Close Up June 2023

Summer is finally here, and we couldn't be more excited to dive into the June edition! Grab your favourite iced beverage, find a cosy spot in the shade, and get ready to immerse yourself in the wonderful world of Close Up. First off, let's talk about our stunning cover star, the talented Halle Bailey. With her mesmerising voice and undeniable charisma, Halle has taken the entertainment industry by storm. Prepare to be inspired by this remarkable woman who is making waves in the industry.

For all the lovebirds out there, our wedding supplement is here to make your special day even more extraordinary. From wedding guest style to bridal couture, we've put together an inspirational supplement that will help you plan your dream wedding. Whether you're going for a traditional ceremony or thinking outside the box, our wedding supplement has something for everyone.

Education is a lifelong journey, and this month, we delve into the world of learning. Highlight the topic of autism with our Early Years Leader Anna, and check out the exciting days out we’ve selected for some half term fun. And what better time to celebrate the joys of summer? From long sunny days to fun-filled adventures, the spirit of summer is infectious. In this edition, we share the best places to visit, mouthwatering recipes to try, and tips for making the most of this vibrant season.

So whether you're lounging on a sandy beach or exploring the city, Close Up has you covered with all the essentials for a fantastic summer.

Southgate, Palmers

Private Consultation

Treatment from £3,000

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure we offer at our clinic to reduce excess sagging, wrinkles, and baggy skin which develops on the lower and upper eyes. This cosmetic treatment is very common and removes fat and wrinkles for a healthy, natural and refreshed appearance.

Excellent Results

Excellent results after treatment with our oculoplastic surgeons.

Ptosis is identified as a condition that causes the upper eyelid to droop, sometimes blocking and restricting vision. This is commonly caused by nerve damage in the eye, which can affect the eye’s muscle strength.

Over 10,000+ procedures

Our eyelid surgeons have performed and treated patients from all over the UK.

Treatment from £3,500

Eyebrow lifts are a great cosmetic procedure to address droopy or heavy eyebrows. Our eyelid surgeon will restore a natural, beautiful, and symmetrical appearance to your face with this cosmetic procedure.

Treatment from £350

Treatment from £550 remove cysts, chalazions, and styes. A stress-free procedure to prevent discomfort and prolonged irritation of your condition. Our oculoplastic surgeon will be able to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of the cyst, chalazion, or stye.

5-star Patient Feedack

99.9% excellent patient satisfaction from all cosemtic eyelid treatments. An easy, stress-free treatment experience for our patients.

WISHlist

Close Up’s monthly guide to what you should be wishing for…

BEACH BABE

Get beach and poolside ready with this stylish cut out swimsuit that will be sure to turn heads!

High Leg Cut-Out Swimsuit, £27.99 www.2.hm.com

TURN IT UP

Never skip the gym with the Beats Fit Pro. Engineered to deliver powerful, balanced sound that stays with you through your daily activities.

Beats Fit Pro –True Wireless Earbuds, £219.99 www.apple.com

MIST MAGIC

Punctuating sweet, fruity notes of plum and crème de cassis with warming woods, Sol de Janeiro’s Cheirosa ‘40 Hair & Body Fragrance Mist captures a sense of tropical heat that brings the beach to your beauty rituals...

Sol De Janeiro Cheirosa Perfume Mist, £22 www.boots.com

HEAVEN SCENT

Fresh, powdery, soft and familiar – this gorgeous bottle of heaven makes for the perfect everyday scent.

Glossier You Eau De Parfum, £49 www.uk.glossier.com

SANDAL STORY

What’s a holiday without a pair of Birkenstocks! Modern and comfortable, these sandals are the ultimate vacation staple!

Arizona Essentials, £45 www.birkenstock.com

COOL GIRL ERA

Get ahead of the fashion game with these stylish frames sending you into your runway era.

Sunglasses 09 Light Orange, £120 www.chimi-online.com

BALMY BEAUTY

An ultra-nourishing formula that encourages soft, luscious lips. Arriving in a mouth-watering grapefruit flavour, the balm plumps the lips with intense moisture.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask Grapefruit, £19 www.lookfantastic.com

IN ORDER

Say goodbye to clutter and hello to organisation! This makeup bag is the perfect solution for those on the go! The box bag opens out into a tray, avoiding the need to rummage for your favourite products.

The Flat Lay Co. Jelly Box Bag, £19.99 www.lookfantastic.com

FLIRTY FROCK

Dress to impress with this super sweet summer dress. It is the perfect staple to take you from beach babe ready, to dinner with a view.

Short Printed Dress, £32.99 www.zara.com

DIVE INTO HALLE BAILEY’S WORLD

Halle Bailey is about to become a household name. Thanks to a star turn as Ariel in the upcoming live-action Disney film The Little Mermaid, Bailey’s celebrity status will be firmly cemented by the end of the year.

“THE VERSION OF ARIEL IN MY HEAD WAS THE ONE we all know and love: PALE SKIN AND BRIGHT RED HAIR. She didn’t look like me”

When Halle Bailey received the call to audition for Disney’s live-action retelling of The Little Mermaid four years ago, she didn’t assume it would be for the lead. Despite the fact the singer-actor had been writing music since she was eight years old, opened for Beyoncé on the European leg of her Formation Tour at 16 and received five Grammy nominations before reaching the age of 21, Bailey couldn’t picture herself playing Ariel.

“The version of Ariel in my head was the one we all know and love: pale skin and bright red hair. She didn’t look like me,”

Bailey shared how she reacted when she first learned she was going to be stepping into the fin shoes. “My first reaction was just sobbing honestly. I was just crying. I think we had celebrated my sister’s birthday the day before. So, we had rented an Airbnb, we were coming home, unloading everything, I was in work mode. And then I got this call from Rob.” She didn’t answer right away though, but not because she didn’t want the part.

“I don’t answer unknown numbers, so I just saw it, and I’m like whatever. Not gonna answer it.” Relatable right? Luckily someone else told her she should answer it. “Then my baby brother comes running to me like, “Answer your phone, answer your phone.” [laughs] So I answered it, and then Rob was like, “Hello. I’m looking for Ariel.” I was like, oh my gosh, and was just crying for the whole day.”

However, her casting led to backlash – with some critics unhappy that Halle Bailey, a Black woman, was cast as Ariel. Bailey responded, saying that she remained focused on the incredible role and the opportunity to play a classic Disney princess. “We’ve always learned to just keep our heads up no matter the situation,” she said at the time. “No matter what anybody has to say about you… just keep pushing.” Last September, when the studio released The Little Mermaid’s teaser trailer, videos of some Black and brown children – reacting to the reveal of Ariel 2.0 went viral. “She’s like me!” was the shared sentiment among the girls and boys who not only saw themselves in Bailey’s modern mermaid, with her shimmering brown skin and flowing red locks, but who also felt seen by the larger world around them.

“Even just thinking about it makes me emotional,” Bailey says, “Because I still feel like that inside. I feel like that five-year-old. And it made me so filled with love that they know they’re beautiful and that they can be princesses too.” “It’s that piece I didn’t have. It’s so healing to see these other babies get that and be able to know that when they get older this will just be normal, you know?”

Best known until now as one half of the pop R&B duo Chloe x Halle – with her older sister, Chlöe, 24 – Bailey caught the eye of The Little Mermaid director Rob Marshall after she and Chlöe performed Donny Hathaway and Roberta Flack’s duet “Where Is The Love” at the 2019 Grammys. “[Producer] John DeLuca and I were watching, and I said, ‘John, who is that? She looks like an angel,’” Marshall recalls. The turned director, whose 2002 feature debut, Chicago, garnered six Academy Awards, is widely credited for reviving moviegoer interest in seeing Broadway on the big screen. “I mean, Halle’s so beautiful, but she also has an otherworldly sensibility. This was so important for a character that’s a mermaid and a teenage girl, who has to have this combination of strength, passion and courage, as well as a kind of naivety and innocence.” For The Little Mermaid, director

“IT MADE ME so filled with love THAT THEY KNOW THEY’RE BEAUTIFUL AND THAT they can be princesses too.”

Rob Marshall was looking for a star that was both dynamic on screen and could hold their own with the classic Disney songs that are so known and loved from the film. He said in a statement, “After an extensive search, it was abundantly clear that Halle possesses that rare combination of spirit, heart, youth, innocence, and substance—plus a glorious singing voice—all intrinsic qualities necessary to play this iconic role.”

Halle Bailey is now 22, but her career began decades ago. When she was just three years old, the actress had minor roles in films like Last Holiday. But music was the star’s key focus. She grew up in a musical family and began a YouTube channel with sister Chloe when she was 11 and her sister was 13. Coining themselves ‘Chloe x Halle’, their first video was a cover of Beyoncé’s ‘The Best Thing I Never Had’. They quickly went viral and appeared on The Ellen Show in April 2012, before winning the fifth season of The Next Big Thing on Radio Disney that December.

While Chloe x Halle was already a hugely successful YouTube channel, their real rise to fame came when the Queen B herself, Beyoncé, noticed their cover of her song ‘Pretty Hurts’ and promptly signed the duo to her label, Parkwood Entertainment, in 2015. At the time, Chloe was 18 and Halle 16. From there, Chloe x Halle went from strength to strength. Their first EP, Sugar Symphony, was released in April 2016, and they even performed at the White House and South by Southwest Festival. They are widely considered to be Beyoncé’s prodigies, opening for the European leg of The Formation World Tour and now in a five-year contract with Parkwood.

