Darling Wimbledon Nov14-Jan15

darling Nov – Jan 2015 FREE

MY WIMBLEDON

By Sophie Kinsella NEW YEAR New Resolutions ALL NEW BAKOU On Coombe Lane THE WEDDING PLANNER Your Essential Guide LOOK AT YOU! Personal Styling at Elys WISH UPON A STAR At Centre Court COSY HOMES Paul’s Building Tips inspiring local women in wimbledon | www.darlingmagazine.co.uk

editor’s letter Dear Darling Reader

Cover Girl: Author, Sophie Kinsella Photography © John Swannell

Publisher Darling Magazine UK Karine Torr Editor Karine Torr 020 8739 0059 Advertising 07930 396356 Email info@darlingmagazine.co.uk Contributors Kate Greenhalgh Paul Mendelson Photography John Swannell and Taylor Torr Darling Cobham & Esher Philippa Hennessy 07772 633339 Darling Kingston Marja-Leena Toseland 07802 949836 Design Director Talitha Minchin talitha@talithadesigns.co.uk Printer roger@aquatintbsc.co.uk Distribution info@3colours.co.uk Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Darling Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form – electronic, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from the publisher.

Our bumper Yuletide edition is packed with winter warmers. First out of the stocking is my exclusive interview with Shopaholic author, Sophie Kinsella (gracing our cover), about her Wimbledon loves. If you’re planning a wedding sometime soon, look no further. We have such talent right here on our doorstep, with award-winning designers and every aspect of your big day covered – London style! There are also books from two more local authors to snuggle up with for Christmas, Lindsey Barraclough and Kate Medina, tips on styling, hair and health for the party season, and plenty more to warm the cockles.

We have the ultimate kitchen gadget in beautiful kitchens, great art at Wimbledon Open Studios, a warm welcome to Alice Monger-Godfrey (ex GB cyclist) joining Wimbledon Village Osteopath and even how to break up gently and sort your will out with Hart Brown Solicitors. Lots of Christmas fairs and holiday fun listed on our Diary page so gear up for an exciting Festive Season with Darling.

Karine Torr Editor | info@darlingmagazine.co.uk

CONTENTS 5 8 10 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27 30 35 36 39 41 43 45 47 49 50 51 51 52 53 54

Superstar, Sophie Kinsella inspires us I do! Wimbledon wedding trends Our International Music Festival tunes up Personal styling at Elys – look your best Rosita Heshmati’s unsual jewels Thom Kirby – hair with impact Wimbledon Wishes at Centre Court World class Open Art Studios here again Bakou has arrived on Coombe Lane Wimbledon Village Osteopath’s new star New Year Resolutions – can you keep them?

Darling Social pages full of the who’s who Morgan Jupe on the Morzine slopes Hart Brown on parting, with or without a will Absolute Abode’s winter wonderland Winter Warmers – Paul builds a warm home Kitchens that impress Find cooking a chore?

Property Talk with andrew scott robertson Glittering Merton Best Business Awards Christmas reading Athena’s helpful website and services Bridge with Paul Mendelson Darling’s Diary – What’s On Classifieds & Hot Spots Kate Greenhalgh is the new Sybil Fawlty

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

3

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PEACOCK & CO Solicitors YOUR LOCAL LEGAL EXPERTS 94 High Street Wimbledon Village SW19 5EG 020 8944 5290 www.peacock-law.co.uk office@peacock-law.co.uk

Divorce, Financial Settlement and Children Issues Family Mediation Pre and Post Marriage Agreements Wills and Estate Administration Inheritance Tax Planning Lasting Powers of Attorney Commercial and Residential Property Employment

inspiring woman

Best Sella

‘My Wimbledon’ by author Sophie Kinsella

I

’ve lived on and off in Wimbledon for many years, and it’s a really feelgood place to live. It’s such a great mixture of town and country – I love the fact that I can buy a pair of designer shoes while watching horses clopping down the high street!

I’ve spent many happy hours on Wimbledon Common – my husband even proposed to me on the Common, so it’s got a special place in our hearts.

After a walk I’ll pop into the Light Café for a coffee and a snack. I’m also a regular at Le Pain Quotidien, which is a great place to sit and plot a book. I always head towards the back, where there is usually a cluster of people concentrating over laptops. I often wonder if we’re all writing books!

Another favourite place is Cannizaro House. My children know the gardens backwards as my mother takes them there to walk every weekend. I’m very keen on a cocktail in the bar at Cannizaro – if I’m stuck on my book I’ll go there with my husband and we’ll brainstorm over a Mojito! I love the new extension at the back – it’s so light and airy, with such gorgeous views.

Wimbledon Village is a fabulous place to shop and I’ll happily zig-zag between Matches, Questionnaire, Reiss and Whistles, collecting carrier bags by the armful… not forgetting Cath Kidston. And of course Wimbledon is the original home to LK Bennett, another favourite of mine.

Heading down the hill, I will always pop into Elys.

The stock is fresh and interesting, and there is now a Crème de la Mer counter – result! I’m also a big fan of the Images walk-in manicure station – it’s so convenient.

Photograph by John Swannell ©

I often pop to the Odeon cinema for a movie, but I’m also a fan of the Curzon, which has a really intimate feel. We’re so lucky to have our own theatre in Wimbledon and I’ve seen some great shows there – particularly the pantomimes. Last year I went to Aladdin with Jo Brand and it was absolutely hilarious.

Wimbledon is a great place for activities and hobbies. I am a member of Westside Tennis Club, although I never have enough time to play regularly (one day!) and I have also done ballet lessons in St Mary’s Church Hall. Most people, of course, know Wimbledon only for the tennis and, I must admit, darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

5

AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence

Cannizaro House Awarded 3 Rosettes

Cannizaro House is delighted to receive this celebrated and rare honour.

Only ten percent of restaurants within the AA Restaurant Guide achieve standards which demand recognition and only a mere 10% of the restaurants within the guide have Three Rosettes and above, making Cannizaro’s restaurant now one of the top 150 restaurants in the UK. Lead by talented Head Chef Christian George, Cannizaro’s signature restaurant has warranted this honour by consistently and creatively offering the finest in British seasonal organic cuisine within a truly elegant setting.

Whether it be the perfectly poached lemon sole with crab mash or a 28 day aged Herefordshire cote du boeuf with a delectable truffle dauphinoise; the food soars.

Experience your local 3 Rosette restaurant Reservations: 020 8970 2772 or book online

Cannizaro House, West Side Common, Wimbledon Village SW19 4UE 020 8879 1464 www.cannizarohouse.com

AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence

inspiring woman I’m a sucker for the Wimbledon fortnight. I love the way the shops get dressed up and there’s an air of celebration. I always go to the fair on the Common and buy goodies at all the lovely food stalls, and I try to go to the Tournament as often as I can. We recently had a French guest to stay and we took him to the All England Club museum. I was blown away by how good it was – so interesting and fun.

When you’ve lived in Wimbledon a while, you get to know all the little hidden away and specialist shops.

For example, I often pop into Room Remedies in Raynes Park and for birthday cakes I always turn to Cakes By Robin in Southfields – what wonderful creations they come up with!

Sophie and her mum, Patricia Townley enjoying a lunch at St Cassien

Another hidden treasure in Wimbledon is Southside House – you can walk straight past it and not even know it exists! I’ve been to the most marvellous concerts there as part of the Wimbledon Music Festival. And speaking of festivals, the Wimbledon Bookfest goes from strength to strength, which I heartily applaud both as customer and participating author! It is supported by Wimbledon Books &

Music, which is such a haven of a shop. I love to browse there and always come out with some book I hadn’t even known existed, to see the horses clopping by. Only in Wimbledon…

Sophie’s new book Shopaholic to the Stars is out now. sophiekinsella.co.uk

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Wedding Specialist | Displays for Home or Office Funeral Tributes | Free Consultations | Local Delivery 07979 812219 www.freshwaterflowers.co.uk michelleallen@freshwaterflowers.co.uk

The Who's Who of Wimbledon Weddings Your essential guide to the local experts who’ll make your perfect day Emma Hunt London – Couture Bridal Designer With 16 years in the bridal industry, my favourite part of my work is still the satisfaction I get from knowing I have made my brides feel happy, confident and beautiful on their big day. As a couture bridal designer, I place my greatest focus on quality and craftsmanship, and adore using the most luxurious fabrics and exquisite detailing.

