Aspire Essex Magazine March 2020

ASPIRE March 2020 / Issue 06

Essex FREE

THIS ISSUE

COMMON BRIDAL HAIR WOES Hair stylist Sally-Kate Duboux’s top tips for wedding hair

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: VICKI MICHELLE

How I chose the right school for my daughter

WEDDING SPECIAL Top bridal tips, hair woes and honeymoon destinations...

5 BEST BRIDAL BOUTIQUES

Luxury boutiques in Essex to get excited about

Fabulous FlowerWall Hire and pretty props perfect for all special occasions.

ITEMS FOR HIRE INCLUDE:

• Flower Wall • Donut Wall • Prosecco Wall • Table Plans • Centre Pieces • Baby Blocks • Flower Letters • Classic Drapes Contact: 07757 180363 Facebook: @biglittlebloomsessex Instagram: biglittleblooms Email: biglittlebloomsessex@gmail.com

ASPIRE March 2020 / Issue 06

Essex FREE

THIS ISSUE

COMMON BRIDAL HAIR WOES Hair stylist Sally-Kate Duboux’s top tips for wedding hair

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: VICKI MICHELLE

How I chose the right school for my daughter

WEDDING SPECIAL Top bridal tips, hair woes and honeymoon destinations...

5 BEST BRIDAL BOUTIQUES Luxury boutiques in Essex to get excited about

PUBLISHER Ross Marshall E D I TO R Michelle Marshall F E AT U R E S W R I T E R Emily Fitzgerald C R E AT I V E D I R E C TO R Jan Ibrahim S U B E D I TO R Helen Davison

W ELC O M E Spring is just around the corner, which means we can finally shake off our winter coats, and start looking forward to those warmer months. With the warm weather comes another kind of event - weddings, and lots of them! If you’re one of the lucky few heading down the aisle this year, our Wedding Special will help take the stress out of your big day. We’ve been researching luxury boutiques in Essex, if you are in search of the perfect gown, flip to page 36 for some fashion inspiration. For the grooms-to-be, don’t fear! Local tailor Lewis Yates gives his advice on tailoring your wedding suit (page 32).

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We also have bridal hair tips from hair stylist Sally-Kate Duboux (page 46), plus dream honeymoon destinations from our travel experts (page 78).

March also brings us Mother’s Day, select the perfect treat for the important woman in your life from our selection of scrumptious afternoon teas on page 104. If you have a little one in school, check out our Education sections, with an exclusive interview from Vicki Michelle, and some fab school accessories! We hope you enjoy this month’s issue as much as we do...

AC C O U N T M A N AG E R Sophie Evans C O N T R I B U TO R S Emily Norris, Liquorice Shenfield, Charlotte Civil, NikkiWillis, LewisYates, Sally-Kate Duboux ASPIRE M AG A Z I N E S Upper Floors, 226 Hutton Rd, Brentwood, Essex CM15 8PA T: 01277 283838 info@aspiremagazines.co.uk aspiremagazines.co.uk Aspire magazine is published monthly (12 times a year) @aspireessex

CO NTE NT S March 2020 / Issue 06

08 / NEWS The latest goings on in Essex - we bring you what you need to know including festivals, new restaurants and regeneration.

1 1 / W H AT ’ S O N Get your diaries ready for the top events this month from around the county. Fun runs, forest walks, art, pottery and more for you to enjoy!

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2 9 / FA S H I O N What’s on trend this month? New lingerie ranges, digital clothing and celebrity collections for you to read up on and find out why made to measure is always best.

4 1 / H E A LT H & B E AU T Y Florals, luxurious hand cream, makeup for men, teeth whitening tips and a beauty trend for you to follow.

55 / HOMES & GARDENS Kitchen trends, glamour, sophistication and the best combinations for your home. Read our tips on achieving a beautiful interior.

63 / CARS Rescues, electric SUVs and theory test changes, plus a feature on the BMW M8 which you must read about.

7 4 / T R AV E L Honeymoon destinations, travel news and a dream destination to make your wedding dreams come true.

8 7 / E D U C AT I O N We bring you the latest education news, open days and explain how growth mindset helps your little ones achieve their dreams.

9 2 / P R O P E RT Y We bring you the latest news, barn conversions and everything you need to know about Stock.

99 / FOOD & DRINK It’s March and spring is just around the corner - we have found the latest food and drink news, afternoon tea venues, seasonal recipes, and restaurants for you to visit this month.

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SUBHEAD

ESSEX NEWS J I M S H AW A N D D A I S Y C A RT E R S C O O P C OV E T E D M E N ’ S AWA R D AT 2 0 2 0 I N T E R N AT I O N A L H A I R D R E S S I N G AWA R D S

In February’s issue, Aspire spoke to Jim about his upcoming nomination at the International Hairdressing Awards.We couldn’t be more proud of his well-deserved win.

What an incredible start to 2020 for the Director and Owner of local salon, TONI&GUY Billericay. Jim Shaw, along with salon Premium Stylist, Daisy Carter, has been announced as the winner of the Best International Men’s Commercial Collection category at this year’s International Hairdressing Awards. This award recognises Jim and Daisy as the best men’s hairdressers in the world.

Around one thousand professionals from 30 different countries in the world attended the prestigious awards to 8 / Aspire / March 2020

celebrate international hairdressing. The night featured a purple carpet and runway show with some of the top hairdressing talent in the world presenting their collections prior to a glamorous awards ceremony.

The awards require professionals to submit a photographic collection and a dossier summarising their professional career in the last year. Jim and Daisy were delighted to have been presented with the Men’s Commercial Collection category at the awards; however, this is not a first for Jim, who also scooped the category last year at the awards. Jim also previously won the British Hairdressing Awards Men’s Hairdresser of the Year category in November 2019. To win for the second year running solidifies his reputation as one of the best men’s hairdressers, not only in the UK but also the world.

NEWS

BRIEF NEWS

BASILDON’S NEW ARENA In February it was announced in a Basildon council meeting that there are proposals for a 5,000 seater areana to be built in the town centre. The venue will host sporting events, music concerts and will also be a conference space for businesses. It is expected to be completed by 2022 and is part of a plan to rejuvenate the struggling town centre.

NEW FISH RESTAURANT We were excited to hear that the former owner of Smith’s restaurant in Ongar and Alec’s restaurant in Navestockside has submitted an application for a new 65 seater restaurant in Epping High Street.

W O R K S T O S TA RT ON NEW M11 JUNCTION 7A The works will start in the coming months, delivering new access from the M11 and connecting the motorway with Gilden Way, East Harlow.

H I D E AWAY F E S T I VA L Sir Tom Jones is set to headline the Hideaway Festival taking place next August in Hylands Park.

WICKFORD’S £10M R E G E N E R AT I O N Councillor Gavin Callaghan announced the plans as part of the council’s 2020/2021 budget. He said, “In Wickford, there can be no doubt that there has been decades of under investment, meaning that Wickford is now a shadow of its former-self.”

The new funding will be put towards building 21 apartments on the site of the old police station, main car park and areas around it.

FITNESS F E S T I VA L S This March the Women Like Us festivals are coming to Epping, Basildon and Chelmsford.

The This Girl Can Essex ambassadors will be headlining and making you feel welcome! Coinciding with International Women’s Day, the festivals are being held on 8 March. activeessex.org/women-likeus-festivals-2020 N E W L E E VA L L E Y ICE CENTRE Plans have been submitted to Waltham Forest Council for a new ice sports venue on Lea Bridge Road. Two Olympic-sized ice rinks will accommodate a range of sports for all ages and abilities, from ice skating, ice hockey and curling, with cafés and community spaces also on site. If approved the ice centre will cost £30 million.

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JEWELLERY AND WATCHES DESIGNER HANDBAGS AND LUXURY ITEMS Further entries invited

Contact

Jewellery and Watches: jewellery@sworder.co.uk Handbags and Luxury Items: clairehayter@sworder.co.uk 01279 817778 www.sworder.co.uk Stansted Mountfitchet | Essex | CM24 8GE STANSTED | HERTFORD | LONDON | KENT

SUBHEAD

March

TEN THINGS TO DO IN ESSEX Essex is filled with incredible sights, popular attractions and historical landmarks. Enjoy the best adventures, shopping and family fun.

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I N T E R N AT I O N A L F O R E S T D AY C E L E B R AT I O N WA L K Weald Rd, SouthWeald, Brentwood Sunday 22 March, 1pm - 3pm explore-essex.com Join rangers for a walk of Weald Country Park and discover parts of the park you may not have visited before.

The meeting point will be at the visitor’s centre. £6 per person.

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B R E N T WO O D H A L F M A R AT H O N & F U N RU N Brentwood Sunday 15 March 2020 brentwoodhalf.org This popular, well organised event starts from Becket Keys Church of England School, and passes through a long section of undulating parkland.

Includes Fun Run. “ Without doubt, one of the best organised road races of any distance, not just in Essex, but the whole country”.

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W E D D I N G S H OW AT C H E L M S F O R D R A C E C O U R S E Chelmsford City Racecourse Chelmsford Sunday 8 March, 11am - 3.30pm Attend this wedding show at Chelmsford City Racecourse on Sunday 8 March 2020, 11am 3.30pm.

FREE entry for all and a goody bag for all couples getting married! Over 150 stands including venues, live entertainment, food and drink to enjoy and much more! The first 50 couples through the door will receive a FREE BOTTLE OF PROSECCO!

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ESSEX SPRING C R A F T, F O O D & G I F T FA I R Cressing Temple Barns Witham Rd, Cressing Saturday 28 - Sunday 29 March cressingbarns.co.uk Cressing Temple Barns, one of Essex’s most popular venues will host the Spring craft food & gift fair. There will be a selection of exhibitors both inside the historic barns themselves, outside stands and in marquees. Stalls include craft, gift, home, food, drink, lifestyle and homewares.

Gate Tickets: ÂŁ6 adults

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FEVER-TREE GIN NIGHT Siennas 236 Hutton Rd, Brentwood CM15 8PA Thursday 12 March siennas-restaurant.co.uk This stunning restaurant in Shenfield High St is full of character, with its exposed concrete walls and elegant banquette seats.There will be a scrumptuous three course meal with five gins paired with Fever-tree tonics served throughout the meal.

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SUBHEAD

A RT & S I P Essex Barn, Channels Estate, Pratts Farm Lane East, LittleWaltham Wednesday 18 March, 7.30pm - 9.30pm artandsip.co.uk Professional artist and qualified art teacher James Mackenzie hosts his Art & Sip night. The new event at Channels is an opportunity to mingle with fellow painters and enthusiasts, soak up instruction from a successful artist and create a painting to take home.

A glass of prosecco should encorage the release of creative juices!

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DOME DINING Hand & Crown Sawbridgeworth As the weather gets colder, it’s time for al fresco ‘Dining in a Dome’. Get cosy in the garden, as you spend a few hours wining and dining in the comfort of your very own Dome. It’s the ultimate atmospheric space to relax, settle in with friends and family, entertain, have a meeting or celebrate that special occasion. With fantastic food and your very own waiter service, you’ll not even have to leave the Dome.

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M O T H E R ’ S D AY AFTERNOON TEA Greenwoods Hotel & Spa, Stock Road, Stock Sunday 22nd March 3.30pm - 6pm greenwoodshotel.com Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with live music in the beautiful manor lounge, plus a delicious afternoon tea consisting of homemade sandwiches, cakes and scones, all served with a choice of tea or coffee. £32.50 per person

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P O T T Y PA I N T I N G The Potty Painting Studio Shop 2, Central House, High St, Ongar, CM5 9AA thepottypaintingstudio.co.uk For some great family fun try The Potty Painting Studio in Ongar. A great opportunity to spend some quality time with your children and let your imagination run wild.

Having recently opened, there is a charming atmosphere and friendly hosts on hand to make you feel welcome.

Prices start from £4 per painter.

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T H E PA N TA L O O N S P R E S E N T : B L E A K H O U S E Hedingham Castle, Castle Hedingham Monday 30 March, doors open 6pm, show starts: 7.30pm hedinghamcastle.co.uk Join The Pantaloons for a fog-filled adventure in Victorian London.

Hilarious, tragic and romantic by turns, Dickens’ darkly comic masterpiece is retold by The Pantaloons in their own inimitable style. A company of five actor-musicians bring the novel’s cast of over 50 characters to life in a thrilling tale of love, skulduggery and spontaneous combustion…

Adults £14, Over 65s £12.50

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E MILY NO R R IS Do you have a child who will be starting school in September? The first day at primary school can be exciting and nerve-wracking, for both parents and children.We asked Emily Norris for her top tips to help ease the transition for you and your little one.

G E T T O K N OW T H E SCHOOL Make sure you attend all of your child’s ‘settling in’ sessions to familiarise yourself and your child with the school.Your child’s teacher may offer an optional home visit, which I would recommend as it is a great way for the teacher to get to know your child in their own surroundings.

PHOTO: KIKA MITCHELL

ORGANISE THE UNIFORM The school should give you a uniform checklist ahead of the summer holidays so you can buy everything in good time. Do a trial run of the uniform to check that everything fits. Make sure you buy Velcro shoes, as your child will need to be able to put them on themselves. If you buy lace-up shoes, consider investing in some elasticated laces so that they can easily slip them on and off.