Most recently, Chloe x Halle received multiple nominations at the 2020 Grammy Awards, including Best Progressive R&B Album, Best R&B Song and Best Traditional R&B Performance.

It’s been a year and a half since the project wrapped filming. During that time, Halle’s had a chance to meditate on the lessons learned from this transformative period of her life. But she’s also used the breather to have some fun. Her days have been filled with yoga, cooking, song writing, guitar practice and cuddles with her cat, Poseidon, named by her brother after Ariel’s grandfather. “I’m kind of an introverted person – not a party girl or anything. Since being home, I like having time to do the things that I want to do. It’s this feeling of freedom.”

All of Halle’s creative energy is being channelled into her first solo album, which she’s hoping to release after The Little Mermaid comes out. “The music I’m making now is happy and about love, but it’s also about vulnerability and how scared you can be when you know that somebody now has power over your heart.” During the writing process, she adds, “it’s been really cool to see this theme of anxious attachment, beauty in vulnerability, on paper.”

The project is still taking shape and she’s hesitant to spill more details. It’s not been long since Halle sat down with her mentor Beyoncé, (who, she admits, still occasionally leaves her feeling “starstruck”) for a super-exclusive listening party for her solo work. “She hadn’t heard anything with me on my own before, so it was a really big moment for me. She was just so proud, so complimentary. It’s a beautiful thing when a creative you look up to tells you that you’re doing a good job. It means the world.”

Fancy FEET

Step into summer in style with a brand new pair of sandals. From gladiator, sporty and raffia we have selected a bunch of styles to fit into any wardrobe!

020 8245 1192

020 8245 1192

cv@sjrlondon.com

cv@sjrlondon.com

www.sjrlondon.com

www.sjrlondon.com

020 8245 1192

cv@sjrlondon.com

www.sjrlondon.com

Hiring experienced candidates for roles in luxury fashion and retail.

Hiring experienced candidates for roles in luxury fashion and retail.

Temporary and Permanent positions available.

Hiring experienced candidates for roles in luxury fashion and retail.

From our high-end clientele to our varied and exciting roles in the fashion industry, there is a role suited to all levels of experience.

Temporary and Permanent positions available.

Temporary and Permanent positions available. From our high-end clientele to our varied and exciting roles in the fashion industry, there is a role suited to all levels of experience.

From our high-end clientele to our varied and exciting roles in the fashion industry, there is a role suited to all levels of experience.

If you are looking to further your career or are looking to expand your brand and product knowledge – we have roles and placements to suit all expectations.

If you are looking to further your career or are looking to expand your brand and product knowledge – we have roles and placements to suit all expectations.

If you are looking to further your career or are looking to expand your brand and product knowledge – we have roles and placements to suit all expectations.

Shore ESSENTIALS

Elevate your beach style to new heights, embrace your inner beach goddess and radiate confidence with our curated selection of chic beach accessories. Get ready to make a statement and create unforgettable memories this summer.

Elemental

Anthelios

Bucket Hat LOEWE £450

Fringe Raffia Bag Accessorize £70

Lamba Sarong Jacquemus Le Foulard £180

Domino Swimsuit Hunza G £160

Sandals Havaiana £37.99

Floral Underwire Bikini Swimsuit Cider £12.90

Sunglasses River Island POA

Pearl Bracelet Monica Vinader Keshi £195

Plaque Woven Leather-Trim Pouch YSL £395

Body Mist Rituals £19.50

Brazilian Bum Bum Cream Sol de Janeiro £16

SPF50+ Sun Cream La RochePosay £17.91

Huggies Astrid & Miyu £55

GLOW Getter

When choosing a highlighter, the world is your oyster. From effortless liquids, dewy balms and butter-like powders, there is a product for everyone to achieve glass like skin this summer.

Makeup

As a highly skilled and certified L2 beauty therapist with over three years of experience in the field, I have honed my expertise in nail treatments. My extensive range of services includes nail enhancements such as gel nails, biab, and gel extensions, as well as eye treatments like lash lifts, brow lamination, and lash & brow tinting.

As I continue to expand my range, I will soon be introducing lash extensions and other exciting treatments within the coming year.

Located in North London, I am also pleased to offer mobile appointments for added flexibility. It brings me huge joy to indulge my clients and help them pamper in self-care, whether they opt for a simple gel manicure or enjoy the allure of lifted lashes. My passion lies in cultivating my business and connecting with individuals who share the same enthusiasm.

To schedule an appointment, please feel free to reach out to me via Instagram or WhatsApp.

07729 557566 @bymiaeleni

Experience yoga, meditation, breath work and its transforming health benefits. A private group practice offered in a comfortable, warm fully equipped studio surrounded by a beautiful garden based in New Barnet.

We are all lifelong practitioners of yoga there is no beginner or intermediate only where you are when you start the journey.

Appointments arranged to suit your lifestyle & fitness. No class timetable.

One to one & small group discount offers apply

Violet Rose Jewellery was established in 2021 with the idea of being a mid-luxury jewellery brand.

All our jewellery is made with 925 sterling silver, also containing precious gemstones, including: Cubic Zirconia, a diamond that is nearly as sparkly as a real diamond & real natural crystals. We believe that jewellery should be so much more than just pretty.

The Inside Out Detox

Summer is a great time to detox! A lot of us are going to go wild with juicing and fasting but food-related cleanses and detoxes can be hard to keep up with. And actually, there might be better ways to really detox your life from the inside out…

MAKE A GOOD MORNING A GREAT MORNING!

As soon as you wake up, drink one or two large glasses of water containing fresh lemons. This will have an immediate cleansing effect on the liver and if you can, drink this around half an hour before eating your breakfast. Breakfast is still the most important meal of the day, even if you’re detoxing – the liver can’t function without nutrients so don’t skip this key meal.

DON’T DITCH THE PROTEIN!

There are a number of detox regimes that recommend fasting, or drinking only juices. Whilst these regimes are cleansing, they carry a major flaw; they do not contain protein. The body might also start to break down muscle protein, which eventually leads to slower metabolism.

CUT BACK ON TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL MEDIA

From our phones to our cars, from work to our house, technology is everywhere… And while this definitely comes with a lot of advantages, the over stimulation of lights, sounds, and instant gratification tends to disconnect us from ourselves. This summer, even if it’s just for a weekend, try to start a digital detox!

PRACTICE DETOX YOGA

If you’re a regular yoga practitioner, then don’t miss the opportunity to use your favourite activity to detox your body! Twisting yoga poses like Parivrtta Utkatasana or Marichyasana are great to remove toxins and get the digestive track moving.

CLEAR YOUR CLUTTER

Summer is a great time to clean your house. To make it a bit more easy, start with one room only and ask yourself if the items that are filling your space are bringing you joy, are necessary or are making life better for you and your loved ones… You’ll end feeling much lighter and having a lot more space in your home!

GREEN DETOX CELERY JUICE

Drinking celery juice is one of the hottest health trends for health and healing. The celery juice craze has been made popular by the Medical Medium (Anthony William) podcast and books. You’ll love tossing back this concoction first thing in the morning or after a workout for a rejuvenating sipper.

Ingredients:

• a head of celery (organic is always best for juicing)

• apple

• cucumber

• ginger knob

Happy juicing!

Zeynep is an advanced aesthetic practitioner. She has been in the beauty and aesthetic industry for over 19 years. She believes that small tweaks are the key to keep the skin looking young, without looking “fake”.

At Everyday Rocks we are passionate about providing you with the highest quality crystals and spiritual tools that inspire transformation and enhance your well-being. We offer a carefully curated selection of unique crystals, jewellery, meditation and affirmation candles that are ethically sourced and infused with positive energy. Discover the magic and power of Everyday Rocks as we guide you on your journey of self-discovery, healing and personal growth. Free crystal for every online purchase.

Introducing the ultimate in Lymphatic pressotherapy massage and bespoke IV Drips!

Combine two powerful therapies in just one treatment.

As one of London leading lymphatic clinics working in partnership with Zen Healthcare, we offer a unique range of Lymphatic pressotherapy massages and bespoke IV vitamin drips. Treatments are designed by our team of Doctors and administered by highly trained nurses.

There are many reasons why this treatment could be exactly what you need today!

Perhaps you are feeling sluggish, in need a of detox? Are you looking for a much needed energy boost? Help with your weight loss regime? Perhaps a liver cleanse, immunity boost or even a hangover detox?

What we offer

Our lymphatic massage device reduces water retention and helps the body to detoxify by removing toxins and waste products, boosting both blood circulation and lymphatic drainage in a time-efficient way. The body then naturally expels these toxins, and excess water. Incredibly relaxing, non-invasive, the gentle pressure powerfully stimulates the immune system to work optimally.

Whilst you lie back in your massage suit and relax, you will be given a bespoke IV vitamin drip, designed for your needs and combines multiple powerful ingredients to give you what you need the most!

The synergy of the two treatments working together will have you at your best in no time at all.

Packages start from £299

Treatments available at Zen Healthcare 53 Beauchamp place London

The ultimate in Lymphatic Pressotherapy & Bespoke IV Drips

As the warmer weather finally approaches it’s time to start thinking about those summer bodies! Or perhaps you are getting married or have a special event coming up that you want to look and feel great at?

