East Kent Lifestyle Issue 18

issue eighteen

january/ february twenty-fifteen

Mila Kunis

MOVE OVER THE MATRIX – A-LISTER KUNIS SHINES IN JUPITER RISING

east kent weddings

albion house hotel

valentine’s fab finds

thirty

Boutique luxury at the SeaSide

Gift

paGeS of ideaS for your BiG day

ideaS for the one you love

G R E A T S AV I N G S FANTASTIC CHOICE

Natasha 2 Seater leather sofa Was £1835

NOW £1469

Montina Extending dining table RRP £1095

NOW £825

Verona Extending dining table Was £2309

SALE £1709

www.lenleys.co.uk F U R N I T U R E

|

B E D S

|

C U R T A I

LENLEYS

THE WINTER SALE

Bowmore Grand Sofa WAS £2005

Genoa

NOW £1505

Astoria 150cm bedstead WAS £1375

Large sofa WAS £3398

NOW £2550

Nimbus

NOW £1055

150cm divan set RRP £2029

25-34 Roper Road, Canterbury CT2 7EL

SALE £1499

01 2 2 7 7 6 6655

N N S S | | F F L L OO OO R R I I N N G G | | A A C C C C E E S S S S OO R R I I E E S S

[welcome ]

january/february twenty-fifteen

ISSUE EIGHTEEN

It’s only the first week of January and already the Christmas holidays seem like a lifetime ago. Hey ho!, upwards and onwards with 2015 it is then!

Traditionally the festive period is a popular time for popping the big question, and with that in mind our first issue of the year contains a 30 page “East Kent Weddings” section beginning on p71 where we take a look at some of the area’s best wedding venues, showcase some wonderful wedding dresses, give out some top tips on wedding hair, make-up, grooming, photography, catering, events, and honeymoons.

For those of us who may have overindulged a little over the holidays, start to get yourself in trim and enjoy some of the outstanding sights and sounds of East Kent with this issue’s East Kent Walk through historic Faverhsam on page 14, or hop on your bikes through nature and orchid reserves, along Roman roads, and down to the south coast on the “Coast to Cathedral” cycle trail from Canterbury to Dover on page 16.

Our resident healthy eating guru, Renee Maguire is on hand to help you with the all-important New Year detox, with some invaluable information, advice, and how to prepare a delicious detox live cleanse.

This issue George Shaw reviews the stunning English fayre on offer at Saltwood on the Green, the Hythe based restaurant of Jeff Kipp. Chicago born Jeff has worked in some of the world’s finest restaurants, including Gordon Ramsay’s 3 Michelin starred SW3. Apparently Rocksalt owner and another Ramsay protégé and Michelin starred chef, Mark Sargeant is a regular patron – recommendations don’t come any higher than that!

With more news, reviews, winter fashion, days out, homes and interiors, and much more besides, start the New Year with a cover to cover read of East Kent’s finest magazine!

See you in the Spring!

Pete Nichols, Publishing Director

4

EAST KENT LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

co 20 FRE ns mi E ul t nu at te io ns *

COSMETIC SURGERY

MORE THAN SKIN DEEP Cosmetic surgery can help you achieve the change you’re looking for.

Treatment can give you a new self-confidence as well as a new look, but it’s not right for everyone. At BMI The Chaucer Hospital, we always make sure you’ve asked yourself, and us, all the important questions before you go ahead with a procedure.

Free mini cosmetic consultation: Come to a FREE, 20 minute mini consultation with one of our surgeons Miss Anita Hazari and Mr John Davison. Appointments available 1st January to 31st March 2015.

Call 0800 092 8728 now or visit the local events page on bmicosmetic.co.uk to book a free consultation.

Offer subject to availability. This offer is only available to persons aged 18 and over.

The offer ends 31st March 2015.

*

Serious about health.

Passionate about care.

032271 © BMI 2014

[contents ]

34

powell-cotton

95

hot honeymoon hotels - USA

WHAT’S INSIDE... food and drink 42 45 46

Saltwood on the Green Lee Behan Recipe Healthy Eating with Renee

home and interiors 21 25 26

Papillon Interiors Danish Design Decorating Do's and Dont's

health and beauty 33

Cosmetic Surgery

fashion 55

Fenwicks Fashion

east kent weddings 70 73 75 76 81 82 6

Fella Male Grooming Tips Port Lympne Mansion & Gardens Tudor Park Marriott Hotel Divine Dresses Wedding Hair Pegwell Bay Hotel

29

mila kunis

[contents ]

55

65

fenwicks

85 87 88 88 89 90 91 92 94 95 98

Sands Hotel, Margate Weddings at Eastwell Manor The Burlington Hotel Abbots Barton Hotel St Edmunds Canterbury Bridal Beauty Bag Checklist Let them eat (wedding) cake Wedding Photography The Secret Garden Hot Honeymoon Hotels - U.S.A. Wedding Make-up

kent college

37

digtial music evolved

regulars & features

10 12 14 16 29 68

East Kent News Fabulous Finds East Kent Walks East Kent Cycle Trail Mila Kunis What's Occurring

days out 18 38 34

Quarterhouse Albion House Hotel, Ramsgate Powell-Cotton Museum

education 65 66 67

Kent College, Canterbury The Nursery at East Kent College St Lawrence College

music 37

Digital Music Evolved

76 devine dresses

7

[publication information ]

psapublishing East Kent Lifestyle magazine published by PSA Publishing Barley House, Sopers Road, Cuffley, Herts EN6 4RY tel: 01707 878026 email: sales@psapublishing.co.uk www.psapublishing.co.uk

Publishing Director

Creative Director

Pete Nichols pete@psapublishing.co.uk

Stuart Bennett stuart@bainesdesign.co.uk

Sales Executive

Managing Director

Jo Costello sales@psapublishing.co.uk

Andrew Bennett andrew@bainesdesign.co.uk

Travel Editor

Distribution

Jaillan Yehia hello@savoirthere.com

www.fellahair.com

MEN HAVE 3 TYPES OF HAIRSTYLES:

PARTED, UN-PARTED & DEPARTED!

Sam Holliday Mary Jones

Contributors Jaillan Yehia, Jess Everton, Amy McManus, Lee Behan, Renee Maguire, Tony King, Pete Nichols, Explore Kent, Bobby Gordon, Jennifer Baker, Fenwicks Canterbury, Melody Miller, George Shaw, Flemming Moberg

Contributing Photographers Jaillan Yehia, Amy McManus, Jo Doran, Melody Miller, Flemming Moberg For all advertising enquiries please contact sales on 01707 878 026

The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the content of advertisements or contributed editorial in this magazine. Opinions expressed editorially are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and no responsibility is accepted for loss, damage or injury incurred as a result of opinions, advice or comment.

HOOK US UP / 01227 780382 19 The Borough Canterbury Kent CT1 2DR

Mon to Wed Thur Fri Sat

9.30am - 6.00pm 9.30am - 7.00pm 9.00am - 7.00pm 9.00am - 5.00pm

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. Š Copyright 2015. No part of East Kent Lifestyle can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the prior written consent of the publishers. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

FOLLOW US

brand identity designed by www.kre-ativ.com

www.bainesdesign.co.uk 01707 876555 Printed on environmentally friendly paper A63255 9

[news ]

east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east ken

Kent Homeowners Making Cash Renting Rooms to Thespians

Co-founders Phil Barley and Lisa Benson

Under the Government’s Rent A Room Scheme, property owners are entitled to up earn up to £4,250 a year tax-free from renting out a room in their main home.

And thanks to Theatre Digs Booker – a website launched in 2010 offering theatre professionals with lodgings in spare rooms – more people are earning extra income this way.

The service was set up by actor Phil Barley who struggled to find decent digs while touring the country with various theatre productions and has been blown away with the popularity.

For example since September Theatre Digs Booker has received over £90,000 of bookings with people trying to get

a little extra cash over the recent Xmas & New Year holidays.

Cast and crew from the UK’s theatre companies can use the website to choose from over 850 homes across the UK including all within 20 miles of a theatre. With the Winter Gardens in Margate, The Marlowe in Canterbury, Leas Cliff Hall in Folkestone, homeowners throughout East Kent can look to benefit from this new opportunity.

With the production of Shrek coming to Canterbury’s Marlowe Theatre in February 2015, now could be the time for people who enjoy the experience of meeting new people (including famous actors from time-to-time) within the surrounding area to consider signing up to earn a little extra.

Theatre Digs Booker is available to all homeowners across the UK. Signing up is free and commission is only taken on successful bookings.

For more information visit www.theatredigsbooker.com

Tourism Thriving in Ashford borough has a number of products such as the Ashford Designer Outlet and award-winning vineyards that are already popular with that market.

The council’s ambitions to woo more visitors have been revealed following a consultation with Visit Kent, Tourism South East and the Ashford and Tenterden Tourism Association, as well as local tourism businesses.

The review, undertaken by the council’s Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Cllr Clair Bell, provided evidence that Ashford’s tourism service is performing well. The review will help shape the Tourism Action Plan for the next five years.

Ashford has a thriving visitor economy, says a new report, and the town is keen to develop a number of ‘quick-win’ projects to attract even more tourists.

One idea proposed by Ashford Borough Council is a wine trail where visitors use a digital app and a brochure to guide themselves around the vineyards in Tenterden and the surrounding villages.

The council is also looking to support a marketing campaign led by Visit Kent to attract more Chinese visitors, as the

10

Many local businesses have agreed to join the council in developing these aspirations. Some initiatives will begin right away, while others linked to major developments will take longer to develop.

Cllr Bell said: “The review has demonstrated the council’s commitment to supporting our visitor economy. Tourism businesses have helped us identify key issues such as the need for better tourist information and support for joint marketing campaigns. We are determined to make the borough more attractive to visitors.”

For more information visit www.ashfordford.com

nt NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS

Sittingbourne goes brick mad for

Regeneration

On November 18th a band of brickies paraded through the streets of Sittingbourne carrying hods of bricks and the planning application for Phase 1 of the ‘Spirit of Sittingbourne’ development, to present to Swale Borough Council.

Before handing over the application at the office on East Street the brickies laid bricks outside spelling out Spirit of Sittingbourne, to acknowledge the town’s history and heritage of brick making. The Smeed Dean works in Sittingbourne has been one of the most prolific producers of yellow stock bricks for more than 200 years.

Over 1,000 jobs will be created through the project in phase 1 and 2, which aims to breathe life into the town centre with innovation and regeneration.

With a value of over £100m and an estimated economic benefit of £326m for Sittingbourne over the next 10 years, infrastructure works for the regeneration if planning is approved are due to start in March 2015.

Plans incluse a new leisure Quarter including a seven screen cinema and eight new restaurants, aiming to bring over 400,000 visitors a year to the town.

New homes in the town centre, retail outlets and a multi storey car park also form part of the regeneration plans.

Richard Upton, Chief Executive of Cathedral Group, said: “This is an exciting and ambitious opportunity to bring to life an entire town centre, one which will deliver a whole host of new facilities that will benefit the local community and residents of Sittingbourne.”

[news ]

Turner Contemporary Showcases Priceless Exhibition “Self: image and identity” From 24th January to 10th May, The Turner Contemporary in Margate presents the exhibition “Self: image and identity”, with more than 100 artist self-portraits from the sixteenth- century to the present day, from Sir Anthony van Dyck and JMW Turner to recent work by Louise Bourgeois and Yinka Shonibare.

The exhibition explores the diverse ways in which artists have chosen to represent themselves and their identities through painting, drawing, sculpture, photography and film. More than 70 works from the National Portrait Gallery will be showcased alongside key twentieth century and contemporary self portraits from public and private international collections for an expansive look at the self-portraiture genre.

Central to the exhibition is the last known self portrait

by Sir Anthony van Dyck (1599 -1641), Court Painter to Charles I. Regarded as Britain’s first ‘celebrity’ artist, Van Dyck was also the most influential portrait painter ever to have worked in Britain and his legacy was to last for the next three centuries. Sir Anthony van Dyck’s remarkable self-portrait was acquired by the National Portrait Gallery in 2014 through a major public appeal with the Art Fund, and with thanks to a major grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the support of other major individual and trust supporters, and nearly 10,000 members of the public. Turner Contemporary will be the first venue where visitors can see Van Dyck’s Self-portrait as it embarks on a three year national tour, supported by the Art Fund and Heritage Lottery Fund.

The exhibition also includes work by Louise Bourgeois; John Constable; Tracey Emin; Lucian Freud; Damien Hirst; David Hockney; Angelica Kauffmann, Sarah Lucas, JMW Turner, and Gillian Wearing.

11

[fabulous finds ]

Finds 

MY HEART BY CLIVE SEFTON

Show someone special how much you love them with a framed personalised 'My Heart' word search print – a uniquely personal way to say 'I love you'.

Perhaps it's your first date, honeymoon location, favourite song or something more intimate. With up to 30 personal words and phrases hidden within your print, it is truly a present to treasure forever.

Each high-quality print is meticulously created by hand, embossed and signed. Presented in a beautiful box with a sophisticated red ribbon.

Price: £65 Available from www.clivesefton.co.uk



MINI HEART SILVER NECKLACE

The Mini Heart Silver Necklace by The Scandinavian Shop is simple, elegant, and timeless. The necklace is silver plated, giving it a high-gloss finish. It would make the perfect Valentine's gift for a lady looking for that something extra special.

Price: Small - £119 Large - £129 Available from www.scandinavianshop.co.uk 12

s e n i t n e l a V 

THE WOOING TREE BLONDIE

The Wooing Tree, a local landmark, sits prominently in the middle of the Wooing Tree Vineyard in Central Otago, New Zealand. The tree has long been a popular place for locals to woo their lovers and it is fast becoming and popular place for marriage proposals and weddings. What better way to toast your Valentine on his or her special day?

Price: £22.99 Available from www.capelondon.co.uk

[fabulous finds ]



UNITY BRACELETS

Karma Feeling’s Unity bracelets are unique handmade, crystal healing bracelets designed to make a profoundly romantic statement, and make an ideal gift for Valentine’s day.You can order a male and female combination, or a same sex combo for civil partnerships and weddings.

The bracelets come in three sizes, each with a solid silver Karma Feeling charm. Crystals available include Black Onyx, Blue Lace Agate, Moonstone, Garnet, Lapis Lazuli, and Red Tiger Eye. Pick your gender, size, and crystals and they are packaged together in a presentation box with a description of what the stones do.

Price: £75 Available from www.karmafeeling.co.uk



“GOOD MORNING BEAUTIFUL” CEREAL SPOON



MY LAST ROLO SILVER LOVE TOKEN

What better time to remind your significant other how you feel about them than every morning as they sit down for breakfast? The Cutlery Commission’s “Good Morning Beautiful” Cereal Spoon has a charming vintage feel and is available with a simple or ornate handle. The actual cutlery itself is all silver plated and hand crafted in an antique style so again, each one is unique and the final product is a truly one-of-a-kind keepsake. This may not be flashy or expensive, but it’s charming, quirky, and oh-so-very personal.

Price: £16 Available from www.thecutlerycommission.com

Ok, so it’s considerably more expensive than your average Rolo, but it won’t melt, it sparkles, and it’s the perfect valentine’s gift! This Sterling Silver Rolo is officially endorsed by Nestle and also exclusively made in England to the dimensions of the actual chocolate Rolos! It comes in its own uniquely designed ribboned gift box to add that extra sparkle. But do you love anyone enough to give them your last Rolo?

