Close Up November 2023

RITA ORA

The future is bright

Chef’s Kiss The ultimate Food Supplement

ALL OF THE LIGHTS A Christmas getaway

SNUG SEASON Winter wardrobe essentials

Beauty and Beyond

It’s glam season

LIFE IN THE SPOTLIGHT

An exclusive interview with Love Island’s Sammy Root

NOVEMBER 2023 closeupuk.com

Join us for our

palaceshopping.co.uk

SUN 26 NOV

SUN 3 DEC

Music from The Candy Girls Glamour from the Glitterbelles

Meet Pip the Polar Bear Dance with Ebor and Gum

Magic from Small Talk The Wish Fairies from the Elves

Music from Chill with Jayne Darling Jack Frost

SUN 10 DEC Meet the Christmas Elephant Groove with Festive Kitsch Cafe Meet the Direct the Gingerbread People Two Wisemen

CHARITY GIFTWRAP! Sat 9, 16 and 23 December 11am - 3pm

at

The Heart of Your Home this Christmas

KitchenAid Artisan Mixer £599 Cole & Mason Chopping Board £24.95 Cole & Mason Langley Pestle & Mortar £21.95 Le Creuset Petite Round Casserole 0.25l £23 Dualit Classic Copper 2 Slice Toaster £169 Explore these and many more in our Home Department on the First Floor

Pearsons 11-14 The Town Enfield EN2 6LJ pearsonsenfield.co.uk

@pearsonsenfield

Bobbi Brown Bronzed Nude Eye Shadow Palette £42

Bobbi Brown Luxe Eyeshadow £32

Estée Lauder Futurist Hydra Rescue £40

Bobbi Brown Long Wear Cream Shadow Stick £29.50

Lancôme Le Stylo Waterproof £25

6 • CLOSEUP

Festive Beauty at Pearsons Explore these and all our brands in our Beauty Department on the Ground Floor

Dior Addict Lip Glow £32

Clinique Even Better Light Reflecting Primer £30

Benefit Fan Fest Mascara £25.50 Camp Hopson Pearsons 7-11 Northbrook Street 11-14 TheNewbury Town RG14 1DS Enfield @camphopsonnewbury

EN2 6LJ

All items are subject to availability. Prices correct at time of printing.

pearsonsenfield.co.uk

@pearsonsenfield

This month in

EDITOR'S LETTER

Cover Interview Page 14

Food Supplement Page 44

One more

Living Page 36

SLEEP E

very year when the November flat plan drops on my desk around September time, it really hits me that we’re nearing the end of the year. Every month on print day I say to myself, ‘that’s another one!’ but today as I write my editors letter, I realise that I will only say this to myself one more time in 2023. Our November edition is a beacon of anticipation, marking the exhilarating countdown to Christmas. On the cover we have the sensational Rita Ora. Rita's enchanting presence sets the tone as she shares her journey on becoming UK’s pop princess and her latest collaboration with Primark, shining a light into her past.

This month we've curated a guide to Vienna's enchanting Christmas markets, so you can immerse yourself in the cosy ambiance of twinkling lights, mulled wine, and handmade crafts. And not to mention the incredible food supplement. Our annual food supplement is a culinary wonderland that showcases the incredible variety of local restaurants, each offering a unique

Food Page 56

cuisine experience. From mouthwatering Italian delicacies to exotic Asian flavours and hearty comfort food, there's something for every palate. You'll also find a collection of incredible food recipes, perfect for creating festive feasts at home and sharing moments of togetherness with your loved ones.

This season is the time to catch up with old friends over afternoon tea, enjoy a local Sunday roast with the family or finally arrange those drinks you and your friends have been talking about. Either way, food is the heart of this season, and the heart of this edition.

Bon Appétit!

Leah x EDITOR leah@closeupuk.com

Fashion Page 10

Follow us on Instagra m @closeu pmagazi neuk Faceboo k @closeu pmagazi neuk and Twitt er @CloseU pMag

Travel Page 70

Advertise Your Business With Style Southgate, Palmers Green, Winchmore Hill, Grange Park, Enfield, Oakwood, Hampden Square, Cockfosters, Crouch End, Hadley Wood, Barnet, Totteridge, Whetstone, Finchley, Muswell Hill and Potters Bar.

Netflix Page 72

Publisher and Editor Leah Shakallis leah@closeupuk.com Field Sales Assistant Elena Pedonomou elena@closeupuk.com Accounts Director Chris Papacosta chris@closeupuk.com Careers charley@closeupuk.com Big Mouth officialbigmouth@outlook.com Cover Image Primark

If you would like to advertise your business with style, contact 020 8323 2444 sayhello@closeupuk.com Tel 020 8323 2444 Email sayhello@closeupuk.com Web www.closeupuk.com Printed by the Magazine Printing Company PLC www.magprint.co.uk

RECYCLE

PLEASE NOTE: Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Although we make every effort to quote correct prices of items featured, it is possible that these may have changed on going to press. Although we endeavour to ensure any organisations or firms mentioned are reputable, the editor cannot guarantee they will fulfil obligations in all circumstances. Neither the editor nor the publisher can accept responsibility for any materials submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. The editor reserves the right to edit any materials supplied as she sees fit.

8 • CLOSEUP

Wedding Page 34

Close Up's very own anonymous columnist Big Mouth is stepping out of the shadows and onto your screens with a hilarious, sexy, and delightfully awkward dating podcast. Stay tuned!

NOVEMBER 2023

CLOSEUP • 9

FASHION

Cosy SZN Boohoo

From comfy cardigans to toasty scarves, we’re diving headfirst into warm, neutral tones that’ll make you feel as good as you look.

10 • CLOSEUP

Relaxed Cardigan H&M £39.99

Area Lo Sneaker Axel Arigato £265

Scrunchie Claire’s £2.25

Ribbed Wool Blend Beanie & Other Stories £35

Moisson Fringed Ombré Scarf Jacquemus £170

Soft Turtleneck Top Zara £17.99 Wool Blend Coat H&M £169.99

Narciso Eau de Parfum Narciso Rodriguez £39

Yoga Throwback Sock Alo £24 Soft Trousers Zara £22.99

Tasman UGG £100

Contrast Knit Vest Zara £45.99

CLOSEUP • 11

FASHION Hooded Puffer Jacket H&M £39.99

Knit Puffer Jacket Maniere De Voir £149.99

PUFFER Up

Cute as a marshmallow and as warm as a smore, oversized puffers will be your wardrobe go-to this winter.

Let’s face it, living in London in the winter means you’ll need to bundle.

And bundle you will with this thebigger-the-better jacket trend.

Wind Protection Anorak Zara £59.99

Cropped Puffer Zara £49.99

Ultra Mini Puffer Abercrombie & Fitch £145

Corduroy Puffer Jacket Pull & Bear £49.99

Image: Christy Turlington, Copyright: Steven Meisel, 1992, Vogue Italia Stylist: Carlyne Cerf de Dudzeele

Image: Christy Turlington, Copyright: Steven Meisel, 1992, Vogue Italia Stylist: Carlyne Cerf de Dudzeele Image: Christy Turlington, Copyright: Steven Meisel, 1992, Vogue Italia Stylist: Carlyne Cerf de Dudzeele

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

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CLOSEUP • 13

knowledge – we have roles and placements to suit all expectations.

COVER INTERVIEW

14 • CLOSEUP

RITA ORA She is pop royalties finest, a global celebrity, blazing superstar and fashion icon. She is Rita Ora. The ultimate pop queen Rita Ora skyrocketed to stardom with her soulful voice and infectious energy creating pop hits that dip into the worlds of electronic and R&B music.

“MUSIC IS IN

everything I DO. MUSIC IS

the dream.”

CLOSEUP • 15

COVER INTERVIEW

B

orn in Pristina, Ora’s family moved to London where she was raised, she attended the Sylvia Young Theatre School and since then she has represented her birth country tirelessly throughout her career, working closely with refugee charities and becoming one of UNICEF UK’s ambassadors in 2019. “I think my parents really put that work ethic in me,” she notes.

“I was very loved; I was very looked after – I have such incredible parents. They never really shared any struggle with us, but it was all about respect, resilience and hard work. So, I would say I’m a bit of a workaholic, and I don’t think that’s a bad thing.”

Rita’s insatiable drive, she says, comes from a fear of going back to her life, pre-success, and carries the weight of responsibility for her family, “My parents never put the pressure on me; my childhood was a happy and amazing one.” The overwhelming need to achieve and protect her family comes from herself, “Some people may not know just how much of a sacrifice I’ve made just to make sure my loved ones are OK.” Making her debut in the late 2000’s, she quickly rose to prominence in February 2012 when she featured on DJ Fresh’s single, “Hot Right Now”, which reached number one in the UK earning the distinction of artist with the most U.K. number ones in 2012. Even after years of label issues threatened to halt her career, she remained on the charts and issued the triumphant sophomore

get emotional

“I HAD TO

ON THIS RECORD. IT WAS THE

best thing

FOR ME TO DO AS AN ARTIST.” effort Phoenix in 2018, followed by the Bang EP in 2021. Rita sat down with her manager Sarah Stennett and explains - “We wrote a 20-year business plan.” “Let’s keep growing this tree.

And it was just watering the tree more and more and more. It just started to really get bigger and bigger, to the point where I didn’t want to close the doors because why wouldn’t I venture out into these things? I felt I could really handle it.

There I was without a social life, but it was fine.”

After a switch to the BMG label, Ora returned in 2023 with another pop-kissed, dancefloorfriendly set, You & I. Her big break emerged when her debut studio album, Ora, released in August 2012, debuted at number one in the United

16 • CLOSEUP

Kingdom which led her to become the artist with the most number-one singles on the UK Singles Chart in 2012, with three singles reaching the top position. Ora is the very definition of a modern pop star – a “360-degree artist”, as she calls herself. Her TV career has seen her appearing as a judge on The Voice, presenting America’s Next Top Model, judging on The X Factor and The Masked Singer and voicing a cartoon bear in a Kung Fu Panda spin-off series for Netflix.

She has also appeared in 11 films, taking a recurring part in the erotic Fifty Shades franchise and starring roles opposite Michael Caine in Twist and the late Carrie Fisher in Wonderwell.

Yet, she insists, “music is in everything I do.

Music is the dream.” The rest, by implication, is just what a girl has to do to stay on top in an era when fans “definitely expect more” of their favourite stars. “If it’s not coming from you,” says Ora, “they’ll just get it elsewhere.”