Working closely with my clients, I create bespoke wedding dresses with love and care, fitted to perfection and designed to make a lasting impression. My signature style is one of elegant simplicity and all of my dresses are proudly made by hand in my Wimbledon studio. emmahunt.co.uk | 020 8879 7871

Katja Nuutinen Couture – Designs for Mothers-of-the-brides/Grooms Katja Nuutinen is one of the most sought after new generation fine couturiers in London, specialising in opulent Red Carpet gowns, chic occasion wear and bespoke accessories.

Her impeccably finished and cleverly tailored designs are a firm favourite amongst modern Mothers of Brides/Grooms and are sure to make you feel fabulous. Katja’s ethos is to make women feel confident with their shape and size: “Everyone is worthy of compliments and everyone is beautiful, you just need to unveil it! The right style and proportions, colour that makes you radiant and a perfect fit are essential components in achieving your perfect outfit.” Awarded for excellent customer service and design. kncouture.com | 020 8944 8848

Paola de Paola – Wedding Photographer Paola has always been a passionate artist. She is a multilingual wedding and same sex wedding photographer. After her degree in Fine Art, she worked as a professional photographer for music magazines and record companies. She subsequently moved on to work for Getty Images as a high-end celebrities digital retoucher where she was able to build a very deep understanding of the photographic industry. Fifteen years’ experience with Getty UK have proved invaluable and, out of that, Paola De Paola Weddings was born. Paola’s creativity, professionalism, friendly and caring nature will help you to relax and enjoy the most magical (and nerve racking) day of your life. paoladepaolaweddings.com | 07966 191977

Seasons Florist – Wedding Flowers Over the years, I have been told many times what a difference our flowers made to someone’s day and that is what makes our job so special. Take, for instance, weddings. We offer free consultations so that we can quietly have a one-to-one and listen intently to what the bride of the day imagines her flowers will be like. Lily of the Valley, the national flower of France and only seasonally available in May – fine – no problem – but we want it in October! That is when our expertise and experience comes into play and, more often than not, we make the impossible happen! So for flowers for your Special Day – think of us. seasonsflorists.co.uk | 020 8947 6654

wedding – promo Cannizaro House – Wedding Venue Cannizaro House is magical and enchanting offering a truly romantic wedding venue in fabulous surroundings on the edge of Cannizaro Park.

Our passion has always been to give our brides and grooms the opportunity to express themselves. Using the hotel as a blank canvas, we help them to reflect their characters and personalities in every detail of their wedding, be it a traditional wedding breakfast with champagne, caviar and a string quartet or a themed wedding; or a barbeque with guests sitting on straw bales around rustic tables, followed by a barn dance. The team at Cannizaro House is on hand to turn your dreams into reality. cannizarohouse.com | 020 8879 1464.

NABBD – Not Another Boring Bridesmaid Dress This is a truly innovative concept. One of the first UK shops aimed exclusively at bridesmaids, NABBD offers one of the widest selections of dresses designed to fit and flatter all shapes, sizes and budgets. Like many brides, owner Polly Thompson found that the endless pursuit of the one perfect dress that will suit all your bridesmaids, in the right colour, perfect size and within budget is a near impossible and exhausting task. NABBD has scoured the globe to source leading designers including JLM Couture, True Bridesmaid, Mark Lesley and Watters, with the assurance that bridesmaids won’t find other guests turning up in the same dress! nabbd.co.uk | 020 8871 227

The Cake Bar – Wedding Cake Specialist I am a local baker and specialise in bespoke, contemporary wedding cakes and cupcakes. My cakes are made to order with the freshest ingredients and I am also vested in supporting vegan communities and those with dairy, egg and nut allergies by continuing to develop high quality and delicious recipes. Always inspired by my clients, I pride myself on creating couture wedding cakes with style, originality and, most of all, great taste! The Cake Bar invites you to a personalised, complimentary tasting and design session, during which we’ll delve into the details of your celebration and work together on a vision for your dream cake. thecakebarlondon.com | 07581 321424

Kaz Fernando – Makeup Artist Kaz is a highly successful, award-winning wedding hair and makeup artist who has been working with brides and bridal parties throughout south west and central London for over 15 years. Kaz is particularly experienced at society weddings and working with Asian and Indian brides. Renowned for her calming influence and great personal manner, Kaz creates beautiful, sophisticated, flawless looking brides, helping them to be the best they can be on their big day. Kaz has been crowned UK Wedding Make Up Artist of the Year at The Wedding Industry Awards and you can learn more about what people say about her wonderful work on her website. kazfernandomakeup.co.uk | 07956 396308

music

Wimbledon International Music Festival “I had the great fortune to be brought up with live classical music as a natural element in the house, with no connotations of elitism: just the joy of beautifully coherent sounds that nourished the spirit.” – Anthony Wilkinson, Festival Director

W

imbledon International Music Festival, now in its sixth year, will run from 8th-23rd November in venues across Wimbledon. Supported

by Arts Council England, this

The Borodin Quartet

is Wimbledon’s most expansive and creative programme yet.

Highlights include a colourful, original, danced production of Stravinsky’s Soldier’s Tale, an extended jazz series. New events, such as the Viola Day, will also take place, at which the great Lawrence Power will hold a free, public master class.

Wimbledon’s War and Peace theme is particularly unique.

Haydn’s ‘Nelson’ Mass will feature in the opening concert given by The Academy Choir and Baroque Players, and The Katona Twins will perform their programme

Anthony Wilkinson

‘For Whom the Bell Tolls’, interwoven with the prose and poetry of international writers, narrated by actor Henry Goodman. Prokofiev’s celebrated ‘War Sonata No. 7’ will also feature in young pianist Denis Kozhukhin’s recital. The festival also offers ‘Peace’ with Mozart’s ‘Exsultate Jubilate’ and fun with ‘Death by Custard’, ballads performed by Musicians of the Globe.

wimbledonmusicfestival.co.uk

to book now.

Gorgeous original gift Put the dress away but not the memories

Gift vouchers available the perfect gift for your loved one this Christmas • Wellness Consultations • Ayurvedic Massage • Indian Head Massage • Reflexology • Swedish Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • (All £55: 60mins) By award-winning therapist Jamie Chalmers exclusively at The Wimbledon Village Osteopath 39 Church Road SW19 5DQ To purchase a gift voucher, contact Jamie directly: jamie@rasayana.co.uk 07540 725 021 www.rasayana.co.uk

Artist and illustrator Lyndsay Russell will create a Paris-style fashion sketch of your wedding dress, shoes, bouquet and headdress, adding personal touches such as fabric swatches, the wedding date and the bride’s name.

These unique artworks are also perfect for Christmas, birthdays and, of course, special anniversaries.

From as little as £125.

T: 07879 490487 E: lyndsayrussell@ blueyonder.co.uk www.weddingfashionsketches.com

Fall in love with Warren House, a dream venue for your special day.

Could there be a more idyllic setting for your wedding?

Stunning Victorian Mansion 20 minute drive from the M25 25 minutes by train from Central London Exceptional Personal Service Superb Dining • Evening Receptions Luxurious Bridal Suite • Sumptuous Bedrooms Licensed for Civil Ceremonies Dedicated Wedding Planner Landscaped Garden and Picturesque Terrace

Hold your wedding at Warren House before 31st May 2015 to receive 20% off the exclusive venue hire charge.

Call 020 8974 7115 and quote SPRD15.

Terms and conditions apply.

For more information please call our Wedding Consultant on 020 8974 7115 or email weddings@warrenhouse.com

Warren House, Warren Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT2 7HY warrenhouse.com/weddings

fashion

Personal styling now available at Elys Get the look you want

A

brand new Personal Styling Suite is now available in-store at Elys Wimbledon, run by personal stylist Kate and her team. Located in Womenswear on the first floor, it is a service for all Elys customers, male and female.

The new suite offers the double luxury of space and a relaxing time whilst Kate and her team help you to update your style, find an outfit for a specific occasion or to seek out that perfect accessory.

Best of all this personal styling service is completely free with no obligation to buy.

You can book your free personal styling appointment online at the Elys website. The suite is open Tuesdays 10am–4pm, Thursdays 2pm–8pm and Saturdays 9am–3pm. Choose from either a ‘Style Update’, ‘Style Fix’, ‘Style for 2’ or ‘Occasion Dressing’ to get your fashion fix.

elyswimbledon.co.uk/ personalstyling or call 020 8626 8989 Kate, Elys Personal Stylist

TheSpaHaircut Add a little spa luxury to your haircut GLOW

a facial that infuses radiance £15

Wimbledon International Music Festival has just got an Arts Council grant to support a highly imaginative production of Stravinsky's Soldiers Tale - set as a computer game, with a parachute drop, projections, and a smart phone as never used before.

