April 2011

NXNW APRIL 2011

NORTH BY NORTHWEST

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT HAMPSTEAD THEATRE

GASTRO

GIRL

THE SWEETEST THING

MEET PRIMROSE HILL’S QUEEN OF THE CUPCAKE

WEDDED BLISS

OUR FASHION SHOOT GOES BRIDAL

CELEBRITY CHEF GIZZI ERSKINE SHARES HER SECRETS

THE MAGAZINE FOR CROUCH END, HAMPSTEAD, HIGHGATE, MUSWELL HILL, PRIMROSE HILL AND SURROUNDING AREAS NXNW COVER APRIL 11.indd 1

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NXNW

CONTENTS

NORTH BY NORTHWEST

APRIL 2011

Wedding Special ES ME O C ID E R R B E H HE T FEATURES 8

12

EDITOR’S PICK

Three things you MUST SEE this month…

 FAMILY

12

GASTRONOMIC GIRL POWER

 HEALTH & BEAUTY

16

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT - HAMPSTEAD THEATRE

Celebrity chef Gizzi Erskine shares her secrets We look at one of London’s most well established venues as Mike Leigh returns to it’s stage

27 WEDDING SUPPLEMENT

All you need for your perfect day

34 WEDDED BLISS

Our fashion shoot goes bridal

50 THE SWEETEST THING

Meet Primrose Hill’s queen of the cupcake

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REGULARS

55

BEHIND THE SCENES

Lowri Turner on her new Muswell Hill clinic

 FASHION  FOOD & DRINK  TRAVEL  INTERIORS  GADGETS  MOTORING  WHAT’S ON  PROPERTY

29/03/2011 17:50

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EDITOR’S LETTER Hello Everyone!

O

k, so we couldn’t resist indulging in the wedding mania currently sweeping the nation... and why not!

Full of the joys of Spring and with a new April bank holiday on the horizon (thanks to royal lovebirds Kate and Will), we’re more than happy to jump on the bridal bandwagon - and we’ve risen to the occasion in suitably memorable style. This month’s mag is a ‘wedded bliss’ special, packed with creative ways for soon-to-be-newlyweds to celebrate their big day. Our belief is that fantastic nuptials shouldn’t be frantic, so kiss goodbye to logistical nightmares and say hello to our amazing wedding supplement - a keep-safe guide full of ideas to help you with the planning process. It’s also crammed full of inspiration for anyone who’s thinking about getting married some time in the future, so bookmark those pages, ladies!

Elsewhere this month we’ve interviewed the lovely, Gizzi Erskine, North London resident, TV presenter and chef. She talks to us about her latest show, Cookery School, and what she loves most about local life (p12).

Our Food Spotlight (p50) sees us ogling the Easter confections at Sweet Things Cakery in Primrose Hill, while our Food Review takes us to Little Bay Restaurant in Farringdon. We also chatted to Lowri Turner about her new clinic rooms in Muswell Hill (p55) and we think you’ll love our What to Wear Wedding fashion page (p33). We’ve also kept our cultural hand in with a historical spotlight (p16) on Hampstead Theatre, following Mike Leigh’s directorial return with a production of Ecstasy.

We’re sure you’ll enjoy our wedding special. A toast to anyone whose big day is approaching; we hope we’ve lent a little helping hand.

Until next month!

Helen Baron helen.baron@zest-media.com

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NXNW NORTH BY NORTHWEST

HAMPSTEAD, HIGHGATE, ST. JOHNS WOOD, HIGHGATE, PRIMROSE HILL, CAMDEN, CROUCH END, MUSWELL HILL AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS

Editor Editorial Assistants

Helen Baron Gemma Billington Cate Sewell

Shoot Coordinator

Frances Park

Beauty Editor

Helen Rance

Feature Writers

Alex Elliott Ruth Sherrington

Head of Design

Ray Searle

Senior Designer

Jim Donald

Production Assistant Photographers

Lauren Giles Dan Williams Colin Streater

Lifestyle Manager Property Manager Senior Account Manager

Leah Day Tara Gentry David Allard

Account Manager

Rochelle Streater

Finance Manager

Alexandra Hvid

Marketing Manager Publishing Director

Jessica Batten Sherif Shaltout

For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com

Subscriptions are available simply by emailing subscriptions@zest-media.com. You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 6 & 12 months, £15 and £25 respectively (purely to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

Zest Media London Studio 202, Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 0QH T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 Zest Media London Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media London Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

www.nxnwmagazine.com

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WHAT’S ON FROM EAST TO NORTH WEST, 10 APRIL

Go London Tours are organising a special tour: hop on a red Routemaster and follow the journey of London’s Jewish community from the Mediaeval City to the Old Jewish East End, the busy West End and finally the quiet suburbs of North West London.

En route, learn about the sites of long-gone shops and synagogues, homes and hospitals as well as those that have remained and many contemporary ones.

The tour ends at the Jewish Museum in Camden.

Golondontours.com, jewishmuseum.org.uk

EDITOR’S PICK LOADED EXHIBITION, RUNS UNTIL 8TH APRIL

HUSSEIN CHALAYAN, ANAESTHETICS

EL ULTIMO GRITO. PHOTO: MICHAEL TOLKE

Loaded is an exhibition of works by Nienke Klunder, El Ultimo Grito, Hussein Chalayan, Jamie Hayon, Studio Makkink & Bey and Karen Ryan. The show has three thematic areas,

Imaginary Landscapes, Cultural Morphing and Modified Utilities, with works spanning both art and design interests, appropriating broad and eclectic references.

Entry is free.

Springprojects.co.uk, Spring Projects, 10 Spring Place, NW5 3BH, 020 7428 7159

© KIM GOTTLIEB-WALKER

Three of the best local things to do this month

BOB MARLEY AND THE GOLDEN AGE OF REGGAE, RUNNING 7TH APRIL UNTIL 15TH MAY

Proud Camden presents this exhibition by celebrated photographer Kim Gottlieb-Walker to mark the 30th anniversary of Bob Marley’s death this May. During 1975 and 1976, Kim, a renowned underground photo-journalist, and her husband, Head of Publicity at Island Records, Jeff Walker, documented what is now widely recognized as The Golden Age of Reggae. Over two years of trips to Jamaica and exclusive meetings in Los Angeles, Kim took iconic photographs of the artists who would go on to define an era and captivate a generation and who brought the reggae sound to the international stage, including Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, Toots Hibbert, Burning Spear, Lee “Scratch Perry” and of course, Bob Marley.

Free Entry, Proud.co.uk, The Horse Hospital, Stables Market, Chalk Farm Rd, NW1 8AH

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VILLAGE NEWS

Village COMMUNITY BOARD

What’s going on in your part of town

SPARKLERS 16 APRIL

A one-off Children’s event suitable for ages 3 – 8, Sparklers is an extravaganza of live music making. Your kids will have lots of fun as birds fly through the air and Steve Grocott, a key member of The Drones, turns his hand to the mandolin, guitar and just about anything else! Two shows at 10:00 and 11:30, shows last 45 mins. £4.50 Concs: £3 Tickets on the door lauderdalehouse.co.uk

PRIMROSE HILL VINTAGE FASHION FAIR 17 APRIL

Spend a leisurely Sunday browsing and buying from the many stalls at the Vintage Fair selling hats, clothes, designer pieces, jewellery and textiles from the 1800s – 1980s. Delicious home-made food and refreshments also available.

Cecil Sharp House, Primrose Hill, London NW1 7AY vintagefashionfairlondon.co.uk

BUNTING: THE CONTEMPORARY HOME (TCH.NET)

NXNW COMPETITION

WIN!!!!!!

EDWARDIAN CAMDEN WALK Tiptoe through the former home and fabulous gardens of Edwardian entrepreneur Lord Leverhulme, founder of the Unilever empire and creator of soap brands Lux and Lifebuoy. The highlight is the Pergola, built using soil excavated from the tunnels of the Northern Line, it was the setting for many a garden party. Golder’s Hill Park. Opening Times: Early April 7:30 – 20:15 April 15th onwards 7:30 – 20:30. The Hill Garden: Early April 8:30 – 18:45 Mid to late April 8:30 – 19:30 visit lovecamden.org/hindsitesedwardian-camden-walk

Sign up to our Facebook page ‘NxNW Magazine’ and you will be entered into the draw to win a complimentary 1/2 hour treatment by selected therapists at Neals Yard Remedies. For every friend you suggest it to, you get an extra entry. Just write on our wall to let us know. We are giving away 4 treatments. Second prize is Organic Beauty sleep concentrate and English rose lipgloss.

MANGA DRAWING CLUB 18 MARCH – 30 JUNE

Come and join this exciting new group at The Wood Green central Library and learn how to draw Manga. Sessions are held every Friday and are suitable for ages 11 to 19. 16:30 – 18:00 Wood Green Central Library 187 – 197A High Road, Wood Green N22 6XD haringey.gov.uk

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Gastronomic Girl Power Helen Baron natters to TV chef, presenter and North London resident, the loveably retro, Gizzi Erskine

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INTERVIEW

T

he list of celebrity chefs seems to be growing at an exponential rate. Partly as a consequence of our national obsession with all things food-related and partly in answer to our unending clamour for new personalities upon whom to turn the media spotlight, the search for the next big thing goes on and on – and the television industry keeps throwing up new stars for our delectation.

As far as food is concerned, the (relatively) new kid on the block is the delightfully chirpy Gizzi Erskine. A thoroughly modern concoction of culinary talent and stylish good looks, she’s a rejuvenating breath of fresh air – the antidote to the powerhungry, blustering male chefs that dominate the market.

Moreover, she’s not quite like any of her few female contemporaries. Forget the slightly stuffier traditions of Delia, the coquettish upper class intonations of Nigella or the more mumsy recipes of, say, Rachel Allen. Gizzi is more fashionable than her predecessors and she was recently crowned Britain’s Sexiest Chef in the annual Kitchen Crumpet Awards (in case you hadn’t heard).

Gizzi (real name Griselda) began her career as a food columnist and stylist, gaining a much-coveted internship at BBC Good Food Magazine.

She was urged by colleagues to film a pilot for Taste Sky, despite her initial protests.

“I ran for the hills at the idea of being on telly at first; I was quite shy.” She illustrates the point by recalling that she was also asked to read a poem at her sister’s wedding that year and turned down the opportunity. “I don’t think I felt ready,” she continues, “I had only been out of catering school [Gizzi studied at the Leith Cookery School] for two months.” But she couldn’t be happier with how the pilot turned out. In fact, combining cooking and presenting suddenly

seemed like the perfect way to make a living, and Gizzi went on to present three series of Cook Yourself Thin. The show spawned an accompanying cookery book and Gizzi was soon offered the post of resident chef on This Morning – plus a further book release, the kitschy and cool Kitchen Magic.

Despite the ease with which she seems to have taken to her new profession, I get the sense that Gizzi feels humbled by her success. The impression she gives is of a young woman who is amazed and grateful

just to have the chance to have a go.

“Ultimately, I wanted to write, and putting out books is ideal – but I absolutely love the TV work. I guess it’s more social really – I enjoy working with the crew and seeing a project develop from script to edit.”

