerlain Spa at The Caledonian, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel for themselves...

Our winner and their guest will experience the Parisian Package, worth £250, which includes the relaxing and restoring Pure and Radiant Back treatment, the chance to catch up over a sumptuous afternoon tea for two in Peacock Alley and an overnight stay for two including dinner in the Galvin Brasserie de Luxe, bringing the total value of this package to over £500. You’ll also be treated to a 'La Petite Robe Noire' Fragrance Journey, a Relaxing & Luxurious Footbath, a Touch of Colour and have full use of the spa facilities, including the pool, sauna, steam room jaccuzzi, and gym a combination which means you’ll come home looking and feeling fabulous!

This luxury, award winning spa is the only one of its kind in the UK, imbued with Guerlain’s world-renowned ethos of elegance and sophistication and echoes the glamour and prestige of its peerless Champs Elysées counterpart. With uniquely-tailored beauty and skincare experiences that draw on Guerlain’s long history of innovation and excellence a visit to this haven of tranquility, set so close to the bustling city centre, will definitely delight.

Trend readers who want to visit the spa for themselves can also benefit from 20% discount by quoting Trend when booking.

The offer is available until 1st April 2014.

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

What is the name of the new 'La Petite Robe Noir' fragrance that has been launched by Guerlain which is available at Guerlain Spa?

The Guerlain Spa at The Caledonian, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel Princes St, Edinburgh EH1 2AB 0131 222 8836 guerlainspa.caledonian@waldorfastoria.com www. guerlainspaedinburgh.com

ROAD TRIP

Ah, the romance of the Highlands… the skirl of the pipes, the vast landscape, the majestic hills and glens, the malevolent midges, the sheep with no idea about the Highway Code and the worrying problem of finding a petrol station open on a Sunday. We’ve opted for a Highland road trip that misses none of the highlights, but is a bit closer to home!

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This figure-of-eight route is a 250 mile round trip, with a drive of over six hours, according to the RAC. This is a generous estimate with 4 - 5 hours being more likely, but you could split the trip over two days, staying over in Inverness for a more leisurely pace, or just do the lower loop. Setting off bright and early would make it possible to spend some time shopping and sightseeing as well as taking in some spectacular scenery.

Head out of Aberdeen towards Alford on the A944, then turn right onto the A97, through Lumsden. You can either take the B9002 to the left, which winds along the valley floor before turning left and rejoining the A941, or you can keep on the A97 to Rhynie, once a major Pictish settlement. If you fancy some exercise, climb the hill up to Tap o’Noth to see the remains of the

Iron Age hill fort. Back in the car, take the A941 through the scenic Deveron Valley and into Dufftown.

Dufftown nestles by the river Fiddich, known world-wide as the home of Glenfiddich, Dufftown and Mortlach distilleries, but there’s more to do here than enjoy a dram. The Keith-Dufftown Railway is great for a nostalgic trip back to the age of steam, with trains normally running from April to the end of September. Outside the town, Balvenie Castle is steeped in blood and history, while the stark ruins of Auchendoune Castle loom menacingly over the landscape like a set from Game of Thrones, just two miles south of the town. Dufftown Glassworks is a cute little gallery with a coffee shop if you are in need of caffeine and cake, while both A Taste of Speyside and the French-influenced

La Faisanderie restaurants are perfect for something more leisurely and substantial.

Leaving Dufftown, head for Craigellachie and then left onto the A95 through Aberlour – home of Walker’s Shortbread for more than a century. At Speybridge, take the B970 and head towards Nethy Bridge.

Nethy Bridge offers the chance to spot adorable red squirrels dashing around in the Abernethy Forest, where the capercaillie, pine marten and even the increasingly rare Scottish wildcat are also resident.

The village also boasts four bridges designed by Thomas Telford.

The Speyside Centre at Dulnain Bridge makes a great pit-stop, with a garden centre specialising in heathers, wildlife viewing areas and a gift shop. Don’t forget to pick up a clootie dumpling to take home, or try it one of 21 different ways in the restaurant.

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ROAD TRIP

Aviemore promotes itself as the outdoor capital of Scotland and you’ll certainly see more Gore-Tex and hiking boots here than most Scottish towns.

The town has undergone a bit of a renaissance in the past few years and is no longer solely a monument to the poor design achievable by bad architects with a fetish for concrete.

If hillwalking doesn’t appeal, you could visit the sled dogs at the Sled Dog Adventure Centre, the local reindeer herd, do some shopping along the main street or pop in to the Cairngorm Brewery for a tour. The Highland Folk Museum is worth a detour south if rural history and a bygone way of life appeals as is Penny Weir’s Loch-anEilein Pottery, around three miles south of Aviemore.