Two powerful therapies in just one treatment

Bespoke IV vitamin drip

Ultimate boost of vitamins & minerals

Lymphatic drainage

Detoxification

Boost circulation

Aids weight loss & increases energy

Reduces water retention, puffiness & bloating

Improves the appearance of cellulite

Aids muscle recovery after exercise

Reduces post flight swelling

Supports the immune system

Gives a relaxing massage

Boosts pre & post surgery recovery & results

Helps with lymphedema & lipoedema

No downtime or aftercare

Uses principles & techniques of MLD massage

My Unexpected FERTILITY JOURNEY

I’m on day five of hormone stimulating injections and I’m not just feeling physically beat up, I am mentally, in the pits. I want to share my story with you in case you are planning for your future, I’m not sure what you want or if you needed a sign to just go on and do it!

A couple of years ago, I took the steps in the UK to investigate fertility options. I decided on egg freezing because my boyfriend was an idiot, I could see the beginning of the end already AND, I was in my thirties. I did the initial tests and positively, my results were great. I was advised at the time that I should consider moving forward with the treatment sooner rather than later as my egg reserves would not be getting any better and I wasn’t getting any younger. I knew the cost of the procedure and at the time, it didn’t take much to put me off the idea. I sat and spoke with my friend who convinced me that there was no point in doing it. The success rate was seriously low, the cost is radical compared to the results you could potentially get, and I should just leave it up to God.

I have always been a firm believer in God’s plan, but I also believe that YOU make choices in your life that will impact YOUR future. When opportunities present themselves, we decide whether we take them or not. In this case, I should’ve listened to my gut. Two years later, that same friend apologised for the shoddy advice and recommended I have it done ASAP. My first piece of advice, trust your gut. I’ve said it before, your gut is your future self-telling you to act.

Roll onto the current day, May 2023 and I’ve booked a trip to Cyprus with the girls for a little getaway! I decided that whilst on this trip, I would go and have my initial tests done to move the process forward. I had opted to do it in Cyprus because it’s more cost effective and the success rates in Cyprus have been proven time and time again. I didn’t even think of a worst-case scenario because my results were so good two years ago. What could’ve changed?

I’m sitting here writing this from the sofa in my last-minute Air BnB in Cyprus, feeling tired, uncomfortable and teary. In what was an unexpected turn of events, I am currently, freezing my eggs.

My appointment was booked on day three of my trip. The plan was to do the initial tests now and then come back to Cyprus in September to stay and complete the procedure. Plan A was already underway. My initial consultation was good. The doctor recommend we start with an ultrasound to check my uterus and ovaries for any abnormalities. To my dismay, the results were not great. The doctor turned to me and said my egg reserve looks low. My heart sank, after it broke. This was not the news I was expecting at all.

I asked the question “Is it low low, or normally low for my age?” “Just low.” He said. I couldn’t even find the energy to dig deeper into the conversation. I think we were a little lost in translation, but my Greek is pretty good, so I got the gist. “We would need to get the blood tests back in order to know for sure, but it looks low, and I would advise you to come back soon to complete the treatment.” I cried all the way home in the car.

I was due on my period, but it was a little delayed so wasn’t sure if I could have the tests done whilst I was here. Timing is everything. For me to know my AMH levels (Anti Mullerian Hormone, which is a strong indicator of egg reserve), I needed to be on the second or third day of my period. My period came just in time. I was due to fly back on Monday, but I was able to get the blood tests arranged for Monday morning.

I woke up that morning with my gut telling me to not to fly back home, to stay and go it alone. I had my bloods in the morning and then arranged for flight changes and new accommodation so I could stay on until the end of May. I think the rush of everything had taken my mind off the severity of what I was about to undergo. It was only after when it hit me like a ton of bricks. I knew this would be a rollercoaster. I was not prepared. I had to put on my Big Girl pants and do what I needed to. I cried for 14 hours the following day once everyone had flown back home. When I was asked why I was so emotional, I knew exactly why.

Firstly, this was a stark reminder that I wasted a lot of time on people who did not deserve it, especially the last 6 years. I was promised time and time again that we would be together, and we would have children, I believed the breadcrumbs and the lies even though I knew he wasn’t right for me. I should’ve left in the first year, instead, I prolonged the pain for another five and here I am. I’m not saying I am not happy with the person I have become because of that experience, in fact, I’m the best version of me I have ever been, but to sit here and almost be forced to do this procedure to safeguard me, hurts.

If I say it once, I will say it one thousand times over, don’t waste your time on people who you know are not right for you, who string you along until they move on and find their happy ending and leave you in Cyprus, in panic mode, injecting yourself every night and crying into another kebab. At least the kebabs are good!

Secondly, whilst I am in the process of preserving life, I am not speaking to the woman who has given me life. Irrespective of the trials and tribulations we both face in our mother daughter relationship, in that moment, all I wanted was a hug from my mum to reassure me I was doing the right thing. It just so happened that I called my mum that day because I couldn’t deal with this on my own and in another bizarre turn of events, she was also in Cyprus. I managed to spend two wonderful days with her where we hugged, we cried, we wiped the slate clean, and we decided to continue forward together. I am still fortunate to have my mum and it took this situation to make me realise that even if it may not be the closest bond, we are bonded, and I should take the time to have a relationship with her in whichever capacity that may be. When it got tough, she was the only person I wanted to see.

Thirdly, I had never felt so alone in my entire life. I’m in a foreign country, albeit my homeland, undergoing a gruelling regimen of hormone injections with both physical and mental side effects and I’m alone. Every emotion or fear you have is heightened in this process. I have always felt like a bit of a loner, even though I have so many amazing friends and family, and this just heightened that sadness for me.

I am on day 5 now, the effects are getting worse. I have severe bloating, my period symptoms are elevated to a different level and I’m scared. But I’m also optimistic. I am grateful that I’m in a position to do this and work from here to try and continue on as normal as possible. I know some women are not able to do this at such short notice, that’s why I want to tell as many of you to plan for the future, because you don’t know what will happen.

The outcome is still unknown but I’m hopeful it’ll be a positive one. I’ll be sure to update you on my next column.

Lots of a love from a very bloated, very gassy

“DON’T WASTE YOUR TIME ON people who you know are not right for you, WHO STRING YOU ALONG UNTIL THEY MOVE ON AND FIND THEIR HAPPY ENDING”

WEDDING Supplement

The DESTINATION Wedding

Soak up the sun in this stunning golden dress featuring a luxurious satin fabric that will glimmer from every angle. From sandy beaches to lakeside weddings, we have got you covered.

The BLACK TIE Wedding

Turn heads in this show-stopping black tie ensemble. Accessorize with a delicate sparkling bracelet to complete the look.

Chandra Lace Satin Maxi Dress Meshki £85

Shoreline Earrings Revolve £30

Uptown Pouch SAINT LAURENT £445

Embellished Heels Zara £59.99

Rochelle Clutch Revolve £190

Vak Heeled Sandals Aldo £65

Bold Tennis Chain Bracelet Astrid & Miyu £85

Jeany Silk Dress Reformation £330

The GARDEN Wedding

Step into the bloom with this gorgeous and romantic aesthetic. Perfect for an outdoor whimsical setting, this outfit is sure to make you feel like a garden fairy!

The BOHEMIAN Wedding

Embrace your inner free spirit with this beautiful bohemian style. The

Pearl Chain Bracelet Abbott Lyon £49

Eos Beaded Marbled Clutch Cult Gaia £290

Metallic Frill Cold Shoulder Dress Oasis £109

OOTO London Floral Satin Lace Up Maxi Dress Karen Millen £189

High Heel Lace Sandals Zara £49.99

The Cannes Leather Clutch DeMellier £315

Pink Pearl Hoops Astrid & Miyu £70

Daisey Strappy Wedge Heels Reiss £168

HOPELESSLY DEVOTED

What better way to indulge your hopeless romantic side than with a heart-wrenching tale?

From Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook to Jane Austen‘s definitive Pride & Prejudice, we guarantee you’ll fall hard for these timeless romantic novels.

Emma

By Jane Austen

Inside the pages:

Beautiful, clever, rich – and single –Emma Woodhouse is perfectly content with her life and sees no need for either love or marriage.

Nothing, however, delights her more than interfering in the romantic lives of others. But when she ignores the warnings of her good friend Mr Knightley and attempts to arrange a suitable match for her protegee Harriet Smith, her carefully laid plans soon unravel and have consequences that she never expected. With its imperfect but charming heroine and its witty and subtle exploration of relationships, Emma is often seen as Jane Austen’s most flawless work.

The Duke and I

By Julia Quinn

Inside the pages:

From their earliest days, children of aristocrats learn how to address an earl and curtsey before a prince.

Daphne Bridgerton has always failed at the latter. The fourth of eight siblings in her family, everyone likes Daphne for her kindness and wit. But no one truly desires her. Amiability is not a characteristic shared by Simon, Duke of Hastings. Yet an encounter with his best friend’s sister offers another option.