She goes on to tell me what great fun This Morning has been – she feels she has benefitted massively from being part of a team and working closely with the show’s producers,

many of whom are female and her own age. Impressively, Gizzi has now won the role of co-presenter for Channel 4’s Cookery School alongside Michelin-starred chef Richard Corrigan. The show aims to turn ordinary cooks into great chefs, revealing the tricks of the trade along the way, and Gizzi is tangibly effusive about the job.

“It’s just brilliant,” she says, “it’s exactly what I want to be doing and I’m learning so much teaching the general public how to cook. Richard is a genius and truly inspiring.”

I’m interested to know what a typical day is like for a chef-cum-rising TV star? Of course, it varies. “Some days are set aside for promos or dress fittings [as we speak, plans are afoot for her appearance at the National Television Awards], other days I’m filming or developing in the kitchen.

I spend a lot of hours in the supermarket!” So she still spends a large amount of time in the kitchen?

“Completely!” she says emphatically, “Cooking is what I love to do.”

She goes on to share with me her own shopping secrets. Living in the North London area, she enthuses about the local Fresh and Wild store, though for more general shopping she goes to Waitrose in Islington.

Her fish is sourced online at fishforthought. com and she can’t get enough of The Ginger Pig, a traditional butcher’s shop in Victoria Park Village, Hackney. A big fan of Asian cuisine, she adds that she heads into China Town for authentic Chinese ingredients. We exchange tips on good places to eat nearby and natter away like old chums about good deals to be had in the area. (I tell her about Pizza East’s Meatball Tuesdays and she is aghast that this information has previously passed her by; we go on 13

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INTERVIEW

to bond over our love for the Shoreditch pizzeria.)

“I love Afghan Kitchen on Upper Street,” she continues.

“I love the Ocakbasi restaurants on Stoke Newington’s High Street; I love St John’s Pantry in Clerkenwell, Morgan M’s in North London and The Eagle gastro pub.” We could be here a long time. If it wasn’t clear before, it is now: Gizzi has a passion for eating as much as for cooking.

I then ask her what I should cook for a forthcoming dinner party I’m holding (filling her in on the thrice yearly Come Dine with Me competition my friends and I have begun). I warn her that I’m still finding my way in the kitchen, but she has plenty of good advice to give me.

“Ditch the starter entirely, go to a deli – make the trip to a Lebanese on Edgware Road – and invest in some smoked aubergine puree, tzatziki, some nice bread and olives.” There follows some further explanation of the virtues of good dip: “For me, food is not about being overly fancy; it’s not about pretence: it should be sociable. There’s no point doing a dinner party if you’re holed away in the kitchen for its entirety. This starter makes for good grazing.”

Gizzi tells me she is going through a ‘slow-cook’ phase, so for a main she suggests “I bung something in the oven”, to allow me to prepare something beforehand. Recently, she’s turned her attention to slow-roasted shoulder of lamb (the leftovers can be curried) and steak béarnaise with the chips slowly cooked underneath in meat dripping. Lastly, pudding can be made a day in advance – she would opt for a good old-fashioned crumble.

I wonder where her gastronomic inspiration comes from, and she tells me that she travelled widely in Asia

play it down. “All my clothes have holes in, my shoes are scuffed. My style is informed by rockabilly and music. I just love vintage clothes, I’m not trying to be fashionable. I hope people embrace it.” She can be as humble as she likes, the fact remains: not many chefs DJ on the side and have a penchant for ‘60s psychogarage and The Libertines.

Gizzi’s retro beehives and vintage fashion sense are already making her an emblem of cute ‘50s domesticity and she has been described by some as a young Nigella – but she balks at the idea of being a domestic goddess. “Not by any means!” she exclaims. “I’m not representative of homemaking at all – my boyfriend is always telling me I need to be more tidy… I can just cook!”

So food, not fashion, is her first love. When I ask her if she’d rather splash the cash on a designer dress or eat at a fancy restaurant, her answer is unequivocal: “Oh, eat every time! The most I spend on a dress is £30!”

It would seem that Gizzi Erskine takes her job seriously. Before we part, she talks of the fellow chefs that she admires. “Fanny Craddock was awesome – just so bananas! Heston [Blumenthal] for his brain, Richard [Corrigan] is like a walking encyclopaedia…“ She seems not to notice that she has brought something new to the table, something all her own – fun, flair and a wholly original take on the concept of Girl Power. I’ve no doubt she’ll be gracing our screens, writing books and showing us how to chow down in style for some time to come. 

“I RAN FOR THE HILLS AT THE IDEA OF BEING ON TELLY AT FIRST; I WAS QUITE SHY.” as a youngster. As such, she is most confident cooking in the Asian style and enjoys the healthy benefits of that particular cuisine. But it’s not just the years she spent globetrotting that inspire her.

“I’m really into art,” she offers, “I think that comes out in my cooking.”

Indeed, before she graduated from catering school, she made ends meet working as a body piercer in a tattoo parlour in Camden. Which leads to my next point, because, as is evident when you take a look at her appearances in the media, Gizzi’s sense of style has endeared her to a younger, more fashion-savvy audience. I wonder if she feels that her unique image has added to her appeal as a chef – but she seems to

Catch the last few episodes of Cookery School on Channel 4 this

month.

Kitchen Magic is available at amazon.co.uk

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AREA SPOTLIGHT

HAMPSTEAD THEATRE

Words: GEMMA BILLINGTON

Hampstead Theatre is one of London’s most well-established venues, famous for launching the careers of serious acting and writing talent. 2011 sees Edward Hall take the helm as the theatre’s new Artistic Director – as well as Mike Leigh’s return with a play that debuted at the theatre over thirty years ago...

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HAMPSTEAD THEATRE’S NEW ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, EDWARD HALL

PIC: HELEN MAYBANKS

estled in the plush vicinity of Swiss Cottage and Belsize Park, Hampstead Theatre is set idyllically in a new development overlooking the park, water feature and restored leisure facilities. Known for championing new works and kick-starting the careers of budding actors and playwrights, the theatre has also seen famous faces such as Ewan McGregor, Jude Law and Maureen Lipman take to its stage. The career of world-renowned, award-winning director and writer Mike Leigh is woven into the history of Hampstead Theatre, which has played host to five of his plays, including the acclaimed Abigail’s Party in 1977. A couple of years later, Ecstasy premiered at Hampstead and this year marks Leigh’s first ever return to a past piece of work.

Having celebrated 50 years in operation in 2009, Hampstead Theatre is no doubt one of the capital’s most prominent and prestigious fringe theatre venues. However, this hasn’t always been the case. The theatre’s beginnings are relatively humble. The Hampstead Theatre Club, as it was originally known, started life in a Scout hall in 1959. Upon moving to its current Swiss Cottage home in 1962, the theatre stayed in a

portable cabin for over 40 years until the large-scale redevelopment of its neighbourhood in the early noughties.

Architecture firm Bennetts Associates took on the task of transforming the portacabin into a building worthy of such an establishment; interesting, given the fact that the practice had not designed a theatre before. Also intriguing is that it would be the first free-standing theatre to be built in London since the National Theatre in 1975. The end result, completed in 2003, is a deceptively modest timber box housing a grand three-storey zinc ‘drum’ auditorium designed with flexibility in mind: the auditorium can accommodate between 150 and 325 people and its workings reflect the theatre’s policy of producing contemporary plays. The forestage can be raised or lowered to allow for an orchestra pit, the main section of the

stage can be manoeuvred to change the relationship between performers and audience, and the stage also contains removable sections. This gives the theatre and the creative team the freedom to experiment with different levels of scale and intimacy.

A contemporary and impressive - yet unimposing - building, Hampstead Theatre shuns the West End’s showy grandeur and embodies the company’s dedication and commitment to producing new talent. In Autumn 2010 – the same time Edward Hall joined as Artistic Director – ‘Hampstead Downstairs’ opened in the Michael Frayn Space. This was set up as an investigative area for new projects and experimental work designed to push boundaries and explore new ground.

It is this aspect of Hampstead Theatre, this training and supporting of the next generation of theatre-makers, that makes it unique. With a particular emphasis on encouraging young talent,

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PIC: ALASTAIR MUIR

SPOTLIGHT

Hampstead Theatre holds writing competitions and free drama workshops with Camden Summer University and also offers various work placements to inspire and inform young people via its Creative Learning programme.

Hampstead Theatre’s inhouse youth company, Heat&Light, is made up of budding performers, writers, directors, and technicians aged from ten to 25, and produces a number of plays each year. It is clear that there is a real focus on discovering and developing talent in all aspects of theatre work, and the new year has ushered in a rejuvenated programme that should excite theatrelovers throughout the capital.

Under the direction of Edward Hall an established director in his own right and perhaps best known as founder of the all-male Shakespeare production company Propeller - the theatre keeps going from strength to strength.

“I was bowled over to be given responsibility for Hampstead Theatre,” Hall says, “which is unquestionably one of the finest theatres in the UK.” With obvious enthusiasm, he outlines the venue’s forthcoming plans, saying that “The calibre of the writers and

ABOVE: ATHOL FUGARD BELOW: ONE OF MIKE LEIGH’S ORIGINAL PLAYS ‘ECSTASY’

directors we have secured speaks for itself. There really is something for everyone and I look forward to the journey we are now embarking on.”

The new season welcomes leading voices in theatre as well as some of today’s rising stars. The addition of Mike Leigh enticed an audience of theatre buffs and novices alike. Perhaps more famous nowadays for his films, Leigh has crafted a unique and very ‘British’ style that is all his own. From the emotionally searing and Oscar-nominated Vera Drake to the upbeat Happy-Go-Lucky and the more recent critical smash AnotherYear, Leigh’s trademark improvised style character-driven narratives born from (almost) script-free direction - has made him one of movieland’s most acclaimed auteurs. His play Ecstasy,

which ran at the Hampstead Theatre throughout March, is set in 1979 after the Winter of Discontent, on the brink of the Thatcher era, and follows the lives of six people in a Kilburn bedsit. The original production was the first in a continuing collaboration with Stephen Rea and Jim Broadbent, who both starred in the play. A success on its debut in 1979, the production has enjoyed a recent new lease of life with sold-out performances.

Edward Hall’s season has also included the self-directed piece, Enlightenment, about a young man who disappears on a back-packing holiday, and the upcoming Belongings by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm, which explores the return of a young female soldier from Afghanistan.

Celebrating the medium of the theatre through its commitment to developing new work and producing engaging, powerful stories both classic and contemporary, Hampstead Theatre is a ground-breaking establishment whose role in shaping and nurturing great British theatre is clear. Here’s to the next fifty years... ■ Hampstead Theatre, Eton Avenue, Swiss Cottage, NW3 3EU 020 7449 4200 hampsteadtheatre.com 17

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STUDDED YUMMY ZIP-UP HOODIE Not signed up for a Zumba® class yet? It’s time to ditch the workout and join the party! For those of you hooked on the hugely successful Latin inspired dance-fitness craze, why not kit yourself out appropriately? This hoodie is comfy, practical and fabulous! £45 zumba.com

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GARMIN EDGE 500 BIKE GPS WITH HEART RATE MONITOR The GPS-enabled Edge® 500 is small, lightweight and ideal for sharpening your cycling performance.