Price: £69.99 Available from www.prezzybox.com 13

[days out ]

EAST KENT WALK

FAVERSHAM

SET OUT ON A WALK FROM THE HEART OF FAVERSHAM AND ACROSS THE MARSHES WHERE YOU’LL SPY FLOCKS OF WETLAND BIRDS GATHERING ALONG THE COAST. FOLLOW THE CREEK AS IT CIRCLES BACK TO THE MARKET TOWN, WHERE YOU’RE SURE TO FIND A COSY PUB CORNER TO SIT AND SUP SOME OF THE LOCAL SHEPHERD NEAME ALE. 14

j

[days out ]

j

LOCATION: Faversham (ME13 7JL) DISTANCE: 4.6 miles (7.36 km) TIME: Allow 2.5 hours OS EXPLORER MAP: 149

j

TERRAIN: Surfaced paths and grassy waterside banks REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES: Public houses and restaurants in Faversham PARKING: Public car parks in Faversham Town Centre

Start/Finish

±

"  0

0 0

Km

0.25

Miles

0.5 0.25

0.5

4.6 miles (7.4km)

 

Gate

" 

Train station

Pub



Museum

Fishing



PUBLIC TRANSPORT: For local bus and train services in Kent, contact Traveline, Tel: 0870 608 2608, www.traveline.org.uk

Information

© Crown Copyright and database right 2013. Ordnance Survey 100019238

Starting out from West Street, take the sign-posted Flood Lane, following it as it opens out onto a grassy area.

From Brent Hill you’ll spot the spire of Faversham Church in the distance, turn right at the end of the hill and then take the path to run alongside the houses beside the creek.

Crossing the footbridge, follow the surfaced path out across the road and the driveway on the right and follow the signs towards the Saxon Shore Way. The path soon opens out into fields, following the creek as it circles the marshes.

Alongside the creek you’ll see the iconic Oyster Bay House, once a warehouse for storing hops before they were transported to London.

Your creek-side path will lead you through the marshes where overwintering birds gather and sheep and cattle graze.

Dunlin, redshank and oystercatchers can all be spotted wheeling above and just ahead is the inviting Shipwright’s Arms pub. With a host of real ales, roaring fire and delicious local catch, walkers will certainly be forgiven for making a quick stop off at the pub before continuing to follow the creek.

Edging the creek you’ll pass through the shipyard and moorings, following the Saxon Shore Way as it winds behind the boats. At the end of the track, turn right and follow the surfaced road, turning left on to the pavement as you reach the main road.

Along this road, you’ll see the Oare Meadow Nature Reserve, an area which boasts a rare collection of fresh-water and salt-water plants. The nature trail continues as you follow the path, passing the disused gravel pits, now stocked with plenty of fish.

Straight ahead you’ll see Davington Church, the Grade I listed building, the oldest in the area and part of Davington Priory. Passing the weather-boarded cottages of former gunpowder workers, turn left at the bottom of the hill and head back into the heart of Faversham for a taste of some local food and beer, or stop of at Chart Gunpowder Mill and learn all about the Town’s explosive history.

15

[days out ]

COAST TO CATHEDRAL EAST KENT CYCLE TRAIL

Take on your own Pilgrim’s Progress on this marvellous 50 mile ride from Canterbury to Dover and back again.

16

out ] [days[title

!

A257

Canterbury

!

! ! !

Bekesbourne

A2 !

Bridge

A2

Aylesham !

Snowdown !

A25 6

AONB

LOCATION: Canterbury (CT11 8LN)

Adisham

Shepherdswell !!

A2

TIME: Allow 6 hours and 15 minutes Elham

OS EXPLORER MAP: 138 AND 150

A26 0

DISTANCE: 50 miles (80 KM)

AONB

REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES: Canterbury and Dover

Kearsney !

!

Densole

PARKING: Canterbury PUBLIC TRANSPORT For local bus and train services in Kent, contact Traveline tel: 0870 6082608, www.traveline.org.uk

!

West Hougham

Dover

Cycle Trail - Off-road ! !

Folkestone !

Cycle Trail - On-road !

Railway Station

!

© Crown Copyright and database right 2015. Ordnance Survey 100019238

!

Leave behind the winding streets of Canterbury and set out on the Regional Route 16 to Dover and wind along leafy lanes, bridleways and rolling hills.

The hustle and bustle of the city is soon replaced with a long stretch of wide open fields. It is advisable to start the journey anti-clockwise via Route 16 to avoid steep climbs out of Dover later.

Branching off from Route 16 and onto Route 17, you’ll pass through the pretty village of Bridge, a rural village on the old Roman Road, Watling Street, once the main road between London and Dover. From Bridge, follow the quiet valley lanes past Lynsore Bottom to Elham.

Once in Elham, you can stop off and visit Park Gate Down Nature Reserve, a beautiful grassland site with two orchid

reserves and plenty of wildlife dwelling in the grassland and woodland habitats.

all surrounded by swathes of fields and woodland.

Soon the sea will be ahead of you, so glide down to Dover and make sure you get a good look at those iconic cliffs as you pedal on towards the coast. Here in Dover, you can stop off and refuel in one of the local cafes or restaurants, before heading back inland towards Canterbury. At this point, you can choose to pedal your way back or let the train take the strain.

Weaving through the fields and farmland, enjoy the stretches of marvellous views, only interrupted by villages. Zip through Adisham’s cluster of houses and past the church to follow the route out into the fields.

Leaving Dover and the coast, make sure you look back at Dover Castle, a frontline fort since the 12th century and historically described as the “Key to England.”

The return journey from Dover is only interrupted by a scattering of villages,

Soon you’ll reach the small village of Patrixbourne, sat along the Pilgrims Way. Stop off in the village and you’ll find the church. Built in 1170 and elaborately carved, it’s a worth a quick stop off to view its beautiful architecture.

From the village, keep pedalling, edging more fields which stretch out around you and soon you’ll catch glimpses of Canterbury, a beautiful sprawl of history and architecture to explore upon your return.

17

[days out ]

TWO AMAZING SPEAKERS ARE VISITING FOLKESTONE

QUARTERHOUSE Germaine GREER

THIS SPRING!

DAN Cruickshank

"THE DISAPPEARING WOMEN" "THE RECREATION OF LOST Forty years ago it seemed that women were about to take BUILDINGS" their rightful place in the world, in parliament, in the church, in the judiciary, in the workplace but when you open the newspaper you find that news is still made by men in suits.

The female most likely to be seen in the sports pages will be a horse. Women are disappearing too because flesh is not allowed. As soon as girls accept the size, role and shape of adult women, they begin to disappear.

With each stage of their lives, as they become successively wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, they become less visible.Virtually obliterated are the three-quarters of care home residents who are women.

Dan Cruickshank, respected television presenter, author of many respected books on architecture, and honorary member of the Royal Institute of British Architects, explores what we find irresistible about fine old buildings.

Architectural wonders that define a people or place have been lost and recreated.Warsaw old town, parts of Dresden, the palaces of St. Petersburg; the schloss in Berlin. In the UK the Euston arch, completed in 1837, the first great monument of the railway age and one of the finest pieces of Greek Revival architecture ever built, was demolished in 1961.

Germaine Greer attempts to explain this state of affairs and to suggest some strategies for change.

After years of search most of the stones of the Arch have been recovered from a river bed in East London, and the government has recently decreed that the Arch should be rebuilt.

Friday 13 February, 7pm £14 / £12

Friday 17 February, 7pm £14 / £12

18

[title ]

St. Georges Street, Canterbury, Kent. CT1 2TB | TEL 01227 766866 | www.fenwick.co.uk/canterbury

19

Country Warmth Top quality fireplaces from a top quality company

Traditional to ultra modern • Established 30 years Full design & installation service througout the south east 1-3 Sandgate High Street, Sandgate, Kent • 01303 240300 www.countrywarmth.com • GAS SAFE, HETAS

20

[home and interiors ]

BY TONY KING OF PAPILLON INTERIORS, FORT HILL MARGATE.

LET THERE

BE LIGHT

So here we are stuck in the midst of cold winter nights and grey days. But there is (ahem) light at the end of the tunnel. Just because things are dull outside doesn’t mean to say we cannot add a little warmth and light to our interiors.

Over the last few months our team at Papillon have been focusing on lighting ranges and coming up with interesting and design led solutions for our clients.

After all, lighting and luminaires can often be a main feature or focal point to a room. Certainly they will help enhance or reduce the atmosphere, depending on what you want to achieve.

Large hallways can be transformed with large pendant lights, giving real identity to this ‘in between’ space. An eye catching, statement piece will set the scene and create the atmosphere that you are trying to achieve around the house.

Kitchen and dining areas have changed dramatically in the last 10 years and great care is now taken in ensuring the flow between the two areas works. Lighting is essential for the preparation of food and its consumption but the mood needs to change for after dinner conversation and relaxation.

The living room is a place for the whole family to relax.This multi purpose space is often used as a place to ‘hang out’.

Therefore the lighting needs to be thought through in terms of should it be fixed or moveable, we are renowned regularly changing our rooms around, and fixed or dimmable to change the atmosphere relevant to its usage.

Finally our bedroom, a room for rest and peace. Achieving the right amount of lighting to help you ‘wind down’ is important for you to get a good nights sleep. But you also need to get dressed in the morning! Use a side or fixed wall light for bedside reading, taking care to choose the right size and height for the size of room. Ensure your main light is not central to the room or that a dimmer switch is fitted to create instant atmosphere.

21

[title ]

22

[title ]

23

COLLECTABLES

D A N 7 Broad Street, Margate CT9 1EW I 01843 292 417 S 07428 370 291 H

flemmingmoberg@hotmail.co.uk

http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Danish-Collectables

www.danishcollectables.co.uk 24

[title ] [homes and interiors

WITH FLEMMING MOBERG OF DANISH COLLECTABLES, MARGATE

DANISH DESIGN IN DETAIL BORGE MOGENSEN (1914 – 1972)

In the second of our series of articles chronicling the lives and achievements of the 20th Century’s most influential Danish furniture designers we take a look back at the late, great, Borge Mogensen.

The name Borge Mogensen has been synonymous with classic, simple, and functional furniture design for over half a century, and his designs are in as much demand today as they ever have been.

As well as his numerous storage based endeavours, Mogensen was a prolific designer, and here at Danish Collectables we sell a lot of his original designs from the late 50’s through to the early 1970’s.

Born in 1914 in Aalborg, he started his career at the age of twenty as a cabinet maker, before going on to study furniture design at the Danish School of Arts and Crafts in Copenhagen. He then went to train as an architect at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts’ School of Architecture where he later worked alongside Professor Kaare Klint, the man often cited as the “father of modern Danish furniture design”. It is from Klint who Mogensen took much of his inspiration and his love of classic, streamlined, and functional design.

One of Mogensen’s most iconic designs is the Spanish Chair from 1959, the year he finally left FBD to set up on his own.The design was inspired by a trip to Spain in 1958 and is based on a traditional type of chair often found in areas influenced by ancient Islamic culture. Mogensen modernised the shape while retaining the broad, characterful armrests and as in many of Mogensen’s pieces, he used oak (he was keen on using materials readily available), where others might use teak, or rosewood.The backrest and seat are made of thick, butt leather. Using such sturdy materials, the chairs are sturdy, robust, and with care can last a lifetime.

Mogensen spent much his working life as manager of the cooperative FDB furniture design studio, where he introduced the idea of building shelving and storage units as part of a room rather than buying them independently and placing them in the space.

New Spanish Chairs today retail at around £3,000. In the past month, we have sold seven original Spanish Chairs in immaculate condition at just £495 each.

Mogensen’s sofa designs are perhaps his most recognisable, simply because they have been imitated again and again over the last half century.

Designed in 1962, the sheer quality of the sofa, often again made from solid oak and upholstered with wonderful highgrade analine leather filled with goose down, reflects Mogensen’s respect for working with the best in raw materials.

The sofa has a generous seat and high sides, so is not only large and comfortable, but also elegant.With its simple and minimalistic design, Mogensen’s sofa will blend in with any interior, but will also maintain a strong presence in the room. An example can be seen in our advertisement opposite. New, these sofas sell for just under £10,000, we sell original versions in A1 condition for just £2,495.We also sell the two seat sofas at £1,495, these sell new for £7,600, and the high back chairs we sell for £995 when you would pay £4,500 new.

25

[home and interiors ]

DECORATING DO'S &DONT'S WRITTEN BY TONY HOLTER

The HALLWAY

Glancing through a leading paint manufacturers booklet recently, I stopped at an example room set where the walls were predominantly a pink-red, the shade reminiscent of a stick of seaside rock.

The image was striking and quite effective but I had to think on just how long could one live with it before getting tired of it, or the colour going out of fashion. Changing the colour and style of our clothing every year with what’s in vogue is a lot easier than changing our home or working environment.

Redecorating, furnishing, or refurbishing should be viewed long term and wonderful quality solutions can be realised whether the underlying theme is traditional, modern, contemporary, eclectic or even bohemian.

I believe that creating a harmonious, practical and pleasurable interior can be achieved by just about anyone with a little research together with understanding our own intuitive response to the space we live or work in.

Somewhere deep down we know what best suits our personal tastes and needs.

We know where the best place to eat or sit, the styles of furniture and accessories that interest us, the colours that stimulate or help us to relax.. Spend good serious time planning what you want to achieve, rather than just trying to imitate the look in a brochure or magazine. Interior magazines are great and the internet is full of guides and inspiration but most of all trust yourself.

26

If the project is really complex seek professional help, but remember that the result should be yours, not a designers statement.

For the home. there are a few core principles I believe in …

This should be welco ming and bright.

The entrance hall or lobby is the all important first impre ssion, and it sets the expectation and ton e for all who enter your inner sanctuary.The hallway should be as uncluttered and spa cious as circumstance s allow.

The LIVING ROOM

If possible I would suggest making a fireplace, not the TV, the main focal point of the room. Enabling peop le to congregate and communicate comforta bly is I believe far more important than showing off the flatscreen!

The KITCHEN/ DINER

Make this room as stress free as possible.

Sometimes the more time saving gadg ets you have the more there is to look after, clean and maintain. Make moving arou nd as easy as possible and therefore safer.

The dining area should be somewhere that encourages an unhurried atmosphere. A round dining table draws people together, encourages conversation and is nonhierarchal.

The HOME OFFICE

Should be kept uncluttered and orderly.

This promotes clarity of thought and or avoids the home office from dominating . space g livin a ering pow over

The BEDROOM

sure I don’t like TV’s in bedrooms…. I’m not eful peac good a get to ct how you can expe or the nights rest after watching the late news te priva your is late night horror movie!.This and fort com ld shou it space and above all relax you.

OM The BATHRO

portant wels are more im Good quality to tiful au be ., th your ba than the shape of the an th u yo r fo r tte scents and oils be e in lg du er head… In size of your show most e th t ge to cessories the luxurious ac out of bathing. r of Managing Directo Tony Holter was l cia s Ltd, a commer Faithdean Interior d ran an ed at . He also cre interiors company . on nd y in Lo the Geiger Galler

1-3 Iron Bar Lane Off Burgate Canterbury Kent CT1 2HN Tel 01227 459525

UK’s Most Inspiring Museum

[ feature ] Chrysalis Butterfly Ball, Private Location, Beverly Hills, CA

Mila Kunis Mila Kunis was voted Sexiest Woman Alive in 2012 by Esquire magazine and her appeal has continued to grow since then; not only is she gorgeous, she’s funny and talented too.

Having started out in That ‘70s Show in 1998, she has continued to display her varied talents in TV and film comedies, thrillers, action films and rom-coms.

In 1991, at the age of seven, she moved from the Ukraine to Los Angeles with her family and seven years later her career took off. She had success early on during her involvement in That ‘70s Show at the age of fourteen, which saw her win the Young Star award for two

consecutive years for Best Performance by a Young Actress in a Comedy TV Series. Since then, the actress has seen success in a variety of genres. Kunis is best known for her roles in animated cartoon Family Guy (1999) as the voice of Meg Griffin and as Lily and The Black Swan in controversial Darren Aronofsky film Black Swan (2010), in which she starred with Natalie Portman. She has also seen success

recently in films such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008) with Jason Segel, Friends with Benefits (2011) alongside Justin Timberlake, Ted (2012) starring with Mark Wahlberg and many others.