M A S T E R TO I L E T TRAINING Your child is probably still asking for your help when they use the toilet. This is perfectly normal of course, but they will need to be able to do this fully independently at school. Practise wiping, flushing and washing their hands – also teach them about the importance of washing hands before eating, and how germs can make them poorly if they don’t keep their hands clean.

L A B E L E V E RY T H I N G …Even their socks! It’s amazing how much can go missing, so make sure all of their uniform is clearly labelled.You can buy easy stick-on labels, which don’t need sewing or ironing into clothes. I had my mobile number printed onto my sons’ labels (as well as their names), so that if another child goes home with their jumper, it can easily be returned.

It’s not just their clothes that need labelling; their lunchbox, water bottle, book bag, etc., will all need to be clearly named.

P R AC T I S E INDEPENDENCE Teachers are busy and won’t always be able to assist your child with basic tasks. Make sure your child can dress and undress without assistance. If they’ll be having packed lunches, make sure your child can easily open the Tupperware on their own. And if they’ll be having school dinners, make sure they can use cutlery and pour their own drink.

P R AC T I S E S C H O O L SKILLS The most important things to focus on are behaviours such as sharing, listening and manners. Role-play ‘school’ with your little one; teach them to raise their hand when they have a question and play Simon Says to practise listening skills.

Don’t worry too much about their academic level; at this stage it’s most important that they are happy and confident at school. But you can practise things like counting from 1 to 20, holding a pencil, using scissors, and possibly writing their own name. I would really recommend making sure that your child can recognise their first name when it is written down, as it will be written on everything from pegs to books in the classroom.

Above all, stay as positive as you possibly can! Your child will be looking to you for your reaction to help them work out their own response to the change of routine.

If they see that you are upset about them starting school, they might feel more anxious about it themselves, so try to be excited about the start of this next chapter. Save the tears until after you have dropped them off… and if you’re not heading into work that day, arrange to meet a friend for coffee, because you might need a hug after you wave your brave little one off - it’s a big change for you, too!

Instagram: @mrsemilynorris Youtube: @emilynorrisloves

TO P NI G H T S OUT T H IS M ON T H We’ve been out, testing bars and trying out the best restaurants around, all in the name of research!

We hope you like this month’s selection...

Aspire / March 2020 / 19

T H E L O T B A R | Ingatestone

A N T H R A C I T E | Kings Cross

Lot Bar & Restaurant is a family run business serving food made from scratch on the premises, not simply opened from a packet and warmed up. The Lot Bar believe in using (where possible), local produce from small businesses so that they can keep small independent companies like themselves in business. In the evening they offer a tapas menu designed to share with friends over a few drinks. lotbarandrestaurant.co.uk

An ultra-glamorous and sophisticated martini lounge in the stunningly beautiful Great Northern Hotel, situated in London’s exciting King’s Cross neighbourhood.

Whether you’re in the mood for an iconic martini or something more contemporary, the martinis are made with the zeal of the perfectionist. Vesper Martini, the iconic cocktail featured in Ian Fleming’s Casino Royale is a particular favourite anthracitelounge.com

PA S H A | Billericay

B A S S O O N B A R | Westminster

Modern Turkish cuisine is a combination of traditional and contemporary dishes enthused with the integrity of Ottoman cuisine coupled with the culinary influences of Eastern and Western cultures. The menu provides an extensive selection of authentic Turkish dishes to suit all tastes and only the finest, fresh produce is used. pasharestaurantlounge.co.uk

Bassoon Bar sits on the ground floor of the opulently refurbished Corinthia Hotel London, nestled just off Trafalgar Sq. Bassoon marches to its own soulful beat, with a seductive interior made for late nights and long conversations. Expect perfect cocktails, an array of Champagnes and stylish sounds. corinthia.com/london/restaurants-bars/bassoon/

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S U BNHEE W A DS

T O N T E R I A | City The late night experience commences from 11pm, where you’ll be immersed into a theatrical wonderland. If you’d like to personally add to the madness of the evening, order a bottle of alcohol from the bar and watch it arrive with a bottle show. For the more lavish why not order a round of tequila shots delivered by the ‘Tonteria Tequila Express’ train. Midnight remains a fantastical hour and whilst you may not lose a glass slipper, that doesn’t mean there won’t be magic. The infamous parade shows, pinata performances and award-winning acts are nothing short of enchanting. tonteria.co.uk/club

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INTERVIEW

I N T E RV I E W W I T H

V I C K I M IC H EL L E ActressVicki Michelle, best known from TV shows ‘Allo ‘Allo! and Emmerdale, chats to us about choosing the right school for her daughter, Louise...

Q: How did you decide which school to pick for your daughter?

Well my lovely daughter Louise is 30 now, but I remember at the time it was a difficult decision.

We wanted a private school, as we could afford it at the time, but all the schools in the area were oversubscribed; everyone was trying to get their child into the right school. The entrance exams were tough, so all the mothers were panicking a bit! There was a lot of pressure on the children as well, but Louise did really well - she was offered places at three schools, and we chose Chigwell High School in the end. We thought it offered a lot in the way of extracurricular activities - good sports, good drama clubs. The academic side is important, but we thought Louise should have outside interests as well.

Q: Did you look at other schools in the Essex area?

We looked at a few, and Louise sat the entrance exams for several schools in the area. Bancroft’s in Woodford Green was one that we liked, and I remember also looking at Braeside Girls School in Essex. But I’m glad we chose Chigwell in the end.

Q: So do you think you made the right choice?

Definitely. At Chigwell all the pupils were well-mannered; they had very high morals. There was a real sense of team effort - the pupils would help each other out, and were kind to each other. I remember thinking that was so important. Some of Louise’s best friends now are girls she knew from Chigwell - they all see each other still. The syllabus was well-rounded; there was not too much academic pressure, and the teachers really instilled confidence in the pupils. They recognised that every child is different; that children excel at different things. And she was happy there - that was the most important thing for me as a parent.

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Q:What was your own school experience like?

I went to West Hatch High School, in Chigwell, and was very happy there. It was a technical High School, so we took subjects like Shorthand Typing and Accounts, as well as the usual O Levels. When I left school, my dad said I could choose to go to either Secretarial College or Drama School. Of course, I chose Drama School - it sounded much more exciting!

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Q:What is your daughter doing now? How did her school help her get there?

My daughter is amazing - she does lots of things. She’s followed in my footsteps a little bit, doing voice-overs and acting. She also works in a PR company in London, and I think the acting has really helped with that as well!

When she was young, she was always around actors she came to watch me on set or performing on stage in Pantomimes. I think now when she talks to people in her industry, she just has that confidence. It was instilled in her from such a young age. She excels at everything she does, and I think Chigwell really helped with that; gave her that drive. She really is the most wonderful daughter.

INTERVIEW

Q: How much did you get involved as a parent (i.e. schools trips, homework, school events)?

The drama department is where I really got involved, giving advice for the school productions or overseeing some of the drama sessions. There was a fund for the drama centre, which all the parents contributed to, so it was nice to see that part of the school thriving. I still think drama is so important for schoolkids - it teaches them how to stand, how to speak. It really does give them confidence. The sports days at Chigwell were also a lot of fun - all the parents would get really competitive in the parents’ race!

Q: Did you have to deal with any sensitive issues with your child, such as bullying? How did the school handle these situations?

No, nothing like that. The school really instilled a sense of kindness in its pupils; there was no bullying, not that I know of anyway. I think the school would have dealt with these kinds of issues very quickly and efficiently.

Aspire / March 2020 / 25

It isn’t too late to book your wedding at one of the most beautiful locations in Essex. Hylands Estate still has key dates available for 2020 – contact our wedding team to make it happen.

Hylands House, Hylands Estate, London Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8WQ www.hylandsestate.co.uk | hylands@chelmsford.gov.uk | 01245 605500

We can accommodate weddings of every size at our historic venue. The Grand Pavilion is the perfect space for a big celebration for up to 300 guests, but if an intimate wedding is more your style, there are plenty of gorgeous period rooms to choose from within our famous neoclassical villa.

At Hylands Estate we help couples plan the wedding they really want rather than simply telling them what they can have. We understand that flexibility is incredibly important to our customers and our prices are completely dry hire, which means that couples may choose their own food, drink and entertainment.

Our award-winning events and wedding team are always on hand from the very first enquiry right through to the wedding day itself – call us on 01245 605500 to book a viewing.

“From the moment we met the team, we were taken through the whole process in great detail, with the overarching sense that no stone would be left unturned in order to make our day perfect.”

“We only saw Hylands and one other venue before making the decision that no other venue would give us a combination of flexibility, beautiful views, a manor but modern house and of course staff that showed nothing but understanding for our vision from day one.”

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS: FRASER PARRY PHOTOGRAPHY • SOTTU PHOTOGRAPHY • EYESHINE PHOTOGRAPHY

300 Capacity • Exclusive Venue Hire • Dry Hire Venue • Civil Ceremonies • Religious Ceremonies • Prayer Rooms Available • Segregation • Bridal Suite • Parkland Views • Free Onsite Parking • Kitchen Facilities

Welcome to Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital If you need to see a consultant or have medical treatment, there’s no need to wait. Choose Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital and be seen in as little as 24 hours and treated in just 2 weeks.* Pay for yourself, take an interest-free loan or use your private medical insurance and get the treatment you need – fast. No waiting lists… just award-winning healthcare.

As the UK’s largest healthcare charity, we’ve been looking after the health of the nation for more than 60 years. We don’t have shareholders, which means we always put patients first, re-investing into improving the services we provide.

Meet our experts at a free event Completely free and open to all, our events are your opportunity to listen, learn and talk to our highly qualified team of experts. For our full list of hospital events, visit nuffieldhealth.com/book

Cosmetic surgery

Weight loss surgery

Thursday 19 March 2020 From 6:30pm with Ms Kallirroi Tzafetta, Consultant Plastic Surgeon.

Thursday 26 March 2020 At 6:30pm with Mr Sanjay Agrawal, Consultant Bariatric Surgeon.

Ear pinning and nose reshaping

Knee surgery

Thursday 19 March 2020 From 6:30pm with Mr Paul Chatrath, Consultant ENT Surgeon.

Wednesday 1 April 2020 At 6:30pm with Prof Kevin Cheah, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and Mr Jesse Holloway, Physiotherapist.

Cataract surgery Tuesday 24 March 2020 At 6:30pm with Mr Niaz Islam, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon.

Haemorrhoids Thursday 26 March 2020 From 6:30pm with Mr Veerana Shatkar, Consultant General Surgeon.

Children’s ear, nose and throat disorders Monday 20 April 2020 At 6:30pm with Mr Anurag Jain, Consultant ENT Surgeon.

Women’s health – menopause and HRT Wednesday 22 April 2020 At 6:30pm with Miss Seema Bagtharia, Consultant Gynaecologist and Mrs Linda Griffin, Men’s and Women’s Health Physiotherapist.

To book your place or find out more, go to nuffieldhealth.com/book or call 01277 886943 *Time frames indicated may vary depending on choice of consultant, type of diagnostic investigation, and procedure package. A referral may be required before a consultation or diagnostics. ^Interest-free loans are subject to status and provided by our medical finance partner.

J10800-177 Brentwood Hospital Aspire Magazine 290h x 210w.indd 1

10/02/2020 11:14

FASHION

FA S H I O N We’ve been shopping on your behalf, and this is what we found...

HARVEY NICHOLS Constellation sequin-embellished tulle midi dress. Elegantly crafted from pink tulle and embellished with floral sequins, Self-Portrait’s fierce Constellation dress brings a high-octane edge to a classic silhouette. Boasting a figure-hugging bodice that gently cascades to a full tiered skirt, this flattering style is finished with sheer inserts and a black, waist-emphasising trim. £360, harveynichols.com Aspire/ March 2020 / 29

BRIEF NEWS

LINGERIE WITH A TWIST The new Antonia range from Rosa Faia plays around with stylish elements of seductive lace and sophisticated pinstripes, all wonderfully incorporated into a balconette bra. The black finish accentuates the sensual allure, while the crystal elements add a romantic twist.

C E N T R E C O U RT T O RU N WAY Serena Williams has debuted her Spring 2020 collection at New York Fashion week, with a major factor in the collection being its appeal to diversity. serenawilliams.com

Bra £62, £27 pants; Pretty Things, Buckhurst Hill prettythingsuk.co.uk

FASHION N EW S

What you need to know. Because life’s too short to wear boring clothes...

CHIC SECOND-HAND Sustainable fashion is a trend that’s not going anywhere and now Hollywood’s on board, with stars at the Oscars showcasing some fabulous vintage and second-hand gowns. Saoirse Ronan took to the Red Carpet in a repurposed Gucci gown, whilst Elizabeth Banks reused an outfit from 2004. Our favourite has to be Margot Robbie, who came draped in vintage Chanel. The perfect inspiration to dig through our own wardrobes...

W E D D I N G H E AV E N If you’re heading down the aisle this year, make sure you head to London Bridal Fashion Week first. The event features an array of bridal designers from all over the world, representing the very best of the bridal industry.

See wedding dresses come to life in a full-length fashion show, or visit the Champagne Bar for drinks, food and live music.

