1 Shanice Noble, Dog Walker, Walks with Shanice, www instagram com/walkswithshan | 2 Nathalie Hrayssi Kaur, Yoga, Ayurveda, Vedic Counselling, www devyoga co uk | 3 Victoria Ayling, Yoga-Tastic, www yoga-tastic co uk | 4 Madhavi Patel, Aromatherapy, www rishiveda co uk | 5 Dr Joe Bansal, Dental Specialist, www ikondentalspecialists co uk | 6 Simon Salhotra, The Little Garden People, www instagram com/thelittlegardenpeople | 7 Lewis Cox, Urban Tropicana, www urbantropicana co uk | 8 Dominika Kaliszewska, local food blogger www pollyeatslondon co uk | 9 Sharan and Sayu Sinha, Room AI, https://roomai co uk/ | 10 Dr Cyra Neave, Clinical Psychologist, www littlebranch co uk | 11 Sharandeep Salh, Your Deep Self, www yourdeepself com | 12 Jasmine Doyle, Hairdresser at Yuzu, www yuzuhairandbeauty london
Roasts by the fire; Ayurvedic facts about food; locally made food and drink; a review of a fabulous meal; packing for a picnic and a couple of recipes
Community Spotlight; local to dos and Event
We’re back with a second issue with more fabulous advice, local info, brand spotlights and recommendations from experts all over Ealing
Welcome to the Autumn 2023 issue of Ealing Living Magazine
Since we launched, we ’ ve been thrilled to see our community online going from strength to strength and pleased to hear the positive feedback from all who value the platform as a brand or as a client or customer of a brand
And what a great few months it’s been! Ealing holds so many fantastic festivals - Greenford, Acton, Hanwell, Pitshanger there have been summer celebrations throughout the borough And that doesn’t even include the brilliant itinerary in Walpole Park In spite of the fact that the weather has been a bit of a bummer, Ealing sure knows how to party!
We have an Ayurvedic special in which experts give us their advice from a lifestyle, food and beauty perspective; tonnes of fashion advice including local top tips from Riana Horner; an interview with The Queen’s favourite weatherman, Tomasz Shafernaker; conversations with candlemaker Candalin and artist Neil Lamaire as well as a spotlight on upcoming Art Trail BEAT and a chat with winner of Young Ealing Foundation’s Entrepreneur Award, Chanelle McPherson-Bradshaw.
LOUISA MAIDWELL, EDITOR EALINGLIVINGMAGAZINE@GMAIL COM
Tomasz Schafernaker is a Polish-British meteorologist who currently works for BBC Weather Recently it was revealed that Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, had had a "secret crush" on Tomasz and loved to watch his weather forecasts
Tomasz also moonlights as a wonderfully accomplished artist In 2021, Tomasz was crowned Celebrity Landscape Artist of the Year in a Sky Arts special and he has recently announced an exciting collaboration with For Art Sake on Ealing Green Tomasz works across all media, from acrylic paint to watercolour, oil to graphite
At what stage in your life did you first move to Ealing?
I was born in Poland, but West London is where I have some of my earliest childhood memories, including various parts of Ealing However, as an adult, I have been living in Ealing for over 20 years
If you were telling someone about Ealing who had never visited, how would you describe it?
It is a wonderful and tranquil borough in West London, abundant with greenery Located just north of Kew Gardens and The River Thames, it boasts large parks and ample space for a refreshing run! I think it occupies a perfect position within Greater London not too far from Central London to escape the hustle and bustle, yet close enough to reach the West End at almost a moment’s notice
Do you have a favourite Ealing watering hole?
In recent years, Ealing Broadway has undergone significant development, and Dickens Yard has become my go-to spot for a quick coffee or drink during the week
Where have you had your best Ealing meal?
Regarding food, I must admit, I may not be the best person to ask ask! However, when it comes to grabbing a delicious lunch salad, I frequently visit The Farm W5 in Ealing Broadway
Is there a part of Ealing that you find particularly inspirational or where you find peace?
One of the things I love about this area is its parks Gunnersbury Park and Elthorne Rough in particular Gunnersbury Park’s expansive size, magnificent trees, pond, and historic buildings make it one of my favourites I have often taken a sketch pad and my watercolour paints for some en plein air creativeness
However, I must say that it saddens me a little to see it becoming more “developed” and losing some of its open spaces On the other hand, Elthorne Rough, situated by the Grand Union Canal, has a slightly more “wild” feel to it, which is precisely why I love it too It features a few secluded spots that are wonderfully peaceful On a sunny day, when I happen to have some free time, visiting this park can be truly blissful you would never guess you ’ re in the midst of a bustling city
Tell us what you ’ re up to & what’s next for you.
During the week, my time is equally divided between TV work in Central London and managing my art business from home As someone who wears both the hat of an artist and a scientist, this arrangement provides the perfect balance for me Recently, I have had the pleasure of collaborating with my favourite gallery and gift store in Ealing Broadway, For Arts Sake Since mid-summer, they have been displaying prints of my cloud artwork, and it brings me great joy to see them through the window whenever I pass by
15 MINUTES OF
Just fifteen minutes of yoga can make a big difference to how you feel throughout your day. Victoria Ayling, founder of Yoga-tastic in Ealing, explains how 3 poses and 5 minutes of conscious breathing can help you feel steady, powerful and peaceful
MAKE LIKE THE WARRIOR
Press your front foot into the mat, square your shoulders above your hips and ground down through the outside edge of your back foot Reach through your arms, gazing over the front hand Repeat on second side, ready for whatever the day brings
Press down through both feet and drop the sitting bonesavoid arching your lower back Lift the chest and and draw the arms back behind you to bring your torso more vertical Try lifting the heels for an added challenge Tap into your power
Actively press your hands down into the mat, lift up and back through the sitting bones and let your head hang down Try bending one knee and straighten the opposite leg, sending the heel back and down Switch and repeat several times Soothe your nervous system
Sit cross legged, kneeling or in a chair, placing your hands on the front of your body Allow the inhale to expand your belly first, and then your chest Allow the exhale to release your chest first and then your belly Be gentle and avoid taking bigger breaths This technique helps you use the lungs effectively and brings about a sense of peace
Victoria is passionate, skilful and inspiring yoga teacher She teaches classes in Pitshanger, Northfields and Hanwell
www.yoga-tastic.co.uk
Northfields-based Madhavi is an established aromatherapist, perfumer and facialist With an experience spanning over 22 years, Madhavi’s expertise relies on her extensive knowledge in the healing arts, combining the finest natural and therapeutic ingredients to create indulgent bespoke perfumes, skincare and therapies We spoke to her about how aromatherapy can benefit you
How does aromatherapy enhance health?
We practice aromatherapy everyday - whether the senses are stimulated by a field of wildflowers, the aroma of a deliciously home cooked meal or the fragrance artist's creation, these scents affect us on an often profound level Through the exploration of the spheres of scent we become more aware of the potency of scent and its ability to affect the mind, body and spirit The practice of aromatherapy through the use of intelligent formulas coupled with therapeutic touch can bring about deep states of relaxation to relieve conditions such as insomnia and anxiety to invigorating and bringing balance when you require nurturing and healing Simple techniques such as infusing your home with your favourite scent to perfuming yourself with your signature scent are all profound ways to change the energy and enhance your mood
Can aromatherapy have physical benefits as well as emotional/psychological?
When inhaled, the scent molecules in the essential oils travel from the olfactory nerves directly to the brain and impact the limbic system, which is the part of the brain responsible for emotions, memory and behaviour Aromatherapy can have physical, emotional and psychological benefits Physical benefits include pain relief, improving sleep and treating skin care conditions Emotional and psychological benefits include stress reduction, improved concentration and relaxation.
What’s the difference between the expensive and the cheap brands of aromatherapy out there?