If Daphne agrees to a fake courtship, Simon can deter the mamas who parade their daughters before him. Daphne, meanwhile, will see her prospects and her reputation soar. The plan works like a charm-at first. But amid the glittering, gossipy, cut-throat world of London’s elite, there is only one certainty: love ignores every rule…

The Notebook

By Nicholas Sparks

Inside the pages: Noah Calhoun has returned from war and, in an attempt to escape the ghosts of battle, he sets his mind and his body to restoring an old plantation home to its former beauty. But he is haunted by memories of the beautiful girl he met there years before. A girl who stole his heart at the funfair, whose parents didn’t approve, a girl he wrote to every day for a year. When Allie Hamilton shows up on his doorstep, exactly as he has held her in his memory for all these years, Noah has one last chance to win her back. Only this time, it’s not just her parents in the way – Allie is engaged and she’s not a woman to go back on her promises. The Notebook is the love story to end all love stories – it will break your heart, heal it back up and break it all over again.

Jane Eyre

By Charlotte Bronte

Inside the pages: Set in the early 19th century, Charlotte Bronte’s world-renowned novel details the life of Jane Eyre, from her turbulent childhood to her time spent as governess for the discourteous Mr. Rochester. Orphaned as a child, Jane has felt an outcast her whole young life. Her courage is tested once again when she arrives at Thornfield Hall, where she has been hired by the brooding, proud Edward Rochester to care for his ward Adèle. Jane finds herself drawn to his troubled yet kind spirit. She falls in love. Hard. But there is a terrifying secret inside the gloomy, forbidding Thornfield Hall.

Me Before You

By Jojo Moyes

Inside the pages:

Will needed Lou as much as she needed him, but will her love be enough to save his life? Lou Clark knows lots of things. She knows how many footsteps there are between the bus stop and home. She knows she likes working in The Buttered Bun teashop and she knows she might not love her boyfriend Patrick. What Lou doesn’t know is she’s about to lose her job or that knowing what’s coming is what keeps her sane. Will Traynor knows his motorcycle accident took away his desire to live. He knows everything feels very small and rather joyless now and he knows exactly how he’s going to put a stop to that. What Will doesn’t know is that Lou is about to burst into his world in a riot of colour. And neither of them knows they’re going to change the other for all time.

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Professional Makeup Artist

Just moments away from Crews Hill Station, you will find Bella Jones Ceramics; an adult learning centre for ceramics and pottery and a calm oasis where you can let your creativity run free, relax and meet like minded people. Housed in one of the old garden nurseries and filled with natural light, there is plenty of workspace to try your hand at different ceramic techniques from slab building, coiling to throwing on the wheel.

The teaching style is relaxed and fun with lots of kind encouragement, play and experimentation.

The studio offers weekend taster workshops, longer throwing courses and complete beginners courses, as well as fun one off events like life modelling sculpture evenings and raku firing. You can also book private sessions for birthdays, hen dos, and company team building days.

For those who already have some experience we offer our weekly drop in classes (Clay Club) and have a small number of spaces available for those who want a full time work space and open access to the studio.

Our philosophy is that pottery is for everyone; the perfect antidote to today's hectic lifestyle. Welcoming and inclusive, we encourage absolutely everyone to come and try the magic of clay.

Style Electra

LUXURY EVENT STATIONERY

Oh So

s p e c i a l i s e i n b e s p o k e l u x u r y e v e n t s t a t i o n e r y c r e a t i n g u n i q u e a n d p e r s o n a l i s e d s t a t i o n e r y t h a t r e f l e c t s y o u r v i s i o n a n d i n d i v i d u a l s t y l e , w h i l s t a l s o i n c o r p o r a t i n g t h e l a t e s t t r e n d s . A l l t h e i r p r o d u c t s a r e p r o d u c e d i n t h e U K t o e n s u r e t ha t t h e h i g h e s t q u a l i t y s t a n d a r d s a r e m e t .

E V A

"The quality of Oh So London’s work was beyond anything we had seen from other suppliers."

S a v e t h e d a t e s - I n v i t a t i o n s - D e t a i l s c a r d s - R S V P c a r d s

W a x S e a l s - O r d e r o f s e r v i c e - M e n u s - T a b l e n u m b e r s

P l a c e n a m e c a r d s - W e l c o m e s i g n - T a b l e p l a n

G e t i n t o u c h t o d a y t o c r e a t e t h e p e r f e c t w e d d i n g s t a t i o n e r y f o r y o u r s p e c i a l d a y !

i n f o @ o h - s o . c o . u k o h s o . l o n d o n w w w . o h - s o . c o . u k

GREECE

It’s time to turn those dreams of Greek weddings into a reality. All those pictures you’ve seen in films or on postcards of sparkling turquoise seas, hidden hilltop churches and private beaches… your eyes do not deceive you, that’s the beauty of Greece right there! Weddings in Greece can be as ‘OTT’ or as laidback as you like. Choose to marvel in the splendour of a Greek wedding venue set on a terrace overlooking the ocean in Santorini, the pond-like waters and majestic island mountains laid out before you like a scene from a tale of Greek mythology. Or maybe you’d like your beach weddings in Greece to be as simple as some chairs laid out on the beach in Halkidiki.

PACK YOUR BAGS! You’re tying the knot

If you're recently engaged, congratulations! It's now time to turn your attention to planning the big day. Maybe that involves seeking out the best venues near you or lining up a brilliant photographer first. Or, maybe you're planning a wedding abroad. If the latter is up your street, we've rounded up the best destinations for tying the knot abroad, whether you're looking for sun and sea or to elope in the US.

ITALY

Italy is perhaps the most popular place in Europe for a sophisticated wedding. The venues across the majestic Amalfi Coast, as well as in nearby Naples, are worthy of the Hollywood A-List, but without the film set budgets. The region’s gorgeous coastline, with its colourful towns set into the towering rocks, impeccably kept villa gardens, not to mention the incredible food, are all ingredients that make you think of a film star’s wedding ceremony. Tuscany’s another favourite destination in the summer months, thanks to fields of sunflowers and enviable climate. For the ultimate Tuscan experience, rent Villa Medicea di Lilliano, an 11th-century wine estate with courtyards, vineyards, olive groves and swimming pools.

LAS VEGAS

Weddings and Vegas truly go hand in hand. The city that never sleeps needs no introduction. It’s big, bold and brash, the perfect ingredients for a classic style American wedding. Getting married in Vegas is a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list activity, that’s for sure. It’s surprisingly affordable, a wonderfully kitsch affair with wedding chapels, neon lights and Elvis impersonators for ministers. You can even do a drive-thru wedding in Las Vegas in a classic muscle car, for that unique ‘married in a diner’ vibe that works so well in the US desert. Follow in the footsteps of Frank Sinatra, Joan Collins, Britney Spears and many more, who have all tied the knot at A Little White Wedding Chapel.

HAWAII

The blissful Hawaiian islands are a celebrity wedding favourite, thanks to their close proximity to Los Angeles. The Royal Hawaiian Resort on Oahu is a pink palace which has played host to the rich and famous over the last 80 years. With beautiful lush gardens, a seafront setting and dozens of ceremony choices, like the terrace of the King Kamehameha Suite overlooking iconic Waikiki Beach, or the ocean lawn or coconut grove for larger celebrations. Classic wedding packages include flowers, legal documents and decorated location. You can even have a honeymoon registry here, so guests contribute to experiences such as a postwedding sunset cruise.

FRANCE

Cross the channel for some of the world’s most beautiful venues, from five-star city hotels to grand châteaux. One of the most romantic places to tie the knot is Chateau De Jalesnes in the Loire Valley. Built in 1620, it has extensive grounds with a pool, room for up to 65 friends and family and lots of ceremony choices - will you exchange vows in the tiny domed-roof chapel, in an ancient stone hunting tower, in a chestnut grove on the lawns or beside the moat? If you're after a seafront setting, stunning Cap Estel in the south of France is unbeatable. Its glamorous white tiers look remarkably similar to a wedding cake, while inside there are elegant function rooms that can cater for up to 80 guests, award-winning restaurants and bedrooms with balconies where the likes of Marilyn Monroe have gazed at the Cote d'Azur.

Check LIST

Thinking about starting to plan your big day?

12 Months Before

Set the Budget: Small or big, this is a conversation that needs to happen early on.

Book Venue: Venues book up fast—in some cases, up to a year in advance.

Draft Guest List: Family, friends – those that mean the world to you!

Engagement Party: A nice touch if you’re planning a longer engagement.

10 Months Before

Pick an Officiant: Whether it’s a classic church wedding or modern registry, days available go quickly!

Select Bridal Party: A tough call! Sophisticated, older friends? Or cute, little flower girls?

Choose Vendors: A hotel for the wedding party, a photographer, a caterer, DJ or band, and florist.

8 Months Before

Order Your Dress: Believe it or not, a wedding dress can take up to 7 or 8 months to receive after ordering— especially if you are doing something customized!

Cake Tastings + Order Cake: Enjoy yourself here! Yum, yum!

Begin Hair & Makeup Trails: Once you’ve ordered your dress, it’s a good idea to begin thinking about your beauty look – hair and makeup!

6 Months Before

Send Save the Dates: Give your guests at least a few months notice.

Book Honeymoon: Sunny, beach getaways? Or wild, mountain escapes? The list of options is endless!

Order Bridesmaids’ Dresses: These can take up to 5 months to receive after ordering, allow time for alterations.

Purchase Wedding Rings: Earlier is better if these are personalised. Just don’t lose them!

4 Months Before

Select Groomsmen Attire: Trust the groom with his attire! (We know…only if it matches!)

2 Months Before

Mail Invitations: Wedding invitations are typically sent out 6 to 8 weeks prior to the wedding.

