Absolutely Hertfordshire December 2022

STAY IN BED

ZURICH

Bed: Vindö I Fabric: Designer´s Guild Glenville Oyster I Carpet: Light Beige I Bed Linen: Havsbris White I Bedside table: Holme

* Piper-Heidsieck Chief winemaker was acknowledged as best of the year nine times since 2000 by the IWC.

PIPER-HEIDSIECK PAVES A NEW WAY IN CHAMPAGNE BY ACHIEVING THE B CORP SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION.

Exceptional care from a compassionate team

We understand each individual’s journey living with dementia is different which is why the care we provide is bespoke to each resident to fit around each of their needs, likes and dislikes. Our approach is to get to know our residents, be encouraging, supportive and reassuring enabling our residents to live well with dementia.

We have dedicated communities for those living with dementia, offering an environment that supports independent living for as long as possible. Our exclusive My Life pathway, developed by our Head of Dementia Care, helps residents to live well with dementia, providing peace of mind for loved ones. Come and meet the team for yourself and get a sense of what life is like at Signature. Contact our Client Liaison Manager on 01992 721942 to arrange your visit.

“

All the staff at Bentley House are very friendly and most welcoming. The facilities are truly excellent and a cut above their rivals. The moving in experience for my mother was seamless and very efficient, and most importantly, Mum feels welcome and respected and is becoming part of a community and is now making new friends.”

REVIEW FROM NIGEL M (SON OF RESIDENT)

SIGNATURE AT BENTLEY HOUSE

Pegs Lane, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG13 8EG enquiries.bentleyhouse@signaturesl.co.uk signature-care-homes.co.uk

EDITOR

MARK KEBBLE

ART DIRECTOR

PAWEL KUBA

SENIOR DESIGNERS

MIKE ROBERTS SUZETTE SCOBLE

MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM

PRODUCTION MANAGER DANICA BRODIE

GROUP SALES MANAGER - SOUTH ABIGAIL GARDNER

MAGAZINE MANAGER LOUISE PEARSON

SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANTS

STELLA ADAMS, JULIE LANGLEY

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID

DIRECTORS

CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER

MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

LETTER Editor’s

Iam writing this letter on the day that England started their World Cup campaign in Qatar. It's also probably the first time that I have been very indifferent to the tournament too, which growing up football mad I could never have envisaged.

There are a host of reasons for this indifference. The fact it is in Qatar is a real issue for me, particularly after watching Netflix's excellent Fifa: Uncovered documentary that detailed years and years of corruption at football's highest level. Being a chairman of an amateur football club, the way these men took advantage of their power for their own gain, rather than football's, left a really bad taste in the mouth.

Then there is the questionable human rights issues that all and sundry have been pushing, bar of course Fifa who would rather everyone just swept that under the carpet and concentrated solely on football. No chance.

And the fact it's being held in the run up to Christmas is also a negative, particularly with everything going on in Hertfordshire this month. Ditch the football, I say, and concentrate on supporting local businesses and community events. It's all been a reminder to me about what's really important in life.

The Silver Cup Special recipes for a tasty Christmas (p44)

Charlotte Elizabeth

ABSOLUTELY’S December issue highlights

5

Top tips

KEBBLE EDITOR

CHECK MATE

The Barbour Lorelie seersucker dress features all-over checks for a stylish approach to casual dressing. Detailed with volume sleeves and a tiered gathered panel at the hem, it's an easy go-to garment to match with boots. barbour.com

BRANCH OUT

Donna Wilson has taken a new

directon with her art: Abstract Assembly is a collection of sculptures in wood and glass. scp.co.uk

END OF

New to the Conran Shop are these stylish and tactile Fleck bookends, £49, in ochre and white, or white and blue. conranshop.co.uk

BROWN SUGAR

Brodie loves a cashmere piece with a sporty twist. The Love 2.0 jumper is a cosy classic with a contemporary feel. £225 brodiecashmere.com

EDITOR’S PICK

RED ALERT

We believe that Madeleine Thompson's cashmere is the so est and most stylish out there. This red cardigan is a winter essential. madeleine-thompson.com

PRETTY CLAY

House of Hackney's bold prints adorn a new range of ceramics at Anthropologie and we love this deceptively simple vase. £42 anthropologie.com

BRIGHT EYES

New makeup from Paul and Joe features a graphic eye in limoncello yellow, pistachio green, marshmallow pink, coral orange or hot pink. paulandjoe.com

ONE TO WATCH

This is part of the Tudor Black Bay GMT collection with a rotatable bezel, coloured in deep blue and burgundy. £3,050 bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

ZERO CARBON

Sheep Inc's ultra-fi ne, temperature-regulating, Merino wool beanies use yarn sourced from regenerative New Zealand farms and knitted using solar-powered, zero-waste machines. £50 sheepinc.com

NORTH POLE IN ST ALBANS

3-23 DECEMBER

Make memories when Santa’s ‘official’ and busy North Pole Post Office comes to town. The space is beautifully decorated to get everyone into the Christmas spirit and children can meet the elves before writing a letter to Santa and posting it in the magical, talking post box and watch it as it is sent to the North Pole.

enjoystalbans.com

Agenda 14 • Charlotte Elizabeth 16 • Henry Moore 21

The Agenda

DECEMBER'S

HOTTEST HAPPENINGS

FAMILY

Santa's Flight School

3-23 December

ATRIA WATFORD

Enjoy the magic and spirit of Christmas at Atria Watford this festive season as Santa’s Flight School comes to town. Free to all, join in this magical experience and help Rudolph take flight in Atria’s enchanting Christmas adventure. Upon arrival, children will enter Santa’s stables and be greeted by the Big Man himself, and his Sky Flight Elves who will teach them the secrets of reindeer flight. atriawatford.com

Herts Winter Wonderland

Still need gift buying inspiration? This fair has 40+ small businesses who are working tirelessly to create an array of products for you all to enjoy. You can also take advantage of Mini Christmas photoshoots this year, and there is endless family fun with face-painting, bouncy castle, a craft workshop, and an opportunity to meet Santa himself.

eventbrite.co.uk

MUSIC

Carols on the Hour

17 December

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL

A visit to St Albans Cathedral is a must at Christmas. Experience the true meaning of the festive season at the Cathedral’s wonderful Carols on the Hour and family-fun Live Nativity Trail on Saturday 17 December. Warm up in the café with delicious homemade mince pies and a hot chocolate, and browse the shop full of nativities and seasonal gifts.

stalbanscathedral.org

THEATRE

The Snowsmith

10 December-1 January

WARE DRILL HALL

Hertford Theatre are bringing Half a String back to Ware this Christmas, with their signature style of breath-taking puppetry, striking set, atmospheric folk music, and captivating storytelling. The story follows Eira, the experimental meteorologist as she rediscovers the joy of the most magical of weather in this fast-paced, actionpacked original adventure, all to bring joy back to the miserable town of Thawmor, where’s it’s freezing but never snowing. hertfordtheatre.com

MATILDA THE MUSICAL

Roald Dahl’s classic 1988 tale of a bookworm’s quiet rebellion was already a hit stage show – now the creatives behind the West End smash bring Matilda to the big screen with more jokes, new songs, added naughtiness and an extra helping of A-list stars. Newcomer Alisha Weir plays the lead.

ILLUMINATED

EVENT Until 2 January

ASHRIDGE HOUSE

Illuminated is the spectacular new winter gardens festive light experience at Ashridge House in Berkhamsted. This year Ashridge House has worked with Luminism - who’ve designed illuminations trails for 15 years - to bring the historic gardens of the former Royal palace to life for the festive season. You’ll gaze at ‘fields of fire’, walk through tunnels of light and be mesmerised by dazzling displays of colour and sound everywhere you turn during the trail. ashridgehouse.org.uk

This Month’s Must See

NUTCRACKER CHRISTMAS TRAIL

The Enjoy St Albans famous Nutcracker Christmas Trail is a magical event that’s fantastic fun for all the family. Find all the nutcrackers hidden around the beautiful city and be in with a chance of winning a £20 St Albans Gift Card.

Free trail maps are available from the town centre. enjoystalbans.com

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER

Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, Avatar: The Way Of Water begins to tell the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri, and their children), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive and the tragedies they endure.

I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY

The joyous, emotional and heartbreaking celebration of the life and music of Whitney Houston, the greatest female R&B pop vocalist of all time. Tracking her journey from obscurity to musical super stardom, this is a must see for any Whitney fan. odeon.co.uk

Cinematic releases to look forward to at Odeon Hatfield

BAGS OF STYLE

Hertfordshire-based luxury handbag business Charlotte Elizabeth was born out of adversity and royal interest, designer and founder Charlotte Jones tells Absolutely Hertfordshire

By NATALIE LI

When Meghan Markle’s personal assistant contacted Charlotte Jones on Instagram in 2018, it marked a pivotal moment in the young designer’s life. All eyes were on the future princess, Meghan ‘fever’ was at its height and 23-yearold Charlotte questioned the authenticity of the message. It couldn’t be real… But it was.