When selecting an aromatherapy brand you must take the following into consideration:
The quality of the essential oils
The concentration of essential oils within the formulation
The base formula
The purpose & method of application
Most of the aromatherapy brands within the marketplace have very little essential oil within the formulation to bring about a profound difference The modern day brand satisfies and caters to the masses to ensure commercial success For a results focussed and therapeutic experience I always recommend consulting with a qualified practitioner As for what the main difference is between an expensive and cheap brand - it really depends on the brand I have seen products selling for hundreds of pounds with inferior quality formulations and ingredients, and very very rare, less expensive products sell for a lot less than what they are worth
Which scents would you prescribe for someone experiencing anxiety?
Scent is subjective and ,within the art of healing and aromatherapy, one must consider the individual's association with a particular essential oil or blend Through a consultation an experienced practitioner will be able to understand the impact of a scent/essential oil upon the recipient through observation and discussion For example the scent of lavender which has numerous therapeutic properties including helping to relieve anxiety may work for some but for others could trigger feelings of sadness and grief. To help change the energy and assist you when feeling anxious, consider essential oils and scents that you have positive associations with Generally speaking, lavender, clary sage, sandalwood, frankincense and rose are good for instilling a feeling of peace and calm
Would you say aromatherapy is a very personal thing? Do people react differently to scents?
Yes, I would most definitely say scent is a personal thing and when practiced and applied with thought and precision can bring about profound changes I have had the privilege of working and observing how scent can influence people in different ways and a memorable and thought provoking experience I can share is of a client of mine who had asked me to formulate her a signature perfume The scent I had formulated for her was based around the exotic fragrance of champaca - a heady/narcotic aroma which she still wears today She said it was the perfume she wore the night she met her now husband of 14 years My client believes it was the scent that helped to attract her husband - now the husband isn’t much of a scent enthusiast but one could argue it could have been working subconsciously However I believe through my clients own words the fragrance makes her feel sexy and confident - it is the impact of the scent on my client's mind that gave her the confidence and oomph to attract her husband I have introduced champaca to other clients, who want to feel sexy, strong and confident Some love it and others find it too overpowering - so it really is all down to your own association and relationship with the scent www.rishiveda.co.uk
Sharandeep Salh works with people who want to elevate their life and wellbeing, from their deepest core outwards She founded Your Deep Self in 2016 to help clients to transform their lives using her talents as a Life Coach, Hypnotherapist and Ayurvedic Health
Practitioner We spoke to her about how we might establish balance in our lives this Autumn using Ayurvedic principles
One of the fundamental principles of Ayurveda is the belief that we are intimately connected to nature, and our health and wellbeing are influenced by the natural elements and rhythms around us In Ayurveda, the five elements ether, air, fire, water and earth are considered the building blocks of life These elements are believed to exist not only in the external world but also within our bodies, both physically and emotionally The balance and interaction of these elements determine our unique constitution, known as doshas: Vata (air and ether), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water) By harmonising with nature, we can promote balance, prevent disease, and enhance overall wellbeing
Vata is the predominant dosha of Autumn season, characterised by the qualities of cold, dry, rough, unstable, light, and mobile, which describe the elements of ether and air Therefore, opposite qualities are favoured at this time of year to enable our bodies and minds to remain in equilibrium, leaning towards warm, moist, and stability
Here are five Ayurvedic tips to promote balance during autumn:
1 Follow a Seasonal Diet: Adjust your diet to include foods that help balance the qualities of Autumn Favour warm, cooked foods over raw and cold ones Include nourishing soups, stews, and cooked vegetables in your meals Incorporate warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric, which can aid digestion and boost immunity
2 Stay Hydrated: As the weather becomes cooler, it's easy to overlook hydration which is crucial for maintaining balance Drink warm or room temperature water throughout the day Herbal teas with warming herbs like ginger, cardamom, or holy basil (tulsi) can also be beneficial
3 Establish a Routine: A consistent daily routine (dinacharya) helps create a sense of stability during the changing seasons Wake up and sleep at regular times to ensure you get adequate rest Create a routine that includes self-care practices like oil massage (abhyanga), meditation, and yoga to promote balance and relaxation
4 Practise Mindful Eating: An increase in the Vata dosha during Autumn can lead to digestive disturbances Take time to sit down, eat slowly, and savour your meals Avoid overeating or skipping meals Chew your food thoroughly to aid digestion
5 Engage in Grounding Activities: To balance the light, dry, and mobile qualities of Autumn, engage in grounding activities Spend time in nature, walking or practising yoga outdoors
Connect with the earth by gardening or walking barefoot on grass Grounding activities can help calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of stability It's important to remember that while general tips and guidelines can be helpful, Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine that takes into account an individual's unique constitution, imbalances, and specific health concerns Consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner is highly recommended to receive personalised advice and guidance that suits your individual needs
A healthy smile is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also contributes to your general wellbeing It boosts confidence, enhances social interactions, and indicates good overall health Achieving a healthy smile involves more than just brushing your teeth
Dr Joe Bansal, who is an expert in treatments related to cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry at IKON, discusses 5 important factors to achieving that perfect smile
Oral Hygiene Routine: Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is crucial for a healthy smile Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste and (ideally) an electric toothbrush Spend 2 minutes brushing all the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line Using floss or interdental brushes will remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where a toothbrush can't reach
Balanced Diet: A well-balanced diet plays a significant role in oral health Minimise sugary and acidic foods and drinks (including sparkling water) as they can contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains will provide essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus, which are vital for strong teeth and healthy gums
Regular Dental Visits: These are essential for maintaining a healthy smile Visiting your dentist and hygienist every six months for an examination and professional clean can help detect early signs of dental issues, such as tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancer and provide appropriate treatment before they escalate into more significant problems
Proper Teeth Alignment: Correct teeth alignment is not just about aesthetics; it also impacts oral health Crooked or misaligned teeth can make oral hygiene more challenging, leading to a higher risk of gum disease and tooth decay Consult an IKON Dental orthodontist if you have concerns about your teeth alignment We can recommend suitable treatments such as fixed braces or Invisalign clear aligners to help straighten your teeth