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FA S H I O N WA S T E H&M has announced that it will be the first retailer to sell clothing made from circulose, a material made from 100% fashion waste.

This is the first time up-cycled garments will be sold on scale. h&m.com

D I G I TA L C L OT H I N G Gabriela Hearst is adding a very modern twist to her SS20 collection, giving each garment a ‘digital identity’.

Customers will be able to access the story behind their garment by scanning QR codes on the labels. gabrielahearst.com SAMSUNG MODELS THOM B R OW N E Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Flip made its debut at New York Fashion Week, after getting a makeover from designer Thom Browne.

SUBHEAD

ON TREND

VIBRANT L E AT H E R S Colourful leathers are set to make their mark this year, having been seen all over the Spring runways.This fabric can be worn in almost any form, from colourful coats to buttery skirts and trousers.The trick with this trend is to be brave.

Pair bright colours together and don’t be afraid to add accessories to the mix. Spring in 2020 is all about colour - the bolder the better!

As seen on Rochas runway SS20.

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FASHION

LEWIS YAT E S Billericay’s Lewis Tweddell talks us through why Made-to-Measure is always the best way to perfect your big day.

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Q.Tell us about Lewis Yates - what was the inspiration behind the made-to-measure tailoring business?

Lewis Yates was launched in 2008 with the concept of bringing fresh and exclusive fashion to the men and women of Essex. After winning some industry accolades, 7 Years later we introduced our individual tailoring service offering Made to Measure at an affordable price for the modern day gent. We wanted to offer something fresh to the market, working with German company Bernhardt who boast the best sewing machines in the world. With a dedication to perfection, we pride our service as a reliable and creative experience, with the customers wishes at the heart of it all.

From body measurements to aesthetic details, our service culminates to a fine quality suit with a step towards sartorial excellence.

Due to the success of our made to measure service we recently expanded our tailoring section within the shop making it a focal feature and adding to the personalised service we offer here at Lewis Yates.

Q. Do you think that made-to-measure tailoring is becoming more popular with the move towards sustainable fashion?

In terms of the history of made to measure suiting, it was a novelty for most gents to have a tailored made suit often from locations such as Saville Row but offering a made to tailoring service locally has increased in popularity. We have found that our gents are willing to invest in a product that will have longevity, having the unique experience of made to measure is a luxury so they will invest in this rather than looking for throwaway suiting. Our cloth mills we use from around the world have sustainability at the forefront with brands such as Dormeuil who directly control the source and quality of wool used in their fabrics, fostering the principles of sustainable growth and contributing to its promotion. This is a unique selling point in our made to measure service.

On the whole, what does Lewis Yates as a brand hope to achieve, or inspire in people?

As a brand we try to inspire all our customers, existing and new. We put our customers first in every decision we make, trying to offer something different from your high street store. We are in an area which isn’t at the forefront of men’s tailoring such as Savile Row, so our aim is to inspire people to shop locally, introducing key trends at competitive prices. We also pride ourselves on our personalised service and feel this is why we have a high success rate with returning customers and positive recommendations.

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FASHION

What do you think makes a good tailored outfit, and a bad one?

For me personally, a good suit starts with a good fit. In order to obtain this, we invite customers to have regular fitting sessions to ensure we get the right fit for them and their body shape. Every customer is different, we have to adapt to their individual needs whilst offering our professional opinion based on what’s worked and not worked previously. The cloth we choose is also fundamental in what makes a good tailored suit and has to be fit for purpose, whether it’s your business suit or for a special occasion. I enjoy the little finishing touches the most, whether it’s a colorful buttonhole or simply their initials, making their suit individual to them and attention to detail.

A bad suit? I hope I never make one!

Is there a piece, or are there any pieces, that you are most proud of?

I would say the piece that I am most proud of and started my made to measure journey was my own wedding suit. I initially went to London, in particular Saville Row to search for a wedding suit and came away feeling that a lot of what I was seeing was either old fashioned or uninspiring. I came away with ideas of what I wanted and the look I was aiming for but only able to achieve through bespoke suiting. This then led me to research made to measure suiting and my first piece was my wedding suit. I thoroughly enjoyed taking the time to get the perfect cloth, colour and style. And again, attention to detail, I also focused on the finishing touches like my suit lining and contrasting buttonholes to match the colour theme of the wedding. The images from my wedding day also led to future custom and a basis for a lot of my wedding suiting that I produce today.

What advice would you give to anybody looking to get into the fashion industry? Particularly the tailoring sector?

My advice would be for anyone looking to get into the fashion industry and particularly the tailoring sector would be to have a passion in what you do because this is what drives you to be ambitious and successful. Fashion for me is not just my job but I live and breathe it everyday and enjoy sharing this with my customers.

If there was just one tailored item we should all have in our wardrobes, what should it be?

I would say a key item to have in your wardrobe is one tailor made suit that can lend itself to different occasions be it work or formal. I always recommend in my client consultations navy suiting as I feel it stands out amongst your standard formal black or grey suit and is also the most versatile in terms of lending itself to different occasions and colour scheme’s. Furthermore I do suggest that having a three piece suit as opposed to just your standard two piece makes your suit even more adaptable and individual.

80 High Street, Billericay, Essex CM12 9BT +44 (0)1277 634 835 info@lewisyates.com

Aspire / March 2020 / 35

SEARCHING FOR THE DRESS As wedding season approaches, we’ve picked out the best luxury boutiques in Essex.

The ideal guide for any discerning bride-to-be.

Choosing the perfect dress is one of the most daunting pre-wedding tasks for brides. Pick the wrong store and you can spend hours trying on dresses that don’t fit, look better on the hanger, or for whatever reason just aren’t ‘you’.

Finding the right shop is a necessary first step in finding the right dress. Luckily for you, we’ve handpicked the best wedding boutiques in Essex, with award-winning services, bespoke tailoring and of course a selection of the most gorgeous dresses. These boutiques are all about luxury, offering the very best in bridal design. So whether it’s a fairytale dress that you want, or boho chic, these boutiques will help you to find ‘The One’...

T H E W H I T E W E D D I N G H O U S E , B R E N T WO O D Best for: The Instagram bride The White Wedding House is one of Essex’s most beautiful bridal boutiques. Set on the sprawling grounds of a private country estate and overlooking its own lake, this boutique provides a picturesque setting to try on bridal gowns. Inside, brides have the whole boutique to themselves, a red carpet catwalk, and plenty of refreshments provided for guests. The White Wedding House carries seven designers, each picked specifically for their uniqueness and exclusivity.

36 / Aspire / March 2020

FASHION

Aspire / March 2020 / 37

G R AC E & L AC E , C H E L M S F O R D

F L E U R D E LY S , S A F F R O N WA L D O N

Best for: The modern bride

Best for: The attention-to-detail bride

Grace & Lace offers feminine wedding and bridesmaid dresses with a modern twist. This boutique is run by sisters Julie and Donna, who have over 29 years’ experience in bridalwear. Their collections are selected from the top European and International designers, featuring a mixture of contemporary and classic designs.

We particularly love this modern sculpted gown, with spaghetti straps and lace bodice.

Award-winning bridal store Fleur De Lys is all about the finishing touches. They have some gorgeous accessories, from glittering jewellery and tiaras to cascading ivory veils. They firmly believe that envisioning your dream wedding dress can only be done with all the finer details in place, so whether it’s a stand-out veil you’re looking for, or some eye-drawing shoes, make sure to pay this boutique a visit.

38 / Aspire / March 2020

FASHION

S E R E N A B R I DA L , W I C K F O R D

T H E B E S P O K E WA R D R O B E , I N G AT E S T O N E

Best for: The uncomplicated bride

Best for: The fairytale bride

Ever since Meghan Markle stunned us with her understated Givenchy gown, minimalism has been in. Serena Bridal stock a range of styles, but we are drawn to their simpler dresses, from structured satins to more lightweight, dreamy pieces. If you are looking to emulate Markle’s simpler style, try this understated crepe dress, with high neckline and subtle detail around the waist.

The Bespoke Wardrobe has gained an excellent reputation within Essex and the bridal industry, showcasing dresses by the UK’s best designers. Whether it’s a magnificent cream gown that you want, or gossamer lace, The Bespoke Wardrobe has an enviable selection, carefully chosen for their shape defining corsetry and embellishments. Each gown is bespoke-made for the bride, and they offer a made-to-measure service and in house tailoring. Their veils are hand worked, made from dreamy tulles and silks.

Aspire / March 2020 / 39

Innovative, current, & eective,

permanent make-up & bespoke skincare solutions

www.glowskin.co.uk 07540 851 972

By Appointment Only

Aspire.indd 1

carly@glowskin.co.uk Essex House, 118 High Street, Ongar, Essex CM5 9EB

27/01/2020 13:31

HEALTH & BEAUTY

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

From Spring make-up trends to fantastic new products, we offer you the best in beauty this month...

C O O L G L OW C H E E K T I N T This cool-to-the-touch, lightweight gel blush instantly creates radiance and adds dimension to cheeks. ÂŁ28.00, elizabetharden.co.uk Aspire / March 2020 / 41

BRIEF NEWS

FLORALS? FOR SPRING? It just wouldn’t be spring without some florals, and one of our favourite designs this month comes from Paperchase, usually known for its stationery products.

We love this bold red and pink washbag, complete with zip to keep all of your makeup products safe. Since the flowery design suits all ages, why not fill this bag with beauty products as a treat for mum this Mother’s Day?

H E A LTH & BEAUTY N EW S

Exclusive news, tips and beauty must-haves for this month...

ANTII N F L A M M AT O RY HAND CREAM This luxurious hand cream from Green Stem’s CBD skincare collection is fortified with nourishing essential oils to leave your skin smooth, soft and sensationally supple.

Infused with pure CBD ethically grown in Colorado, Green Stem’s luxury hand cream aids anti-inflammation and supports the skin’s natural healing process. £20, greenstemcbd.com

A G E L E S S B E AU T Y Just under half of women over the age of 50 ‘don’t feel seen’ by the beauty industry, says new research conducted by L’Oreal Paris. That looks set to change in 2020, with brands like L’Oreal, Clarins and Boots No7 tipped to be developing products specifically for post-menopausal women. These brands will move away from generic ‘anti-ageing’ creams and focus on more specific concerns. We hope to see these products on shelves over the coming months...

42 / March 2020 / Aspire

COCONUT TEETH WHITENER Gwyneth Paltrow has recommended oil pulling to us, swishing coconut oil around in your mouth - as the best home remedy for whiter teeth. Measure out one tablespoon of coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth for 20 minutes, being careful not to swallow any.

PERSONALISED B E AU T Y Beauty brands are set to take a more personalised approach this year, with technology being developed to assess a person’s microbiome (microorganisms in the body), DNA and deterioration of skin.

RO S E N ’ RO S E S Our favourite perfume this month is Miss Dior Rose N’Roses, a sparkling floral fragrance with zest of Bergamot and white musk.The perfect accompaniment for Spring.

MAKE-UP FOR MEN Beauty brands for men are on the rise, with Tom Ford and YSL successfully selling concealers, foundations and bronzers for men.The aim of these brands is to break down misconceptions and offer practical make-up solutions for men.

ON TREND

M A K E U P TO THE MAX Spring makeup has hit the runways, and designers weren’t afraid to shy away this year. Models sported bright neon eyeshadows, bejewelled lashes and intensely coloured eyeliners. If you want to recreate this look, add a touch of sparkle to your eyes with a glittery eyeshadow, or go all out with bright sapphire eyes.

Your chance to meet the experts

At Spire Hartswood Hospital we offer a range of preventive and innovative treatment options for conditions that are specific to the needs of your body.

Come along to our free mini consultation evenings, you’ll have the opportunity to meet our experts, discuss your symptoms and the treatment options available to you.

Upcoming events at Spire Hartswood Hospital:

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Cosmetic, from 7pm Mr M Sood, Consultant Plastic and Hand Surgeon

22

Varicose veins, from 7pm Mr S Jacob, Consultant General Surgeon

22

Snoring, from 7pm Mr P Chatrath, Consultant ENT Surgeon

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Upper limb, from 7pm Mr A Al-Sabti, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Mar

Apr

Apr

May

Book to see an expert today Search ‘Spire Hartswood Hospital’ Call 01277 575 491 *Mini consultations are an opportunity to ask any questions you have and are not a formal outpatient consultation. If you wish to proceed to surgery or your consultant suggests that further treatment may be necessary, a full outpatient appointment will be required to assess your suitability for surgery/treatment.

ADVERTORIAL

DO YO U N EED A PH YS IOTH ER A PIS T FOR ‘D OW N T H ERE’?

Aishling Burke is a Chartered Physiotherapist and a specialist working in the field of men and women’s health. With a clinic at Spire Hartswood Hospital, Aishling treats individuals who experience pelvic floor dysfunction, prolapse, pain with intercourse, and those with breast, gynaecological and prostate cancer.

Women have been having babies and going through the menopause since the dawn of time. Sometimes this can result in an incredible amount of stress and strain on our body and that’s where physiotherapy steps in.

W H AT I S P E LV I C H E A LT H P H Y S I O T H E R A P Y ?