Simple to use, the Edge 500’s high-sensitivity GPS receiver has HotFix™ satellite prediction to calculate your position faster; tracking your speed, distance, location and elevation. £187 amazon.co.uk

FEELING GOOD... this month, with the latest tips and trends

ADIDAS MICOACH PACER MiCoach is an interactive training system which will inspire and motivate athletes to reach their individual training goals. Every runner is different and every heart is unique. This is why miCoach uses heart rate zones to create personalised workouts and with real time audio coaching, it’s like having your own personal coach with you on every run. £123 shop.adidas.co.uk

DAVINA MCCALL 2 IN 1 CROSS TRAINER & EXERCISE BIKE Fitness Queen Davina McCall has launched a brand-new range of keep fit equipment through Argos, designed to help you get in shape and feel great. There’s no need to even leave your living room! £179.99 argos.co.uk

TENPILATES CLASSES Welcome to the world of Tenpilates. Like traditional Pilates, it’s designed to engage and strengthen your core waist and lower back muscles, helping to improve posture and prevent injury. Unlike traditional Pilates however, it also delivers an intense and highly effective fullbody workout designed to give you a slimmer figure and lean, toned muscles; fast. For price information see tenpialtes.com

TOP TIP: EAT MORE GINGER! WELL KNOWN FOR HELPING WITH DIGESTIVE PROBLEMS, RESEARCH SUGGESTS THAT GINGER ALSO HAS ANTIINFLAMMATORY, ANTIOXIDANT AND EVEN CANCER FIGHTING PROPERTIES 19

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TRAVEL

WHAT’S HOT GOING UP

Mad Men Those ad men of Manhattan have got us hooked. More drama unfolds as we move into the exciting fifth series...

Rihanna Not even Gaga can top this woman’s pop reign - she really is the only girl in the world. Keep those hits coming!

The Gaymer’s Camden Crawl Let festival season commence! The Camden Crawl opens 30th April and this year sees a headline performance from electronic pop pioneers St. Etienne.

Flat White Coffees Give us coffee and no one gets hurt. We love how the milk swirls in a flat white.

Creamy perfection.

GOING DOWN

Dancing on Ice The poor man’s Strictly Come Dancing, paltry selection of so-called celebrities included. We’d rather go out out than have to stay in to watch this over-sequined affair.

Dull as dishwater!

Concerts for Gaddafi Okay, Beyoncé/Mariah/Nelly Furtado, we accept you didn’t know the performance was for a bloodthirsty dictator’s family until you got there. But surely it must have occurred to you at some point since? And it took you until now to feel ashamed...?!

John Galliano Well, you’ve let everybody down John; but mostly you’ve let yourself down.

Vitamin Waters We’re not convinced...do these really give us the vits we need? They don’t cure a hang-over either! (Believe us, we’ve tried.)

WHAT’S NOT

TRAVEL LOG:

CHINA

I

t’s one of those things which is almost as daunting as it is exhilarating. After a long drive through the Chinese countryside, a very long game of ‘who will see it first’, and more than one false alarm, it’s here. Initially, it’s not the looming wonder we expect it to be (more a smattering of history on the green hills around us). But as we draw closer to the start of our 8km trek, the wall starts to take shape, and it’s the thing of our childhood daydreams. No, we can’t see it from the moon, but why would you need to?

Thousands of Mongol warriors scream in the throes of battle; the sound of horse hooves on stone is deafening; arrows fall like a black swarm from the sky. Not today, of course, but the Great Wall of China evokes such vivid images that it’s easy to picture, when you’re standing gazing at that winding mass of thousands of years of toil, death, warfare and glory, that you are a part of the Qin empire.

The trek is hard (this is the only original part of the Great Wall in Beijing province that you can walk on), the stairs are steep, the wind is cold, and you’d better hold on tight when crossing those crumbling parapets because it’s a long way down. But when you’re one of only seven people for miles around, the sun is shining on your wind blown face, you make it up to the top of the final and steepest staircase, you can collapse with the most amazing view in the world. As the autumn sun begins to set, the light falling golden on the copper leaves on the ground, you realise that you’ll probably never see this again. After this, it’s back to the slightly subdued mayhem of Beijing, with its street scorpions, incredible acrobatics, and Chairman Mao watches. But for now, you take a breath of clear, crisp air and are thankful to have experienced this centuries old piece of architecture for yourself.

Bec McKernan travelled on Intrepid Travel’s 9 day China Express trip from Beijing to Shanghai costing £750 (excluding international flights). If you’re feeling like a challenge, Intrepid are offering up to 25% off their Active style trips for all bookings made in April.

For an Asia or Active adventures brochure visit Intrepid Travel, 76 Upper St, Islington N1 0NU, call 020 7354 6169 or visit intrepidtravel.com 21

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HEALTH &BEAUTY 452.pf_AngelAd6.1_col_1:452.pf_AngelAd2_col_1

15/2/08

11:12

Page

MARATHON PREPARATION Sean Curry from The London Orthopaedic Clinic gives his expert advice on your questions in the ‘run-up’ to the Virgin London Marathon I’ve just taken up running but I only have my flimsy old trainers to run in. Are there benefits to ‘high tec’ running shoes and am I at risk of damaging my feet and ankles by running in my old trainers?

I wouldn’t recommend running in flimsy old trainers or old trainers of any type. After a while, the cushioning effect of any pair of trainers is lost and you do risk harming your feet by running in inadequate shoes. Remember, high tec doesn’t have to mean high cost.

YOU’RE AS YOUNG AS YOUR SPINE IS FLEXIBLE “If, at the age of 30, you are stiff and out of shape, you are old. If, at 60, you are supple and strong, then you are young.”

Joseph Pilates Get a stronger back, a flatter stomach and a suppler, younger body at our stunning studio

020 7288 8080

islington@pilatescentral.co.uk www.pilatescentral.co.uk 10-12 Gaskin St (off Upper St) London N1 2RY

Superb teachers. Superb facilities. Superb location.

I’m about to run the marathon for the first ever time. I’m a 50 year old female and slightly overweight. I’m worried about damaging my knees and my friends are suggesting I see my GP for a ‘full body MOT’ to ensure I am not at risk before beginning training. Do you agree?

Your GP will be able to give you general advice on exercise but most GPs will not have the expertise or the time to properly check you out. Unless you have a GP with an interest in sports medicine I would recommend an assessment by a suitably qualified sports physician.

I was recently diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my hip and am hoping to run the Marathon this year for the third time. Should I make any changes to my training regime or technique taking my diagnosis into account?

I would recommend adjusting your training to minimise impact.

Endurance training can be done in the pool, on an exercise bike or on a cross-trainer. If you feel the need to run, do it on a treadmill rather than on a hard road. Your hip will thank you for it.

Mr Curry is a skilled consultant orthopaedic surgeon from The London Orthopaedic Clinic.

The clinic is now working in new facilities in Golders Green. For more information call 020 7186 1000 or visit www.londonorthopaedic.com

Randa Musmar

Makeup & Beauty Consultant

07794 299 781

www.eyecandylondon.co.uk info@eyecandylondon.co.uk

22

LONDON ORTHOPAEDIC EDIT Half Page.indd 22

29/03/2011 22:50

HEALTH &BEAUTY

Tried & Tested

PUT YOUR FACE ON

Rochelle Streater discovers the rejuvenating powers of Microdermabrasion...a perfect ‘lunchtime’ procedure with no downtime!

I

had been following my cleanse - tone - moisturise regime, and a regular plan for facials…I had bought face scrubs and yet never seemed to achieve that glowing look I find in magazines…What was the secret? I believe I have found it at GiGi London-MA! I have to admit I prefer pampering to pain…and when I heard I was about to try out a painless microdermabrasion treatment that is a ‘lunchtime’ procedure with NO downtime…my natural response was: Bring it on!

At GiGi London-MA microdermabrasion is offered using natural salt and I understand it is used widely by celebrities (along with, I imagine, a whole host of others) to help maintain a fresh and flawless appearance in the face of punishing daily schedules. The night before my consultation at GiGi London-MA, I realised I knew next to nothing about microdermabrasion. So, I did the mandatory googling for this unique Salt Microdermabrasion along with a Diode Light. The process uses suction and grain to remove the topmost layer of dead skin cells, revealing fresh skin and thereby enhancing the production of collagen (there’s the magic word: the coveted skin tightener, the main constructive protein found in animal connective tissue). It is by all accounts, a quick and easy way to yield a great result. I could see that many clinics use synthetic resources (which lowers the cost to businesses by a considerable amount) to achieve the grain affect that exfoliates the skin. But synthetic materials can trigger negative reactions or redness the day after treatment.

GiGi London-MA use only natural salt in the process, which also has cleaning

properties - killing bacteria and leaving the skin more open to absorb vitamins.

WOW! So what was the diode light? I googled, understood a little but soon began to realise, I was going to the right place and was placing my beauty care in the safest hands.

My consultation with Dr Rupal highlighted the difference between a family-run medical aesthetics clinic and the new ‘factory run’ ones. Whilst it was obvious to me that Dr Rupal was a very experienced doctor of cosmetic medicine, I found her manner warm, friendly and approachable. My consultation was not rushed and the doctor was happy to answer the endless questions I wanted to ask. We talked through the treatment and carried out a spot test on my hand. I was amazed at how natural the treatment felt and the wealth of medical conditions it can be used to combat: acne, scarring, stretch-marks, fine lines around the eyes, wrinkles, blemishes, age spots, uneven skin tone as well as giving skin a radiant glow. It can also be used to improve skin on the face, arms, tummy, and thighs! Whilst 33,000 people google microdermabrasion each month in the UK, I wondered how many knew about my latest discovery?

After I found out that my skin was treatment-compatible, I was excited to get started. Dr Rupal got straight to work cleansing my skin. I could literally feel the suction working it’s miracles on me. It felt extremely satisfying to be able to lay back and take ten minutes out of my day, to rejuvenate my skin. Following a second cleanse, my face was moisturised and felt incredibly airy and light...and there was no sign of a blemish-surge afterwards. GiGi offer RejuvaLight®

Red & Blue Diode Light Therapy straight after microdermabrasion. The blue light is used to penetrate the skin’s surface layers, destroying bacteria in sweat pores and glands, helping prevent the outburst of blemishes that can sometimes occur after using a face scrub. It also increases skin’s elasticity, plumping it while reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

After being asked how much longer I had left of my lunch break, I was placed under the light for 10 mins in a dark room; I felt completely relaxed and after nearly falling asleep, my treatment was up!

I returned to the office feeling fresh and ready and able to take on what the rest of the day had to throw at me.