Harmful Habits: Certain habits can harm your oral health and affect your smile Avoid smoking and using tobacco products such as Vapes as they increase the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer
Additionally, be mindful of teeth grinding or clenching, as it can lead to tooth wear and jaw pain If you engage in these habits, consider seeking professional help from IKON Dental to quit or manage them effectively
By following this advice and visiting the experienced specialist team at IKON Dental, you can maintain a vibrant and healthy smile that will improve your long-term wellbeing
ORDO SONIC + £40
PHILIPS SONICARE 9900 £299 99
SURI SUSTAINABLE TOOTHBRUSH £95
Nevertheless, there is something quite comforting in the transition to Autumnal wear. We speak to Ealingbased TV presenter, model and influencer Riana Horner about her local picks for the season
"Autumn/Winter is my personal favourite fashion season - cosy knits, thigh high boots and layers upon layers to experiment with; what’s not to love? And after witnessing some incredible AW23 collections during London Fashion Week earlier this year, I’m even more excited for the upcoming months
‘Quiet luxury’ is first and foremost the trend I’ll be taking inspiration from Once upon a time sporting flashy logos was cool But this year you’ll make more of a statement if you ’ re modest with the luxury brands you wear ‘If you know, you know’
There are plenty of shops in Ealing where you can kit out a premium yet understated wardrobe Start by elevating your staple pieces - think well-tailored trousers, silk shirts and cashmere jumpers I love this knitted halter neck top from Frank and Salvi (1) Combined with some figure hugging jeans from Stuff (2), a pair of classic backless loafers from Accessorize (3) and finished with a Frank and Salvi trench coat (4), and you ’ ve curated the perfect quiet luxury autumn outfit
A beloved childhood favourite has made its way back into our lives Yep, bows - and I’m here for it This statement bow-collared blouse from H&M (5) will instantly lift any look once paired with some basic trousers or a skirt, carrying you from the office to after-work drinks with the girls For the party season, this gold bow mini skirt from River Island (6) is both fun and classy Or these stunning H&M sling back shoes (7) will help you nail the trend
Finally, The colour red is also expected to trend throughout the second half of the year These Hobbs tapered trousers from M&S (8) will make the perfect addition to your office wardrobe this season For the evening, River Island has you covered for all your social events, like this classy red A-line midi dress with sleeves (9) If you want to incorporate this bold colour trend in a more subtle way, add this red Arket ring (10) to a neutral outfit, or accessorise with a red hand bag (11) "
Frique London is a luxury leather goods private label based in Ealing It also offers Made-To-Order and Bespoke services
The brand was conceived of whilst the founder, Ade, was stuck on a train at Ealing Broadway station It was the start of a wild adventure that led to the birth of Frique London in December 2021
Frique is an alternative to the well known luxury brands; offering high quality for less
Every bag in the collection is inspired by people and places dear to the founder's heart Frique London bags are intricate, refined and exquisite
www friquelondon com
Penny Grace Knitwear is a design-led, slow fashion brand creating fun, colourful, long lasting and beautifully knitted accessories
Designs include wristwarmers, snoods, scarfs, beanie hats and blankets for both adults and children
Penny Grace Knitwear was founded by Helen in summer 2022 She designs and makes everything from her home studio in Hanwell, West London She knits with British spun Geelong lambswool, comparable to cashmere for its warmth and luxurious softness The knitting is made on her hand powered domestic knitting machine, it is gently felted to produce a denser but still lightweight fabric, and then hand finished
www.pennygraceknitwear.co.uk
Gina Rivellini Jewellery designs and makes handmade and handcrafted sterling silver jewellery
Gina is a local jeweller, creating her pieces from her workshop in Hanwell Wherever possible, Gina works with mainly recycled sterling silver and likes to adorn her jewellery with gemstones She finds vintage glass beads and cabochons to upcycle into new jewellery With a focus on sustainability, Gina strives to use all her silver, creating stud earrings with offcuts She sources reuseable/recyclable packaging for her gift boxes
Gina Rivellini jewellery can be purchased at https://crafters market/shop/ginarivellini-jewellery/
Jewellery: Bottlebee
Stylist: Bethan Cooke
Make-up: Troy Clarke
Hair: Jade Campbell
Photographer and CD: Ian Hippolyte
Photographer's Assistant: Ben Moxham
Bottlebee Sustainable Jewellery Made in Ealing
EALINGLIVING | FASHION
completely freezing, you could do with an extra layer. Enter the mac. We've chosen our top five for women set to elevate your autumn look.
And now imagine the same scenario, but you ' re a bloke...
At what stage in your life did you first move to Ealing?
I am originally from the Isle of Man, and graduated in 1998 from the Surrey institute of art and design, now part of the University Of the Arts London At age 22 I moved to Ealing and started working in Pizza Express Bond Street But after a year I started working in Bronze Age fine art foundry in Limehouse London where I developed my ceramic shell bronze casting skills Eventually I moved to Arch bronze foundry in Putney in 2004 And soon set up my own studio at the London museum of water and steam, at Kew Bridge, London and in 2014 founded MouldMaking UK I spent most of my 24 year career working in bronze foundries, producing artworks for high profile artists like Eduardo Paolozzi, Marc Quinn, Maggi Hambling and Nicola Hicks
If you were telling someone about Ealing who had never visited, how would you describe it?
Ealing is an amazing transport hub linking west London with other parts of the west of England The trains and new Elizabeth line head out towards Reading
It's a very green borough and I am proud to notice that we have recently been reducing our trimming and cutting of wild spaces There are some places in Ealing that I would call Urban Wildernesses - Lammas park community orchard and South Ealing cemetery, being two of many of my favourites
Do you have a favourite watering hole? My most regularly visited pub is the Rose and Crown behind St Mary’s Church Because of its large beer garden And after that it would be the Red Lion Visited by the crew and actors of Ealing Studios over the years
Occasionally, I like to visit Crispins, on Ealing Green, for a late night tipple It has the ambiance of a French wine bar, frequented by famous impressionist artists And there have certainly been many a ground breaking idea poised by myself and my fellow artists, over the years
Where have you had your best Ealing meal?
It’s hard to pinpoint the best meal I’ve had in Ealing Cote brasserie actually makes an amazing cooked breakfast with Boudin Noir instead of black pudding A much softer alternative Loro di Napoli in South Ealing quite possibly makes the best pizza And I love the Panang Curry in the Hare and Tortoise on Haven Green
Is there a part of Ealing that you find particularly inspirational or where you find peace?
An amazing part of Ealing is Ealing Village in North Ealing A 1930’s art deco building built for the crew of Ealing studios It has its own swimming pool, tennis courts and clubhouse Situated in the spanning communal gardens I lived in 5 different flats there over a 17 year period It was once a really friendly community, which met every Sunday morning for coffee, croissants and newspapers in the club house And their annual summer BBQs and Christmas parties were kicking!!! We moved out of there in 2015, which we were really sad about
Pitzhanger Manor and Walpole Park have always been a massive part of my Ealing life And over the last few years I have been showing my work there, annually in the Rickyard as part of BEAT
Tell us what youre up to & what's next for you.