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From Aviemore, take the A9 to Inverness, passing through the unpronounceable Slochd mountain pass and enjoy a scenic ride up to Inverness.

Inverness’s newly refurbished Victorian Market Hall is lined with unusual little shops, while the Eastgate Centre and the Retail Park house branches of many of the UK’s biggest retail brands. Browse the shelves in Leakey’s Bookshop and Café on Church Street, supposedly the biggest second hand bookshop in Scotland, wander the streets of the old town and the galleries by the riverside. Try the highly rated RocPool Restaurant for a meal to savour.

In the afternoon, head for the gloriously eccentric and interactive Inverness Titanic Maritime Museum at Clachnaharry Road, by the Caledonian Canal. For a donation to the RNLI, you can explore a 1:10 scale model of the Titanic, poke about in a replica Nautile submarine, board a fishing boat and bait the creels, or investigate a lifeboat.

It’s even possible to don a captain’s outfit, but it’s probably best to take some kids along so you look like you’re having fun just for their sake!

Leave Inverness on the A96 and head for Nairn, where you can stroll along the narrow lanes in Nairn’s Fishertown, or head to straight to the beach, where the rolling dunes give way to miles of often deserted sands. If you’re in

or dinner for those with gourmet tastes and a reason to splash out.

need of a snack, try the Basil Harbour Café, or The Classroom on Cawdor Street. Have a peek in some of the gift shops such as Iolair or Paper Bird for unusual souvenirs, or visit Cawdor Castle, where you can potter through the domestic clutter amassed over centuries of history or stroll in the magnificent gardens.

Auldearn makes a great place to break the journey. Head for Auldearn Antiques, which stocks a cornucopia of collectables, from vintage clothing to architectural antiques. The village was the site of a battle in 1645 and there are remnants of this history signposted around the village. Nearby Boath House offers a perfect setting for lunch

Back to the A96 and head through Forres, turning right onto the A940 and straight through three roundabouts before branching off onto the B9007 and following signs for Logie Steading.

Take a while to browse the antique, artwork, books or design shops, or perhaps pick up some goodies from the café, farm shop or garden centre.

Kids will enjoy the heritage centre and one of the river walks available.

The road then winds its way down the Lecht where you can either fork left and take the A944 back towards Aberdeen or keep to the A939 which eventually makes a sharp left turn to take you towards Ballater. At the end of the A939, turn left to Ballater and head home via Royal Deeside.

From Logie, turn right onto the A940 and head back towards Grantown-onSpey on the A939, before continuing on to the pretty village of Tomintoul.

Regular listeners to any radio station will doubtless be familiar with the Cockbridge to Tomintoul road, which traverses the Cairngorms National Park and seems to be almost perpetually closed due to snow unless it’s midsummer.

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TRAVEL

If your first glimpse of Houston is through the window of an aeroplane, you would be forgiven for thinking that you have arrived in a concrete jungle rather than one of America’s most popular cities. But behind the steel girders and billboards lies a city of culture, fine dining and very importantly - shopping.

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Covering an area of over 8,500 square miles, the greatest challenge when exploring Houston is knowing where to begin. If you are a culture vulture, then your first stop should be the Theatre District. Rivalled only by New York City itself, this area of downtown Houston has over 12,000 seats where audiences enjoy a dynamic diary of live performances ranging from opera to ballet to stage drama.

Just around the corner, Houston’s Museum District encompasses 19 different galleries which showcase all facets of art, science and education. There is a beloved zoo along with museums dedicated to children, photography, the weather, the Holocaust, and fine art. Outside the district but certainly worth a visit, Space Centre Houston is the official visitor centre for NASA, where you can walk through replicas of space shuttles and get a first-hand look into mission control.

In Houston, fashion is considered a fine art and the enormous shopping complexes are certainly testament to that. The largest The Galleria - boasts more than two million square feet of retail space and includes names like Prada, Gucci and Armani.

village, which it does with impeccable style. From the celebrated Ristorante Cavour and its Northern Italian offerings to the Acqua di Parma toiletry selection in every room, each inspired detail contributes to his vision.

But if you prefer a more leisurely retail experience, visit one of the new high-end shopping arcades that are springing up around the city, such as Uptown Park.

Uptown Park is home to a wonderful variety of speciality shops and restaurants, but the pièce de résistance has to be the integral Granduca Hotel - a luxury boutique hotel that offers five-star accommodation and gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

No visit to Houston would be complete without a sampling of the gastronomic delights that the city’s restaurants offer.