More commonly known as ‘women’s health physiotherapy’, this is the field of physiotherapy that: Treats women before or after childbirth Helps women as they transition into the peri/menopausal period Assists with gynaecological surgery during and after female cancer surgery and treatment T H E FAC T S : During pregnancy 75% of women experience urinary incontinence (leakage of urine), while 45% of women still report leakage 7 years after the birth of their children 60% of women postnatally will notice Diastasis Recti (separation of the tummy muscles) at 6 weeks, and if left untreated it can contribute to a weak, unstable core and pelvic floor problems With decreasing levels of estrogen during the perimenopausal period, women can report vaginal discomfort with intercourse or notice a heaviness within their vagina, or notice that they need to get up to ‘spend a penny’ at night Despite the high incidence of leakage, muscle separation or vaginal discomfort, it’s shocking how many women aren’t seeking help or being assessed for these conditions. Healthcare providers are very focused on our mental health after childbirth (and rightly so), but what has taken a back seat is checking a woman’s pelvic floor, or assessing scar tissue that’s developed after a c-section or episiotomy.

S H O U L D YO U S E E K H E L P F R O M A W O M E N ’ S H E A LT H P H Y S I O T H E R A P I S T ?

Once a parent, we are always post-natal, so going to a women’s health physiotherapist can occur at whatever stage in life you are in. We don’t judge - we talk, ask questions and with your consent, assess your posture, how you breathe, check for tummy muscle separation and perform a vaginal examination that checks your pelvic floor muscles’ strength and endurance. It might sound a little scary but honestly it’s not! It proves to be a great way for women to get an understanding of their pelvic floor and how to engage their muscles properly.

Aishling Burke will be holding a free information evening in May. For more information, or to book an appointment, contact 01277 575 491

COMMON BRIDAL HAIR WOES Sally-Kate Duboux is a bridal & occasion hair stylist based in Hockley, Essex. As a highly trained professional, she understands the importance of having the right look for you on your wedding day. Here she offers tips on how to deal with those common bridal hair woes.

Q: How do I choose a hairstyle for my big day?

I highly recommend getting on Pinterest and pinning anything that gives you a spark of joy. If you’re anything like me, you’ll lose hours scrolling through, with one bridal hairstyle picture leading to thousands more. By creating mood boards and communicating these with your hairstylist, he or she can start to have a good understanding of what styles you like.

There are so many different styles out there, so if you’re stuck I’m not surprised!

But by seeing your mood boards and getting to know you (fundamental ingredient), your hairstylist will start to build up a picture of who you are.Things like how you wear your hair day-to-day can be just as important as how you wear your hair on a night out. After all, your partner wants to recognise you when you walk down the aisle!

TOP TIP: Follow your hairstylist’s advice prior to your trial.This helps optimise on time and maximises styling results, giving you the best experience!

46 / Aspire / March 2020

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Aspire / March 2020 / 47

Q: How do I make the most of my hairstyle during posed photos?

This is such a common question. Now I’m no photographer, but once your hair trial is complete I like to take portrait headshots, predominantly focusing on your beautifully styled hair. The photographs are a good reference for me, but you will also be able to see how your chosen style looks on camera.

out your ‘better’ side, deciding whether you should pose on the left or right side of your partner. It’s little details like this that will really showcase your hair, and ensure that you look your very best in wedding photos. We simply don’t want ‘Oh I wish I’d done this or that with my hair’ when looking back at your wedding album.

Taking portrait headshots allows us to establish if your hair needs to be brought over one shoulder, cascade down your back or simply all be brought forward.You can also work

TOP TIP: Bring your hair accessories and/or wedding veil to your trial as this gives you an accurate picture of what you’ll look like on your big day.

48 / Aspire / March 2020

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Q:What do I do if I want my hair down but it just doesn’t curl?

This is every straight haired girl’s nightmare, myself included! Unfortunately there isn’t an easy answer, but I do have some useful tips.

If you are a regular user of straightners, please put them down! This doesn’t have to be permanent, but before the wedding you need to give your hair a rest. Straightened hair doesn’t like to be tampered with, usually inhibiting the curl and its longevity. This could be the culprit for those curls dropping out.

I would also recommend that brides get their hair trimmed every 10-12 weeks (if you’re growing it out), and if you can afford to chop more off the length, every 4-6 weeks. Healthy hair and happy ends style much better! The right product and hair prep can also help keep hairstyles in place. L’Oreal Techni Art Pli is a personal favourite of mine for curled bridal styles, alongside my GHD curling tong.

Tips and tricks aside, clear communication combined with a hair trial will set your mind at ease before the big day.

Hair trials are a chance to get to know your stylist and experiment with two or three hairstyles over a glass or two of Prosecco.

Aspire / March 2020 / 49

W H Y C H O O S E N U FFIELD H EA LT H B R EN T WO O D H O S PITA L FO R YO UR H IP R E P L AC EMEN T TR EATMEN T? Are you suffering from prolonged hip pain? At Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital, our experienced team of orthopaedic surgeons are experts in lower limb procedures and provide quick access to hip replacement surgery.

If you are considering hip replacement surgery, our leading orthopaedic consultants at Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital are here to help. All of our surgeons possess a wealth of experience in joint replacement. They have built an exceptional reputation in Essex for their high rate of successful patient outcomes for their hip replacement procedures.

Our hospital in Brentwood has been leading the way for private orthopaedic care in Essex for a number of years. Our hospital is situated close to Brentwood

railway station and the M25, which makes us easily accessible for patients travelling from London and surrounding towns. We also offer free parking for patients and visitors.

Periodically we provide orthopaedic open events  at our hospital, which are free to attend for the public.

Here you will get the opportunity to meet an orthopaedic surgeon, learn more about the causes of hip pain and ask any questions you may have about hip replacement surgery or the hospital.

W H Y M I G H T YO U N E E D H I P R E P L A C E M E N T S U R G E RY ?

Over time the surfaces of the hip joint can start to wear This can be caused by osteoarthritis or a previous injury Osteoarthritis is painful as the hip joint becomes stiff and inflamed when the smooth lining between the joints gets damaged or wears away Without the protection of this important lining, the rough surfaces of your bones rub together, causing pain Everyday tasks like going for a walk or even getting dressed become difficult Unfortunately, there’s no cure for osteoarthritis and it can get worse with time However, joints like the hip(s) can be replaced successfully, improving your mobility and reducing pain.

H OW T O B O O K A C O N S U LTAT I O N If you are interested in hip replacement surgery or want expert advice from a professional, you will need to book a private consultation with one of our orthopaedic experts before proceeding with any

treatment. To book a consultation at Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital or to secure your place at an open event, please call our dedicated hospital enquiry team on 01277 886 943.

You can read more about our Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons on our website www.nuffieldhealth.com

SUBHEAD

January 2020 / Aspire / 4

HEALTH & BEAUTY

SILK MUSLINS What is the secret of beautiful skin? The answer may lie in the type of face cloth you use. In Japan it has long been believed that using silk cloths to cleanse kept skin looking young and beautiful. Now, thanks to British company This is Silk these luxurious cloths are available in the UK. There is even the science to back up the claims since it has been proven that the proteins in silk reduce the appearance of fine lines and speed up cellular regeneration of the skin. These 100% silk cloths nourish skin, whilst gently exfoliating, leaving it brighter and smoother.

Owner of This is Silk, Sonal Keay said “Silk is highly regarded for its natural affinity with our skin and in recent times, its anti-ageing and skin-healing properties have become more widely known. They work especially well with an oil-based cleanser, where skin will be left thoroughly revitalised and radiant, cleansed of all makeup, debris and pollution.”

The cloths are made using a unique weaving process that resembles the ever-popular muslins but with all the enhanced benefits of silk. To maximise the benefits to skin the cloths are undyed. To maximise the benefits to everyone’s time the cloths are machine washable.

The box of three cloths come with their own signature gift box and cost £24.99 including UK postage.

To find out more visit www.thisissilk.com 53 / March 2020 / Aspire

WEDDING SPECIAL On your special day, keep the little ones entertained with our kids Zen Den. It is the perfect space to keep your little guests entertained, and a place to rest weary heads.

Bleubell Tents work all year round providing indoor and outdoor solutions with lots of themes for your sleepover goals!

We work with you to achieve the best for your child, and pride ourselves on our attention to detail.

We also provide double beds for family glamping.

info@bleubelltents.com 07795 565220 & 07711 380983

HOMES & GARDENS

HOMES & GARDENS

From luxury pieces to Mother’s Day treats, here are our favourite home trends for this month...

B U C K I N G H A M F R E E - S TA N D I N G C A S T I R O N B AT H Free-standing baths are a hot trend for this year, and our favourite is this cast iron beauty from Heritage Baths. With a white ripple enamel interior, and intricately designed iron claw feet, this is the perfect centre-piece for your bathroom. ÂŁ1,575, heritagebathrooms.com Aspire / March 2020 / 55

BRIEF NEWS

M O RO C C O N V I B E S Anthropologie has launched its Spring 2020 home collection, and we’re loving this Moroccon inspired coffee table. Handcrafted using inlaid bone, and with techniques first developed in Ancient Egypt, this table is a unique centre-piece for your living room. With authentic Moroccon tilework and an antique brass base, this table adds instant luxury to any space.

Targua Moroccon Oval Coffee Table, £1,198, anthropologie.com

PLASTIC PLANTS Sales of plastic plants are on the rise, and it’s easy to see why these low-maintenance plants are so popular. However, plastic plants don’t support the biodiversity of wildlife and birds, so make sure you include some real plantlife in your garden.

H OME S & G ARDE NS N EWS

A round-up of top home and garden trends to keep you ahead of the game...

WO N D E R F U L M U M Treat your mum this Mother’s Day with this scented candle from Katie Loxton. Infused with fresh lychee flower, and including a ‘Wonderful Mum’ embellishment in gold, this gift will be sure to make your mum feel cherished this Mother’s Day. Katie Loxton Home Sweet Home Scented Candle, £16.99, available at John Lewis 56 / March 2020 / Aspire

L OV E I S L A N D GARDEN The Ideal Home Show is bursting with ideas for your home. Join the nation’s favourite gardener, Alan Titchmarsh, as he shares top tips for your garden, or property expert Phil Spencer, who gives advice for those first time buyers. For Love Island fans, head over to a Love Island themed garden, hosted by ITV. Brightly coloured beanbags, strings of colourful fairy lights, and expert tips on how to recreate the Love Island look.

27 March - 13 April, Olympia London

LONDON DESIGN WEEK The 8 March sees the start of London Design Week, bringing together top designers and exhibiting the most stunning collections of this year’s designs.

8-13 March; Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour S M A RT B AT H R O O M S Kohler has launched a smart showerhead, with Alexa speaker built in. Blast your music in the shower, with surround-sound effect acoustics.

Moxie Shower Head & Speaker, £234, kohler.co.uk H A R RO D S INTERIORS Harrods has unveiled its new Interiors department, with bespoke personalisation services and dedicated rooms for beds, linens, kitchens and household accessories. harrods.com

SUBHEAD

ON TREND

S TA R S I N YO U R EYES Search the skies for this new home style, with astronomy inspired designs becoming this years’ hottest trend.Think planetary patterns, moon-effect marble or our favourite, this celestial wall motif by New Ravenna. Designs to leave us all starry-eyed.

January 2020 / Aspire / 4

The kitchen plays a vital role in the home and for many it’s the main focal point. New kitchen trends emerge all the time, often greatly influenced by advances in technology and evolving fashions. Here,Wren Kitchens Design Director DarrenWatts reveals his top ten kitchen trends for 2020...

R AW M AT E R I A L S In kitchen design the use of raw materials which are rich in tones and textures will continue to rise in popularity.

This is especially true for naturally inspired colours and patinas such as marble, copper, concrete, slate and rust which offer a unique aesthetic. It’s proving exceptionally popular for an on-trend industrial look, especially for focal islands, towers and splashbacks.

C L E V E R , C O N C E A L E D S TO R AG E Sliding doors and hidden drawers are not just versatile in allowing you to discreetly tuck away appliances, they 58 / Aspire / March 2020

also maximise every available space. For those without unlimited kitchen space, storage is absolutely essential for creating an un-cluttered feeling in the space and a nice environment to live in.

S TAT E M E N T TA P S & H A N D L E S The popularity of feature taps continues to grow.

There are a vast array of finishes and styles now available that make it easy to make your tap a statement piece.

Brass, industrial-looking taps with unusual handles and interesting features are a great way to draw the eye

and complement the space, especially when paired with similar finishes for cupboard and draw grips.

E C O - F R I E N D LY M AT E R I A L S Sustainability and the environment are hot topics at the moment. Choose sustainably sourced products and alternatives for solid timber made kitchens such as MFC which is one of the most eco-friendly wood-based products available. If you do choose timber, make sure it’s FSC certified. To replace real-wood worktops, luxury laminate is a great option.

BOLD AND OPULENT CABINETS Typically white is used for a ‘classic’ kitchen look, but taking risks with contrasts of darker colours is becoming a theme.

Dark kitchen cabinets represent an elegance and a rich luxurious aesthetic, casting drama over the room with deep dark blacks, forest greens and luxe blueberry. Team it with metallics and statement flooring, but remember to pair it back with neutral tiles, paint finishes or even exposed brick to ensure your space isn’t overpowered.