Fully costumed, with seven dancers and narrator it is supported musically by an extraordinary group of musicians, all Principals from the major orchestras, including Michael Collins considered the finest clarinet player in the world.

For tickets event details and special offers

www.wimbledonmusicfestival.co.uk

REFINE

a tourmaline charged rejuvenating facial £15

SHINE

a botanical hair & scalp therapy £25 Quoted price is for add-on only when booked with another hair service.

Call to find out more information about our full menu and to book your experience 21/ 23 Wimbledon Hill Rd 020 8090 5818 www.ginaconway.co.uk

fashion & beauty promotion fashion – promo

Fantasy jewels

R

Frustrated by the uniformity of high-street jewellery, Rosita Heshmati’s discoveries inspired her to set up an online designer boutique

osita’s craving for quality and expressive, unique designs for everyday wear and special occasions led to her buying jewellery directly from small designers during frequent trips to southern Europe. “I soon had a jewellery box full of these wonderful creations and became the envy of my friends who started asking me to choose items for them, whenever business or pleasure took me back to this beautiful part of the world. Nothing

introductory offer

makes me happier than scouring the small streets of Venice or Istanbul for undiscovered creative gems.”

The realisation that many other women desire the same thing – jewellery that sets them apart with its originality and finesse that comes from centuries of traditional jewellerymaking, combined

with a Mediterranean, lyrical expressionism – prompted her to explore showcasing her collections and so Expressions des Bijoux was born. “My mission is simple – to give women access to stunning jewellery, reflecting a variety of tastes and styles from refined simplicity to luxurious drama.”

ExpressionsDesBijoux.com. expressionsdesbijoux.com Designer Jewellery Fair, up Designer Jewellery Fair, to 50% OFF, 9 December up to 50% OFF. 9:00 9am a.m to– 9pm 92014, Dec 2014 9:00 p.m, Cannizaro House Cannizaro House Hotel, Hotel, Wimbledon, SW19 Wimbledon, SW19 4UE Free parking 4UE.validated Free validated parking.

Maud.

55 High Street, Thames Ditton, Surrey KT7 0SF

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Beautiful and unusual things for you and your home. www.maudlifestyle.co.uk tel: 0208 3982014-january 9774 darlingmagazine.co.uk | november 2015

13

THE FOREST BAILIFF

36 Durham Road, Wimbledon, SW20 0TW 020 8947 5115 | www.forestbailiямА.co.uk

hair – promo

MAKE AN IMPACT! Thom Kirby pushes the boundaries

R

ecently the team at Thom Kirby were lucky enough to attend Salon International, which brings together hairstylists from across the globe eager to display and exchange their ideas. Much of the work shown at these events could be described as the ‘haute couture’ of hairdressing, however, that does not exclude them from being executed and accessible at a more commercial level.

Colour, as ever, was a dominant part of this display with flashes of skin enhancing dusky pinks topping creamy blonde bases, perfect for warming up a pale winter complexion. There were luxurious, violet tones displayed on sultry, golden brunettes which helped to produce an exciting, visual contrast for both the wearer and stylist. Not for the faint hearted, but great fun!

And perfect for the beckoning party season.

Styling was big and bold.

From cascading waves and curls worn loose

or piled high, to hair woven into head enhancing shapes.

Complimenting this was a more structured approach, shown in sharp, glossy, geometric shapes.

Conclusion: make a strong impact by harnessing and tailoring the current trends to suit your hairdressing needs.

Not forgetting our male clientele, of course. We can confidently predict that there was much variation in what was on offer. From classic barbering techniques for some, to those who may be prepared to venture into a more avant garde area of style and colour.

Thom Kirby is about to celebrate its 6 month anniversary in Wimbledon Park, where they have continued to grow thanks to the recommendations of their existing and new clientele.

Additionally instrumental in this success is our association with Darling which has helped to spread our message to a wider audience, and we hope to build on this in 2015 and beyond.

Our team look forward to welcoming you to the salon to discuss any of your festive or future hair requirements.

Thom Kirby Hair 020 8947 5222 155 Arthur Road SW19 8AD thomkirbyhair@gmail.com WELLA stockists

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

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community

WIMBLEDON WISHES Centre Court opens its heart this Christmas

E

veryone knows someone truly deserving of a Christmas wish come true and this Christmas, Centre Court Shopping Centre in Wimbledon is set to play Santa with its Wimbledon Wishes campaign.

Shoppers, young and old, charities, carers, local volunteer groups, nurses and others will be invited to nominate someone they know deserving of a Wimbledon Wish.

Centre Court, and its long Christmas list of helpers, will then set to work making those wishes come true every day from December 8th until December 25th be it a Christmas feast, courtesy of Marks & Spencer Simply Food, a stylish festive makeover, courtesy of Toni & Guy or the biggest, cuddliest teddy bear imaginable from the Build-A-Bear Workshop – they will be on it!

A host of partners including AFC Wimbledon, New Wimbledon Theatre & Love Wimbledon, will be lending their support to help make our local Wimbledon peoples’ Christmas wishes come true.

All are welcome to come and make their Wimbledon Wish in a specially-constructed booth, installed by event and party hire company, Clownfish Events, in Centre Court’s upper mall for nine days from Saturday November 29th until Sunday December 7th. So come and make your wish!!

“We could not be more excited about our unique Christmas venture,” says Suzy Wood, Centre Director. “We wanted a feel-good campaign that would involve the entire Wimbledon community and embrace the spirit of Christmas. Right now, the shopping centre feels like Santa’s workshop,

with everyone preparing to make this year a truly memorable one.”

Watch out for videos of the Centre Court team making wishes come true across their website, Facebook page, Twitter page and partners’ channels – and join the discussion on Twitter using the hashtag #wimbledonwishes.

ATHENA # PAGE

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Tel: 020 8947 5337 Email: carole@partiestogo.co.uk Using only the freshest able to create vibrant Outstanding quality ingredients, food as wellwe as are invitations, decorations,  hire exciting of equipment...catering to most budgets. and dishes that you and your guests will remember.

We canCory, also organise the event, includingin 1994. who founded the business Run by Carole everything from marquees to DJs.

“Immaculate attention to detail......leaving you to enjoy the party!”

Woodcote House SchoolHouse School Woodcote Snows Ride, Windlesham, GU20 6PF Snows Ride, Surrey Windlesham, Surrey GU20 6PF Tel: 01276 472115 Tel: 01276 472115 www.woodcotehouseschool.co.uk www.woodcotehouseschool.co.uk

carole@partiestogo.co.uk

carole@partiestogo.co.uk 020 8947 8947 5337 5337 ·• 07971 020 07971 141 141733 733 www.partiestogo.co.uk www.partiestogo.co.uk

art

Date for your diary: 36th Open Studios Art Show at Wimbledon Art Studios

W

imbledon Art Studios will be celebrating its 36th Art Show between Thursday 13th and Sunday 16th November, with 150 artists taking part, in what is one of the largest studio complexes in the country.

Four days of open doors when art

collectors from around the UK and Europe meet under one roof to visit the studios of artists (whose work is generally shown at international art fairs and prestigious galleries), as well as the newest, emerging talent from Europe’s leading art colleges.

The event has free entry and is open to everyone – art lovers looking for the perfect piece for their living room, professional interior designers and even parents with children. It’s a great family day out. There is no obligation to buy, although it is easy to be tempted, there’s something for everyone - from greeting cards or handmade wrapping paper, all the way to wall-size oil canvasses or lifesize sculptures.

Wimbledon Art Studios 10 Riverside Yard SW17 0BB 020 8944 1183 wimbledonartstudios.co.uk

10

sep-oct 2013 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

women in business

Love Thy Curves!

Successful entrepreneur Ali Cohen embraces her new look in a growing market

B

akou has arrived! After 10 years operating as a successful franchise, Ali Cohen decided to take the plunge and become an independent retailer. With 10 years’ experience catering for ladies in the plus size market, Ali has a wealth of knowledge and feels that she and her team really know what their customers want as well as understanding all the difficulties faced by this underserved section of the market.