Write or Decide on Vows/Ceremony: Choose something personal to you and your future husband.

Purchase Day Of Accessories: Your shoes, jewellery, hairpieces, veil, etc. Don’t forget “Something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue!”

Transportation: Horse drawn carriage? Ferrari? Make it personal to you and your day.

6 Weeks Before

Apply for Marriage License: Rather important, www.adviceguide.org.uk, provides useful information on the legalities.

1 Month Before

Hen & Stag Parties: Find a date that works for you. We suggest not having it the day before the wedding though!

2 Weeks Before

Final Dress Fitting: Test out your accessories with your dress. Also, it’s wise to start breaking in your wedding shoes at this point.

Give Shot List to Photographer: Put together a list of important shots you would like taken for your photographer. Review Music with DJ/Band: Touch base with your band or DJ to finalize the playlist and confirm special request songs.

1 Week Before

Final Headcount: Confirm the numbers with the hotel and planner, if you have one.

Finalize Seating Chart: Now you know who’s coming, you can decide who can and can’t sit near each other!

48 Hours Before

Finalise the Look: Man’s, pedi’s, and tans.

Day Of

Get married & live happily ever after! No wedding is perfect and things might go astray. Just remember to enjoy the moment (it goes by fast) and have fun!

Don’t do so without Close Up’s handy wedding checklist

giving you a month-by-month countdown!

Affordable and Handmade Gifts for Every Occasion

Personalised gifts hold a special place in the hearts of those who receive them. They express your love and compassion for your loved ones. As a gift-giver, you'd want to present something that the receiver would enjoy – no one wants to give a gift that will end up hidden behind a closed drawer and covered in dust, or worse, thrown away.

The finest gifts are those that will be cherished for a long time. Personalised Bee gives you just that. It provides a personal touch to your gifts, allowing your loved ones to look back on the event with beautiful memories.

As a small family business, we provide a wide variety of personalised gift ideas that may be customised with your choice of personalisation. Friendship Prints, Acrylic Plaques, Block Prints, Birthday Prints, Wedding Gifts, Posters, Typography Prints, Modern Art, Wedding and Bridal and much more.

www.personalisedbee.com @personalisedbeeco

We are a family run business based in North East England. All of our melts are highly scented and we have over 200 amazing fragrances to choose from. All of our melts are made with soy wax and are hand poured.

We have our lots of gorgeous collections available. Our latest is our ‘Fairytale’ Collection, one of our favourites!

PICKY Bits

Elevate your outdoor dining experience with a selection of accessories that are as delightful as they are practical. From stylish picnic blankets to elegant picnic baskets, we’ve put together everything you need to transform your garden into a picturesque dining oasis.

Gunnemor Throw IKEA £7

EXZACT Cutlery Set Amazon £10

Monaco Cream Parasol Robert Dyas £37.49

Four in a Row Jacques London £17.99

The Joy of Small Things by Hannah Jane Parkinson £10

SRS-XB13 Waterproof Speaker Sony £33

Wood Serving Cutlery TK Maxx £5.99

Stanley Cup Amazon £15.99

Rattan Hamper M&S £40

LEMONIZE Living

Dive into a vibrant world where zesty lemons take centre stage, infusing your living space with a burst of freshness and lively charm. Discover an array of lemon-themed home accessories carefully curated to add a touch of sunny delight to every corner of your abode. From lemon-printed cushions that enliven your sofa to lemon-shaped vases that bring a whimsical twist to your tabletops.

Raffia Crochet Shopper Accessorize £38

Old Bowl Daisy Park £42

Citron Large Lemon Candle Oliver Bonas £24.50

£39.99

Jug Home Sense £9.99

Inspiring Journey of Creativity and Resilience

My name is Ndeye, known as Fifi, I was born and raised in Cote D’voire and moved to England in 2014. I began my small candle business at the start of the pandemic. During that time, I was sourcing materials and decorating for my friends and family. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to pursue it as a formal business, I loved making my customers happy with lush candles and diffusers in their homes. Since I had so much free time, it felt like a great opportunity to go back to school to learn interior design.

Candles have always been a source of beauty and calm in my life, as a lover of candles, relaxation and all things luxe, I decided to embrace my creative flair and design experience by creating and bringing GSC to life.

All of the candles and diffusers are made from quality natural soy wax, and the diffusers are all blended by myself using natural fragrance oils. I also offer special designed candles for occasions such as weddings, gifts and more.

I hope my candles bring a little bit of love and light to your life.

TOPIC HOT

CRAZY

FOR YOU

LIVE WEST END

The West End’s free outdoor extravaganza returns for 2023

Musical theatre fans, get ready for outdoor dancing and sing-alongs with some of the West End’s biggest stars: West End Live is back! It’s the initiative that turns some of the most expensive forms of entertainment in London into the cheapest fun going. Each year, casts of some of London’s best West End musicals emerge blinking into the open-air for a weekend of free alfresco performances in Trafalgar Square, accompanied by fun photo ops, merch stalls, and bags of showbiz atmosphere.

After a few years disrupted by the pandemic, it’s pretty much settled back into a regular June weekend slot again. The line-up is TBC, but almost always includes basically every musical in the West End and coming to the West End, plus a few randomly worked in non-musicals besides.

Trafalgar Square, London, WC2 5DN www.westendlive.co.uk

MIGHTY

HOOPLA

Mighty Hoopla is London’s biggest pure pop festival and a highlight of the LGBTQ+ summer calendar. Taking place in Brixton’s Brockwell Park, this year’s line-up includes Jameilia and Natasha Beddingfield, plus a kaleidoscopic range of drag superstars, recognisable DJs and emerging LGBTQ+ performers. Oh, and Eurovision winner Loreen. As ever, Mighty Hoopla will also welcome an array of mostly LGBTQ+ club nights and venues including The Karaoke Hole, The Cocoa Butter Club and Drag Energy, so it’s safe to presume there will be glitter. Line-up includes: Kelly Rowland, Years & Years, Confidence Man, Roisin Murphy, Vengaboys. www.mightyhoopla.com

The legendary Susan Stroman directs this massive new West End production of the beloved retro musical ‘Crazy for You’ is a golden age musical comedy that’s actually from 1992: writer Ken Ludwig took a load of classic songs by George and Ira Gershwin – largely from the 1930 musical ‘Girl Crazy’ – and spun them into a shimmeringly delightful retro confection that’s almost indistinguishable from the era it’s paying homage to, the odd knowing flourish aside. Following Bobby Child, a rich banking scion who must – for complicated reasons – stage a successful musical in a backwater Nevada town in order to win over the woman he loves, it’s a loving tribute to a bygone era of great American musicals that probably seemed more distant in the Lloyd Webber-dominated early ’90s than it does now.

www.crazyforyoumusical.com

MARYLEBONE

SUMMER FESTIVAL

Outdoor film screenings, live music, alfresco bars and dining, craft stalls and a dog show: you’ll find all this and more at Marylebone’s annual summer fair which takes over Paddington Street Gardens for a whole weekend in June. Visit on Saturday for open-air film screenings of recent blockbuster hits like ‘Elvis’ starring Tom Hanks and Austin Butler. Or visit on Sunday when Marylebone Village will be pedestrianised to make way for fashion and food stalls, funfair rides, DJs and bubble artists. Essentially, a summer fête dialled up to 11. www.marylebonevillage.com

The Cost of Crisis:Living

It’s Not All Doom & Gloom When It Comes to Property

Last month, the Bank of England announced its 12th consecutive interest rate hike, pushing rates to 4.5%, the highest it’s been for nearly 15 years. It’s no secret that this, coupled with soaring inflation means that everyone’s feeling the pinch right now. However, it’s not all bad news when it comes to the property market and there might just be light at the end of the tunnel.

Although house prices have fallen slightly over the past few months and it’s not shaping up to be the bumper year that many homeowners had hoped for, demand for property in North London remains high. We’ve come through the postpandemic grapple for space and flats are very much back in favour. In fact, according to Rightmove, agreed sales are up by 23% on this time four years ago. Good news for anyone looking to sell theirs. This doesn’t mean that larger properties aren’t in demand too. In fact, we received 26 offers on family homes in the month of May alone! We’ve also registered over 90 different “ready and able” buyers interested in purchasing a family home in Southgate and the surrounding areas.

Inflation rates don’t seem to be putting off first-time buyers either, they’re currently making up 53% of the overall sales in the UK, the highest figure in over 10 years. This could be helped out by lenders who are trying to remain competitive and think of creative ways to help people get on the property ladder. Skipton Building Society caused a stir amongst the property finance industry when it recently announced its 100% mortgage

product. This thinking outside the box is welcome news to would-be homeowners and bold moves like this could really shake up the market.

Talking about the current property market, Ben Felfeli, Director of Charles Henry Peppiatt (pictured) said, “Although the cost of living crisis continues to have an effect on the property market, it’s not all bad news. Anyone looking to buy or sell a property shouldn’t completely rule it out as in our experience, demand is as great as ever.”

A bit about us…

Here at Charles Henry Peppiatt we live, love and breathe North London. Whether it’s the best street to relocate to, the hottest property to come on the market, or the coolest place to grab a coffee, you can rely on us to have our ear to the ground.

We like to do things differently and pride ourselves in not being your ‘typical’ estate agent. Our dedicated team goes above and beyond for each and every one of our clients. You can expect complete honesty from us, the very best service, whether you’re looking to buy, sell or rent out your property… and a bit of humour thrown in too!