“Meghan Markle’s PA left a number and asked me to call her, but I thought ‘is this a joke.’ I looked at my emails and I saw this woman’s name, so I Googled it,” she says.

“I rang the PA, and she said that Meghan wanted a chestnut Bloomsbury bag for Thursday afternoon to be delivered to Kensington Palace. This was Wednesday.

“I calmly explained that I was out of stock, and I needed to get it specially made so I called my factory and said: ‘we’ve got Meghan Markle on the phone, and she wants this bag’. The guys at the factory started laughing. They couldn’t believe it.

They turned it around in 24 hours, they normally take six weeks, but we knew this would be a great moment for both of us.

“The next day my dad collected the bag from Buckinghamshire and didn’t stop for breath,” laughs Charlotte as she recalls the pinch-me moment. “My sister drove me to Kensington Palace, and I walked up to the gates. There were scary police o cers with rifles and guns. I simply said: ‘Hi I’m Charlotte, I’m dropping something o for Meghan.’ They replied: ‘Oh yes, the handbag girl, come on in.’ The Kensington Palace team were lovely, and they kept saying ‘are you happy for her to wear this in public?’. They told me that Meghan loved my story.”

Charlotte switched on Sky News the following day to see Meghan Markle stepping o a plane in Northern Ireland with the Bloomsbury bag on full display. It made global headlines – suddenly everyone wanted to know who Charlotte Elizabeth was. She was immediately floored with orders. “Meghan changed our lives. If this hadn’t happened, I don’t think I would

still be doing this job. I have been able to achieve a lot thanks to her,” she smiles.

Today, Charlotte, along with her two sisters Amy, 30 and Emma, 31, work full-time on the business, selling high-quality, elegant leather handbags to 64 countries across the globe. As we chat the entrepreneur, who grew up in St Albans, is buzzing after the arrival of a batch of handbags from their manufacturer in Spain – a year in the making. “I’m sitting in my kitchen surrounded by boxes of handbags. This production should have been in my hands last year, but Covid and Brexit caused delays. It’s the best feeling to see them!”

After undergoing heart surgery and leaving school in Bushey earlier as a result, Charlotte dreamt up Charlotte Elizabeth in her bedroom while in recovery. After years of working on her business plan and creating a website, Charlotte launched her debut handbag ‘Bloomsbury’ in 2016 with the support of The Prince’s Trust, key mentorship, and a financial loan. The brand is partially named after Charlotte’s maternal grandmother, who is a huge inspiration behind her business.

“I said ‘Hi I am Charlotte, I am dropping something o for Meghan Markle’”

“While recovering from my first heart surgery I had this vision and a rush of excitement. I could see the future. I even predicted that a princess would wear it! It was like I knew it was my destiny. I know it sounds crazy saying that,” she grins. “I always knew I wanted to do my own thing. I had tough days and was bullied at school. When you go through any adversity it does something to you – there is great light.

“My grandmother was a huge inspiration,” she adds. “I used to love playing in her dress up boxes. She had the most incredible style, grounding, wit, humour, and compassion like I have never known – a truly exceptional woman. We are so close, and she loves the bags and has been so supportive.”

Charlotte begins her designs in digital and produces paper prototypes. The

curvature of vintage cars governs the shape of her timeless creations. “Old cars are curvature-led and when you look at the leatherwork inside it’s impressive,” she adds. “I have spent a lot of time visiting car shows and museums. The Bloomsbury is loosely based on the back of a Fiat 500 – it was my first car and I love the shape.”

Nature also plays a huge influence in the luxury designs, reflected in the forest green and brown colour schemes. A keen walker, Charlotte treks up to 10 miles every day – a way to meet people, stay mindful, generate business, and draw inspiration for her latest collection.

Health is wealth to Charlotte after she developed PoTS (postural tachycardia syndrome), chronic fatigue/ME and experienced PTSD from the trauma of surgery. “Lockdown proved to be the best thing for me; I was able to recover physically and mentally. I’ve really healed and got into nature, yoga, walks and healthy food. I feel so strong now. My heart has been cleared and I have been medically cured so I can live my life. I am so grateful for every single day.”

Charlotte’s determination is stronger than ever and her considered connection with community and customers is a winning

formula. Quality, longevity and taking things slowly is her long-term vision for the business. And it seems with more recent interest from a few members of the Royal family, the future is looking promising.

“During the pandemic I revisited my original values and mission: to develop a home-grown business. We will follow the slow approach, which goes against this culture of fast fashion. I hope people see something di erent and unique.

“There’s a lot to achieve,” she finishes with a flourish. “We only sell on our website, but we hope to be in stores soon. I believe that with me and my girlies [sisters] at the helm, and by staying true to my values, that we’ll continue to grow.”

Charlotte Elizabeth is o ering a 15% discount with the code'AbsolutelyHerts' until 23 December and is o ering in-person home deliveries. See more at charlottelizabeth.com

CHARLOTTE JONES

MEGHAN MARKLE IS A FAMOUS FAN OF CHARLOTTE ELIZABETH

Get to know… ANNABEL LUCAS

MANAGER (INTERIM), ST ALBANS MUSEUMS

Q Does St Albans Museums often collaborate with the University of Hertfordshire?

A St Albans Museums has been working in partnership with UH Arts + Culture for over 10 years. Before we launched St Albans Museum + Gallery in the summer of 2018, UH Arts + Culture contributed art exhibitions to the old Museum of St Albans on the Hatfield Road. They o er us specialist art curation skills, which enables us to host exhibitions on the scale and ambition of the new and exciting Henry Moore show that opens on 16 December. This unique collaboration between organisations has introduced fresh perspectives, new ideas and visually impactful artworks into our spaces, complementing the output of our own team’s history curators.

Q How excited are you about Henry Moore: Drawing in the Dark?

A So excited! We are uniting the largest collection of Henry Moore’s coalmining drawings since their commissioning 80 years ago. Moore is known for his large bronze sculptures and his drawings of Londoners sheltering from the blitz in 1940, but these drawings have been rarely exhibited. It is often forgotten that Moore was the son of a miner from Castleford in Yorkshire, and as a war artist he developed a detailed series of drawings from sketches he made at Wheldale Colliery. Over several days, Moore sketched miners toiling underground, then worked from his studio in Hertfordshire to create nearly 100 drawings.

It is also very exciting to be opening the exhibition to coincide with the launch of a new publication on the subject, Drawing in the Dark: Henry Moore’s Coalmining Commission,by art historian Chris Owen. This in-depth study of the artist and this commission reaches beyond the exhibition to reveal new insights into Moore’s life and artistic practice.

Q What can we expect to see?

A You will see nearly 50 drawings, several sculptures and sketchbooks by Henry

ANNABEL LUCAS

Weston Gallery

Moore, as well as photographs, films and original mining artefacts from the period. You will be able to trace Moore’s creative process from initial sketches made in the mine, to developmental drawings created back in his studio, to final compositions that he made for the commission. You can also get creative in the space with drawings, trails and other activities. A unique and enthralling programme of talks, workshops and drop-ins also o ers the public opportunities to further explore Moore’s work and their own ideas and creativity.

A Yes, together the exhibition and book will shed new light on the life and artistic processes of one of Britain’s most celebrated sculptors. We can learn so much about an artist from their sketchbooks, notes or letters; understanding the journey that has led to a final artwork. The coalmining commission highlights Moore’s skills as a draughtsman and it is a rare opportunity to trace his ideas from sketchbook drawings

and notes, through to finished pieces. It is also one of the rare occasions Moore turned his attention to the male figure; usually he was drawn to the female form.

Q Is the Weston Gallery a great setting for the exhibition?

A The Weston Gallery is the perfect setting for the exhibition! Visitors will travel downstairs to the subterranean

gallery, with dark walls and spotlights evoking something of Wheldale Colliery – it will be brilliantly atmospheric.

Q It opens to the public on 16 December – do you see this as being a festive treat with a di erence for art lovers?

A This is certainly a festive treat for art lovers and it’s free too! We are incredibly privileged to be borrowing remarkable drawings and sculptures from a range of prestigious lenders, including the V&A, British Museum, Henry Moore Foundation, Moore family, National Coalmining Museum, Imperial War Museum, Whitworth Art Gallery, She eld Museums, The Hepworth Wakefield and Leeds City Museums. We are very lucky to have financial support from the Arts Council England and Henry Moore Foundation to make this ambitious exhibition possible.

Q Do you live in Hertfordshire yourself?

A Yes, I have lived in Hertfordshire all my life, the last 15 years in St Albans. I love the county’s mix of urban and rural, often in very close proximity to one another.

I also appreciate how Hertfordshire marries a connection to London with the county’s own identity and sense of place.

Q Where would your three favourite places in the county be?

A My three favourite places in Hertfordshire have to be the Henry Moore Foundation (Perry Green), Heartwood Forest (Sandridge) and Shaw’s Corner (Ayot St Lawrence).

