WHAT’S ON FOR KIDS AND FAMILIES IN NORTH LONDON
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GINGERBREAD CHRISTMAS TREE RECIPE BY CRAFTY CHEFS
Delicious and fun! CHRISTMAS PARTY IDEAS BY SILLY MILLY
NORTH LONDON MUM’S GUIDE TO THE CHRISTMAS SEASON
VOUCHERS AND SPECIAL OFFERS
INSIDE! www.sophias-diary.com
HEALTH & BEAUTY FOOD & DRINK ART & CULTURE AND MUCH MORE! 1 Special Edition
Southgate’s Original State Agent
Selling property in the area since 1982 Having originally sold this property in 1983, we are now selling it again some 36 years on. Give us a call if you are looking for a reputable agent in the area.
Contact us: Info@rashandrash.com 020 8882 2828
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Discover a Whole New World with North London’s Best Urban Pantomime 10-26 January 2020
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PINK OF LONDON
Pink of London have all your hair and beauty needs covered, from hair colour services, cut and style to facials, nails and laser hair removal. Offering a luxury service in beautiful surroundings using only the most premium brands available.
14 Wades Hill, Winchmore Hill N21 1BG 020 8037 8555
Call: 020 8037 8555 to book your consultation today!
GET SOCIAL WITH US:
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£10 GIFT VOUCHER
*TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. VALID THROUGHOUT JANUARY 2020. MINUMUM SPEND £30 Special Edition
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To all my lovely readers, It brings me great pleasure to launch our first Christmas Magazine. This for me is the most wonderful time of the year. I love the build-up to Christmas as everything looks so amazing. Generally, everyone is happier, our social life is busier and most importantly, we all make more of an effort to get together with the people we love the most. So much effort goes into this special day, from filling stockings, personalising clothes, Christmas Eve boxes, decorating the house, and choosing the most amazing food. We know it can be expensive too, so we have included the discount card at the back which has numerous offers (www.sophias-diary.com/ discounts). This also ensures we support local businesses too. Nothing beats being a parent on Christmas Morning, watching our little ones run down the stairs and cheering when they receive a gift they love. This is truly an unforgettable and precious memory we all hold on to forever. Please take some time out to visit and support anyone on their own, or those that need some help. We hope this magazine gives you lots of ideas for fun things to do and places to shop. Have the most amazing Christmas everyone. Enjoy the build-up, go out, have fun and eat and drink loads. Love, your editor Andrea
xx
To advertise in our next issue or join the directory, contact us: email contact@sophias-diary.com www.sophias-diary.com /SophiasDiaryCommunityGroup @sophiasDiary9630
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Tipples and TasTers The EN_FOOD Cafe and Bar has arrived in Enfield Town serving delicious homemade food and drinks using locally sourced ingredients and prepared in house by our sustainability focused Head Chef Ben Murphy. At the heart of Enfield's cultural life, EN_FOOD at the Dugdale Centre serve great drinks while delighting your taste buds. Masters of mixology with an impressive roster of cocktails complement their freshly prepared plates are unique and wholesome. With exciting new choices every day that represent the seasons as well as regular favourites that are always on the menu.
Nominated for The Food Made Good Awards 2019 Streetfood Pop-Up Bar is open Friday and Saturday night from 6pm-11pm CafĂŠ open Monday to Saturday 8.30am - 3.30pm DUGDALE CENTRE, 39 LONDON ROAD, ENFIELD TOWN, EN2 6DS
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Oi Frog and Friends Cast Announcement
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Going Out By Stephanie Beauchamp Health and Safety By Hanna Broady Christmas at Home By Katerina Georgiou Gingerbread Christmas Tree By Crafty Chefs Community Get to know: Streetz Ahead Health: Circulation, the secret to our wellbeing Food & Drink Viva Vino! by Dario Langella
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Christmas Party Ideas By Silly Milly North London Mum’s Guide to the Christmas Season Beauty: Winter beauty Top Tips By Nicola Economides Top Christmas Book Recommendations Property by Matt Turner Local Businesses Sophia’s Diary Awards Ceremony Home and Decor Make more of the space you have
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Art and Culture
Full cast and creative team announced for ‘Oi frog & friends!’ UK tour and west end season Kenny Wax Family Entertainment is delighted to announce the full cast and creative team of its new family stage show ‘Oi Frog & Friends!. As previously announced, the musical production will make its West End premiere at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue for a strictly limited season from 29 November 2019 to 5 January 2020, as part of a national UK Tour.