Her life has changed irrevocably from the partygirl reputation that defined her twenties. Ora is now 32-years-old, a decade that arrives with hardearned wisdom, and she is a wife, married to the New Zealand filmmaker and actor Taika Waititi who brought us Jojo Rabbit and Marvel’s Thor series.

“I love him for the things he teaches me. It was exciting for him to experiment with some of his favourite films and just throw them into my music.”

She says she loved working with her husband because, “there’s never a dull moment. We vibe off each other. I would say how we got on so well in the beginning, before we decided to ruin it all and start dating,” she smiles. “But after five years of friendship we were like, ‘we think we’re ready to take it to the next level.’ But we were such good friends, we were worried we would ruin what we had. But it was amazing. I’ve never dated someone before who I was friends with first. It’s different because the stability’s there, the framework; it’s like a construction site – it’s like the whole thing has been built now so… I’ve had my fun; now I’m excited to move into the next stage of my life. I’m happy to discover the next chapter that I haven’t done: I haven’t been married, I haven’t settled down… until now.”

From loyal customer to Global Brand Partner, this September international fashion retailer Primark teamed up with Rita Ora to launch a new multi-season fashion collaboration. Growing up in Ladbroke Grove, Rita revealed that Primark Hammersmith played a significant part in her love of fashion from an early age. “Throughout my life, I have always wanted to look stylish, and when I was younger, I couldn’t have done that without Primark. I could always stretch my budget with so many great pieces and that is really when I learned how to get creative and play with fashion.”

Her style mixes high street and designer, preloved and new, to create a unique look which she describes as, “adventurous, risky and playful,” that is reflected in her first high street brand collaboration, Rita Ora X Primark.

The singer has spent two years dreaming up the versatile, affordable range that emits ‘90s grunge and her own brand of sex appeal. When asked how the collaboration came into place

Rita explains, “It was a combination of the friendship that I created with the CEOs and spontaneously being at the same restaurant.”

she had to renounce to ensure her survival in a career that has been repeatedly derailed. “It’s a very open record,” “It’s made to be like a diary.”

Codesigned by Primark and Ora, alongside emerging London-based designer Jawara Alleyne — and styled by Rita’s personal stylist, Pippa Atkinson — the wardrobe staples allow the singer’s fans to re-create her famous aesthetic on any budget. It’s no surprise that as soon as the first drop was manufactured, Ora began weaving items into her outfits, slowly building suspense and teasing her followers about what was to come. All the while, the accompanying campaign was being shot in Trellick Tower and around Golborne Road in West London, where Ora grew up. “Keeping it really real was all I cared about. That’s the reason I joined with Primark in the first place, so it only made sense to go back to where it all began,” she explains.

The release of You & I marks a moment where it is finally safe for her to take a risk. “I’d like to think Phoenix was a much more polished record, and while this is way more unpolished - I’m never not going to make pop songs - but this was a more natural, imperfect approach which is what I always wanted. “For me, this is my most artistic album yet. It’s not super overshadowed by big production or bold instrumentals, it’s definitely more story based. I had to get emotional on this record. It was the best thing for me to do as an artist. It had to be done for so many reasons. That’s what you do when you’re a songwriter and you’re aiming to write more honourable records: they will inevitably become a bit less hooky and anthemic, and I’m okay with that,” she explains. “I’ve never made an album like this before; I wasn’t trying to make a record that sounded like something else. Being involved in the song writing was eyeopening for me – I had no worries, no sense of judgement. I became way more confident. This is my more, sort-of artistic album, for sure.”

Honing in on her music career, a decade into the game of being one of the UK’s most visible and reliable big pop girls, a bold new chapter for the superstar unfolds on her third album and latest release of You & I, her most personal work to date.

This album marks a decisive turning point: for the first time, Ora has a hand in her own lyrics, and in doing so reclaims her own narrative – something

www.primark.com

CLOSEUP • 17

2 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

BONANZA We’re so excited to celebrate our dental clinic’s two-year anniversary! Thank you all for the love and support we’ve received over the past two years!

Dentozen, our Luxury Dental and Skin Retreat, has earned a special place in the hearts of our local community since its opening two years ago. This is because we focus on providing exceptional customer service and paying attention to every detail.

Dr. Neha Patel, our clinical director, says, “I want to change the way people see dentistry.

Your smile can greatly affect how you carry yourself, so it’s no surprise that many seek treatments to enhance their smiles and skin.”

At Dentozen, we blend the comfort and pampering of a retreat with the precision and performance of a cutting-edge dental clinic. We continue to strengthen our excellent reputation with over 160 fivestar Google reviews.

“I WANT TO CHANGE THE WAY PEOPLE SEE DENTISTRY.

Your smile can greatly affect how you carry yourself,

SO IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT MANY SEEK TREATMENTS TO ENHANCE THEIR SMILES AND SKIN.”

Our team of experienced dental professionals prioritise the patient’s needs in the world of cosmetic dentistry. They take the time to understand not only the dental and aesthetic concerns but also the emotional aspects to provide the best clinical experience.

Dr. Neha’s 17 years of experience and professional demeanour, coupled with the relaxing ambiance of our retreat, instantly put nervous patients at ease.

We offer free Invisalign consultations, which are incredibly popular among all age groups. Dr. Neha, an accredited Gold provider, has treated thousands of patients with Invisalign, customising treatment plans to meet their desires and deliver impressive results. Invisalign clear aligners are a hassle-free way to transform your smile, offering both convenience and comfort.

As a certified Professional tooth whitening centre, we proudly use ‘Enlighten,’ the market leader in whitening. Enlighten can whiten teeth by up to 16 shades with guaranteed results. Dr. Patel is also an expert in composite bonding, veneers, and whitening, making her a leader in the world of cosmetic dentistry. She provides free smile consultations, listens to patients’ concerns, and designs the perfect smile for them.

In our two years, we’ve welcomed many patients seeking General Private Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Orthodontics, Periodontics, Endodontics, Jaw pain relief, hygiene, air flow treatments, and emergency care.

Dentozen is open seven days a week, and we offer emergency appointments to our patients, ensuring their dental needs are met promptly. Due to this Dentozen is highly recommended among the neighbourhood and people have been seen bringing and recommending it to their family and friends after their appointment.

£100 off Teeth Whitening Enlightening Treatment Simply tear this voucher and bring it to the dental practice by 30th December and get £100 off teeth whitening treatment.

Only 1 voucher can be used per person.

FIND US Dentozen Dental and Skin Retreat 12 Queen Annes Place EN1 2PT 020 3695 2400

LUXURY DENTAL & SKIN RETREAT Dentozen is Enfield’s most luxurious dental and skin retreat, open seven days a week.

Find Us Dentozen Dental and Skin Retreat 12 Queen Annes Place EN1 2PT 020 3695 2400 • www.dentozen.co.uk info@dentozen.co.uk • @dentozen.london

BEAUTY

YSL BYREDO Eyeshadow Palette Space NK £58

Les 4 Ombres Eyeshadow Palette CHANEL £51

Endless Nights Eyeshadow Palette NARS £52

EYES TO Mesmerise

Get ready to slay the season with these versatile eyeshadow palettes, from timeless everyday looks to stunning night-out glam, these warm winter shades have got you covered for any occasion.

All About Shadow Clinique £39

YSL Colour Clutch Fenwick £100

Smokey Eye Brick Victoria Beckham Beauty £54

20 • CLOSEUP

Super Nudes Easy Palette Charlotte Tilbury £47

Bare Nude Eyeshadow Palette Bobbi Brown £42

MAC Unfiltered Nudes Palette John Lewis £44

Advanced Aesthetics Treatments SPMU Brow and Lips Laser Hair Removal With more than 7 years of experience, Prisse aesthetics clinic have been able to create bespoke packages, tailored to each individual, Your body is unique and will be treated as such.

07399 559755 @prisseaesthetics Prisse Aesthetics www.prisse-aesthetics-clinic.co.uk North London Barnet

O N

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DR. KATE AESTHETICS

Call us to claim your complimentary Observ520 Skin Analysis Now offering complimentary skin analysis with the state-of-the-art Observe520x machine.

This enables us to have a detailed understanding of your skin and allows us to create a bespoke treatment plan.

Quote ‘CLOSE UP SKIN ANALYSIS’ when booking this in.

Welcome to Dr Kate Aesthetics Dr. Kate Aesthetics was founded by Dr. Kate Carr MBChB, MRCP, MRCGP, with the ultimate aim of providing safe and effective medical aesthetic treatments to target a range of concerns and enhance your appearance in a natural way with individualised treatment plans. Dr. Kate is a fully qualified medical doctor. She has been a doctor since 2003 and working in medical aesthetics since 2008.

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108 Cockfosters Rd, Barnet EN4 0DP @drkateaestheticsldn

Dr Kate Aesthetics

hello@drkateaesthetics.co.uk

020 8419 8919

www.drkateaesthetics.co.uk

HEALTH

EMBRACING FESTIVE

FEASTS Discover how to thrive in winter with health tips, seasonal delights, and mindful living.

WINTER WORKOUT

HEALTHY INDULGENCES

WINTER WELLNESS

Buddy Up for Accountability

The Power of Moderation

Embrace Hygge for Mental Wellness

Maintaining motivation during the winter can be challenging. Consider teaming up with a workout buddy to stay accountable and make exercise more enjoyable. Whether it's a friend, family member, or a fitness class, having someone to exercise with can provide the following benefits:

During the festive season, it's common to encounter an abundance of delicious, yet calorie-laden treats.

Instead of avoiding them altogether, practice moderation. Here's how you can do it:

Hygge (pronounced "hoo-gah") is a Danish concept that celebrates cosiness, comfort, and the simple pleasures in life. It's an excellent approach to promote mental wellness during the winter. Here's how you can embrace hygge:

Accountability: When you know someone is counting on you to show up for a workout, you're more likely to stay committed to your fitness routine.

Friendly Competition: Friendly competition can add an extra layer of motivation. Challenge your workout partner to a minirace or see who can complete a certain exercise routine faster.

Social Interaction: Winter can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation. Exercising with a friend can provide a social outlet and improve your mood.

Variety: Your workout partner might introduce you to new exercises and routines, keeping your workouts fresh and exciting.

24 • CLOSEUP

Savour Every Bite: Slow down and fully enjoy each bite of your favourite festive treats. This can help you feel satisfied with smaller portions.