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E A RT H Y C O L O U R PA L E T T E S Choosing the colour of your kitchen walls can become overwhelming with the abundance of choice on offer.

Blush pinks, nude peaches and soft stone greys are always versatile options especially when toning down deep, dark cabinetry. These neutral tones create a soft, warm and atmospheric feel.

P E N DA N T L I G H T I N G Lighting is a key element of any living space, as not only does it create ambience and atmosphere - it impacts 60 / Aspire / March 2020

on the design as well. Pendant lighting is proving to be a popular choice, but it’s essential to choose the right style and size to complement your kitchen design.

From singular hanging glass, to geometric clusters and stylish exposed wire designs, there is something to suit everyone’s taste.

INDUSTRIAL VIBES Modern, industrial-inspired kitchens are a practical and easy-to-love design. The style can be recreated in both big and small spaces and is built to last, with some

HOMES & GARDENS

kitchen units made from characterful, strong steel.

Achieving an industrial style kitchen is a great way to get inventive, so enjoy the process of creating your own unique masterpiece. When it comes to appliances, stainless steel is a great choice as it creates a commercial vibe. For the finishing touches, edgy hanging pendants are the perfect light fitting to bring your kitchen to life.

you to show off your favourite crockery, trailing plants and quirky items, as well as a handy solution for quickly reaching your pasta and rice jars. However, if the idea of complete open shelving scares you a little, opt for glass-fronted feature units to show off your prized possessions.

O P E N S H E LV I N G Something as simple as rustic, open shelving can make a great feature in your kitchen. Shelving is key in enabling Aspire/ March 2020 / 61

C O M M E R C I A L & D O M E S T I C C L E A N I N G S E RV I C E S

C O M M E R C I A L C L E A N I N G • C O N S T RU C T I O N C L E A N I N G • RESIDENTIAL CLEANING • CARPET CLEANING

C OV E R I N G L O N D O N & E S S E X BOOK WITH OUR INSURED CLEANERS T H E P I N K C L E A N I N G. C O. U K T : 0 1 7 0 8 3 7 1 2 5 1 • E : I N F O @ T H E P I N K C L E A N I N G. C O. U K

CARS

CARS

The motor industry is constantly evolving - read our features on the latest models to join the crowd.

LEXUS LC Taken from the award-winning LF-LC concept and turned into a stunning production car. The Lexus LC isn’t simply a 2+2 coupé that will captivate you with its gorgeous aesthetics, it’s been perfected by a team of over 4,000 designers, engineers and technicians.

Price from £78,150, lexus.co.uk/car-models/lc/

Aspire / March 2020 / 63

V i C T o R i a L o d g E i S a fa M i Ly RU n H a i R S a L o n i n T H E H E a RT o f U p M i n S T E R

O u r s e rv i c e s H i g h l i g h t s • H a i r c o l o u r i n g • B r a z i l l i a n B l o w d ry • H a i r e x t e n s i o n s • Men’s styling • Children’s styling 4 8 S t at i o n Ro a d , U p m i n s t e r , E s s e x , R M 1 4 2 T R . T : 0 1 7 0 8 6 4 0 4 4 8

CARS

BRIEF NEWS

A S T O N M A RT I N RESCUE DEAL A consortium led by billionaire Lawrence Stroll is looking to buy a majority stake in the road division of Aston Martin. As part of a reported £500m package deal Mr Stroll will take a 20% stake in Aston Martin and become executive chairman. The carmaker said its latest financial moves were aimed at strengthening its balance sheet after its “disappointing performance” in 2019. astonmartin.com

ALL ELECTRIC HUMMER The Hummer name returns for 2020. GMC, one of General Motors’ SUV brands in North America has resurrected the Hummer brand and will use it for an all-new electric SUV. gmc.com

MOTO R N EWS

Classic motors and modern day supercars - enjoy our marvellous March news C A R T H E O RY TEST CHANGES Learner drivers hoping to get behind the wheel from April this year will have to pass a new type of theory test designed to make the system fairer for everyone, including those with learning difficulties. The new theory test changes will kick in on 14 April for learners across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

T H E N E W AU D I R S Q 3 S P O RT B A C K The stunning new RS Q3 Sportback, with sweptback coupé-like styling and fearsome 400PS five-cylinder firepower, is set to take a bow. With a 17 per cent power increase, the 2.5 TFSI engine can sprint from zero to 62mph in a blisteringly 4.5 seconds. Just like its RS Q3 sibling, the RS Q3 Sportback is a full five-seater. audi.co.uk

BAN ON P E T RO L , H Y B R I D & DIESEL CARS F RO M 2 0 3 5 The UK Government has confirmed that it will ban the sale of new petrol, diesel and hybrid cars from 2035.The plans are a bigger step than its original commitment of 2040, which didn’t include electrified vehicles at the time. gov.uk HOLDEN BRAND TO C E A S E I N AU S T R A L I A The Holden brand will be retired by 2021 in Australia and local design and engineering departments shuttered, General Motors has confirmed. holden.com.au N E W S KO D A ELECTRIC SUV Skoda has announced the name of its first fully-electric SUV, which will be called Enyaq when it goes on sale later in 2020. skoda.co.uk

March 2020 / Aspire / 65

SUBHEAD

BMW M8 BMW M GmbH enters the next phase of its model offensive in the luxury segment with a brace of four-door high-performance sports cars.

1 / September 2019 / Aspire

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September 2019 / Aspire / 2

THE BMW M8 COMPETITION COUPÉ BMW M is embarking on its first foray into the world of luxury motoring with two new high-performance sports cars, the BMW M8 Competition Coupé and M8 Competition Convertible.

PERFORMANCE The new models derive their performance from the most powerful engine ever developed for a BMW M GmbH car: a high-revving V8 unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology developing 625hp. Two turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, direct injection with increased pressure, plus cooling and oil supply systems designed for driving at the limit on the track combine to deliver supreme performance and handling. The performance-focused character of the engine and transmission enables the BMW M8 Competition Coupé to sprint from zero to 62 mph in 3.2 seconds and from zero to 124 mph in 10.6 seconds.

INTERIOR The interior design features red accents on the M leather steering wheel’s M buttons and the start/ stop button on the centre console.

The newly designed transmission selector lever with Drivelogic switch is leather-surfaced with an embedded M logo and stitching in M GmbH colours. The newly developed sports seats have perforated 3D quilting, pronounced side bolsters, clearly defined shoulder areas and integral head restraints with illuminated model badges. Full Merino leather trim is standard, and both cars come 68 / Aspire / March 2020

exclusively with bicolour leather/ Alcantara trim. The standard-fit M Sport seats feature the BMW Individual headliner.

The BMW Live Cockpit Professional also brings the benefits of the new BMW Operating System 7.0 to the M8 Competition models. Its fully digital screen grouping comprises a high-resolution instrument cluster behind the steering wheel with a screen diagonal of 12.3 inches and a 10.25-inch Control Display. The driver has a choice of the Control Display’s touchscreen, the familiar iDrive Touch Controller, the controls on the steering wheel, voice control or BMW’s gesture control.

THE M MODE The M Mode button on the centre console making its debut in the new BMW M8 Competition models can be used to alter both the responses of the driver assistance systems and the information shown in the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display. M Mode allows the driver to activate ROAD, SPORT and a TRACK setting. Changing the mode alters the information presented to the driver on the screens, while the safety- enhancing interventions by the driver assistance systems – such as active braking or steering inputs – are reduced to a bare minimum or deactivated altogether.

The all-new BMW M8 Coupé and Convertible is on sale from now with prices starting from £123,435 OTR.

CARS

Aspire / February 2020 / 71

SUBHEAD

ASTON MARTIN DBX An SUV with the soul of a sports car 1 / September 2019 / Aspire

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September 2019 / Aspire / 2

A bold new chapter and a landmark moment in Aston Martin’s illustrious 106-year history, Aston Martin has today unveiled its first SUV and a model that will propel the brand to new heights worldwide. That model is DBX. PERFORMANCE Powered by a new version of the characterful 4-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine found in DB11 and Vantage, DBX features an impressive output of 550PS and 700NM of torque, carefully tuned to meet the specific needs of this model.

With a sound character that is unquestionably Aston Martin, the active exhaust system ensures this is a luxury SUV that can sound refined one moment and exhilarating the next. The engine’s versatility isn’t restricted to its vocals either; the turbocharged V8 has cylinder deactivation to enhance fuel economy, yet it can also propel DBX from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 181mph.

INTERIOR The luxuriously handcrafted interior of DBX has been designed to provide equal space and comfort whether sitting in the front or rear of the car.

Class-leading headroom and legroom combines with a full-length glass panoramic roof and frameless door glass to offer a fantastically light and spacious cabin environment. The use of sports car seat packaging in the front not only provides the driver 72 / Aspire / March 2020

with exceptional support and long-distance driving comfort, but also provides knee and footwell clearance for those sitting behind.

Small touches throughout, including separate central armrests, glovebox design and the ergonomic positioning of the car’s key control systems, have been guided carefully by the input of the brand’s Female Advisory Board, dealership feedback and a variety of private focus groups held worldwide. Not limited to this area, the guidance provided has been key to the success of DBX’s overall design.

EXTERIOR DBX’s exterior works as hard as the interior at bringing the elegance of Aston Martin’s sports cars into the world of the SUV. From the signature ‘DB’ grille at the front, through the sculptured sides and design feature line, to the tailgate with a flip that draws inspiration from Vantage, this is an Aston Martin from first glance to detailed inspection. Beautiful details like the hidden side glass seals on the frameless doors and glass B-pillar finishers add an elegant sleekness and confidence to the stance. Cutaway sills also assist in narrowing the stepover required to enter the sumptuous cabin, while reducing the risk of ruining a fine dress or suit on arrival to a dinner engagement.

Starting price of £158,000 OTR.

CARS

Aspire / February 2020 / 71

SUBHEAD

YOUR INDEPENDENT

The

Travel Boutique TRAVEL AGENT

Wherever you want to go, whenever you want to go, we will help you plan that unforgettable Travel adventure in 2020 & Beyond

Find us at 140 Hutton Road, ShenďŹ eld, Essex, CM15 8NL 01277 563193 myholiday@thetravelboutique.co.uk www.facebook.com/www.thetravelboutique.co.uk @ thetravelboutique1 www.thetravelboutique.co.uk 1 / January 2020 / Aspire

TRAVEL

T R AV E L

Perfect time to start planning your next adventure...where will you be going next?

M I N T T R AV E L T E C H - T I DY The Bookaroo travel tech-tidy is the perfect accessory for traveling in style. Modern life means cables, chargers and headphones - that is, if you want to stay connected to the outside world. This travel case is versatile, with elasticated loops to fit a range of cables and travel essentials. It also rolls up, fitting neatly into hand luggage. ÂŁ20, daisypark.co.uk Aspire / March 2020 / 75

BRIEF NEWS

B L U E PA S S P O RT S The first blue passports are launching in March 2020, following the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union. In addition to the colour change, the new design features the floral emblems of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland on the back. These passports are made with the latest printing techniques, ensuring that copies will be more difficult to forge, and protecting passport owners against identity theft. Those who have an original burgundy passport can continue to use it until it expires.

C O R O N OV I RU S SPREAD With over 30 countries infected by Coronovirus, travel experts reveal which countries are the safest to travel to. Safe countries include Turkey, Barbados, Jamaica and Mexico, whilst the most dangerous are China, Singapore and Japan.

TR AVEL N EWS

Our favourite worldwide travel stories, ready to inspire your next holiday...

EC O C OFFEE We’re all about sustainability here at Aspire, and so what’s better than this Ecoffee cup from the National Trust. Made from organic bamboo fibres and wrapped in one of William Morris’s famous designs, this cup is the perfect accompaniment for your morning commute. £12, shop.nationaltrust.org

O R G A N I S E D T R AV E L We’re getting organised this March, and really appreciating this set of two travel bags from Oliver Bonas. In a small and large size, the bags are printed with eye-catching geometric designs in sun-drenched colours.

With one for laundry and another just for undies, you can be organised wherever you are in the world. £19.50, oliverbonas.com 76 / Aspire / March 2020

D E S T I N AT I O N C A P E T OW N Virgin Atlantic has announced a new daily seasonal service flying between London Heathrow and Cape Town.

The service will begin in October 2020, allowing UK travellers to explore South Africa this winter.

P E T H O L I D AY S According to hotel platform booking.com, 42 percent of holidaymakers choose their holiday destination based on whether they can take their pets with them, and almost half would pay more to stay somewhere pet friendly.

RISE OF THE FRIENDMOON Rather than taking a honeymoon, ‘friendmoons’ are on the rise - the holiday you take after getting married, but with friends asked along.

According to figures, more couples are embracing the idea of an inclusive friendmoon, celebrating their nuptials in the company of close friends.

SUBHEAD

I D EAL BACK D RO P F O R E TE R NAL LOV E

The glorious gardens and refined rooms of the Hotel Villa Cimbrone make it a unique, elegant location and the ideal backdrop for couples declaring their eternal love for each other. Expert staff will advise you in the preparation of a personalised approach for the most wonderful day of your lives, taking care of every aspect: from the choice of the setting and the flower arrangements to the music and the entertainment of the guests.