Henry Moore: Drawing in the Dark runs from 16 December 2022-16 April 2023 at the Museum + Gallery. Find out more at stalbansmuseums.org.uk

“The

will be brilliantly atmospheric”

Q Do we learn anything new about Henry Moore?

THE HENRY MOORE FOUNDATION AT PERRY GREEN

HENRY MOORE, AT THE COAL FACE 1942 IMAGE (C) THE WHITWORTH, THE UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER

PIT BOYS AT PIT HEAD 1942 WAKEFIELD

PERMANENT ART COLLECTION IMAGE COURTESY OF THE HEPWORTH WAKEFIELD

HENRY MOORE SKETCHES TWO MINERS AT WHELDALE COLLIERY

1942 PHOTO R SAIDMAN

SPECIAL Christmas GIFT Wrapped

Still seeking inspiration when it comes to that tough to buy for relative? Inside we have top picks for her, him, pets and the home that may just inspire you.

Christmas IN SOHO

Head to Soho, the creative hub of London’s West End, for a vibrant mix of independent and concept fashion stores, tailors, record stores, restaurants and bars this Christmas.

This Christmas Soho has something for everyone, and start by popping by some of the most exclusive and independent stores in London. Head to RÆBURN, Footpatrol, Axel Arigato, Wood Wood and Oliver Spencer for the perfect gift for fashion lovers, or visit A.P.C for Parisian classics, Billionaire Boys Club for exclusive launches and collaborations, plus Ace & Tate for some fabulous eyewear.

If vintage is more your style, Dunno. Curated sells one-o products from brands such as Champion and Versace, and you can find premium grade designer vintage clothing and accessories at Reign Vintage.

Find the perfect gift for music lovers at Sister Ray and Reckless Records – an integral part of Soho’s rich history is the presence of vinyl and record stores.

For stocking fillers, head to beauty and grooming stores, Aesop, KLORIS and Johnny’s Chop Shop, as well as MÜHLE where you can find premium shaving brushes, razors, and shaving sets. Don’t forget to visit BLEACH, pioneers of dipdyes, rainbow hues and silver sheens, for all your hair care products this Christmas.

Some of the most well-known jewellery stores can be found in the heart of Soho.

For a gift for that special someone head to iconic rock and roll jewellers The Great Frog to find a timeless piece that will last a lifetime, or Sacred Gold for a luxurious jewellery and shopping experience in London. For something more cutting edge, Metal Morphosis o ers the most extensive range of piercing and fashion jewellery.

After some serious Christmas shopping, it’s time to discover the diverse selection

restaurants, bars and cafés Soho has to o er. Tuck into mouth-watering dishes from Evelyn's Table, Kricket, The Duck and Rice, BAO, Inko Nito and many more. Plus Ramo Ramen, Ugly Dumpling, Ember Yard and Temper are all among popular eateries in the area.

If you fancy a drink after a long day of exploring Soho, you can enjoy delicious cocktails at Heritage, who use masterful mixology and the finest spirits to bring you a cocktail menu with elaborate flavour infusions, and SOMA for drinks inspired from India and beyond. You can also find new openings from Tel-Aviv inspired Miznon and Speedboat Bar who bring the Thai flavours of Bangkok to London.

Don't miss the bright neon Soho signs on Beak Street and Newburgh Street. What can you spot as you walk through Soho? Make sure to snap your photos and tag @ThisIsSoho on socials.

thisissoho.co.uk

Why Soho is the go-to London destination for shopping and dining this Christmas

BEIJA

Waves Z Bra & Brief in Black, £85 beija.london

HERMÉS

Navy Nantucket Serti Joaillier watch, £6,580 net-a-porter.com

RACHEL JACKSON

Birthstone Huggie Hoop Earrings in Ruby, £70 racheljacksonlondon.com

ASTLEY CLARKE

Circulus Mother of Pearl Ring, £150 astleyclarke.com

KATE SPADE

CHLOBO

ROCK ON RUBY

All she wants for Christmas

By PENDLE HARTE

Bookshelf stainless steel coffee mug, £28 katespade.co.uk

LIBERTY Liberty Accessories Crackers, £60 libertylondon.com

HENRY DANIEL

Anna Camera Bag, £365 henrydanielroma.com

LOEV JEWELRY

Toi et Moi Checkerboard Brilliant Bangle, £8,816 loevjewelry.com

SIF JAKOBS

Necklace Roccanova Grande with Green Zirconia, £139 si akobs.uk

BAKER BROTHERS DIAMONDS

18ct White Gold & Diamond Necklace, £3,500

bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

£25 sbri.co.uk

PANTHERELLA

Tabitha Cashmere Socks in Sky Blue, £34.50 pantherella.com

EDITOR’S PICK

JAEGER-LECOULTRE

Rendez-Vous Night & Day watch, £POA jaeger-lecoultre.com

KATE SPADE

Sam icon candy gem embellished satin small tote, £395 katespade.co.uk

AMELIES FOLLIES

Aubade Histoire

D’Unsoir nightie, £179 ameliesfollies.co.uk

RADLEY Christmas dog socks, £12 radley.co.uk

ELOISE JEPHSON

Silk satin sleep set,£250 eloisejephson.com

OLIVER BONAS

Quentin alphabet initial mini travel jewellery box, £14.50 oliverbonas.com

Bennet Faux Fur Slipper, £36.95 justfab.co.uk

SBRI

THE TRIPLE-FOUR LIMITED-EDITION RACING CHRONOGRAPH

“All British land speed world record cars link back to Brooklands, and this luxury watch pays homage to that legacy with precision timing and exquisite design.” - Land Speed World Record Holder Andy Green OBE.

Brooklands designed and operated the World’s first motor race chronograph accurate to 1000th of a second in 1907. Over 100 years later, we introduce a British classic limited to 500 units. Swiss made, designed by Sir Terence Conran and inspired by the heritage of the Brooklands Motor Circuit.

SBRI

Personalised leather dog walk accessories bundle, £52 sbri.co.uk

PET TEEZER

Cat grooming brush, £10 tangleteezer.com

WILD ONE

Twist toss dog toy, £20 selfridges.com

OLIVER BONAS

Set of two raised dog bowls, £55 oliverbonas.com

PETCUBE

Pet camera, £39.96 johnlewis.com

ELEANOR BOWMER

Pet placemat in dalmatian, £7.96 johnlewis.com

SBRI

Luxury leather dog collar, £45 sbri.co.uk

OLIVER BONAS

Orange & blue tassel rope dog lead, £19.50 oliverbonas.com

CHARLEY CHAU

Deeply dishy luxury dog bed in teal & fuchsia, from £145 charleychau.com

Gifts

for PETS

Festive treats for our furry friends

EDITOR’S PICK

DOGGY

BAKING CO.

Carrot cake mix in a bottle, £10.99 bottledbaking.co.uk

CHESHIRE & WAIN

Rococo lilac cat collar, from £55 cheshireandwain.com

JOULES

Dog mattress in rainbow dog print, from £50 joules.com

HERTFORDSHIRE’S NEW LAGER

Alchemist is Hertfordshire’s new independent premium lager, brewed by Tring Brewery using the finest hops from the Czech Republic and Germany. These hops have been blended with quality malts and authentic lager yeast for notes of gentle spice and sweet grain.

Alchemist Lager is liquid gold!

By PENDLE HARTE

Everything YOUR HEART DESIRES

Head

This festive season head down to Carnaby for the ultimate Christmas shopping and dining experience in the heart of the West End. This central London destination has an incredible atmosphere that boasts a diverse and eclectic collection of retailers, bars, pubs, and restaurants, all within walking distance of Oxford Circus and Piccadilly tube stations. Carnaby has over 100 retailers and more than 60 restaurants which spans across 30 global cuisines. The iconic London destination is made up of 14 streets which includes famed foodie courtyard Kingly Court and creative hub, the Newburgh Quarter.

This Christmas, Carnaby has something for everyone, with brand new openings from Stine Goya, RIXO, Ksubi, and Dickies. Take a visit to premium French fashion brand IKKS Paris, Amsterdam based brand Scotch & Soda and Danish brands Han Kjøbenhavn and GANNI for some Scandi style. Discover Rolling Stones lifestyle brand RS No. 9 Carnaby, for authentic British brands visit Aubin and RÆBURN. Stop by Bloobloom for a beautiful range of spectacles and sunglasses, head to lounge and underwear brand Gilly Hicks or discover NICCE for those perfect stocking fillers.

Visit the Newburgh Quarter, which is located just o Carnaby Street, the best place to find gifts from independent and one-o concepts. Find independent stores such as Annie’s Ibiza, iconic rock and roll jewellers The Great Frog, bespoke tailors Mark Powell and highly respected piercers Metal Morphosis.

Shopping for beauty lovers? Carnaby’s beauty o erings include; M.A.C, Too Faced, Benefit, KLORIS, Pixi and laser facial specialists Skin Laundry.