Portion Control: Use smaller plates and utensils to control portion sizes. Limit yourself to a small piece or a taste of indulgent dishes.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking water before and during holiday gatherings can help you feel full and prevent overeating.

Plan Healthy Alternatives: Bring or prepare healthier versions of holiday dishes to gatherings. For example, offer a fruit salad or vegetable platter alongside the traditional options.

Mindful Indulgence: Understand that it's okay to indulge occasionally. The key is to do it mindfully and not let guilt overshadow the joy of the season.

Create a Cosy Environment: Make your home a warm and inviting space.

Light candles, use soft blankets, and add warm, soft colours to your decor. A comfortable environment can improve your mood and reduce stress.

Practice Mindfulness: Take time to be fully present in the moment. Enjoy a warm cup of tea or hot chocolate, read a good book, or have a heartfelt conversation with a friend or family member.

Prioritise Self-Care: Pay attention to your self-care routines. Take soothing baths, engage in relaxation exercises, and treat yourself to simple pleasures that make you feel good.

Find Joy in the Ordinary: Hygge is about finding happiness in everyday moments. Whether it's the crackling sound of a fireplace, a hearty homemade meal, or a leisurely walk in the winter air, savour the simple joys.

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EDITORIAL

HOW TO KEEP

BAD BREATH AT BAY The most common causes of bad breath are poor oral hygiene routines, dehydration, eating & drinking strong smelling foods/ liquids and a dry mouth. A buildup of sulphur-producing bacteria in the mouth through these ways will result in foul smelling breath.

Using tools to prevent mouth breathing at night and encourage nasal breathing such as nasal decongestants and sprays can help improve bad breath as this is what leads to a dry mouth. Other dental tools such as a tongue scraper prevents bacteria build up and keeps your tongue clean.

Most importantly, ensuring that a good level of oral hygiene is maintained is crucial to avoid bad smelling breath. This includes brushing for the recommended time twice a day, regular flossing, and use of mouth wash. Staying hydrated to decrease the chances of a dry mouth is encouraged. As well as a healthy, well balance diet, avoiding overconsumption of food that causes bad breath such as garlic, onions, fish. Also ensure you are changing your manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every 3 to 4 months.

Quick fixes include brushing your teeth 30- 60 minutes after eating – brushing any time sooner than this can be detrimental to your dental health as any acids or sugars are brushed further into the teeth and gums, causing potential damage such as tooth decay. And briefly chewing a sugar free gum or mint will offer immediate relief. Rinsing with warm water with salt or apple cider vinegar can help as well as breath spray.

If bad breath persists and extends long after the morning for a number of weeks, this could be a sign of health issues that need medical attention such as problems with your teeth or gums that could be gum disease, cavities and infections. Regular trips to the dentist can prevent issues from going unnoticed and prevent long term bad breath.

Dr Richard Marques BDS, Doctor Richard London www.doctorrichardlondon.com

26 • CLOSEUP

CLOSEUP • 27

BEAUTY

HOW TO LOOK AFTER

Your Winter Skin The winter brings harsh cold, stronger winds, rain, hail, snow, and more dramatic changes in temperature when moving between outdoor and indoor spaces. All this has an impact on the skin and how easy it finds to keep itself healthy and hydrated.

As an aesthetician, this is something I see every year. Here are my top tips for how to look after your winter skin.

Hydrate. It’s harder to forget to drink water when you’re hot and sweaty because it’s 29 degrees outside. When it gets to wintertime, try to make sure you are drinking plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated inside out.

Moisturise. Use a rich, hydrating moisturiser

regularly, especially after washing or bathing. Cooler temperatures dry out the skin, so this is essential.

Steaming. Using steam on your face

in the winter is more than a nice blast of warmth! It’s cleansing, improves circulation, releases trapped sebum, hydrates, and helps your skin better absorb skin care products.

I think it’s a great treatment for wintertime.

If you don’t already,

start using a retinol.

Sun cream. Just because it’s not summer doesn’t mean

you should keep your sun cream on the shelf! UV rays penetrate clouds easily, so make sure you are using an SPF throughout the winter months. I always recommend SPF 50 or more.

Staying active. It’s important to keep exercising no

matter the weather. Exercising forces your bloody to pump round the body improving circulation which is beneficial for the skin.

Exfoliating

in the winter not only helps remove dead skin cells but also improves how deeply moisturisers can penetrate the skin. If you’re looking for treatments you can have, our clients are loving the Pumpkin Facial Peel at the moment. It’s a powerful manual, chemical and enzymatic exfoliating treatment to address dull and congested skin.

I always say winter is the best time to start using a retinol because it helps increase your skin cell turnover and really closes and reduces those pores. It also helps with pigmentation and produces collagen for you.

I recommend the OBAGI Retinol 1.0 cream.

Another treatment I’d recommend is red light therapy. Most importantly, It’s an excellent healer for the sun damaged skin we get in the summer. It’s also helpful for improving facial texture, reducing wrinkles, fine lines and age spots.

Eating well. It’s easier in the summer to eat a rainbow diet, try to ensure you bring colourful eating into the winter times too with plenty of vegetables, supporting healthy skin from the inside out.

Remember that good skin takes commitment, not a miracle. So stay consistent, even

during winter months when work ramps up and social engagements are a plenty!

Sadaf Jaffari is a Celebrity and Consultant Aesthetician, go to @Sadaf_Jaffari to find out more.

THE VANITY A E S T H E T I C S

The Vanity is a nurse led; advanced medical aesthetics clinic based in North London.

We specialise in subtle enhancements to complement your natural beauty, achieving a rejuvenated and refreshed look. We believe that your unique features and raw beauty should be accentuated, not altered.

With years of experience within the aesthetics sector, we are committed to staying at the forefront of the industry. Whether it is to smooth out unwanted bumps in the nose bridge or destroying dark, tired eyes with Hyaluronic Acid. We aim to work with you, consulting and advising on the most suitable and effective non-surgical treatments, resulting in a tailored outcome personal to you.

Dermal Fillers • Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Anti-Wrinkle Injections • Fat Dissolving Skin Boosters • Microneedling If you would like to book a treatment, please get in touch to discuss your requirements. @thevanityaestheticsx 07506 867549

EDITORIAL

THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS!

Get ready to unwrap 12, 24 or even 25 days of bliss. Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, we’ve got the inside scoop on the calendar that’s going to make your holiday season sparkle brighter than a Christmas tree.

Liberty Beauty The 2023 Liberty Advent Calendar is a beauty lover’s fantasy come to life. It’s packed with 29 products from Liberty’s beauty halls, and a whopping 20 of them are full-sized. We’re talking Rose Inc, Sunday Riley, Barbara Sturm, Surratt, and more – brands that are worth their weight in gold.

Price: £250 Worth: £1043 www.libertylondon.com

Sephora Beauty Sephora finally landed in the UK this year giving beauty junkies the ultimate treat! And then they throw in a Sephora Favourites calendar. This is a treasure trove of 36 products from brands like Aromatherapy Associates, Glow Recipe, and more. Behind those 24 doors, you’ll find full-sized goodies and beauty wonders galore.

Price: £189 Worth: £1045 www.sephora.co.uk

Elemis Prepare to pamper yourself silly with the Elemis Advent Calendar 2023. Inside this beautifully British red post box, you’ll find Elemis’ bestsellers like Pro-Collagen and Superfood, plus crowd-pleasers like the Papaya Enzyme Peel. There’s even a full-sized pot of their iconic Pro-Collagen Marine Cream. Get ready to glow!

Price: £189 Worth: £551 uk.elemis.com

Papier

Cheesegeek Before you ask how on earth you’re going to make a month’s worth of cheese stay fresh until Christmas Day, Cheesegeek has thought of that. Back for another year of dairy, cracker and condiment-related fun, this year’s countdown will be dispatched in three separate boxes so your fridge will never be too full with treats you can’t yet open.

Price: £150 Worth: Not stated

There are some who will laugh at the concept of a stationery-based Advent calendar.

And yet others will think it’s the best idea ever conceived of.

Reader, it is these people you should be gifting this Papier gift set. Twenty-four doors; 24 things, including two notebooks and a washi tape.

Price: £120 Worth: £160 www.papier.com

www.thecheesegeek.com

Lush You may wonder who could possibly need 25 bath bombs and assorted products, but you must remember, you are not your girlfriend, and if she says she wants a coterie of festive shaped bath buddies, then that is what she needs.

Price: £125 Worth: Not stated www.lush.com

Brewdog Get the beers in! Or, at least, get them in very soon, when BrewDog’s new Advent calendar becomes available to buy. There’s little in the way of information just yet but if last year’s encyclopaedia of classics, new favourites and absolute curveballs are anything to go by, the beer drinker in your life is in for a romp.

Price: £49.95 Worth: Not stated

Abbott Lyon The jewellery Advent calendar goes from strength to strength with every Christmas that passes, and the destination for personalised necklaces, Abbott Lyon, is tempting us with its take on the trend. Even the packaging is personalised in this collection of silver or gold, but the real treasures lie within: an initial pendant and birthstone ring, necklace and earrings will all feature in the 12-day countdown.

Price: £249 Worth: £450 www.abbottlyon.com

www.brewdog.com

Martha Brook Martha Brook knows its audience: its 24 days of stationery gifts are presented in a neat miniature bookshelf of rich, gold-foiled blues and plums. A satisfying lineup for anyone who prefers to put pen to paper, this selection of pens, correspondence cards and personalised paper goods is an exquisite choice.

Price: £99 Worth: Not stated www.marthabrook.com

A BIT OF R&R REDUNDANCY & ROMANCE

Yet another tale of unexpected turns for Big Mouth

“What’s your favourite packets of crisps?” We are in deep future planning when someone asks this simple question.

“What?” you ask, bemused. Yes, I have confused you once again. Don’t worry, I’ve confused myself. A week from hell has projected me into a parallel universe where I think I may have a boyfriend for Christmas. “SHUT UP!” you scream at the page.

“I KNOW!” I scream back. That’s why me and you are friends.

Let’s start from the beginning. This month I decided to delete my dating apps. As Ava Hirons said, “He looks like he snuck on earth.” Preach sister. I’m pretty sure Men in Black were onto something. They must be aliens in human form.

I resigned myself to the idea that I would indeed be single into 2024 and I was ok with that. I was energised to focus on the Big Mouth Podcast, the script writing as well as giving my career the focus it deserved without the persistent interruptions from annoying men wasting my time.

The rest of 2023, at least, is all about me and the manifestation of my linear success.

And then it came tumbling down like a game of Jenga.