In the first week of September I will be opening my studio as part of the Brentford Creative mile 1st and 2nd Sept 2023 I am taking over the blacksmiths forge at the steam museum Where there has been a working blacksmith for 200 years So this will be the first time I am opening the new doors to the public In the second two weekends in September I will be holding our annual show at the Rickyard in Walpole park as part of the famous Borough of Ealing Art Trail with amazing artist and designer Andrea Tierny
I will be showing my newest solid, lost wax cast, bronze bowls, jewellery and other small items for the home My newest bowls have been cast with real leaves from nearby trees, impregnated permanently in the bronze And I am really excited to see the reaction to this new style that I am unveiling for this show I am hoping that people will be inspired to commission me to make bowls from trees that they find personally and conceptually significant And I will be showing a bowl made from a tree that is specifically important to me too People will be able to hear the story when they come in to see me at the show on the 9th-10th and 16th-17th September 2023 Location 24+ the Rickyard www.neillemaire.com
Jolanta Pluwak is the founder of lifestyle boutique Fifty Shades of Taupe, selling interiors, fashion, jewellery and other passions on Ranelagh Rd, South Ealing. We spoke to her about what inspired her to set up the store and how she chooses her ware
I moved to Ealing 21 years ago and at the time had a couture wedding business. I drove past the shop (which at the time was a wedding shop) and vowed that some day it would be mine
Five and a half years ago I rented a part of that same store from a friend and started selling my homewares and knitwear The collections gradually expanded and I took it over fully last July at which point I repainted it, refurbished it and renamed it Fifty Shades Of Taupe
I call my shop a lifestyle boutique I have a passion for sourcing practical, beautiful, good quality and natural products I love curating my collections so that they fit perfectly into the ambiance of my shop Essentially, the shop is an extension of my home
I stock interiors, fashions and other passions luxurious but affordable jewellery; beautiful natural Scottish and South African blankets and throws; stunning Portuguese ceramics as well as great knitwear; organic cotton, merino wool, lambswool and cashmere mix and cashmere to order
My brand also makes a range of organic cotton jersey dresses and silk beach kaftans. I stock some well-recognised brands, like candle and diffuser brand Plum and Ashby (I have an exclusivity for the Ealing area) I also stock jewellery by Pranella, Rachel Jackson ad Scream Pretty as well as other less known brands and my own designs. The knitwear available at Fifty Shades of Taupe is exclusively made for us
I also have a lovely selection of cards and small affordable gifts; garden pots; garden mirrors; lamps; candelabras: beautiful faux flowers; notebooks; soaps It's all a curated collection of things I love and that my customers love too www.fiftyshadesoftaupe.co.uk
This season is all about picking up and packing down before the arrival of winter. We asked Simon from The Little Garden People on Boston Road what are his top tips for making the most of our Autumn gardens
1 Cutting back
After a growthful spring and summer season, the first priority in any person ' s garden is to cut back any overgrown shrubs, annuals and any vegetables which have given all there is to give for this growing season Cutting back and clearing is crucial to the forthcoming months in your garden as this allows for vital growing areas in your garden to be utilised and fulfilled to their full potential (winter veggies) So now you have a considerably large amount of plant material from all the cutting back, this can be put back to use as mulch or compost Once broken down these magical leaves can enrich your soil with nutrients and also will be a helping hand to suppress weeds
2 Protecting vulnerable plants
As I travel around Ealing I cannot help but notice there is an abundance of tropical and tender plants flourishing throughout the summer months As the weather gets warmer, we are able to grow these stunning specimens, however during the winter months these plants will need a helping hand going into autumn in order to return year after year A few jobs that seem very small will give great impact to these plants come next summer Mulch on the ground around tubers and perennials will protect from ground frost Use materials to wrap pots with bubble wrap to save root temperatures from dropping down into the minuses Where you can, bring tender exotic plants inside such as musa (banana plant) , citrus plants, alocasia and cannas Another option is to bring vulnerable pots close to the wall of your house, this will allow the warmth from your home to keep the pots from freezing If you have any doubt whether your plant is tender, seek advice online or, of course, visit us in store and we will be happy to advise you
3 Plant bulbs and winter veggies
Let the vegetable party carry on! August is the best time to plant winter vegetables and planting them now will get them established against the inevitable frost My top five hardy vegetables are: kale (midnight sun), spinach (gigante d'inverno, cabbage (cabbice), Swiss chard (bright lights) and my favourite, garlic (carcassonne wight) There are also plenty more you can plant this winter including winter bulbs, these little bundles of colour get overlooked as most gardeners think of planting colour in spring For example, Oxalis (versicolor), tulip (estella rijnveld), Allium (hair), Fritillaria (meleagris), Muscari (soulmate)
4 Helping hand for wildlife
Birds and other wildlife can find it difficult to survive winter months and finding food can also be tough once the ground is frozen You can lend a helping hand by hanging sunflower seeds, peanuts or mealworms You can also make your own fat balls to keep costs down using left overs including butter, peanuts, oats, currants and a little bit of twine, which the birds will be forever grateful for It also provides a lovely watch out of your window as birds flock in for your homemade meals
5. Enjoy your garden
Take time to appreciate your garden and the space around you which you have created This extensive method of self-soothing and getting lost in time whilst pottering around your self built space, however large or small is, for me, food for the soul It allows me time away from the busy hustle of life where I can be the master of my own creation and enjoy watching growth, change and colour which I am responsible for This gives me a sense of peace, serenity and achievement and the enthusiasm to involve other people around me to do the same So what are you waiting for? Start now and embrace everything nature has to offer!
www.instagram.com/thelittlegardenpeople
Bring the outdoors in by coordinating your soft furnishings and home accessories with your houseplants As a print, leafy motifs bring in a fresh but fairly neutral appearance which can be further enhanced by leafy trinkets and knick-knacks Here are our picks...
Biophilic design, which describes the act of incorporating nature in your home design has been proven to make one happier, healthier and more productive We asked Lewis Cox at Urban Tropicana on Northfields Avenue which plants work best for bringing the outdoors in
Ficus (Rubber Plant) is a must have to any indoor jungle and they are pretty easy to care for Ficus thrive in bright light but might start to burn if left in strong, direct light for too long Give the leaves a wipe fortnightly to help keep them healthy and to remove dust For extra impact consider using a leaf shine spray to really boost their look and make their leaves glisten Let the top two inches of the soil dry out before watering The leaves also absorb moisture so get the mister out every few days and give them a good spray
Sansevieria (Snake Plants) is a truly remarkable and striking easy care houseplant Known for being almost unkillable, it really is the perfect plant for known plant assassins They prefer medium to bright indirect light, but can also tolerate lower light levels as well as direct sun, so it really is an extremely adaptable plant Water Sansevieria only when the soil is completely dry and even if you forget to water them for several weeks they will forgive you
Epipremnum N’Joy (Pothos) A stunning variegated trailing plant, its delicate leaves with a rich green centre spreading out to white edges of its leaves They prefer bright indirect sun, but can be quite adaptable and will be fine in a spot with low light Allow the top inch to dry out between waterings and ensure there is good drainage to prevent soggy soil Popping it in the shower once every few weeks will help clean the leaves and keep it looking fresh For all indoor plants make sure to use a decent fertiliser
www.urbantropicana.co.uk
Any celebration with fireworks can be an unsettling and sometimes a traumatic time for dogs. Most 'dogparents' are aware of the dos and don’ts on the evenings of firework celebrations But there are steps that can be implemented before Bonfire Night to help settle our pups and keep them safe. We spoke to Ealing dog walker Shanice Noble about her top tips for keeping your dog safe during the upcoming festivities:
Lessen the shock factor of sudden, loud sounds
You can do this by playing firework audios or videos at a low volume at first, then gradually increasing the volume overtime It is best to progressively do these exercises in the weeks leading up to the celebration dates where firework displays are likely The Kennel Club has their own Spotify playlist for this very exercise You should try to remain as calm as possible, even if your dog is reacting to sounds On the night of the firework celebration, leaving the radio or TV on at a respectable level (to be mindful of your neighbours), will help drown out the outdoor sounds
Create a calm, safe zone away from windows and doors.
Their special place might be their crate or a nook within your home where they happily curl up If your dog does not yet have a space like this within your home, you can create one It all starts with a comfy base and a select few of your dog’s comforts Chews and snuffle activities may also be included in their ‘den ’ This area should remain a positive space
Exercise, feed then wind down
On the days leading up to the firework celebration and on the day of, the following routine can help your dog remain settled indoors for the evening If your dog likes to go out for a walk or run, it is extremely important that you try to stick to going out when it's light; Then feed them their usual feed (if they eat a meal at night); then engage in a calm activity, away from windows and doors The activity can be a homemade enrichment exercise - such as the pretzel roll (using a towel and broken up treats or kibble), a treat dispensing toy, LickiMat, snuffle mat or puzzle game Having some background sounds (radio, music or TV), is useful for this part of the routine too This winding down routine can help dogs settle and doing it over an extended period of time - not just on the days that fireworks will be present, can make all the difference
We never want to welcome the worst case scenario, but it is best for us to be proactive and prepare Ensuring that the information on your dog’s ID tag is up to date, the text or QR code is legible (some become worn overtime) and that your dog’s microchip details are correct/updated too, could all help you reunite with your dog(s) if they ever get lost after hearing a shocking loud noise
Secure Your Home
Not just for firework display preparation, but throughout the year, diminish the chances of your dog escaping from your home Regularly check that the doors, windows and outdoor areas are secure Dogs should not be out walking (even on fixed leads or training leads), whilst fireworks are being set off It’s safer for them to be securely at home
A note especially for the owners of anxious pups: I would love for you to consider making sure that your anxious fur-child has some company, for at least some of the evening when firework displays are in full swing If each of the household members will be heading out and your family members and friends are not available to support with dog care, in Ealing we have some reputable Dog Walkers and Sitters that you may be able to hire ahead of time If you are concerned about your dog’s anxiety, please make an appointment and discuss further with your dog’s vet A behaviourist may be recommended for severe cases
Priyanka is a British-born Indian who started her business in the hope of reigniting the lost power within women and girls
Candalin was created to be a symbol of support to women who have suffered sexual abuse Being a victim herself, Priyanka has never been able to talk about any form of abuse openly Her brand was a way of helping her to heal whilst also being able to create a product that brings comfort to all
At Candalin they believe every candle ignites courage, power, and creativity
The brand has been crafted to give every woman a unique experience when lighting their candles Every scent has a motivating message behind it, to raise awareness and remind women they are influential, strong and courageous
To support vulnerable women and girls this year Priyanka has chosen to work with Rape Crisis and donate 2% of every sale to end sexual harassment and any form of sexual abuse
At what stage in your life did you first move to Ealing?