“Just because you’re not a size 10 doesn’t mean you don’t enjoy fashion or looking good” says Ali. “It appears that most of the high street retailers have forgotten this and neglect all these ladies. We have a selection of beautiful, stylish clothes made from sumptuous fabrics that are envied by many smaller ladies in the area. I am constantly being asked to do smaller sizes but, for me, that would do a disservice to all my loyal and regular clientele.

I firmly believe in sticking to what you know and what you do best!”

Bakou, named after a watering hole in Ali’s favourite holiday destination, Barbados, opened on September 1st and so far seems to be hitting all the right notes!

“I have been asked for an online shop but I think it’s important to go slowly and concentrate on one thing at a time! Baby steps, as they say, but who knows what the future holds?! Right now I just want to focus on offering a fantastic product, great choice and continued excellent customer care for my customers”.

“Shape, texture and colour are key elements of this season’s collection. We have a variety of fabrics; from cosy faux furs to soft silk and linen combinations.

Fabric quality is always important to ensure clothes feel luxurious next to the skin”.

Accessories are essential! Urban style chunky necklaces made from recycled paper are the latest addition to an already varied selection of beautiful necklaces, scarves, elegant gloves and cosy snoods.

Bakou is situated in an easily accessible spot on the junction of the A3 and Coombe Lane in SW20 and has the advantage of having free parking all around.

“We are ready to welcome new and existing customers alike and hope that all will be equally delighted with our new offer.

One plus side of no longer

being a franchise is being able to offer many different styles which will be constantly updated. The future is exciting and we hope our customers will enjoy the ride with us!” bakou.co.uk 020 8947 9797

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

23

www.thepilatesclinic.com

20

sep-oct 2013 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Darling-Wim sep-oct 2013.1.indd 20

25/08/2013 19:53

health – promo

Gearing Up! Ex GB cyclist joins The Wimbledon Village Osteopath

W

e are very excited to welcome Alice MongerGodfrey to our osteopathy team and asked her to tell us about her journey: I always liked sport and pushing my body to its limit. After cycling professionally, competing nationally and internationally, and testing my body physically and mentally, I wanted to fully understand the anatomy and physiology behind how the body worked. Osteopathy seemed the perfect profession for me, combining my passion for people with my sporting expertise to help my patients reach their goals – performance or health related.

Were you aware of Osteopathy as an athlete?

Not in my early years but, increasingly, my teammates were seeing osteopaths and experiencing the benefits and I could see the great potential in it and not just for athletes. I now treat all kinds of cyclists from those who ride recreationally to world and Olympic champions.

Has your cycling career influenced you as an Osteopath?

Hugely! As a professional athlete you need to have drive, commitment, discipline and

motivation. You also need an understanding of the demands placed on the body in order to get the most out of it. To train and practise as an osteopath requires these same qualities and, as a career, it’s equally rewarding.

Shane Sutton (Great Britain Cycling Team Director and Team Sky Cycling Coach): ‘I knew Alice when she was a talented, young rider and knew she’d retired from the sport to study osteopathy. Having been treated by her for back pain and knowing her in-depth knowledge of cycling and cycling-related injury, I knew she would be able to offer something very unique for injury management. She has also privately treated some of the elite riders restoring them back to full fitness.’

Alice is a registered Osteopath, Medical Acupuncturist and Sports Masseur Price: £50 for all treatments Initial consultation: 1 hour Follow up appointments: 40 minutes If you would like to book a consultation with Alice please contact us on: 0208 286 7024 info@wvosteopath.com wvosteopath.com

Alice Monger-Godfrey (right), with Lizzie Armitstead (Olympic Silver Medalist, Commonwealth Gold Medalist and World Cup Series Winner)

10% discount on your first booking

39 Church Road SW19 5DQ

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

25

Stitch-up Fabrics Yarn Quilting Crochet Haberdashery Knitting Workshops Gifts

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for Dog and Cat Grooming · Bathing · Clipping · Hand Knit & 10.00 a.m. - 4.30 p.m.

Stripping · Scissoring · Creative Dye · Puppy Groom · Knatter Monday - Saturday Cats lion clips or combing through

Pick Up Drop Offs | Microchipping | Dog Sitting 130 Arthur Road, Wimbledon, SW19 8AA www.poshpetparlour.co.uk Bushey 020 Rd 8944 Raynes6488 Park SW20 8BP www.stitchup.co.uk

Bruce’s

Darling-Wim sep-oct 2013.1.indd 45

25/08/2013 19:54

Doggy Day Care

New spaces available in Wimbledon!

Due to popular demand, get in touch to find out more!

• Day care, boarding, grooming • Acres of private, fenced fields • Constant supervision • Heated indoor areas • Swimming pools • Agility course

0207 205 2230 www.brucesdoggydaycare.co.uk

™

mental health

New Years Resolutions?

Therapist Pam Custers helps you jumpstart your goals – and stick to them

A

s the nights draw in we often turn to the New Year and think about making changes. But ninety percent of our resolutions are broken within the first two weeks of making them. So what’s the point?

Change is the very thing that makes us grow and develop, but change is elusive and challenging.

To succeed we need to understand how change occurs so we can set ourselves up for success rather than failure. Therapists understand change – it is why clients come to see us. Change can be broken down into five stages: not being ready, getting ready, ready, action and maintenance.

Maintenance is key. You may say to yourself, “Well that is bleeding obvious!” Well, here’s the rub! It is the maintenance stage that turns a resolution into a reality. Importantly, within the maintenance stage we are likely to move back to the “ready” stage quite a few times. By embracing the fact that our resolve is likely to slip and that we are going to take one step back a couple of times before making the change permanent, we can effectively incorporate a new behaviour into our way of life. I like the analogy of steel requiring tempering before becoming hard.

‘Know that you are likely to have “slips”- this is not failure, but a vital part of making real change’ Building a coping strategy rather than abandoning the idea of change is key to success. A small manageable goal, making a clear plan, getting support, having a clearly-defined success path and giving yourself rewards along the way will all help to get through this maintenance path.

In short, set yourself up for success. Know that you are likely to have ‘slips’, and accept that this is not failure but a vital part of making real change. Be kind to yourself. If you slip, pick yourself up dust yourself down and start all over again.

Would you like to make some changes to your life?

Contact me to get back in charge of making your life more fulfilling.

Pam Custers is an experienced therapist working with individuals, couples and families. Accred MBACP. MA. BA (Psych) Hons and is a RELATE trained and registered counsellor.

07572 841 388 | pam@pamcusters.co.uk darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

27

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To arrange an appointment for a personal demonstration: T 020 8944 9040 E meridian@techniquest.co.uk W www.techniquest.co.uk/meridian

TechniQuest Technology Consulting and our partner Meridian Audio are delighted to sponsor The Borodin Quartet at the Wimbledon International Music Festival “The Borodin’s utter ease in this music is astonishing.

They know instinctively how to let every phrase breathe.”

—The Guardian

H O M E A U TO M AT I O N | G AT E A U TO M AT I O N & E N T R Y S Y S T E M S | I N T R U D E R , F I R E & C C T V S E C U R I T Y | M U LT I R O O M A U D I O | D I G I TA L T V & V I D E O D I S T R I B U T I O N | H O M E T H E AT R E LIGHTING DESIGN | SCENE BASED LIGHTING CONTROL | IT C O M M U N I C AT I O N S D I G I TA L T E L E P H O N E S Y S T E M S | A D VA N C E D M E C H A N I C A L & E L E C T R I C A L S E R V I C E S D E S I G N

26, High Street, Wimbledon Village, London, SW19 5BY T 020 8944 9040 E info@techniquest.co.uk W www.techniquest.co.uk

N THE SCENE WIMBLEDON BOOKFEST’S ‘GLITTERATI LUNCH’ EVENT SAW THE STARS COMING OUT TO CHAT!