Whilst you’re busy shopping for the festive period don’t forget to fuel up at some of the most diverse and exciting eateries in London. Dine in renowned names such as Kanada-Ya, Polpo, Dishoom, Kolamba, Jinjuu and Zahter. Uncover Kingly Court, the three-floor foodie hub, nestled in the heart of Carnaby. The courtyard o ers 25 concept dining experiences. In Kingly Court discover Marsha, a zero waste chicken concept, or head along to Imad's Syrian Kitchen for an authentic Syrian dining experience. This year Carnaby Celebrates features a medley of iconic lights from the past 25 years with themes including an underwater seascape, colourful rainbows, oversized fairy lights, giant snowmen, 60s inflatables, a kaleidoscope of butterflies and collaborations with two of the world's most famous bands; the Rolling Stones and Queen. It’s not to be missed. The installation illuminates Carnaby Street, Foubert’s Place, Ganton Street

and Newburgh Street. The iconic Carnaby arches are adorned with silver shimmer discs embellished with carnival decorations and a dazzling globe has been brought back to celebrate ‘Carnaby Welcomes The World’. Whilst you're in the area why not visit the Choose Love pop up? Located at 15-17 Foubert’s Place, Choose Love will be selling a collection of limited edition products, along with refugee gifting packages plus a constant stream of celebrity guests popping in to serve customers.

See more at carnaby.co.uk Follow @CarnabyLondon for updates

to Carnaby for the ultimate Christmas shopping and dining experience

UNTAMED LUXURY Unlock the magic this Christmas

& DRINK

CERTIFIED SUCCESS

PIPER-HEIDSIECK

Earlier this year, the efforts of Piper-Heidsieck were recognised as they became B Corp Certified, joining a community of companies that are leading a global movement for an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.

Acquiring the certification is an extensive process involving the assessment of each brand’s social and environmental influence.

Read more on page 49. piper-heidsieck.com

WHAT TO DRINK GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for Christmas

Baron de Lay Rioja Reserva, Spain  £12

Made primarily using Tempranillo grapes that are grown in Baron de Ley’s Mendavia vineyards, this Reserva's deep cherry colour and complex aromas are the result of spending 20 months in new oak casks, followed by maturation in the bottle. coop.co.uk

Campaneo Old Vines Garnacha, Spain  £5

A beautifully smooth, rich and full-bodied red with rich plum notes, light spice flavours and just a touch of cherry on the finish. This Garnacha is made from old bush vines 15 to 50 years of age, which give the wine its concentrated fruit flavours. tesco.com

The Hidden Sea Red Blend, Australia  £7.50

This wine is a wellcrafted combination of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec. It is bright red with aromas of red berries, fruit cake spice and toasty oak. These characters carry onto the palate, which is smooth, rich and long. coop.co.uk

TASTING

NOTES

Hertfordshire's food news and most exciting openings this month

By MARK KEBBLE

Raise a glass

THE IVY ST ALBANS

Celebrate the festive season at The Ivy St Albans Brasserie, where they will be serving an array of joyful treats, including a limited-edition festive cocktail menu created in collaboration with Monkey 47, delicious a la carte dishes, afternoon tea and lavish set menus designed for larger parties. Featuring six celebratory cocktails, the drinks o ering for the Christmas season includes the Popping Cracker Royale (£13.75).

theivystalbans.com

AFTER PARTY Highlights in the postChristmas period in Hertfordshire

CHOICE IS YOURS

CENTURION CLUB

SOPWELL HOUSE

THE GROVE

The Grove has launched a new seasonal menu at one of its restaurants, The Stables. Starter highlights include jerusalem artichoke soup, line-caught tuna tartar and sauteed foraged mushrooms with a madeira cream sauce. To follow, options include heritage cauliflower with curried lentil dahl, chicken and leek pie and kale and porcini risotto with Wiltshire tru e, in addition to an array of meats and fish from the grill. Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy the apple and foraged blackberry crumble and sticky to ee pudding. thegrove.co.uk

Stable hand Stacking up

FRANKIE’S & BENNY’S

Frankie & Benny’s Watford has launched its special new menu. The new dishes include creamy chicken & nduja pasta, black ‘n’ blue burger, chicken & halloumi burger, BBQ platter for two, lemon pepper salmon, a range of loaded fries including bu alo chicken and BBQ brisket and a Mediterranean grain salad. There are also new great vegan dishes. frankieandbennys.co.uk

Head to Sopwell House for an alternative take on Boxing Day dinner. Omboo, their Asian inspired sharing plates restaurant, is pulling out all the stops this Boxing Day evening, with a set menu full of delightful dishes, sake and plum wine to complement the meal. sopwellhouse.co.uk/christmasand-new-year

Choose from cosy Christmas lunches, an intimate celebration with friends or a festive party with colleagues at Centurion Club. The Club will o er fine wine and a selection of seasonal menus guaranteed to get you into the festive spirit. Their afternoon tea will take on a festive twist and throughout December the menus available in the Restaurant and Private Dining rooms feature all the traditional favourites among a range of other dishes. centurionclub.co.uk/dining

DOWN HALL

The end of 2022 calls for even bigger celebrations than usual and what better way to welcome the new year than a night of festivities at Down Hall in Bishop’s Stortford. Join them for a black tie canape reception before sitting down to a sumptuous six course dinner. downhall.co.uk

SET FOR CHRISTMAS

PUDDINGSTONE DISTILLERY

TEWINBURY

Ring in the new year at the Welwyn live music favourite. They’ll have live music from the incredible Indi & The Vegas, street-style food, along with cocktails, beers and drinks flowing throughout the night. tewinbury.co.uk

Perfect for the gin lover in your life, these gin gifts sets from Hertfordshire’s Puddingstone Distillery contain a full sized bottle of gin and two gold decorated gin glasses. Choose any gin from the distillery’s multi-award winning Campfire Gin range, PUD PUD Christmas Gins or help support the local wildlife trust with Ultrasonic Gin. puddingstonedistillery.com

FLAIR Festive

Need some Christmas cooking inspiration?

Matthew Reeder, the head chef at Harpenden’s The Silver Cup, is here to help

CHIPOTLE HONEY ROAST HAM

The Silver Cup sits on the edge of Harpenden Common and is minutes from the bustling High Street and the station. A part of Harpenden’s community for nearly 200 years, friends Matthew Reeder and Michael Singleton have lovingly refurbished the pub to bring it up to date – a public house for the 21st century.

They serve top quality Modern British food in their dining room, it’s just a little bit special but welcoming and unpretentious. They’ve retained the bar so everyone is welcome to call in for a drink and a bar snack. They have been such a hit, they were named Hertfordshire’s Best Pub for 2022 by the National Pub and Bar Awards.

In the run up to Christmas, we all get a little stressed out about cooking over the festive period, but Matthew – the head chef as well as co-founder at The

Silver Cup – has some words of advice.

“I prefer to cook roast beef on Christmas Day, and with the bird flu outbreak causing turkey shortages, this year it will be harder to get hold of turkey at a reasonable price,” he says. “If you are looking to do something impressive on a budget, the chipotle honey roast ham recipe (right) really is a winner, as you can prepare all the day before and a ham joint goes a long way. The glaze is also a fabulous dipping sauce to store in the fridge and use on other meats, for instance it’s great on chicken to give it a tang and make it more exciting.

“A little Christmas cooking tip is to utilise your BBQ, as long as it has a closing lid,” he adds. “Use it just like an oven, let the coals die down to the temperature that works for your roasting joint, and it not only adds more flavour, but also frees up your oven for roast potatoes!”

Want to wow your guests? Here Matthew rustles up some recipes to really ensure you have a cracking Christmas.

Matthew says

“The chipotle dressing is great for brushing over cheaper cuts of meat to elevate them and make them utterly delicious as a Sunday roast lamb or pork shoulder. The glaze works exceptionally well on a honey roast ham recipe, which is cheap and feeds plenty. It can also be used for glazing chicken breasts to make your midweek dinners more exciting. Once a batch is made and placed in the fridge, it can also be used as a dipping sauce or BBQ marinade. If you don’t have time for the chipotle ketchup you can make dressing/ glaze easily with a shop brought replacement. I recommend this dressing for all home pantries.”

Chipotle Honey Roast Ham

INGREDIENTS

For the chipotle and honey mustard glaze

• 100g chipotle ketchup

• 50g wholegrain mustard

• 100g honey

• 25g sherry vinegar

For the ham

• 2 onions

• 2 carrots

• 1 leek

• 2 stick celery

• 1 bulb garlic

• 2 bay leaves

• ½ bunch thyme

• Teaspoon star anise

• Teaspoon black peppercorns

• Teaspoon cloves

• 1 large gammon joint

METHOD

1 Place gammon joint in large stock pot and cover with water. Bring up to a gentle simmer, skimming any layers that rises to the top.

2 Finely dice the onions, carrots, leek, celery, garlic, along with the herbs and spices and fry in a little oil on a low heat for 5 minutes (in a Mirepoix) and add to the stock pot.

