FabMagUK Issue 01 by fabmaguk

Fabmag issue 01 / september 2020

Forty & beyond

Style heroes

A look at all the fab wardrobes that have been inspiring us this spring

fab at

Interview with Rachel Peru on loving life at 5o

A L LOW YO U R S E L F TO D I S C OV E R THE BEAUTIFYING PROPERTIES O F C R Y S TA L S W I T H O U R C O N S C I O U S LY C U R A T E D

Letter from

C O L L E C T I O N O F TA L I S M A N S

the editor

WELCOME TO YOUR MINDFUL BEAUTY RITUAL TA L I S M A L O N D O N . C O M

Zee, editor and founder of Forty and Beyond

ello and welcome to the First Edition of what I hope will be a long and successful venture for Forty & Beyond. I’ve wanted to start my own online space for some time. I cut my writing teeth on a blog called ‘I’m not old I’m retro’ and for a lifestyle magazine called ‘BOUNCE’ but I wanted to create something for women my own age who are embracing the ageing process with as much gusto as I am. I wanted this magazine to be about you and full of skin care, beauty and fashion items along with

guest contributors and interviews with interesting and inspiring women that will make for interesting and uplifting reading. So thank you for subscribing and joining me in the highs and lows and of course funny journey into 40 and beyond.

Zee x Editor september 2020 / issue 01

Contents 6

contributors

Meet some of the special ladies who have helped us bring the magazing to life!

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Skincare Taking care of your skin and talking skincare after 40

Fashion feature

Interview with...

A starry delight with the wonderful Mary Benson London

Rachel Peru, about enjoying life after 50

Cover Image:Laura adams www.lauraadamsphotography.co.uk 4

14 18 Husbandless wife Katy Thomas, on grief and losing her Husband Dom to cancer

22 fab mags favs

A shout out to some of our favourite Women on Social Media

10 fortyandbeyondmagazine.com

24 Smear fear

share some of the hilarious stories We sent in to us, which will make you laugh and take the fear out of the smear!

Home style

Lisa Snare shares her kitchen and bedroom renovaion and the inspiration behind them

Menopause & skin

Get in touch

We talk about what happens to our skin during and after the menopause, and what you can do to help!

How to contact us!

26 Lockdown fitness We speak to Vicci Rowlands who shares her top tips for home workouts

30 40â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion

Editor Zee talks about her passion for 40â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion and lockdown comfort

32 Beauty

Non surgical facelifts from our resident beauty therapist, Sarah StLedger september 2020 / issue 01

FabMag fortyandbeyondmaguk uk

Contributors Laura Madden Mum of two Laura has 25 years in the beauty industry and is currently in residence at the Suffolk Spa ‘Retreat East’.Laura’s will be giving us skin care advice for skin over 40 and the best treatments available and things you can use at home.

Sarah St Ledger Mum and mum to be Sarah owns the Beautanical garden in the picturesque Lavenham Suffolk. Sarah is a skin therapist and a semi permanent makeup artist. Sarah will be telling us about her work with Cancer patients and answering any of your questions in editions to come.

Lisa Marie When she’s not off running a marathon or cycling for charity Lisa can be found in the Suffolk countryside. Lisa has recently reignited her passion for home interior design with a home renovation project. With her eye for detail and knack of finding a bargain this makes her a perfect addition to the FABMAG team.

the faces behind the words.... Fabmag would like to give a huge shoutout to all of our lovely contributors who have sent over their words for our debut issue!

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Our team w

EDITOR Zena Battersby

Vicci Rowland’s is a mum and personal trainer. Vicci will be giving us easy to follow health and fitness advice and you can email your fitness questions to her at the FABMAGUK hub.

Designer Alix Pamela Shaw Contributors Laura Madden Sarah St Ledger

Zena Battersby – That’s me! Each month I will be giving you my Fashion finds, my trend predictions and my Style Heroes from the world of social media. I’ve worked in the Beauty industry and the Fashion Retail Industry as a Personal Shopper, A Stylist and Retail Manager. So I’ll be using my experience to offer you style advice and predictions of trends and how to wear them. But mostly I want you all to be celebrated and for this to be a space that welcomes everyone.

Katy Thomas One minute a mother of two and wife of one, the next a widow and partner in crime to two adult daughters who are fantastically making their own way in the world. Still trying to parent a badly behaved 11 year old cocker spaniel.... works in progress. I’m a green fingered, book lover with a very unhealthy internet shopping habit. Totally blessed in the family and friends department. 6

@gmail.com

Lisa Marie Vicci Rowland Zena Battersby Katy Thomas

Fabmag UK is a registered trademark and an online magazine publication. Reproduction in whole or in any part is strictly forbidden without written permission from the Editor, Zena Battersby. The views expressed in the magazine are not neccessarily those of the editor. All images used are copyright to the photographers, who have been credited throughout the magazine.