Black Swan was one of Kunis’s most successful films which saw her receive critical attention; identifiable in her many nominations at major award ceremonies for her role in the film.

She was nominated for a Golden 29

[feature ] Globe, an MTV Movie Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award and two Teen Choice Awards. She gained her ballet experience for the film from her now Sister-in-Law Alexandra Blacker, whose career as a ballerina made her the perfect teacher. Kunis’s brother and fiancee at the time, Blacker, caused a stir with the world media at their wedding when it was assumed the dress Mila was pictured in was a bride’s dress when in actual fact it was her bridesmaid’s dress, which sparked just one of many wedding rumours about Kunis and fiancee Ashton Kutcher tying the knot. Disregarding wedding rumours, the exposure that the film and it’s attention gave her, brought her further into the international mainstream and saw her career overlap with even more well-known and famous faces in Hollywood.

benefit from the time it has spent delayed in editing. The visual effects are a huge part of the film and hopefully the extra time spent in post-production will help to blow the audience away.

The film comes from well known American screenwriters, producers and directors, The Wachowski’s, who are most famous for their success with The Matrix franchise. Looking back at their other work which includes V for Vendetta and World War Z, Jupiter Ascending is in good company. Also, the new film dips back into the sci-fi genre that has given them so much

Following her success in past endeavours, her newest film has attracted some unwanted negative attention, even before it’s release, due to the delay in its arrival to box offices around the world. Jupiter Ascending is a film set far into the future in which Kunis stars with fellow Hollywood elite Channing Tatum (Magic Mike, 2012). It tells the story of a young Russian woman, Jupiter Jones, who gets targeted for assassination by the Queen of the Universe. Mila Kunis plays a disillusioned toilet cleaner who realises her destiny is to destroy the tyrannical Queen’s reign, with the help of Tatum’s character Caine, and take her rightful place as the new Queen.

Other stars involved in the project include Douglas Booth, Sean Bean and Eddie Redmayne, the latter of who has recently been nominated for an Oscar for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking in The Theory of Everything.

Jupiter Ascending hasn’t got off to the best start as it hit a problem with its release date due to editing of special effects needing more time than originally planned. The film was scheduled to hit screens on 18th July 2014 but it is now set for release on 6th February this year. Following speculation that it received less than successful test screenings released before the extensive special effects were completed, the film will hopefully 30

With Channing Tatum at the CinemaCon 2014 - Warners Brothers Photocall at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, NV

success in the past which bodes well for this new release, but critics have raised fears that being a completely original screenplay may be a risky move to gain box office success.

Last year the actress enjoyed personal success to match her flourishing career by not only getting engaged to her boyfriend of two years, Ashton Kutcher but by also becoming pregnant and giving birth to their baby girl Wyatt.

She admits she was ‘excited about being a full time mum’ and had no qualms in taking time out of her career schedule to care for her first child.

[feature ] Arriving for the UK Premiere of 'Oz, The Great And The Powerful', Empire Leicester Square, London. Picture by:

Alexandra Glen

launched a new production company called Orchard Farm Productions. The company has a first-look deal with ABC Studios, where the company is based. Under the agreement, the team will develop and produce TV projects for broadcast and cable. Currently she is on her way to becoming an executive producer for a feminismthemed TV series for the CW network on American broadcast TV. The programme, Meridian Hills, is a drama about the women's liberation movement in the 1970s. The drama follows a young, newly married woman who joins the Junior League and discovers an eclectic group of other young women who become unlikely allies in her quest to change the system.

Rather than produce and act in this production, again like so many actors tend to do, Kunis will be staying firmly behind the camera but hopefully can promise an all star cast using her connections with Hollywood.

Mila Kunis has proven that she can enjoy career and personal success in the years that have passed, and while she looks forward to watching her new daughter grow and eventually look forward to a wedding to her celeb boyfriend, her career looks set to continue growing and evolving over time.

Jupiter Ascending is released on 6th February.

The two actors, although only having been together for the last few years, have been connected professionally since their time appearing on That ‘70s Show back in the nineties.

The wedding between Kunis and Kutcher is still not certain to have happened due to the admirable privacy that the pair insist on surrounding their personal lives with. However, playful Kutcher posted a picture on his Facebook page of writing in the sand wishing fans a Happy New Year signed ‘The Kucthers’ which sparked rumours that the pair had already wed.

For the future of her career, it is rumoured that Kunis is set to move behind the camera, as so many seasoned actors and actresses do. It was announced in October 2014 that Kunis, along with partners, had

With Justin Timberlake at the premiere of 'Sex with Benefits' in Ritz Carlton Hotel, Moscow, Russia 31

[health and beauty ]

COSMETIC SURGERY

SIX STEPS TO MAKING SURE YOU ARE CHOOSING THE RIGHT SURGEON. If you’re considering cosmetic surgery it’s natural to have some concerns.

The majority of cosmetic surgeons will have your best interests at heart, helping you to make the decision that’s right for you, but there are a minority who will be more interested in taking your money.

One of the UK’s leading Cosmetic Surgery Groups, MyBreast, all of whose surgeons are accredited by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) and/or the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) say it’s important that your first meeting is with your surgeon – not a sales person.

If you are concerned about who is advising you on your surgery, here are six tell-tale signs that your ‘surgeon’ is really just a salesperson; 1. They are quick to point out your ‘flaws’ A cosmetic surgeon should not make you feel unhappy about your appearance or suggest treatments you have not mentioned. If you are discussing a breast lift and your surgeon starts talking about other parts of your body it’s likely they are not working in your best interests.

2. They are not interested in your recent history BAAPS recommends that cosmetic surgery should, as a rule, be avoided in the immediate aftermath of a major life event such as divorce, changing jobs or having children. If your surgeon fails to ask if there’s been any recent disruption in your life it’s a sign that your welfare is less important than profit.

3. The consultation is free Commercial clinics often use free consultations to get you through the door.They recoup the cost by encouraging you to have surgery, even if it isn’t in your best interests. In some cases clinics can offer free consultations because your meeting will be with a sales person and not a surgeon.

4. The consultation is rushed If you feel like you’re being rushed you’ll find it more difficult to make a confident decision. Consultations are rushed for one of two reasons: either the clinic is trying to squeeze in as many as possible, or they want to gloss over any risks involved. Neither is acceptable.

5. Before and after photographs If your surgeon spends more time showing you before and after photographs than listening to you, it could be a sign that you are not their top priority. Even if the photos are genuine, a much better predictor of success and your satisfaction is the surgeon’s qualifications and experience.

6. They want you to sign today You should never be pressured into making a decision and responsible surgeons will be more than happy for you to take the time to come to an informed decision. Some might even tempt you to commit to surgery on the spot by offering a time-sensitive discount.

Be aware that promotions, offers or deals on cosmetic surgery prices are illegal.

To Book a consultation with a top UK cosmetic surgeon call MyBreast on: 0843 778 1305 Or visit www.MyBreast.org for more information on procedures and their industry-leading aftercare policy.

33

NEW YEAR ...

[days out ]

NEW OPPORTUNITIES….

NEW REASONS TO VISIT POWELL-COTTON MUSEUM, HOUSE AND GARDENS

2015 AT THE POWELL-COTTON MUSEUM IS SET TO BRING MANY GREAT EVENTS, PROJECTS AND INITIATIVES AND THERE IS A REAL SENSE OF PURPOSE AND PRODUCTIVITY IN THE AIR! TO KICK-START THE YEAR, THE MUSEUM HAS LAUNCHED THEIR NEW MEMBERSHIP SCHEME WHICH OFFERS MEMBERS AN EXCITING ARRAY OF BENEFITS. The museum is a charitable Trust that does not receive core funding from the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. As such, they are incredibly grateful for the additional financial support they receive from their visitors. Voluntary income such as Membership allows the museum to grow as an institution and to care for their internationally renowned collections and the gardens which are currently undergoing restoration. Most importantly, this income helps the museum to achieve the original vision of their Founder, Major Powell-Cotton who wanted the museum - "Held in trust for the benefit of students and the enjoyment of visitors."

Income from Membership at the Powell-Cotton Museum will help to fund the important scientific and

Quex Park Library 34

educational work that takes place in their institution and the benefits are very enticing to those interested in becoming a Member. Free entry to the Museum, House and Gardens, discounts offered with the Membership card will be available at Quex Barn, Jungle Jims, Mama Feelgoods, Turner Contemporary and some shows at the Winter Gardens and Theatre Royal. The museum will also host a Members evening later in the year which promises to be an interesting exclusive event. Their website offers detailed information regarding the benefits and is worth a visit.

The event programme at the museum this year offers an exciting variety of talks, exhibitions, fairs and holiday activities, as you would expect.

Favourite events will again be on offer, Conservation Heroes, Night at the

Percy's Journey

Museum, Welcome to the Jungle and our Springtime Walk in the Gardens with the Head Gardener, to name just a few. There are also some exciting new events be offered this year including a new Prom event being hosted in Quex Gardens in July, an event which promises to attract many music lovers to the venue.

The year of events starts with the February half term activity for families entitled 'Percy's Journeys’. Activities, storytelling and the chance to discover more about Percy’s expeditions will be available to children and adults alike.

Object handling session based on the Majors trips, includes question and answer session and time for creative responses to the objects and trips. There are two sessions per day 11am and 2pm (pre-booking essential).

[days out ]

Image credit to Nikhilesh Havel

On Wednesday 18 February the museum is delighted to welcome author Ann Scott and illustrator Patrick George as they invite visiting families to become a rescue hero to help rescue some animals and choose the right habitat for them. Ann will be reading their amazing new book ‘Animal Rescue’ and there will be an opportunity to get your personal signed copy at the event.

Proceeds from sales of this wonderful book will be donated to the Born Free Foundation. Will Travers OBE, President of the Born Free Foundation will be attending the launch of the book.

Also in February the Powell-Cotton Museum will be the first venue for a

prestigious touring exhibition from the British Museum entitled “Social Fabrics “generously supported by the John Ellerman Foundation. When this exhibition moves on to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter in May, the Powell-Cotton Museum will, for the first time, display its own textile collections in the space vacated by Social Fabrics. Both textile displays, particularly with their planned level of community and educational involvement, will give an essentially historical collection a sharp focus on the 21st century.

As we continue our commemoration of the WW1 centenary, another new event for 2015 entitled 'Quex Revisited'

Valuation Day on Sunday 29 March gives our visitors an opportunity to bring WW1 related objects for valuation, a series of local history groups specialising in WW1, learn how to research their own family history and listen to a WW1 history lecture. March culminates in the annual Visit Kent Big Weekend event, visitors have the chance to visit the Museum for FREE as part of this countywide event.

More information on the new and exciting membership scheme, all of the events, exhibitions and the talks and entry fees are available on the website www.quexmuseum.org

“It was a relief meeting a cosmetic surgeon rather than a sales person” MyBreast offer an unrivalled service for all your cosmetic surgery requirements at 20 prestigious hospitals across the UK and provide the industry’s most comprehensive aftercare policy.

If you are considering cosmetic surgery, book a consultation with a BAAPS/BAPRAS accredited surgeon who will answer all your questions before, during and after your surgery.

Call 0843 778 1305 or visit www.mybreast.org 35

[title ] Margate Theatres Spring 2015

Theatre Royal

Big Comedy Spectacular Thursday 22nd January

Selladoor Theatre - Jekll & Hyde Wednesday 4th March

Dr Livingstone, I Presume?

Friday 23rd January

Black Theatre Live - Macbeth 6th & 7th March

Showaddywaddy Saturday 24th January

Fuel & Tortoise in a Nutshell - Feral 13th & 14th March

Gavin Robertson - Bond Friday 30th January

The Searchers in Concert Saturday 21st March

Long Nose Puppets Arthur’s Dream Boat Saturday 31st January

Mrs McMoon’s Tea Party Sunday 22nd March

White Rabbit - 366 Days of Kindness Sunday 1st February

Clod Ensemble - The Red Chair Friday 3rd April Thanet Gang Show Vamos Theatre - Nursing Lives 2nd, 4th & 6th April Saturday 14th February Shakespeare’s Globe Miles Jupp - Is The Chap Romeo and Juliet You’re Thinking Of 8th & 9th April DVD Recording Sunday 15th February Police Panto - Fanny Folkly 19th - 21st February

London Theatre Trip Charlie & the Chocolare Factory Wednesday 11th February Valentine’s Dance Rendezvous Club Saturday 14th February The Simple Simon Happiness Show Sunday 15th February

LDN Wrestling Sunday 29th March 10th Planet Thanet Easter Beer Festival 3rd & 4th April MAZE 10th - 15th April Tree Fu Tom Sunday 19th April

Sally Morgan Psychic Sally on the Road Thursday 5th March

Lee Nelson - Suited & Booted Thursday 23rd April Simple Minds Friday 24th April

OperaUpClose The Marriage of Figaro Saturday 11th April

Tom Crean: Antarctic Explorer Theatre Royal Youth Theatres Saturday 28th February Hans Christian Andersen Fairy Tales Fascinating Aïda 15th & 16th April Charm Offensive Tuesday 3rd March

The All Stars 26th Annual Charity Concert Sunday 22nd March

GEEK 2015 20th - 22nd February

A Night of Dirty Dancing Sunday 8th March

Steeleye Span Tuesday 24th February

36

Vienna Festival Ballet 35th Anniversary Gala Sunday 15th March

Jackson Live in Concert Friday 6th February

University of Chichester Touring Sweet Charity 28th & 29th March

Your Leisure working in partnership with:

Rene & Edith’s Comedy Dinner Show Friday 13th March

Horace’s Palace of Fun Saturday 21st March

John Shuttleworth Friday 13th February

Rich Hall - 3:10 to Humour Friday 27th February

Sam Bailey Monday 26th January

Count Arthur Strong Thursday 26th March

Jasmin Vardimon - Park 6th & 7th February

My Dog’s Got No Nose Thursday 26th February

Winter Gardens

Pure Elite Muscle & Fitness Saturday 25th April Circus of Horrors The Night of the Zombie Thursday 12th March Puppetry of the Penis Live!

Friday 13th March

Pasha Kovalev Life Through Dance Thursday 30th April Texas & Special Guests Sunday 3rd May

Box Office: 01843 292795 margatewintergardens.co.uk | theatreroyalmargate.com

[music ]

DIGITAL MUSIC

BY BRADLEY MCMANUS

EVOLVED

This month East Kent based co-founder and editor of www.a3musiconline.com Bradley McManus gives us the low down on the rise and rise of digital music, and the advantages for musicians, music, and music lovers.

In mid-June 2014 the Official Charts Company changed the rules on music to allow tracks that are streamed to be included in the main UK chart. At the time of writing Bastille’s Pompeii was the highest streamed track yet only reached number two in the charts, OCC boss Martin Talbot said it was about, “future proofing the chart.”

Just over 3 months after the rule change, the first track (which would go on to be number one on its physical release) entered the charts without selling a single copy. Meghan Trainor’s All About The Bass hit number 33 based purely on digital plays on Spotify, Deezer & other music sites.The question that begs to be answered though, is this fair?

On the one hand it does technically mean that any song can reach the top

of the charts, let alone simply enter the charts. As a ball park figure, a number one hit needs about 100,000 sales in a week.

Each stream counts as 1% towards a single sale so if you wanted to be number one in streaming alone, you would need to notch up 10,000,000 streams – which is a fair ask!

Speaking to industry analysts, it seems this method is allowing head-hunters to work with a little more than, “my mate says they’re good.”The list compiled on a weekly basis shows the top 100 tracks which only requires approximately 2,500 sales (or 250,000 streams). Let’s break that down further, based on rules of the system allowing 7 days of data and 10 plays per user per day, you would only need about 3,500 people to chain listen to one of your tracks for a week. OK,

so it’s still pretty hard to break into the business but I suppose that’s a good thing.

I for one, do not buy music anymore, I have not done so for a long time.