If there’s one lunchtime treatment to indulge in, it’s this. It’s an express ticket to clear skin and a perfect complexion. My skin felt smoother and more even toned; the next time I used face-wash I felt it glide over my face more easily. I’ve also now heard about the new Indiba treatment. I know everyone is talking about high frequency to get that summer bikini figure….and look great in low waisted jeans! I have booked my consultation and first session for that too!!  gigilondon-ma.com Colebrooke House, Clinic Central, 10-12 Gaskin St, N1 2RY 0207 227 0001 Sujata Naik, Director 07772 888 831 23

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Now practising in the Golders Green area • Hip and Knee Unit • Spine and Pain Unit • Shoulder and Elbow Unit • Hand and Wrist Unit • Foot and Ankle Unit Roman House, 296 Golders Green Road, London NW11 9PY t: 020 7186 1000 f: 020 7084 6999 e:info@londonorthopaedic.com

267 UPPER STREET ISLINGTON N1 2UQ 020 7226 1865

HAIRSTYLISTS ATTENTIVE CARE WITHIN A STYLISH, FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE

MONDAY TO WEDNESDAY 10.00 - 6.15 THURSDAY TO FRIDAY 10.00 - 7.00 SATURDAY 10.00 - 5.30 SUNDAY 11.00 - 5.00

BioSculpture/London Ortho.indd 1

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HEALTH &BEAUTY

CLINIQUE LASH POWER LONGWEARING FORMULA FOR CRUMBLE AND FLAKE-FREE LASH VOLUME! £15, CLINIQUE.CO.UK

MAC STROBE CREAM

YVES SAINT LAURENT GLOSS VOLUPTE 8. ESTÉE LAUDER DOUBLE WEAR LIPSTICK WITH UP TO 12 HOUR OF STAYING POWER, DOUBLE WEAR IS THE BEST OF THE BEST FOR KEEPING YOUR LIPS VIBRANT AND MOISTURISED ALL DAY LONG. A SMUDGE FREE LIPPIE THAT WON’T BUDGE - SO NO EMBARRASSING LIP STAINED WINE GLASSES! £17, HOUSEOFFRASER.CO.UK

GIORGIO ARMANI FLUID MASTER PRIMER THIS PROVIDES A SILKY, SECOND SKIN UNDER YOUR FOUNDATION, CREATING THE ILLUSION OF FLAWLESS SKIN. £33, SELFRIDGES.COM

A LITTLE OF THE STROBE CREAM UNDER YOUR FOUNDATION AS A MAKE-SHIFT HIGHLIGHTER ON THE CHEEKBONES WILL GIVE YOU A GLOW WITHOUT CAUSING THE DREADED FLASHBACK IN PHOTOS. £21.50, MACCOSMETICS.CO.UK

Sssshhhh!

DANIEL SANDLER WATERCOLOUR BLUSH A LIQUID BLUSH THAT SETS ON YOUR CHEEKS WITHIN SECONDS. £14.50, LOOKFANTASTIC.COM

ALL DAY LONG

The best long-wear make up to keep you touch-up free all day – essential for Brides-to-be!

CLARINS SHINE STOPPER POWDER COMPACT A SUPER LIGHT POWDER THAT HAS ULTRA-ABSORBING PROPERTIES TO KEEP YOUR SKIN SHINE FREE. £24, UK.CLARINS.COM

CA APRIL 11 Beauty Product.indd 25

ORIGINS QUICK, HIDE! LONG-WEARING CONCEALOR A LONG-WEARING, HEAT AND SWEAT RESISTANT CONCEALOR. £12, ORIGINS.CO.UK

BOBBI BROWN LONG-WEAR CREAM SHADOW CREAM FORMULATION MEANS THIS WON’T BUDGE OR CREASE AND KEEPS THE SAME AMOUNT OF INTENSITY ALL DAY LONG. £16.50, SELFRIDGES.COM

SMASHBOX BROW TECH THIS KIT COMES WITH A POWDER TO MATCH YOUR HAIR COLOUR AND A COLOURLESS WAX TO KEEP ANY STRAYS IN PLACE FOR THE DAY. £18, DEBEHAMS.COM

GUERLAIN PRECIOUS LIGHT REJUVENATING ILLUMINATOR ERASE AWAY THE YEARS WITH A MAGIC GOLDEN GLOW! THE ILLUMINATOR AWAKENS THE SKIN YOUTHFULNESS WHILE BANISHING ALL SIGNS OF FATIGUE AND THE AGGRAVATIONS OF TIME - KEEPING YOU FRESH FACED ALL DAY. £28, HOUSEOFFRASER.CO.UK

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28/03/2011 17:45

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Intrepid April 11.indd 1

25/03/2011 13:25

in association with

Wedding

YOUR

SU PPL E M EN T

3 historical london of the best

venues

EXPERT TIPS

For planning your special day

Here comes theBride & Grandeur elegance at RIBA

TO LOVE & TO CHERISH

The best wedding jewellery

WEDDING DRESSES GIFT IDEAS BEAUTY FLOWERS JEWELLERY HEALTH VENUES INSPIRATION CA APRIL 11 - WEDDING SUPPLEMENT COVER.indd 52

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Wedding

YOUR

SU PPL E M EN T

O

EDITOR’S LETTER

ur supplement this month is rather dear to my heart, as I myself got engaged at Christmas last year. Putting together our wedding issue has been so much fun and incredibly helpful in helping me gather ideas for my big day. I hope it proves as handy for all the other brides-to-be out there.

The most important thing to organise for a wedding is, of course, the location. Any ideas about decorative schemes, dresses and flowers (among other things) will probably stem from the architectural styling of the venue - and it can be surprisingly hard to find a place that really strikes a chord. All too often wedding locations can seem stuffy or corporate or formal, but editing this supplement has schooled me in some of the more unique London spaces for hire – and having come to my engagement with a rather open mind (no preconceived plans, no much-imagined big white wedding since the age of twelve), I’ve really enjoyed finding out more about the characterful, colourful venues out there.

In our supplement you’ll find tips and advice from top London wedding planner Mark Niemierko, beautiful gift and jewellery ideas as well as the all-important venue round-up. The magazine itself is also bridal-themed, with long-wear make up suggestions and a ‘What to Wear’ wedding fashion page, as well as a feature spotlight on the best historical venues in the local area - some of which you may never have heard of before.

We hope you’ll love this wedding special as much as we’ve loved putting it together, and we hope it serves you on your way to a chic and unique wedding. All our best to every couple planning for the day itself. See you on the other side!

Helen Baron helen.baron@zest-media.com

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CA APR 11 WEDDING EDS LETTER.indd 4

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WEDDING PLANNER

Q&A

ALRIGHT ON THE NIGHT Stay on track with your wedding plans with Mark Niemierko’s expert tips and advice…

HOW DID YOU GET INTO WEDDING PLANNING? I worked in TV and film production from an early age. I enjoyed the organisational element, working on PR and events.

Obviously that kind of background is good practice for wedding planning – you run things like a military operation; there’s no room for error! I had a grand plan to start an events company with a wedding branch, but weddings just took off. When I started the company, wedding planning wasn’t being done that well in London.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN THINGS INVOLVED IN PLANNING A WEDDING FOR A CLIENT? Everything! The main thing is getting on well with clients and being adaptable.

I don’t think you can love the job for the sake of loving it or do it purely for financial gain. You have to want to do it.

WHAT’S THE MOST DIFFICULT THING TO ORGANISE? There’s no one thing; there are difficult elements. It’s not so enjoyable working with clients who don’t share your mind-set or unprofessional suppliers. I also really dislike working with bad service; trying to teach people how to give 5-star service… is basically teaching people how to do their jobs properly! This quite often applies to venues that, surprisingly frequently, don’t understand how important service is.

TELL US ABOUT THE CRAZIEST WEDDING YOU’VE ORGANISED… There’s so many! They’re all individual.

I did once have to plan a wedding in two days; the bride was flying in from South Africa on the day of the wedding, there was no dress, so she had to try things on in the morning in her hotel suite! It just goes to show you can do a wedding with very little notice.

WEDDING COSTS CAN ESCALATE WILDLY: WHAT ARE YOUR TOPTIPS FOR SAVING MONEY? I would say just really think about your own personal tastes as a couple. Don’t try to be something you’re not. If you’re a foodie pair, have a reception in a restaurant for example. What tends to happen is that couples find themselves doing things in a formulaic way rather than a personal one. If you like drinking and socialising, spend at the bar instead of on sugar almonds! Don’t throw a wedding for 150 people if you’d really rather something more intimate. You don’t have to have a band playing just because its traditional, you can do whatever you want! It’s less about saving money and more about spending wisely.

AND TIPS FOR THE DAY IN GENERAL? Be relaxed! Obviously, don’t leave > 29

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WEDDING SPECIAL < anything until the day itself – you don’t want to be doing the seating plan on the morning of the wedding. The most you want to be thinking about on the day is when to open a bottle of champagne. And if something does go wrong and you haven’t got a planner sorting it for you, let it be. You can’t control everything, so enjoy your big day!

IF YOU HAD A CLIENT FOR WHO TIME AND MONEY WERE NO OBJECT, WHAT KIND OF WEDDING WOULD YOU PLAN? For me, it’s not about that. The couple are at the core of what I do, so it’s not about what I want to plan. I’ve been asked to take complete control on occasion but my aim is to make a wedding personal to the couple. Even if I have a limitless budget, I don’t want to wade in with a load of crazy ideas for the sake of it.

When a couple aren’t so forthcoming about what they want, I have to draw it out of them. What era do they like? What colours? What flowers? What food? I know immediately from the details they give me which suppliers to go to.

I also like to break the day into ‘acts’. I hate going to a ceremony when you can see the band getting ready at dinner; I think its better to break the day up – maybe go to a different room for dessert or dancing, to keep the excitement and keep the guests guessing a little.

You plan logistically first and then get creative. Often I’ll do a walk-through at a venue and get ideas for colours, furniture and lighting etc.

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE VENUE? Venue is crucial. You can’t plan anything without a venue. Not the lighting, the flowers or the band. It all depends on the staging, the space, a late licence etc. And you can’t send the invitations out without deciding that first. It’s important as a planner to point out the pros and cons of a particular venue to clients. If you want dancing, you might not be able to work with a small country house.

OF ALL THE VENUES YOU HAVE WORKED WITH, WHAT HAS IMPRESSED YOU MOST? The Dorchester hotel, for all-out wow.

It’s an obvious choice but its renowned for its good service. You don’t want your guests waiting for champagne – if service is bad no one will notice how lovely the flowers are! The Dorchester has variety; for a 20 person wedding, there’s The Penthouse and Pavilion Suite, for a classic elegant couple there’s The Orchid Rooms for 120 guests, for 400 guests you’ve got The Ballroom and if you’re ultra contemporary there are The Crystal Rooms. The Dorchester has venues within venues! The rooms and spas are convenient too.

I also like Kensington Palace Orangery, the Banqueting House at Whitehall, One Marylebone and One Mayfair and I must mention Claridge’s too.

ANY QUIRKY VENUES LONDONERS MIGHT NOT HAVE HEARD OF BEFORE? We did a wedding at the Louise Blouin Foundation in Ladbroke Grove; it’s a gallery and a real blank canvas so you can have a lot of fun there. Number Sixteen is a small hotel in South Kensington with a secret garden - perfect for something very intimate.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PERSONAL TOUCHES A COUPLE CAN ADD TO MAKE THEIR BIG DAY SPECIAL? Overall the day should be a reflection of the couple. Throw in your favourite cocktail. If you like fast food, serve hamburgers in the evening. We’ve even thrown in Christian Dior dressing tables in bedroom suites before so lady guests can treat themselves to Dior products; they were also given silk nighties with their initials sewn into the pocket. I like the subtle touches – a newspaper delivered to everyone’s room on the morning of the wedding, wrapped in a ribbon bearing the couple’s name for example - nothing too in your face.