Great care is taken over the food. The delicious traditional dishes of Campania are made using fresh organic ingredients from the gardens of the Villa. Fine wines to complement the cuisine are expertly chosen by their sommeliers from a well stocked cellar. hotelvillacimbrone.com January 2020 / Aspire / 4

T H E U LT I M AT E SOUTH AFRICAN HONEYMOON EXPERIENCES Serious relaxation with a touch of exploration, South Africa is so much more than just a fly-and-flop Honeymoon!

Honeymooning in a land of contrasts, what could be better! From the north to the Cape Peninsula, South Africa is beguiling in every sense.You will be truly spoilt for choice with so much to discover. South Africa is a year-round destination however the most popular times to visit are between November and March.

78 / Aspire / March 2020

Take a scenic road trip along the Garden Route renowned for its incredible natural beauty and charming towns. Be captivated by a Big Five safari in the Eastern Cape with enthralling game drives and luxury tented accommodation. Tour the verdant valleys of the Winelands and take the cable car up Table

Mountain for the most incredible views over cosmopolitan Cape Town.

Whatever you desire we can recommend the very best South African adventures for you and tailormake the ultimate honeymoon experience.

TRAVEL

T H E C I T Y R E T R E AT The exclusive One&Only Cape Town has stunning views of Table Mountain.

It is the epitome of urban resort chic.

The vibrant Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront is within walking distance, shoulder to shoulder with wonderful eateries, shops and attractions.

one of Cape Town’s most popular restaurants, an innovative blend of classic Japanese-Peruvian cuisine and South African seafood and spices. The One&Only Cape Town is also home to the spectacular tri-level Wine Loft which houses the largest collection of South African vintages in the world.

A gourmet paradise, the food truly sets the One&Only Cape Town apart with spectacular afternoon tea at Vista Bar & Lounge and a range of restaurants including Nobu

The resort’s rooms and suites are Cape Town’s largest and 40 of them are set on an adjacent private ‘island’ for an extra touch of privacy with a vast outdoor pool and spa retreat.

T H E G A M E R E S E RV E Lion Sands Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s most exclusive safari experiences where you can spot the mighty Big Five. It is the only private reserve to feature lodges both in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and Kruger National Park. Nothing divides the two which means the wildlife viewing opportunities here are sensational.

while River Lodge and Ivory Lodge have 20 suites on the Sabi Sand side.

The Sabie River flows in-between two sides, you’re likely to spot wildlife wandering past your suite. While they differ in size and location each suite is designed for complete seclusion and is simply irresistible.

Safari in Style in four comfortable, stylish and classically romantic lodges; Narina Lodge and Tinga Lodge with just nine suites, each with a plunge pool are found on the Kruger side,

Lion Sands also has three incredible treehouses that you can choose to stay in overnight – Chalkley, Kingston and Tinyeleti with panoramic views and a four-poster bed under a canopy of stars.

THE EXCLUSIVE S A FA R I L O D G E Set on the edge of Kruger National Park in South Africa’s Western sector of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, luxury safari lodge Ulusaba is a member of Virgin Limited Edition’s award-winning collection of retreats and Sir Richard Branson’s impressive safari lodge set within more than 30,000 acres of rich game reserve.

This boutique retreat boasts just 21 rooms which are far from ordinary. Some are conical-roofed houses located on hillsides or treehouse-style suites reached by rope bridges and raised walkways resembling something out of Lord of the Rings.

T H E V I N E YA R D H OT E L Mont Rochelle is yet another of Sir Richard Branson’s South African jewels.

The stunning 26-bedroom hotel and vineyard is just under an hour’s drive from Cape Town in the traditional vineyard town of Franschhoek in the Western Cape Province.

Famously known as the French Corner of the Cape, it is considered the food and wine capital.

Occupying 39 hectares of vineyards Mont Rochelle is situated in an area internationally renowned for stunning scenery. Its unique hilltop setting affords undulating views over the Klein Dassenberg mountain range.

80 / Aspire / March 2020

The Safari Lodge has an incredible Spa. The Aroma Boma Spa sits 800 feet above the savannah with awe-inspiring views. A cellar showcases the best of the country’s wine, and rangers are on hand to organise a stargazing evening out in the bush, a memorable sundowner spot or romantic table for dinner somewhere magical.

No request is too much.

The best African cuisine can be savoured here with menus and dishes influenced by the changing seasons.

Enjoy candlelit dining under a star-filled sky or a more leisurely ‘braai’ a traditional South African BBQ with freshly baked breads and pastries baked onsite daily.

Blanketed with boutique charm, all rooms are named after locally grown wines for example the ‘Cabernet Rooms’ are furnished with local fabrics and are spacious and bright.

Tour the cellars or explore the paths between vineyard plots.

Enjoy the house wines on a private terrace or dining with perfectly paired wines at Miko restaurant, which serves locally sourced ingredients.

There’s a heated outdoor pool with mountain views plus Spa with two treatment rooms and hammam. Indulge in bespoke treatments using local products by Africology made with natural plant extracts and essential oils or try the Signature facial which uses grapes from the vineyard!

T W I N YO U R S O U T H A F R I C A H O N E Y M O O N W I T H A R E L A X I N G B E AC H B R E A K I N T H E I N D I A N O C E A N If you prefer a more tropical affair, how about twinning your Southern Africa adventure with a blissful beachfront retreat in Mauritius?

SHANGRI-LA’S LE T O U E S S R O K R E S O RT & S PA Nestled on the quiet shores of Trou d’Eau Douce, this luxurious private

hideaway embodies the true spirit of Mauritius. With uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean from its exclusive accommodations and sandy white beaches at your

doorstep. Indulge in trendy dining experiences, private island retreats or tee off at the Bernhard Langer-designed championship 18-hole golf course.

O N E & O N LY L E S A I N T GÉRAN This stunning resort on the Belle Mare Peninsula is the perfect retreat for guests seeking lavish accommodation in an elegant setting and backdrop of white sand beaches and azure ocean. Romance and relaxation are key here. All rooms and suites feature enhanced

outdoor spaces with private terrace or balcony facing the ocean, exclusive beach or enchanting private lagoon and have direct beach access. Dining is an experience to remember. Savour Pan-Asian cuisine and seasonal Mauritian seafood in beautiful alfresco settings including both over-water and ocean-view restaurants.

The Travel Boutique, Shenfield, can tailormake a South Africa and Indian Ocean Honeymoon itinerary just for you with the assistance of the ‘Africa Collection’. Contact our Luxury Travel Experts to find out more:The Travel Boutique, 140 Hutton Road, Shenfield, Essex, CM15 8NL, 01277 563193, www.thetravelboutique.co.uk 81 / March 2020 / Aspire

82 / Aspire / March 2020

TRAVEL

R AG DA L E HALL Ragdale Hall is a multi award-winning spa in the Leicestershire countryside. It combines state-of-the-art facilities with traditionalVictorian architecture, creating one of the most luxurious spas in the country.

83 / March 2020 / Aspire

Ragdale Hall owners, Michael Isaacs and Penny Nesbitt, want their guests to enjoy a visit that exceeds expectations. They believe that through commitment to the smallest detail, guests can relax and unwind while being supported by the professional and friendly Ragdale Team.

Their team of over 520 staff gives an unrivalled guest-to-staff ratio, enabling them to provide specialist services such as a dedicated Guest Liaison team, valet parking and attention to individual guest requirements.

84 / Aspire / March 2020

This approach certainly seems to be the right one - the spa’s return rate for guests is over 80%, and they have an average daily occupancy of 99%.

Ragdale Hall offers world class facilities, with six pools, a Rooftop Infinity Pool, Thermal Spa and Mind Gym. All treatments and classes are exclusive, created by the experts at Ragdale Hall and tailored especially for guests.

Its owners believe that all aspects of the spa should blend and work together, from treatments and meditation

classes to the healthy, nutritious food served in its restaurants.

A stand-out facility in the spa is the Candle Pool, an enchanting mosaic cavern illuminated by the flicker of candles. Guests can truly relax in this magical haven, with warm water heated to a constant 34 degrees, and a vast star-lit ceiling overhead.

The outside Waterfall Pool is another treat for guests, with numerous bays and inlets carved into the pool’s

structure, allowing residents to enjoy the massaging jets. In winter, steam and mist will rise from the pool, creating the feeling of bathing in a hidden lagoon.

Two-night weekend breaks start from £426 per person, including all meals, inclusive treatments and use of facilities, and a complimentary robe throughout your stay.

Spa Day packages range from £65 - £261, and midweek breaks from £364 per person.

85 / March 2020 / Aspire

The best investment you’ll ever make Leading all-round education with pupil wellbeing at its heart. Give your child the space to thrive with our variety of flexible boarding and day options, based in stunning North Essex.

Daily bus routes from across the region.

OPEN MORNING (AGES 4-18) : SATURDAY 2 MAY 2020 Book your place or sign up to one of our Taster Sessions here:

www.felsted.org/opendays A few places remain in Yrs Rec-4 for September 2020 entry.

Please contact the Admissions Office to find out more or arrange an individual visit: admissions@felsted.org / 01371 822605

Developing character, making a difference.

Independent, Co-educational, ages 4-18, boarding & day.

felsted.org

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#felstedfamily

24/02/2020 09:36:16

EDUCATION

E D U C AT I O N This month we bring you the latest education news, open days and everything you need to know about growth mindset...

M I N I W I N D S O R L E AT H E R B A C K PA C K Send your little one off in style with this classic handmade bag. The Mini Windsor can be customised to complement your child’s personality, and for a small fee can be monogrammed.

Prices start from ÂŁ148, leathersatchel.co.uk

Aspire / March 2020 / 87

BRIEF NEWS

C L I M AT E C H A N G E More schoolchildren are complaining that schools are failing to prepare them for a climate emergency. Joe Brindle, 17, has founded Teach the Future, a group which calls for an environmental haul of education. He thinks that schoolchildren want to understand more about climate change, but argues that teachers are constrained by limited budgets and the demands of an exam system.

He hopes to get to a point where climate science and sustainability are taught in UK schools.

NEW SCHOOLS IN ESSEX Plans have been revealed to build five new free schools in Essex, including three in Basildon.

Another will be a primary in Witham, and Catalyst Academies Trust wants to open a new school in Thurrock. Proposals will need to be approved by the government before any plans go ahead.

EDUC ATI O N N E WS

From stationery must-haves to syllabus changes, here’s the latest in school news.

M U D P L AY In this fast-moving world of smartphones and tablets, encouraging your kids to play outdoors is proving more challenging.These animal themed wellies from Regatta might just do the trick, with a range of colourful designs to choose from. Splash around in pink unicorns, green dinosaurs or, our favourite, these blue shark boots. Each pair is made from vegan-friendly rubber with a drawcord to ensure legs and feet stay nice and dry. £35, Regatta 88 / March 2020 / Aspire

E L E C T RO N I C GSCES It has been announced that pupils in Wales could sit their GCSE exams online in future. As part of a major overhaul of the curriculum, pupils would no longer use pens and paper but sit all of their exams at a computer. Some think that online exams would better reflect the digital society in which these teenagers operate. Others point out that reading from a paper copy allows for better concentration, and that technical issues could disrupt students mid-exam.

SCHOOL NURSES D RO P P I N G The number of nurses in schools has fallen in the last four years by 11 percent, prompting fears that pupils’ lives are being put at risk.

In some cases, teachers are being asked to carry out medical procedures, such as injections, without adequate training or support.

T E R M D AT E S 2 0 2 0 The full term dates have been released for 2020, allowing parents to book that long-awaited summer holiday. This year most schools break up between July 20th - 22th, and return on the 1st September. Check with your child’s school before booking your holiday!