Working in media, I have a synced up Spotify account and no desperate need to go out and buy something when I can download it to my device for free.

I gather from a few conversations that some people are very confused by this but it would be fair to say my opinion should be counted. It’s why I’m glad this addition to the chart had been made.

Power will still rule mainly because an average local band can’t compete with the media machine that is a large record label. It does give the opportunity though and sometimes that’s all that it needed.

Improbable? Maybe. Impossible?

Not any more…

37

title ] out ] [days

FOREVER ALBION

BY MELODY MILLER

ALBION HOUSE HOTEL, RAMSGATE

Atop the east cliff of Ramsgate, overlooking the only Royal Harbour in the country, a very special building has been brought back to life… Albion House Ramsgate has opened its doors, and inside we discovered a treasure trove of delights for a restful, luxury stay…

This historic building has undergone an impressive multi-million pound refurbishment in the last year, the attention to detail and care in restoration clear to see from the minute you walk through the door.

An open fireplace welcomes guests in from out of the cold, artwork by Anne Carrington stealing the eye away from the gorgeous black and white marble floor.We were greeted at the desk by

friendly staff who took our bags up to our room so we can partake of an aperitif and have a wander through the hotel.

Settling in the Town Hall bar, we were spoilt for choice when it came to the menu as we sampled a local beer and enjoyed the view of the sea from the cliff top of Ramsgate.The Town Hall Bar is situated in an adjoining building, a late addition in the 1970’s which was once the Major’s office, and the bar top

has been built using the impressive desk where daily business and current affairs took place with the original inkwells still on show.There is also a striking stone fireplace that we were told has come all the way from a barn in Normandy.The warm lights and careful arrangement of beautiful furniture quickly put us at ease.

The service at the Albion is impeccable, and the impressive wine list, I am pleased to note, had a fair few Kentish names among its offerings.

Albion House’s history is rich and colourful. It was constructed back in 1791 and boasts an impressive list of patrons past and present. None are more impressive than the great Queen Victoria, and the room we were allocated once hosted a young Princess Victoria, who came to stay by the coast to recover from illness shortly before becoming queen.

Inside the rooms it is clear that there has been no expense spared, and the floor to ceiling Carrera marble bathrooms are pure luxury. All the furniture is handselected and antiques that add to an authentic feeling that flows throughout the floors of the house. Staying in winter we got to appreciate the cosy fire place but it was definitely the wrap around balcony in our suite which stole the

38

out ] [days[title

show. Stepping out into the crisp night air, glass of wine in hand, one is presented with quite simply the most stunning sunset over the Kentish coast.With the light fading over the Royal Harbour, the sound of seagulls in overhear, and the boats bobbing softly in the harbour it really is one of those “life doesn’t get much better than this” moments.

We took dinner in the Georgian dining rooms with the log fires in the background giving a natural warmth and that unforgettable smell, and I was happily distracted by the décor whilst waiting for our food.The artwork on the deep blue walls is a series from the Irish National Gallery, it takes a moment to sink in; they are the backs of famous paintings.The dining room is elegant and packed with character, and I’m happy to report that the food matched up! fires lit, and sofas comfortable. So often the hotel lounge is a discarded place, a space for show rather than for use, but here it’s so inviting, it’s hard to want to venture out further.

Having only opened just before

Christmas, downstairs was not quite finished when we visited, but we took the chance to be shown around the cellars, a place that once stored the town valuables but now boasts something just as exciting - wine and cheese ▼

The dinner menu is a well-balanced mix of local fish, meats and treats and I plumped for the wild wood pigeon and pancetta pork tenderloin, a beautifully earthy, succulent pigeon breast, followed by a wonderfully moist and tender(loin).

I had no room for dessert but managed a couple of post dinner drinks in ‘the snug’,

39

[days out ] tasting evenings! There is also a private dining room, perfect for events, special nights and parties.The cellar space in enchanting, and the chambers beneath the floors still holding the original arches and doors.We were told that there is soon to be a seaweed spa, so a second visit had already been planned before the night was through.

full), Albion House, Ramsgate is a welcome addition to the Thanet coastline, and the sensitive refurbishment a real credit to the proprietors, Emma and Ben

Irvine and Gay and John Haynes. One feels that there is still plenty of history left to be made in this historic building!

The morning sees the dining rooms flooded with light, and a breakfast menu to suit all tastes. Child friendly and dogfriendly, the hotel has done well to cater to both locals as well as tourists, and it’s this balance that has already seen the hotel and bar do brisk business since their recent opening.

Ramsgate’s Royal Harbour is a beautiful place for a morning walk, and the staff were extremely helpful in directing us to galleries and amenities to keep us occupied, and a walk along the sandy beaches is a must, even in the mid-Winter.

For a break where you leave feeling cherished and revitalised (not to mention

'NOW OPEN'

ALBION HOUSE Albion Place, Ramsgate, CT11 8HQ www.albionhouseramsgate.co.uk E: bookings@albionhouse.co.uk T: +44 (0)1843 599426 40

www.facebook.com/albionhousehotel Twitter @albionhh Instagram @albionhh

The Eatery InsideKent October 2014.pdf

W O N

O

1

16/09/2014

15:54

N E P

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9.00 - 5.00 | SUNDAY 11.00 - 4.00

St. Georges Street, Canterbury, Kent. CT1 2TB | TEL 01227 766866 | www.fenwick.co.uk/canterbury

41

RESTAURANT REVIEW

title ]and drink ] [food

SALTWOOD ON THE WORDS BY GEORGE SHAW

Green

A hot new restaurant has been wowing gourmet travellers down on the south Kent coast, with reports of some of the most exciting cooking to reach the county in recent years. East Kent Lifestyle sent George Shaw along to investigate.

Located in one of the south-east's prettiest villages just north of Hythe near Folkestone, Saltwood on the Green, a stylishly refurbished restaurant, is a real delight. The former general store devotes a whole wall to the original shelving and the bare wood floor boards have been scrubbed within an inch of their lives.

The restaurant’s setting isn't let down by the food. The overriding theme, for both the décor and food, is ‘simplicity’.

But don’t let that fool you. That there is a creative mind at work in the kitchen quickly becomes evident. You will normally need to travel to the Premier League of London eateries to experience cooking of this calibre.

Chef/owner, the Chicago-born Jeff Kipp knows his stuff. He has worked in some of the world’s best kitchens. He trained at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in Minnesota and the Charlie Trotters – hailed as the “Best Restaurant in America.”

His stellar career has also taken him, via the Caribbean, to Gordon Ramsay's three Michelin-starred SW3. Jeff ’s CV also reveals exec chefing roles at London’s Sushi Samba, the renowned Brazilian-cum-Japanese-cum-Peruvian 42

combo and Bishopsgate’s 40th floor open-all-hours Duck & Waffle – the highest in UK. Jeff has some interesting new takes on classic dishes. Interesting enough to attract the attentions of fellow Gordon Ramsay protégé Mark Sargeant, whom according to locals is a regular when off duty from his own acclaimed Rocksalt harbour front restaurant in Folkestone.

Jeff uses sauces to achieve visual effect on the plate and enhance his creations, rather than to swamp the food.

The Saltwood newcomer is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Light bites will set you back about £40 a head.

The front of house is admirably orchestrated by the Florentine Gianpaulo Gori, whom we recognised from the Vine in Goudhurst and has also worked in Michelin-starred establishments and enjoyed successful spells in the United States.

We would have like to have sat at the small bar to try one of their own recipes ‘artisan’ cocktails – even tonic water is homemade – but all four seats were taken. So, to accompany my Lenka Swizzle and Mrs Long-Suffering’s

Saltwood Spritz, we made do with our window seat and ordered a plate of the home made soft pretzels with a tangy rarebit spread. The place is small and was packed, so booking is advisable.

The modern British menu leans on the abundance of quality produce which is available locally and the emphasis is on smaller and sharing plates.

I kicked off with ham hock and chicken terrine with pistachios and cranberry, which though good was not exceptional.

Mrs L-S fared better with a hot smoked salmon dish with horse radish, pickled apple and radish. The oily (Omega-3) crisped skin alone justified the visit on a cold winter’s evening.

To follow we both chose remarkably well. My loin of venison with salt baked swede and spiced red cabbage was melt in-the-mouth tender, yet still rare, a combination which can only be achieved with the employment of expert sous-vide cooking techniques.

With goose off the menu, deemed insufficiently succulent to make the grade, Mrs L-S opted for the duck with a rich chestnut stuffing with creamy potatoes dauphinoise. It was sublime

[food and drink ]

and very “ducky”, unlike the cheaper pumped up canards found all too often on the nation’s plates. Avoiding the suggested pairing, we found the £25 bottle of heavy duty Rioja to be excellent accompaniment. There are some very good English – and American – bottles on the list, but they lived to fight another day.

The evening almost concluded with the divine dark chocolate mousse with a toasted slap of marshmallow

and Chantilly cream with overtures to the chef ’s American roots. And a fine conclusion it would have been.

But Gianpaulo tempted us with delights from the Winter Warmer section of the menu. Mine was the ‘Smoking Bishop – a comforting Dickensian concoction of cognac, port and mulled syrup which is referenced in ‘A Christmas Carol’.

ML-S Eggnog coffee with spiced rum and topped with a floating foam of crème ingles, also hit the spot.

All in all, Saltwood on the Green is up with the very best in Kent and I expect its reputation to spread much further afield throughout 2015.

Opening hours Wednesday to Saturday 9am to 3pm and 6pm to 11.00pm; Sunday 11.30am to 5pm.

Saltwood on the Green, The Green, Saltwood near Hythe, Kent CT21 4PS T: 01303 237 800 Tw: @SaltwoodGreen W: www.saltwoodrestaurant.co.uk

43

THE Captain Digby FAMILY PUB, RESTAURANT & CLIFFTOP BEER GARDEN

HOME-cooked food

All freshly prepared on site using local ingredients great coffee, excellent wine & superb real ale Indoor & outdoor Childrens ‘pirates’ playground Book now on: 01843 867 764 WWW.captaindigby.co.uk The Captain DIgby, WhitEness Road, Kingsgate, Broadstairs, Kent CT10 3QH

44

[food and drink ]

LEE BEHAN Lee's love affair with food started at an early age, joining his Chef father in professional kitchens every spare weekend or holiday available. At the tender age of 13 he cooked dessert for a list of dignitaries which included HRH Princess Anne; opting for a seasonal Summer Pudding with clotted cream.

As he notes himself "it involved no real cooking". Lee has had the opportunity to cook with many of the UK's leading chef's including Mark Hix, Anna Hansen MBE and Gizzie Erksine; celebrities such as actress and designer Sadie Frost, singer Boy George and Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci have all enjoyed Lee's food via varied & epic fundraising dinners.

PAN FRIED

HALLUOMI WITH CORRIANDER

&

CAPER DRESSING

BY LEE BEHAN

As we leave behind the excesses of the Christmas period, I still crave hearty food, but maybe less carbs. Halloumi is such a versatile cheese and has a meaty texture, especially when fried. This dish can be served as a main course or as a starter, but ensure you have lots of dressing as it absolutely makes this dish - Enjoy!

SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS:  2 PACKS OF HALLOUMI

 1 LARGE BUNCH CORIANDER

 8 LARGE TBSP OF PLAIN FLOUR

 300ML EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL

 SUNFLOWER OIL FOR FRYING

 50ML WHITE WINE VINEGAR  1 TBSP WHOLEGRAIN MUSTARD

PROCESS:

1. First job is to get the dressing made so the flavours can infuse. Do this by placing all ingredients into a large jug and giving a good mix and then season with the salt & pepper.

2. Season the plain flour and place on plate.

3. Carefully slice the Halloumi so each slice is about 5cm thick and then dip each piece into the flour.

4. Heat a frying pan and add the sunflower oil and once hot fry batches of 4 - 5 slices of the Halloumi on each side until its golden brown. Keep the the remaining Halloumi warm whilst

 LARGE BUNCH OF CHOPPED CORIANDER  2 TBSP OF CAPERS  SALT AND PEPPER

you complete the remainder of the frying. The pan may need more oil.

5. Place the Halloumi on each plate and cover in lashings of the dressing and serve with fresh salad leaves of your choice (I know its January, but a good chunk of white baguette is great for mopping the plate with).

45

[food and drink ] Renee's Health Food Tips

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Renee Maguire is a chef, raw nutrition coach, food writer and motivational healthy eating speaker. Through discovering the benefit of her own health improvements she has dedicated her work to helping others find a balance between the foods they love to eat and the foods their body needs.

Renee writes for a variety of newspapers, magazines and blogs, and tours the country delivering inspirational motivational talks and food workshops to find out more visit www.rawchifood.com or email renee@ rawchifood.com PHOTOGRAPHY BY JO DORAN

LOVE YOURSELF IN 2015 START THIS NEW YEAR WITH A DETOX.

I am often asked, what is a detox? Most people think it is a period of abstaining from alcohol and junk food and being a little bit healthy. But completing a week raw food or green smoothie detox, has countless benefits.

By fully detoxing, you are allowing your body to complete the process of neutralizing or eliminating toxins from the body. Toxins (anything that can potentially harm body tissue) are transformed chemically to less harmful compounds and excreted.

Sources of toxins include those produced in the body during normal functions such as; the ammonia produced during the breakdown of protein, chemicals such as pesticides, household cleaners, food additives, drugs, pollution, cigarette smoke, and heavy metals that enter the body when we ingest or inhale them.

Our bodies have a natural ability to detoxify despite all the junk food, caffeine, and alcohol that we consume over a lifetime. However, for some of us, years of neglect leave our cells weakened and at risk of damage, which in turn affects our immune system which can lead to chronic disease. By giving our body a helping hand and pouring nutrient rich food in, we can change the course of our health and wellbeing.

Regular detoxification and a balanced healthy diet are the building blocks of preventative medicine.

46

Even with a healthy diet, many of us live in built up industrial areas, under flight paths, use chlorinated pools, mobile phones, have our clothes dry cleaned, or use pesticides at home and in our garden. The list for modern day living is endless and my point is, unless we are living on the foot of a cliff top, breathing in fresh sea air and drinking water from a fresh water stream, the sad reality is that to protect ourselves we must appreciate that our body has an awful lot of every day toxins and chemicals to remove to stay healthy. Detoxing twice a year will go a long way to protecting your health and wellbeing and giving your body a rest from doing all of the work.

After a detox, you can expect to feel better than you have in years, you will look and feel lighter and have heaps more energy. The detoxification of your major organs, liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, lower and upper intestines, and the cleansing of your bloodstream enhances your body’s natural ability to digest food and retain the essential nutrients and vitamins.

You can also expect to see an improvement in your libido levels, you will sleep more soundly, and will look years younger.

Your body confidence will improve, after you have seen the result of cleansing after just 7 days, you will be motivated to achieve the body you want. Once you get in tune with eating to increase your health and vitality, the benefits far out way the desire to gorge on harmful foods.

BEETROOT LIVER CLEANSE 4 beetroot 4 carrots 2 apples 3 inch piece of ginger Pass all ingredients through a juicer and serve straight away to ensure you optimise the nutrtion.

For more information on successful January detoxification go to www.rawchifood.com

RESTAURANT HOURS SUNDAY: Tuesday 8.00am - 9pm last orders WEDNESDAY: 8.00am – 9.30pm last orders THURSDAY – FRIDAY: 8.00am – 10.00pm last orders

BAR HOURS EVERYDAY: 8.00am – till late

Tel 01843 585008 website www.milesbarramsgate.com contact sally@milesbarramsgate.com mailto:mick@milesbarramsgate.com

47

[title ]

48

FRESH WAFFLES WITH CHOCOLATE SAUCE LUXURY HOT CHOCOLATE StUNNING VIEWS LOCAL ARTISTS GALLERY FREE WIFI BOOK SWAP CORNER @bschocbar facebook.com/bernieschocbar

OPEN EVERY DAY

2-14 High Street, Margate, CT9 1AT 01843 221 420

Purveyors of the ямБnest confectionary in Ramsgate & Margate Ramsgate Now Open: 42-44 Harbour Street, Ramsgate, CT11 8HA

01843 570330

Margate Old Town: No 3 Market Street, Margate Old Town, CT9 1EU

01843 220606 53

Garage and/or allocated parking included with some apartments

[title ]

23 High Street, Whitstable, Kent CT5 1AP

Exceptional apartments in Whitstable...