Oi Frog & Friends! will bring together Kes Gray and Jim Field’s best-selling and award-winning picture books Oi Frog!, Oi Dog!, Oi Cat! and Oi Duckbilled Platypus!, published by Hachette Children’s Group. It is created for the stage by Director Emma Earle, Designer Zoe Squire (Co-Artistic Directors of Pins and Needles Productions), Composer Luke Bateman and Lyricist Richy Hughes. Puppet Design is by Yvonne Stone with Lighting Design by Ric Mountjoy. The cast line-up for the West End and 2019/20 UK Tour is Darren Seed as DOG, Lucy Tuck as CAT, John Winchester as FROG (Autumn 2019 & WEST END), Robin Hemmings as FROG (Spring / Summer 2020), and Simon Yadoo as CHEETAH, with Rebecca Ayres as Understudy/ASM. Oi Frog & Friends! is an action-packed play with songs, puppets, laughs and, of course, rhymes! It’s a new day at Sittingbottom school and FROG is looking for a place to sit, but CAT has other ideas and DOG is doing as he’s told.
Little do any of them know that chaos is coming... ‘Cats sit on mats, hares sit on chairs, mules sit on stools, gophers sit on sofas and frogs sit on logs’ – who knew there were so many rhyming rules, and what will happen when FROG is in charge? The production is an ideal introduction to theatre and the perfect entertainment for families with children aged 3+. Prior to its West End Winter season, Oi Frog & Friends! previews at Frensham Heights, Farnham (12-13 October) and plays Norwich Playhouse (15-20 October) before heading to the Forum Theatre, Billingham (22-23 October), New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich (24-25 October), Hertford Theatre (26-27 October) and The Rose Theatre, Kingston (29 October-3 November) for half term fun.
For the full Oi Frog & Friends! West End and 2019/20 UK tour schedule and to book visit: https://oifrogandfriendslive.com.
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Going Out
YO MUMMA’S CHRISTMAS WISHLIST
By Stephanie Beauchamp
“This the season to be jolly, fa la-la-la-la-la-la-la-LA!” (wow – that took a lot of singing! And I’m not one for Xmas tunes!). However, I do want to sing (loudly) this year as this year marks the first Christmas where our unpredictable toddlers are finally at an age where we can 100% enjoy events near and far (without them getting over-tired and spontaneously ridiculous!). So here it is, Yo Mumma’s Christmas Wishlist:
My TOP 3 Memory-Making Experiences: The Santa Dash - 8th December, Brockwell Park London Grab the whole family and a few Santa outfits (they’ll love that bit) and “prance, dance, dash or wheel” your way around the beautiful Brockwell Park in aide for Great Ormand Street Hospital. For all ages, pick the 5k or 10k (for 16+) route and feel fit and healthy as a family. I’m so up for this challenge – not only to raise some very well deserved money for GOSH but to also help my children understand just how lucky we are to have our health. My little girl was born with a foot condition called Talipes and so, I think it would be a great achievement for her to be able to have a go at something like this. We all face our marathon’s in life and I want to teach them to always appreciate what they have. Plus it might help budge the two advent calendars I will potentially be scoffing down once
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Epping Ongar Railway – Santa’s Special Trains My children absolutely love getting on the train as it’s still such a novelty for them (they’ll soon learn!). So I can’t wait to see their faces when they hop on board a steam engine. This magical journey sets off from North Weald station and travels through the beautiful Essex countryside. All children will have a meet and greet with the big man himself, receive a gift and will be transported from the tube station to the steam engine via a cute little doubledecker bus. Adults also receive a drink and festive treat too! Entertainers will keep the kids busy during their journey by holding a drawing competition and there will be time to write Santa a letter. Definitely one for the list if you’re looking for an extra special meet and greet day! Book tickets here: www.eorailway.co.uk
Theatre Time!
Since I’ve had children I’ve been trying to force new Christmas traditions on the family every year. So far we’ve been through Christmas morning pancakes for breakfast (didn’t last as both kids are the fussiest eaters known to man!), Xmas eve McDonald’s dinner (I won’t let this reoccur as I’ve promised myself to not be in the biggest Xmas eve rush known to man this year!) and Boxing Day Movie day (a day where we watch movie after movie in our PJ’s, hoping everyone’s up for this again!). However, this year I want to introduce the Christmas Theatre to the menu.