LASTLY, WHAT WOULD YOU DO FOR YOUR OWN WEDDING? I wouldn’t do a sit-down dinner. I’d do an intimate ceremony, earlier in the day, maybe with a lunch for 20 people and then later in the evening a black-tie, stand-up party with buffet food. I always try to make a dinner upbeat and short: from a guest perspective, the dinner may not be as fun. You might be plonked next to someone you can’t bear so you don’t want to be stationed there!  niermierko.com

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N Enviably positioned in the N Enviably positioned in the

heart of the capital, The Royal heart of the capital, The Royal Institute of British Architects is Institute of British Architects is the ideal location for your event M the ideal location for your event M

Discover this unique and versatile space Discover this and Discover this unique unique and versatile versatile space for meetings, conferences, dinners,space for meetings, conferences, for meetings, dinners, receptions andconferences, celebrationsdinners, from receptions and receptions and celebrations celebrations from from 8 to 400 people.

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25/03/2011 09:54 25/03/2011 09:54 25/03/2011 25/03/2011 09:54 11:25

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Health Spectrum April 11.indd 1

29/03/2011 22:57

J&P BRONZE LEATHER FLORAL CLUTCH £72 JENKINSANDPOWER.COM

ELTA STRAPLESS MAXI DRESS, £229 TEDBAKER.COM

FASHION

House of Da gmar

DEBORAH ICONIC DRESS WITH SILK CREPE SKIRT AND LEATHER TOP £398 HOUSEOFDAGMAR.SE

Wedding Belles ItÍ sæ weddingæ season,æ soæ makeæ sureæ youÍ reæ theæ BDGæ (bestæ dressedæ guest).æ Justæ donÍ tæ upstageæ theæ bride...

SEQUIN CAPELET £55 BLAKEGODBOLD.COM

SONIA BY SONIA RYKIE RUFFLE STRAP COTTON DRESS £295 LIBERTY.CO.UK

LELA ROSE PLEATED COTTONTWILL DRESS £765 NET-A-PORTER.COM

SPIKE FEATHER FASCINATOR £30 KALIKO. CO.UK

ASPINAL OF LONDON CLASSIC HEPBURN HANDBAG NUDE PATENT, £495 ASPINALOFLONDON.COM

BOW & VEIL CONTRAST LACE PILL BOX £24 ACCESSORIZE.COM

WHITE BERGAMOT EDT, £35 BSQUARE.CO.UK YVES SAINT LAURENT TRIBUTE SANDAL £540 HARVEYNICHOLS.COM

TEROUSLY GOOD LOOKING .UK – YOU’VE SEEN THE PREPOS .CO LES OP KO THE : NTH MO WEBSITE OF THE ULTRA COOL BRAND STORIES ONLINE AND SHOP THIS IR THE T OU CK CHE W NO S, AD REAL-LIFE COUPLES IN THE

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Style 11132 - Lace embellished tulle gown with satin and crystal detailing £999 by Ellis Bridals, (020 8888 8833, ellisbridals.co.uk) ‘Josephine’ shoes £280 , ‘Adelaide’ necklace £450 and ‘Rebecca’ bracelet £295, all by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk)

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Our fashion shoot goes bridal at the captivating venue that is RIBA at Portland Place

HERE COMES THE BRIDE Photography:Ê Dan Williams Hair/Make-up:Ê Helen Rance Stylist:Ê Frances Park

CA APR 11 Fashion Shoot.indd 35

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Style 11197 – Pleated and rouched taffeta one shoulder dress with twist detail, £899 by Ellis Bridals, 020 8888 8833 ellisbridals.co.uk ‘Pearl and jias crystal flower’ headband £95, by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk)

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Style 11184 – Pleated chiffon sweetheart neckline gown with lace embellished tulle, £899 by Ellis Bridals, 020 8888 8833, ellisbridals.co.uk ‘Josephine’ Shoe £280, by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk) Original Vintage Headband £240,

by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk)

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‘Grace’ dress £7,800 by Bruce Oldfield Wedding, (020 7584 1363, bruceoldfield.com) ‘Eva’ shoe £395 by Emmy Shoes (020 7704 0012, emmyshoes.co.uk) Hand embellished with crystal and fresh water pearls headband £165,

by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk)

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‘Millie’ dress £650 by Libelula (07986 583 238, libelula-studio.co.uk) ‘Aide’ Shoe £330 by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk) Alll make up supplied by: CHANEL CLINIQUE ILLAMASQUA YVES ST LAURENT LOCATION: The RIBA 66 Portland Place W1B 1AD ribavenues.com For further information please contact the RIBA Venues team on 020 7307 3888 venues@inst.riba.org The RIBA is an art deco landmark in the heart of London; a stunning and versatile venue available for corporate and private hire for 8 to 400 people --------------------

CREDITS: PHOTOGRAPHY: Dan Williams (danwilliams40@me.com) HAIR/MAKE-UP: Helen Rance (helenrance@yahoo.com) STYLIST: Frances Park MODEL: Abigail Gotts at First Model Management

COVER: ‘Gene’ dress £7,850 by Bruce Oldfield Wedding, (020 7584 1363, bruceoldfield.com) ‘Josephine’ shoes £280 , ‘Adelaide’ necklace £450 and ‘Rebecca’ bracelet £295, all by Freya Rose (0207 288 6311, freyarose.co.uk) Bouquet £70 Lilac, Lisianthus, Victoria Angry Antique roses, Ranunculus, Alabaster roses and Waxflower

by Rebel Rebel (020 7254 4487, rebelrebel.co.uk)

CA APR 11 Fashion Shoot.indd 39

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HOTEL REGENTS PARK

MARRIOTT HOTEL REGENTS PARK

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3ST

Amethyst Brides Specialist in bespoke

bridal and occasion wear

To view our current collect ion visit by the bout ique t appointmen

54 Southbury Road, Enfield EN1 1YB

Marriott_The wedding_Amethyst.indd 1

Tel: 0208 350 7832 07951 521 883 www.amethystbrides.co.uk

29/03/2011 20:03

ROCOCO HEART BOX NO.5 £100, RococoChocolates.com

BESPOKE MAP HEART £40, bombus.co.uk

SILVER MUSSEL EATERS £26.50, whiskhampers.co.uk

The perfect p resents for newlywed s...

MOSER BAR DECANTER, £596, Gift-Library.com

To Have & To Hold

ASPINAL ENGLISH BRIDLE LEATHER PHOTO ALBUM, £155, Selfridges.com

DOM PERIGNON POWER TRIO GIFT PACK, £870, Selfridges.com

EAST OF INDIA HAPPYEVER-AFTER ALBUM £14.95, temptationgifts.com

ASCASO DREAM ‘THE COW’ ESPRESSO MACHINE, £515, TheCoffeeMachineLondon.com

PERSONALISED MR & MRS TEA COSY £40 millyandpip.co.uk

C+A APRIL 11 WEDDING GIFTS.indd 1

ROYAL WEDDING COLLECTION GIFT BOX, £19.99, YankeeCandle.co.uk, 0845 050 2623

28/03/2011 18:08

WEDDING SPECIAL

LOCATION

LOCATION

LOCATION L

ocation can be the most difficult thing to decide on when organising a wedding.

If you choose to have the ceremony in London (and don’t already have somewhere in mind), it can be surprising how few spaces truly strike a chord with you and your partner’s individual taste and specifications. And it’s probably the first thing you need to arrange, as any ideas about theme, décor, even the dress, can stem from the final choice of venue.

If more modern venues leave you cold, an historical one could be the answer. All that architecture can offer much in the way of classicism, style, and atmosphere. We look at three of the best historical venues in the area.

Old Finsbury Town Hall

A grade II* listed building, registered with English Heritage as a building of great historical significance.

This grand example of late 19th century Civic Architecture is found on the intersection of six Finsbury streets in the heart of Clerkenwell, set in an island bound by Rosebery Avenue, Garnault Place and Rosoman Street.

Evans Vaughan’s design of the Town Hall’s brick and stonework is “free Flemish Renaissance”.

There are Baroque influences seen in the female figures and carved frieze above the first floor at the Rosoman Street and Garnault Place junction.

Art Nouveau detailing (quite radical at the time of building) combines with the stained glass – an effect that was popular in the early 20th century.

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Old Finsbury Town Hall is holding weddings again, following restoration in 2005 by the Urdang Academy, a long established performing arts school that was formerly based in Covent Garden.

Urdang relocated in January 2007, but the town hall continues a hundred year tradition as an events venue: punk, rock and operatic legends are reputed to have been married here! theoldfinsbury townhall.co.uk

42

CA MAR 11 - My Interior Life edit.indd 42

28/03/2011 18:05

KEnwood housE

Kenwood House

old finsbury town hall

Kenwood House boasts not only the perfect historical setting (a Georgian villa) but a world-class art collection as well.

Among the famous works are Portrait of an Artist by Rembrandt, The Guitar Player by Vermeer and Mary, Countess Howe by Gainsborough, together with exquisite paintings

by Hals, Van Dyck, Reynolds, Turner and many others.

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Kenwood House has numerous rooms that can accommodate your party – the Adam Library caters for a reception for up to 60 guests, intimate dinners can be held in your choice of the impressive stately rooms, including the Dining Room and Music Room. For larger parties of up to 120, the Orangery has rustic charm and is ideal for drinks receptions and dining while guests can then make their way to the charming Old Kitchen for the evening reception and dancing! english-heritage.org.uk

Wilton’s Music Hall

Wilton’s is the oldest surviving Grand Music Hall in the world – wow, that’s enough to want to hold your wedding there! It belongs to the first generation of public house music halls that appeared in London during the 1850s and which, only fifty years later, had all but disappeared.

Originally 5 terraced houses, John Wilton opened Wilton’s Music Hall in 1858. Since then it has been home to the missionaries, survived two world wars, been a rag warehouse and unfortunately become derelict. Wilton’s heyday as a music hall was short-lived: just twenty-two years. Several landlords followed after John Wilton and, in 1880, performances ceased when his final successor was unable to renew the licence due to new fire regulations.

Nowadays, Wilton’s does accommodate weddings for two months of summer in the main hall; as such you’re advised to book ultra early as the venue prioritizes its performance and theatrical calendar also.

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wilton’s MusiC hall

For ultra decadence, a drinks and Canapé reception can be held on the beautiful balcony or in the vintage-cool Mahogany bar.

Luxuriously refurbished in 1828, the bar set the tone for the iconic Victorian pubs that followed, and that we know and love today. It is said that more visiting sailors knew the whereabouts of the famed Mahogany bar than St Paul’s Cathedral itself! wiltons.org.uk 43

CA MAR 11 - My Interior Life edit.indd 43

28/03/2011 18:05

A treasure trove of beautiful, affordable and coveted jewellery.

CLAIR GREEN sources brooches, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and a whole array of vintage jewellery from various periods of history and areas of the world. Historic pieces date from the Georgian era to 1980s. CLAIR GREEN jewellery collections include items made from sterling silver, gold, semi-precious stones, glass, bakelite, amber and many other materials. Each vintage piece is unique and has its own individual charm.

CLAIR GREEN can create classic pieces of jewellery from vintage and modern beads to compliment your wedding dress or to accessorise your bridesmaids.