3 Once simmering, drop down the temperature and simmer for 4 hours or until centre of the ham is cooked to 58 degrees.

4 Once cooked, cool in the stock for 1-2 hours. Then pull the ham leg out and place onto baking tray. Score the skin with a sharp knife, creating small squares, then glaze with the chipotle honey mustard mix.

5 Place into oven at 180 degrees and cook for 1 hour, basting throughout to build caramelisation. When golden brown, place on a serving platter and carve at the table with a sharp carving knife.

MATTHEW REEDER

THE SILVER CUP

Venison Scotch Egg

Makes 10

I NGREDIENTS

• 500g venison mince

• 500g sausage meat

• 4 sprigs rosemary, chopped

• 3 juniper berries, grated

• 13 eggs

• 250g panko breadcrumbs

• 100g plain flour

• 10g salt

M ETHOD

1 In a large mixing bowl, combine the venison mince, sausage meat, chopped rosemary and grated juniper. Add salt. Cook a small sample in frying pan to check seasoning.

2 Bring a pan of heavily seasoned water to boil. Carefully place 10 eggs in and cook for 6 minutes and then refresh in ice bath. Once chilled set aside and then peel.

3 Weigh meat mix into 100g balls, flatten out in palm of hand and wrap the eggs one by one. Place onto floured tray.

4 Prepare egg wash by whisking 3 eggs in a bowl with a splash of water.

5 Set three bowls up; one with flour, one with the egg wash and one with the panko mix.

6 Dip the wrapped eggs into the flour, followed by the egg wash, then the breadcrumbs. Repeat this process twice.

7 Preheat a pan of oil or a fryer to 180 degrees. Fry for 4 minutes. Finish in the oven at 180 degrees for 5 minutes. Rest for 2 minutes before serving.

8 Serve with English mustard.

Sticky To ee Pudding

INGREDIENTS

• 800g dried dates

• 1l of water

• 1 teaspoon bicarb of soda

• 340g softened butter

• 700g dark brown sugar

• 8g of baking powder

• 150g vegetable oil

• 540g of plain flour

• 8 eggs lightly beaten

• 6g salt

• 9 Earl Grey teabags Sticky toffee sauce

• 500g butter

• 500g soft brown sugar

• 500g double cream

METHOD

1 In a pan filled with the water, boil teabags along with the dates and bicarb of soda. After five minutes, remove the teabags and continue to boil until the water has evaporated. Let mixture cool.

2 In a mixer, cream the sugar and butter together. Slowly whisk in the eggs and then add the oil to emulsify. Add the flour, baking powder and salt and continue to whisk until creamy.

3 Gently pour in the cooled date mixture and fold together until all mixed together.

4 Pour into a 20cm square cake tin, or two loaf tins and bake at 160C for 45 minutes.

5 For the toffee sauce, add ingredients to a pan and heat gently until the mixture is glossy and a rich toffee colour.

6 Pour toffee sauce over the puddings and serve with cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

INGREDIENTS

• 30ml Kraken

• 50ml Advocaat

• 1 dash chocolate bitters

METHOD

1 Build & stir, top with ice.

2 Garnish, sprinkle with cinnamon. thesilvercup.co.uk

STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING

VENISON SCOTCH EGG

Sopwell House

CHAMPAGNE MOMENTS

Since its inception, PiperHeidsieck owes its success to audacious leadership and a pioneering spirit, anchored in its companywide practices – an approach now being recognised by others.

The House showcases its unwavering commitment towards a conscientious, sustainable future and responsible Champagne production by implementing several initiatives across a number of areas including its carbon footprint reduction, vineyard operations, social impact and supplier management.

Now, the e orts of the Champagne House, Piper-Heidsieck, have been recognised as it becomes B Corp Certified, joining a community of companies that are leading a global movement for an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative change.

A NEW WAY FORWARD

B Corp certification is given to businesses that meet high standards of social

and environmental impact, verifying its performance, accountability, and transparency by allowing information to be measured against B Lab’s criteria. Piper-Heidsieck obtained a score of 91.9 points, verified by B Lab, the non-profit network founded in 2006.

Acquiring the certification is an extensive process involving the assessment of each brand’s social and environmental influence with more than 200 questions as defined by B Lab, covering governance, employees, communities, and the environment.

PIPER-HEIDSIECK CEO BENOIT COLLARD

“Achieving B Corp certification reflects our pioneering ethos and daring initiative

to be a driving force of change within the Champagne industry. This certification not only recognises our environmental impact in the vineyards, but extends to our entire winemaking ecosystem, our community and our workplace.

“This process began with an innovative vision from our Chief Winemaker Emilien Boutillat, which propelled our entire team on a journey to work together towards a shared mission, and I am immensely proud to see this remarkable achievement brought to life. Becoming B Corp Certified marks a commemorative occasion in the history of Piper-Heidsieck, yet it also signifies that together we are striving towards sustainable change and we hope to inspire others in the wine industry to implement similar initiatives.”

For Piper-Heidsieck, the B Corp certification represents a first milestone in the reinvention of the iconic Champagne House’s operations towards a positive and purpose-driven business model.

piper-heidsieck.com

How Piper-Heidsieck is uncorking a sustainable future

“It has an unwavering commitment to sustainability”

PHOTO: TIM COPPENS

CHAIN EFFECT

The paperclip chain trend has been huge this year and is here to stay for 2023. These dainty little chains look like, well, paperclips all hooked together. Except, the accessory is way more high-end. At Galio they have the look to suit any pocket, in silver or gold, long or short. Layer it with your favourite pieces, link on lockets and charms to make it your own. galio.co.uk

GALIO

The Triple-Four Racing Chronograph has made a seriously dazzling impression on the world of horology since its launch this autumn. Limited to just 500 examples, the debut timepiece from new British firm Brooklands Watch Company is a modern classic with heritage at its heart.

Designed by the visionary Sir Terence Conran, the Triple-Four is inspired by the golden age of racing at Brooklands, the birthplace of motor sport and aviation in Britain. Sir Terence’s father often attended the races at Brooklands’ historic track in Surrey and his mother learnt to fly at its Flying Club.

His Triple-Four Chronograph design references the record-holding NapierRailton racing car built at Brooklands in 1933. The watch face perimeter is banked, echoing Brooklands race track’s unique

sloped embankment, while the blue leather strap echoes the distinctive block tread design of early car tyres. Its back reveals a rotor design modelled after the car’s legendary Triple-Four Aero aircraft engine.

The Triple-Four has already received praise from the likes of Tracey Llewellyn, watch editor of The Telegraph. In The Best Watches for Motoring Enthusiasts in WatchPro, Tracey noted that “watches and cars are a match made in mechanical heaven” and named the Triple-Four “a modern classic”.

An ideal Christmas gift, each of the 500 limited-edition watches is individually numbered, signed by Sir Terence and presented in a beautiful blue velvet-lined leather watch box. Displayed neatly inside are the Triple-Four Chronograph, a slim brass warranty card and a members badge. This badge entitles the Triple-Four owners to a drive on Brooklands’ world-famous Test Hill track in a specially commissioned Brooklands Watch Company electric Bugatti Baby II car.

Brooklands Watch Company was founded by aeromechanical engineer Simon Je s. “The Triple-Four is a piece of art with a purpose. It has a beating heart and a story of British motor racing to tell,” he explains. “I’ve enjoyed flying for many years and settled mainly on helicopter flying before motorsport took over. I visited Brooklands racetrack to see my uncle’s Brooklands racing car being run after many years in storage. It was incredible. I was astonished that Brooklands built and operated the first Motor Racing Chronograph accurate to 1000th second in 1907. This inspired me to create a luxury British watch brand.”

The limited-edition Triple-Four retails at £5,754 and is available on the Brooklands Watch Company website and until the end of the year exclusively at The Conran Shop, Chelsea. Brooklands Museum Trust and London’s Design Museum will both benefit from the sale of each watch.