Here’s a few I’ve got my eye on: •Cinderella – A Rockin’ Christmas Panto The Arts Depot (30 Nov – 5 Jan) •A Toy’s Tale – A feelgood Christmas Story The Bull Theatre Barnet (1st December) •Aladdin The Bull Theatre Barnet (14 – 30 Dec)
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•Snow White The Chickenshed (27 Nov – 11 Jan) •Sleeping Beauty The Wyllyots Theatre Potters Bar (14 – 15 Dec) •Superheroes and the Magic Lamp Millfield Theatre 10-26 Jan Special Edition
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Health and Safety
Bumps and bruises By Hannah Broady
With Christmas fast approaching, we’ve been looking at the most common injuries to happen around this time. Trips and falls seemed to be the most common for all ages. Bruising is caused by internal bleeding (under the skin) due to a person injuring themselves by, for example, falling over, walking into something or playing sports. Some people are naturally more prone to bruise than others. Treat bruises, initially, by limiting the bleeding. You can do this by cooling the area with a cold compress (a flannel or cloth soaked in cold water) or an ice pack wrapped in a towel (do not apply ice directly to the skin). If the bruise is still there after two weeks, you should recommend that your casualty see their GP. A serious trip or fall could cause a head injury which may result in a concussion. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that may result in a bad headache, altered levels of alertness, or unresponsiveness. Hannah is a trainer in First Aid, Safeguarding and First Aid for Mental Health.
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The most common signs and symptoms of concussion are: • Evidence of a head injury (blood or bruising • Headache and nausea • Dizziness and loss of balance • Confusion, such as being unaware of your surroundings • Feeling stunned or dazed with vision • Difficulties with memory
Treatment for concussion is:
• If they are responsive, rest them by sitting them down, or laying them down with the head raised and hold a cold compress against the injury • Keep them warm and keep talking to them • If they are unresponsive and breathing normally, place them in the recovery position • Monitor their airways, breathing and response levels • If they are unresponsive for more than 3 minutes, you must call for an ambulance • You must recommend that they seek medical advice, particularly if they develop a headache, feel sick or they sleep more than they would normally do
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When I say “TEDDY” you say “TASTIC!” We are the ONLY 5 STAR children’s entertainers with our own bear stuffing machine and Sophia’s Diary’s FIRST ever business! We provide a unique MAKE A BEAR party experience for birthdays, christenings and weddings. Our parties include bears, arts & crafts, disco and FUNTASTIC party games!
We also offer our FREE hall in Enfield or WE come to YOU! Special offers booked before MARCH: •BIRTHDAY CHILD FREE •Class bookings HALF PRICE (after first 20 children)
Book now: 07956 575170 val@teddytastic.net
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Party Ideas Ahh, Christmas - it is the most wonderful time of the year, isn’t it? (And the most expensive for most of us too!) But there are also some wonderful things you can do at home with your little ones that won’t cost an arm and a leg. Enjoy my top five things to do!
1 Make a Christmas inspired lucky dip
By Katerina Georgiou
Write down different Christmas activities you can do at home and let your child pick out of the pot for something to do on that day. The fun comes from the magic of not knowing what they’re going to pick and knowing that whatever it is (which can include making a Christmas inspired hot chocolate, acting out a Christmas book or watching a Christmas film) will be a surprise!
2. Booster Buddy Box for hours of educational fun
Booster Buddy is an educational subscription box for children Each box lasts a month (for only £20!) and includes many different activities and worksheets, perfect to keep your little ones busy in an educational way! www.boosterbuddybox.co.uk
3 The Great Christmas Bake off!
Turn your kitchen into the bake-off tent and enjoy making festive bakes with your children. Print off the recipe and get them to help you make gingerbread, cupcakes or even a fruit cake and show off their skills. Cheap and guaranteed to take an afternoon up (especially getting them to tidy it all up!)
4 Make your own Christmas decoration
There are so many different decorations you can make for your home with your children, including making their bauble! Watch them get creative and then see the pride in them hanging their DIY decoration up on the tree for everyone to see! Places like The Range, Home Bargains, B&M and the pound shop have so many bits to work with around this time of year which is great.
5 Acts of kindness and a clear out!
In preparation of all the lovely new clothes and toys your child is most likely to receive at Christmas, why not get them to help you clear out their unwanted bits and gift them to a charity shop or for the homeless this Christmas. A perfect chance for a clear-out and also to show them that Christmas is not only about receiving, but it’s the perfect time of year for giving!