Bookfest Beauties (Above)

MERTON NEW BUSINESS AWARDS CEREMONY

L-R: Fiona Razvi (organiser), Mandy Mallen, Fanny Blake, Sophie Kinsella, Penny Vincenzi, Kim Peacok and Ema Jones (Peacock Solicitors, sponsors of the ‘Glitterati Lunch’ event) Left: Paul Merton and Darling Editor, Karine Torr SEEN AT ABSOLUTE ABODE PRESS LAUNCH

Above Right: Schmidt Kitchens, runners-up, ‘Best New Business’ L-R: Charley Jones, Laura Hope, MD Ryan Marfleet & Paul Harvey from Morrisons Solicitors (sponsor) Right: ‘My Community Award over 25’ at the Mayor of London’s Team London 2014 Awards. Boris Johnson, Mayor of London and Barbara L-R: Owner, Kirsty McMorron Mayor of Merton, Cllr Agatha Windsor, MBE, Nihara Krause, Stem4 founder (centre) Akyigina and MP for Wimbledon Stephen Hammond

STEM4 WINS MAYOR OF LONDON AWARD

SEEN ON THE ANNUAL MERTON ARTS TRAIL THIS SUMMER

L-R: Stephanie Woodman, Gemma Baxter, (Fielders Art Shop), Wendy Bliss, MAT, Linda O’Hara, Mark Wiles and Alan Bakerat

L-R: Linda Harrison-Knibbs, Andy and Alison Struthers ‘DRUCULA’ SECRET CINEMA AT SOUTHSIDE HOUSE

Ceramic artist Sandy Layton with Alex Layton SUPPORTERS AT MELISSA JAMES CONCERT

Jeweller, Militza Ortez, Jamie Craig & silkscreen printer, Chrissie Craig

L-R: Elaine Miller, John Jo McFadden (Wimbledon Film Club), Wendy Bliss, Monica Koclega and Grace Alves

WIMBLEDON COMMON GOLF CLUB MEMBERS AT COMMON STABLES OPEN DAY

Back: Jackie Jillings, Lynette Kuttner Wiener, Front: Kirsty Chapman and Natalie Stevens

L-R: Lindy Ratner, Susie McHugh, Gary Clements (Pro), Martha Salsman Hernandez & Emma Pope (Club Manager)

GASTRO PUB, CROOKED BILLET CELEBRATES ITS NEW TRANSFORMATION

L-R: Regulars - Alex Ross, Fredy Hollins , Jessie Huckin and Verity Leeson–Mill (Photographer John Powell)

L-R: Ella Miller and Dave Marsh – Bar Staff, Nikki Moore and Duncan Moore – Landlord (Photograper John Powell)

DARLING AUTUMN SOUTH AFRICAN LADIES NETWORKING EVENT AT KÖNIG KITCHENS IN WIMBLEDON VILLAGE

L-R: Elspeth Campbell, Julie Holbrook, Catherine Maclay, Pam Custers and Tam Jackson (Photographer Ronel van Zyl)

Main speaker and sponsor, Paul Bryan from Haven Construction and speaker, Inge Berry

STEPHEN YOUNG SALON HOSTS WINE TASTING BY MORGAN JUPE

L-R: Tina Hughes, Sarah Austin, Nina Moeller and Robin Falck

L-R: Stephen Young, Alison Young, Jess Hitchen and Josh Morgan

SPOTTED AT THE RECENT STAFFORD GALLERY PREVIEW (AT WIMBLEDON FINE ART) Right: Robert Giles and Ana Contreras WLT Councillor and Wimbledon Residents

DAVID LLOYD MEMBERS’ SERIOUS TENNIS TO MOLLORCA TRIP

L-R: Cheryl Piper, Frances Small, Philip Robinson, Rachel Angel, Steve Gordon, Tony Vaz and Andrea Hill WIMBLEDON WOMEN IN BUSINESS NETWORKING HARD!

L-R: Diana Mason Chair of the WWIB, Trisca Cusden, Jennifer Denning and Lidia Webb THE REALLY HELPFUL CLUB LUNCH AT WARREN HOUSE

Top: Sarah Austin (owner RHC), Emma Mitchell, Caroline Dunlop, Sue Saker (Speaker) Left: Jen Craven and Mireille Farmer

HEMINGWAYS BAR TURNS FIVE YEARS OLD!

L-R: Students - Stacey White, Kathleen Frost, Mike Mitchell (Headmaster), Trina Cooper, Adele Robinson, Elaine Miller Front: Georgi Bartlett and Monique Gardner

L-R: Susie McHugh, Julie Proctor, Caroline Barrett, Jane Bailey & Dawser Ramatella PLAY WIMBLEDON WINS FUTURE WIMBLEDON IDEAS CONTEST

L-R: Helen Clark Bell, Love Wimbledon BID Manager, Pablo Sendra Fernandez, competition winner, Paul Windsor, Love Wimbledon Chairman and Martha Schwartz, guest speaker.

WANT TO BE SEEN IN DARLING Want to be seenAD in Wimbledon?

Advertise your business in darling today!

darlingmagazine.co.uk 07930 396356

ANNUAL MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT - ‘WORLD’S BIGGEST COFFEE MORNING’ EVENTS RAISE THOUSANDS

L-R: At The Forest Bailiff, Lucy Woodruff, Ellie Featherby, Amy Dhala, Samantha Hazlehurst and Terri Pilgrem

L-R: At Holy Cross Prep, Wendy McEvoy, Jane Thomas, Michael Harrison, Maureen Shilston and Debbie Whatling

L-R: Debra Gudzman, Karen de Villiers (host) and Sue Ullyett L-R: At Athena Networking, Warren House, Kate Smith, Jo Hall, Mariko Lavender-Jones, Julie Eltham and Alex Jones WIMBLEDON & PUTNEY COMMONS STABLES OPEN DAY

L-R: At Coombe Hill Manor Care Home, Helen Welan, Denise Wainford, Marsha Beresford, Martin Hains and Jill Richardson

Left L-R: Angela Evans, Womble, Henry Lee and the Senior Keeper, Bill Rowland L-R: At Holy Cross, Helena A’hearne, Michelle Baroukh & Lynne A’hearne OPENING OF NEW STORE, IGLOO IN THE VILLAGE

L-R: Isabella Linden, Simona Saraz (Manager), Nicola & Robert Thompson with Georgia Thompson & Kate Domash

ABUNDANCE FRUIT DAY (BELOW) L-R: Michael Long, 7 years old, Juliet Boyd, Nick Long, 10 years old, James Grindrod, 13 years old, Joyce Pountain, Organiser, Gary Stevens, Reece Davies, Mayor of Merton Cllr.

Agatha Akyigina and her Escort, Afua Boaten Busia, at the apple press. Photograph Auriel Glanville

skiing – promo

Morzine

The ski resort that ticks all the boxes!

A

s Morgan Jupe approach their third winter season in Morzine, they reflect on why and how they’ve grown to love this gem of a ski town so much.

Jess: Before we started our business, I knew Morzine from happy family holidays. From the moment Josh and I arrived to prepare for our first season we were instantly charmed by the authentic atmosphere and the more than helpful local people. It was such a pleasure to be made to feel at home almost immediately.

Morzine is situated at the heart of the Portes du Soleil, an area with over 650km of pistes making it one of the largest ski areas in the world. Whilst other European resorts have become increasingly expensive in recent years, Morzine has remained affordable and has kept its unpretentious, Savoyard appeal. Many Brits have decided that it’s such a fantastic place to call home they’ve built and renovated properties out there, bringing another dimension to the local community. However the majority of restaurants and bars remain French-owned, which helps Morzine retain its traditional character.

Josh: Morzine has plenty to offer not only in the way of fantastic, varied skiing but also for glorious

mountain lunches and lively après ski. We have great relationships with the restaurant and bar owners in the centre of town and our guests are always thrilled with their experiences in our favourite spots: L’Etale, Le Vaffieu and The Tibetan Café, to name a few.

With easy access to Avoriaz, Châtel and the Swiss resorts there is something for everyone to enjoy. Morzine-Les Gets is an intermediate skier's paradise with endless forests and cruising blue runs. The rest of the Portes du Soleil offers more varied skiing, with steeper runs and plenty of off-piste areas for adventurous types.

Some people place an overemphasis on a connection between low altitude resorts and poor snow fall. Not in the Portes du Soleil! Avoriaz receives an average 8m of fresh powder per season, which is the third highest record in Europe; no other French resort comes close!

The crowning accolade is Morzine’s unrivalled convenience.

The proximity to Geneva means airport transfers are just over an hour, making this unspoilt dreamworld the perfect retreat for short breaks and for families with young children.

To book your next holiday with us please go to morganjupe.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

35

legal – promo

“Until death (or divorce) do us part …”

By Kate Smith and Chris Thurlow

36

nov–jan 2015 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (50788) Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Kate Smith

A

new will is perhaps not the first thing that comes to mind when dealing with a family separation, but in view of the new intestacy rules coming into force on 1 October 2014, if you don’t already have one, it really should be. Even if you have a will, you should review it.