Ealing is home I have lived in Ealing for as long as I can remember It has a special place in my heart, the buzz and the excitement is what always draws me back home
` If you were telling someone about Ealing who had never visited, how would you describe it?
Ealing is rich in diversity You can enjoy and delicious Lebanese take away or have a chilled relaxing Sunday evening at The Grange It has a bit of everything
Where have you had your best Ealing meal?
My favourite place to eat in Ealing is Santa Maria pizza on Bond street The authenticity of the food is incredible
Is there a part of Ealing that you find particularly inspirational or where you find peace? West Ealing Northfields is a part of early that I find incredibly peaceful, it has stunning parks and beautiful roads with period properties which brings me back to the rich British culture
Tell us what you ' re up to at the moment.
Exciting things are ahead this winter for Candalin We have incredible shows coming and a revamp of the brand, which I can’t wait to share in the coming months!
www candalin com
At the beginning of 2022, Sharon & Sayu Sinha made headlines by transforming a derelict Ealing house into a completely unrecognisable perfect family home Their Instagram account @that ealing feeling, which now has over 30k followers, shows their wonderful interiors journey which inspired them to develop Room AI, to help people develop their own houses. We spoke to them about the app, about current trends and about their approach to interior design
At Room AI, we are passionate about using cutting-edge AI technology to transform the way people approach interior design Our app uses AI and machine learning models to analyse your room ' s layout and style Whether you are renovating your home or simply looking to refresh a room, Room AI can help you to achieve your design goals with ease and efficiency
What are the most popular interior design styles in 2023?
Some of the most popular interior design styles I'm seeing in 2023 include modern farmhouse, contemporary minimalism, and bringing elements of nature into the home with lots of plants, rattan and wood textures Neutral, earthy colour palettes are still going strong Also seeing a lot of bold saturated colours like deep blues, and plaster walls to add texture, are proving popular!
What should you consider when you ' re choosing your interiors?
When choosing interiors, you first need to consider your lifestyle and needs Do you have kids or pets that require durable fabrics? What's your budget? Also look at the architecture and layout of your home - you want to complement what's already there I always start by figuring out my goal for each room before selecting any specific pieces
Do you think its better to go for one idea throughout the house or go for lots of different ideas?
When designing a space, lifestyle factors still need to be considered first But also think about adding small luxe details like faux fur throws or velvet cushions to create an inviting, glam feel through "micro-luxury " Mixing traditional elements like plaster walls with modern saturated colours can make for an eclectic, personalised look
Where do you gather inspiration from?
I tend to mix up styles between rooms, to keep things interesting! Having a cohesive overall feel is good but playing with different trends in different spaces brings personality I might do hotel luxe in the living room and modern farmhouse kitchen with some contemporary features to accent the space When designing our family home, I loved the idea of contrasting the classic Tom Howley kitchen, with industrial crittal doors!
How can Room AI app help people to choose their own style?
For inspiration, I browse interior design magazines and accounts on Instagram and Pinterest I also find inspiration from nature, travel, art and fashion I'm always noticing little details like a textile pattern or colour combination that sparks new ideas
The Room AI app is great for experimenting with different interior design styles You can upload a photo of any room and let artificial intelligence (AI) take over and provide you with various different styles and themes, which you can use as inspiration! It’s easier than starting with a blank piece of paper, and provides endless inspiration for redesigning rooms or testing out new ideas! This app was born from the challenges that we faced as a family when trying to picture our home when completed It's an easy way to preview options and find what works best for your home's architecture and your personal taste
One of the best things about the Autumn is taking a long walk through beautiful mutli-coloured woods as the leaves perform their annual transition Here are three nearby woodland walks that are perfect for you and for the kids
PERIVALE WOODS - Perivale Wood is an 27 hectare area and one of the oldest nature reserves in Britain It's mainly ancient oak woodland, with coppiced hazel and swathes of bluebells in the spring One of its key selling point is the (free) Gruffalo Trail which is ideal for any little Donaldson fans.
PENN WOOD - Penn Wood is one of the largest ancient woodlands in the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It's the perfect setting for woodland adventures, foraging or a spot of bird spotting and only 30 minutes from home.
BLACK PARK - With family friendly attractions, such as the adventure playground and Go Ape, miles of beautiful woodland tracks and trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, Black Park is only half an hour from Ealing and a fabulous morning out.
AMORINO £4.80
BLACK SHEEP from £5.89
ARISE COFFEE ROASTERS from £2.80
Over the last couple of decades or so Hallowe’en has changed beyond recognition Costumes have become more and more outlandish, preparation has had to become a military operation and the trick or treat take-homes are often enough to stock a sweet shop Grown humans turn up at work dressed as Lucifer and have been known to wish each other a ‘Happy Hallowe’en’ as they pass each other in the street These, in my (only slightly grumpy) opinion, are strange times
Nevertheless, as the parent of small children, the excitement can take over the household on about October 2nd To make the day slightly more palatable to you, we ’ ve written a five point plan for surviving Hallowe’en as the parent of small people:
Don’t automatically leap onto Amazon
I know it’s tempting to jump onto your computer as soon there’s a need for a costume (here’s looking at you, Great Fire of London Day) but with a small amount of planning, there is an alternative
Charity shops with a children’s section are an excellent source of costumes as, because they’re rarely daily attire, they’re often as good as new For example, I’ve found some absolute winners at Fara on Ealing Green
Many people say the opposite ‘ as you won’t be tempted to eat them all if there are leftovers ’ I don’t subscribe to that crap If there are leftovers, celebrate your survival of what’s now called a ‘holiday’ by eating them
4 Set a short route and stick to it
It’s possible to be out on the street for three or four hours if you don’t have a succinct plan Go up and down 2 or 3 streets and your child will have a perfectly decent amount of sugar to brag about
Top tip for newbies: The general rule is, if the house isn’t dressed for Hallowe’en (i e there’s no pumpkin outside) don’t knock
5 Stick up a note on your door at 7/7.30 that says you ’ ve run out of sweets
OK, this may seem a bit miserable but, in my humble opinion, Hallowe’en is for little kids If you ’ re old enough to be walking the streets alone and knocking on people’s doors at 7 30pm, you ’ re too old to be trick or treating It’s scary for older people to have a teenager with a Scream mask hammering at their door in the dark; and, quite frankly, it gets in the way of my supper
Spooky Trail...
However organised you think you ’ re being, inclement weather, last minute misplacements or a random stubborn change of mind may mean coming up with an alternative costume at the last minute
I’m not necessarily condoning the idea of pandering to a child’s petulant whim but perhaps have a super simple (and cheap) costume on the bench e g stick a couple of tubes of smarties to a pair of pants for a simple Smartie Pants costume; buy an extra couple of loo rolls and wrap your child in it for a quick Mummy look or dress your kid in black, stuff a couple of pairs of black tights, pin them to their back and you have a spider Added bonus is, if they see what they look like in the alternative costume, they may return to Plan A with less of a fuss
Northfields Allotments do a fab Hallowe’en trail complete with skeletons that pop up and plenty of ghoulish surprises
Where to start
The roads off Pitshanger Lane are an excellent place for beginnerspractically no cars and tonnes of participating houses - some with absolutely fantastic decoration
Professional Carving...