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Theatre Life Academy of Performing Arts ENROLLING NOW! Book your FREE TRIAL today! Performing Arts Classes for children ages 4-18
FINCHLEY
WHETSTONE
ISLE OF DOGS
Visit www.theatrelifeacademy.co.uk For more info email theatrelifeacademy@gmail.com give us a call on 07730 48 21 48 www.sophias-diary.com
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Food and Drink
GINGERBREAD CHRISTMAS TREE
by Crafty Chefs
Ingredients • 110g soft brown sugar • 4 ½ tablespoons golden syrup • 1 heaped teaspoons cinnamon • 1 heaped teaspoons ginger • 140g butter (or dairy-free spread) • 1 ½ teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda • 335g plain flour (can be gluten-free) • 200g royal icing for assembly, (for egg-free use icing sugar with potato flour) • Star Cutters 3-4 different sizes
What to do:
1. Pre-heat oven to 180c Gas Mark 4 2. Put the sugar into the saucepan, add the golden syrup, spices and 3 tablespoons of water 3. Bring to boil, stirring all the time 4. Take the pan off the heat and stir in the butter and bicarbonate of soda 5. Stir in sieved flour slowly until you have a smooth dough – if it looks too wet add more flour 6. Cover the pan and leave to cool for 30 minutes 7. Lightly flour surfaces and roll out the dough to about 1 cm thick 8. Use the cutters, you will need 2 of each piece. 9. Put them on a greased baking tray and cook until very golden. This usually takes about 15minutes 10. When they are cooled a bit put on a wire cooling rack, leave until completely cool 11. To assemble each tree, use the largest star at the bottom and continue building the layers using 2 stars of each size, descending in size, use the royal icing to attach them in the middle and save a small star for the top. Decorate the star for the top and leave to set, once set attach to the top with some icing. Brush the tops of the stars with a little water and then dust the tree with some icing sugar and glitter spray to add some sparkle.
Let Crafty Chefs teach your toddler how to do this at our Christmas Cooking Classes in December! 16
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Community
GET TO KNOW: STREETZ AHEAD Streetz Ahead was founded by Elizabeth Lahav in 1995 and has consistently inspired thousands of young people to express themselves and build confidence through the power of dance, rap, music and performance in a creative, inclusive and supportive environment. Lahav believes that dance is essential to a healthy society, demonstrating the infinite possibilities for human expression and potential while facilitating communication within and across cultures. Our mission is supporting the potential of young people of diverse abilities and needs to enhance their lives and positively contribute to society. Streetz Ahead works in deprived areas of Haringey and Enfield, partnering with 10 schools a year and working with 480 children and young people each week to develop their skills and passion for street dance while also developing fitness, teamwork, confidence and self-esteem.
Streetz Ahead prides themselves in being unique by producing three dance productions each year at local theatres. They run separate in-school dance programs for 150 children every week who are at risk of being excluded from school. Lahav also writes and directs children’s musical dance and rap theatre, debuting with ‘WOLF’. Sell-out audiences and rave reviews have prompted another tour which is set to hit London in 2020. Please also contact Streetz Ahead if you would like to hear about their inschool dance projects if you would like to refer a child to their program, or you are a parent and want to find out about volunteer opportunities, please do get in touch with them and they would be delighted to hear from you.
For more info visit www.streetzahead.org 18
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MARY POPPINZ Show on Sunday 15 March 2020 at The Millfield Theatre, Silver Street, N18 1PJ
COURSE DATES Autumn Term 2019 w/c Mon 16 Sep - Fri 13 Dec £80 Spring Term 2020 w/c Mon 6 Jan - Fri 3 Apr £80
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COURSE INCLUDES Weekly training Certificate End of Term Disco Google link of show
CONTACT US www.streetzahead.org/registration 07956 987 387 info@streetzahead.org www.streetzahead.org Special Edition
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Registered Charity 1160702
Health and Wellbeing
Give The Gift Of Wellness Circulation: The secret to our wellbeing By Shereen Ahmed
Blood is the substance that gives us life. Blood circulation ensures almost all of the processes within the human body. These include providing oxygen, vitamins and enzymes. In order to stay fit and healthy, all vital substances must be transported in all directions, quickly and in sufficient quantity. This is where the power of magnets comes into play. Magnets activate this metabolism and, as such, promote physical functions.
But how does this happen? In 1954 Linus Carl Pauling discovered the magnetic characteristics of haemoglobin and awarded the Nobel Prize for Chemistry to mark his achievement. This discovery is of particular significance because, besides its function as an oxygen carrier, iron also plays a key role in the metabolism that takes place within cells. Iron is also a key energy carrier - which can be magnetised. This also explains why so many differ ‘general symptoms’ affecting the body, such as insomnia, menstrual pains, depressive moods and general tiredness, can be improved. Wearing magnetic jewellery and accessories stimulates the supply of nutrients.