Built with

‘lifestyle’ in mind.

WestBay Court is an exceptional and prestigious new development of eight apartments and a luxury penthouse for sale with unrivalled 360O views across Whitstable Bay. The Apartments have been created by a local developer from a landmark, iconic 60’s building in the heart of the fashionable beachside resort of Whitstable, Kent.

The high speed link to London (St.Pancras) takes approximately 72 minutes from the mainline railway station at Whitstable. Both Folkestone’s Channel Tunnel and the Port of Dover are accessible within 45 minutes.

Apartments from £160k - £500k | 5th Floor Penthouse £1m To request a brochure, please call either: Strutt & Parker tel: 01227 451123 . www.struttandparker.com Christopher Hodgson tel: 01227 266441 . www.christopherhodgson.co.uk 54 • Apartments 3, 4, 5 & 6 EPC = B • Apartments 1, 2, 7 & 8 EPC = C

Christopher

Hodgson

[fashion ] COAST WATERPROOF JACKET £69.95

JUST AT FENWICKS, CANTERBURY.

55

[fashion ]

FIELD COAT £229.00

56

AT FENWICKS

[fashion ]

MAYWELL PRINTED SHIRT £29.95

AT FENWICKS

57

[fashion ]

RAINA PARKA £69.95

58

AT FENWICKS

[fashion ]

HOLTHORPE JACKET £129.00

AT FENWICKS

59

[fashion ]

SLIM FIT SHIRT £49.95

CHINOS £49.95

60

AT FENWICKS

[fashion ]

COWDRAY SWEATSHIRT £49.95

AT FENWICKS

61

[fashion ]

SLIM FIT SHIRT £49.95

CHINOS £49.95

62

AT FENWICKS

HAIRSTYLIST

since 1972

MALCOLMS 91 High Street | Broadstairs | Kent

Modern & Traditional Men’s Hairstyling Appointments Optional

01843 865230 / 864256

63

[title ]

So Much Fun! At Kent College our Nursery enjoys idyllic surroundings

Do come and see us, every day is an open day Nursery, Infant & Junior School 01227 762436 CT2 9AQ www.kentcollege.com 64

[education ]

A SENSE OF

SELF WORTH AT KENT COLLEGE, CANTERBURY

CANTERBURY has been voted one of the best places to live in the South East by The Sunday Times. One of the twelve reasons given for Canterbury’s success in the poll is the calibre of its schools: Kent College, Canterbury being one of the strongest contenders.

Academically, Kent College has been rated in the top 25% of schools nationally for the value added that it achieves for all of its pupils.The school is now world renowned for its academic reputation, offering the International Baccalaureate alongside A levels. It prides itself as being in the top 10 schools nationally for the IB with average points of 37.4, and it’s A level results place it in the top 100 schools of its kind in the country. Kent College also regularly achieves 100% GCSE pass rate.These results alone are praiseworthy but it is all the acclaim that the school achieves alongside fantastic academic results that make it truly remarkable.

Every one of the accomplishments that follow has taken place in the last twelve months. In the STEM ( Science,Technology, Engineering and Maths) arena, head girl, Eva Harris, won a national competition run by the Physiology Society; our Year 9 team were finalists at the Big Bang Science and Engineering Competition; no fewer than 9 students received gold level in the UK Maths Challenge; the year 10 maths team won the regional round of the Further Maths Support Programme, and not to be left out, the year 11 team won the Gold Crest Award for their engineering project.

Youth Award for Hockey; the U18 Girls are National Indoor Hockey Finalists as well as being County Champions in the outdoor game; seven players have been selected during the year to play hockey at national level; the Watton sisters have competed in the Scottish Open Tennis Tournament; three of our athletes represented the county at the National Cross-Country competition at Donington Park; one of our young horse-riders has qualified for the National Schools’ Competition and finally, one of our skiers won medals in all three disciplines at the British Ski Racing event.

The school's young choristers are hard at work practising for their performances in the finals of BBC Songs of Praise Choir of the Year and Barnardo's National Choir of the Year. No fewer than three of our students have been selected for the prestigious Canterbury Cathedral Girls’ Choir.

The student led Charities Committee raised a phenomenal £8,000 last term.

All of this does not happen by chance, it happens because the children are empowered with a sense of self-worth and encouraged to participate and excel both in and outside the classroom. Kent College is very proud to be part of the thriving City of Canterbury community!

On the sports field, Lizzie Neal has won the Higgins Trust U.16 National

www.kentcollege.com 65

Inspiring excellence

Come and visit us Saturday 7 February To Infinity and Beyond activity morning (ages 6 - 10) Thursday 12 March Pre-Prep & Junior School Open Morning (ages 7 - 13) Individual visits by appointment any time An independent, co-educational day and boarding school | www.stedmunds.org.uk | 01227 475601

Successful Start for The Nursery at East Kent College After a successful first term, The Nursery at East Kent College has its official opening ceremony on the 23rd of January 2015.

The Nursery opened in September 2014 welcoming children of staff, students and families from the local communities. The nursery consists of three main rooms, baby, toddler and preschool, has two spacious gardens and an additional self-styled sensory room containing resources designed to promote sensory development in young children.

To promote high quality learning and development all staff are required to have a level 3 child care qualification or higher. Management 66

at the setting are qualified to a degree level and have Early Years Teacher Status which in turn ensures a high quality environment is promoted and maintained at all times.

The Nursery’s excellent location allows staff make the most of the beach and park, visiting these with the children regularly. Trips are also made to Broadstairs library during which children choose books that are used within the classroom to promote children’s interests.

The brand new, fully equipped kitchen provides a variety of freshly prepared snacks and meals using high quality organic ingredients when available.

Children are invited to help prepare

aspects of meals and snack times assisted by the nursery cook. The Nursery plans to grow their own vegetables and use them for meals, giving the children an insight into how their food is grown, picked, prepared and finally eaten.

Parents of The Nursery are able to track their children’s progress using a simple online Early Years Learning Journal and are able to contribute photos, observations and videos which are used by children’s Key persons to provide linked activities and experiences in-line with the children’s outside nursery interests.

For further details and to register your interest 01843 605042 or email nursery@eastkent.ac.uk

ST LAWRENCE COLLEGE

[education ]

WHY CHOOSE US?

When choosing a primary school, why do some parents opt for independent education? What are the benefits? Find out why parents choose St Lawrence College Junior School in Ramsgate:

having one class teacher who teaches every subject, pupils share each teacher’s passion for and knowledge of their subject as well as their high expectations.

• Pupils are taught in small classes (average of 12-16 pupils) and thrive in the secure and positive atmosphere.

Teachers really get to know each individual child’s needs, stretching and inspiring the most able whilst supporting and encouraging those whose confidence is still developing.

• Academic expectations are high and pupils achieve results which are usually well beyond national expectations.

• The school is proud of the traditional values it strives to uphold - discipline, manners and kindness towards others.

• Children benefit from being taught by specialist teachers. Rather than

• The Junior School is not restricted just to delivering the National Curriculum, but is able to offer pupils a wide variety of experiences and extra-curricular activities in addition.

• St Lawrence College Junior School has its own Science Lab, Art Studio, IT suites, separate Music Department and Performance Hall. It also shares the Senior School’s outstanding facilities,

including a Sports Complex, Design and Technology Centre, heated indoor swimming pool, 500-seat theatre, floodlit Astroturf pitches and acres of sports fields.

• Working parents can relax in the knowledge that their child is being well-cared for from 8am to 5pm (at no extra cost). Parents do not have to cut short their working day, with options to arrive before 8am, stay for supper, and even stay the night with occasional or flexi-boarding.

Why not take a look for yourself? Book a place at the next St Lawrence College Junior School Open Day on Friday 6 February. Everyone is welcome.

WWW.SLCUK.COM

Co-educational, Co-educational,day day&&boarding boardingschool schoolfor for3-18 3-18years yearsininSouth SouthEast EastEngland England

JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN DAY Friday 6 February 2015

10am – 12 noon & 1.30pm – 3pm Book a place to enjoy an informal tour of the school For more details and to book a place

T: 01843 572912 E: jsadmissions@slcuk.com

www.slcuk.com

St Lawrence College, College Road, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 7AE 67

?

[what's occurring ]

occurring

January-February

Saturday 24th January

Burns night @ Eastwell Manor, Boughton Lees nr Ashford Eastwell Manor, famous for its extensive range of malt whiskies, invites you to enjoy a magnificent five course dinner and dancing that will make you feel as if you are in Scotland.

The Independent dubbed Éclair, "The Queen of the killer wisecrack.

Tickets available from Sweetscene, Preston Street or call 07853 664877 Book online at: wegottickets.com/no5club

The evening will start with Rabbie Burns’ ‘Address to a Haggis’. You will then be piped into dinner at 20:00. But make sure you have your dancing shoes with you so that you are able to dance until midnight.

Friday 13th February

Please note that this is a black tie event.

Enjoy a traditional night full of music, masks and mysteries!

You will be welcomed with Champagne if you arrive at 19:00. Then there will be a delicious three-course dinner and love songs from award winning resident DJ Discologic.

For those wishing to make a night of it, you can stay at the magnificent Chilston Park Hotel for just £120 per person, per bedroom.

Call Tel: 01233 213020 to book or for more details £60.00 per person. Special overnight rates available.

Monday 26th January

Sam Bailey @ Winter Gardens, Margate

Valentines Masquerade Ball @ Chilston Park Hotel, Lenham nr Maidstone

Sam Bailey has announced she will perform a ‘very special, up-close-and-personal’, pre-tour concert at Margate Winter Gardens ahead of her first headline tour.

Price: £55 per person

Since winning X-Factor in 2013 her feet have barely touched the ground. Her debut album ‘The Power of Love’ just charted at #1 in the UK Album Chart. Sam stole the hearts of a nation in the most recent series of the popular TV show with her soaring spine-tingling vocals and now counts Gary Barlow amongst her biggest fans.

Saturday 14th – Sunday 15th February

The former prison officer has experienced dreams becoming reality; including an incredible No. 1 with her single Skyscraper, supporting Beyonce on her 2014 tour and performing with her idol Michael Bolton at the National Television Awards.

From 7.30pm Call 01843 292795 for tickets

Saturday 31st January

Jenny Éclair @ The Alexander Centre, Faversham Phil Zimmerman's No 5 Club and The Alexander Centre present Jenny Eclair, former Perrier Award winner, star of TV and radio.

Jenny Éclair is one of Britain’s most successful female comics, and was the first woman to win the coveted Perrier award at the Edinburgh Festival back in 1995.

In recent years she has been introduced to a wider public via her appearances on ITV’s “I’m

68

a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here”, and a regular slot on the BBC2 series “Grumpy Old Women”.

Call: 0845 0727426 or visit www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/ hotels/chilston-park

Thomas the Tank Engine @ Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden Thomas the Tank Engine will be pulling into Tenterden Station on14th, 15th, 21st and 22nd February and he's bringing some of favourite friends too!

2015 will mark 70 years since the birth of The Railway Series by the Rev. W. Awdry and the release of its first book, The Three Railway Engines.

Come and meet the Fat Controller and take a ride on Annie and Clarabel behind Thomas at Tenterden Station. Look out for a naughty diesel engine and the troublesome trucks.

Experience an enchanting return steam train ride through picturesque countryside between Tenterden and Northiam Station. You can also watch thrilling adventures with Thomas in 'Muddy Matters' on the big screen TV, or join in Thomas & Friends station scenarios and have fun in the 'Imagination Station'.

There will be lots of activities including face painting, roundabout rides and a bouncy castle, and meet Uncle Myles, Charlie the Clown and Billy the Magic Rabbit.

Entry: Adults £17, Children (up to 15) £13 Tel: 01580 765155 From 10am

[what's occurring ]

Friday 20th – Sunday 22nd February

G.E.E.K @ Winter Gardens, Margate

February-March

GEEK (Games Expo East Kent) is a festival of Play and Games. GEEK first launched in February 2012, it is held annually at Winter Gardens Margate, Kent, UK. GEEK offer digital and analogue activities for casual and dedicated gamers, with over 1000 playable video games to play on hundreds of consoles. Visitors can play games from the latest blockbusters to classics dating back four decades.

Other activities include board games, workshops, cards, the Cosplay Masquerade, performances, panel discussions, developer talks and tournaments.

GEEK has something for everyone, whether they want to play and compete, relax and try out something new, learn new skills or get an idea of their dream job using games and technology.

Call 01843 292795 for tickets

Tuesday 24th February

Fairport Convention @ Gulbenkian Theatre, Canterbury

combine to make this a show not to be missed.

Show starts 8pm Tickets from £28.90 available at www.atgtickets.com or call 01303 228600

Friday 13th March

Courtney Pine @ Revelation St Marys, Ashford No musician more embodies the dramatic transformation in the British jazz scene over the past twenty plus years than Courney Pine C.B.E Courtney makes a welcome return to St. Mary's Parish Church, Ashford, Kent and will be taking to the stage, playing bass clarinet and accompanied only by fellow Mercury nominee and MOBO Award-winning pianist Zoe Rahman.

All ages are welcome, but please note that children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Bar facilities available on the night.

Doors open 7pm for 8pm start

After one of the most successful years in their career, Fairport Convention take to the road with a new album of original songs. Hailed as the creators of British folk-rock music, the band members retain their passion for live performance making Fairport one of the most entertaining bands on the concert circuit.

Call Tel: 01233 330316 or visit http://revelationstmarys.co.uk/ for booking info.

Fairport's 2015 Winter Tour concerts will feature songs and tunes from the brand new studio album ‘Myths And Heroes’ as well as classics from a repertoire spanning nearly fifty years.

Strictly for the adults! From the West End of London to Broadway in New York, the boys have stretched themselves to the limit for over a decade performing the hilarious Ancient Art of Genital Origami and now they are back for more!

Each concert on the tour will feature an opening solo set from talented guitar-fiddle duo Kevin Dempsey and Rosie Carson.

Fairport Convention hold a coveted BBC Lifetime Achievement Award and their groundbreaking album Liege & Lief was voted 'Most Influential Folk Album of All Time' by Radio 2 listeners.

Tickets: Full £22 / Concessions £20 From: 7.30pm Call: Tel: 01227 769075 or visit www.thegulbenkian.co.uk/ events.html

Saturday 28th February

Alan Davies: Little Victories @ Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone Following the sell out success of his long-awaited return to stand up, Alan Davies returns with his highly anticipated follow up show, Little Victories.

Much lauded as resident dunderhead on QI or the charming but reticent crime solver Jonathan Creek, Davies virtuosic story-telling and whip-smart funny bones

Friday 13th March

Puppetry of the Penis @ Winter Gardens, Margate

Delivering an unforgettable evening of comic brilliance to sellout performances around the world, this mind-blowing show features two strapping Australians who manipulate their (not so) private parts into various shapes, objects and landmarks.

A video camera projects intimate details of these incredible phenomena onto a large screen ensuring that little can be missed!

This new show features firm favourites such as the Hamburger, the Wristwatch and the Windsurfer and is guaranteed to tickle parts you never knew you had! You’re NUTS if you miss it!

Doors Open 7.30pm for 8pm start Tickets £20 Booking fee applies 50p per ticket in person/ phone. Call 01843 292705 to book

Sunday 15th March

Mothering Sunday Lunch Every Mum deserves this Sunday off to relax! With Chef’s delicious 3-course lunch and the opportunity to take a stroll in the Cathedral grounds, Mum will be truly spoilt.