For those couples who do not have children, if you die without a will and before the divorce has concluded with the Decree Absolute being pronounced, all of your assets will pass immediately to your (now estranged) spouse.

This is a significant change from the old rules under which your other family members could also benefit from your estate.

Arguably the biggest change will be felt by those couples who do have children. Under the old intestacy rules, if you died without a will and before the Decree Absolute had been pronounced, only the first £250,000 of your estate, together with your personal belongings, would pass directly to your spouse. The remaining estate would then be divided 50% into a trust for your spouse and 50% to your children, providing some peace of mind that your children would benefit from your assets

both on your death and then on your spouse’s death.

This is no longer the case. With the dawn of the new rules, as of 1 October 2014, if you do not have a will and you die before the Decree Absolute has been pronounced, the half share that would have been held in trust for your spouse will now pass to him or her outright to do with as they wish.

Food for thought indeed; particularly if your children are young and you wish to provide them with assets, or income, when they grow up.

The solution is simple. If you do not yet have a will, you need one.

If you have minor children, this will also allow you to set out who you wish to be their guardian, or guardians, in the event of your and/or your spouse’s deaths, and who you wish to be responsible for administering your estate.

If you already have a will does it provide for everything to pass to your spouse? Is that what you still want?

This is not the only practical matter you should consider upon separation. If you own property

Chris Thurlow

with your spouse as joint tenants, upon your death they will own the entire property. Consideration should therefore be given to applying to the Land Registry to sever the joint tenancy so that you each own the property in two very distinct shares. This is known as tenants in common. Once you have done so, upon your death, your share in the property will form part of your estate and will therefore be distributed in accordance with the terms of your will, assuming that you have made one.

At Hart Brown we have specialist lawyers who will be able to assist you with any queries you may have about wills and estates and/or family matters. We look forward to hearing from you.

For enquiries about wills and estates, please contact Chris Thurlow on: wills@hartbrown.co.uk or by telephone on 020 8947 8171.

For matrimonial enquiries, or if you would like to discuss your family matter more generally at a free 30 minute Option meeting, please contact Kate Smith on: family@hartbrown.co.uk, or by telephone on 020 8947 8171.

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

37

Introducing St Anthony's new outpatient centre

T

monitors and this will progress as he face of public technology becomes more cost efhealth and healthcare fective. As such, more information provision in England will be monitored remotely; not is changing. Modern only by the individual, but also by technology, an ageing population Specialists in their doctors. and an increased focus on public Extensions health means that healthcare Renovations Already there a number of carproviders must adapt their practice diac devices exist which commuto remain relevant to the needs of New builds All aspectsnicate of Roofing directly with physicians and the UK population.

Loft conversions hospitals via 3G technology thus All types of building works driving an increased demand for With increasing technological Free Estimates convenience by patients. capacities and a political push on public health, we are increasingly such,506129 the strategies of healthaware of how to keep our bod-484890As 07759 | 07752 care providers need to focus ies healthy. With this improved jotom2@hotmail.com around patient convenience. This knowledge comes the will to do is likely to mean an increase in something about it. Already moWimbledon . Kingston . Esher . Surrounding areas day-unit and diagnostic centres, bile technology is beginning to fill bringing healthcare closer to the void with basic health monipatient homes. toring systems, such heart rate

Stagwood Homes Ltd

St. Anthony’s Hospital is starting early, with a new outpatient centre in Raynes Park. In a fully integrated health centre, with NHS GPs, NHS outpatients and a physio pilates studio also in residence, St. Anthony’s now holds 8 outpatient consulting rooms, in the newly built Raynes Park Health Centre. Diagnostics tests are available on-site bringing a higher standard of care closer to surrounding neighbourhoods such as Raynes Park, New Malden, Wimbledon and Kingston.

Please contact 020 8099 2020 or raynespark@stanthonys. org.uk for enquiries or visit www.stanthonys.org.uk

World Class Healthcare with a Local Approach St Anthony’s Hospital combines the most advanced medical procedures and skills with the kind of personal care many hospitals have forgotten to provide.

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This allows us to hold 8 consulting rooms in addition to the 12 already located at St. Anthony’s in North Cheam.

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The Landscaping Consultants aim to deliver garden excellence and make the customer’s imagination a reality.

We provide a comprehensive array of garden services including: Brickwork Driveways Seating Solutions Fencing Irrigation Turfing

Garden Design Garden Storage Victorian Tiling Paving / Decking Pergola Water Features / Ponds

Whether you’re thinking of moving now or in the future, or you just want a free no obligation market appraisal, please call in to meet us or phone us today.

07545 340554

Grant Fuller Estate Agents, Valuers, Development Consultants 316a Worple Road West Wimbledon London SW20 8QU

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e: info@thelandscapingconsultants.co.uk @JacobTLC

building – promo

Winter Warmers Want the ‘hot-house’ effect?

W

ith the cost of energy increasing continuously, what better time to warm up your winter and reduce those bills at the same time? Look to extend or renovate, and reap the rewards.

By adding a loft conversion you can certainly increase the insulation to your home. Building regulations over the past few years have become really stringent with regard to insulating lofts. The U-value (measure of heat loss) that needs to be achieved is very low in order to get your building control sign-off. With a wellinsulated loft, the rising heat can’t escape. The result is a warm, cosy home without the expense of wasted heating. And in the depths of winter, you’ll find that yours is the only house in the road where the snow doesn’t melt on the roof – proof that you’re getting the most out of your energy bills.

Double glazing is also very beneficial to any home. It keeps the heat in and the cold out.

Haven Construction works in partnership with Grabex Windows, who produce top quality, double-glazed wooden,

UPVC and aluminium windows, as well as doors at very affordable prices. Once installed you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it years ago.

‘Keep the heat in and the cold out’ Rear extensions can warm up your home as well. New floors are insulated, the walls are of insulated cavity wall construction, and the roof is required to be fully insulated as well. Rear doors and windows are all double glazed, as are roof windows.

The thought of a cold house this winter should no longer be a concern. These are just three of the ways you could significantly warm up your home.

For you it means a warmer winter and your bills are not as high – so a win-win situation! And to top it off you’ll have more space to enjoy the warmth in.

havenconstruction.net T: 020 3405 2404 Freephone: 0800 118 2446

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

41

WHITES of Wimbledon Property Refurbishment Providing a comprehensive and bespoke service: • • • • • • • • • •

project management kitchen installation bathroom installation professional decorating and painting service flooring electrical work plumbing tiling plastering landscaping & garden maintenance

“

I have known Morena Byrne for over 15 years on a personal basis and from a professional basis and have found her extremely professional and likeable. She is very punctual and efficient and very presentable and conducts all her business activities with ultimate professionalism.

T: 020 82888492 M: 07967 828129 email: morena@whites-wimbledon.co.uk www.whites-wimbledon.co.uk

”

Hani Madanat, Director Coombe Residential

kitchen – promo

It’s All in the Fit! Mr & Mrs Rawal of Wimbledon tell us why Schmidt Kitchens was the only showroom they needed to visit

A

fter deciding to downsize from a house to an apartment, we knew we would have a task on our hands in terms of fitting everything into our new property. It was important that everything looked right so we started our project by completely gutting the property, which was quite dated and needed refurbishing from scratch.

One of the most important elements of our new home was the kitchen and we went to the Schmidt Wimbledon showroom after seeing them in Time & Leisure. We wanted a modern kitchen but also needed a kitchen that offered plenty of storage. We were really impressed when we visited the showroom.

The staff were really helpful from the first time we visited and there were so many colours and finishes to choose from! The thing that decided it for us, though, was the storage options and we decided not to even visit any other showrooms!

The design process was really fun. It’s been a long time since we last bought a kitchen so it was great to be able to visualise the finished space looking at the 3d drawings. This also made it easy to change things around and, with the help of Benoit our designer, we

were able to get exactly what we wanted. He really took the time to understand how we use our kitchen and what we wanted from it and it is now a dream space to cook in.

I had already researched what colours were in fashion right now through reading various articles and we decided on the Kashmir Grey in a brilliant finish, which has a beautiful glossy shine to it. It looks fantastic in our home.

After we ordered the kitchen it took about 6 weeks to be delivered. This seemed like a long time to me but actually worked out perfectly with the builders, and everything just fell into place. I guess, considering it was made to order, that really wasn’t long.

We couldn’t be happier with the finished result. It looks clean and modern and best of all, because of Schmidt’s storage solutions, we have been able to fit everything from our much larger, previous kitchen into our new one! We will definitely be telling our friends!