By 11.30am I wiped my tears and I carried on. Now, to work out plans B to Z. By 11.45am, I had a lunch meeting booked for the following day to discuss a new role. My fight or flight had kicked in and I was in mortal combat. I was in a fight for survival mode. I had no choice. I cried again, this time, relieved but also, I’d impressed myself. I gave myself a big pat on the back that day, followed by a dessert, because, why not. It was earned. At least I was earning something!

The following day, I put my big girl pants on and went into the meeting with the inherent belief that they would be lucky to have me. The last year had really taught me that I can do anything so long as my heart was in it and I believed in myself.

I walked out of that meeting with a job offer and the start of an incredible new journey in my career that will propel me closer to my goals quicker than I’d ever imagined.

Now I’m chuckling along with Big Man. I was thrown out of my comfort zone so I would then have to push myself into new realms of possibilities.

Woody Allen, and now Khloe Kardashian, both famously said “if you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans.” Well, he sure showed me. A few days into this new month, new me, more money delusion, I was made redundant. My guy in the sky really is testing me as of late but I must believe there’s a reason for it.

From 11am that morning, life derailed. I was hereby diverted from my current course. Destination unknown.

What this also reminded me was that I put too much importance on work without realising how much of my own perceived value came from my work success. I am more than my career. I am more than the money I make. More of my own value should come from the attributes of who I am, which, at their core, is a good person, a loving person, an empathic, sometimes overemotional, outspoken, strong willed and morally sound human. I am proud of the person I am becoming every day. If only I loved myself this way when I was younger, I could’ve challenged the world and won.

11.15am, I came off the call and I sobbed. Not before I laughed at that meme of the little guy stopped by predator hunters who screamed out “I’m gonna lose me job.” We must laugh in the face of adversity. That lasted all of 3 minutes until I had my ‘menty b’ that we are currently in a ‘cozzie livs’ and I’m now jobless. I sat with my head in my hands and sobbed. The stark realisation that again, I was on my own and had to find my way. There was no shoulder to cry on. I’m hyper independent remember, so I would never ask for help, even in situations like this.

But there’s two parts to this story if this wasn’t chaotic enough. At this point, Big Man thinks I’m hilarious. He heard me vehemently say I am not interested in meeting anyone. I cut myself off from the digital dating world. Unless I fancied getting chatted up by a scaffolder or found myself sitting at a bar on my own, my chances of meeting someone were slim, although we can always count on the randoms in the street to give it a good go. If the mountain won’t come to Muhammad, then Muhammad must go to the mountain.

32 • CLOSEUP

In yet another bizarre turn of events, my friend Steph is the aforementioned Muhammad, I am indeed, the mountain… feeling like it too after those two desserts I ate. Saturday night, the girls and gay are at mine, we’ve just finished filming the last episode of series 1 and I’m drunk from the shots of Ouzo, whilst dressed in an inflatable Santa Claus outfit and James is dressed as an elf (don’t ask, just tune in).

Steph bounces through the door to tell me she has set me up with someone. Not the news I wanted to hear really. She proceeds to show me a picture.

This one is surprisingly delightful.

He also receives rave reviews from everyone in the room. It seems I am the only person who does not know this man. She’s already laid the groundwork and he is interested. Must’ve been the 8 shots of Ouzo burning by oesophagus that made me so agreeable to the set up. She gave him my number. He added me on Instagram. Usually, the thought of waiting for a man to text fills me with dread but this time, I was surprisingly calm.

“I KNOW IT’S ONLY BEEN TWO MINUTES IN THE GRAND SCHEME OF LIFE AND TIME, BUT IT AMAZES ME HOW

someone can come into your life and can either elevate it or turn it upside down.”

Sunday day had been and gone and it was early evening when I received a message. From the moment we started speaking, I felt an instant pull, something I haven’t felt in a very long time. There was no trepidation, no hesitation, and no façade. I was myself with a ‘like me or leave me attitude’.

peg fits? We’ve been inseparable since. We speak for hours, I enjoy every minute I spend with him.

He has allowed me to romanticise life again. I know it’s only been two minutes in the grand scheme of life and time, but it amazes me how someone can come into your life and can either elevate it or turn it upside down. Let’s just hope he’s not an assassin or drug-lord, because I will throw a hissy fit.

I’m sure more updates will come, hopefully he’s not here today, gone tomorrow; he’s already surpassed the three-hour pitch time. I’ll leave you with two quotes to end this chaotic period in my MONTH! “Unexpected events can set you back or set you up. It’s all a matter of – Perspective”. – Mary Anne Radmacher “The best kinds of relationships begin unexpectedly. When you get the astonished feeling everything happens so suddenly.

That’s why you don’t look for love.

It comes to you just at the right time; the time you never thought it would have.” – The Internet.

Big Mouth xx

That evening, we decided to go for a drink. Usually, I would put him in a bucket with the guy who gaslit me into thinking his wedding ring was not a wedding ring and built like an upside-down triangle standing solidly 4 inches shorter than what he said he was, also, just to close off on that chapter, he was indeed in a long term committed relationship which he still denied!

I did not put him in the creep bucket. I walked in to see him smiling at the bar and I felt at ease, like I’d known him my whole life. We sat and talked for hours, not a moments silence, no nerves, no pomp or unease. It was pure.

In those 3 hours, he was my soul food.

Something has clicked in me. My body is less tense, my face relaxed, my stresses are small because my happiness feels so big. Is this what it feels like to meet someone whose

CLOSEUP • 33

LIVING

Bespoke Stripe Crackers Colours Of Arley £100

Set of 4 Lurik Wine Glasses La Redoute £21

Camille Set of 6 Dessert Plates Sazy £21

Happy

HOSTING Elevate your hosting game with this selection of quaint and quirky dining essentials, featuring festive accents adding a dash of joy!

Set of 2 Antoinette Scalloped Edge Linen Napkins Le Redoute £26

ANYDAY Stripe Mug John Lewis £3.50

2-pack Metal Napkin Rings H&M £10.99

Ambre Scented Candle DIPTYQUE £77

Bordallo Pinheiro Pitcher Mytheresa £66

34 • CLOSEUP

H&M Stainless Steel Cutlery Set Ralph Lauren Home £80

Captivating Scents, Crafted in Durham.

Captivating Scents, Crafted in Durham.

Unwind in your personal sanctuary with our handcrafted artisan candles, botanical wax melts, reed diffusers Unwind andin aromatic your personal incense. sanctuary with our artisan candles, Allhandcrafted sourced with exquisite localbotanical wax melts, ingredients, reed diffusers slowand poured aromatic in small incense. All sourced batches with exquisite to ensure local the finest ingredients, quality.slow poured in small batches to ensure the finest quality.

Embrace the festive season with our new Christmas Embrace collection, Autumn with discover more our new collection, discover more @aroma.durham@aroma.durham www.aromadurham.co.uk www.aromadurham.co.uk

Elevate your mood and your space with Uplift Your Mood Scents. We're passionate about harnessing the mood-transforming potential of fragrances. Experience the art of self-care through our meticulously hand-poured home fragrances, lovingly crafted in the UK with natural wax. We're eco-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free, offering cleanburning, long-lasting scents. Embrace the power of scents for a happier, harmonious life.

www.upliftyourmood.co.uk

@upliftyourmoodscents

LIVING

Pulse Tealight Holder Zaha Hadid Design £49

Cox & Cox

Winter Fairytale Ribbed Teardrop Bauble John Lewis £8 Cotton Snowflake Christmas Tea Towel The Range £7.99

Cold as

ICE

Classic winter whites and cool blue hues are the perfect combination to create your very own winter wonderland at home this winter. Explore our top picks to embrace this snowy Scandi look and inject some extra magic into your space this festive season.

Blueberry Christmas Wreath Ella James £65

Mulberry Silk Blue Pillowcases Soak&Sleep £60 Iridescent Polar Bear Ornament Liberty £8.95

Lucetta Glass Table Lamp Habitat £34

Cut Martini Glass Set of 2 Dartington Crystal £55

Canal House Large Bode Living £27.50

36 • CLOSEUP

Pluto Snowflake Candle Holder Fenwick £10

COCKFOSTERS SHOWROOM NOW OPEN

INDUSTRY LEADERS

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Brand new showroom now open Exclusive selection of floor and wall tiles Stunning range of outdoor tiles Over thousands of styles Free nationwide delivery Bespoke worktops & sinks 27 CockfostersRoad, Station Parade EN4 0DW

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0208 882 400037 CLOSEUP •

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

HANDY GLOW

WINTER WARMER

NIGHT GLIMMER

A hand-made life-sized realistically shaped OK candle. Adding a contemporary style to your living space, and giving you a daily reminder that everything is OK.

Wrap yourself in warmth and comfort with this soft throw. It is the ideal staple for the sofa and for snuggling up on chilly nights!

A piece of art all day and then like magic, this bubble lamp becomes a head turning light sculpture at night. Adding a touch of glow and an artistic style to your room.

OK CandleHand, £40 www.fenwick.co.uk

Throw, £22.99 www.homesense.com

Habitat Bubble Table Lamp, £37 www.habitat.co.uk

COSY CUPPA

SLEEPING BEAUTY

FOR FOODIES

Is it even the start of Christmas without a festive mug? Enjoy a beverage of your choice in this novelty Christmas mug. It makes for the perfect early gift to yourself or as a great Christmas gift.

Beauty sleep has never looked so good with this 100% pure silk eye mask and scrunchie set. Transform your night-time ritual into ultimate chic luxury.

Start the day off with a splash using this Pacific Cereal Bowl, inspired by ocean waves it makes the perfect statement in your living space with a pop of fun.

Alphabet Mug, £3.50 www.bmstores.co.uk

Mayfair Beauty Sleepover Set, £69 www.selfridges.com

Cereal Bowl, £14 www.royaldoulton.com

IN THE BAG

SOFT SERENITY

SELFIE SLAY

Elevate your accessory wardrobe with the Marc Jacobs bucket bag, the perfect blend of chic and practicality.

Say hello to soft hands and feet with this shea butter duo. As the colder months approach this is the ultimate staple for your handbag.

Take your selfie game to the next level with this clip-on ring light. Easy to attach to any smartphone and perfect for on the go lighting!