EDUCATION Supplement

School’s Out!

Whatever the weather, living in London means there’s no shortage of fun things to do in the school summer holidays. We’ve rounded up our favourite summer activities for kids in an effort to prevent hearing the dreaded words: “I’m bored!”

THE WORLDWONDERFUL TOUR BLIPPI:

28 July – 6 August

Alexandra Palace

10 July – 3 September

Theatre Royal Haymarket

Tickets from £12

Based on the well-loved picture book by Judith Kerr, the Olivier Award nominated show The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns to the West End for Summer. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos.

CAME TO TEA THE TIGER WHO OUT DINE

Archipelago

Dare your kids to try crickets, crocodile and python as part of the unusual menu at Archipelago, which describes itself as a “portal to world cuisine” – one of the most fun restaurants in London, it’s sure to create an experience to brag about to their friends. Situated on a quiet Fitzrovia side street, Archipelago is one of London’s most exotic and unusual dining destinations. This restaurant promises to take diners on an uncharted culinary journey where signature meals of seared zebra, kangaroo fillet and African crocodile bites are offered alongside more conventional dishes.

Poppie’s Fish & Chips

Let the kids soak up 1950s vibes as they’re transported back to a bygone era at Poppie’s Fish and Chips’ shops. Cod, fishcakes and sausage all feature on the menu, or they can opt for haddock, scampi and even jellied eels (now there’s one for adventurous kids) from the main options. Find Poppies in Spitalfields, Camden and Soho.

Dance, sing, and learn with Blippi and special guest Meekah as they discover what makes different cities unique and special. There will be monster trucks, excavators, and garbage trucks galore so kids can shake those wiggles out and OJ Twist their way through this musical party.

LIFE-SIZED DINOSAURS MEET 50

24 July – 10 August

Grovelands Park

Tickets from £11.50

Summer in London isn’t summer in London without some sort of massive dinosaurbased experience to satisfy your little ones’ alarmingly intense prehistoric-lizard needs. Jurassic Encounter is this year’s offering, and will bring a veritable mesozoic menagerie to north London, with 50 lifesized animatronic dinos on display, ranging from the obvious – T.rex, duh – to the downright obscure: lufengosaurus, anybody? We’re also promised VR, ride-on dinosaurs and that classic playground staple, the fossil sandpit. But really this is about giving your sprogs IRL dinosaur content for an hour or two, for which they’ll probably be modestly grateful.

HORRIBLE HISTORIES:

’ORRIBLE OPERA

22 July

Royal Albert Hall

Tickets from £9

We love pretty much everything from the Horrible Histories team, we think they’re geniuses! From dying divas and spellbinding sorceresses to ghosts and generals, they’re promising a high-decibel dive into the Horrible History of Opera. Experience the very best of music’s biggest, bloodiest and most dramatic genre, and discover the stories behind some of opera’s best-loved tunes in the company of your favourite Horrible Histories characters.

It’s never too late… …TO GIVE YOUR DAUGHTER THE BEST EDUCATION

At Palmers Green High School (PGHS), we know that girls do better in an allgirls environment. Research has shown that pupils in single-sex schools are more confident to participate in lessons, and are more likely to reach their full potential. And for girls in particular, the benefits can be profound and last well beyond their school days.

A recent investigation into the effects of all-girls education found that alumnae demonstrated stronger academic skills, greater engagement with their studies, higher confidence in science and technology skills and stronger community involvement. Girls in same-sex schools have more opportunities to excel athletically and take on school leadership roles.

PGHS not only benefits from being an all-girls school – the only all-girls through school in the area – but also from small class sizes throughout. In the Lower School (ages 4-11), there are a maximum of 24 pupils in a class and many specialist subjects such as Design & Technology are taught to half-class groups, ensuring far greater access to resources and adult attention. In the Senior School (ages 11-16), teaching groups are usually between 12-16 pupils, and often lower for the crucial GCSE years. The level of interaction between teachers and students is unrivalled.

Being a smaller school gives all children greater access to the many opportunities beyond the classroom, such as participating in a school musical production, sports team or chess tournament. Pupil voice is lauded and girls are expected to take on leadership roles that would usually be reserved for Sixth Form pupils. Student Council offers all pupils the chance to suggest changes that they would like to see.

At PGHS there are no such things as ‘girls’ subjects’; all subjects are for girls and ours excel across the curriculum, with a large number of pupils going on to study sciences and maths at A-level and pursue degrees and careers in STEM fields.

At PGHS, our three main points of entry to the school are Nursery, Reception and Year 7, although ad-hoc places may be available in other year groups. If you are as passionate as us about girls’ education and want to give your daughter the best start in life, please come and visit us. We believe all girls should have access to academic rigour and challenge in a supportive, nurturing environment.

Join our local family

If you would like to join our school, we welcome you to attend our summer term Open Mornings which will provide you with the opportunity to see our excellent facilities and meet our wonderful teachers. Please register online today at www.pghs.co.uk/home/openmornings

To find out more about our school, please visit www.pghs.co.uk or contact the school office on 020 8886 1135 or office@pghs.co.uk

AUTISM

Having served as an educator and leader for an extensive period, I have increasingly observed the significance of the topic of Autism. Engaging in discussions about Autism can be sensitive and unsettling for certain individuals; therefore, it is crucial to possess knowledge and skills to address misconceptions. From my perspective, individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are no different from any other person. It is essential to familiarise yourself with their unique qualities, understand their learning styles, and make the requisite adjustments to facilitate their development. As a teacher, the most gratifying experience arises from witnessing and actively contributing to their progress.

Throughout the years, it has become increasingly apparent that the proportion of children identified with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) has witnessed a parallel growth. Undoubtedly, there has been a surge in diagnoses following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and this upward trend persists to this day.

It is crucial for everyone to possess awareness and understanding of Autism, as our future generations will need to adapt in order to meet the needs of individuals within our society. By cultivating this awareness, we can foster an inclusive environment that embraces and supports individuals with Autism. This not only benefits those directly affected by Autism, but also promotes a more empathetic and accepting society as a whole. As we prepare for the future, equipping ourselves with knowledge about Autism empowers us to create a more inclusive and accommodating world for everyone.

What is Autism?

Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Those with Autism will see the world differently and will often represent different behaviours. It is a spectrum disorder which means some people will experience it more severely whilst others minorly. Some of the developmental areas which are impacted are: social awareness, thinking, fine and gross motor skills, repetitive behaviours, sensory/ information processing and non-verbal and verbal communication.

There are varying theories about what causes Autism.

Early signs of Autism

The signs of ASD can be present from as early on as 2-3 years old. As an Early Years Leader, I have been able to identify characteristics in children from a very young age, so here are some to look out for:

• Lack of eye contact with anyone

• Does not respond to name

• Repetitive behaviours

• Extreme outbursts/behaviours

• Solitary play

• Lack of spatial awareness

• Sensitivity to loud noises

• Misunderstanding everyday emotions

What can you do if you think your child has Autism?

• Visit the GP and express concerns

• Meet with your child’s class teacher and school SENCO

• Aim to be assessed by an ASD specialist

• Apply for an EHCP alongside supporting agencies

It is vital to recognise that each step in the process takes time, and therefore, patience is of utmost importance. Following a diagnosis, the school and relevant agencies will gain a better understanding of the child’s needs and work towards providing the necessary support. This may involve developing individualised education plans, implementing specialised interventions, and collaborating with various professionals to create an optimal learning environment. Remember progress is progress!

You can find some more activities on my fun educational ideas Instagram for younger children.

@the_magic_of_eyfs

(Early Years Foundation Stage)

By Anna Pericleous Teacher and Leader of Early Years and Primary Education

Keble Prep

A vibrant, forward-thinking education for pupils aged 3-13.

NEW FROM SEPT 2023

• Term-time Nursery 3+

• Fully co-educational across all year groups

WRAP AROUND CARE SMALL CLASS SIZES SCHOOL CLUBS

from 7.35am6.00pm

16 pupils maximum per class wide range on offer

BURSARIES AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Available from Year 3

Contact Admissions:

t: 0208 360 3359

e: admissions@kebleprep.co.uk

w: kebleprep.co.uk

Book a tour:

Keble Prep

Wades Hill, Winchmore Hill, London N21 1BG Follow us

@KeblePrepSchool

Part of The Mill Hill School Foundation

Motherhood #NoFilter

Katerina talks all things motherhood, family life, relationships, work, and trying to do it all at once, with of course, #NoFilter

@keepingupwithkaterina @keepingupwithmyclassroom

Half term, here again so soon? I’m not sure if it’s just me, but these days, weeks, months, half terms and terms are just flying by (and I can’t work out if that’s a good or bad thing at the moment!)

May/June half term brings the last mini-break in the school year before the joy that is the 6 weeks summer holidays!

So here’s some suggestions for an experience, a couple of days away, and obviously where to eat with your little ones this half term! I hope you all have a wonderful time and let’s hope for some great weather to go with it.

What to experience:

Thames Rockets

I’m a real experience girl, I love an activity as a day out, Rico is full of energy and sometimes expecting him to sit down and not move for a long period of time is boredline impossible. One experience that I’ve wanted to do is go on the Thames Rockets, a speed boat tour that lasts for 50 mins on the Thames for an ulimate tour of our beautiful city.