Call 0203 617 8715 or visit www.schmidt-wimbledon.com darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

43

kitchen gadget – promo

THE FUTURE OF COOKING IS HERE! Isabel Hammond introduces Thermomix, German technology at its best What is a Thermomix?

Thermomix is considered the ultimate kitchen appliance by over 7 million people worldwide. It is 12 professional quality kitchen appliances in one.

It weighs, chops, kneads, blends, steams, cooks and whisks all in a space-saving design to make your cooking easy, fast, healthy and creative.

Why have we not heard about it before?

Even though Thermomix has been produced for over 40 years, its parent company, Vorwerk, has only been established in the UK since 2013.

Where can we see a Thermomix in action?

In Heston’s kitchen, Alain Roux’s, James Martin’s… they all use it! Joking aside, what you do is book a demonstration with an advisor like me. I have had a Thermomix for over 8 years so I speak from experience and I am based locally in Wimbledon Village.

What are these demos like? Are they a heavy sales pitch?

Not at all! The demos are very relaxed. We just cook a simple meal of 4 dishes to show the functions of the Thermomix. At the end of it people get to enjoy tasting the food they have prepared. We can tailor the demo for gluten free, wheat free, dairy free or vegan. I like making them very informal and my goal is ultimately to inspire people.

Why do you say the future is here?

Thermomix is now digital. It has a digital display and you can follow on-screen recipe instructions by using the smart Recipe Chip and the Guided Cooking function. With Guided Cooking you just add the ingredients and your Thermomix will set

temperatures and timings. Husbands and children love it. It is very empowering and very simple to use.

Also, from next year, you will be able to download the app and your favourite Thermomix recipes, just like a cooking library, create your weekly menus, for instance, and next time you are at the supermarket your shopping list will be there at your fingertips!

Terrific, how can we book a demonstration?

It’s very easy, just get in touch – contact Isabel Hammond on thermoinspire@gmail.com thermoinspire.com darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

45

Visit Our Showroom: 167 Arthur Road Wimbledon Park SW19 8AD Contact Us:

make your mark

T: 020 8715 5575 E: info@openplandesigns.com www.openplandesigns.com

O

pen Plan Designs, based in London, is a truly bespoke company that builds custom-made furniture for the home. We specialise in kitchens, but also create storage for bedrooms, home offices, vanity cabinets, and indeed any other part of the house. Our expert craftsmen combine traditions of workmanship with the latest technological innovations. The furniture we produce incorporates artisan joinery skills with state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques. We use the finest materials, and all our woods meet the highest standards of FSC accreditation.

property – promo

Stephen Parsons, Head of Residential Sales at andrew scott robertson, explains why in today’s tough property market not all estate agents are the same

T

he property market is an ever changing feast and this year has been quite extraordinary. Help to Buy, The Bank of England Mortgage Market Review, talk of a Mansion Tax and the threat of raised interest rates, have conspired to produce one of the most erratic years that I can recall since putting the ‘go faster stripes’ on the side of my first company car as a trainee estate agent in 1984.

As agents, we use our expertise to keep up with the trends and advise our clients at every twist and turn how to get the most out of the market. Our aim is to have a client for life, and we achieve this by offering sensible advice; from valuing your home to advising you when to accept an offer.

Since launching our new brand last year, we have brought dynamism to the local property market, and firmly established ourselves as a market leading estate agency in the local area.

We do this by offering a bespoke personal service based upon taking a pro-active approach and paying attention to the detail. Our energy, integrity and enthusiasm,

backed by our strong track record, has made us the estate agent of choice for many local vendors.

What’s our secret? Simple – we deliver results.

Our expertise spans the property spectrum; from Residential Sales and Lettings to Auctions and Commercial Property and we are one of the few privately owned companies to do so. We are truly Professional Property People.

So in today’s challenging market, where stock is thin on the ground and there is stiff competition for every property, how do we ensure our clients come out on top? By being innovative and not just relying on the traditional methods to sell property. We have recently launched two unique services; our “Premium Buyers Club” is a complimentary service for locals where you tell us where you are looking to buy and we do the legwork for you. This includes canvassing the areas you are interested in to see who might be thinking of selling and allowing you to stay one step ahead of the competition.

And with most buyers looking for potential in a property; potential to expand, to open up rooms, to

bring in more light, our “Home Design Service” illustrates the potential your property has to prospective buyers, helping you attract broader interest, sell faster and maximise the sale price.

But don’t just take our word for it… “…it was clear they (ASR) knew their business and they have behaved professionally throughout. I couldn’t ask for more.”

Stephen Parsons is Head of Residential Sales at andrew scott robertson

Contact andrew scott robertson on 020 8971 6780 or email residential@as-r.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

47

BETTER THAN EVER • We’ve in vested over £ 1 , 400, 0 0 0 •

Total tranquility at David Lloyd Raynes Park

NEW LUXURY SPA Escape it all. Discover an oasis of calm on your doorstep. A welcome addition to our stunning sport, fitness and leisure facilities now includes a luxurious new spa.

Step inside our new hydro spa, discover our new sauna, steam room and heated beds, the ultimate in relaxation.

Beyond relaxation, enjoy world-class indoor and outdoor tennis courts and swimming pools. Beyond the ordinary, workout smarter in our state-of-the-art gym or take a class, while the kids enjoy endless active fun at our DL Kids activity centre.

Discover more. Come and see what’s new.

Call 0844 848 4732 or visit davidlloyd.co.uk/raynespark

awards

Another fantastic year for Merton Best Business Awards Overall Business of the Year sponsored by WSM Advisors: The New Wimbledon Theatre Entrepreneur of the Year sponsored by Hartley Fowler.

Winner: Cath Harrop, Mum2mum market | Runner-up: Sylvia Anderson, Anderson Food Hygiene The Extra Mile sponsored by MVSC | Winner: GEM & Co Financial Services Runner-up: Mash Media Group

Winners and runners-up 2014

Going Green sponsored by Merton Council. Winner: Microbee Runner-up: Aztec Event Services

Wimbledon Village Business of the Year sponsored by Wimbledon Village Stables.

Winner: Cannizaro House.

Runner-up: fit8

Best New Business sponsored by Morrisons Solicitors.

Winner: Mini-Engineers Runner-up: Schmidt Wimbledon

Best Creative Sector sponsored

by Haines Watts.

Winner: MaByLand Runner-up: Simmons Crêperie Colliers Wood Business of the Year sponsored by Connecting Colliers Wood.

Winner: Willows Pre-School Runner-up: Eddie Catz Wimbledon.

Special Award sponsored by Merton Council, was presented to Carers Support Merton by Cllr Stephen Alambritis, leader of Merton Council.

‘Overall Business of the Year’, AND ‘Wimbledon Business of the Year’ winner – New Wimbledon Theatre. Simon Marsh (far right – from WSM Partners, Sponsor), Tamykha Patterson, Winner Best Young Person of the Year (red dress), Stuart Graham, Nicci Allt – Marketing Manager (blue dress), and Lisa Mart.

Best Young Business Person of the Year sponsored by South Thames College.

Winner: Tamykha Patterson, of New Wimbledon Theatre.

Joint runners-up: Yemin Ali, of Capital Training Group and Ryan Colburn, of Aztec Event Services.

Wimbledon Business of the Year sponsored by Love Wimbledon.

Winner: The New Wimbledon Theatre Runner-up: Capital Training Group Team Development sponsored

by Time & Leisure.

Winner: Gina Conway Aveda Salons and Spas.

Runner-up: Willows Pre-School.

Morden Business of the Year sponsored by Merton Chamber.

Winner: AquaPhysio Runner-up: Anderson Food Hygiene Enterprising Business sponsored by Geeks.

Winner: Mum2mum market.

Raynes Park Business of the Year sponsored by Events & PR. Winner: STEM4.

Runner-up: Merco Best Service Excellence sponsored by Andrew Scott Robertson.

Winner: Anderson Food Hygiene Runner-up: AquaPhysio

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov–jan 2015

49

books

Christmas Reading…

SNAPPED UP Local author, Kate Medina chats to Darling about her debut novel White Crocodile

I

magine that, buried around Wimbledon, there are explosive devices waiting silently to kill.

They could be buried under the high street, on the common or in your child’s school. A kilogram of pressure is all it takes…

Hard to imagine, isn’t it? But this is the reality in much of Cambodia.