september 2020 / issue 01

let’s face it By: laura madden

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Photo:burst.shopify.com/NicoleDeKhors

ou’re 40. You’re fabulous! It’s time to face facts. Once we hit our 40’s your skincare routine needs a bit of an overhaul. If you’re anything like me the thought of spending your evenings applying this cream, that cream, another serum or magic potion can leave you aging even quicker, but using the right products at the right time is quick and simple. Mornings: Should be, cleanse, an anti-oxidant and an SPF. In the evenings: This is your treatment time! As your skin is repairing during the twilight hours, You Cleanse, Add a treatment and then corrective products. That’s it. (If you are using a facial device to promote collagen production such NEWA use this on clean skin after you cleanse.) Once a week you can choose when you can incorporate an exfoliator and mask. These are my essential picks to begin your anti aging journey • SPF • Anti-oxidant • Retinol From the age of 25 our skin ageing begins and by the time we reach our 40s our hyaluronic acid,

“What we do to our skin at home will make the most improvement.” collagen and elastin depletes. Using a broad spectrum SPF is an essential daily must have in your routine to prevent premature aging. One of my favourite SPF is the Colourescience and Sunforgetable total protection. Known as the hardest working

skincare ingredients and often referred to as the fountain of youth, anti oxidants. These will protect skin from free radicals; a molecule in the environment that damages the skin and further weakens your collagen and elastin. Anti oxidants will also brighten,

calm and smooth fine lines. I recommend the skinceuticals ce ferulic. Lastly retinol. A fabulous clinically proven anti aging product. This is the perfect time to start your retinol journey, with the lockdown measures easing we are spending a little more time outside

and whilst using retinol must have no sun exposure, so take care. Retinol is vitamin A and should be recommended by a skincare specialist. It’s used as a night time product over a 4 week period. Week 1: Use once a week Week 2: use twice a week Week 3 three times a week and on the 4th week four times. Ensure you leave a few days between applications. Your skin is adjusting to the retinol so you may experience a sting or tingle. This is want we want to feel so don’t be afraid of it. We are deeply exfoliating from the inside out. If you do choose to use a retinol you

must use an SPF and avoid sun exposure and heat treatments. What we do to our skin at home will make the most improvement. If you need some extra skincare support peels and micro needling are both amazing in clinic procedures. Happy overhaul! w september 2020 / issue 01

It’s written in the stars… By: Zee Battersby

TYLE; a distinctive appearance, typically determined by the principles according to which something is designed. What is your style? Do you follow trends and fashionable ideas posted on social media? Are you part of a subculture and you’re a purist to that style? Or, are you like me you have your own unique style? You take inspiration from everywhere? That’s what I like to do. Sometimes It works and sometimes is doesn’t. But that’s the fun of dressing up. These days I’m a little heavier than Id like to be. I’m a 14/16 with boobs! I really enjoy getting dressed up and my husband will tell you if we have an event or a party to go to I’ll already have my outfit hung up a week before. He laughs that it’s the only time I’m actually organised!! I started F.A.B.MAG because I felt there were broad sections of us not represented in the media. So we are here to show you alternative styles. They may not be for

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“are you like me you have your own unique style? You take inspiration from everywhere?”

everyone but we do like to think we give a broad and exciting take on fashion for those Forty and beyond. We may even give you the confidence to push out of your comfort zone and try something different? During this time of being at home and not being able to shop, a lot of us have thought about were our clothes come from I know I have. I’ve thought about the cost of fast fashion and how we can support small businesses. It’s a conversation I’ve had a lot of my instagram. Is sustainable fashion affordable? Can we make it the norm? I’m proud to say there are a lot of things in my wardrobe over 10 years old (the rest is a size 10 and in the loft!) I can re work something and I’m in the process of adding things to my denim jacket just to make it a bit different. (Stay tuned for that calamity!) So here’s the thing, I have become a little obsessed with Mary Benson London. After finding her on my instagram I fell in love. Her dresses are flamboyant, celestial

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“After finding her on my instagram I fell in love. Her dresses are flamboyant, celestial and beautiful” and beautiful. Her home cushions are worthy of frames and I love her velvet moon bags! She uses dead stock fabrics and in limited runs, therefore minimises waste. They really are beautiful. Amongst her fans are Noel Fielding and Ferne Cotton. She’s also a member of the online collective @grlpwrgang on 4 Instagram. Look them up september 2020 / issue 01

on Instagram. So when you’re thinking about sustainable fashion don’t write it off. There has been a new wave of designers like Mary who are making sustainable chic and attainable. Because quiet often the price tag on sustainable is way out of reach. I think every wardrobe and home needs a sprinkle of Mary Magic. w

Editors

3 w

Picks 1 w

1.Moon & star cushions, £35 2. Star Shoes, commissioned upwards of £60

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2 w

3.pale pink cushion, £45.00

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fab ulo us

Laura adams www.lauraadamsphotography.co.uk

By: Rachel Peru

omorrow, I turn the page on the last decade and during this Lockdown I’ve had lots of time to reflect on my forties. Where to start! On my 40th birthday I found myself in the middle of getting divorced after being in the same relationship since I was sixteen, with three young children and no real career to speak of. I’m not going to lie, there were some really low moments to be found at the bottom of a wine bottle but something inside me knew this was the time to change my life and discover who I was. That cliched term “life begins at 40” had never felt more real and I know from speaking to other

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women that they also felt a real sense of freedom once turning 40. I had been working as a nursery assistant for a few years and decided to take it more seriously, finally attending university which had always niggled me that I hadn’t gone when I was younger. I gained a 2.1 in Education Studies aged 42. I was all set to take this career seriously and was happy in my job when my eldest daughter became ill and home schooling meant I had to stop working. This was a real blow to my newfound confidence but I’m a great believer in things working out for a reason and I can’t imagine I would have even considered modelling if I hadn’t left.