Taking a closer look at the debut timepiece from Brooklands Watch Company, designed by Sir Terence Conran no less

SIR TERENCE CONRAN

TRIPLE-FOUR CHRONOGRAPH WITH WARRANTY AND MEMBERS BADGE

Festive jewels

Nine of the best jewellery pieces from Galio in St Albans

GALIO.CO.UK

EARRINGS

SHINE of the TIMES

The latest collection from Anthropologie, found at their St Albans store, will certainly mean you are the life and soul of the party this Christmas

& BEAUTY

HOLIDAY SPARKLE

CHANEL

You can celebrate the holidays in a swirl of stars with this stunning new holiday collection. When searching for inspiration for 2022's exclusive range, it seems that Chanel’s Makeup Creation Studio simply looked to the skies. The result is a truly stunning collection of shimmering products, all delicately embossed with a celestial signature. chanel.com

Barnet Store | Call - 020 8449 1993 Website - www.specsdirectbarnet.co.uk

Visit - 129 High Street, Barnet, Herts, EN5 5UZ

Stevenage

BEAUTY

NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare

By RACHEL HOGG

Ancient SCIENCE

FOREST ESSENTIALS

An indulgent haven will be coming to the UK this month when the luxury Ayurvedic beauty brand, Forest Essentials, opens its first UK standalone store. Inside its doors, customers will be able to uncover the secrets of centuries-old Indian beauty treatments and access holistic healthcare advice. forestessentials.co.uk

Yours Forever

REIA

We’ve found the perfect subscription for any eco-conscious beauty lovers looking to reduce the presence of single-use plastic in their bathrooms. Subscribers are each sent a glass ‘forever bottle’, which can be refilled with one of the innovative pouches, which are delivered as o en needed. reia.store

FOCUS

TREAT YOURSELF

MOLTON BROWN

Take the most luxurious shower of your life courtesy of this new product by Molton Brown. The Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold Bath & Shower Gel contains a combination of rare and rich ingredients and is infused with flakes of 23.5-carat gold. You’ll love the heady fragrance, with its base of honeyed resins, heart of heavy Oudh accord, and top notes of shimmering bergamot. moltonbrown.co.uk

Skin Laundry prides themselves on having made laser facials ‘a thing’, so this month I stopped into their Soho location to see what all the buzz is about. I was advised to start o with their Signature Laser Facial, which acts as an introduction to their laser procedures. The treatment is performed using a YAG laser, which works by penetrating deep into the skin. This second layer of skin is where most of the problems exist, hence why laser treatments are a cure-all for most skincare a ictions. As it was working, the technician explained how the laser is able to target each of my major skin concerns, which are hormonal acne, fine lines and hyperpigmentation. I wouldn’t describe the procedure as uncomfortable, but as the laser works, you do feel a zapping sensation, which is similar to how laser hair removal feels, just less intense. I noticed the laser getting louder and slightly more painful in certain areas, which is apparently because that is where there was more congestion or pigmentation. Any discomfort was only temporary, the technician did just four passes over my face and I was in and out of the door in under 30 minutes. This, and the minimal downtime afterwards, is why I think this facial would be perfect for anyone wanting to squeeze a quick treatment into their lunch break.

SKIN LAUNDRY

To find a clinic near you visit, skinlaundry.com

We have found the perfect facial for the busy o ce worker

OLAPLEX

No.7 Bonding Oil, £28 cultbeauty.co.uk

BREAD BEAUTY SUPPLY

Hair-Oil: Everyday Gloss, £22 spacenk.com

ATHLETIA

Dual Essence

Body Oil, £48 athletia-beauty.co.uk

OUAI

Rose Hair & Body Oil, £26 cultbeauty.co.uk

BIOSSANCE

100% Squalane Oil, £26 sephora.co.uk

CHANEL

Coco Mademoiselle Body Oil, £62 chanel.com

OILED-UP

These hydrating oils will see you through the party season

By RACHEL HOGG

Cannabis Perfume Oil, £27 malinandgoetz.co.uk

CHARLOTTE TILBURY Collagen Superfusion Facial Oil, £60 charlottetilbury.com

LA MER

The Renewal Oil, £205 cremedelamer.co.uk

L’OCCITANE

Almond Supple Skin Oil, £38 uk.loccitane.com

MALIN + GOETZ

Scene STEALER

By TRISHA BULLER

The tinsel-covered rollercoaster of Christmas is fast approaching and soon we’re going to be rushing through the twists and turns, and ups and downs, of the busiest –some might say craziest – time of the year. It’s your choice. You can choose to ignore the clatter, and the squeals of excitement, or you can jump on board and enjoy the ride. I know which ticket I’ll be buying!

I’m convinced the secret of having a great Christmas – and a great life, for that matter – is to really live, or ‘be in’ each moment. Be present, and try to squeeze every last drop of enjoyment juice out of even the sourest lemon. Okay, so the thought of peeling hundreds of spuds, or stu ng turkey might not make your heart leap with joy, but it can be fun. Go on and try it… it really is the greatest gift.

Talking of gifts, why not treat yourself to a bold new look? It needn’t be expensive. A bright, luscious new lippy, a flash of glittery eye shadow, or a handful of new ‘statement’ hairpins, in a classy, glamorous up-do can really get you into the Christmas spirit.

If you’ve been thinking about really pushing the boat out with a dramatic new cut or colour, party season really is the perfect time to launch your new look. If you want to

make a grand entrance, a bold new hairstyle is guaranteed to have the desired e ect.

Make a splash with those extensions you’ve often thought about, give those big Hollywood curls a go, or have the courage to get the sexy short cut you were always going to try one day. If you’re considering a hair makeover, come and talk to the expert stylists at Cienté, they’ll help you choose a style to achieve the look you have in mind, and o er some tips that help with your ongoing home haircare, and of course ‘Christmas gifts’. Our friends at Joico, Unite, Philip Martin, and GHD have put together some wonderful hair product gift sets.

Each gift set is beautifully packaged, and contains shampoo, conditioner, and finishing spray, for creating voluminous, wavy, or sleek styles. And if you are left over with a few after Boxing Day, well I’m sure you deserve some more Christmas presents yourself.

The lights will be twinkling up in the streets, as Christmas is hurtling towards us, and the Cienté appointments are filling up fast. If you want to look super stylish throughout the holiday season, and into the New Year, just book the services of a Cienté stylist now.

For more information, call 01442 877273 or visit ciente.co.uk

There’s no better time than Christmas to try out a new hair style, writes the founder of Ciente

INTERIORS

COLOUR WAYS

ANNIE SLOAN

Colour expert Annie Sloan has a firm belief that a new coat of paint is the solution to most problems. It's not too late to upgrade your walls, woodwork or accessories before adorning them with decorations – and her chalk paint requires no priming and very little prep. anniesloan.co.uk

FESTIVITIES HEART OF THE

Entertain at home this Christmas with kitchen advice from Hertfordshire-based Brandt Design

By JULIA STEADMAN

With the cold weather and dark night’s drawing in, the home naturally becomes our

place of warmth and comfort, and as we approach our busiest social season of the year, it makes sense to make sure you have everything in place for a perfect Christmas at home.

Given much of the winter months are spent in the kitchen, have you considered how you plan on preparing, cooking and serving this year’s Christmas dinner with all the trimmings? The latest built-in ovens are an ideal solution if space is limited as they are designed to fit neatly inside dedicated housing alongside kitchen units of the same depth, meaning you have the advantage of floor-to-ceiling storage. You could even opt for a dedicated steam oven for cakes alongside a fan oven for roasts, and when needing to cater to both vegans and meat eaters,

why not consider separate ovens for special dietary requirements so you can please every member of your family!

In contrast, a range cooker o ers up to 30% more cooking space with two or more ovens, selection of hob burners and a grill, which promises a much greater output compared to a conventional oven. Today’s designs will suit both contemporary and more traditional schemes and there’s also plenty of scope for re-conditioning and re-enamelling some models.

At Christmas, seating for your guests is bound to be at the top of your wishlist so that you can enjoy their company while you crack on with the meal. Having an open environment with clear sight lines means that you can enjoy a conversation and others can also lend a hand with food prep. An induction hob ensures safety first in a busy family kitchen complete with a concealed extractor, and a mixture of deep drawers and top units increases storage options without encroaching on social space.

Before you determine the right kitchen layout for you, it might be worth asking yourself a few questions. Do you love to entertain at home? Are you a keen home

chef or is it a necessary chore? How do you prefer to cook and who will you be cooking for? How often do you use your kitchen?

If you love to socialise at home with your friends and family, then err towards a multipurpose island unit or peninsula design, which are designed to accommodate casual dining through to full-scale entertaining. Designs can include practical seating areas, integrated wine coolers so drinks are chilled to the right temperature, generous bar–style countertops and statement extractor fans that work hard to keep your kitchen space free from grease and fumes when cooking. It is also worth thinking about accent lighting, as you will be able to set the mood with a range of di erent LEDs and if you like to cook when entertaining, consider a series of pendant ceiling lights to provide the right amount of targeted light on the island alone.

Practical design is key in a family kitchen environment, so a multi-purpose island unit that caters to di erent needs is going to be your best option. Think about how you can add function. Keen cooks may want to include user-friendly features like integrated chopping boards within the island and interior drawer solutions that organise cutlery and utensils, plus instant hot taps for quick food preparation and hot drinks on demand. If you have a big family, I recommend a double-bowl sink with pull-out rinse, alongside induction hobs that cool down almost instantly and slimline dishwashers for quick, hygienic dishwashing.

If space is at a premium, then an Island Table is the perfect solution as it will provide a dedicated space to sit and dine without the need of a full-sized dining table. To further define the cook zone from the dining area, two-tier designs are creating practical breakfast bars that can be set to the right height for dining, as well as create a recessed area to ensure plenty of legroom and space. If you want to control the flow of your kitchen and avoid potential obstacles, then you can also opt for a Block Island design.

With trends towards multi-generational living, a one-size fits all kitchen is now a thing of the past. Instead, future-proof kitchen design has taken over to ensure the market is able to cater to a growing population that is living longer, marrying later and demanding more from their homes – all year round, whatever the season.