Price: £27.95 per adult or £12.95 per child under 14 years (under 4’s eat free).

Canterbury Cathedral Lodge, The Precincts, Canterbury CT1 2EH Tel: 01227 865350 or visit www.canterburycathedrallodge.org for more details

69

[health and beauty ]

FELLA’S GUIDE TO

GROOMING THE

GROOM

BY BOBBY GORDON @ FELLA, CANTERBURY

Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days in a man’s life.

All eyes are on you and your bride. You probably won't be photographed so many times in one day ever again in your life, so being well groomed is essential. With this in mind, here are Fella's 5 tips for wedding day grooming.

AVOID TRENDS

THE SKIN

Stick to a timeless style, your wedding photos will be seen (all going well) for decades. A trendy cut today will look dated pretty soon. Stay classic and natural.

It's not all about your hair. Treat your skin well as weddings are notoriously stressful, which could cause problems for your complexion.

TIMING

We’d recommend getting your hair cut about a week before the wedding, unless of course you sport particularly short hair – in that case two to three days prior to the wedding to make sure it’s looking tip-top. Here at Fella we’ll also offer you a complimentary neck trim the day before the nuptials to have you looking spic and span at the altar.

SHAVE

A perfect time to treat yourself to a professional wet shave. If you really want to keep some facial hair make sure it's shaped and tidy for the big day.

At Fella we take pride in our work and want you looking your best on your wedding day.

SLEEP

We can take care of you haircut and make sure your face is smooth and moisturised, but if you haven't slept or rested properly before your wedding it will show! Plan your stag do way before the wedding. Go to bed the night before and not to the bar!!

ONE LAST BONUS TIP - wear a smile, it's the only thing that won't cost a fortune on your big day...

GET YOUR HAIR CUT BY A PRO

Make sure you get your hair cut by someone who knows what they are doing, don’t scrimp on your big day.

Fella is the destination for sharp haircuts. Founded in 2009 by Bobby Gordon, a 15 year veteran of some of Soho’s hottest hair joints.

Fella is located in the heart of Canterbury, and brings a unique boutique feel to the barber shop experience like no other in the area. With no appointment necessary & late night openings you can kick back & listen to some cool beats whilst one of the expert stylists take care of you. Fella has a highly trained & skilled team who pride themselves on grooming for the modern man 70

EAST KENT

[weddings [title ]

WEDDINGS

Includes:

Divine Dresses PAGE 76 Wedding Hair PAGE 81 Wedding Cakes PAGE 91 Hot Honeymoons PAGE 95 Stunning Venues & plenty more inside‌ 71

[title ]

72

[weddings [title ]

PORT LYMPNE

MANSION & GARDENS

AN EXCITING WEDDING VENUE WITH A WILD TWIST Nestled at the heart of one of the UK’s largest wild animal parks – Port Lympne Reserve - is the Port Lympne Hotel.

The Edwardian mansion, originally commissioned by Sir Philip Sassoon and designed by the architect Sir Herbert Baker, offers couples a romantic and intimate wedding venue in beautiful surroundings, with particular emphasis on quality, service and great food and drink, overseen by our team of executive chefs and experienced wedding planners.

The Port Lympne Hotel - recently awarded the accolade of four stars by the VisitEngland National Quality Assessment Scheme, has six lavishly decorated bedrooms, four intriguing reception rooms and 15 acres of perfectly landscaped gardens, set against a stunning backdrop of far reaching, romantic and inspiring views over the reserve, to the coast line beyond.

The dramatically decorated rooms, polished floors, high ceilings and intricate details, provide the perfect backdrop for glamorous same sex and civil ceremonies. The elegant hotel can be hired in its entirety so that couples can enjoy their wedding, their way, or as an incredible party venue, ideal for an unforgettable reception.

Situated within one of the most picturesque areas in Kent, couples can choose from a variety of beautiful indoor and outdoor locations within the grounds to say their vows. During the summer, rings can be exchanged on the romantic, Italian inspired outdoor terraces. Alternatively, in the winter months, ceremonies can be conducted in one of the breathtakingly decorated ground floor rooms. The Aspinall Suite, adjoining the Mansion offers the ideal venue for eating, drinking and dancing after the ceremony, no matter what the weather holds in store.

The manicured gardens offer a wonderful backdrop for memorable photographs with glittering fountains cascading into ornamental ponds, colourful borders planted with vivid blooms, dramatic walkways and of course, the magnificent Trojan Steps – decorated with mystical Egyptian friezes.

As dusk falls, subtle, twinkling lighting illuminates the hotel and gardens, creating a magical atmosphere.

The 600 acre reserve, near Ashford, is home to the UK’s most authentic safari experience. Couples and their

wedding guests can enjoy a VIP safari to The African Experience – 100 acres of Kentish savannah alive with African animals. For wedding parties seeking a truly wild adventure, a variety of animal experiences can also be arranged, from meeting the Siberian tigers to feeding giraffe or black rhino.

Port Lympne reserve is the only wild animal park in the UK offering a variety of short break accommodations, including luxury glamping at multi award winning Livingstone Lodge, longer stays at Elephant Lodge and year round relaxation at Livingstone Cottage and the boutique hotel. This year, Pinewood camping pods and the Treehouse Hotel, the height of extravagance offering the ultimate treetop retreat, will be added to the reserve’s extensive accommodation portfolio. Wedding parties can opt to stay in any of the unique accommodations prior to and after the special day.

To find out more about your unique wedding at Port Lympne Reserve and to book a venue viewing please call 01303 234 111 or email info@ aspinallfoundation.org 73

GHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ marriott_bold_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ °·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ _bold_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € GHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? ¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ marriot_condensed_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ °·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ ondensed_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € HIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ marriot_condensed_medium_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ —±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ ondensed_medium_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € HIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? ¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ marriot_condensed_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ ondensed_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € GHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? ¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ ·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" €

[title ]

Pu N re EW W F e O Fr dd R om in 2 £2 g P 015 ,50 ac 0 kag e

2010 Marriott International, Inc.

2010 Marriott International, Inc.

YOUR PERFECT WEDDING VENUE YOUR PERFECT WEDDING VENUE Nestled 200 acres of beautiful Kent countryside, Park offers Nestled in 200inacres of beautiful Kent countryside, TudorTudor Park offers exquisite menus, Marriott exceptional service and lavish accommodation. exquisite menus, Marriott exceptional service and lavish accommodation.

CELEBRATE YOUR PERFECT WEDDING CELEBRATE YOUR PERFECT WEDDING DAYDAY AT AT TUDOR PARK WITH INCLUSIVE WEDDING TUDOR PARK WITH ALLALL INCLUSIVE WEDDING PACKAGES FROM £4000 50 GUESTS PACKAGES FROM £4000 FORFOR 50 GUESTS For more information to arrange a viewing, please contact For more information or to or arrange a viewing, please contact us onus on 632006 0162201622 632006

Tudor Park A Marriott Hotel & Country Club Ashford Road Bearsted MarriottTudorPark.co.uk Tudor Park A Marriott Hotel & Country Club Ashford Road Bearsted MarriottTudorPark.co.uk

Terms and Conditions apply Terms and Conditions apply

74

WEDDING OPEN DAY – SUNDAY 1ST FEBRUARY 2015 11AM – 4PM Quality Exhibitors • Free Admission • Free & Ample Parking

TUDOR PARK

[weddings ]

MARRIOT HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB

Exchange vows in the glorious Garden of England. Nestled in 200 acres of beautiful Kent countryside, Tudor Park Marriott Hotel and Country Club offers everything you need for the perfect wedding celebration.

Whether you’re looking for an elegant grand reception or a serene civil ceremony our exquisite wedding venue and welcoming associates will ensure that your day will be a memorable one.

Tudor Park has added a new dimension to the wedding experience; a beautiful gazebo set in the stunning grounds that include an 18 hole championship golf course and a nature reserve. Located next to the wildlife pond and just before the marquee, it is the perfect location on a summer’s day.

The Thurnham suite is our largest event room accommodating up to 180 guests for your wedding breakfast or 200 for an evening reception. With a private bar and a licence for ceremonies. Our Marque and interconnecting Bearsted suite offering panoramic views across the championship golf course and wild life pond are ideal for wedding breakfasts for up to 90 people and evening receptions for up to 120 guests.

With the patio providing an excellent backdrop for photographs and aperitifs.

Tudor Parks experienced wedding coordinators will be on hand to assist you with every aspect of planning your big day and can create bespoke packages as unique as your wedding day. New packages for 2015 include the Tudor Pure package from just £2,500 with free venue hire, in addition to three other fabulous packages catering to all your needs. The Tudor Classic, In-Style and Complete packages all include a night for the happy couple in one of our 120 deluxe bedrooms. Our Bridal Milgate Suite and Premium rooms have spectacular views across Tudor Park’s sweeping grounds. The bride and groom also receive a complementary gift of champagne, luxury chocolates and a bouquet of flowers on their happy day.

Our wedding coordinators will arrange a wine and menu tasting session with you and the Head Chef prior to your

big day. Our talented chefs will work with you to create an exciting customdesigned menu, using the freshest local Kentish produce.Your wedding feast is an expression of your individual style and tastes so we have produced an inspiring array of delicious contemporary and classic dishes to choose from to celebrate all religions and occasions.

Voted Marriott Golf Country Club of the Year,Tudor Park offers you and your guests the opportunity to stay and play together before or after the big day. Relax and experience the extensive leisure and spa facilities free of charge including the indoor pool, sauna and steam room.

The beauty salon and spa offer a range of pamper packages as well as regular individual treatments. After months of planning and organising, you will have earned a luxurious pamper session!

Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club Maidstone 01622 632006 www.MarriottTudorPark.co.uk 75

[weddings ]

DIVINE

DRESSES A COLLECTION BY MAGGIE SOTTERO FROM BRIDAL WAY, RAMSGATE

Established back in 1989, Bridal Way are proud to celebrate their 26th anniversary this year. Situated in the coastal town of Ramsgate they are the little shop with the big reputation known as one of the finest bridal shops in Kent.

Showcasing a stunning collection of bridal gowns bought to you by the worlds most sought after designers, you can be sure to find something you love. Providing excellent customer care and attention to detail, ensuring that you have the perfect experience when buying your wedding dress. To find out more about this fabulous bridal boutique or to make an appointment go to:

www.bridalway.co.uk 01843 850620

76

[weddings ]

77

[title ]

Kentish Weddings by the sea

78

[title ]

Wedding Venues For Your Special Day...

Enjoy your special day and have your wedding ceremony by the sea. Thorley Hotels Group have dedicated and experienced people in place to guide you through all of the necessary arrangements ensuring your Wedding Day is tailored to your dreams.

Call your venue of choice for more details The Pavilion, Harbour Street, Broadstairs 01843 600999 www.pavilion-broadstairs.co.uk The Pegwell Bay Hotel, Pegwell Road, Ramsgate 01843 599590 www.pegwellbayhotel.co.uk The Oak Hotel, Harbour Parade, Ramsgate 01843 583686 www.oakhotel.co.uk

www.thanetweddingvenues.co.uk 79

Jennifer Baker Timeless hair that you will love forever For all your bridal party needs

16 York Street Ramsgate CT11 9DS T: 01843 852 662 Obsessionssalon.co.uk 80

[weddings ]

WEDDING HAIR

BY JENNIFER BAKER OF OBSESSIONS SALON, RAMSGATE

Passionate and classic in her approach, Jennifer Baker has been a true power player in the local hairdressing industry since 1995. She started specializing in the wedding sector after completing a course with Royston and Blythe, the duo responsible for many celebrity wedding looks.

Picking the right hair stylist for your special day is hard work. Jennifer Baker a wedding hair specialist for over ten years shares with us her tips on how to successfully find “the one”.

SET YOUR BUDGET

they are trained professionals and it may just be the look you fall in love with.

Think about how much your happy to spend wedding hair can range from £60 - £200.

You can start by asking your normal hairdresser then find the names of hairdressers who specialize in wedding hair out of your local wedding magazines. If you still can’t find a stylist then ask your bridal shop whose work they can recommend. They hear lots of good industry professional’s names every day so will know first-hand which stylists are great.

TIP: If a hairdresser does lots of wedding hair they will be able to provide you with a wedding specific price list, it’s not uncommon to use a different hairdresser for your wedding day so contact a few and get a feel for things.

WORK OUT THE STYLIST

When you have narrowed it down to three stylists call each salon and ask for a 10min appointment to see the stylist’s portfolio.You can get a lot from this meeting, you’re looking for a stylist who’s confident in hair up, has done lots of weddings and had great feedback from past brides.

DON’T LEAVE IT TOO LATE

You will regret it! Even if you are DIYing you should be trialing at least 4 months before the big day.

TIP: Book your trial run for hair and make up the morning of a dress fitting.

This will enable you to pull the whole look together ahead of the wedding; most brides only get to do this on the actual day.

TIP: If every other bride has a cutting edge messy look and your style is contemporary and timeless this is not your stylist.

BOOK YOUR TRIAL RUN

The stylist should be asking you about the key details in your wedding, the dress, neckline and fabric, the bridesmaid’s style and your theme. They should then have a range of styles in mind for you to consider all meeting the brief you have provided them with and taking into account your face and head shape and your hair colour and texture.

TIP: If your stylist asks to just try something outside your brief go with it,

Remember, arranging a wedding is supposed to fun. Being organized and getting together a list of suppliers early will allow you to pick your way through the list and find some real gems.

I made up a mood board which I only showed suppliers (my wedding was top secret) it enabled everyone to get exactly what I wanted; from flowers and bespoke table cupcakes, to hair and make-up -and I got the wedding I’d always dreamt of.

For a list of our local hidden gems and our bridal price list go to www.obsessionssalon.co.uk or call on 01843 852662.

HAPPY PICKING! 81

[weddings ]

THE

PEGWELL BAY HOTEL, RAMSGATE

The Pegwell Bay Hotel is the hidden “Wedding Venue” gem in Thanet’s crown. With its unique offering of a completely private sea-side wedding venue. “Most of our weddings come from guests who attend other weddings here” said Richard Gregg, the Pegwell Wedding Co-ordinator. “Our breath-taking decking is so unique, as is our Gazebo where couples can get married al-fresco with the backdrop of the sea.”

The Pegwell has a wedding licence so couples can have the one stop shop they are looking for. With the Hotel, forty two rooms and the two function rooms, the possibilities are endless.

conditioning and a fantastic veranda overlooking the sea. The veranda area has casual seating, where your guests can relax whilst taking in the breathtaking surroundings.

The Ravenscliff Suite

The Ravenscliff suite, which also offers relaxed but formal dinners or lunches as well as evening entertainment, such as DJs or live bands and dancing, is the bigger of the suites, and can easily seat 130 guests.

The Ravenscliff suite has been fully refurbished with a modern contemporary feel.

It boasts a large fully equipped bar, a solid wood dance floor, air

82

As noted above, the Ravenscliff is licensed for DJs and bands and these can either be booked for you or you

can peruse a list of recommended artists who have performed at previous functions at The Pegwell.

The Clifton Suite

The smaller of the Hotel’s two suites is located one floor above sea level. With the recent addition of a fantastic new balcony, you will be able to admire the breath-taking views out to sea.

The room has been lovingly restored with the original features of the building remaining intact. Sporting high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, a stage

[weddings ] and ceiling height windows, the Clifton suite is a picture of true Victorian elegance.

The Clifton can seat 70 guests, and you have the option of relaxed but formal seated dinners or lunches, or less formal buffets with entertainment and dancing.

Both function rooms are easily accessible by the new modern lift, which serves all floors.

The in-house brigade of chefs are led

by Head Chef John Marchant. John has led the team at the Pegwell for over five years now and previous to that he had been Head Chef at two other Thorley venues.