Your dream day

With magnificent grounds and an unsurpassed beauty, Stapleford Park offers a truly magnificent backdrop for your dream day to become a reality.

Set in rolling Leicestershire countryside, Stapleford Park is every brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream - whether a lavish grand wedding reception or a more intimate service with family and friends.

Wedding Show - 25th September 2011.

If you would like further information, contact us on 01572 787000 or visit www.staplefordpark.com

Freya Rose_Clair Green_Stapleford.indd 1

29/03/2011 20:14

WEDDING SPECIAL

LE VAIN CHOCOLATE DROP EARRINGS £2,399, ERNESTJONES.CO.UK PARENTESI COCKTAIL BRACELET £8,800, BULGARI.COM, 020 7872 9969

ABACUS BRACELET £70, GWAG.UK.COM

ROUND FACET RING 18 CART GOLD MOONSTONE £195, MONICAVINADER.COM

CAMÉLIA EARRINGS PRICE ON REQUEST, CHANEL FINE JEWELLERY, 020 7499 0005

TO LOVE & TO CHERISH

1950’S CAPRI DIAMANTÉ FLOWER BROOCH PRICE ON REQUEST, CLAIR GREEN, 07884 233141

Be dazzled by these exquisite jewels

FIL DE COMÈTE RING PRICE ON REQUEST, CHANEL FINE JEWELLERY, 020 7499 0005

BLUE TOPAZ, GREEN TOURMALINE & RHODOLITE EYEBRIGHT RINGS £430 - £520, ALEXMONROE.COM

MONTBLANC LA DAME BLANCHE COLLECTION PENDANT PRICE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST, MONTBLANC.COM

SAPPHIRE FLOWER PENDANT NECKLACE £45,300, BULGARI.COM, 020 7872 9969

EIGHT STONE DIAMOND ETERNITY RING £2,500 ZOEANDMORGAN.COM

SILVER CHERRY BLOSSOM RING WITH PEARLS AND DIAMONDS £395 SHAUNLEANESHOP.COM 020 7405 4773

CA APRIL 11 Jewellery.indd 45

45

28/03/2011 17:58

WEDDING SPECIAL

LOOK GREAT ON YOUR WEDDING DAY Stand out on your big day with this ultra effective treatment for instant weight-loss

W

ANT TO LOSE A FEW POUNDS FOR YOUR ALL-IMPORTANT WEDDING DAY?

i-Lipo™ is the latest in laser lipolysis, offering you a way to achieve inch loss and body contouring with no pain, no needles and no downtime!

For most of us, the idea of liposuction is too scary to entertain.

We’d rather slog it out the hard way than admit to going under the knife.

But the the i-Lipo treatment looks set to change our minds, due to its gentler, non-invasive approach. Here’s the science: the process emits low levels of laser energy, which creates a chemical signal in the fat cells, breaking down the stored triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol and releasing them though channels in the cell membranes.

The fatty acids and glycerol are then transported around the body to the tissues that will use them during metabolism to create energy. This transfer of fatty acid release is a natural bodily response which uses up stored energy reserves, so in effect i-Lipo does not trigger any unnatural reaction in the body or damage any surrounding structures such as skin, blood vessels and peripheral nerves. A period of exercise post-treatment will ensure the complete metabolism and thus elimination from the body of the freed fatty acids. i-Lipo is the best way to lose inches fast and make sure you look your very best in those wedding photos! Independent clinical studies have shown i-Lipo to be comparable to results achieved by liposuction.

Ultrasound imagery shows up to 30% reduction in the fat layer depth after just one treatment. Additional

treatments improve results further and results can be seen immediately after each treatment, as the fat cell contents are released.

What’s even better about the treatment is that, compared to surgical liposuction and other ultrasound or laser techniques, i-Lipo is a much more affordable option that generates similar results.

Ideal as a pre-dress fitting quick-fix, i-Lipo uses low levels of visible red laser light to create a safe and painless bio-stimulation effect in the targeted fat tissue. The results are immediate; typically a 2-4cm loss in abdomen circumference can be achieved with every treatment. A course of eight treatments is recommended over four weeks, with two treatments per week.

What’s more, i-Lipo can target fat reduction in a specific problem area. By positioning the laser pads on the target areas - such as the chin, upper arms, abdomen or thighs - fat can be broken down and removed. This provides a big advantage over diet and exercise, which can reduce overall body fat but often fails to shape specific areas.

For an ultimate pampering experience, the new ‘Ultra’ vacuum massage can also be used with the i-Lipo laser treatment, to help stimulate the lymphatic system and break down stubborn fat. Once i-Lipo has released the fat cell contents, the post-treatment Ultra can assist in removing released fat and promoting skin cell renewal and blood circulation - making for healthier, firmer skin and improving the appearance of cellulite.

It all amounts to the perfect prewedding pampering session; you could even take your bridesmaids along for a treat before the big day! 

info@healthspectrumclinic.com healthspectrumclinic.com 020 7377 8017 READER OFFER:

Receive £150 off a full course by quoting ‘zest’ when booking

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29/03/2011 17:31

CAPONATA ATA

ITALIAN RESTAURANT & BAR

3-7 Delancey Street London NW1 7NL 020æ 7387æ 5959 weddings@caponatacamden.co.uk www.caponatacamden.co.uk

Locatedæ inæ theæ heartæ ofæ Camdenæ Town,æ inæ aæ stunningæ RIBAæ award-winningæ building,æ Caponataæ Restaurantæ andæ Theæ Forgeæ Musicæ Venueæ areæ aæ perfectæ locationæ foræ youræ bespokeæ weddingæ reception.æ Caponataæ servesæ exceptionalæ quality,æ homeæ madeæ Italianæ foodæ fromæ freshæ seasonalæ ingredients.æ Afteræ meetingæ youæ ouræ headæ chefæ willæ provideæ aæ deliciousæ menuæ tailoredæ toæ youræ reception,æ fromæ canapés to a fine dining sit down meal. Specially designed with natural acoustics for live music, Theæ Forge can provide music and a dance floor to complete your celebrations. Our team can adviseæ youæ onæ theæ bestæ musiciansæ foræ youræ wedding,æ beæ itæ aæ stringæ quartet,æ funkæ bandæ oræ DJ.

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Setæ inæ theæ heartæ of æ Northæ London,æ aæ fewæ stopsæ awayæ fromæ theæ hustleæ andæ bustleæ of æ theæ city,æ Kassabaæ isæ everythingæ youæ couldæ want.æ Anæ opulentæ Restaurant,æ Bar,æ Loungeæ andæ Shishaæ Garden,æ alongæ withæa æde dicatedær oyalæVIP æs uiteæ•æa llæin æon eæl ocation.

Set across two floors, this awe inspiring venue is a perpetual Oasis of Persian, Ottoman, Eastern and Mediterranean inspired luxury. Kassaba has taken inspiration from the very first cultural fusionsæ broughtæ aboutæ byæ theæ legendaryæ Conqueror:æ Alexanderæ Theæ Great,æ 356BC,æ creatingæ anæ opulentæa mbienceædr apedæin æh istoryæa ndæin fusedæw ithæa æm odernæa ndæc ontemporaryæe dge.

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Kassaba DPS 2.indd 49

29/03/2011 19:48

THE CUPCAKE

CRAZE C

upcakes are all the rage. En vogue for the last few years, cute as anything, kitsch but still chic, they combine all the most fun parts of femininity – a touch of Marie Antoinette here, a dash of Alice in Wonderland there – into one bright, bitesized package. No doubt sparked by the starring role played by New York’s Magnolia’s Bakery in Sex and the City, cupcakes quickly became as cool as Carrie Bradshaw’s couture.

But the end of the show itself did not slow the ascent of the mighty cupcake, and in Britain what was once a simple, rather plain teatime treat has become a national obsession – and a surprisingly steadfast seller even during the recession.

Cupcake businesses, often run by mums turning their expertise into acumen, are doing a roaring trade, and we the masses seem unable to stop ourselves partaking.

Why should we? At a couple of pounds a pop, the confections are a cheaper luxury than new shoes or a designer handbag (and elicit just as many coos of delight when given as a gift). Cupcake cafes have cashed in on our desire for elevenses, afternoon tea and the occasional coffee pit-stop, while adding a healthy dose of whimsy and nostalgia to the mix.

Cupcakes make us think back to halcyon

Helen Baron delves into the colourful world of cupcakes and finds out how Primrose Hill Cakery ‘Sweet Things’ came to be...

childhoods, cosy afternoons spent baking with mum – and they are the perfect way to interest our own little ones in cookery.

In 1950s America, a tray of cupcakes was often taken into school on a child’s birthday; a tradition slowly being revived in pockets of the UK today – not least in Primrose Hill.

SWEET THINGS Boasting customers such as Dominic Cooper, Emma Thompson and Sophie Dahl, Sweet Things has become a neighbourhood favourite in Primrose Hill.

Natalie Allen, who started the company, moved to London from Cheshire 15 years ago and – frankly – was disappointed with the capital’s cakes. She missed home baking, goodies the way grandma used to make them: “Even now, I can’t eat Starbucks or Costa cake or anything like that.

Back then I just thought, where is there to go for a cup of tea and a decent cake that’s not mass produced?”

Allen always knew she’d be involved with food somehow, having grown up in a family of keen bakers. A project manager in the city, she would spend her spare time making cakes and desserts for friends’ parties, and the success of her efforts quickly turned her thoughts to the

idea of making her hobby into something more permanent. Fortunately, her husband advised her to chase her dream; she never looked back.

After completing a cookery course at the Cordon Bleu, Allen began to bake from home and sell her wares at luxury food markets, as well as baking for private customers and taking samples to small, independent shops and delis.

The response was enthusiastic, and her business began to grow and grow.

Soon she was stocking The Bread Stall on Clapham’s Northcote Road – prime cupcake territory, with almost more Bugaboos than people. The bakery was soon ordering up to a thousand cupcakes a week. But it was the renowned West End department store Selfridges that was Allen’s ultimate customer. She had her heart set on supplying them, pursuing the store’s food hall buyer doggedly.

She knew that the amount of pitches Selfridges received daily from similar companies must number in the hundreds, but an initial rejection didn’t faze her. She knew the problem must lie with the sheer number of applications the shop faced, rather than with the taste of her cakes, so she sent samples to the buyer and to the food hall’s counter staff. Her persistence paid off – less than a day later the call

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FOOD &DRINK

“EVEN NOW, I CAN’T EAT STARBUCKS OR COSTA CAKE OR ANYTHING LIKE THAT. BACK THEN I JUST THOUGHT, WHERE IS THERE TO GO FOR A CUP OF TEA AND A DECENT CAKE THAT’S NOT MASS PRODUCED?” came, with Selfridges requesting a supply want the most out of your cake, then of her cupcakes to the store’s London, you’ll probably want to come to us.”

Birmingham and Manchester branches.