Marc Jacobs The Bucket, £425 www.fenwick.co.uk

L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand & Foot, £32 www.marksandspencer.com

Clip-on LED Ring Light, £18.99 www.essentialphoto.co.uk

38 • CLOSEUP

Dreamed up by mother-daughter duo Shadene and Michaela, Beauri Interiors brings a timeless palette and elegant sophistication together for home accents worthy of a double take. Inspired

by Shadene’s sons Beau, River and Cree, Beauri is recognised for adding a playful edge to classic homeware accessories. Its signature neutral tones are punctuated by earthy hues and clean, white details to elevate homes of all styles while enhancing their one-of-a-kind characters.

Shadene has curated the Beauri collection in the tranquil Kent countryside. Since buying her first house, Shadene has loved styling every inch of her home – and Beauri Interiors will inspire you to do the same.

If there’s one thing the last two years have taught us, it’s that our home is our haven when the outside world becomes too demanding.

Let’s make sure your home isn’t only your safe place, but your happy place too.

CLOSEUP • 39 www.beauriinteriors.co.uk

@beauriinteriors

HOT

TOPIC SCENT

BEAUTY

FROM HEAVEN

BONANZA

W7’s 2023 Advent Calendar Beauty Blast is filled with a selection of the most loved and talked about products to grace your face this Christmas. From the key Blending Sponge and Reusable Remover Cookie to the legendary Honolulu Bronzer and fan favourite Lip Twister’s, there is something for everyone. This ideal advent of 24 spectacular cosmetic treats for December also includes the After Glow Highlighter, King Kohl Eyeliner, Banana Dreams Powder, Ladybird Blusher and Clear Gloss, among other hero products.

Each individual box within the Beauty Blast Advent Calendar is made from cardboard boxes supporting W7’s sustainable mission to reduce the use and wastage of single-use plastics.

Imagine the perfect Christmas gift – the Chanel N°5 gift set. It combines the N°5 Eau de Parfum 50ml with the N°5 The Body Oil 100ml. This exclusive set presents the body oil in a bottle that evokes the iconic N°5 fragrance.

It’s the ultimate luxury gift for the holiday season!

No5, £136 www.chanel.com

Beauty Blast, £19.95 www.w7makeup.co.uk

T 50 CEN UR .

TH E FI NA L LA P TO YI N’ TR E DI OR CH RI T GE R TE LA S AR – 20 YE

EMBRA

CE

T H E F LA M E

Recognized as one of the most talented and prolific music artists of his time the Grammy Award winner 50 cent rose to fame with his record-shattering debut album Get Rich or Die Tryin’ and has since sold more than 30 million albums worldwide. Taking over London’s O2 and Wembley arena this November, he will be performing with special guest Busta Rhymes and Jeremih.

An independent British brand creating a compelling fusion of fragrance and aesthetics. Inspired by all things quintessentially British, from wild country gardens to refined gentlemen’s clubs of yesteryear, imbued with timeless London architecture. Try the signature scents like; Mayfair Affair, Hyde in the Park, Turnagain Lane, and Whitehall Gardens.

Purchase tickets at www.shop.axs.co.uk

www.finescents.co.uk

40 • CLOSEUP

E D 10 CO ER FF SE K O U N 0% I 1 THFOR

Brighten your home with a Thinker Lamp Introducing the Thinker Lamp, a masterpiece that combines art and illumination. Crafted with precision and bathed in a luxurious finish, this lamp exudes sophistication and style. Inspired by "The Thinker" sculpture, it not only lights up your space but also sparks creativity and contemplation.

thethinkerlamps.com

by The Liink Group

BALLOONS

Private dining

Branding

Themes

Baby showers

Personalisation

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Ballrooms

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Venue Hire

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theliinkgroup

07939 242 148

theliinkgroup 42 • CLOSEUP

www.theliinkgroup.com

F F on O cti de % ele co p 10 is s the eu s th ith lo C w

Enhanced by Nature LTD offer a wide range of wax melts and home fragrance.

Below is a selection of our Winter Range.

Our Winter Wonderland will be launched on Saturday 28th October and will have over 20 scents that will bring warmth and Christmas cheer to any wax warmer.

All products are available at www.enhancedbynatureltd.co.uk or follow our latest creations on Enhanced by Nature LTD

@ebnltd_wax_melts

@enhancedbynatureltd

We specialise in bespoke wedding invitations and stationery, based in South Wales & Bristol and we deliver world-wide!

Our aim is to take the stress away so you can sit back & relax! We will tailor everything to suit your vision and create designs that are unique to you.

07498 477 426 sinta.design

hello@sinta.design

sinta.designs

facebook.com/sintadesignsltd CLOSEUP • 43

44 • CLOSEUP

FOOD Supplement

CLOSEUP • 45

r as de m ! or st ay e- ri d Pr Ch s to ur ke yo ba

ASTROLOGY • TAROT • RITUAL • CEREMONY JOURNEY WiTH THE COSMOS & DANCE TO THE RHYTHM OF EARTH'S SEASONS

Bespoke Sugar Cookies Cupcakes | Tray Bakes Brownies | Cakes

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Amaze your friends and family with a unique gift from Cocoa & Paper. The possibilities are endless with what we can do!

Whether you need something for a birthday or a just to say chocolate, Cocoa & Paper have you covered. Our seasonal collections is one you do not want to miss, from our best-selling hot chocolate spoons, to lollipops and personalised slabs, there’s something for everyone.

46 • CLOSEUP

Use code CLOSEUP15 for 15% off your order Valid until 2nd December 2023

Find the perfect cake to celebrate your special occasion from one of the most adored family run cake shops, delivering across most of London and parts of Hertfordshire, Middlesex and Buckinghamshire.

0203 375 3310

www.amysbakehouse.co.uk @amysbakehousee amys.bakehouse

CLOSEUP • 47

FOOD

Blueberry, ginger & banana

LOAF

A delicious variation on a classic banana bread recipe, with a bit of warming stem ginger for extra flavour.

Serves 10 Prep 20 mins Cook 1 hr 5 mins

Ingredients 80g (about 4 pieces) stem ginger, plus 2 tbsp syrup • 220g plain flour • ¼ tsp sea salt flakes • 160g dark brown soft sugar • 3 tsp baking powder • 3 ripe bananas • 225g pack No.1 Speciality Blueberries • 100ml natural yogurt • 1 British Blacktail Free Range Medium Egg • 1 tbsp demerara sugar

Method Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4 and line a 900g loaf tin with baking parchment. Thinly slice the stem ginger.

Put the flour, salt, sugar and baking powder in a large mixing bowl, briefly mix to combine, then set aside. Mash the bananas in a separate mixing bowl.

Add the stem ginger and its syrup, blueberries (reserving a handful for the top), yogurt and egg. Using a fork, mix together all the wet ingredients until well combined.

Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and gradually tip the wet mixture into the well. Briefly incorporate the wet mix into the dry then, when just combined, transfer to the prepared tin. Scatter the reserved blueberries over the top, followed by the demerara sugar Bake for 55 minutes–1 hour 5 minutes, or until golden and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Set aside for 20 minutes, then remove from the tin and cool completely on a cooling rack before slicing.

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

48 • CLOSEUP

L’ARTE

SEAFOOD & GRILL

CHRISTMAS PA RT Y ME N U £38.00 per head

S TA RT E R S

MAINS

Classic Fried Calamari Deep fried calamari, served with lemon and tartar sauce

Traditional Roast Turkey with all the Trimmings

Chefs Soup of the Day V Fresh Pan Fried King Prawns With garlic and chilli Avocado and Fresh Crab Tartare Served with L’arte rose sauce Homemade L’arte Parmigiana V Baked aubergine with melted mozzarella, fresh basil and tomato sauce, with a touch of parmesan cheese

Served with mash potato, red cabbage and red berry compot Roasted Scottish Salmon Fillet pickled beetroot and walnut sauce Baked Cod Fillet With Italian bean stew and isolana sauce Leo’s Risotto Served with butternut squash, caramalised onions and soft goat’s cheese Homemade Black Ink Linguine Served with cherry tomatoes, chilli, fresh crab meat and prawns

S I DE S

DE S S E RT S

Roasted Honey Root Vegetables 4.5

Homemade Traditional Tiramisu

Sautéed Brussels 4.5

Sponge cake with lemon juice, custard and lemon peel

Mixed Steamed Veg 4.5

Traditional Italian Pandoro Served with a mascarpone sauce

Fries 4.5

Valrhona Tripple Chocolate Cookie With guanaja dark chocolate, bahibé milk chocolate and dulcey Valrhona chocolate mouse A 12.5% service charge will be applied.

Leo and Alberto, originally from Kosovo, relocated to Florence, Italy when Leo was 6 and Alberto was 3. Leo honed his culinary expertise in Florence, while Alberto excelled in managing the front of house operations in various restaurants. Their journey led them to open their first flagship store, L’arte, in Cockfosters.

Visit us at 3 Station Parade, Cockfosters, EN4 0DL Stay Connected For general and Christmas bookings, scan the QR code www.larterestaurant.com 020 8440 0855 Follow us on @larte.restaurant.

CLOSEUP • 49

A FUSION BETWEEN AUTHENTIC TURKISH CUISINE AND MEDITERRANEAN FLAVOURS, WITH A UNIQUE DÉCOR USING IT’S INSPIRATION FROM THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE. 98 COCKFOSTERS RD, EN4 0DP

020 3417 5270 WWW.DERALIYE.COM

50 • CLOSEUP

A dining experience for the senses Vibrant art & beautiful Italian cuisine Private area available to hire Seating up to 40 people 020 3150 4070 21-22 Station Parade, Cockfosters, London, EN4 ODW www.pepos.co.uk

FOOD

Cook’s tip To really evoke that feeling of snuggling around a campfire and toasting marshmallows, try using a blowtorch to gently toast the marshmallow that is peeking out the sides of the s’mores until golden brown.

GINGERBREAD s’more biscuits

S’mores are the perfect campfire treat, so Martha Collison’s gingerbreadinspired sandwiches will warm you on the inside as you sit by the fire, or simply remind you of bonfire antics enjoyed with a cup of tea in the comfort of your own home.

Makes 25 Prep 30 mins Cook 14 mins

Ingredients For the biscuits 75g butter • 125g dark brown soft sugar • 75g golden syrup • 200g plain flour • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 2 tsp ground ginger • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg For the filling 120g caster sugar • 80g golden syrup • 2 British Blacktail Large Free Range Egg whites • ½ tsp vanilla extract • 100g dark chocolate, melted

52 • CLOSEUP

Method Heat the butter, dark brown sugar and golden syrup in a saucepan until the butter has melted and the mixture is bubbling.