Gunnersbury Park host a pumpkin carving class for children aged 4 and above
MANY PEOPLE RECOMMEND BUYING SWEETS YOU DON’T LIKE ‘AS YOU WON’T BE TEMPTED TO EAT THEM ALL IF THERE ARE LEFTOVERS.’
I DON’T SUBSCRIBE TO THAT CRAP.
Going back to school after the long summer break can bring with it a whole range of feelings for both children and parents
Feelings of excitement, anticipation and anxiety are all completely normal It might be that your child is starting a new school, transitioning to Secondary school or just moving to a new class. For most children this anxiety will gradually fade as they settle back in; however, Dr Cyna Neave from Little Branch Child Psychology Service in South Ealing offers up a few tips that can help you and your child feel a little more prepared
LISTEN
Try to talk to your child and listen to any worries they might have about going back to school It can be very helpful to let them know how normal it is to have these feelings Listening and validating your child’s fears and worries can be enough to help them to feel better Some children might also benefit from talking to an older sibling/cousin or family friend who might have some helpful words of encouragement for them
If your child is seeking a lot of reassurance, it can be helpful to try to get them to problem solve for themselves So instead of being quick to reassure; “don’t worry you will be fine” respond to them with a question instead; “have you felt worried in the past? What helped you then/what have you tried in the past? What advice would you give your friend who said they were worried about going back to school? Children tend to respond better to solutions that they come up with themselves
There are a number of things you can do to help prepare your child for the return to school As the new school year approaches it can be helpful to get children back into a good bedtime and mealtime routine Also involving them in some of the preparation; such as choosing a new pencil case/school bag and arranging a playdate with a school friend can be part of a helpful back to school process If they are starting a new school some children will benefit from giving the school journey a trial run, so they feel more confident when it comes to the first day back
Self-care remains an important part of our ability to manage the wellbeing of our children If we look after ourselves as parents and carers, then we will be more able to look after those around us Children look to the adults around them for emotional cues and so trying to manage your own anxiety and remain positive about your child’s return to school can be really helpful This is relevant in advance of the return to school but also at drop off times at the school gates
If you are particularly concerned about your child’s return to school then it can be helpful to speak to the school in advance of the return to think about some steps they might be able to take to support your child Finally, if you feel your child’s anxiety is having a significant impact on their day-to-day life and does not appear to be settling over time then it could be worth seeking specialist advice www littlebranch co uk
Ayurveda takes into consideration not only on the human body and how it operates within itself, but on the connection with the universe around it It focuses on naturally grown ingredients and uses them to nourish the skin and hair, inside and out When, for example, you see an Ayurvedic doctor about acne or eczema, they won’t just have their skin examined; they’ll also be asked about diet, menstrual cycle, and state of mind
According to Ayurveda, a person ’ s skin type is based on the three doshas These are bioenergetic or life forces that make up the constitution of the body and mind They are vata (wind), pitta (fire) and kapha (water and earth ) A vata-dominant person has dry and rough skin; high pitta tend to
have oily skin that may be prone to acne and rosacea; Kapha skin tends to be cold and oily, and it may be prone to pimples
We've chosen a few brands that could start you on your Ayurvedic journey
1 Ranavat Cleansing Balm, £55; 2 Fable & Mane Holiroots Pre-Wash Strengthening Treatment Hair Oil, £14; 3 iYURA Yauvari Youth Spring | Moisturiser for Dry, Ageing Skin, £44; 4 Forest Essentials Ayurvedic Soundarya Advanced Serum With 24 Karat Gold, £64; 5 Urban Veda Radiance Body Oil, £35; 6 Champo Vata Hydrating Shampoo, £18 50; Curls & Lengths Mint & Cocoa Ayurvedic Hair Mask/Butter, £21 97
One of the more popular hair trends of the year is copper-coloured hair Celebrities like Riley Keough and Phoebe Dynevor have dipped into the bottle, serving up inspiration for this gorgeous trend that complements the season so well
We spoke to Jasmine Doyle from Yuzu Hair & Beauty, off Ealing Broadway, about how to look after your hair if you ' ve gone down this stylish route.
1. CHOOSE YOUR TONE
Because there are so many different tone options, copper can look great on most skin tones It's really about matching the right red to your skin tone The general rule of thumb is if you have a warmer complexion, you can typically go for a cooler-reddy copper In contrast, if you have a cooler complexion, you would feel more comfortable with a golden Auburn tone But, of course, this is generally speaking and there are exceptions
2. CREATE A SCHEDULE
Whether you visit the salon or take matters into your own hands at home, colouring your hair every four to six weeks is ideal to avoid fading Depending on the growth rate and your preferred colour service, you may be able to stretch this to eight weeks with a solid routine
3. CLOSE YOUR CUTICLES
A healthy closed cuticle is the answer to your problems if you have coloured hair When the hair cuticle is open, it allows red/orange pigments to escape However, a healthy closed cuticle can trap moisture, water & colour inside the hair strand To ensure your cuticle is closed, you must get regular cuts (the most important), add moisture back into the hair by using products like oils and leave-in conditioners, and rinsing with cool water will help keep your hair healthy and thus keep your colour healthy too
4. SHIELD YOUR RED HAIR FROM THE HEAT
Heat is the culprit of the dreaded fade so it's a good idea to follow specific rules to avoid damage No matter what style you ’ re going for, apply a heat protector to create a protective shield around the hair's cuticle Use heat styling tools that let you control the temperature level and keep the setting in the 200 - 300 degree range to prevent thermal shock - this happens when hair heats up too quickly and moisture escapes all at once Never style your hair when it’s damp When the hair is wet, the cuticle opens, making strands susceptible to damage Straighteners and curlers should be used on dry hair only
5 STEP UP YOUR SHOWER GAME
Washing your hair is when fading is most likely to happen It’s best to only use shampoo two to three times per week and use formulas that are colour-safe & sulphate-free to help preserve your shade and natural oils (put that clarifying shampoo away!) In general you should cut down on how frequently you wash your hair - remember dry shampoo and cold water are your friend!
www.yuzuhairandbeauty.london
Colour-treated hair needs a little extra attention if you want your colour to last long. Nothing is worse than spending money at your hair salon for the newest trending colour and then having it fade after a week because you haven't taken care of your locks.