To further illustrate her point, she tells From that moment, everything changed. me a story from last year. During a spell Bigger and suitably equipped premises when London had all but shutdown due beckoned, and Allen moved her business to extreme winter weather, the business to Primrose Hill. A little later, she was had cakes waiting to go out to clients – approached by Fortnum and Mason too. including one who was getting married “It’s a real achievement because there, that day. Faced with delays caused by we’ve beaten a lot of other companies stranded delivery vans, another Sweet to be one of maybe five similar products Things regular who happened to be in on the shelf – Fortnum and Mason is all the shop at the time offered to drive about high quality food.” the wedding cake to its destination, But what, I ask her, accounts for helping to avoid a wedding day disaster. the cupcake craze of A touching anecdote recent years? and one that shows the 3 CUPCAKE FACTS “I think the answer kind of devotion Sweet 1. Vogue magazine claimed that is two-fold. People Things customers feel owning a cupcake bakery are attracted to the not just to the shop is the career fantasy of our variety of flavours and itself, but to their times. colours, and I think fellow cake-fans!

2. Google has pronounced the they don’t quite feel Now, of course, cupcake the fastest-rising like they’re eating a business is booming, recipe search in the UK. whole slice of cake!” though Allen believes 3. One cupcake fan page on And was Allen, like she has benefited from Facebook has more than so many others, her timing – it would 250,000 members. inspired by Sex and be harder, she says, to the City’s very own Magnolia Bakery? set up in today’s tumultuous economy.

She laughs: “Totally – I visited it again “The cost of ingredients is now so high… recently on a trip to New York and the it’s actually quadrupled. If you are a large queues went around the corner.” She company you can negotiate fixed rates, confesses though that the cakes were and we now have some leverage, but not up to scratch. “A lot of unnecessary smaller companies are priced out.” Allen decoration but lacking in substance.” must feel relieved that she capitalised on How does she feel, I wonder, about her idea when she did. But there’s little the upsurge in competition? “If you’re time for wondering how different things good, you’ll stand out,” she replies, might have been, and as I leave she is with complete confidence. “We have about to don a hair net and oversee the a 95% repeat custom rate so people development of a new product for Easter are easily converted. There are some – a time of year for which her enthusiasm people who will always buy their cake and excitement are obvious. “Last year from, say, Marks and Spencer, but if we made cupcakes that looked like Easter you’re after the best ingredients, if you Eggs!” she coos. Sweet Things indeed. 

SWEET THINGS MADAGASCAN VANILLA CUPCAKES 110g butter, softened 110g caster sugar 110g plain flour 2 eggs 1 tsp baking powder ½ tsp Madagascan vanilla extract Up to 2 tbsp milk if necessary 1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees fan/200 degrees C/gas mark 6.

2. Cream butter and sugar with a hand mixer or bowl and wooden spoon!

3. Mix flour and baking powder in a bowl.

4. Mix eggs and vanilla in another bowl.

5. Now beat in some eggs to the butter and sugar mix, then some flour, alternating until all is mixed, finishing with flour last.

Add milk until dropping consistency is achieved.

Alternatively, place all cake ingredients except milk in a food processor and cream together. Add enough milk until mixture is dropping consistency.

6. Using an ice cream scoop or 2 spoons, spoon mixture into 12 or so cupcake cases until ¾ full.

7. Put in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cupcakes are golden on top. Allow cupcakes to cool on a wire rack.

8. Ice with vanilla or chocolate buttercream and decorate with mini eggs!

SWEET THINGS 3 TOP TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL BAKING:

1. All ingredients at room temperature – (microwave butter and milk if necessary) 2. Preheat oven fully 3. Use good quality, natural ingredients

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28/03/2011 18:18

Exhibiting at Grand Designs London May 2011 Stand K1

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OPI and ESSIE professional nail care for ladies and gentlemen. We are committed to deliver the best quality products and services to our customers 8 Broadway Parade, Crouch End N8 9DE Tel: 020 3538 5073

30/03/2011 00:16

SPOTLIGHT

LOCAL PROFILE With Atiti Sosimi, CEO of Distinctly Different

An accomplished serial entrepreneur, lecturer, author, trainer and speaker, Atiti Sosimi is the CEO of Distinctly Different, a North London based personal development organisation, founded in 2000.

The company’s client base includes corporate businesses, social enterprises, charitable and voluntary sector organisations, local authorities, further education institutions, secondary schools and individuals…

What what was your career path before setting up Distinctly Different?

Although I have a BSc in Sociology & Anthropology, I have always been a creative artistic person. When I left University I worked with an architect who also had a furniture design company and I learnt about traditional woodwork while there. I enjoyed this but wanted to do more and study the world of creative contemporary design. I set out to find a course of study that would refine my skill set. I also needed to find a job to sustain me while I decided what to study, so I found myself training and volunteering to become an advice worker for the Citizens Advice Bureau. I realized working directly with people was something I thoroughly enjoyed.

Did you always know you would be an entrepreneur?

I would say to an extent, but environment has had a big effect. As I was growing up I was exposed to a lot of enterprise and I often had the privilege of sitting in on my father’s business meetings. The business environment was exciting and it’s combination of dialogue, ambitious individuals and power dynamics attracted me.

Tell me more about Distinctly Different’s personal development products and services; what type of clients do you work with?

There’s a broad range of products and services that Distinctly Different specialize in delivering. They are largely innovative, flexible and customised to the needs of the organisations and individuals in the business, education and community sectors.

These include learning and development for organisations and individuals, programme development, adult learning, organisational consultancy, employee development and motivation, project management, books and publications, family and educational games and more.

The work we do in personal development is aimed at increasing the personal effectiveness and productivity of our clients without fostering a culture of dependency. Our client base includes, but is not limited to, the socially, economically and educationally disadvantaged alongside experienced and educated field specialists.

How was your board game “Shhh or Tell It” conceived and how long did it take to bring to fruition?

The game “Shhh or Tell It” was born out of the storyline for one of my books, The Big Secret. “Shhh or Tell It” looks at every aspect of the world we live in which constantly challenges us with dilemmas.

As a personal development organisation with a distinctly different approach, we believe learning should be an enjoyable experience and so we designed and developed this game to awaken consciousness and thinking, provoke dialogue, and promote action.

What are you working on at the moment? Can you describe your typical working day?

At the moment I am marketing “Shhh or Tell It”, exploring its online and media potential.

A typical day for me consists of networking, meetings, speaking and presentations, delivery of workshops, developing and nurturing partnerships and other business liaisons.

What, or who, inspires and motivates you?

I am inspired by watching people who are challenged by life in different ways and who manage to rise above their challenges to achieve personal successes. I’m inspired by those that struggle or suffer but are determined to survive;

tapping into their creativity and recognising their personal skills.

I have friends and acquaintances that also inspire me with the phenomenal work they are doing. Finally, I am deeply inspired by Maya Angelou, her life, her work and her passion.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering starting their own business?

Test your idea! Build relationships and acquaintances with business owners at different levels and ask questions. This is useful and important; it helps to clarify things in your head.

What advice would you give to someone who is looking to grow their business?

Find someone who has done what you would like to do and ask them to mentor you, or at least meet with you, so you can get some invaluable insider knowledge.

Have a plan that indicates what you’d like to achieve, the timescale, the resource and development requirements and how much it costs along with the source of investment.

Don’t start out before you are sure of where you are heading. Although you may survive; it is unwise to knowingly head into the desert ill-equipped.

Fast forward five years, where do you think your business will be in 2016?

I believe that Distinctly Different will be recognised as a front-runner in the field of personal development in the UK. I also believe our existing associated businesses will be equally successful.  658 Holloway Road, N19 3NU 020 7281 8344 distinctly-different.org shhh-or-tellit.org 53

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Just add water spring sale advert 2011:buckhurst hill life_march 2010_just add water

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BioSculpture/London Ortho.indd 1

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BEHIND THE SCENES:

SPOTLIGHT

VAVOOM HEALTH

TV Personality and Journalist Lowri Turner has conquered her past diet issues and is now a qualified Nutritionist and Hypnotherapist. Her brand new clinic in Muswell Hill has opened as a result of the success of the original Great Portland Street clinic; now in its second year of operation. We chat to Lowri about her new profession and the power of nutrition and hypnotherapy...

People will know you as a TV presenter and may associate you with Fashion and Interiors; how did you get involved with nutrition and hypnotherapy and when did you start VaVoom Health? I started training about five years ago for various reasons; I struggled with my weight over many years, particularly in my twenties when it went up and down by three stone.

Then I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). There’s no kind of treatment for it and you have to learn how to control your weight. I also suffered with Rosacea and again, you can control that through diet, so I became interested in how food affected me. In my late thirties I was looking for a new direction so decided to study nutrition.

I realised that when I was gaining weight, I had every diet book going, but couldn’t follow any of them. That’s why I thought, I need to find a way to help people to change their behaviour and I trained in hypnotherapy too.

Are all the treatments offered, a combination of hypnotherapy and nutrition? Yes, that’s what makes us unique; there’s no one really who does both. What is interesting is that a trained hypnotherapist will tell you the answer to everything is in the mind. A nutritionist will tell you that the answer to everything is through the food you eat! The reason people come to see me is that they’ve tried everything else; they’ve done weight watchers and they don’t understand why they can’t keep their weight where they want it to be.

The more clients I’ve seen, the more it’s

made me realise the key, absolutely, is in observing the behaviour around food.

Do you think people are sceptical or intimidated by the idea of hypnotherapy? I think they are both actually. People always say ‘does it really work?’ or ‘You’ll never be able to hypnotise me’. There is nobody who is ‘un-hypnotisable’, but you have to use a different approach for different people and respect that some people are naturally more guarded. I don’t hypnotise clients, I allow them to hypnotise themselves, so it’s not about them giving up control, it’s about enabling them to relax deeply.

What is the general procedure when someone comes to see you with a problem? People come to see me for a first appointment – for which they don’t pay – and we sit down for 50 minutes. They will have filled in a lot of detailed paperwork to do with their medical history. I see people for all kinds of reasons; fertility problems, stress, skin conditions... I ask them questions about their condition; what treatments they’ve sought, what kind of medication they’re on etc. I also do a mood questionnaire where they answer questions that will give me an idea of what’s happening with their brain biochemistry. In the first session we discuss all the information and I make an initial assessment. The next session is primarily nutritional and that’s when I would design them a food/ supplement plan to discuss in detail. A client would also take home a series of hypnotherapy CDs.

What’s the feedback been like?

Really good. When I launched the clinic, the capital was in the grip of the recession but I’ve been very surprised with how busy I’ve been right from the beginning.

How does running the clinic compare with your TV/media work? It’s very, very different. I think it requires a degree of humility that’s not necessary on television. I had to learn to listen to people... and I think I grew up actually; a sense of maturity is required.

What’s the key to success in running health clinics? The client is key. My job is to really listen to what they want to do. They decide what they want to address: you don’t judge and you don’t push things, it’s all about what they want to achieve. This approach is far more likely to elicit success.

Are there plans to expand Vavoom Health in the future? I’m working on a supplement line at the moment and am writing a book about brain functions and losing weight this year; it’s an area that I think is so interesting.

The Laboratory Spa and Health Club, The Avenue, Muswell Hill, N10 2QE, 020 8793 3580 For all information see vavoomhealth.co.uk 55

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MUSIC

30 APRIL

GOLDFISH

ALEXANDRA PALACE Goldfish are an electronic/ dance act hailing from Cape Town, South Africa.