Combine the flour, bicarbonate of soda and spices in a large mixing bowl and make a well in the centre. Pour the wet ingredients into the well.

Mix the ingredients together using a wooden spoon until a thick dough comes together. As soon as it becomes smooth stop stirring or your biscuits will become tough. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to cool.

Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4 and line 2 baking sheets with baking parchment. Roll out the biscuit dough to the thickness of a £1 coin and then slice into 50 even-sized rectangles. Arrange on the baking trays and bake for 14-15 minutes or until golden brown round the edges, swapping the trays over for the last few minutes. Allow to cool completely.

To make the filling, place the sugar, golden syrup and 2 tbsp of water into a saucepan and cook on a medium-high heat without stirring until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (118°C on a sugar thermometer). If you don’t have a thermometer, the mixture is ready when the bubbles start to stick together and it drips off a spoon in a steady stream. Remove from the heat.

Place the egg whites into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment and whisk until soft peaks form. With the mixer on low speed, carefully pour the hot sugar into the bowl. When all the sugar has been added, increase the mixer to high speed and whip until the sides of the bowl feel only slightly warm and the mixture is thick and glossy. Add the vanilla extract at the end and spoon the mixture into a piping bag.

Cover the top of half the gingerbread biscuits with a generous amount of dark chocolate.

Pipe the marshmallow mixture onto the bottom of the remaining biscuits, then sandwich the 2 together to form a s’more.

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

Carlos welcomes you to Judges Magical Friday’s and Saturday’s only at Judges

Christmas menus now available online

Opening Times: Northaw: Tuesday to Sunday 12 till late • Enfield: Monday to Saturday 12 till late @judges_restaurant

@judgesnorthaw

www.judges-restaurant.com www.judgesenfieldrestaurant.com 1 Judges Hill, Northaw, Potters Bar EN6 4NL Tel: 01707 802104 or 07960 895479 25A Windmill Hill, Enfield EN2 7AE Tel: 020 8367 1414

CLOSEUP • 53

EDITORIAL

TOASTY TALES As the cold snap begins and winter makes its presence felt, there’s no reason not to stay indoors, place a few heat logs into the wood-burning stove and curl up with a great book. Here are some great page turners that will keep you gripped and entertained.

The Testaments

Gone Girl

By Gillian Flynn

By Margaret Atwood

All Your Perfects

Holly

By Stephen King

By Colleen Hoover

The Cuckoo’s Calling

By Robert Galbraith

Inside the pages:

Inside the pages:

Inside the pages:

Inside the pages:

Inside the pages:

In this electrifying, long-awaited sequel to The Handmaid’s Tale, acclaimed author Margaret Atwood answers the question in this excellent novel that has tantalised readers for 33 years: What happened to Offred? Since 1985, Margaret Atwood’s vision has only grown in significance, becoming a rallying call around the world. Now The Testaments finally reveals, for the very first time, Margaret Atwood’s vision of Gilead’s future. Now she brings the iconic story to a dramatic conclusion in this riveting sequel.

Perhaps the most effective deployment of the ‘unreliable narrator’ in modern publishing, Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl is a true global phenomenon.

Alternating between the present-day narrative of husband Nick Dunne and the past diary entries of his wife Amy, we learn their previously perfect marriage has come undone following a move from New York to semi-rural Missouri.

Amy inexplicably disappears without trace, apparently pregnant; Nick, is the prime suspect.

However, is all that we read the truth?

Is Amy genuinely missing, and, if not, what could be her possible motive?

An imperfect marriage threatens Quinn and Graham’s perfect love. Years of memories, secrets and mistakes are slowly destroying the life they worked so hard to build.

A heart-breaking page-turner about a damaged couple whose future hangs in the balance of promises made in the past. This profound novel by worldrenowned author Coleen Hoover rips open our hearts and makes us dive deep into our souls to ask ourselves one simple question, can a resounding love with a fairy-tale beginning survive a lifetime between two imperfect people?

When Penny Dahl calls the Finders Keepers detective agency hoping for help locating her missing daughter, Holly is reluctant to accept the case.

But something in Penny Dahl’s desperate voice makes it impossible for Holly to turn her down. Mere blocks from where Bonnie Dahl disappeared live Professors Rodney and Emily Harris. They are the picture of bourgeois respectability: married octogenarians, devoted to each other, and semiretired lifelong academics. But they are harbouring an unholy secret in the basement of their well-kept home, one that may be related to Bonnie’s disappearance.

After losing his leg to a land mine in Afghanistan, Cormoran Strike is barely scraping by as a private investigator.

Then John Bristow walks through his door with an amazing story: His sister, the legendary supermodel Lula Landry, famously fell to her death a few months earlier.

The police ruled it a suicide, but John refuses to believe that. The case plunges Strike into the world of multimillionaire beauties, rock-star boyfriends, and desperate designers, and it introduces him to every variety of pleasure, enticement, seduction, and delusion known to man.

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Now taking bookings for private events and Christmas parties @reesalondon 172 High Road, Woodford Green IG8 9EF 020 8143 1125 www.reesalondon.co.uk

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FOOD

Cook’s tip When making this recipe for Rob Delaney on episode 1, season 3 of Dish, Angela Hartnett added two anchovies to the pesto.

BRAISED LEG OF LAMB with mint, parsley & almond pesto When feeding the family over a holiday weekend, it’s good to remove the pressure to achieve perfection. Braised leg is a great option.

Serves 6 Prep 20 mins Cook 4 hrs

Ingredients 2kg whole lamb leg • ½ tbsp sea salt flakes • 250ml dry white wine • 1 bulb/s bulb garlic, halved horizontally • 6 bay leaves For the pesto 1½ pack x 25g packs mint, leaves only • 25g pack flat leaf parsley, leaves only • 175ml extra virgin olive oil • 30g blanched whole almonds, roughly chopped • 1 unwaxed lemon, zest, juice of ½, more if needed • 20g Parmigiano Reggiano, roughly chopped, plus extra finely grated (optional)

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

Method Put the lamb in a roasting tin or other ovenproof dish into which it fits fairly snugly. Rub the salt all over and set aside to let a little of the moisture draw out. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 240oC, gas mark 9.

Roast the lamb for 20 minutes, so the meat is slightly burnished, then reduce the temperature to 150ºC, gas mark 2. Remove the roasting tin from the oven. Pour the wine and 350ml water into the hot tin and add the garlic and bay leaves. Carefully tent the tray with foil, then return to the oven for 3 hours 30 minutes.

At some point while the lamb is cooking, make the pesto in a food processor or blender. Pulse the picked herbs with 2 tbsp olive oil. Add the almonds, lemon zest and parmesan, plus a little more oil if needed, and blitz to give a coarse paste. Decant to a serving bowl, then stir in the remaining oil and the lemon juice, so you’re left with a loose, slick, green sauce. Taste and season with salt, more lemon juice or grated parmesan, if needed.

When the lamb is ready, transfer the joint to a platter and cover with the foil again for 20 minutes, while the rest of your meal comes together. The lamb should now be succulent and easy to carve or pull apart when you serve.

Once settled, skim some of the fat from the tray and transfer 3-4 ladleful’s of the lamb broth to a saucepan. Simmer and reduce for 10 minutes to make a gravy. Reserve the remainder as a stock or broth for another day. Serve with the rested lamb.

ROAST POTATOES with rosemary salt

Roasties seem simple but there are certain details (which potato to use, how long to parboil them, how many times you should shake them) which really separate the truly magnificent from the run-of-the-mill.

Serves 6 Prep 10 mins Cook 1 hr 10 mins

Ingredients 120ml duck fat, beef dripping or vegetable or sunflower oil • 2kg Maris Piper potatoes, peeled • 2 sprig/s sprigs rosemary, leaves picked and finely chopped • ½ tbsp sea salt flakes

Method Preheat the oven to 180oC, gas mark 4. Put the fat or oil in the largest roasting tin you have; put in the oven to heat up. Meanwhile, bring a large pan of salted water to the boil. Cut the potatoes in half or thirds (so they are all roughly equal in size). The more flat surfaces there are, the more crispy edges you will have. Boil for 9 minutes, then drain and shake 4 times in the colander to create fluffy edges.

Remove the tin from the oven; carefully add the potatoes, turning them in the fat or oil. Roast for 30 minutes, then turn again. Increase the temperature to 200oC, gas mark 6. Roast for 30 minutes more, turning over again after 15 minutes, or until deep gold and crisp.

Transfer to a serving dish lined with kitchen paper. In a small bowl, rub together the rosemary with the salt for a minute. Remove the paper from the dish, then toss the potatoes with the rosemary salt.

ROAST CARROTS & PARSNIPS with honey & mustard

This recipe results in crisp, caramelised edges and the deliciously sticky glaze is no more demanding than a salad dressing.

Serves 6 Prep 15 mins Cook 1 hr 10 mins

Ingredients 1kg Essential Parsnips, peeled, trimmed and halved lengthways or quartered if chunky • 6 tbsp Essential Olive Oil • 4 tbsp Essential Wholegrain Mustard • 6 tbsp Essential Pure Clear Honey • 1kg Essential Carrots, trimmed and halved lengthways or quartered if chunky • Thyme leaves, to serve

Method Preheat the oven to 180oC, gas mark 4. Tip the parsnips into a large roasting tin. In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, mustard and honey. Season and pour over the parsnips, toss to coat, then roast for 15 minutes.

Increase the oven temperature to 220oC, gas mark 7, then add the carrots and toss again until everything is coated. Return to the oven for 45-55 minutes until golden and tender, turning everything halfway through. Serve with a scattering of thyme leaves and pomegranate seeds, if liked.