Other conditions that could be improved by the wearing/using of magnets include but are not exclusive of headaches & migraine, neck and back pain, arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Come and see me at Enfield Market Thursday - Saturday www.shereen.magnetix-wellness.com 20
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ACCESSIBLE AFFORDABLE YOGA FOR ALL At North London Yoga Studio we offer:
• 25 Hot and non Hot Yoga classes every week • Over 8 experienced and caring teachers
• membership packages starting at less than £4 a class • pay as you go options
• classes for all ages and abilities including Beginners & Teen Yoga
• discounted rates for retired people and students • a beautiful, dedicated, peaceful studio • changing room
• free nearby parking
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4 Vera Avenue Grange Park London N21 1RA
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Food and Drink
VIVA VINO! By Dario Langella
Many people find the whole ‘wine’ concept confusing & alien, but let me reassure you: it might be complex but it’s definitely not unfathomable. Consider it a personal exploration of a mysterious world, to be discovered one bottle at the time! HERE ARE A FEW POINTERS FOR THE ADVENTUROUS DRINKERS:
Sparkling:
Cheap Champagne is often disappointing but a proper bottle – from the lighter Laurent Perrier to the remarkable Krug – will simply become unforgettable. What if your budget doesn’t stretch that far? Just be on the lookout for a sparkler labelled “methode champenoise” or “traditional method” (pioneered by the first Champagne makers). Franciacorta (such as our Ca de’Pazzi @ £25) is a great example, but you can also find ‘traditional-made’ wine in a Spanish Cava, a variety a French Cremants and the New World.
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What about whites?
Why not explore richer styles, perhaps aged in wood? If you don’t want to go as far as our astonishing Greco di Matera Cifarelli @£20 be on the look-out for St.Aubin, Orvieto Superiore or Rioja Blanco.
Reds:
This is the perfect time to explore bolder, enticing wines such as our Nero di Troia Vigne Levante @ £15 (each bottle is styled with a hand-made ceramic label). Other wines to keep on the radar: Chateauneuf-du-Pape; Ripasso di Valpolicella and Ribera del Duero.
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CRAFTY CHEFS MISSION IS SIMPLE:
GETTING PEOPLE COOKING! Children’s cooking parties Afternoon Tea Parties Cooking workshops and courses Chocolate parties Toddler Cooking Classes
Special recipes for children with food allergies
Book now: 07771875939 ailsa@craftychefs.co.uk / www.craftychefs.co.uk
THE PERFECT GIFT FOR THE WINE BUFF! WE OFFER TAILORED PACKAGES STARTING FROM £15
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For more details email us: info@vineyards-direct.co.uk
MENTION “SOPHIA'S DIARY” TO QUALIFY FOR A FREE GIFT
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Party Ideas
CHRISTMAS PARTY IDEAS By Silly Milly
Christmas is a great time for parties with the children. I am a busy Silly Milly throughout the festive season! I would always suggest having an entertainer at your party; They bring the fun and energy needed to keep the kiddies happy and engaged at any party! They also keep the children having fun whilst the parents are having some fun too!!
SANTA!
Get a Dad or Co-Worker to dress up as Father Christmas. The children LOVE meeting Santa and getting a present from him. Wrap up the presents, so the kiddies can enjoy unwrapping them!
MUSIC!
Here are my Top 5 Xmas Bangers: • All I want for Christmas is YouMaria Carey • Mistletoe - Justin Bieber • Santa Tell Me- Ariana Grande •Underneath The Tree - Kelly Clarkson • Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree- Brenda Lee
GAMES! Theme up games and keep it festive: Make Me A Christmas tree Children into groups, with a load of Xmas decorations. One child is the tree and the rest decorate them in 2 minutes! Mystery Stocking Put all your prizes into a stocking and let the children pick a gift when they win. Pass the bauble Like pass the parcel but with Baubles!!! Give a prize out to each child the bauble lands on when the music stops Santa’s Belly Limbo Just like the classic but if your belly touches the pole, we all shout ‘Santa’s Belly!!!!!’ And you are out!! Musical Snowmen - Like the classic but freeze…like a Snowman!
Visit www.sillymillyparties.co.uk for more party ideas 24
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Pair of Diamonds Fun Casino will provide the entertainment!