You don't want to use just any old shampoo if you ' re trying to keep your coloured hair looking fresh If you use a regular shampoo, it may be too harsh and will strip out the colour in only a few washes
Instead, we'd recommend a shampoo that is specifically formulated for dry or coloured hair to ensure the moisture is locked in and your colour continues to look salon-ready Here are our top three:
I’m a little bit obsessed with glowing skin I can’t exactly pinpoint exactly when this obsession began but I did celebrate a significant birthday at the end of last year and have noticed a number of changes in my complexion over the past few years Whilst I do consider myself somewhat of a skincare addict, I have long felt that I could do with a bit of expert guidance
I’ve followed Justine Masters on Instagram for a while and have always been struck by her own natural glow She works out of three different locations: South Moulton Street, Triyoga Shoreditch and Triyoga Ealing, in Dickens Yard, giving fabulous, glow-giving facials
I went for a bespoke facial with Justine in Dicken's Yard Triyoga. She began the session with a consultation during which she asked me to tell her three things that concern me about my skin and what I would like to work on She then adapted the facial, from the treatment to the products, to my skin concerns and skin type
The bespoke nature of Justine's treatment is very specific - she hand-blends products and masques to each client’s needs. She does a deep dive into diet, lifestyle, and stress and, if the body needs to be relaxed, she also uses reiki within her treatments She works with two brands: Dermaviduals and Osmosis Skincare which are both non-toxic and free from emulsifiers, perfumes, and preservatives They're also oncology and breastfeeding safe
Leaving Justine's treatment I felt the glow - with calm, with health, with radiance my complexion was recognisably different immediately The Bespoke Facial is £125 with which you receive an email with suggestions on supplement, skincare and lifestyle changes
My key skin issue is ageing (sigh, so predictable) but Justine refused to acknowledge this term because of its negative undertones Ageing is an inevitable fact; your skin doesn't have to necessarily suffer as a result of it. Her recommendation for me was to use calm retinal aka Vitamin A which reduces oil production in the T zone but also works on fine lines and wrinkles and brightens and tightens the skin as it speeds up cell production Her three top tips were to make sure I was using the correct skincare for my skin concerns; to cleanse at night with a gentle cleanser and to (of course!) wear SPF daily
Nathalie Hrayssi Kaur is an Ealing-based Ayurvedic Consultant and Ayurveda for Women Consultant She learned and qualified with Ayurvedic Physicians and Doctors in Pune, and in Lucknow, India and has been studying and learning Ayurveda since 2000 We spoke to her about the Ayurvedic take on food and how we can incorporate the principals into our own diets
Knowledge of food, diet, nutrition and cooking constitutes a fundamental pillar of Ayurveda - whose best translation may be “science” of “life” (from sanskrit ayur: life and veda: “knowledge/science ”) Drawing from over 5000 years of knowledge and information, Ayurveda gives us a very comprehensive and factual approach to food and eating habits and how these define and determine the health of an individual
Not all Health Food is Good Food: just because it is organic, fresh, nutritious doesn’t mean it will do you good! (Although that's not to say that junk food is preferable!) Yes, as much as possible one must strive to source the best quality product, local, seasonal, well cooked and eaten fresh but there are main factors to look into before eating:
- current state of health/ digestion - right food combining - state of mind whilst eating (& cooking!)
- the time of the year (climate and weather) and time of the day one eats
It also vital to look at food combination: because it is all good, it won’t necessarily combine well in your digestive system and thus will remain as undigested food that creates more trouble than goodness If food doesn’t get digested, whilst some of it gets expelled, the remaining undigested food becomes toxin “Ama” in the system
Beware of Superfoods: These often spring from trends and just people often think that because they're superfoods, it's ok to consume them excessively One example is Ashwagandha: a so-called adaptogen, which is currently extremely popular for various symptoms However taken in excess and unnecessarily, it can create inflammation Note that this doesn’t change its many healing properties Another one is the famous Tumeric, which can also create inflammation in the body if taken in excess or not cooked appropriately
It's not only Food that we Digest: Traumatic experiences can affect the digestive tract - all the sensory input one receives also need to be digested, and impact our digestive system
Sugar & Fats arent the Enemy: It goes without saying that candies, processed desserts, refined sugars, sweets, cakes and factory produced desserts are a no-no However; raw unrefined organic sugar, rock candy, jaggery in moderation are not unhealthy at all and can be used in great moderation and in their unrefined form Raw, cold pressed, uncooked unrefined fats are very important for brain health, joint lubrication, body tissues nourishment and overall body strength
It's not what you eat; it's what you digest that matters: Undigested matter (be it food, emotions, thoughts, experiences ) can become toxic and lead to disease www yogalondres-co-uk
The oh-so-popular olive is where the story of Tastes Of The Mediterranean begins! 'Olives made into a savoury jam?' their founder pondered She wrote a recipe, made the jam and their first product was made That was in 2019 Since then, their olive jam has won a Great Taste award and they have added a further 25 flavours and other products to their range They use lots of locally and homegrown produce in many of their jams, chutneys, savoury jams, chilli jams, hot sauces and marmalades They also sell Turkish delight Available at Crawford's butchers (Oldfield Circus), Cheddar Deli (Northfields), Askwine (Acton) and online at www tastesofthemed co uk
Prices from £3.50
The Dodo of Hanwell Rum, launched in 2022 by The Dodo Micropub is a UK distilled craft rum perfect for sipping slowly and savouring. Following on from the successful launch of The Dodo of Hanwell Gin, the rum was a passion project bringing together the very best flavours from dark rum and dark beer The base notes are caramel and butterscotch with a hint of cacao nibs and coffee on the finish
£39.40 per 70cl bottle, 40% abv Available via the web shop or from The Dodo Micropub
The brand's recipes are based on Yayakas (grandmothers) from around Greece, making sure that their stories reach their customers through their delicacies It is their belief that tradition should be cherished which is why they make their pies, specifically, in the old fashioned but nonetheless artisan way: hand-rolled on a wooden board, with a slim wooden stick that gives each phyllo the perfect size, shape and texture
Yayaka collaboraes with various small businesses from all over Greece, who send top quality produce to incorporate in their menu, making sure that every bite is authentic
www.yayaka.co.uk
Specialising in made to order, chocolate ‘brownies’ and ‘blondies’, BAKE-BOX is a mother-daughter venture, that started its humble journey from their Ealing-based kitchen in December 2019 With a mission to create tasty, handmade treats, suitable for gifting, the baking duo began with creating personalised treat boxes The business grew a strong fan base after introducing their ‘postal friendly’ brownies and blondies, allowing buyers to send treats across the UK and connect with loved ones throughout the pandemic
Prices start from £14 50 including a hand-written gift message and postage
Launched in 2023, herblend,mbs is all about feeding the mind, body and soul They create herbal blends to suit your own needs, giving you that boost to become your best self.
herblend,mbs is 100% natural Whether you ’ re looking for a tea to help you relax after a long day or want to create your own custom blend to suit your needs, local brand herblend,mbs has it all
Check out their Etsy store to discover more: https://herblendmbs.etsy.com
1 medium white onion, chopped
1 red bell or pointed pepper, diced
1 or ½ small red chilli
1 tsp salt
Corn or vegetable oil to fry
500 g beef steak mince or minced beef, ideally 10% fat
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground allspice
1 tsp oregano or marjoram
250 ml tomato passata
2 tbsp tomato paste
100 g white rice
A can of black beans (400g, 240 g of beans)
1 spring onion, roughly cut into small rings for garnish
Warm your cockles with this wonderful chilli con carne recipe from the fabulous food blogger Dominika Kaliszewska.
Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat Add onions and fry for 2 minutes, then add the salt, garlic and chilli pepper and continue frying for the next 2 minutes Then add the chopped red pepper and continue frying until the pepper is softened, it takes another 3 minutes Remove all vegetables from the pot and set aside
Add a splash of oil again and increase the heat, then add meat Fry the meat until it becomes brown
I do it in batches as my pot with a thick bottom is not large enough and I don't want to crowd the meat; if a pot is too small, meat will release the juices and will cook instead of frying
Lower the heat to medium and return all vegetables to the pot
Add the cumin, allspice, oregano or marjoram, tomato passata and paste Stir to combine all ingredients Cover the pot with a lid and cook on low heat for at least 45 minutes Check the stew every 15 minutes stirring to prevent it from burning
In the meantime, cook the rice as per instructions and keep it warm
After 45 minutes of cooking add the black beans, stir and cook another 5 minutes
Serve the chilli with rice, a dash of sour cream and avocado, topped with the spring onion You can use your favourite toppings such as red pickled onions or tortillas
This recipe was provided by food blogger and Ealing resident Dominika Kaliszewska
Dominka's blog Polly Eats London offers up step-by-step guides on how to create an array of fabulous recipes
It has to be said that in Ealing we are spoilt for choice when it comes to Indian cuisine, which can make it difficult to stand out from the crowdand yet Laguna makes it look easy to do so, both as a restaurant and an absolutely banging catering service The latter is a market leader for Asian Weddings in London, and is an approved caterer at over 100 venues including Kew Gardens, the V&A, Kensington Palace, Cutty Sark, Mandarin Oriental, the Langham & the Four Seasons.