Julia Steadman is the Commercial Director of Brandt Design; brandtdesign.co.uk

“A one-size fits all kitchen is now a thing of the past”

PLANS Grand

Heading inside a wonderful contemporary masterpiece in the heart of St Albans that caught the eye of Kevin McCloud

Of the 300 plus drawings produced for Abbey Orchard House, over 100 were for the interior. These drawings were then turned into reality by an award winning joinery company who specialise in bespoke interiors for luxury homes and yachts throughout the world. The result, as Grand Designs TV show presenter Kevin McCloud commented, is “remarkable and breath-taking”.

Home automation has been seamlessly integrated with this high quality fit out allowing heating, blinds, lights and electrical appliances to be activated and controlled from your phone. The light maple interior gives this large house (approaching 600m2) a cosy feel. And with triple glazing and underfloor heating, no matter what the season your comfort is assured.

After passing through a Japanese gate, the entrance reveals itself. Jasmine trailed over the pergola provides a magical scent as one crosses a stone bridge between flowing water.

You enter through the massive maple double doors and into a 30m glazed atrium that connects the two wings of this remarkable house. The influence of Feng Shui plays its part, as does the strong visual connection with the surrounding landscape. It’s a gorgeous room for gatherings, full of warmth and harmony. Family and friends will be mesmerised by the warm glow that emanates from the massive wood burner that takes centre stage.

And when the mercury rises, the warmth of the wood burner will be replaced with the magnificence of

the gardens that become part of the room simply by opening the massive glazed doors. As Kevin McCloud stated, “this room hits you between the eyes”.

Poggenpohl and the architect combined their respective skills to create a kitchen that is practical and elegant, blending seamlessly with the adjacent dining room. A breakfast area is ideal for food on the go, and a full range of Wolf Sub Zero appliances complete this premium environment.

The double sided wood burner provides ambience for any meal. Combine this with views of the adjacent courtyard, bespoke table, dresser, chairs and lamp fitting and your guests will never want to leave. The engine room of the house, the computer controlled heating and hot water system makes e cient use of heat generated by gas, wood burners and fitted solar panels that endure excellent eco credentials and running costs of this spacious property are kept to a minimum. The snug is a perfect meeting place with seating for ten – this area is located to maximise on the morning light from the east.

Abbey Orchard House doesn't have corridors. Instead these connecting spaces have been designed at double width to allow art or collections to be displayed with space to contemplate.

There is a cinema room with an integrated screen that combines with an Epson HD projector, surround sound system and electronic blackout blinds. The room with blinds up is also an excellent gathering room for children with views up to the Abbey Church. Storage is also a key feature of this room, with ample space to ensure the house is free from clutter.

The Abbey suite bedroom is approximately 30m2 and combines sitting area with bedroom. As one

awakes and activates the electronic blinds, the 11th century Norman tower of the Abbey Church rises dramatically on the hill above. The large glazed doors open onto private verandas that flow onto the orchard planted with a wide variety of fruit trees. A huge range of fitted wardrobes and elegant bathroom complete this stunning bedroom suite.

The River Suite bedroom is similar in size to the Abbey Suite, once again this room combines a sitting area with bedroom – but it's the huge wood burner that makes winter something to look forward to. Summer is also a joy as the huge glass doors glide open to give access to this river side setting and surrounding private gardens. A walk in wardrobe o ers plentiful storage, but it is the bespoke Japanese bath and massive walkin shower that complete this beautiful suite.

This is a remarkable brand-new riverside residence in the heart of this Cathedral city. Abbey Orchard House, whilst new, already has a story to tell. Never previously developed, this huge site (in excess of 2.5 acres) sits close to the Roman town of Verulamium. But it was in medieval times that the fertile site formed part of the Abbey of St Albans. This south facing site grew apples, pears and other fruits of fancy, thus it became known as the Abbey Orchard. Surrounded by substantial detached character houses to the east and west, the River Ver to the south and the majestic Abbey and Cathedral Church of St Albans to the north, the location is unparalleled in the Home Counties. English Heritage oversaw the planning and development of the site and insisted that any building had to be exceptional and blend into this historic and beautiful location. Although five minutes' walk from the centre of St Albans, Abbey Orchard House is discreetly positioned in such a way that it is only visible from the air. Approached through two sets of electronic gates down its own 130 metre private driveway privacy is assured.

Nick Ingle, Head of Savills Harpenden, says: “Abbey Orchard House is a contemporary masterpiece in the heart of the city – undoubtedly one of the most individual and outstanding

architectural houses I’ve had the privilege to be involved with. It’s a piece of art in its own right and the level of craftmanship and attention to detail is second to none.

“The owners have created a truly breathtaking home that combines superior design and bespoke interiors – drawing on Japanese traditions and styles to connect with nature for a wonderfully calming ambience. The location is also unparalleled, discreetly positioned in such a way as to only be visible from the air.”

ABBEY ORCHARD HOUSE

Pondwicks Close, St Albans, has a guide price of £5.95m. For more information contact Savills Harpenden on 01582 465 000 or visit savills.co.uk

“Abbey Orchard House is a contemporary masterpiece”

Making its

Each of Signature Senior Lifestyle’s 36 luxury care homes build care, compassion and companionship with residents and their loved ones and create special communities. O ering 85 luxury studios and one-bedroom apartments and providing tailored assisted living, nursing and dementia care, Signature at Bentley House in Hertfordshire gives true peace of mind, safety and security for residents and their loved ones.

Set in the quaint settings of Hertford, Bentley House delivers award-winning care in luxurious surroundings, with facilities including an in-house spa, salon, library, restaurant, and café to ensure residents enjoy a life well-lived.

Rated as Good by its regulator, the Care Quality Commission, Bentley House has provided residents with kindness and care designed to meet their specific needs, from temporary stays to help rejuvenate and

recover, to more specialised care, including their industry-leading dementia care.

The team sets out a transparent approach through their My Life pathway, expertly developed and delivered in a distinct, comfortable and specialist open dementia care area designed to help residents to live well with dementia while providing peace of mind for their loved ones.

Residents and their loved ones agree, and have shared their stories. A Bentley House resident said: “A most pleasant experience. All the sta greeted me by my name, with a smile and no request was ignored. I was truly amazed at the patience and care given to the disabled residents in wheelchairs by all the sta . Activities varied and were interesting. Keep fit-fun, cinema, and a luxurious nightly change of films. Great!”

Nigel M, a son of a resident, said: “All the sta at Bentley House are very friendly and most welcoming. The facilities are truly excellent and a cut above their rivals. The moving in experience for my mother was seamless and very e cient,

and most importantly, she feels welcome and respected and is becoming part of a community and is now making new friends.”

Bentley House has created a flourishing community which actively supports residents and creates companionship in order to e ectively combat loneliness. This is underpinned by the home’s commitment to supporting residents’ needs and choices through its enriching activities programme to engage each resident in interests which matter to them.

Whether residents wish to enjoy a cherished outing, listen to live music and dance in the comfort of their care home, or take up new hobbies, the Bentley House team makes it happen.

BENTLEY HOUSE

Your Signature story could be just a phone call away. For more information please speak to one of the dedicated Client Liaison Managers, visit signature-care-homes.co.uk/communities or call 01992 721 942

GO LARGE BLOOM

Bloom's Christmas Wreath designs are 100% plastic-free and created using sustainable fl oristry techniques. These expert London fl orists make every single festive wreath by hand. From £155 bybloom.co.uk

A MIXED BUNCH

UNCUT

STEMS

Born from a desire for a more creative, sustainable and educational fl ower subscription that champions real fl owers, Uncut Stems offers a journey through the British growing season from spring blossoms to Christmas wreaths. uncutstems.co.uk

METAL HEAD

ROSE & GREY

Bring the festive season into your home in a more suble way by hanging this stylish metal wreath above your mantlepiece or on a wall. We love the brass fi nish and delicate berry details. £45 roseandgrey.co.uk

WHITE LIGHT COX AND COX

The subtle and elegant Gypsophila Lit Wreath has a simple, round silhouette, a total of 15 steady warm white micro LED bulbs and is adorned in tiny white faux fl owers with a glitter fi nish.£30 coxandcox.co.uk

MASTER CLASS

PETERSHAM NURSERIES

Immersive wreath making masterclass using sustainable fl oristry techniques and Petersham Nurseries’ dramatic fl oristry style take place from 28 November. Book now. petershamnurseries.com