“We really look forward to wedding days as it gives us the opportunity to really deliver as a team. The Menus we have created have proved really popular, however, because all my team are fully trained chefs, menus can be changed or altered to suit our client’s requirements” said John.

Barbecues are very popular in the summer months and can add a different twist to either the wedding breakfast or evening buffet.

The Pegwell Bay Hotel works very closely with local suppliers to enable them to offer a truly bespoke wedding, catering to every bride and groom’s needs.

The experienced team at the Pegwell have delivered hundreds of successful weddings and it is something the whole team enjoy. From the receptionists, to the bar and waiting staff, a wedding day is a special event and the whole team rise to the occasion.

A quote from one of 2014’s summer’s brides “we chose the Pegwell for its unique location and for the attention to detail shown by all the team there.

Many of my family and guests travelled from around the Country and they really enjoyed staying at the Hotel, especially as once on site they did not need to move venues for the whole of

the wedding day celebrations. The meal was fantastic, as was the service given by all of the team. Richard did a great job of making sure every detail was adhered to.”

The Pegwell caters for weddings of all sizes and budgets and it always pays to telephone and have a conversation as you never know what is possible until you ask.

The Pegwell Bay Hotel, the perfect Thanet wedding venue, with hotel rooms on site, a wedding licence so your guests do not need to relocate, indoor and outdoor wedding facilities, and a private decking area for your guests to enjoy the unique ambience of your sea-side wedding.

The Pegwell Bay Hotel, Pegwell Road, Ramsgate 01843 599590 www.pegwellbayhotel.co.uk

83

A beautiful boutique hotel and restaurant with stunning views over Margate Sands.

H O T E L

SANDS

SANDS HOTEL

16 Marine Drive, Margate, Kent CT9 1DH Come in or call to book a viewing or reservation 01843 228 228 www.sandshotelmargate.co.uk bay@sandshotelmargate.co.uk

[weddings [title]

A STUNNING

SANDS CEREMONY SANDS HOTEL, MARGATE

Sands Hotel opened to much fanfare back in 2013 as proprietor Nick Conington transformed this large, dilapidated Victorian building overlooking Margate Sands into a majestic boutique hotel and restaurant.

Eighteen months on and Sands has proved to be an overwhelming success.

With the ever increasing popularity of the venue as a wedding reception venue, offering full wedding packages was only a matter of time. As a result, in recent months the Hotel, now with a full wedding license, has opened a new function room and a series of fantastic, bespoke wedding packages.

The graceful boutique hotel offers a luxurious, stylish and contemporary venue to host weddings on one of the UK’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. The hotel’s design nods both to its Victorian heritage and its surroundings, with serene shades of pastel blue, stone and sand throughout creating a tranquil sanctuary overflowing with indulgent touches. No matter what time of year you would like to

hold your wedding, the Sands Hotel offers a chic venue that combines the wild beauty of the seaside with refined, modern elegance and Victorian charm.

The hotel is perfect for small intimate weddings, hosted in the function room or Bay restaurant with views looking out onto the pristine blue flag beaches of Margate. Sands also boasts a wonderful private roof terrace where guests can sip Champagne with far reaching views across the sea.

Sands can accommodate up to seventy seated guests or up to two hundred for hot and cold buffet or bowl food, standing and seated. The hotel has twenty individually designed en-suite bedrooms that can be hired out to the bridal party and their guests at competitive prices or included in the exclusive wedding package on offer.

Sands can also cater for larger weddings, and are happy to offer exclusive use of the hotel if desired.

Sands has both the expertise and a beautiful venue to make any wedding day a worry-free, memorable and a thoroughly romantic experience. At the start of the planning process, couples will be appointed with their own Wedding Coordinator, who will help with the organisation of the big day at the Sands.

Sands are holding a Wedding Open Day on Saturday 28th February from 10am – 3.30pm, and will be offering £500 off of any wedding package if booked within a month of the open day!

For more information visit www.sandshotelmargate.co.uk or call 01843 228228

85

B

espoke Weddings are our speciality . . .

Enjoy both your ceremony and reception at this stunning Country House Hotel set within a 3000 acre estate with perfectly manicured lawns and beautiful grounds in the heart of the Kent countryside.

KENTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LEADING COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL & SPA

AA

Quality Exhibitors

Free Admission

Fashion Shows

Free & Ample Parking

[weddings [title ]

MARRIAGE AT THE MANOR

EASTWELL MANOR, BOUGHTON LEES

Eastwell Manor is a family-owned, four Red Star Country House Hotel and Spa with a romantic, tree-lined drive leading to the gothic, stone Manor House complete with crenulations, turrets and mullioned windows: the perfect venue for your bespoke Wedding Ceremony and Reception at any time of the year.

There are four special areas licensed for weddings and civil ceremonies: three beautiful oak-panelled rooms in the historic Manor House which are licensed for ceremonies of up to 135 guests and an Italian Walled Maids Garden, filled with an abundance of historic charm, stunning seasonal flower displays and a bridge over the lily pond leading to the elegant gazebo which is licensed for ceremonies of up to 150 guests.

If you are planning a larger wedding the manicured lawns with views of the

Manor House and the surrounding countryside are perfect for marquee weddings.

There are 62 individually-designed bedrooms and suites, some with four poster beds and glorious views, others in 1, 2 or 3 bedroom cottages built in the converted stables and known as “Eastwell Mews."

You can chose from delicious menus devised by our Executive Head Chef, Byron Hayter, or create your own menu.Your wedding breakfast will be

catered for by the same chefs who cook for the celebrated, two-rosette Manor Restaurant (recently awarded 5th place in The Times “20 Most Romantic Restaurants in Britain”).

Eastwell Manor is utterly gorgeous: with its period charm, award winning cuisine, regal surroundings, warming log fires and staff who go out of their way it is the venue of choice for those seeking a wedding of distinction. The dedicated wedding planners will guide you from start to finish so you can relax and enjoy your happy day.

87

[weddings ]

The Burlington Hotel

FOLKESTONE

The Burlington Hotel is a nineteenth century Victorian-Edwardian 3 star hotel that has been tastefully modernised whilst retaining its old world charm and elegance, set in tranquil surroundings overlooking the famous Leas Promenade and the English Channel.

The Premier Suite can accommodate up to 140 guests for a wedding breakfast and 200 for an evening reception whilst smaller rooms are also available for more intimate events. The hotel also holds a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Marriages and Civil Partnership Licenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; so that you can host your entire event with us. The beautifully decorated Radnor Suite can accommodate up to 120 guests for your ceremony.

There are many advantages to choosing a hotel over a private hall or a barn for your special day. The hotel can act as a 'one stop shop' for most of your needs and can also save you money. Most other venues don't have on-site accommodation for you

and your guests, have expensive venue hire charges and also outsource their catering requirements at premium rates so that you have to deal with several suppliers for your event.

The Burlington Hotel offers free accommodation for the bride and groom, discounted accommodation rates for your guests so that they can relax and enjoy the night without worrying about the costs of getting home and also free venue hire*.

Whilst organising a wedding can be a daunting task, the Burlington's experienced wedding coordinator will be on hand to assist you with every aspect of planning your big day.

Whether you choose a traditional celebration or something more contemporary, they will be there to advise and guide where necessary and to ensure that your day is truly special.

Abbots Barton Hotel

CANTERBURY

Cathedral Suite which seats up to 120 people for a wedding breakfast and 180 for an evening reception. The Cathedral suite has views and direct access to the gardens which provides an idyllic setting for marquees holding up to 250 guests.

The Abbots Barton was built in 1830 as a private house and became a hotel in 1927 expanding to its present size. The hotel has 53 beautifully furnished en suite bedrooms, the Fountain Restaurant which seats up to 70 diners, 4 private function rooms suitable for smaller and more intimate weddings and the 88

Wedding couples can choose from a selection of seasonal and modern British menu options which have been thoughtfully created using ethically sourced ingredients from local farms and suppliers where possible complimented by some comprehensive drink packages.

Alternatively, our chef and his brigade can offer and quote for bespoke, tailor made menus to suit.

Unlike other venues such as private halls and barns, the Abbots Barton can cater

for the majority of your requirements without having to outsource these to the likes of external food caterers and accommodation providers at a premium cost to you and your guests. Being a 'one stop shop' for your event also means that our experienced wedding coordinator can guide you where necessary and will liaise directly with each department relieving you of the stress that comes from having to organise everything yourself with several different suppliers. Furthermore, if your pre-ordered food and drinks package reaches just ÂŁ4,500, the venue hire will be thrown in free of charge which could result in further savings in comparison to other venues without compromising on quality.

[weddings ]

ST EDMUND'S CANTERBURY The beautiful, historic setting of St Edmund’s overlooks the city and cathedral of Canterbury, giving you and your guests a stunning panoramic view from St Thomas Hill.

Rental and catering packages available to suit all budgets – Please contact our lettings department at: Tel: 012274756289 Email: gcd@stedmunds.org.uk

Weddings at the Channel Suite

Founded in 1858 by Dr Samuel Warnford, its’ magnificent 19th century historic buildings are set amongst acres of tranquil mature gardens and parkland, and offer an ideal location for your wedding day.

Approved for civil marriages, civil partnerships and renewal of vows for up to 120 guests, St Edmund’s is the quintessential English venue that promises to make your occasion truly memorable.

Step inside and you’ll discover the Drawing room and Terrace with its’ scenic views, creating an intimate atmosphere for your ceremony, and the traditional oak-panelled Dining Hall, a perfect space for your wedding reception. Outside, the elegant limestone-arched colonnade provides a wonderful location for an outdoor ceremony, followed by a marquee reception on our lawns.

Whatever your needs, whether small and intimate affairs, or larger receptions, let the magnificent venue of St Edmund’s be the starting point for your special day.

FOLKESTONE

With stunning views across the Channel, the Channel Suite at the Leas Cliff Hall is a wonderful wedding venue.

Everything is here to suit your needs, from elegant air-conditioned rooms to professional catering staff and an experienced weddings team to ensure every last detail of your day is perfect.

Whether you’re planning a large, lavish wedding, a smaller intimate day or a reception party to remember, we can make it special.

call 01303 228606 email lchfunctions@leasclifhall.co.uk www.leascliffhall.co.uk 89

[weddings ]

The Bridal Beauty Bag Checklist

BY AMY McMANUS

You know the age-old rule: prepare for the worst, hope for the best. If you go outside with an umbrella it will almost certainly stay dry, but if you forget that umbrella, the heavens will open. Everyone hopes that their wedding day will go perfectly and for some it will. For this to happen preparation is key, to ensure that any potential issue is quickly rectified.

The Bridal Beauty bag is a crisis preventer and allround safety blanket to ensure there are never any causes for alarm. The bag is usually carried or kept close to the Maid of Honour, Mother of the Bride or in my case, my bridesmaid’s other half (as the bag was too large and packed full!).

Some items are more essential than others and you will be able to add extra bits and bobs depending on the particulars of your wedding day. Eg: suncream may be required for fairer skin during an outdoor summer wedding. Be prepared and your special day will be plain sailing.

90

What is in the bag? ... I thought you would never ask!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • •

Tissues Lipstick / gloss Lipbalm Mints Hand Sanitizer Tampons / Pads Mini Sewing Kit (with cotton to match main bridal outfits) Face Wipes – I love the handy ‘Yes to’ travel size wipes (especially in cucumber and carrot!) £1.99 for a pack of 10 from Boots.

Brush / Comb Plasters Hairbands and Bobby Pins Nail File Mirror Make-Up Corrector Up Try Lord & Berry Ultimate Touch Make Up Corrector Eraser Pencil. It helps remove make-up smudges and marks without the need for wiping or cleanser. £8 from www.lookfantastic.com Tweezers Body Spray Spare Underwear Extra Earring Backs Mirror Flat Shoes / Flip Flops Dryer sheets for static hair Lint roller Paracetamol Water bottle Tweezers

[weddings [title ] ]

LET THEM EAT (WEDDING)

CAKE!

Amy McManus talks wedding cakes with our featured bakers Fairy Dust Bakery.

When you think of weddings what comes into your mind? For many people it will be the bride’s gown or the happy couple together. For me it’s the cake every time! The wedding cake is the centre piece of your venue, it will be photographed and eaten by every single one of your guests and must therefore make an impression.Your cake will be remembered for being either great, mediocre or dare I say...bad! There are many bakers out there who ‘think they can,’ set-up shop with no training or experience and tend to charge half the price. Be warned wedding planners; when it comes to wedding cakes, there are no shortcuts or cheap alternatives.

If you want an amazing crowd stunner from a professional baker with years of experience, you have to be prepared to spend a little more.The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of a cheap price has faded.

Occasionally, a baker will come along who seems too good to be true; someone with years of experience, top recommendations and extremely reasonable prices. In these cases you hold on to these people with all your might and you never lose contact! They are there for every birthday, wedding, anniversary and whatever other occasion that requires great cake (Happy Tuesdays?)

It is therefore with great pleasure I

present to you one such baker, Melissa at Fairy Dust Bakery, Canterbury.

Melissa founded Fairy Dust Bakery in February 2010 and is just about to celebrate going into her fifth year in business! “I started the business as a way of working more flexibly with a young family and never dreamed it would take off in the way it did. I thought I’d probably make a cake a month and in fact, my hours now are full-time and we are often fully booked for weeks at a time.”

offering 10% off the first 10 wedding orders to quote East Kent Lifestyle Magazine. So get in there quickly!

Website: www.fairydustbakery.co.uk Email: melissa@fairydustbakery.co.uk 10% discount for the first 10 wedding cake bookings when quoting East Kent Lifestyle Magazine.

When you see and taste her creations, you understand why she is so successful.

It just shows you how good news spreads fast. Melissa has worked with almost every wedding venue in Kent and takes great care over every cake she makes.

Hours of hard work go into every single one of her pieces.This is the point where a cake stops being a cake and becomes a work of art.

“To see it all come together, fully assembled and in a beautiful venue is one of the best feelings. Brides will often write to say thank you afterwards and so knowing you have got it ‘just right’ for their special day makes the job very rewarding.”

So, if you want a perfect cake that every one of your guests will remember (and judge all other cakes by) Melissa will be 91

[weddings ]

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

BY REBECCA DOUGLAS

When couples book me, I always ask them how they want to feel on their wedding day and one of the top responses is that they want their day to feel relaxed, informal and focused on having a good time with their loved ones.

There are so many ways to achieve this relaxed feeling and here are a few ideas to mull over to help add to the occasion.

Unplugged?

In this digital age, nearly every guest will arrive with a camera. In the main, guests taking photos are all part of the fun but there are a few moments where I think it's really lovely if everyone is connected in person rather than seeing moments through screens of smart phones and cameras.

My heart sinks when I am waiting to see a couple come up the aisle and guests step and lean into the aisle with iPads, iPhones and cameras. It such a beautiful moment as the couple will have just been announced as newlyweds and the photo cementing that moment is cluttered with modern technology rather than clapping, high fives, fist pumps and general cheer.

More and more couples are deciding to ‘unplug’ their ceremony, meaning that as you take your vows there won’t be

92

How to make your wedding day photography feel relaxed.

a barrage of flashing, clicks and camera focusing dots detracting from such a truly special moment in your day.

Great group shots

Group shots are always a talking point when it comes to planning your photography. So many people feel they take too long and don’t want to be stood around in line ups for their whole drinks reception.To prevent this, I think it is important to plan what group shots you’d like fairly early in your planning process.That way, you’re committing time in your timeline and they are part of the vision of your day meaning you’ll be more relaxed getting those photos of your treasured ones.

So they feel relaxed it is good to allow 3-4 minutes a shot, giving time to find the folk, chat and giggle with them while the shots are being arranged and that way deciding how much time you want to allocate to them.

Some of my couples have thought about creating a quirky backdrop for their group shots and this just makes it really feel like an integral part of the day and guests love to see something a little different.