Laguna restaurant is located on the corner of Culmington Road and Uxbridge Road, and somehow always manages to look spacious and full at the same time It's perfect for taking big groups of friends, whether in the main restaurant or the private functions room
I’ve eaten here a number of times and have sampled most of the menu This time, our table had a selection of the most popular dishes, starting with cocktails to put us in the mood The two cocktail champions are the Masala Chai Martini and the Pahargani The Chai Martini contains Absolut Vodka, Vanilla syrup, homemade chai syrup and lemon - it’s sweet and syrupy and you can barely taste the alcohol (which is delightful and dangerous in equal measures.) The Paharganj, which contains rum, homemade chilli syrup, banana syrup, lime juice & pineapple juice, packs more of a punch but is also as deliciously sweet
For appetisers we had a variety of gorgeous mouthfuls: Murgh Tikka, Gilafi Seekh Kebab, Sikandri Paneer Shashlik and Amritsari Macchi Pakora My favourites of the appetisers has to be the Delhi Wali Alu Papri Chaat, which is potatoes and chickpeas blended with yoghurt and a tamarind dressing served with crackers and Chatpatti Chilli Gobhi - cauliflower florets cooked with a spicy Indo-Oriental tang
We then enjoyed an array of beautiful curries including Koh-E-Rogan Josh; some amazing Bhajis and a delectable Saag Paneer Laguna's Butter Chicken is the best this gori has ever tasted We finished the meal with Gulabs I then didn't eat again for three days
The Laguna experience remains exemplary to all
www lagunarestaurant com
12l cold apple cider
400g tin of pumpkin
1 can of cream soda (330g)
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
200ml of vodka
cinnamon stick for grnish
whipped cream for garnish
Having a (grown-up) Halloween Party? Here's a perfect seasonal beverage to break the spooky ice...
In a large pitcher, stir together the cider and pumpkin. Use a large whisk and stir until fully combined If you’d like it to be extra smooth, you can pour through a cheesecloth or small wire mesh strainer, but we didn’t find that necessary
Stir in the cream soda, pumpkin pie spice, and vodka
Add apple slices into pitcher and keep in fridge until ready to serve Serve cold topped with whipped cream or cool whip Enjoy!
What is BEAT?
BEAT is the Borough of Ealing Art Trail, a unique art experience that is now in its seventh year It was set up to provide local artists with an opportunity to display their work to the public There’s so much artistic talent behind doors across the borough, and BEAT provides an unrivalled opportunity for this to be seen and enjoyed
During two weekends in September, local artists exhibit their creativity from their homes, studios and public venues We talk of it being Ealing’s biggest art exhibition and certainly it has grown to an impressive size This year there will be work from over 220 local artists on show, within 72 venues across the borough – from Ealing, Acton, Hanwell, Southall, Perivale and Greenford
What are the objectives of the event?
Simply to allow artists to show their work to the public, and provide a cultural experience to everyone in the borough to see and enjoy the talent that lives within it
When does it take place?
BEAT runs across two weekends in September This year this will be the 9-10th and 16-17th Most venues are open between 11am-6pm on these days (though please check the event information for opening times for specific venues)
The wonderful thing that BEAT provides is the opportunity to experience art alongside the artist Not only can we see wonderful creative work, but we can speak to the artist about it – what inspired it, how it was made, and so much more This gives such a rich experience of art - one that can never be replicated online or in a gallery window
With such a large number of artists taking part this year, there is a rich assortment of types of art to experience – from painting and drawing to mosaics, textiles, photography, sculpture, ceramics and more Don’t miss the opportunity to see such a range of work and experience how artistic intent and passion can be expressed in such different ways
How do we find out where each of the exhibitions takes place?
We produce a BEAT brochure that lists all the artists taking part, all the venues where you can find these artists, and includes maps of these venues Everything you need to plan and navigate your own trail experience! You’ll find these brochures arriving through letterboxes across the borough, plus in shops, cafes, libraries and other public places in our high streets
In addition, we will have a BEAT app (www beatapp co) where you can find all this information and navigate your trail from your mobile
The Young Ealing Foundation Awards celebrate and recognises young people and the providers who help them across Ealing Young Ealing Foundation’s Entrepreneur Award was won by Chanelle McPherson-Bradshaw for her work with the Salvation Army Baby Bank. We spoke to her about this prestigious accolade
I joined the Salvation Army to work on the Baby Bank project in Ealing in 2021 I was welcomed into the Baby Bank Coordinator role with open arms during the heat of the pandemic where we were still operating safely to reach those families in desperate need Coming out of that it was time to restructure and we looked forward to opening face-to-face with families A year later I was in the position where I had to the opportunity to step up and manage the Baby Bank stopping it from closure and I jumped at the chance I feel that this project is such a huge part of our community on both ends of the spectrum, it gives people who are in need the opportunity for help as well as allowing others who want to donate or shift good quality items the place to do that, while also reducing waste
I am now working as the Ealing Salvation Army Community Centre Manager continuing the work with the Baby Bank as well as looking to the future of it becoming a family hub community Centre and what that might look like in our local area
I won the Young Ealing Foundation Entrepreneur of the Year award based on my work in the Baby Bank with the following being highlighted: “The panel felt that Chanelle was an absolute inspiration and highlighted the use of entrepreneurial spirit to make a positive impact on the local community They felt that Chanelle's dedication and commitment to helping others at such a young age is awe-inspiring”
It was such an honour to be recognised for something like this and I couldn’t be more grateful to my team who have supported me through many challenges every step of the way on this journey and continue to help the Baby Bank grow I wish for a future where services like this aren’t needed, however until then we are happy to fill this gap in our community
Ealing Salvation Army is a Family Hub where The Baby Bank, Little Lounge Toddler Group as well as our ties to other local organisations all come together to provide families with a space to find support The Baby Bank was set up in 2019 to support local families who are struggling with the financial responsibilities of providing for their children, whether it be due to having no recourse to public funds, asylum seeker status or even low income issues with the rising costs of essentials
By accepting a range of donations from the community of their good quality second-hand baby clothes and equipment we can give these families a helping hand We are partnered with our local foodbank which along with our own fundraising keeps stocked up on formula milk and other toiletry essentials like nappies etc which all can come at a hefty price when included in your weekly shop
In 2022 we did our first Baby Bank trip with several families to a soft play area which was to focus on getting highly isolated families out and engaging with their children as well as each other This was a huge success and the feedback from the families was great, we were able to give them the opportunity to do something with their children that they wouldn’t have been able to afford This is all with thanks to the amazing community who donate, fundraise, or even just share their knowledge of the Baby Bank as well as the dedication of our brilliant volunteers!
We don’t know exactly how many people The Salvation Army helps as our officers respond to need in the communities our churches are based in every day The Salvation Army supports families, including with items for babies, in various ways across the UK Baby banks are just one way of helping
At Ealing Baby Bank, we have held approximately 450 appointments with families since January This has been a mix of returning clients and new with an average of 8-10 new families being referred weekly This does not include the connections with local health visitors who collect items on behalf of families a few times a week
There are two main ways that people can help support Ealing baby bank; donating or volunteering Donations of baby toiletries, clothes, and equipment (excluding toys, electrical items, car seats and mattresses) for children aged 0 – 4 years are very welcome
Donations can be dropped off on a Tuesday from 9am – 4pm at the baby bank, which is located at 8 Leeland Rd, Ealing, W13 9HH Anybody who would be interested in volunteering at the baby bank or toddler group is also encouraged to get in touch by contacting 020 8840 0348 or emailing ealing@salvationarmy.org.uk