Grab a Philly cheese steak sandwich and a bucket of beer at Texadelphia or select an award-winning dry-aged steak at The Capital Grille. Whatever you’re looking for, you will find it, and you will not be disappointed.

Despite the Granduca’s location in the heart of Houston’s shopping district, the hotel has been lovingly designed by its owner, Italian-born Giorgio Borlenghi, to transport you to an Old World Tuscan

Houston may not be the most attractive city you ever visit, but don’t let first impressions fool you. Spend a week in this bustling metropolis and you will discover a city that exudes culture and sophistication, served up with a relaxed charm that you will only find in Texas.

> All images (excluding background) provided by Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau. Images 1 & 2 by Hugh Hargrave. Images 3, 4 & 5 by Julie Soefer.

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When superstars are playing concerts or filming in and around Glasgow, there’s one place they just love to call ‘home from home’.

It’s Mar Hall, the five star golf and spa resort overlooking the River Clyde. In a secluded location just a few miles from Glasgow airport, it’s the ideal place for celebrities to unwind - or for the rest of us to take a luxurious West Coast break.

‘A-listers’ who have laid their heads there include Brad Pitt, Take That, Kylie Minogue, Bob Dylan, One Direction, The Who, Depeche Mode and Lionel Richie.

It is the official hotel of the Scottish football team and has its own full FIFA size pitch. Other football teams who have stayed there and enjoyed the facilities are the Italian national side, Barcelona, AC Milan, Arsenal and Liverpool, amongst others.

The Gothic-style baronial mansion, designed to resemble a stately house in the Elizabethan era, has 53 individually designed bedrooms and suites.

Go shopping ,enjoy the culture or experience the nightlife of Scotland’s biggest city - gearing itself up to host the

Commonwealth Games in July - and be back in the lap of luxury in 20 minutes.

Mind you, there’s no need to leave the resort at all. Attractions include a Decleor Spa offering a wide range of treatments, a 20 metre heated swimming pool and a fully equipped gym.

The 18-hole championship golf course has spectacular views over the Clyde and to the Kilpatrick Hills beyond. Designed by highly acclaimed architect Dave Thomas, it is open 365 days of the year on full tees and greens.

The Cristal restaurant is the setting for fine dining. Dishes prepared by French Executive Chef Eric Avenier and his team might include Twice Baked Mull Cheddar Cheese Souffle, Herb Crusted Three Bone Rack of Ayrshire Lamb, Roast Canon of Highland Venison, or Cappuccino Crème Brulee.

Mar Hall is a favourite destination for couples and is offering a special romantic package from £289 per room. This includes a bottle of Champagne in the room on arrival, a three course dinner, full Scottish breakfast, a Rasul Mud Treatment

in the spa’s Couples Mud Room, and full use of the leisure facilities.

We’re giving away two nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast for two at Mar Hall, plus a spa treatment each.

To enter go to www.trendmagazine.co.uk click on competitions and answer this question:

Which river does Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort overlook?

Mar Hall Hotel, Mar Hall Drive Bishopton, Nr Glasgow Renfrewshire PA7 5NW 0141 812 9999 www.marhall.com

COMPETITION

We have a two night self-catering stay for two at Eagle Brae up for grabs. Eagle Brae is a new luxury self-catering holiday destination that brings unparalleled comfort to the Scottish wilderness experience.

Nestled between Glen Affric and Glen Strathfarrar in the beautiful Highlands, each authentic, Canadian-style, log cabin embodies a new standard in craftsmanship, featuring wild flower roofs, cosy log burning stoves, local artwork and bespoke furnishings. They may be rustic, but there’s no sense that you’re roughing it since they also boast every modern 68

convenience you can think of - including a dedicated PC/office space and Wifi.

Eagle Brae offers a wide range of on and off-site activities, from family friendly pursuits such as pony trekking, archery, walking and canoeing, to more unusual activities such as camera stalking, deer stalking, dog sledding and black grouse safaris.

As part of Struy Estate, Eagle Brae also boasts its own fishing beats and game reserve, making it the ultimate destination for field sports enthusiasts. As a gold member of the Green Tourism Business Scheme, Eagle Brae is entirely powered by on site renewables.

Eagle Brae has seven unique log cabins.

The four smaller cabins, are perfect for a couple’s getaway, each having a double bedroom, a bathroom downstairs and an open mezzanine room upstairs that has been set up as a second sitting room. The larger cabins, are brilliant for families and even have an open plan mezzanine area with fun log beds for kids to sleep in.