info@pairofdiamonds.co.uk
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Going Out
North London Mum’s guide to the Christmas season 2019 By Saffy Vernazza
It is a tradition we kick off the season with a trip to willows farm. 10 minutes out of North London on the M25 this is super close with amazing facilitates we are so lucky having Willows on our doorstep! Apart from being a farm with huge indoor soft play and play village the Santa Spectacular is always really special. Meadow is 3 this year and has previously enjoyed the build a bear and biscuit decorating but this year I’m looking forward to using her elf passport as she will understand it now. If you don’t mind travelling another amazing farm that was recommended to me is Marsh farm in Chelmsford. Marsh Farm rivals the equally amazing Lap Land UK but is half the price. Marsh Farm is a lively and festive day with lots of live singing by some colourful characters including Mrs Claus who bakes in her kitchen. This is a 2.5-hour experience so get there a few hours before to enjoy the first part of the day at the farm for a great day out. Those looking for even more value for money head central into Hyde park as Winter Wonderland including Santa’s grotto is completely free, although there may be queues at peak times. If your little ones love trains, Epping Ongar Railway is highly recommended by mums
who go back year after year. Epping Ongar Railway has the most authentic Santa ever according to one mum friend. Imagine meeting Santa on a big steam train? How magical does that sound! Those wanting to stay local should try Crews Hill’s best kept secret the Springtime Nursery Santa’s Grotto. We did this last year, I recommend pre-booking as queues on the day were hours long. If you do get caught out without tickets you can always leave the partners in the queue whilst you take advantage of the amazing shopping, snow globe and reindeer. If you have a little one who’s scared of Santa (we’ve all been there!), there is still lots to do at Christmas without seeing the big man himself. If you love a show check out the Chickenshed’s Christmas Tales at the Dugdale Center, Enfield Town. A colourful vibrant show with plenty of singing and dancing. The Dugdale is also home to a small local museum and ENFood a toprated sustainable restaurant. There are also Christmas Markets happening at Forty Hall and also the traditional Enfield Christmas Parade Of Light on December 1st. Looking to save money head up to Oxford Street to see the lights for free!
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Cedar Designs a small embroidery business that specialise in personalisation and digitization – turning a design into an embroidery. Set up in EnďŹ eld, we have 15 years of embroidery experience and 20 years in retail we will do our best to help you. e-mail: cedar-designs@outlook.com Tel: 07815547128 www.cedardesigns.wixsite.com
27 Nov - 11 Jan For ages 5+
020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk
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Registered charity no:1012369
Sponsored by
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Health and Beauty
Your winter beauty top tips! Winter is a busy season – we never seem to stop. We are always rushing off to meet friends and family and often forget to look after ourselves, leaving our hair and skin neglected. Here are my 5 TOP TIPS to keep your hair and skin glowing in the frosty few months
#1
By Nichola Economides
When was your last facial? With all the drinking, eating and partying and lack of sleep, I bet you think you can only imagine what Is in your skin... Well now with the Hydrafacial you can see what comes out. The only way that I can explain it, it’s a vacuum and jet wash for your skin. It’s like magic! Suddenly a beautiful natural glowing skin appears. With its youthful and glowing appearance, it leaves the skin, you’ll be hooked!
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#2
Make a visit to your hairstylist – Your hairstylist should be your best friend and should be someone who can guide you on what’s best for you. Whether you colour your hair or not in the winter, add some TLC to your hair with a glossing to add plenty or shine, Loreal Professional SmartBond treatment to repair the hair from within and a healthy maintenance cut (it does not need to be a huge amount off) to keep your hair strong and healthy. Come and see our Loreal colour specialists for some bespoke tips and advice.
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#3
Are you guilty of taking your make up off with a face wipe and think you have cleansed your face? I used to be guilty of this until I found Elemis pro collagen cleansing gel. It is a perfect way to remove makeup. You only need a small amount and it goes a long way! Leaving your skin feeling clean, fresh and hydrated every time. Something I personally cannot live without! Don’t forget to pair with an Elemis moisturiser for that beautiful nourishment that your skin so deserves! Visit our Elemis Specialist in salon today for a complimentary consultation. This will help you decide on the best products suited for your skin type.
#4
Do you look after your hair at home? I mean really look after your hair! Using a good shampoo, conditioner and styling products at home will help keep your hair looking and feeling healthy and shiny in between your visit to your hairdresser. Oribe Signature range is perfect for everyday use to add protein and hydrates your hair. Pop in and have a complimentary consultation with one of our Hairstylists to find out what Oribe range is best for you.
#5
It sounds so simple, yet do we do it enough? Make sure we are drinking plenty or water and just be careful on the intake of too much sugar. I KNOW, it’s hard, especially at Christmas when you have people round and they just happen to bring you ANOTHER box of celebrations, however, just try and limit the amount of chocolates you eat in one day and ALWAYS drink 8 glasses of water per day.
www.pinkoflondon.com
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Education
Top Christmas Book Recommendations By Kerry Okoluko Pop-up Twas the Night Before Christmas (+3) ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse… Open this pop-up book and watch an abbreviated version of the classic poem magically burst into life, with scenes including a beautiful Christmas tree and Santa and his reindeer flying across the starlit sky. A beautiful gift to share with little ones this Christmas. Musical Book - The Nutcracker (+3) One magical Christmas night, a little girl’s Nutcracker doll comes to life! Little children will love pressing the pages to hear special arrangements from Tchaikovsky’s famous Nutcracker ballet. With simple text and stunning illustrations by Olga Demidova throughout and a QR code to watch scenes from the Nutcracker ballet online.