S M A RT N O T E B O O K Rocketbook has released a smart notebook which is connected to your cloud services. Write with a pen on the pad and a replica of the page will appear on your phone or tablet. The notebook is also reusable - add a drop of water, and the writing disappears like magic. £34.99, Rocketbook

EDUCATION

OPEN DAY S 2020

School Area Telephone General Open Day St John’s School

Billericay

01277 623 070

11 March 2020 & 22 April 2020

Brentwood School Brentwood 01277 243239 7 March 2020 Woodlands (Great Warley)

Brentwood

01277 245595

7 March 2020

Woodlands (Hutton Manor)

Brentwood

01277 245595

21 March 2020

Herington House

Brentwood

01277 211595

29 February 2020

Ursuline Brentwood 01277 227152 Upon request Braeside

Buckhurst Hill

020 8504 1133

5 March 2020

Daiglen School

Buckhurst Hill

020 8504 7108

18 March 2020

Dame Bradbury (Stephen Perse Foundation)

Cambridge

01223 454700

3 October 2020

Elm Green Chelmsford 01245 225230 6 July 2020 New Hall Chelmsford 01245 236 098 2 May 2020 Widford Lodge Chelmsford 01245 352581 15 May 2020 Chigwell Chigwell 020 8501 5702 26 September 2020 Colchester High School

Colchester

01206 573 389

7,17,19 March 2020 & 5,7 May 2020

Holmwood House Prep

Colchester

01206 574305

20 March 2020

Lexden Lodge Colchester 01206 574 005 TBA Oxford House School Colchester 01206 576686 25 March 2020 Heathcote Prep Danbury 01245 223131 22 April 2020 St Anne’s Prep Danbury 01245 353 488 7 May 2020 Coopersale Epping 01992 577133 3 March 2020 Felsted

Felsted

01371 822600

2 May 2020

St Philomena’s Catholic School

Frinton-On-Sea

01255 674 492

24 April 2020

Gidea Park College

Gidea Park, Romford

01708 740381

14 March 2020

St Mary’s Hare Park

Gidea Park, Romford

01708761220

7 March 2020

Gosfield Halstead 01787 474040 7 March 2020 St Margaret’s Halstead 01787 472134 24 March 22020 Saint Nicholas Harlow 01279 429 910 7 March 22020 Raphael Independent Hornchurch 01708 744735 4 March 22020 Park School for Girls

Ilford

020 8554 2466

29 February 2020

St Michael’s School

Leigh-On-Sea

01702 478719

6 & 7 March 2020

Oaklands Loughton 020 8508 3517 5 March 2020 Maldon Court Prep School Maldon 01621 853529 Upon request Normanhurst North Chingford 020 8529 4307 6 March 2020 Alleyn Court Southend-On-Sea 01702 582 553 24 April 2020 Thorpe Hall School Southend-On-Sea 01702 582 340 October 2020 Woodford Green

Woodford Green

020 8504 5045

2 October 2020

Bancroft Woodford Green 020 8506 6751 TBA St Aubyn’s School

Woodford Green

020 8504 1577

12 March 2020

Avon House

Woodford Green

020 8504 1749

26 February 2020

March 2020 / Aspire / 89

G ROW TH MI ND SE T NikkiWillis is a Primary School Headteacher who has taught in all year groups and is passionate about creating a growth mindset culture in schools. She is enthusiastic about learning and wants children to remember their primary years as a happy, fun learning experience. Dressing up as a land girl is just part of the job.

The need for our children to develop a growth mindset has never been more important in a world where resilience and learning is fundamental to a happier life.

Not only in reference to academic or social success, but in a world where managing our mental health is more important - growth mindset is a key element to changing our thinking for the better.

The term growth mindset was first used by Carol Dweck over 30 years ago and her research began when she studied how children dealt with failure at school. Some children and adults have a fixed mindset which means that failure is seen as an ‘end’ to learning and they are unwilling to try new experiences because of fear they will fail. This mindset of course leads to children and adults not reaching their full potential or feeling they can’t try.

90 / Aspire / March 2020

In contrast having a growth mindset enables us to see failure as a learning opportunity, see mistakes as a golden chance to learn more and this means we are able to try new things and learn more without fearing failure.

Children who have a growth mindset understand that good learning comes from effort, they are resilient to failure and see this as an opportunity to learn. They see challenge as a positive in their life which will lead to better results in all they do.

However, we aren’t born with a growth mindset and my work particularly focuses on how school life can support and teach this mindset to our young people. As parents and carers there are steps you can take to create a growth mindset environment at home to nurture this way of thinking.

EDUCATION

W H AT C A N I D O A S A PA R E N T T O N U RT U R E A G R OW T H MINDSET? Model challenge as a family - show your children the excitement and wonder in a challenge – if they see you enjoying a challenge and taking a risk, they will see it’s ok to try.

Create a mistake culture – mistakes are a good learning tool and if you have a growth mindset you know this. In your family, talk openly about mistakes and what you’ve learnt from them. Try not to make them the hidden secret and any mistake means you’re doomed!

Use the word YET! – change your language when you are faced with a child who says ‘I can’t do’.

Ensure the word yet is inserted into these conversations.

Praise effort not outcomes – we sometimes don’t get the exact outcome we all want but we’ve tried really hard, praise this not the outcome. Try saying ‘I can see how hard you have worked building that model, I love the detail’ Stop Helicopter parenting – it is so tempting to swoop in and solve problems for your child, but sometimes the little problems and mistakes need to be dealt with by them so they can experience that obstacles can be overcome.

Encourage risk taking – not the dangerous kind! But try to encourage taking a risk, such as a new activity or club at school. Even if they don’t get the outcome they wanted they will have experienced risk, which is key to developing a growth mindset.

‘Growth Mindset – A practical guide’ is available from amazon.co.uk Instagram: @willis_home_diaries

Aspire / March 2020 / 71

P RO P E RT Y Statistics, news and our favourite area this month...

R E E D P O N D H O U S E , I N G AT E S T O N E A substantial family residence in a private setting, offering substantial five bedroom accommodation with planning permission for a substantial orangery to the rear elevation that offers views across beautiful formal grounds including part owned lake with privately owned island.

Guide Price ÂŁ2,000,000-ÂŁ2,150,000, Beresfords Ingatestone 01277 350614 92 / Aspire / March 2020

BRIEF NEWS

L U X U RY B A R N CONVERSION A spectacular modern barn conversion near Bishop’s Stortford has been put on the market for £1.75m. The home is an ode to modern living, with rooms created in glass pods and a large space in the centre of the barn used as a car park.

Before it was converted, the ancient barn dated back to 1300. The owners retained its unique history by preserving the beautifully structured beams, giving large parts of the house a rustic feel. £1.75m, mullucks.co.uk

O P E N S PAC E S Open spaces in homes is a popular property trend for 2020, with the integration of kitchen and living room a much sought-after asset. This trend opens up space in the home, creating a more sociable environment for families.

PROPERT Y NEWS

Where are people buying & what’s going on in the property market this month?

BREXIT BOUNCE Homeowners could be in for a good year, with data from Rightmove showing that asking prices have increased by 2.3% since the general election. January saw the biggest month-on-month rise since the site launched its platform in 2002, and the trend doesn’t appear to be slowing down, with both buyers and sellers returning to the market. However there is no guarantee that prices will continue to rise throughout the year - the boost could simply be a short-term reaction to the greater political certainty following the general election.

AU T O M AT E D HOMES Automated home systems are an upward trend for 2020, used to control the temperature, light and security of homes.

Smart buildings offer users greater support, whilst reducing the consumption of energy and household bills.

Users can opt for the popular Amazon Alexa, or alternative devices like Google Home and Apple HomePod.

NOISECANCELLING HOMES Increasingly more architectural projects are being carried out with noise in mind (or ears).

Designers of new builds are using materials that muffle sounds within buildings, and cancel the noise from outside.

WO R L D ’ S SKINNIEST S K YS C R A P E R The world’s thinnest skyscraper, situated on Billionaires’ Row in NYC, will be finished this year. It is 24 times taller than it is wide and can only fit one residence per floor.

FIRE SAFETY In 2020, around 300 UK buildings are still clad in flammable ACM material. This issue should return to the public gaze as phase two of the Grenfell Tower inquiry gets under way.

March 2020 / Aspire / 93

W E L OV E S TO C K With excellent pubs, and a quintessentially English feel, we explore the little village of Stock...

Many people living in Essex have never heard of Stock, a small village situated just south of Chelmsford.

But whilst it may be small, over the past ten years it has been steadily growing, even likened to the ‘West End’ by some residents thanks to its large variety of elegant pubs 94 / Aspire / March 2020

and restaurants. The village has also been described as idyllic, attracting residents who want the village lifestyle without taking themselves too far out of London.

There is a proper sense of community in Stock, with friendly

locals who know each other by name, and a good selection of independent shops, including a florist, an off-license and a little artisan coffee shop. In summer the village is like something from a bygone era, with a quaint summer fete and cricket on the green.

PROPERTY

H I S T O RY

D AY S O U T

The village of Stock is one of the highest points in Essex, situated over 300 feet above sea level. The highest vantage point in the village is the meadow land around the Catholic Church of Our Lady, and was probably an Iron Age Settlement before the Roman occupation. Until recent times the High Street was a narrow lane with muddy tracks fifteen inches deep, and often had a queue of wagons stuck in the mud. Highwaymen, who typically robbed passengers at gunpoint, spent a lot of time on this route, taking booty from the travellers who found themselves stuck in traffic.

The best time to visit Stock is over the summer, when the village truly embraces its quintessentially English charm. The cricket club is a great attraction, with onlookers sprawling on the grass to watch the sport, or visiting the club bar for a drink or two in the sun. The highlight of Stock’s calendar has to be its annual summer festival, with associated dinner dance and fete. On Midsummer’s evening, residents gather for the dinner dance, whilst the fete takes place the following day, featuring Morris dancing, a tombola and exhibitions of vintage cars and books.

L I F E T O D AY

HOUSE PRICES

Today Stock is a thriving village, best known for the great surrounding pubs and restaurants. Local pubs include The Bear, The Hoop and The Baker’s Arms, with lots of other pubs sitting on the outskirts of the village. For residents’ convenience, there is a Post Office and village store, as well as a small restaurant, Dandelion and Burdock Kitchen and Lounge. Holidaymakers can stay at the village hotel, The Harvard Inn, situated on Stock’s leafy High Street.

Living in Stock comes at a premium, with the average house price coming in at just under a million. The housing market does well here, attracting a largely affluent ‘commuter’ demographic for who the rural village lifestyle appeals. Since last year house prices have been rising, although there are cheaper options for buyers - a two bedroom cottage or three bedroom semi-detached house costs just over £500k. Transport links into the city are good, with trains from nearby stations Billericay and Chelmsford taking just over half an hour.

SHOPPING Although Stock doesn’t have much in the way of High Street shopping, residents are easily within reach of numerous shopping centres. Head to nearby Ingatestone for shops like Marks & Spencer and Next, or slightly further out to Chelmsford for a wider selection of High Street stores. The Stock village shop has a variety of household products and food, including some fresh produce and hot food to go.

SCHOOLS Stock’s local school is Stock Church of England Primary, rated good by Ofsted. The best secondary schools are located in nearby Chelmsford, with King Edward VI Grammar and Chelmsford County High for Girls both ranked outstanding by Ofsted.

King Edward VI Grammar was also ranked 16th by GCSE results in 2019, with 92 percent of its students achieving above a Grade A. Primary schools in Chelmsford are also rated highly, with Newlands Spring and The Tyrrells coming out on top.

Aspire / March 2020 / 95

S TO C K

HIGH STREET EDWARD TAYLOR HAIR Multi award-winning boutique hair salon. Relax, put your feet up and know you are in the best hands. Leave feeling fabulous.

STOCK FLORIST A beautiful flower shop providing the finest hand-cut flowers.

Specialising in Weddings, Flower School and Flower Shop.

DANDELION & BURDOCK Boutique style restaurant/cafe run by husband and wife team.

The ‘hub’ of the village with a fresh New England appeal.

20 Mill Road, Stock, Ingatestone, CM4 9LJ 01277 829772 edwardtaylorhair.com

18 Mill Road, Stock, Ingatestone, CM4 9LJ 01277 840350 stockflorist.co.uk

20 The Square, Stock, Ingatestone, CM4 9LH 01277 829772 dandelion-burdock.co.uk

THE HARVARD INN Dating back to the 15th century, The Harvard Inn is full of charm and character. Offering luxury accommodation, restaurant and wine bar.

GREENWOODS HOTEL & SPA Grade II Listed 17th Century manor house which has been lovingly restored. 39 bedrooms, 3 function rooms, AA rosette awarded restaurant, spa, hair salon and fitness suite.

Stock Road, Stock, Ingatestone, CM4 9BE 01277 829990 greenwoodshotel.co.uk

THE HOOP Boasting no music, no fruit machines and no TV, The Hoop offers an award winning selection of real ales and gastro pub food in a traditional pub atmosphere.

HIgh Street, Stock, Ingatestone, CM4 9BJ 01277 840008 theharvardinn.co.uk

21 High Street, Stock, Ingatestone, CM4 9BD 01277 841137 thehoop.co.uk

TO P 3

EVENTS GREENWOODS HOTEL & SPA 90’S PARTY Rewind to the 90’s with entertainment from resident DJ! Feel nostalgic as you dance the evening away to the most popular tunes of the 90’s decade. Buffet served. Over 18’s only.

14 March, 7pm - midnight £39 per person DANDELION & BURDOCK KITCHEN & LOUNGE TAPAS NIGHT Pop up Tapas evening every Friday. Booking is essential.

Great tapas food with live entertainment. Book early to avoid disappointment. £30 per person.

01277829772 dandelion-burdock.co.uk

01277 829990 greenwoodshotel.com

THE HOOP BEER FESTIVAL There is only one place to be over the bank holiday weekend. Essex’s most famous pub beer festival. Food available all day from Posh Patties. Over 100 real ales and 80 ciders. Strictly over 18’s.

24-27 May, 12pm start

01277 841137 thehoop.co.uk

Sienn a s h ave c reate d a g r eat fu s io n of Br it i s h d i s h e s c om p l im en t e d b y a r ela xed an d atten tive serv ic e in a m in d - b l ow in g p er fec t ly d e signe d h av e n.

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FOOD & DRINK

FOOD & DRINK Our top food news this month plus our recommendations for Mother’s Day teas...

NECTVS True British Spirit brings you Nectvs, created from fruit grown and hand-picked from the Bardsley Estate in the Garden of England. Enjoy these spirits after dinner as a digestif, over ice or with tonic or other mixers to create a refreshing long drink.