UK HOMELIVING

Marco 2.5 Seater Sofa in Sanded Charcoal £1,995 ukhomeliving.com

PICK

LIGNE ROSET

Souffl ot sofa, from £3,436 ligne-roset-westend.co.uk

ERCOL

Forli Chaise, £3,615 ercol.com

SNUG

The Rebel 3 seater sofa, £1,429 snugsofa.com

Ether Cloud settee, £3,320 sweetpeaandwillow.com

Harry Chesterfi eld sofa, from £2,125 roseandgrey.com

ON

THE COUCH

All the best sofas to sink into over the festive period

By PENDLE HARTE

BORNALDO

Saddle sofa, £3,090 gomodern.co.uk

Velvet Helmsley Snuggle, £2,509 sofasandstuff.com

LOAF

Squisharoo sofa, £1,445 loaf.com

Sereno sofa, from £2,985 theconranshop.co.uk

MADE

Scott sofa, £1,500 made.com

PIET HEIN EEK

Home sofa, from £7,309 scp.co.uk

SOFA.COM

Snowdrop Button Back 2.5 seat sofa, £1,540 sofa.com

SOFAS AND STUFF

ROSE & GREY

JONATHAN ADLER

THE CONRAN SHOP

MICUCCI INTERIORS

Folkifunki Grimace vase, £590 micucci.co.uk

EDITOR’S

PICK

VAISSELLE

Jughead jug, £90 conranshop.co.uk

MARIMEKKO

Karhuemo mug, £14 marimekko.com

REIKO KANEKO FOR SCP

Terracotta jug, £85 scp.co.uk

SWEETPEA & WILLOW

Orca jug, £35 sweetpeaandwillow.com

GLAZE OVER

A look at the loveliest ceramics for Christmas

By PENDLE HARTE

QUINCE AND COOK

Petunia dinner plate, £18 quinceandcook.co.uk

HEAVENLY HOMES AND GARDENS

Rustic washed terracotta vase with handles, £30 heavenlyhomesandgardens.co.uk

HK LIVING

70s bowl on foot, £36 nordicnest.com

THE CURIOUS DEPARTMENT

Insect Mandala tea cup and saucer, £28 thecuriousdepartment.com

Dessert plate, £16 anthropologie.com

ARIANNA DE LUCA

Exclusive vases, from £85 conranshop.co.uk

COX & COX

Ribbed stoneware vase, £60 coxandcox.co.uk

REX LONDON

Moorish Cinnamon fl ower plate, £8.95 rexlondon.com

HOUSE OF HACKNEY

ONE TO REMEMBER

The Remembrance Day service at York House included a special assembly focused on the sounds of the trenches and a talk on why the Last Post is so important to our country’s remembrance events, as well as the unveiling of some unique artwork. For more on the latter, turn to page 89, as well as to read about more from local schools.

york-house.com

CREATIVE CHRISTMAS

This is a special time of year for families, but there’s so much more we can all do to create long-lasting memories

By SUE LAIDLAW

Idon’t know many children who don’t like Christmas. Whether you celebrate as a Christian festival or in a more general celebratory sense, it is, without doubt, a special time of the year. However, it is so easy to get caught up in plans and arrangements, in lists, and in food and presents that you miss some of the simpler (and arguably, more wholesome and worthwhile) aspects of the season. It’s also a wonderful time to build in some interesting and enjoyable family activities and perhaps create new family traditions.

I once read a book, many years ago, about building rituals into your children’s life and that of the family. These can run through the year and can be especially poignant at Christmas. One of ours was, and still is, a ectionately called “BGS” – Big Girl

Supper – each Friday evening throughout the year. Even though our daughters are all now in their twenties, they still come home and ask if we are having BGS and those Friday nights have become a staple of family life. Family traditions that each family may have at Christmas build memories and family strength throughout each child’s life. It’s never too late to add some more and enrich family history forever. When my children were very young, I had a box of seasonal and Christmas books that came out in December and were packed away again at the beginning of January. This was the source of great fun and the opportunity to be reunited with certain special books lasted for many, many years – a bit like remembering the Christmas tree decorations, as they each come out of the box, like old friends every year.

“Family traditions at Christmas build memories and family strength”

There are also endless opportunities for creative activities for all ages and tastes – printing wrapping paper, wrapping parcels, making gift tags… the list goes on and I have no doubt that you have plenty of ideas of your own.

Try to make time for some outdoor activities each day of the holidays. It certainly doesn’t need to be commercial or expensive: collect cones, holly and evergreen and make table centres, or put on your wellies and come back for hot chocolate and mince pies.

Your teenagers will probably be out and about, with friends, at parties and celebrating as well as lying in! Apart from their social lives outside the home, give them some opportunities to get involved (and find the real child within – not the sophisticated teenager). Why don’t you give them free rein of the kitchen for a celebration family meal of their choice. Alternatively, o er them the opportunity to host a dinner party for their friends, give them a budget and an opportunity to plan a menu, decorate the table – and clear up! Perhaps even o er to be waiters for the evening.

Whatever you choose to do, however you choose to celebrate, it’s an important time for each member of the family to enjoy time with friends and family, so let’s encourage each other to look for new, creative ways to share time together. It’s so important to relax and restore before the various routines start up again.

Sue Laidlaw is founder of Laidlaw Education LLP. For 30 years, Sue and her team have o ered educational advice, lessons and courses for children of all ages through their centres, including Laidlaw Hall, a specialist centre for children with Dyslexia and the Laidlaw Virtual Academy. To find out more call 020 8487 9517 or visit laidlaweducation.co.uk

EDUCATION NEWS

Fitting tribute

Local pupils at independent day and boarding school in Bushey, St Margaret’s, paid tribute to the country’s war heroes in a special service for Remembrance Day this year, which took place in the school’s grounds. The service – which also welcomed guest speaker, Lieutenant Colonel Cameron who was commissioned into The Queen’s Royal Hussars in 2003 – involved a thought-provoking assembly and outdoor ceremony.

The school choir sang In Flanders Fields in a beautiful and fitting remembrance tribute, before the whole school made its way out to the front of the building for a commemorative ceremony, where they laid wreaths before observing a two-minute silence in memory of those who lost their lives.

Lara Péchard, Head at St Margaret’s School, says: “It was very moving to see the whole school coming together in honour of this important day. Our pupils listened intently during the service, and we are immensely grateful to Lieutenant Colonel Cameron for taking the time to share his experiences and thoughts with our community.” stmargarets-school.org.uk

HIT FOR SIX

In October Merchant Taylors’ Headmaster, Simon Everson, and a small group of guests gathered to break ground ahead of the construction of the Julian Hill Cricket Centre, a wonderful new facility for the school and wider cricket community including Middlesex CCC and Sunrisers. The new centre will have specified bowling lanes that will replicate the conditions for both spin and seam, a specialist fielding area, video analysis equipment, a viewing gallery and an events space.

Breaking ground alongside the Headmaster were Duncan Eggar, Chairman of Governors, Amanda Hill, sister of Julian, whose gi of £1m to the project helped bring it to this

Artistic intent

Pupils at York House, a local independent prep school on the outskirts of Croxley Green, have paid tribute to British war heroes this Remembrance Day with a unique artwork display to symbolise strength and unity. Pupils at the top of the school were asked to think about what poppies represent on Remembrance Day and to use their creativity to build a collaborative ‘human wreath’ using their own hands as a canvas for the artwork. Elaine Fraser, Head of Art at York House School, explains: “Each pupil worked diligently on their individual designs which were painted onto their hands, before being brought together in a final unified piece to honour those who fought together in the face of adversity.”

york-house.com

point, and MTS Year 9 pupil and Middlesex U13 player, Rishi. Other major donors to the project, school Governors, members of Middlesex CCC staff, representatives from Sports Clubhouses and Boom Construction, and the school’s project team who have driven the project on internally, were all present at the ceremony. development.mtsn.org.uk/cricket-centre

The latest from schools across Hertfordshire

OPERATION SECRET SANTA

Why the Hertfordshire-based Happy Days Children’s Charity truly is a gift to the county

Christmas can be a wonderful time of year, but for many children and families coping with di culties in their lives, it can increase feelings of loneliness and despair which can become incredibly overwhelming. And this year, circumstances with the cost of living crisis are making things even more di cult for families already struggling to cope. But there is help at hand.

This Christmas, Happy Days Children's Charity will again be supporting thousands of brave children with special festive days, giving them a chance to get out, get together, have fun and create memories that last a lifetime.

From panto get-togethers and tales of Christmas past, to winter theme park visits and frosty outward bound pursuits, their festive activities are helping to bring some vital happiness and hope to really brave children right across the UK, at a time when they need it most.

But they need your help to do this. Throughout December, they're once again asking individuals, families, groups and businesses to step up, get involved and join their growing team of Secret Santas helping to make this Christmas one to remember.

There are lots of di erent ideas and ways you can help on Happy Days' Operation Secret Santa on their website, or you might have some great ideas of your own. Whatever you can do, whether with donations,

fundraising ideas, events or gifts-in-kind, they'd really love to hear from you.

Here are a few ways you can help: donate to help fund a special children's panto performance day; make a donation this year instead of your o ce Secret Santa; take part in their Virtual Santa Dash or children can do a March of the Elephants walk; hold a Christmas Jumper Dress Down Day at work; take part in a sponsored Christmas Movie Marathon; or donate Secret Santa Toys to them to pass on to the children they work with.

Help Happy Days bring home the spirit of Christmas this year – it really is an amazing gift to give.

happydayscharity.org/christmasappeal

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