Every single person who has been on the Thames Rockets has had nothing but positive feedback and have all booked to go again. I’ve been waiting for the weather to improve to book and go, so I’m excited to finally be going next week.

@ThamesRockets

www.ThamesRockets.com

Where to go and where to stay:

If you want to go out of London, we recently went to Bath in the Easter break, it was such a lovely town, very scenic and beautiful and we also visited Longleat Safari Park (which I think was more

to fulfill Jamie’s childhood dreams over Rico’s but that’s another story). There was a beautiful lake boat trip that we went on where we spotted some sleepy Hippos and some very hungry and funny seals, a beautiful avery where you can purchase some bird food and watch them fly onto your arms! There’s a drive round bit that you can do to see the Monkeys, Lions, Zebras, Bears, Wolves and many more. It is HUGE and there’s so much for the kids to do, it’s a really lovely day out. We stayed in the Bath Hotel Spa which was lovely, had an indoor/outdoor pool and a restaurant where we ate the best steak.

Where to eat:

I only have one child, and honestly, feeding him can be so expensive (especially as all he wants from wherever we go is prawns – don’t ask). Bringing a packed lunch isn’t always something you can or even want to do and cooking three meals a day including have unlimited snacks on tap for a whole week sounds like more of a punishment than a happy week off, so if you did want to go and eat, without breaking the bank of course, here are some restaurants who have some great deals for eating out with your little ones this half term, some that are free with an adult meal, some that are very cheap!

(PS, I found these all on Money Saving Central and Groupon, I would suggest going back and checking out the website as they’re always adding and updating it).

1. Gordon Ramsay Restaurants

2. Sainsbury’s, Asda and Morrisons Cafes

3. Hungry Horse

4. Preto

5. Beefeater

6. The Real Greek

7. Bella Italia

8. Ikea

9. YO! Sushi

10. Cafe Rouge

Nursery Places Available

I could not recommendWoodlandsDay NurseryinBarnethighlyenough. Bothofoursonshavegoneto Woodlandsandtheyabsolutely loved their time there. We found all ofthesta tobecaring,kindand knowledgeableandmyboysreally developeddeeprelationships with the sta . Parent, www.daynurseries.co.uk

My name is Eliana, I’m a 29 year old self-taught baker. Baking has always been a passion of mine, I finally took the plunge to start my business, House of Bake.

We’re based in Totteridge and Whetstone offering bespoke mini cakes, cupcakes, biscuits and a number of other yummy bakes for any occasion!

I take great pride in the quality and taste of my baked goods, one of the things I love most about baking is the ability to create something unique and special for each customer.

Since House of Bake we’ve been busy ever since however, the ultimate dream is to have my own bakery and concessions stands.

Serves 4

Prep 25 mins

Cook 10 mins

Ingredients

500g pack 10% fat British beef mince • 1 small red onion, grated or very finely chopped

• 1 egg, beaten • 1 tbsp sunflower oil

Method

In a large bowl, combine the mince, onion and egg; season. Shape into 4 patties, put on a plate, cover and chill for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, for the pickled onion, in a small bowl, mix the vinegar, a large pinch of salt and another of caster sugar (optional), until dissolved. Stir in the onion and set aside. In a separate small bowl, mix together the ingredients for the burger sauce; set aside.

• 4 cheese slices

• 4 white sesame seed burger buns, halved

• ½ romaine heart, leaves torn

• ½ cucumber, peeled into ribbons (using a vegetable peeler)

• 2 tomatoes, sliced

Quick-pickled onion

5 tbsp red wine vinegar

Burger sauce

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

To cook, heat the oil in a large, heavy based frying pan over a medium-high heat. When hot, add the patties and fry for 4-5 minutes, until well-browned underneath, then flip, top each with a cheese slice, and cook for a further 3-4 minutes, until cooked through, the juices run clear and no pink meat remains. Meanwhile, toast the buns.

6 tbsp mayonnaise

• 4 tbsp tomato ketchup

• 2 tsp dijon mustard

Spread a little burger sauce over the bun bases and top with some lettuce. Sit the patties on the lettuce, cheese-side up. Spread over a little more sauce, if liked, then layer on a couple of tomato slices, a few pickled onions, and some cucumber ribbons. Top with the bun lids and dig in.

SPICED CORN on the cob

Inspired by Mexican street food, the sweetcorn

is treated to a creamy sauce and sprinkles of pecorino.

Serves 8

Prep 15 mins

Cook 10 mins

Ingredients

30g unsalted butter • 2 packs

sweetcorn kebabs • 2 tbsp Encona

Original Hot Pepper Sauce, plus extra to serve (optional) • 4 tbsp mayonnaise • 4 tbsp soured cream • 1 unwaxed lime, juice, plus extra wedges to serve • 2 clove/s garlic, crushed • ½ x 25g pack coriander, finely chopped • 50g pecorino, finely grated

Method

Prepare your barbecue for direct cooking. Melt the butter in a small pan over a low heat. Put the sweetcorn kebabs on a baking tray and brush with the melted butter. In a shallow bowl, mix the hot pepper sauce, mayonnaise, soured cream, lime juice, garlic and ½ the chopped coriander until combined. Put the sweetcorn kebabs on the grill over the medium-hot part of the barbecue. Cook, turning often, for 6-8 minutes or until tender and lightly charred. Return the corn to the tray then, working quickly one at a time, drizzle over the spicy mayonnaise until generously coated. Scatter with the pecorino and remaining coriander. Serve with extra hot pepper sauce, if liked, plus lime wedges for squeezing over.

Triple-cooked CHIPS

The triple cooking creates chips that are satisfyingly crunchy on the outside yet soft and fluffy within.

Serves 2

Prep 15 mins

Cook 25 mins

Ingredients

2 large Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes, peeled • 2L vegetable oil, for deep frying

Method

Cut the peeled potatoes lengthways into chunky chips. Rinse the chips thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch, then bring a large pan of unsalted water to the boil.

Carefully add the potatoes to the water and boil, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes, or until they are thoroughly cooked and soft but still retain their shape. Put a clean, dry tea towel onto a baking tray. Remove the chips from the water and drain on the cloth, making sure they are well spaced. Allow the chips to steam-dry for 10 minutes, until cool.

Preheat the oil in a deep fat fryer to 120oC and line the baking tray with clean kitchen paper. Carefully lower the cooled chips into the hot oil and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until lightly golden and the surfaces have formed crusts. Remove from the oil and drain on the paper, again, well-spaced.

Increase the oil temperature to 190oC. Repeat the frying process for 2-3 minutes, or until the chips are crisp and golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on the paper. Tip the chips into a large bowl, season with fine salt and toss well.

Recipes and images courtesy of Waitrose. Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com

DAD-CHELOR Pad

We’ve left no stone unturned in our quest to discover gifts that go beyond the ordinary, ensuring an unforgettable Father’s Day experience. Whether your dad is a trendsetter or a modern-day superhero, our handpicked selection will inspire you.

Leather Monogrammed Billfold Wallet Paul Smith £155

Sauvage Eau De Toilette 60ml Spray

Dior £60

Midnight Recovery Omega-Rich Cloud Cream 50ml Kiehl’s £46

Papa Blue Ceramic Mug Oliver Bonas £12

Suede Mule Slippers The White Company £48

Vertuo Next Premium Coffee Machine Nespresso £79

Louise Striped Silk Twill Square Scarf Ralph Lauren £89

Watch Olive Aluminium Case with Sport Band Apple £259

Milano Sunglasses Aspinal of London £175 Gazelle Shoes Adidas £75

GRILLED SEA BREAM

with charred tomato & olive salsa

Serves 4

Prep 20 mins

Cook 25 mins

Ingredients

180g pack The Levantine Table Herby Labneh Yogurt Dip • 3 anchovy fillets, finely chopped • 4 whole sea bream, scaled and gutted (available from the fish counter), skin patted dry and scored 3 or 4 times • 60ml olive oil • 4 flatbreads, grilled

For the charred tomato & olive salsa

400g cherry tomatoes • 45ml olive oil • 1 tbsp light brown soft sugar • 1/4 x 20g pack lemon thyme, leaves only • 1 ½ pared zest, ½ fine zest, then cut into wedges • 1 large shallot, thinly sliced • 2 clove/s garlic, thinly sliced • 60g nonpareille capers, drained and rinsed • 80g Kalamata olives, pitted and halved • 30ml red wine vinegar

Method

Fire up your barbecue ready for direct grilling (cooking directly over the heat). In a small bowl, mix the labneh dip with the anchovies; cover and chill until ready to serve. For the salsa, put the tomatoes in a small roasting tin or foil tray. Mix in the oil, sugar, thyme and pared lemon zest; season. Put the tin on the barbecue and cook for about 6 minutes, stirring regularly, until the tomatoes are just starting to burst and blister. Add the shallot, cook for 1 minute, then add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Stir through the capers and olives, then cook for a few more minutes. Add the vinegar, stirring up all the juicy bits from the bottom, then take off the heat. Remove the pared zest, stir in the fine lemon zest and set aside while you cook the fish.

Liberally brush the fish on both sides with most of the olive oil; season with salt flakes. Place the sea bream directly on the grill grate (or in a fish basket) and grill for 4-6 minutes on each side (depending on thickness) until cooked through with crisp skin. The flesh should be opaque, slightly firm and flake when light pressure is applied. Transfer the fish to serving plates, season with black pepper, spoon over the salsa and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Serve with the labneh mixture, grilled flatbreads and lemon wedges for squeezing over.