Books with Toys - Santa’s Christmas journey with wind-up sleigh (+3) Wind up the sleigh and follow Santa as he flies around the frosty night sky delivering presents on Christmas Eve. The colourful scenes with tracks embedded in the pages show Santa leaving the elves’ village, flying around a busy city, soaring over snowy mountains and landing on the rooftops to deliver presents to sleeping children.
Activity pads - Christmas activity pad (+6) This festive fun-packed pad contains 30 tear-off sheets that are sure to keep children entertained for hours. Each big page features a colourful Christmas scene, crammed full of things to spot, puzzles to solve and details to doddle and draw. The tear-off sheets are great for sharing, and answers to the puzzles are given at the back of pad.
For more book recommendations: Facebook /Shining Stars Bookshop
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We are a bespoke cupcake and celebration cake business, offering a fully personalised consultation service for all of our clients, to create the perfect cake for any special occasion. We can cater for all dietary requirements, and no job is too big or too small, so please get in touch and let us help you create a magical cake for your special day.
We can also cater for Vegans and Gluten Free cakes.
Email: info@threegirlsandacupcake.com Contact numbers: 07447 456 721 / 07921 229 296
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Get into the Christmas spirit with the wonderful selection of festive books on offer.
I am very passionate about getting children to enjoy reading and learning, in turn unlocking their imagination.
Kerry Okoluko: 0781 550 2593 Facebook: SHINING STARS BOOKSHOP Email: shiningstarsbookshop@yahoo.com https://org.usbornebooksathome.co.uk/shiningstarsbookshop/
15%
discount offered to Sophia’s diary magazine readers
Sophia’s Diary Discount Card can be used if you present the magazine or you can cut out the card. Must be shown to businesses. *All offers are subject to change and availability All offers can be viewed on www.sophias-diary.com/discounts
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Property
Out with the Old, in with the New!
A New Year brings hope, aspiration, & a fresh start for many and the property market is no different. Just like the holiday season in summer, the festive period allows people to relax & reflect on their current situation & many take the step to move house. So if this is going to be you, we thought we would give you 5 things to look out for when choosing the right agent for you;
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Do first impressions matter?
Well, they can do but don’t be too quick to decide. Probe the agent, interview them. Do they know the market or are they just a salesman? How well do they know your area? You are going to have to deal with them over a period circa 3 months so that rapport has to be there.
Monkeys Peanuts
Fees will be important but have a look at what the agent is offering if their fee is slightly higher? Ask yourself, do I go to the cheapest restaurant to be fed or do I pay slightly more for a better meal? Choosing an agent shouldn’t be any different.
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Who is holding the camera?
Estate agents are NOT photographers! Choose an agent that appoints external professionals to help showcase your property. The better it is marketed, the better price you should achieve.
Price it correctly
Let’s be honest, we all are emotionally attached to our homes so it is important to be realistic on price especially in this market. Get a minimum of 3 agents to value your house and ask for a REALISTIC valuation. We all like a challenge but ask for comparable evidence.
Length of contract
Read the agent’s terms and conditions, if they are committing you to longer than 12 weeks, be sceptical if they are confident of selling your property.
Good luck from all of us @ Rash & Rash in Southgate! 32
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Jewellery with effect
Men’s • Women’s • Children • Pets • Jewellery & Wellness Products
Come and see me at Enfield Market Thursday - Saturday
Magnetic Wellness Enfield & UK www.shereen.magnetix-wellness.com
Providing accredited First Aid, Safeguarding and First Aid for Mental Health courses. At Train 2 First Aid we are fully qualified, insured and have an enhanced DBS, We make sure we are up to date on all the latest first aid practices.
CONTACT
Call: 07400338377 email: hannah@train2firstaid.co.uk
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YOU’RE IN GOOD HANDS Sports and remedial massage therapy in Southgate Stop putting up with pain! Sports and remedial massage can help to ease the pain and discomfort of tight muscles
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Mention Sophia’s Diary when booking to get £5 off your first Special Edition massage! 33
Local Businesses
Local Child and Family Platform, Sophia’s Diary, Presents Its Second Awards Ceremony Over 17,000 people voted for their favourite local business, for the Second Sophia’s Diary’s Awards Ceremony. 200 local business members, attended the event that took place at The Penridge Suite in Arnos Grove on Friday 15th November. The room looked spectacular thanks to the amazing décor by Milana Events. Local Singer J’Ci Bonsu opened the evening with a spectacular performance. Sophia’s Diary focuses on promoting child and family-related news in the local community. A strong community has been built with parents, business members and other organisations since launching 4 years ago. Owner and founder, Andrea Krase, organised the event to celebrate the excellent work from members, and to showcase the wide range of activities, particularly for families, within the community. Local businesses kindly donated gifts too so a raffle could take place to raise money for Haven House Children’s Hospice. Donations were also made to local charity In Sue’s Name. Founder David Taylor won awards for Member of the Year and Best Charity.