Offering perfect luxury and comfort in an idyllic location just 30 minutes from the Highland capital of Inverness, there’s no better way to recharge your batteries than a visit to Eagle Brae. Prize is subject to availability and valid for stays up to 30th June 14

To enter, go to www.trendmagazine.co.uk click on competitions and answer this question:

How many cabins are there at Eagle Brae?

Eagle Brae, Struy, Beauly, Inverness-shire IV4 7LE 01463 761301 / 07738 076711 www.eaglebrae.co.uk

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ART

Having spent a decade as a global nomad, living in different countries with her husband Mark and her three teenage sons, Tracey Swift’s paintings have absorbed the changing landscapes and cultures she has experienced.

Tracey attended art college and worked in advertising before her love affair with painting began in Indonesia.

'I work in my studio surrounded by candles and music. It helps me to capture the mood. I never know what colours I will use until I am in front of my easel,' Tracey explained. 'I use acrylic for the backgrounds and pastel for faces. I apply pastel then remove it with a rubber to bring out features, using the background to enhance this.'

'My inspiration comes from just about anywhere - seeing a face, colours or images. Just sitting having a coffee can get the imagination going! One of my most inspirational sights was the Sistine Chapel.'

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'Since moving to Aberdeenshire three years ago, I’ve been drawn to angelic images.

This started after experimenting with inks, I loved the results and it felt right.'

'Creativity is important to me because I feel I have been given a gift. Getting feedback and seeing people smile gives me a huge sense of satisfaction.'

'I’m lucky to have a lot of exhibitions planned for 2014 including an art project helping to raise awareness of breast cancer, an exhibition at Art in the Hall in Peterculter, the Gordon Art Exhibition in Inverurie, and NEOS. You can also see some of my work in Mama Mia restaurant in Westhill, where I also work part time.

I’m keen to exhibit more widely this year and to keep producing work that speaks to others.'

'I’m happy to discuss commissions and welcome visitors to get in touch by e-mail at: traceyswift.art@hotmail.co.uk to arrange a visit to my studio'.

Celtic rock band Gleadhraich have set themselves the task of transforming Scottish traditional music, and they’re not planning on doing it quietly.

Four years ago a school musical performance prompted Carnoustie High School student Craig Weir to think outside the box, recruiting his younger brother and friends to help him create a modern sound for that most traditional of Scottish instruments, the bag pipes, by pairing them with the sound and energy of a modern rock band.

But High School Musical this performance most certainly was not. 'It went down an absolute storm,' recalled 20 year old Craig. 'So we decided to form a band and then spent the summer of 2010 rehearsing and really building up a repertoire.'

With younger brother Paul on the drums and friends Ross White and Graeme Ritchie on the electric guitar and bass respectively the band set out on a mission to make the sound of the bag pipes relevant to a modern audience.

'I was given a set of pipes by my Uncle Jack when I was 8,' explained Craig. 'At the time I was like, no chance, that’s a proper old man’s instrument. But I was encouraged to give it a go and then make a decision, and I haven’t looked back since. We have set out to disprove that bag pipes are just for older people and make them appealing to a younger generation by being a rock band with pipes up front.'

Fans include First Minister Alex Salmond and Britain’s Got Talent winner, Jai McDowall, who they supported on tour. They’ve just won the Angus Cultural Ambassador Award, too.

'We get a great buzz from performing,' enthused Craig.

'We certainly don’t mess about with slow down tempo ballads, it’s up beat high energy. We have a very exciting year lined up ahead of us and we’d be keen to play more in Aberdeen!'

For more information visit www.facebook.com/Gleadhraich 71

DESIGN

Take a wander down Rosemount Place and you can’t fail to be struck by the appealing tartan couture in the windows of Scottesque. We met the dynamic design duo bringing Scotland’s traditional fabrics to a new audience… to the development of many designs involving tartan and tweed which our customers seem to love.'

Janet Shaw added, 'We both love beautiful fabrics, the colours, the textures, the qualities of the cloth. We are continually inspired by 'real women'. Making our customers happy by making them look good is a strong driving force because much of what is available on the high street neither fits nor flatters.'

Designers Sally Simpson and Janet Shaw met when they worked in the tax and business sectors, when they realised they shared a love of unusual clothes and fashion design. Later, when Sally started her Vintage Phoenix label, Janet joined her and Rose Hip & Tutu was born. A few years later the pair established Scottesque to bring clothes with a Caledonian flair to the market.