Consisting of two friends - jazz musicians David and Dominic.

Their music is an exciting fusion of jazz and African elements and the boys have opened up for acts such as Basement Jaxx, Mr Scruff and Fatboy Slim. Hailed as the Reinvention of the DJ and voted best live act in South Africa, Goldfish are not to be missed!

Alexandra Palace Way N22 7AY alexandrapalace.com goldfishlive.com

What’s On

APRIL

EASTER EGG TRAIL

FENTON HOUSE Kids will love the Easter Egg trail at Fenton House. Explore the gardens of this charming 17th century house and follow the trail to find the hidden egg pictures to win a chocolate prize. £2.50 per child, accompanying adult has free admission.

Hampstead Grove NW3 6SP nationaltrust.org.uk/main/ w-fentonhouse

We round up all the best things to do this month WORKSHOP

17 APRIL & 24 APRIL CAKE POPS

The latest craze to hit town. Cake balls on lollipop sticks. What’s not to like? Learn to make and decorate them with candy melts, chocolate and an assortment of sprinkles! 17 April 14:00 – 16:00 24 April (children’s session) 10:30 – 12:30 £38 Oak Studio, 8 Perrins Court, Hampstead NW3 1QS craft-cakes.co.uk

THEATRE

5-24 APRIL

PHOTOGRAPHY NT/DAVID WATSON

THE ACCORDIONIST

NEW END THEATRE Written and performed by Bethany Jameson and Romano Viazzani, The Accordionist is an exploration of loss, desire, drink and dogged optimism.

Featuring new arrangements of Edith Piaf classics such as Je Ne Regrette Rien as well as new pieces in an entertaining and thought provoking evening of music and theatre.

27 New End Hampstead NW3 1JD newendtheatre.co.uk

EXHIBITION

TILL 17 APRIL NICHOLAS VERRALL

CATTO GALLERY After studying fine art and painting at Northampton School of Art, Nicholas spent a short period working in picture conservation and restoration. However, demand for his painting allowed him to become a full-time artist from 1970.

Instantly successful, his first one-man show was held in 1971, and it wasn’t long before Nicholas’s talent was recognised by the Royal Academy in multiple exhibitions. Nicholas has also been made a member of both the Royal Society of British Artists, and the Royal Society of Oil Painters in recognition of his work.

100 Heath Street NW3 1DP catto.co.uk

PAINTING TITLE ‘JARDIN DE FLEURS BLANCHES’

KIDS

22–25 APRIL

56

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NXNW

PROPERTY NORTH BY NORTHWEST

APRIL 2011

LINZEE ROAD, CROUCH END, N8 £925,000 FREEHOLD We are delighted to be able to offer this superb mid terraced Edwardian house offering spacious family accommodation over three floors affording many of the original period features. The property benefits from a brick built out building forming one of four original stables providing an ideal studio/playroom/work space which is to the rear of the garden. Situated in this highly sought after location just off Priory Road and within easy access to the Broadway’s of Crouch End and Muswell Hill and within walking distance of Alexandra, Park, Palace and Rail Station. Early viewing recommended.

Muswell Hill Office: 020 8444 1771

NXNW APRIL 11 Property Front cover.indd 55

ACCOMMODATION:

* LIVING ROOM * RECEPTION 2/ DINING ROOM * KITCHEN/ MORNING ROOM * 5 BEDROOMS * BATHROOM * SEPARATE WC * 2 EN-SUITE SHOWER ROOMS * GAS CH * GARDEN with BRICK BUILT OUT BUILDING * SOLE AGENTS

www.tatlers.co.uk 29/03/2011 18:07

Estate Agents Residential Lettings and Management

Central Muswell Hill, N10

£2,000,000 Freehold

Muswell Hill, N10

£1,195,000 Freehold

Situated in one of Muswell Hill’s most prestigious Avenues, is an impressive Edwardian semi linked, house, spread over 3 floors, which retains masses of original features, including stained glass windows, decorative fretwork, door features and fireplaces.

The house has 5 double bedrooms - one with a fitted en suite bathroom and a white fitted utility room/kitchenette - and another a huge loft bedroom - with an abundance of extra potential - 3 reception rooms and a spacious dining room leading to a smartly fitted kitchen. Also an interesting hallway with a large original stained glass panel, a family bathroom, a downstairs bathroom and a separate downstairs shower room, gas central heating, a Tradesmen’s entrance, an approximately 85ft. long, South Westerly facing, split level, landscaped garden and off street parking for 2 or 3 cars at the front of the house.

Situated in a secluded tree lined road, moments from the greenery of Alexandra Park, within easy walking distance of good local shops and a short drive from the shops in Muswell Hill Broadway, is an expansive, detached house, built in the 1920’s, on 3 floors, which has 4- 5 bedrooms - plus the advantage of a separate “au pairs” or Granny flat - 2 expansive reception rooms - one opening to the garden - and a large fitted kitchen/diner. There is also a family bathroom and separate shower room, a downstairs loo, gas central heating, an alarm system and a lovely wide, approximately 88ft. long, South Westerly facing lawned garden, plus a single garage and an off street parking space.

336-338 Muswell Hill Broadway London N10 1DJ Telephone: 020 8883 5485 | Email: info@jhk.co.uk JHK APRIL.indd 58

29/03/2011 20:24

www.jhk.co.uk

Muswell Hill, N10

Chain Free £875,000 Freehold

A fully refurbished Victorian terraced house, which has 4 bedrooms - one a loft conversion with an en suite shower room - 2 reception rooms, a fitted kitchen leading to a breakfast room, and a separate utility room and downstairs shower room. There is also a white fitted family bathroom, gas central heating and a mature, directly West facing, approximately 55ft long, garden.

Alexandra Palace & Park, N22

£875,000 Freehold

Situated in a quiet and very sought after tree lined crescent, close to the greenery of Alexandra Park, only moments away from Alexandra Palace Main Line Station or Bounds Green Tube Station - for speedy journeys to the City and West End - or a short car journey from Muswell Hill Broadway, is a wider and “larger than average” Edwardian terraced house, which has a contemporary interior feel. The house has 5 good sized bedrooms - one with an en suite shower room and 2 interconnecting reception rooms, plus a smartly fitted kitchen - opening to a recently extended dining room. Also a white fitted family bathroom, a utility room and downstairs loo, GCH and an approximately 45ft. long, Westerly facing, lawned garden.

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SWEET HOME

ALABAMA

A rare opportunity to acquire this imposing double fronted “late Regency” villa, circa 1830’s, which incorporates a wealth of architectural features, combined with a smart and tasteful modern restoration. 3,800 sq. ft. of living space provides a delightful family home for the 21st Century.

S

ituated right in the heart of Muswell Hill, in a conservation area, nestled behind established trees, is a deep, secluded 80 ft. front garden and carriage driveway, leading to this impressive house. Set on a large plot of third of an acre, which is spread over 3 floors, the house has 5 double bedrooms - one with an en suite bathroom and a large, adjacent dressing room - 4 expansive reception rooms, including a drawing room, a spacious study/ morning room and a separate formal dining room plus a family sized kitchen/breakfast room. There is a

large playroom/games room - on the lower ground floor - with a utility area and a wine cellar.

The house also provides a stunning, approximately 200ft. long, south westerly facing garden - benefiting from all day sunshine - and a generously sized garage, opening from the ample parking spaces on the carriage driveway.

Steps lead up to the entrance, where trellised fretwork, covered in climbing jasmine surrounds integral wooden seats on either side.

The entrance hall has a marble tiled floor leading to an additional inner hall - with a seating area -

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PROPERTY FOCUS

THE SOUTH WEST FACING GARDEN IS NEARLY 200FT LONG

and an original staircase leading to all floors.

The reception room has a large sash window - flanked by original wooden shutters - overlooking the front garden, original cornicing, a stripped and polished wooden floor and wooden panelled double doors opening to reception room.

The drawing room has french windows, with original shutters flanked by casement windows overlooking and leading to wooden steps which go down to the garden and patio.

It also features original cornicing, deep skirting, large open fireplace with a wide marble surround with hearth and a stripped, polished wood floor.

A wide inner hall boasts a cloakroom, ample space for a sofa and doors opening to the main

reception room as well as the dining room, the kitchen/dining room and the downstairs cloakroom.

Believed to have been modified from an original coach house, the main reception room has french windows, flanked by large double glazed sash windows, which overlook and lead to the garden.

The south west facing garden is nearly 200ft. long and is reached from both of the main reception

rooms and the kitchen. There is a York stone paved dining patio and the garden is divided into 3 distinct “rooms” with a large bordered lawn area and a 2nd sunny patio area and pond. It backs on to the protected tranquil wooded land of the North Bank Estate. The garden has a very open feel and provides all day sunshine in a peaceful, rural atmosphere.

Mature trees include oak, pear and cherry with many flowering shrubs. There are low voltage and flood lights for evening parties, plus a gate opening to the tradesman’s pathway leading to the front of the house - useful for children’s bikes and garden refuse. 

Price on application, freehold and available from JHK Independent Estate Agents, 020 8883 5485, www.jhk.co.uk 61

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Visit kfh.co.uk or your local KFH branch Belsize Park Islington Crouch End Muswell Hill Highgate

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Cecile Park, N8

£1,525,000 Freehold Sole Agents

A superb six bedroom mid terraced turn of the century house providing spacious family accommodation over four floors including 31Õ living/drawing room. The property retains many of the original features and has been modernized and decorated to an extremely high standard. Situated in this highly sought after turning just off Crouch Hill, within a few minutesÕ walk of the excellent shops and restaurants of Crouch End Broadway and in easy access to Crouch Hill Rail Station and Highgate Underground Station (Northern Line).

Crouch End Office: 020 8341 4050

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www.tatlers.co.uk

Cranbourne Road, N10

£1,275,000 Freehold Sole Agents

Creighton Avenue, N2

£2,050,000 Freehold Sole Agents

Situated on one of the most desirable roads in Muswell Hill is a well presented five bedroom mid terraced Edwardian residence, set over three floors. This fine home boasts two formal reception rooms and an extremely large kitchen/diner with a conservatory leading out to a delightful rear garden. The house retains many original period features and provides extremely spacious accommodation throughout covering more than 2,300 sq ft. Located a short walk from Muswell Hill Broadway and its vast array of shops and restaurants, and within favourable distance of good local schools, the house has panoramic views of Alexandra Palace and North London.

Muswell Hill Office: 020 8444 1771

A truly magnificent double fronted detached family home presented in a ‘ready to move into’ condition and being just under 4000 sq feet. Having been completely remodelled and modernized throughout with the advantage of a self contained garden level annexe; other benefits include four bathrooms (three en-suite) and has a breathtaking 120’ rear garden backing onto Coldfall Woods and off street parking for five cars behind secure gates. The property is located within equal distance to both Muswell Hill Broadway and East Finchley. Also in catchment for Fortismere Secondary School.

East Finchley Office: 020 8883 1001

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HIRSH L O N D O N

TRILOGY COLLECTION HANDMADE IN PLATINUM

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WEST END 56-57 BURLINGTON ARCADE W1J 0QN T 020 7499 6814 - CITY 9 HATTON GARDEN EC1N 8AH T 020 7831 3333

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