Thank you to everyone that voted and supported our local business members and a huge thank you to Andri London from providing the Flower Centre Piece, Trend Story for supplying Andrea’s dress and Candy Event Décor for the beautiful Love Sign.
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The winners that were announced on the night are: Best New Business (Trading Under 18 Months) – Wish and Wonder Member of the Year – In Sue’s Name Best Baby Class in Enfield (Under 12 months) – Monkey Music Best Toddler Group in Enfield (13 - 36 months) – Monkey Music Best Pre School Class in Enfield (2 – 5 years) – Pro Elite Best Baby Class in Barnet (Under 12 months) – Monkey Music Best Toddler Group in Barnet (13 months 36 months) – Monkey Music Best Pre School Class in Barnet (2years – 5 years) - Wild Fangs Best Class for 5 – 10-year-olds – Impulse Dance Best Dance School – Streetz Ahead Best Performing Arts School – Platinum Performing Arts Best Sports Class – Pro Elite Best School Holiday Camp – Get with the Kids Vibe Best Children’s Party Planner – Teddy Tastic Best Event Supplier – The Favour Godmother Best Photographer – Peter Dyer Photographs Best Family Show – Moana and her Incredible Friends by Platinum Performing Arts Best Indoor Place to Go for Children – Fun Junction Best Outdoor Venue – Forty Hall Best Eating Out Venue – Zippola Best Hair Provider – Abbie’s Hair Best Beauty Provider - Stephanie Frances Best Wellness and Spiritual Practitioner – Train 2 First Aid Best Health Practitioner – Forever Lory Best Fitness Provider – Fitness Vibe Best Education Provider – Train 2 First Aid Best Care Provider – Harmony at Home Best Pregnancy Support Provider – Jackie’s Yoga North London Best Shopping Provider – Hashtag You Lifestyle Best Gift Provider for Adults – Togs by Emma Best Travel Provider – Marios Constantas Best Home Provider – Maria Elias PartyLite Best Trades Provider – Thor’s Trees Best Business Services Provider – Space Pro Best Charity – In Sue’s Name
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Home and Decor
MAKE MORE OF THE SPACE YOU HAVE! Montana Kitchens is just around the corner! Come and view the kitchen designs in their state-of-the-art studio where your dream kitchen will definitely come to reality! Mother and son, Angie & Gero call it ‘Architectural Therapy: An irresistible combination of slick good looks German & Italian Inspired designs’. • Appliances: Automated self-cleaning ovens, combination ovens (steam/ conventional/microwave), more efficient dishwashers, in-situ coffee machines for your household barista – new technologies just keep coming in 2020. • Bright colours: Textures and colours to deliver rich user experiences will ensure your kitchen becomes a ‘living space’ rather than just the room in which you prepare food.
• Hidden storage: Clever, hidden storage will make your kitchen a much calmer space to be. Not seeing all that clutter is surely going to spark plenty of joy. • Sustainability: While sustainability is never just a trend, in 2020 kitchens will become more eco-friendly than ever before – everything from materials and appliances to layout will be considered. • Kitchen Colour Trends: The trend of an all-white kitchen has definitely slowed down in recent times, according to Angie. While white was once all the rage, it’s now a little dated with showroom dealers now preferring to add some colour, texture and personality to kitchens.
Whether it’s modern, traditional, contemporary, they have a kitchen to fit your dwelling! Visit www.montanakitchens.co.uk for more info
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Made in Germany
Made in Germany
Visit our showroom: 9 Wades Hill London N21 1BD Call: 0208 344 8500 Visit: www.montanakitchens.co.uk
PROBABLY THE
BEST KITCHENS IN THE WORLD!
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Whether it's a complete bathroom refurb, a small plumbing repair job or a major central heating installation or a new boiler installation there’s no job too big or small for our Team.
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THE PLUMBING TEAM Monks Avenue - Barnet, EN5 1DB info@theplumbingteam.co.uk From changing a light bulb or light switch to rewiring your commercial office or home, fault finding flickering lights and EICR testing, the electrical team is on hand 24/7 for all your electrical services.
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