Sally chipped in, 'When it comes to designing for an individual customer, it’s very much a collaborative process. For example, we were asked to create a design for a local dance troupe. We met with the choreographer to discuss her ideas and requirements such as budget, physical considerations and the need for the design to work for all the troupe. We both considered the remit, then brainstormed and drew sketches for approval. The prototype worked well and we liked it very much. The customer was delighted and we have a new design to add to our collection!'

Sally Simpson explained, 'As any business develops it evolves.

Rose Hip & Tutu focused on Eco-fashion, using salvaged cloth or re-fashioning existing clothing and using waste cloth from local mills. So we developed these business relationships, which led

'We don’t follow the usual fashion cycle of creating new collections each season, instead we are continually adding to our permanent collection. The nature of our designs and the fact that we mostly make-to-order means that the customer has a lot

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of choice in putting together an outfit to suit their need. We can vary details and offer the designs in any tartan, tweed or plain in a variety of fabrics such as wools and silks. As we also design to order the customer is not restricted by our collection, meaning that most customers have the experience of having a bespoke outfit created to fit and flatter them. Having something made for you is a special experience, but it’s our approach to design and the quality of fabrics that we use that makes our clothes investment pieces.'

Janet continued, 'Both Pamela Stephenson and Billy Connelly have commissioned pieces from us. It’s exciting to create unique pieces for such iconic figures.'

'We would like to continue to build our collection and increase awareness of what we do, especially by development of our website to reach more customers overseas. We’re on Etsy, Facebook, Twitter and ASOS Marketplace as well as selling online, so we’re hoping to take our designs to discerning customers all over the world.'

197 Rosemount Place, AB25 2XP Phone: 01224 622522 E-mail: info@scottesque.co.uk www.scottesque.co.uk 73

Come along to our launch evening to find out all about the awards, meet the judges and hear about the awards experience from a 2013 winner.

To register your attendance e-mail: jwalker@trendmagazine.co.uk

For information on entry requirements, tickets and sponsorship packages e-mail: jwalker@trendmagazine.co.uk or call +44 (0) 1224 596223 74

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HISTORY

The Gordon Highlanders had their beginnings in 1794 when, it is said, the beloved Duchess of Gordon offered kisses and guineas to those recruits who agreed to join her husband, the 4th Duke of Gordon. The Duchess must have been very persuasive because the Regiment was formed and, for the next 200 years, had a global reputation for being one of the most respected and dedicated battalions in the British Army.

In 1994, the Regiment was amalgamated with the Queen’s Own Highlanders and so the trustees established a museum in the home of the late Sir George Reid to preserve the heritage of this proud organisation. Today, The Gordon Highlanders Museum is one of Aberdeen’s most popular tourist attractions.

dressing up in the various uniforms worn by the Highlanders throughout the years, most featuring the popular Gordon tartan.

And every visitor will enjoy the volunteer tour guides - all of whom display an endless enthusiasm for their subject and many of whom served in the Regiment themselves.

Located in Aberdeen’s West End, the museum is home to a collection of riches that has been preserved to tell the story of the brave troops that fought and died in skirmishes including the Napoleonic Wars and both World Wars. With everything from hand-written diaries to life-size statues and an impressive collection of eleven Victoria Crosses, the treasures on display have a very personal impact.

At the end of your visit, a coffee and homemade cake from the café should not be missed and, weather permitting, a stroll through the beautiful memorial garden is advisable. Though nearly twenty years have passed since the Gordon Highlanders stopped serving under that name, it is a comfort to know that the legacy of this unique unit is safe in the hands of Aberdeen’s finest military museum.

For history buffs, the Armoury Room will entice with its assortment of firearms and bladed weapons. Children will love 76

01224 311200 www.gordonhighlanders.com

TEAM BUILDING

In the years since I joined Trend, I have dangled from tall trees, canoed in the icy waters of Fraserburgh, and been battered with paintballs. But in all that time, I can honestly say that nothing challenged my nerve quite like the invitation to join a Confined Space Training session with the Fire Training Group in Dyce.

Located in the grounds of Aberdeen International Airport, The Fire Training Group certifies thousands of students every year in its newly expanded training centre. With state-of-the-art classrooms, experienced instructors and realistic simulators, the varied syllabus provides courses that meet the approved standards of the aviation, offshore and maritime industries.

Most recently, the Fire Training Group has become a City & Guilds approved training centre for Working in Confined Spaces, and it was this course that the Trend crew was invited to attend. Not exactly sure what to expect, we placed ourselves in the capable hands of our instructor Roy then introduced ourselves to fire training fashion - coveralls, helmets and steel-toed wellies.