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WWW.GOINGGR EEK.C O.UK 020 3030 4543

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MENUS AVAILABLE FROM 26TH NOVEMBER TILL 24TH DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS MENU 1 £29.80

AVOCADO E GAMBERETTI Avocado & prawns drizzled with cocktail sauce MOZZARELLA FRITTA V Deep fried mozzarella, baby spinach & chilli tomato chutney PROSCIUTTO E MELONE Parma ham & chilled melon ALETTE DI POLLO Spicy & sticky chicken wings POLPETTE Beef and veal meatballs in a rich tomato and herb sauce, topped with mozzarella and parmesan gratin TRICOLORE V Avocado, mozzarella, tomatoes, rocket, basil & olive oil FUNGHI ALL’AGLIO V Mixed mushrooms pan fried with garlic & a hint of chilli PESCIOLINI FRITTI Deep fried whitebait served with lemon & tartar sauce PARMIGIANA DI MELANZANE V Layered aubergines baked with cheese, herbs & tomato BRUSCHETTA AL POMODORO V Toasted bread, diced tomatoes, basil, garlic & olive oil topped with rocket MINESTRONE V Traditional Italian mixed vegetable soup

CHRISTMAS MENU 2 £35.80

CALAMARI FRITTI Fried calamari served with tartar sauce & lemon SALMONE AFFUMICATO Smoked salmon, prawns, avocado, rocket & cocktail sauce POLPETTE ALA MILANESE Meatballs wrapped in lettuce in a spicy tomato sauce & melted mozzarella SPIEDINI DI POLLO Kebabs of chicken, chorizo, onions & peppers with chilli tomato chutney BUFALA MOZZARELLA V Bufala mozzarella, with mixed grilled vegetable, rocket & basil pesto ANTIPASTO MISTO Selection of Italian ham’s, salamis, mortadella with pickled vegetables CROSTONI SAN GIORGIO V Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, avocado, mozzarella, rocket & olive oil GAMBERETTI COCKTAIL A traditional prawn cocktail with served with buttery brown bread GAMBERONI SAN GIORGIO King prawns, garlic, ginger, a hint of chilli & lemon CARCIOFI ALLA GRIGLIA V A salad of grilled artichokes, sliced tomatoes, rocket, mixed seeds & parmesan shavings BURRATA E ZUCCHINE V Creamy burrata mozzarella with grilled courgettes, cherry tomatoes, rocket & red pesto

All the mains are served with seasonal vegetables & potatoes of the day. Except milanese, pasta’s & pizza’s TACCHINO ARROSTO Roast turkey dinner with all the traditional trimmings POLLO MILANESE Chicken escalope served with spaghetti pomodoro SALMONE ALLA GRIGLIA Grilled salmon on a base of rocket, cherry tomatoes & honey balsamic glaze SPAGHETTI CON BROCCOLI V With broccoli, garlic, chilli, olive oil, cherry tomatoes, sun dried tomatoes & topped with herby crumbs RISOTTO PRIMAVERA V With courgettes, beans, asparagus, spinach & peas MERLUZZO ASPARAGI Cod fillet, baby spinach in a light asparagus & mustard sauce TORTELLONI CON SPINACI V Spinach & ricotta filled parcels in a light cherry tomato & basil sauce VITELLO CON FUNGHI Veal escalope in a cream & mushroom sauce FEGATO BURRO E SALVIA Pan fried calves’ liver in butter & sage POLLO SAN GIORGIO Breast of chicken topped with spinach & mozzarella in a tomato sauce PIZZA VEGETARIANA V Pizza with a medley of vegetables, cherry tomatoes & topped with fresh green leaves

All the mains are served with seasonal vegetables & potatoes of the day. Except milanese, pasta’s & gamberoni TACCHINO ARROSTO Roast turkey dinner with all traditional trimmings SALMONE CON ASPARAGI Salmon fillet, baby spinach in a light asparagus & mustard sauce VITELLO MILANESE Breaded veal escalope served with spaghetti bolognese STINCO D’AGNELLO Lamb shank slow cooked with mixed beans, herbs & tomato sauce FEGATO ALLA VENETA Calve’s liver pan fried with onions & glazed with a balsamic vinegar reduction SPAGHETTI ALLO SCOGLIO With mixed seafood & shellfish, garlic, herbs & tomatoes TONNO ALLA GRIGLIA Grilled tuna steak with rocket, borlotti, cannellini beans & topped with a chopped herby tomato salsa BISTECCA CON SALSA Grilled sirloin steak cooked medium rare. Served with cream & mushroom or black peppercorn sauce TORTELLI DI ZUCCA V Filled with pumpkin & ricotta in a butter & sage topped with almonds & choc cookie crumbs GAMBERONI VENEZIA King prawns & scallops pan fried in garlic, ginger, hint of chilli & lemon with rice FRITTO MISTO Medley of seafood & shellfish deep fried until crispy & golden

CHOICE OF DESSERT’S FROM MAIN MENU

CHOICE OF DESSERT’S FROM MAIN MENU

932-934 High Road London N12 9RT (Easy parking nearby) We are inbetween Whetstone & North Finchley

Brunching Made Beautfiul In the heart of Temple Fortune, you will find Nayla Café.

As we walked into a pink paradise, we were welcomed by the friendly staff and were in awe of the interior which included a blooming floral wall, ideal for those picture-perfect moments, hanging lightbulbs, setting the perfect ambience, and a quirky neon sign. During our visit, the staff made sure that our experience was special, and the inviting dishes we indulged in only added to the pleasure of our experience at Nayla Café.

We opted for a classic oat milk vanilla latte, and it was more than just any latte. Not only was the hot drink creamy goodness itself, but with the cafe’s new technology, we were introduced to a device that allowed us to personalise the froth with an image of our choice and the barista expertly crafted it onto the top of the latte!

“THE COMBINATION OF BOTH FLAVOURS WAS A

match made in heaven”

To begin our culinary adventure, we chose the All-Day Halal Full English Breakfast that showcased the cafes commitment to incredible quality and flavour. Providing all staple breakfast items, the breakfast included two juicy beef sausages, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour, two fried eggs with

a meticulously cooked yolk that oozes when you cut into it adding a delicious richness to any meal, a generous portion of mushrooms full of earthy flavour, two crispy hash browns, a slice of succulent turkey bacon, and finally a serving of beans and cherry tomatoes, that added a pop of colour and flavour to our plate. We paired our meal with a slice of warm and crusty sourdough bread to soak up all the delicious juices and flavours.

Following on from the hearty breakfast was the Shakshuka, recommended to us by the restaurant owner, it arrived in a Middle Eastern style dish and was sizzling with flavourous aromas before we even had the opportunity to indulge in it!

Made by cooking eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, the sauce was flavoured with a blend of aromatic spices, which gave it a rich flavour. The eggs were gently poached in the sauce and it was served with hot crusty bread perfect for dipping.

We concluded our meal with the Pistachio Pancakes and the Nutella Waffle Stack. These sweet treats were a decadent end to satisfy our sweet tooth! The waffles were warm and fluffy, layered with the perfect amount of rich and creamy Nutella, then topped with juicy, ripe strawberries that created a symphony of flavour and texture, with a burst of freshness and sweetness to every bite. The combination of both flavours was a match made in heaven. The incredible Pistachio pancakes were my absolute favourite! Studded with chopped pistachios and cascading pistachio cream, it arrived displayed to perfection. The pancake batter was fluffy and golden, and the spread was curated to perfection amongst the rich, nutty flavour.

Our experience at Nayla Café was nothing short of exceptional, we even took some goodie bags away with us! From first impressions of the cafes cosy and pretty interior, to the extraordinary dishes with a Middle Eastern flare, Nayla Café was a truly unforgettable brunch experience.

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1019 FINCHLEY ROAD, NW11 7ES @NAYLACAFELONDON 020 8922 7028

20% OFF

WITH THIS VOUCHER

ENJOY TASTY FOOD AND DRINK AT NORTH LONDON’S INSTAGRAMMABLE HOTSPOT NAYLA CAFÉ.

1019 FINCHLEY ROAD, NW11 7ES

|

020 8922 7028

@NAYLACAFELONDON

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WWW.COCORICORESTAURANT.CO.UK CHRISTMAS PARTY

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Top Italian Restaurant

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TR ADITIONAL GREEK CUISINE, IN THE HEART OF SOUTHGATE, NORTH LONDON.

Enjoy a selection of dishes and box meals here at Dionysus, ranging from vegetable kebabs, swordfish kebabs, chicken wings and of course, our succulent souvla and famous souvlakia served in a traditional Cyprus pitta.

All products are freshly made on site.

Pastichio is back on the menu and more delicious then ever, now made with chicken mince.

Order from the comfort of your own home

COLLECTION OR DELIVERY facebook.com/dionysuskebabs

@dionysus_kebabs

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44 High Street, Southgate, London N14 6EB

020 8886 5655

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15% off

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SAT 2 DEC - SAT 30 DEC

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SCAN ME

RECEPTION 2024 ENTRY

BOOK YOUR RECEPTION ASSESSMENT TODAY

Palmers Green High School (PGHS) offers pupils an excellent academic education in a nurturing and caring environment throughout our Lower and Senior School. If you are looking for a Reception 2024 place for your daughter, we welcome you to register for a Reception Assessment and book a tour of our school to see our fabulous facilities.

We offer:

Small class sizes

Outstanding pastoral care

Access to extensive sports facilities

Palmers Green High School 104 Hoppers Road London N21 3LJ

Contact: 020 8886 1135 office@pghs.co.uk www.pghs.co.uk

Subject specialist teachers

Broad range of extra-curricular activities

PA L M E R S G R E E N HIGH SCHOOL Independent Day School for girls aged 3−16

Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship ‘’To my precious Son August, this piece on strength is dedicated to you. You have been my great joy & inspiration to always want to do and be better. I wish you the strength to one day face your own challenges with confidence… along with the wisdom to to choose your battles carefully. I wish for you to be kind on your journey and always help someone along the way. Listen to your heart and take risks carefully, love from Mummy’’

J

uggling the two things I LOVE… being a Mother and business owner of a marketing company, The Next Social Ltd: My experience & tips!

Being a mom entrepreneur is a unique and challenging role that requires an immense amount of dedication and strength.

It can be difficult trying to give both your business and your family 100%. It’s a fine balancing act, but one that many women find themselves navigating. Personally for me, one of the most difficult challenges I have faced yet. All being worth it!

I remember giving birth to August and whilst he was sleeping I asked my partner to pass over my phone as there was work I needed to get back to. If that isn’t giving 100% I don’t know what is!

Over the days and months, as I learned the routine of my newborn I set some great boundaries in place to help allow me to juggle both motherhood and my business. My biggest 3 would be: Prioritise your time – focus your time and energy on what matters the most. Take the time to reflect on what you want to achieve in your business and in your personal life. This will help create a clear roadmap for how you want to spend your time.

Set boundaries and stick to them – have clear work hours and to create a routine and structure for your work. You’ll need this to stay focused and productive!

Self-Care – It is essential for mum entrepreneurs to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Make time for exercise, meditation, or other activities that you enjoy. This can help reduce stress and increase your overall well-being. 2 things you NEED to keep intact to be able to juggle these priorities.