Portraits that let you press pause

Your portraits together don’t have to feel like you’ve disappeared from your wedding for hours.There are so many moments through the day and I love to see portrait time as a way of pressing pause and having some time together.

With light having such a beautiful impact on scenery at different times of the day it is always nice to break up your portraits through the day to capture this in your story. Time after dinner before the dancing starts to walk the family dog or have giggles with your children in the golden long grass mean couples can grab some time to create some really unique images.

Rebecca Douglas is a wedding photographer based in Kent who creates romantic, natural, relaxed images putting her couples at the heart of her approach.

Contact info: Suite 1, 1 Elwick Road, Ashford, TN23 1PD 01233 643835 / 07870 537455

www.rebeccadouglas.co.uk @BxDouglas rebeccadouglasphotography bxdouglas

WHY VISIT A WEDDING FAIR? Tina Green from The Wedding Experience gives us the lowdown.

[weddings ]

A series of Wedding Shows in Kent

in partnership with

Open 10.30am – 3.30pm unless otherwise stated

Inspiring Wedding Exhibitions where you can find all you need to make your Wedding Day truly special

Newly engaged?

Then this is the ideal start to finding your perfect venue – at every Wedding Experience you can meet with Registrars from KCC who have a wealth of knowledge about Kent wedding venues and ceremony arrangements.

Wedding Dresses Galore

There’s a vast bridalwear display to browse from a selection of top Kent bridal shops so you can book your in-store appointment with stockists of your favourite designer gowns. Some of the shows provide an opportunity try and buy on the day in the spacious changing rooms.

Inspiration

The shows feature table settings, candy tables and cake and flower displays to give you lots of ideas for your big day.

You can also try out a whole host of wedding cars.

Discover the latest trends

Browse at leisure and discover the latest trends, taste the cake, touch the invitations, smell the flowers, hear the music.This is your chance to meet with specialists who really care about making your wedding day special and helping you to style it your way and to your budget.

Wedding shopping made easy

Combining a comprehensive range of wedding experts from photographers to beauticians, menswear to discos, magicians to rings, planning your perfect wedding day in Kent has never been easier.

FREE

EN

With big names from the High Street as well as independent specialists, you’ll find the pick of Kent’s wedding suppliers who are familiar with Kentish venues and can work closely with you to bring together the wedding day of your dreams.

TR Y

Kent’s best suppliers

Visit The Wedding Experience at

St George’s Centre, Chatham Maritime Sunday 22nd February

Ashford International Hotel, Ashford Sunday 8th March

Hadlow Manor Hotel, Hadlow Sunday 22nd March

Inn on the Lake, Shorne, Gravesend Sunday 29th March

The Kent Showground Detling, Maidstone ME14 3JF Sunday 26th April 10.30am – 4.00pm

Admission is free

So bring along your families, friends and bridal party for a day of planning which you’ll find to be very helpful and lots of fun too.

Pre-register at

www.wedding-experience.co.uk

01795 844449 93

THE SECRET GARDEN

[weddings ]

The Secret Garden is a captivating and elegant venue and is the perfect place to hold a wedding ceremony LE andHATCH, reception.

Inside and out the Secret Garden is one of Kentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most romantic settings, MERSHAM NR ASHFORD. situated on the beautiful Mersham Le Hatch Estate, offering a peaceful rural location.

The Secret Garden offers three separate areas for weddings; The main Coach House is licensed to hold ceremonies and can seat 70 guests for a 3 course meal with an additional 50 guests in the evening. The Coach House offers a warm, romantic setting, with large double doors that open onto the south facing undercover terrace that overlooks the beautiful walled Victorian gardens.

Secondly, the main lawn accommodates a small marquee that holds up to 30 guests, extensions are added for larger

guest numbers to a maximum of 120 for a sit down meal and 170 for the evening reception. The marquee is very beautiful and has a cream and gold Moroccan style lining.

Hog Roast & Seasonal Salads, Luxury Picnics, Posh BBQ and A la carte meals.

A la carte meals are Individual selected for each guest from the menus by the bride and groom.

Finally, The Glass House is a wonderful unique room offering the best of outside-in and is licensed for ceremonies and seating to 50 guests for a ceremony.

For a sit down meal it can seat up to 26 guests.

All food is served on vintage china, offering a fantastic English garden setting for your special day. Fruit Boxes, Lanterns, Bunting, are all available for use.

All wedding food is made from scratch in the Secret Garden kitchens. Menu ideas include; Champagne High Tea,

Contact The Secret Garden Wedding Planner on 01233 501586 or email events@secretgardenkent.co.uk for further details and pricing.

The perfect wedding...

The Secret Garden can be found hidden away in a romantic cobbled courtyard surrounded by mature trees and beautiful walled Victorian gardens - the perfect venue for your perfect day.

We can take care of every aspect of your wedding, from the ceremony to your dream menu.

The Coach House can accommodate up to 70 guests for a Wedding Breakfast and a further 50 guests in the evening. The Coach House has large double doors that open on to the south-facing covered terrace that has views over the walled gardens. From April to October our marquee can seat up to 30 and is easily extended to cater for 100 guests for a wedding breakfast and a further 50 guests in the evening. For more intimate gatherings, our new Victorian Glass House with its own private gardens is perfect for 26-30 guests.

For more information, please visit www.secretgardenkent.co.uk

94

The Secret Garden Hythe Road (A20), Mersham le Hatch Nr Ashford, Kent TN25 6NH 01233 501586 events@secretgardenkent.co.uk www.secretgardenkent.co.uk

[weddings ]

HOT

HONEYMOON HOTELS- USA EDITION

Couples know that finding the perfect his and hers hotel can be a challenge at the best of times, and when it comes to your honeymoon you don’t want to take any chances seeking out that special somewhere.

Each of these iconic American destinations has been hand-picked to give budding brides and geared-up grooms the ultimate honeymoon hotel inspiration, Stateside-style.

RUN OFF TO RENO, NEVADA THE HOT HONEYMOON HOTEL: THE PEPPERMILL RESORT, SPA & CASINO

When it comes to the perfect location for a hen do, stag party, wedding and honeymoon all rolled into one, Reno, Nevada tops our ‘love-it’ list.

The same hassle-free marriage laws that have made Las Vegas synonymous with love, weddings and all round good times apply throughout the State of Nevada, meaning the Big Little City of Reno is similarly synonymous with luxurious wedding venues and romantic resorts, but on a more intimate scale.

The Peppermill Resort has the decadent atmosphere of a classic casino, and Reno itself is packed with glittering gaming options but away from the bright lights there’s plenty of alternative ideas for honeymooners seeking cool culture in the city - from the world’s tallest rock climbing wall to the exceptional exhibitions at the Nevada Museum of Art. The bonus here is that the mountains of the Sierra Nevada and the shores of Lake Tahoe are under an hour away, so whether it’s a winter wedding with a romantic

twist on après ski or a summer honeymoon on the boats and beaches of a legendary lake you’re after, the area makes a great twin centre destination.

When it comes to love, money should be no object, but if yourself and your partner are longing for a lavish ceremony but would prefer without wanting your wedding march not to be marred by bureaucracy and a big bill, the value offered in Reno, given a helping hand by the favourable exchange rate for us Brits, is almost worth falling in love for.

Under £40 buys you a marriage license round the clock here and but if you’d rather spend your savings on your beloved and your life together rather than see it all go on the wedding day itself, The Peppermill’s packages start at under £350 for up to 60 guests.

Even the full service ‘Unforgettable Ceremony Package’ which includes everything you could wish for on your big day from bouquets, spa treatments, dining and videography to 3 nights’ accommodation in Spa Suites for the bridge and groom comes in at under £2000, so wedding-wise this big city really does present you with a little bill. www.VisitRenoTaho.com | www.PeppermillReno.com 95

[weddings ]

DISCOVER THE STREETS OF SAN FRANCISCO & VISIT VINTAGE WINE COUNTRY

KICK OFF A LIFELONG ADVENTURE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

SAVOUR SAUSALITO, CALIFORNIA – THE HOT HONEYMOON HOTEL: THE INN ABOVE TIDE

ROCK YOUR HONEYMOON MORE IN MOAB, UTAH – HOT HONEYMOON HOTEL: RED CLIFFS LODGE

It’s almost impossible to imagine a more mesmerising and memorable view to wake up to on your first days of wedded bliss than the panoramic vista from the Skyline Suite of Sausalito’s quietly sophisticated Inn Above Tide.

Who says honeymoons have to be all about lazing on beaches? When you’ve embarked on the ultimate adventure of marriage you’ll want to start sharing unforgettable experiences together right away – and what could be more thrilling than a honeymoon packed with outdoor pursuits surrounded by Moab’s legendary rock landscapes.

The beauty of the Bay Area is silently strung out in front of you, from downtown San Francisco’s skyscrapers via the Bay Bridge and the legendary island of Alcatraz to Berkeley and Oakland, the endless view bookended by Belvedere at one edge and the Golden Gate, hidden by the hills, at the other.

This is the way to explore San Francisco as a newlywed; from your serene base in upmarket Sausalito village cycle across the bridge on the hotel’s complimentary bicycles, before venturing into nearby Sonoma wine country for tastings in the hills.

Return at sunset to watch over the water from your terrace before retiring inside for a toast in front of a roaring fireplace. www.sausalito.org | www.innabovetide.com

96

At Red Cliffs Lodge you’ll wake up to epic views of the Colorado River, surrounded by 2000 foot sheer red rock cliffs - stunning scenery which has the power to pull even the most loved up of newlyweds out of bed.

Spend your days exploring the ultimate natural adventure playground - the geological marvels of the area are begging for you to climb on bikes, head off on a hike or on horseback and tackle the hard core challenges of activities like rafting, rappelling and zip lining that will literally have you falling into your partner’s arms, before returning to the hotel for complimentary on-site wine tasting. www.discovermoab.com | www.redcliffslodge.com www.moabutah.info (Dedicated wedding planning site)

[weddings ]

LOSE YOURSELVES IN THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS LANDSCAPES, WHILE GETTING LOST IN EACH OTHER

HOW BETTER TO HONEYMOON THAN IN THE CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS?

EXPERIENCE EPIC LOVE AT ARIZONA’S GRAND CANYON – THE HOT HONEYMOON HOTEL: THE AMARA RESORT AND SPA

TAKE A BITE OUT OF THE BIG APPLE AFTER YOUR BIG DAY – THE HOT HONEYMOON HOTEL: MYSUITES NEW YORK APARTMENTS

For those who’d love to combine a classic honeymoon experience complete with infinity pool, high class hotel and spa and luxurious romantic solitude with a visit to the USA’s ultimate bucket list destination, a stay in Sedona ticks all the boxes.

It’s never too late for a trip to Tiffany’s and any bride would jump at the chance of a honeymoon in iconic New York.

A two-hour drive from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, just one of six state parks which surround Sedona, the area is one of outstanding natural beauty famed for red rock landscapes and Native American sites, voted the most beautiful place in America.

Set in the heart of upmarket Sedona village, perfect for an evening stroll hand-in-hand, The Amara Resort and Spa has a wedding wow factor from the moment you step into the vaulted lobby; this stylish and refined honeymoon hotel offers huge comfy and luxe suites with devastatingly romantic views of the Sedona scenery.

Start your married mornings on the right foot with the hotel’s complimentary yoga classes then reward yourselves with Huevos Rancheros before heading off on a completely unforgettable couples adventure to one of the seven natural wonders of the world – and talk about it all over tipples and nibbles back at base, which are on the house each evening in the Amara’s Southwest-styled bar. www.VisitSedona.com | www.amararesort.com

Take your pick from one of MySuites honeymoon havens - a range of contemporary apartments nestled in iconic pre-war buildings in trendy Manhattan neighbourhoods from Greenwich and the West Village to Chelsea and Nolita.

The spot-on urban locations are perfect to combine your honeymoon with a quintessential NYC experience – from the city’s world-class shopping, dining and entertainment to all the local hotspots, as recommended by the concierge.

All the services of a boutique hotel including optional ensuite chef, room service and grocery delivery are available but with the privacy that comes with your own apartment – and a full kitchen if you’d rather stay in together and cook an intimate dinner for two.

Local artists and designers have created unique and original interiors, crafting a truly authentic NYC environment from vintage and high end pieces, resulting in a romantic and original honeymoon in the heart of one of the world’s most famous cities. www.iloveny.com | www.mysuites.net 97

[weddings ]

WEDDING MAKE-UP FOR ALL WEATHER WORDS BY AMY MCMANUS, MAKE-UP BY CHLOE PRITCHARD

When it is time for a bride to get ready for her wedding day, flawless make-up is the cherry on top of a picture perfect cake. Your hair has been sculpted with precision, the dress you tirelessly dieted for feels like a dream and your nails have never looked better.

A good quality make-up artist is not always expensive and once you see those dazzling photographs you’ll be glad you said no to Aunty Betty and got a professional in to do the job.

For those of you who want to do your own; you are getting married and you will never do this again in your life (hopefully!) When the excitement and chaos of the morning before the wedding finally arrives, you will be glad that you can just sit down and have your make-up done perfectly by a trained specialist; rather than rushing the job yourself in front of a shared mirror.

So, without further ado may I please present my featured make-up artist Chloe Pritchard. As a university fashion student, Chloe loved watching the make-up artists transform the models on shoots. “I was always so intrigued by the abundance of products. Putting me in a department store beauty hall is like letting a child loose in a sweet shop.”

After continuing to study Make-Up Artistry at college Chloe has worked for some of the largest names in the business, including MAC and Laura Mercier, but weddings have always been her speciality. “Wedding make-up has always been my favourite. I love learning about my client and helping her create the perfect look for her day.

50% off all wedding make-up trials when quoting East Kent Lifestyle Magazine*

*Subject to availability

98

When my brides walk down the aisle, they feel beautiful and confident. This gives me so much job satisfaction.”

Now, as you clever lot may have guessed from the photographs, the outside looks had to be shot in the rain; first a drizzle, then spitting, then pouring and then back to drizzle. The ground was soaked and my beautiful Pronovias bridal gown was hoisted up around my knees above a very warm pair of Uggs. This makeup not only survived the rainy morning shoot, but an afternoon of cooking and evening dinner party. It was trialled to the limit and survived my tough tests long into the night, with only a few lip-gloss reapplications. This is what you pay for when you hire a make-up artist. Not everyone is married on a day with perfect sunshine, a light breeze and clear skies. If it’s too hot, too cold, windy, rainy or even snowing you will be glad that you don’t have to worry.

Your make-up needs to stand up to the elements and stay looking fabulous from the point of application all the way through to bedtime.

So if you are looking for a talented make-up artist whose expertise will keep you beautiful in any weather; book yourself in for a trial.

CanterburyWedding Your

Call now and book a free show around and a bespoke quotation with no commitments PHOTO BY WWW.SAMANTHAJONESPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

* Subject to terms & conditions

36 NEW DOVER ROAD ♦ CANTERBURY ♦ CT1 3DU ♦ 01227 760341 ♦ WWW.ABBOTSBARTONHOTEL.COM

FolkestoneWedding Your

Call now and book your free show around with a bespoke non-committal quotation PHOTO BY WWW.TIMSTUBBINGSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

* Subject to terms & conditions

3-5 EARLS AVENUE ♦ FOLKESTONE ♦ CT20 2HR ♦ 01303 255301 ♦ WWW.THEBURLINGTONHOTEL.COM

PHOTO BY WWW.DAVIDFENWICK.CO.UK

99

When Max proposed, I was so excited planning my dress and the flowers - all except the photographs.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

I always hated having my photo taken and tried to smile covering my teeth.

My friend told me to go to Riccarda, and together we planned my orthodontic treatment into my wedding budget.

On the day I just couldn't stop smiling!

your smile by

Riccarda Kane

The Birchington Orthodontic Practice www.birchingtonortho.co.uk GDC Registration Number: 64202

7 Surrey Gardens, Birchington, Kent, CT7 9SA Telephone 01843 844600