Before long, we were scuttling around

tunnels on our hands and knees and dragging ourselves through pipes on our bellies. It almost felt like a grown-up playground - until Roy introduced the smoke hood. Picture a rubber balaclava with a filtered mouthpiece, designed to keep you breathing while escaping a smoke-filled space. Suddenly, the gravity of what this training has been designed for sinks in. Crawling through those same tunnels feels very different with breathing apparatus as an accessory. It takes the calm reassurance of an experienced instructor to prevent the racing heart and shortness of breath from turning into full-blown panic.

For us, crawling through pipes and descending ladders attached to a winch was all in the name of experience, but for so many who work in the North-east, this training may save their lives. For them, it should be a comfort to know that The Fire Training Group calls Aberdeen home.

01224 348527 www.thefiretraininggroup.com

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COMMUNITY

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Aberdeen Rotarians are inviting swimmers of all abilities to take part in the Aberdeen Charity Swim on 23rd February from 6pm onwards at the new Aquatics Centre at Aberdeen Sports Village. You can swim alone or organise a team of five or 15 people.

Entry fees are split between the Cyrenians, the Sports Village and the Rotarian’s End Polio Now campaign, with sponsorship going to any charity of your choice. Join special guests including Olympians Keri-Anne Payne and David Carry, and swim to the sounds of local DJs. Find out more at abchswim.org

A group of enterprising RGU Event Management students are holding a Human Table Football Tournament in aid of CLAN. The fun begins on 16th March from 11.30 am at the Woodbank Leisure Centre on North Deeside Road.

Companies and organisations are invited to show off their skills. Each team needs to raise at least £500, with trophies for the best team, best strip and most money raised for CLAN. Spectators can also enjoy stalls, a raffle and a barbecue.

Team members are attached to each other and play on a giant inflatable table.

If you’d like to enter a team, then contact abzevents@hotmail.com

Huntly is celebrating 2014 as the year of Homecoming in style, with a packed programme of events throughout the season. Highlights include The Gordon Schools’ 175th Anniversary which will kick off with a parade commemorating the wars of the past 175 years on 29th March, a photography competition

and much more. Get your kilt out out for the Huntly and District Pipe Band’s free massed pipe band event on 30th August at Huntly Castle. The day culminates in a performance by the Red Hot Chilli Pipers and a massed band parade, as well as stalls featuring local produce, whisky and organisations.

COMPETITION WINNERS

Martin Mackay scored major brownie points with Mrs Mackay when he won our fabulous Aspinal of London handbag worth £595. Gladys Coutts will be whisking herself off to Leeds for a weekend at the Marriott, courtesy of Eastern Airways and Gillian Jones is looking forward to popping down to Aberdeen for a weekend at the Hilton Garden Inn and diner at Native with her husband. That’s a lot of happy spouses!

Fiona Craig and Laura Bremner were both quite excited when they each won a pair of tickets to see Ghost at HMT. We suspect a lot of people will be taking up pottery soon…

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Theatre: Vampires Rock Aberdeen Music Hall Tickets £25.30 +

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Spectra: Aberdeen Festival of Light

Celtic V Aberdeen

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Until 9th February Various locations throughout city

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Life With Style Awards Launch Night The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa

Rizzle Kicks Aberdeen Music Hall

Rent 20th Anniversary Concert HMT

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The Circus of Horrors: London After Midnight Aberdeen Music Hall

Musicians from St. Margarets will be giving a lunchtime concert at the Cowdray Hall

Andrew Lawrence: There is no escape The Lemontree

The Aberdeen Charity Swim 2014 Aberdeen Sports Village Aquatics Centre, Aberdeen

Tickets £9.50 +

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MUSIC: Mike & The Mechanics: The 25th Anniversary Aberdeen Music Hall Tickets:£29.50 +

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Scottish Snowdrop Festival Inverurie

The X Factor Live Tour AECC Tickets: £33.50 +

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Jack Whitehall Gets Around AECC

Friends of AIYF Fundraising Dinner Beach Ballroom

Chris Ramsey: The Most Dangerous Man on Saturday The Lemontree

Tickets: £32.24 +

7pm Tickets: £65.00

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Brendan Cole: License to Thrill Aberdeen Music Hall

Fashion Lunch Malmaison

Charlie House Wonderland Ball The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa

Charity Human Table Football Tournament Woodbank, North Deeside Road

Tickets: £52.50

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Julie Madly Deeply Lemon Tree

Have a look in at Glasshouse, the new craft fair at Fox Lane Garden Centre in Westhill showcasing some of Scotland’s top makers.