BARBECUE BEEF SHORT RIBS

Serves 4

Prep 20 mins

Cook 25 mins

Ingredients

100ml bourbon whiskey • 200ml apple juice • 100ml white wine vinegar • 100g dark muscovado

sugar • 3 tbsp clear honey • 3 tbsp

Worcestershire sauce • 2 tbsp Dijon

mustard • 1 tbsp hot smoked paprika

• 4 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed

• 4 beef short ribs (about 2.2kg)

Method

Preheat the oven to 150°C, gas mark 2. For the marinade, combine all ingredients except the ribs in a large bowl and whisk until the sugar has dissolved. Arrange the ribs bone-side up in a single layer in a roasting tray or ovenproof dish. Pour over the marinade then cover tightly with foil.

Transfer to the oven and cook for 4 hours until tender. Remove the ribs from the liquid and set aside to cool completely. Pour the marinade into a large jug and leave for 10 minutes to settle – the fat will rise to the top during this time. Skim the fat from the top of the liquid and discard. Pour the marinade into a saucepan, bring to the boil then reduce by half until dark and sticky.

Preheat the barbecue or grill. Add the ribs and heat through for 10 minutes, turning regularly. Towards the end of cooking, brush the meat regularly with the reduced sauce, keep the ribs moving at this point to prevent the sauce from burning. Remove the ribs from the heat and give them a final brush with the sauce. Serve with the remaining sauce.

Proper Quality Italian Food At Its Best For Everyone To Enjoy

Giorgio & son Gianni welcome you to an excellent Italian dining experience

DAILY SET MENU £17.80

BOOK NOW FOR FATHER’S DAY

OPEN EVERY DAY EXCEPT MONDAYS ADVISABLE TO BOOK IN ADVANCE

please check our full menu online

A Culinary Experience at the Brookmans Pub

Nestled in the heart of Brookmans Park, the Brookmans Pub offers a refined and sophisticated dining experience that sets it apart from your typical pub.

From its high ceilings to its grand ambiance, the pub exudes an air of elegance that immediately captivates you. During our visit, the friendly staff ensured that our experience was nothing short of exceptional, and the delectable dishes we indulged in only added to the overall charm of the evening.

To start our culinary adventure, we opted for a trio of appetisers that showcased the pub’s commitment to quality and flavour. From the specials board, the Wood Pigeon Breast, delicately accompanied by a medley of wild mushrooms, was a remarkable composition of earthy and gamey notes. The succulent meat perfectly melded with the rich and aromatic game jus, creating a harmonious symphony of flavours.

Another delightful starter was the Garlic and Paprika King Prawns on Toasted Sourdough Bread. The prawns were cooked to absolute perfection. Nestled on a bed of toasted sourdough, each bite offered a delightful crunch that complemented the succulent prawns beautifully. To round off our appetisers, we savoured the Halloumi Fries. Crispy on the outside, yet delightfully gooey on the inside.

Moving on to the main course, the Cornish Lamb Cutlets stole the spotlight. Cooked to perfection, these tender cutlets were accompanied by boulangère potatoes and vibrant tenderstem broccoli. The lamb’s natural flavours were enhanced by a luscious mint gravy, which added a refreshing and aromatic touch to the dish. The combination of tender meat, creamy potatoes, and crisp vegetables created a plate that was both comforting and satisfying.

Equally captivating was Jimmy Butler’s Glazed Pork Belly, accompanied by ssamjang potatoes and miso and sesame cabbage. The pork belly was expertly cooked, resulting in a meltin-your-mouth texture that was further enhanced by the glaze.

The ssamjang potatoes provided a burst of flavour, while the miso and sesame cabbage added a touch of complexity to the dish. Each element harmoniously combined to create a symphony of taste that left us yearning for more.

Finally, we concluded our culinary journey with the pièce de résistance: the Sticky Toffee Pudding topped with vanilla ice cream. This classic dessert was a heavenly delight, with its moist and rich sponge drenched in a decadent toffee sauce. The warmth of the pudding was beautifully balanced by the cool creaminess of the vanilla ice cream, creating a divine union of textures and flavours.

In conclusion, our experience at the Brookmans Pub was nothing short of exceptional. From the elegant ambiance to the friendly staff, every aspect of the visit was thoughtfully curated to provide an unforgettable dining experience. The dishes we indulged in, from the tantalising starters to the heavenly dessert, showcased the pub’s commitment to culinary excellence. If you’re seeking a cosy yet classy establishment that combines elegance with remarkable flavours, the Brookmans Pub is undoubtedly the place to be.

The Next Social Ltd

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT WITH A TWIST!

The Next Social Ltd was born from a passion for social media & marketing, business development and a desire to help ALL businesses whether big or small, succeed on the global stage.

We believe that all businesses will thrive and reach their full potential when managed properly on the social media platform.

The Next Social uses three core areas of expertise to provide you a complete managed service you can feel secure with:

• Social Media Management

• Sales & Marketing

• Business Consulting

We don’t just stop here, we get to know your business, your culture, your growth plan and we create a bespoke package to enable us to take you there! We get excited when you grow, its simple.

Get in touch!

www.thenextsocial.co.uk @thenextsocial

Founder: Dolores Tomas CEO: Ken Wade

“THE NEXT SOCIAL IS changing the mindset THAT DIGITAL MARKETING IS GOING AWAY OR IT’S JUST A PHASE. SO WE SAY TAKE THE COMPLEX, MAKE IT SIMPLE. TAKE THE SIMPLE, MAKE IT FASTER. TAKE THE FASTER, MAKE IT MORE AVAILABLE. That’s the TNS innovation in it’s finest form”

OLD BANK

COFFEE HOUSE

F o r m e r b a n k b u i l d i n g t u r n e d m o d e r n c o f f e e h o u s e , O l d B a n k C o f f e e H o u s e i s a f a m i l y - o w n e d i n d e p e n d e n t s p e c i a l t y c o f f e e s h o p s e t i n t h e h e a r t o f E a s t B a r n e t ’ s v i l l a g e c o m m u n i t y W e p r o u d l y s e r v e e x p e r t l y r o a s t e d c o f f e e b y E a s t L o n d o n r o a s t e r y , C l i m p s o n & S o n ’ s A l o n g s i d e o u r m a i n c o f f e e r o o m , w e h a v e a s m a l l w o r k i n g n o o k a n d s e c l u d e d c h i l d r e n ’ s p l a y a r e a

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WHAT’S ON

The seemingly endless scroll of Netflix’s treasure trove of terrific shows and movies can be more than a little paralyzing when trying to choose something to watch. If you’ve just finished a good series and need a new one to fill the void, Close Up is assembling a monthly list of the best TV shows currently available on the streaming service, from classics of yesteryear to the hottest new titles. Below, we’ve rounded up the best shows on Netflix right now, so you can binge-watch without having to hunt for the right title.

2 3

OUR PLANET II

From the Emmy Award-winning team behind Planet Earth and Our Planet comes Our Planet II. At any given moment on planet Earth, billions of animals are on the move. Captured with spectacular and innovative cinematography, Our Planet II unravels the mysteries of how and why animals migrate to reveal some of the most dramatic and compelling stories in the natural world.

MCGREGOR FOREVER

In 2021, Conor McGregor faced one of the most demanding years of his career. Three fights in twelve months with the eyes of the world watching. Now, as the superstar prepares for his return to the octagon as he takes on the most important battle of his career, this allaccess series will be a behind the scenes look at how Conor got here and why he’s still the driving force in the UFC.

SELLING SUNSET

NETFLIX

NEVER HAVE I EVER

Never Have I Ever is a comingof-age comedy about the complicated life of a modern-day first-generation Indian American teenage girl. The series stars Maitreyi Ramakrishnan as Devi, an overachieving high school student who has a short fuse that gets her into difficult situations.

Never Have I Ever is created by executive producers, Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher, with Fisher serving as the showrunner.

Never Have I Ever is produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, and executive produced by 3 Arts Entertainment’s Howard Klein and David Miner.

BLACK MIRROR

Expect the unexpected. The long-awaited return of Charlie Brooker’s dark, satirical anthology series which reinvents itself with each new episode. The sixth season of Black Mirror is the most unpredictable, unclassifiable and unexpected yet. Aaron Paul, Anjana Vasan, Annie Murphy, Auden Thornton, and Ben Barnes headline the cast for this season.

WORKING: WHAT WE DO ALL DAY

A compelling documentary that explores the ways in which we find meaning in our work and how our experiences and struggles connect us on a human level. Narrated by President Barack Obama, who makes appearances alongside everyday people in their homes and places of work, the series follows individuals at all levels of the workforce — from service jobs all the way up to the C-suite — across the industries of home care, tech, and hospitality.

SOCK OF A KIND is a premium sock brand with styles inspired by Africa’s boldly distinctive design, architecture, and cultural abundance. While simultaneously having an intrinsic connection to London Street culture as the founder is a secondgeneration African born and raised in London.

SOCKS ARE OUR CANVAS, AFRICA IS OUR PAINT.

We use socks as our canvas to tell personal stories of the continent and to empower the African diaspora. We use socks to raise consciousness about African culture and as a practical way of expressing our passion and identity.

WE HAVE TO BE OUR OWN.