An ancient evil haunts the marshes New book for short-listed, local author, Lindsey Barraclough

W

hen I settled down with a pen on a cold January night in a small room at the top of my house in Wimbledon, little did I imagine how much my life would change. Working into the small hours (the only time available with five children), I wrote a book based on a creepy, centuries-old folk ballad – Long Lankin, about a

50

nov–jan 2015 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

It was time spent working in this beautiful, but tragic country that inspired my debut thriller, White Crocodile, published in August to stunning reviews in the national newspapers and on BBC Radio 4 Woman’s Hour. Whilst in Cambodia’s landmine fields, I was privileged to work with mine clearers and to meet Khmers who had lost limbs to land mines. Off the tourist trail, Cambodia is a heartbreaking place to visit and left a huge and lasting impression on me. It is also an unbeatable setting for a dark and disturbing thriller. White Crocodile by KT Medina is now on sale and signed copies are available from Wimbledon Books and Music.

creature that haunts a lonely marsh. Three years later I was delighted to see it published and listed for a number of literary prizes, including the Branford Boase and the Carnegie Medal.

The follow-up, The Mark of Cain, came out in July.

The story can be read independently of the first, although it continues the theme of long-ago horrors – particularly witchcraft and revenge – seeping unsettlingly into the future. I am told these books shouldn’t be read at night alone, and I have to admit I even scared myself sometimes in that little room upstairs. The Mark of Cain and Long Lankin are available at all bookstores.

bridge

Paul Mendelson, Darling’s Bridge Guru turned Auctioneer!

Creating Connections Inspiring Success

Hampton Court, Kingston, Surbiton,Thames Ditton, Balham, Putney, Streatham and Wimbledon Wimbledon, Putney, Balham, Kingston, Surbiton, Streatham and Hampton Court

EMAIL julie.eltham@theathenanetwork.com www.theathenanetwork.com EMAIL julie@theathenanetwork.com HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES Love Wimbledon HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES www.lovewimbledon.org Love Wimbledon London Borough of Merton www.lovewimbledon.org www.merton.gov.uk London Borough of Merton Citizen’s Advice Bureau www.merton.gov.uk www.nacab.org.uk Citizen’s Advice Bureau Merton Chamber of Commerce www.nacab.org.uk www.mertonchamber.co.uk Merton Chamber of Commerce Wimbledon Civic Forum www.mertonchamber.co.uk Wimbledon Town Centre www.wimbledoncivicforum.org.uk www.wimbledontowncentre.co.uk Wimbledon Society Wimbledon Civic Forum www.wimbledonsociety.org.uk www.wimbledoncivicforum.org.uk The Wimbledon Museum Wimbledon Society www.wimbledonmuseum.org.uk www.wimbledonmuseum.org.uk Wimbledon Community Centre Wimbledon Community Centre www.wimbledoncommunity.org.uk www.wimbledoncommunity.org.uk Volunteer Volunteer Centre Centre Merton Merton www.volunteercentremerton.org.uk Learning & Skills Council Charity Commission www.lsc.gov.uk www.charitycommission.gov.uk Charity Commission Wimbledon Choral Society www.charitycommission.gov.uk www.wimbledon-choral.org.uk Wimbledon Music Diary Local Police/Neighbourhood Watch www.wimbledonmusicdiary.com www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods Wimbledon Choral Society The Wimbledon Guild www.wimbledon-choral.org.uk www.wimbledonguild.co.uk Local Police/Neighbourhood Watch Care Connect www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods www.merton.gov.uk/living/care/careconnect The Wimbledon Guild www.wimbledonguild.co.uk Centre Court Care Connect www.centrecourtshopping.co.uk www.merton.gov.uk/living/care/careconnect IMPORTANT NUMBERS www.centrecourtshopping.co.uk Wimbledon Police St George’s Hospital 020 8947 1212 or (999) 020 8672 1255 IMPORTANT NUMBERS Merton Council Kingston Hospital Wimbledon Police St George’s Hospital 020 8274 4901 020 8546 7711 020 8947 1212 or (999) 020 8672 1255 NHS Emergency National Merton Council KingstonRail Hospital 111 8274 4901 08457 484950 020 020 8546 7711 NHS DIRECTby The Athena National Sponsored Network Rail 0845 4647 08457 484950

The annual ‘Night of the Stars’ charity night matches eager amateurs with some of the best players in the world. Following a friendly competition and auction on November 23rd, hosted COLLECT COPIES AT OUR “HOTSPOTS” by your – usually tired and emotional – columnist, February 26th 2015 will see tournament * Nicholas & Steele 78the Durham Rd itself.

A blendTel: of 07947 bridge011879 glamour and cerebral excitement and, everyone agrees, one of the best bridge events anywhere… * Maison St. Cassien, Wimbledon Village Tel: 020 8944 1200

♠

♥

North

* Southfields Gallery S - 223 Wimbledon Park Rd Tel: 07947 675 059 H 832

D KQ107643 C Q84 Coombe Lane SW20 West * Truckles Deli on East Tel: 020 8605 2175 S 107632 S 54 H QJ1097 H K65 Rd D 5 * Aromatica Italian Deli on Leopold D 98 C J9 Tel: 020 8944 0309 C K107652 South S AKQJ98 Please call first to check stocks H A4 D AJ2 C A3

♣

♦

Dealer South

N/S Game

N E S - - 2C 3D NB 3S 4D NB 7NT

W NB NB

Not many pairs reached 7NT but, as Grand Slams go, it is not so hard. Over South’s game-forcing 2♣ opener, North’s 3♦ is a positive response, promising a 5-card suit or longer headed by two of the top three honours. When South rebids 3♠ and North rebids 4♦, this must show a 6-card suit. South counts 8 tricks outside of diamonds and 6 diamond tricks, making enough for the Grand Slam. In fact, the spades misbehave but North has a seventh diamond so 13 tricks are easy.

Raising money for wonderful charities has never been so much fun. nightofthestars.org.uk aceoftrumps.com

    

   

    

           

        Yoga classes at Mansel Road Centre, Mansel     Wimbledon, London SW19 4AA    

Road

   Class type: Beginner Vinyasa Flow        Thursdays starting 10th Nov 6.45pm - 8.15pm    

   Special

  

rates for 6 weeks yoga course. 

    Stylish and exciting new yoga wear also available  

through    

urshiyogastyle.com

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   Contact Urshita Pankhania for prices and details         info@urshiyoga.com today!  

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point of view

OMG – IT’S TIME TO AIRBNB!

By Kate Greenhalgh

W

e had a student staying on our sofa recently. His Mum had let out his bedroom for the same week he thought he could live at home.

Don’t judge! According to Savills, my generation are the so-called ‘Tumbleweeders’, with spooky empty bedrooms which we only occasionally enter, like the woman in the news recently who found 5,000 wasps colonising a spare-room duvet, unnoticed. It’s a problem.

Empty-nesters have two choices: behave like aged retainers ever in readiness for a royal visit from their adult offspring, or downsize and invest locked-up capital sensibly, in designer handbags, OR (ok, 3 choices) OR - go the Airbnb route.

The idea is you invite total strangers to come and stay in your spare rooms. What could possibly go wrong? It’s ideal. Instead of haunting the ghostly shell of what was, you have a home filled with life again, (and yielding a tidy rent.) (And yes, HMRC, I am declaring it.) You meet Nils from Norway, Carly from California, Bob from Seville, and their families, including Baby Emily who screamed solidly for 3 nights. It’s so...rewarding and fun! I’m reinvented - the new Sybil Fawlty of Wimbledon. There are a few drawbacks, I’ll admit. My mother was a bit hurt when I redirected her to my webpage when she wanted to visit, (“December’s very busy Mum - you better click on the days you want asap”) and a New York executive who complained about the lack of aircon. It’s called a window. Open it.

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nov–jan 2015 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Generally though, it’s a pleasure to give people a nice place to stay as long as they are not allergic to cats, to hear the story of their trip, and promise rashly to return the visit one day.

With Christmas coming, we’ve had a lot of enquiries, of course, because children seem to expect to be able to come home at Christmas, but I say to them, “Darlings, what’s more important? You lot, or our lovely, exciting, international Airbnb family, who also want to book in?”

They know it’s just a phase. In a few short years all those rooms will be permanently needed again to accommodate a never-ending through-flow of visiting/parked grandchildren. Revenge!

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30th November – 7th December Tell us your Christmas wish and see if it comes true!

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