£12.00

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24th February Have a look in at Take the family to the art gallery for an exhibition on the Great War.

Rob Beckett Live Woodend Barn, Banchory

Homecoming Scotland: Scotland’s Best Outdoors AECC

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For only £25.00* your event will receive: Two months coverage in Trend Magazine's 'Whats On', publicity on Trend social media accounts & a post on our online calender. Contact clare@trendmagazine.co.uk or call +44 (0) 1224 596223 for more information. *excludes VAT

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TREND SOCIETY: ROUND TABLE FUNDRAISER Members of Aberdeen & District Round Table, the oldest Round Table in Scotland, held a Burns Night Supper at the Cults Hotel, in aid of local charity Archway.

Archway provides care to children and adults with learning disabilities. The Round Table members, known for their community fundraising projects, gathered with friends and colleagues to enjoy a night of traditional Scottish fare and entertainment.

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01 Christine Fleming & Michaela Nicholson 02 Onchittra & Dr Jeffrey Harper 03 Dave Hewat & Jenna Archibald 04 Katharine & Tom Wilcock with Lucy Watson 05 Katie Anderson, Emma Brown, David Simpson, Charlotte Stroud & Amy FIndlay 06 Katie & Barclay Downie with Kerry Downing 07 Morag Macdonald, Lorraine Macleod & Lynda Macdonald 08 Tim & Jackie Dean with Fiona & John Cunningham

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01 Fiona Mathieson & Elaine Reid 02 Steven, Fiona & Kerry Anderson 03 Larraine Derouniam, Christine Loggie & Naomi Gill 04 Nick Nairn & Clare Findlay 05 Nitin Ramtri, Nick Nairn, Jeanette Forbes & Julia Foster 06 Ashleigh Baldwin & Gill Buyers 07 Kevin Buchan & Heather McManos 08 Nicola Corrie, Lorraine Middelton, Julie Wilken & Susie Scott 09 Carmel & Peter Twine 10 Margaret Lamont, Kath Henderson, Elaine Paterson & Nicole Jeffrey 11 Carol Alawi, Kath Watt, & Glynis Odlin

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Nick Nairn opened his restaurant, ‘Native’ at the Hilton Garden Inn and had this to say, ‘I had a fantastic evening. We showcased some wonderful locally sourced Native produce. The chefs and I put together taster canapés derived from dishes on the menu, which were a huge success. The whole restaurant feels great. The team worked extremely hard on the refurbishment and the result is a sophisticated, attractive and comfortable restaurant with a warm and inviting ambiance. So many people are as thrilled as I am to have a new opportunity in Aberdeen to show off what the North-east can offer.'

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Local charity, Charlie House hosted an afternoon tea party at The Park CafĂŠ, Hazlehead, to celebrate their 1st Birthday. Invited guests included businesses, individuals, volunteers, fundraisers and ambassadors who have helped, donated and supported the charity in its first year. Charlie House has raised over ÂŁ300,000 so far and is looking forward to a great second year of fundraising and taking significant steps in providing the specialist care centre for children with life-limiting conditions.

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TREND SOCIETY: CHARLIE HOUSE THANK YOU

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01 Elaine Clark & Adrian Grant 02 Craig Johnstone, Louise Bruce & Sam Tye 03 Colin Ross, Tracy Johnstone, Louis Johnstone (5) & Ellis Johnstone (8) 04 Pamela Black, Sarah Christie, Carol Eddie & Gavin Christie 05 Sandra Chalmers, Irene Miln & Isabel Raeburn 06 Steve Delaney, Tracey Catto, Fiona Bain & Donna Deans 07 Judy Whyte & Alison King 08 Findlay Johnston & David Cobban 09 Audrey Masson, Pat Moir & Dorothy McKay 10 Michelle Herd & Leigh-Ann Rogie 11 Susan Barnard Cameron Matthew, Sue Swift & Kirstin Gove 85

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TREND SOCIETY: SAIPEM LTD'S BURN'S SUPPER

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Saipem Ltd’s annual Burn’s Supper took place at Ardoe House Hotel. The night kicked off with arrival drinks in the foyer, speeches were provided by Aberdeen based Operations Manager Marco Rezzano and Saipem Ltd Managing Director Nigel Swinnerton. A lovely meal was provided by the hotel before the focal point of the night ‘Bags Of Rock’ started, the entertainment was traditional with a modern twist and was raved about by the majority of the guests. The charity draw raised £2100 for ‘Help for Heroes’ in memory of good friends Tony Gardiner and Willie Petrie.