Nectvs Apricot Spirit 34% ABV 50cl Apricot Spirit is like a British day in springtime with bursts of sweetness perfectly balanced by zesty citrus. The aromas of this refreshing spirit combine notes of heather and almond.

Nectvs Plum Spirit 34% ABV 50cl The richness of the autumnal palette gives way to a comforting whisper of spicy cinnamon. The deep flavour is born of hand-picked single-estate plums.

ÂŁ90, truebritishspirit.com Aspire / March 2020 / 99

BRIEF NEWS

TA S T E O F LONDON Join London’s top restaurants and celebrity chefs for the ultimate alfresco feast in Regent’s Park. Regent’s Park hosts the festival over 5 days where restaurants show off the hottest dishes. You can watch live cooking demonstrations, meet leading chefs, participate in masterclasses and shop at more than 200 food and drink stalls. london.tastefestivals.com

S E S S I O N S A RT S C L U B Opening in March 2020, this promising new restaurant in Clerkenwell sees the collaboration of painter John Gent, restaurateur Jon Spiteri and architect Russell Potter restoring a Grade II listed Courthouse to bring you a mix of a creative studio and a restaurant with bar.

Instagram: @sessionsartsclub

FO O D & DRINK N EWS

We love talking about food...so here are the best bits we found out this month

FA I R F E L D S FA R M C H A R I T Y PAC K Artisan crisp producer, Fairfields Farm, has launched an exclusive charity pack to raise money for The Brain Tumour Charity in memory of Lizzie Bramall, a Nayland schoolgirl who passed away in November 2018. The new Lightly Sea Salted crisps are produced using the red-fleshed Red Emmalie potatoes, a delicious crisping potato; while the eye-catching pink packaging aims to link in with The Brain Tumour Charity logo. fairfieldsfarmcrisps.co.uk 100 / Aspire / March 2020

TIME FOR TEA Hand made biscuit company; Biscuiteers have partnered with Emma Bridgewater to create their own beautiful tea set. Inside you will find tea cups and tea pots in a spring rose and daffodils design. And when all the hand iced biscuits are gone, mum will have a lovely place to store all of her tea.

Time For Tea Luxe Biscuit Tin (for Mother’s Day), £45.00; biscuiteers.com

RYA N R E Y N O L D S PA RT N E R S H I P Hollywood heartthrob Ryan Reynolds has struck a deal with Proof Drinks to distribute his Orgeon-made Aviation Gin in the UK to grow its presence in Britain. Currently available at Asda & Waitrose with a growing presence in restaurants and bars throughout the country. aviationgin.com KIMCHI A staple in Korean cuisine, Kimchi is set to be one of the most popular dishes this year.

Kimchi is a side dish of salted and fermented vegetables - a great source of probiotics which help replenish the ‘good bacteria’ in your gut.

JUICE HQ The UK’s first cold pressed juice doorstep delivery business delivers top quality, highly natural juices to your doorstep in reusable glass bottles (collected a week later). As a zero-waste business, they give back to their local community by feeding cattle in the local farms with the pulp leftover each day from their juicing process. juicehq.co.uk

SUBHEAD

W H AT ’ S I N S E A S O N

S P I NAC H Spinach is a superfood packed with vitamins and nutrients including vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C and folate as well as being a great source of manganese, magnesium, iron and vitamin B2. It has had a reputation for good health since the 12th century which still stands today. Spinach is available all year round but is in season during the spring (March-June). Rich in iron, this plant has the ability to restore energy, increase vitality and improve the quality of the blood. Due to its high water content it reduces in size by about a quarter when cooked so don’t be shy with your portion sizes.

January 2020 / Aspire / 4

SUBHEAD

V E G A N R E D L E N T I L S P I N AC H S O U P Hearty and comforting soup that is super creamy and flavoursome.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

1 ½ tbsp olive oil

2 cups spinach, chopped

1 large chopped onion

1 cup red lentils rinsed

3 cloves garlic, chopped

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp ground black pepper

1 tsp cumin

Salt to taste

1 tsp dried mint

Mint for garnish (optional)

5 cups of water

1. Saute onion and garlic with olive oil in a large pan over low heat until slightly golden (about 3-4 minutes). Stir in paprika, cumin, black pepper and dried mint. Cook for one minute, stirring occasionaly.

2. Add in the salt, lentils, spinach, water and lemon juice. Cook until everything is mushy, for 30 minutes.

3. Use a hand blender and blend until smooth.

Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes and remove from the heat.

4. Serve with extra lemon juice and optionally with mint sprigs.

Serving Size: 6 CREDIT: givereceipe.com

102 / March 2020 / Aspire

W H Y M U M D E S E RV E S A

GOOD WINE We are entering the month where the focus will be upon the upcoming Mother’s Day (Sunday March 22nd... gentle reminder)! Flowers, personalised gifts, and meals out from our local businesses will all be the order of the day. However, may I add that perhaps she will also welcome a good bottle of wine. Why? Simply because if chosen with care (and perhaps a bit of advice) a wine represents a story. It represents something that has been planted, cared for, nurtured and when ready handled with the utmost love and attention. Finally, when packaged and ready a wine leaves its home (the estate) while the proprietor awaits feedback of how much it was enjoyed and appreciated. Therefore as a suggestion here are two wines which if chosen tell a story of two women (and mums).

Warwick Estate (South Africa). First Lady Sauvignon & Blue Lady Cabernet Norma Ratcliffe is often referred to as ‘the First Lady’ of Stellenbosch. Self-taught she had to leave her kids with Stan her husband to spend a vintage in Bordeaux learning the art of the craft. In the years that followed this focused and determined lady overcame the hurdles of being a ‘female’ winemaker, the politics of the Apartheid, and countless other challenges to establish Warwick. She was awarded in 2015 South Africa’s 1659 Medal of Honour for her contribution to the wine industry (the first woman to receive the award) and rightfully so!

Castello Pomino, Frescobaldi – Pomino Bianco 2018 A hidden gem and highest appellation in Tuscany. In the mid 1800’s Leonia degli Albizi wife of Angiolo Frescobaldi introduced a significant innovation. Born in the Burgundy region of France she introduced both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to this region (where Sangiovese of Chianti fame ruled).

The vines thrived and demonstrated the vision and knowledge of this incredible woman. Her efforts brought about wide acclaim culminating in a Gold Medal at the Paris Expo in 1878. In recognition of her pioneering spirit Castello Pomino today name their ‘champagne method’ sparkling wine…Leonia.

Two wines.Two women.Take time and choose mum a wine worthy of a great story.

By John Kernaghan, liquoricewine.co.uk Facebook: /LiquoriceShenfield Instagram: @liquoriceessex

A TEA-RIFFIC MOTHER’S DAY Treat your mum to a sumptuous afternoon tea this Mother’s Day, with finger sandwiches, bite-sized cakes and a glass of bubbly, or two (or three)...

M U L B E R RY H O U S E , ONGAR

M A RY G R E E N M A N O R , B R E N T WO O D

If your mum is a tea lover, make sure to take her to Mulberry House this Mother’s Day. The hotel boasts a loose tea menu, with over 12 teas and infusions from around the world, including Egyptian Mint Tea and Chinese Organic Jasmine. They also have a great selection of cafetiere coffees, dainty cakes and freshly baked scones with clotted cream.

If you want a tranquil setting in which to enjoy your afternoon, look no further than Marygreen Manor Hotel. Tea is served in their beautiful conservatory overlooking the hotel gardens, allowing guests to enjoy their food in a serene environment.

For that extra special touch add a glass of chilled champagne.

£21.95, mulberry-house.com

£17.50, marygreenmanor.co.uk

104 / March 2020 / Aspire

M R S S A L I S B U RY ’ S F A M O U S T E A RO O M S , M A L D O N This little gem is tucked away, just off Maldon High Street, but has one of the best afternoon teas in Essex. With excellent customer service and lots of charm, this tearoom offers a warm and cozy dining experience, ideal for Mother’s Day. Start off with a glass of champagne before plates loaded with cakes, sandwiches and warm fruit scones arrive. The perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon. £29.95, mrssalisburys.co.uk

WIVENHOE HOUSE, COLCHESTER Wivenhoe House offers an abundance of food with their traditional afternoon tea. Enjoy a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and a variety of cakes and pastries. The hotel also offers a twist on traditional bubbly, with their Rosé Champagne afternoon tea (£34.50). £27, wivenhoehouse.co.uk

H A L L M A R K H OT E L , CHIGWELL Hallmark Hotel’s scone recipe is a much guarded secret, having been inspired by one of their regular guests. Karen Doyle submitted her secret scone recipe to Hallmark as part of a competition in 2017, and now the hotel features her delicious scones on its menu. Enjoy with finger sandwiches and an assortment of sweet treats. £22, hallmarkhotels.co.uk

Aspire / March 2020 / 105

O U R R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E

AL EC ’ S

Enjoy a dining experience set in a rural setting, with breath-taking countryside views...

Alec’s Restaurant Bar & Grill opened in 2010 and has established itself as one of Essex’s leading fish Restaurants. Attracting customers from near and far, Alec’s prides itself on quality ingredients and exceptional service.

Unwind with a premium bottle of wine or signature cocktail in the comfortable lounge or bar area, before taking a seat in the elegant main dining room. Roaring fires in the winter and a stunning terrace with countryside views only enhance the elegant building.

The menu at Alec’s Restaurant Bar & Grill is traditionally British and sets out to serve simple, quality fresh food. Although predominantly a seafood restaurant serving the finest fish and shellfish, mouth-watering meat dishes add to this impressive menu.

All seafood and fish are caught wild from across Britain, and the finest, most succulent cuts of meat are sourced from across the globe, with Welsh lamb and ‘USDA’ strip loins from the USA frequenting the menu.

From the freshly baked bread to all dishes cooked to order, you are guaranteed a fine dining experience to remember.

Navestock Side, Brentwood CM14 5SD alecsrestaurant.co.uk 01277 375696

Facebook: /AlecsRestaurant Instagram: @alecsrestaurant

O U R R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E

T HE MAGIC M U S H RO O M With first class food, a relaxed atmosphere and range of different menus, the Magic Mushroom is the ideal place to spend an evening...

The Magic Mushroom Restaurant at Barleylands, Billericay, opened in 1996. It offers first class food from a contemporary menu with a traditional influence, freshly cooked and served in a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant can accommodate up to 160 covers and has a lovely outdoor terrace.

Executive Chef and Restaurateur Darren Bennett is very proud of the fact that after 25 years the Magic Mushroom is still the success it is. He puts this down to the fact that the restaurant is always changing with times and trends.

The Magic Mushroom also has a beautiful private function room with its own entrance and bar, which can seat up to 240 people and a smaller room which seats 30 people. It is the ideal venue for private dining, conferences, events, parties, wakes, baby showers and weddings.

The restaurant offers an A La Carte Menu, a Set Menu (Tuesday to Friday) and a Sunday Lunch Menu. Vegan Menus are available together with an extensive wine list.

Next month, Darren and his team are launching Afternoon Tea with a ‘Magic Mushroom’ twist. We are sure it will be a great success!

Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex, CM11 2UD magicmushroomrestaurant.co.uk 01268 289963

Facebook: /themagicmushroomrestaurant Twitter: @MMRestaurant

O U R R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E

NOVIKOV Novikov Restaurant & Bar combines cool and contemporary interiors with a superlative culinary offering...

Located in the heart of Mayfair, Novikov Restaurant & Bar has 2 distinct restaurants and one stylish Lounge Bar. A real feature of the Novikov Asian Restaurant is its open kitchen. Fronted by an amazing display of seafood and vegetables, it evokes the atmosphere of an Asian food market. The atmosphere here is at once welcoming and relaxing, but subtle enough not to distract from the food itself. The menu uses novel flavours and texture combinations, inspired by Chinese and Pan Asian cuisine.

As soon as you enter Novikov Italian Restaurant you can’t miss the imposing wood-fired oven, suede wall panelling, mirrors in solid oak frames and the rustic chandeliers. The indulgent menu offers regional Italian dishes with a contemporary twist.

The Lounge Bar is a must-visit destination, with an extensive cocktail menu, live music and performances by some of the world’s top DJs.

50A Berkeley Street, Mayfair, London,W1J 8HA reservations@novikovrestaurant.co.uk 020 7399 4330

Facebook: /novikovlondon Instagram: @novikovrestaurant

O U R R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E

THE M EL U S IN E Founders Theodore Kyriakou andWade Mundford strive to strip back the complexity of everyday life with their restaurant The Melusine...

The Melusine’s aim is to bring a fresh approach to cooking, with great seafood sourced straight from the British Isles. Produce reaches the restaurant from fishermans’ boats every morning, meaning that every customer enjoys the very best fresh seafood.

The Melusine was created with community values and the customer in mind.

The restaurant is an intimate space where customers can feel a real connection to the food and chef.

The cocktail list is inventive, with great twists on classic cocktails.

Unit K, Ivory House, St Katharine Docks, East Smithfield London, E1W 1AT themelusine.co.uk 020 7702 2976

Facebook: /TheMelusineSKD Twitter: @themelusine_skd Instagram: @themelusine_skd

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