Wishing all you BOSS mums the best! You’ve got this…

Dolores Tomas Founder The Next Social Ltd @dolorestomasx @thenextsocial

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TR

P

TA

EN

CHOO S L T

Christmas FAYRE

SATURDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2 PM - 5 PM CHRIST CHURCH HOUSE, CHALK LANE, COCKFOSTERS EN4 9JQ

Spectacular stalls, Santa’s grotto, food & drink, games, hair braiding, tombolas, raffle & more ENTRY £2 CHILDREN UNDER 12 FREE

SPONSORED BY

Luxury fashion recruitment

www.sjrlondon.com

TRAVEL

A VIENNESE Voyage

Step into the joy of Christmas with the beautiful streets of Vienna as your backdrop. Vienna is somewhere worth visiting all year-round but it really comes into its own at Christmas time. Vienna during the festive period hosts some of Europe’s best Christmas markets, along with plenty more to do. So, if you’re looking for a winter getaway, the Christmas markets in Vienna truly are an age-old tradition. From mid-November until Christmas, Vienna's most beautiful squares are transformed into magical Christmas markets. The aroma of Christmas baking, hot punch and toasted almonds wafts through the air. The Old City and shopping streets are decorated with festive lights that spread the Christmas cheer in Vienna.

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CHRISTMAS MARKETS

CHRISTMAS CONCERTS

Viennese Dream Christmas Market

Christmas & New Year's Concert in St. Peter's Church

The Viennese Dream Christmas Market is an unforgettable highlight. A tall arched gateway with candles welcomes visitors at the entrance to the Viennese Christmas Market on City Hall Square for those eager to get into the spirit of the season. The unique backdrop gives this market a charm of its own, and the delicious aromas are sure to lull all visitors into the seasonal joy. The traditional Christmas Market offers Christmas gifts, Christmas tree decorations, handicrafts, culinary treats, confectionery, and warming drinks. At the Vienna Ice World at the Christmas Market, ice skaters can put on their skates and make rounds through the romantically illuminated City Hall Park. A special attraction for couples in love is the tree of hearts. There is also an area dedicated to children, where they can learn how to make Christmas cookies or candles, or enjoy a 12 meter-high multi-level carouse, a park with a reindeer train, nativity scene trail, children's chalet, and a designated skating ring.

St Peter’s Church was built from 1701 to 1733 according to plans by Lukas von Hildebrand. Experience the magic of classical music in the heart of Vienna this Christmas or New Year. Immerse yourself in the enchanting setting of St. Peter's Church and let the acoustics transport you to a world of musical brilliance. The Classic Ensemble Vienna will captivate you with their renditions of Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, and Beethoven, creating a truly festive evening program.

Don't miss this opportunity to treat yourself to a memorable performance in the crypt of the baroque St. Peter's Church.

It's a musical celebration you won't want to miss!

Vienna: Strauss & Mozart New Year's Concert

Explore baroque lifestyle and traditional handicrafts. The popular Christmas Village Belvedere Palace is set against the glorious baroque backdrop of the world-famous residence, one of Vienna‘s most beautiful and significant sights. More than 40 festively decorated market stalls offer traditional handcrafted goods, elaborate Christmas decorations and special culinary delights.

Experience a New Year's celebration like no other at the iconic Kursalon in Vienna. Step into a world of classical elegance as the Salon Orchestra Alt Wien takes the stage for their final performance of the year. Accompanied by graceful ballet dancers and international opera stars, you will be surrounded by the enchanting melodies of Johann Strauss and W. A. Mozart. The 22:00 concert promises a special program that will leave you mesmerized. And that's not all - after the performance, head to the Kursalon terrace to witness a spectacular fireworks display and ring in the New Year with joy and excitement.

Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace

Christmas Concert and Dinner in the Kursalon

Christmas Village Belvedere Palace

From 18 November 2023 to 4 January 2024, the Parade Court in front of Schloss Schönbrunn transforms into a winter wonderland for all. Amidst soul-stirring melodies and the scent of roasted almonds and punch, visitors will experience an unforgettable Christmas extravaganza.

Eighty stalls featuring a variety of exhibitors from Austria and neighbouring countries offering traditional and highquality arts and crafts, unique Christmas decorations, nostalgic toys, and more.

Celebrate Christmas in Classical style and see the "Salonorchester Alt Wien" onstage in the Lanner Saal.

Enjoy performances by ballet dancers and international opera singers in an incredible musical celebration of the works of the king of waltz Johann Strauss and one of the primary figures of Viennese Classical music, Mozart.

Accompanied by the waltzes, this event is the epitome of Christmas cheer, including operettas and solo concerts from 2 of the best composers in the world, performed to the highest degree of artistry, plus indulge on an exclusive 4-course "Imperial Vienna" menu in the festive ambience of the "Das Johann" restaurant.

WHAT’S ON EDITORIAL

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.

1 2 3 BECKHAM

BODIES

BECKHAM, a four-part documentary series, tells the inside story of a global football star and cultural icon. David Beckham is one of the most known names on the planet, yet few people know who he really is. From his humble working-class beginnings in east London, his drive and determination to win, and the battle to find balance between ambition, love and family, David’s story is one of immense ups and downs. The series takes you on that rollercoaster and builds a surprising, personal and definitive story of one of the most recognisable and scrutinised athletes of all time.

Based on the mind-bending graphic novel by Si Spencer, Bodies is a police procedural with a twist. When a body – the same body – is found on Longharvest Lane in London’s East End in 1890, 1941, 2023 and 2053, one detective from each period must investigate.

As connections are drawn across the decades, the detectives soon discover their investigations are linked, and an enigmatic political leader – Elias Mannix (Stephen Graham) – becomes increasingly central.

Did he have a part to play in the murder? Or is something far more sinister at play?

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LIFE ON OUR PLANET This is the story of life’s epic battle to conquer and survive on planet Earth. Today there are 20 million species on our planet, yet what we see is just a snapshot in time — 99% of earth’s inhabitants are lost to our deep past. The story of what happened to these dynasties — their rise and their fall — is truly remarkable. In partnership with Industrial Light & Magic, the series uses the latest technology and science to bring long extinct creatures back to life, Life on Our Planet reveals the incredible story of life on our planet.

NETFLIX 4 5 6 SELLING SUNSET

THE CROWN

Netflix reality series set in the world of LA’s high-end real estate, follows seven of the city’s most successful female realtors who all work under the same roof at the #1 agency in the Hollywood Hills and the Sunset Strip. They work hard and play harder, as they compete with the cutthroat LA market and each other.

A relationship blossoms between Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed before a fateful car journey has devastating consequences. Prince William tries to integrate back into life at Eton in the wake of his mother’s death as the monarchy has to ride the wave of public opinion. As she reaches her Golden Jubilee, the Queen reflects on the future of the monarchy with the marriage of Charles and Camilla and the beginnings of a new Royal fairytale in William and Kate.

The realtors of The Oppenheim Group return for S7 with a brand new office, sleek penthouse listings and personality clashes— and throw enough shade to cover every cabana in Los Angeles. In this cutthroat LA market, reputation is everything.

SQUID GAME: THE CHALLENGE 456 real players will enter the game in pursuit of a lifechanging reward of $4.56 million. As they compete through a series of games inspired by the original show – plus surprising new additions – their strategies, alliances, and character will be put to the test while competitors are eliminated around them.

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INTERVIEW

WE PULLED

SAMMY ROOT FOR A CHAT!

We caught up with Love islands 2023 winner Sammy Root on life after the villa, work endeavours and his time at Dog’s Trust charity.

How would you describe your experience on Love Island? Were there any memorable moments that stood out to you most?

It might sound silly to someone else but the experience for me was probably the best experience of my life, I had so much fun, met some amazing people and I feel very privileged to have been on the show. Winning it was a massive cherry on the cake for me.

I think everyone there could have won it, but I was very happy to be the winner standing there. There were so many moments that stood out for me, moments with the boys, moments with Jess, it’s hard to narrow it down.

Can you share how you felt when you found out you had won Love Island?

When I won… I can’t even really put it into words how I felt, it was a whole mixed emotion. It was very surreal, it didn’t feel real and even now a bit, it still doesn’t feel real, but the first week after, it genuinely felt like I was dreaming and I was waiting to wake up.

What has life been like for you since leaving the villa?

charity work is a massive thing for me, it always has been in my family. I was at Dog’s Trust yesterday which was a lot of fun. I did something for Breast Cancer last week, and I’m currently setting myself a challenge, I’m not sure what I’m going to do yet I’m just brainstorming, but I want to do something for the charity ‘Mind’.

I’ve also been working with quite a few brands like McDonald’s, Hello Fresh and Superdry.

If you could work with any specific brand, or collaborate with anyone, who or what would it be and why?

“IT GENUINELY

felt like I was dreaming

AND I WAS WAITING TO WAKE UP.”

Life for me since leaving the villa has been amazing, not that my life before wasn’t fun – I’m the type of boy that’s always had a lot of fun, but since coming out, it’s a whole new life. It was something I always wanted to do.

Can you share any challenges you have faced since leaving the villa and how you overcame them?

Overall it’s been very positive, obviously me and Jess breaking up was a bit of a rollercoaster, but at the same time we ended on positive terms. As a whole, it probably ended in the nicest way possible, but still, to win the show with someone, then for it to end, like any relationship ending, it’s always a weird scenario.

Could you tell us about any exciting events or brands you’ve been working with?

It was always a big thing before Love Island but since gaining a following and being able to do something with that, • CLOSEUP 74large

Any brand in the whole world?! That’s a very big question. It’s so hard because I love my fashion.

My favourite high fashion brand and the one I wear the most is Louis Vuitton; I’d have to go for that.

Can you share your experience on visiting Dogs Trust and why it was important to you?

Dogs Trust was a lot of fun, but it was also an eye opener. It’s a charity that’s important to me because I think that it often gets overlooked because they’re dogs. It was a very important charity to my nan, and I feel like I owe it to her to do what I can for them.

What are your future plans? Are there any projects or goals you’re excited about?

The charity work is obviously a big thing for me, I’m currently setting myself some challenges and goals to do with that, to carry on working with brands is definitely another one. I really did enjoy being on TV, the day-to-day life and the people you work with, they were so amazing on Love Island and being on TV was a lot of fun, it’s definitely another goal of mine. I probably would do another reality show, there’s ones in particular like Dancing on Ice or I’m A Celebrity, I could see myself on a show like that!

Love Island winner Sammy Root visited the Dogs Trust Harefield West London (www.dogstrust.org.uk)

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