01 Jessie Jordan & Karen Howie 02 Kevin & Gill Graham 03 Arvine & Trude Nordvik 04 Martin & Janice Irvine, Ray & Anne McDonald & Sarah & Lenny Thomson 05 Cristina Casarin & Marco Rezzano 06 Scott Little, Julie Russell, Lisa Little & Jackie Russell 07 Ruth Wright, Rosie Morrison, Bev & Mark Costello 08 Derek & Caroline Douglas 09 Alana Aitken with Laura, Roy & Anne Allan 10 Tordis Draugbid & Arild Toge 11 Tim & Jenny Ebdy 12 Enrico Girello & Ltizia Titone 86

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The Zonta Club of Aberdeen held its annual fund raising lunch in support of the Multiple Sclerosis ward at ARI. The lunch, held at the Marcliffe Hotel and Spa, was attended by 260 people and raised ÂŁ6,326. Dr Elizabeth Visser, a neurologist at ARI gave an interesting and informative talk about Multiple Sclerosis and her recent work in this area. MS affects more women than men and that there is still no cure for this disease. Zonta is a worldwide organization of executives in business and the professions working together to advance the status of women.

01 Gordon Donaldson & Robert Bell 02 Joan Coutts & Isobel Graham 03 Kate Izat & Sue Lindsay 04 Margaret McDonald & Fiona Cook 05 Margot Munro & Muriel Patterson 06 Shirley Ross-Hall, Peggy Finnie & Doreen Gordon 07 Elizabeth Mitchell, Elspeth Allison & Lesley Weir 08 Janet Hosie, Jenny Thomson & Pat Stalker 09 Margaret Wood, Donald Addison & Lorna Sharp 10 Muriel Jaffrey, Lesley Donaldson, Catherine McEwan & Elizabeth Visser 87

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01 Jo Thomas, Alison Elder, Arlene Stewart & Brid Dunn (nee Gillespie), Newtoncunningham 02 Molly Middleton, New York 03 Shona Robson, Abu Dhabi 04 Ross Findlay, Coll Macrae, Lucy Browne, Peter Johnstone, Finlay McPherson & Eric Cavan, RGC S6 Dinner Dance 05 Judith Webster, Havana

Email us at trendylocations@trendmagazine.co.uk with a picture of you holding a copy of Trend against the backdrop of your favourite holiday destination. Don’t forget to include your name/address/ details of your trip and travel companions. We’ll publish our readers’ most inspired pictures and stories from domestic or overseas travels - and the most ‘trendy’ contribution will receive a sleekster of chocolates from Hotel Chocolat to be enjoyed on return to ABZ. 88

TREND EVENTS

• Enjoy a glass of fizz on arrival, followed by a three course lunch with coffee.

• Charlie House to benefit.

• Spring/Summer collections from Phase Eight, Hobbs, Coast and Karen Millen.

• Raffles & Goodie Bags

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Some very determined mums and dads are hoping to make 2014 the year plans come to fruition for a respite and care facility to benefit children in the North-east with complex disabilities.

The £8million Charlie House appeal has already touched a chord with many individuals and companies with over £300,000 in the kitty in a year.

I went to meet Tracy Johnstone, who is Chair of Grampian Children’s Respite Care, at her home in a quiet corner of Kingswells. Yes, there are still quiet corners in this fast-growing suburb of Aberdeen but quiet Tracy certainly isn’t. No, the Birmingham University geological sciences graduate speaks with passion about the cause though her 15-year-old West Highland terrier Mollie appears indifferent.

All she wants to do is to sit on the couch which is out of bounds.

needs of our very special children and give support and care to the families.'

Tracy and her engineer husband, Craig, have a five-year-old boy, Louis, who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy. 'We already had a boy of three, Ellis, when Louis was born but nothing prepares you for dealing with his problems,' she said.

Tracy has put her own career in the oil industry on hold, a career that included working for five years in Norway and latterly as an operations manager with Baker Hughes in Aberdeen. She also holds a Masters degree in business from Robert Gordon University and, boy, does this girl mean business.

'We looked around for help to deal with the situation but sadly we found nothing.

That’s why lots of us are making a huge effort to get somewhere built on our doorstep in the North-east to meet the

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'We know it’s a tall order to raise such a huge amount but we already have some high-placed ambassadors spurring us on to reach our goal and the support we have had is phenomenal. For example, our Wonderland ball at the Marcliffe Hotel on March 15 sold out quickly. Our son Ellis, who is great with his brother, designed the Charlie Dog motif for our charity.'

You can contact her at: tracy@charliehouse.org.uk and why not do what Trend magazine is doing and make Charlie House your charity of the year?