In 2010 my best friend volunteered us both to take part in a local McMillan’s charity fashion show and although I was so nervous about it, I loved it and it really took me out of my comfort zone. For me personally that is where I know I have grown the most, putting myself into uncomfortable situations that often scare me. Since turning 40 I have completed two sky dives for charity but I am still scared of heights; volunteered in orphanages in Uganda and India; cycled from London to Brighton and the 127miles Leeds to Liverpool canal in a weekend (I’ve not been on a bike since)! All these new challenges have created a memory 4 august 2020 / issue 01

bank of my own courage and always help me when I’m having a wobble about anything. I’ve modelled in the fashion show for ten years now and my own body confidence has grown immeasurably. Little did I know that it would become a career that I’m so passionate about. At 46, after some encouragement, I applied to some modelling 16

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agencies, in my mind I thought if I got some local work it would be a bit of fun so imagine how surprised I was when a London agency took me on straight away. I’m not your typical model, I have grey hair and curves which are classed as plus size in the industry (UK 14-16). In my first year I found myself on a plane heading to the Bahamas

Photo by Evin Ng from Pexels

Photo by kelly samuel from Pexels Rachel cycled from London to Brighton in a weekend

to shoot a swimwear campaign with Ashley Graham and singer Lizzo. My husband had to practically push me on the plane as my anxiety and imposter syndrome was sky high, but that job changed me forever. I remember standing on the beach after hair and make-up had worked their magic, wearing a beautiful swimsuit and thinking wow I’m 47 and look what I’m doing. That shoot sparked my passion for being able to represent women over 40 in lingerie and swimwear campaigns because we are practically invisible. It’s frustrating to see that the media and advertising haven’t caught up with the real shift in attitudes of women over 40. Our generation have a different attitude to life than our parents and changing careers and the ability to reinvent ourselves is much more accessible. Modelling lingerie and swimwear is now my favourite type of work and I have gained new respect and acceptance of my body which has been liberating. I wasted so many years worrying about what I looked like and not liking my body that it stopped me from really enjoying life fully. Perhaps if we start to see more older women represented in campaigns, women over 40 will stop having to compare their bodies to those in their twenties which is unrelatable and yet another reminder of the aging process. I think we are starting to see this happen, but we still have a long way to go. I started my own podcast in

Rachel is passionate about representing women over 40 in lingerie and swimwear campaigns

2018 called ‘Out of the Bubble’ where I interview women who share their stories of reinvention, rekindling their love for past hobbies, trying new sports, overcoming hurdles in life and finding new purpose and passion in life and I am constantly inspired by their stories. It’s often at a time when children are fleeing the nest; the family dynamics start to change, and women gain breathing space to really think about what they really enjoy doing in life and

“Little did I know that it would become a career that I’m so passionate about” dare to dream again. I’ve always had dreams at the back of mind but in my twenties and thirties I

lacked the confidence and selfbelief to even try to pursue them. I’ve found my forties a time when I stopped worrying as much about what others thought, or if I failed at things because I knew that it didn’t really matter. I’m looking forward to turning 50 tomorrow and can’t wait to see what the next chapter brings. I have a long list of things I still want to achieve and really do feel like the best of me is still to come. Watch this space! w september 2020 / issue 01

H The

om.... On 22nd May 2017 my husband and best friend died two years and five months after being diagnosed with incurable, stage 4 oesophageal cancer. His death left me and our two gorgeous girls heartbroken. Life is complicated and sad and beautiful and fun and then complicated and sad again....all in the same day.

Photo by:burst.shopify.com/soulseeker

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usbandless Wife By: katy thomas

Why now? I’m not really sure why now, other than I spent many sleepless nights after Dom died searching the internet for answers, advice, others experiences to help me make sense of what was happening in my life. This blog is based on my experience of illness, death and grief; hopefully what I share can be of use to someone out there. Here is some of what I learned

in those early days after Dom died; - Being with someone when they take their last breath is an honour. Doms death at home (where he wanted to be, just the four of us) was peaceful, calm and beautiful. Not the terrifying, distressing, frightening experience I had feared for as long as I can remember.  -You find out how many people love you. Friends are worth their weight in gold. Those that drink wine and cry with you late into the night (my friend and neighbour in this instance). Those who offer practical help, those who invite you for dinner or a dog walk, those who aren’t afraid to ask you how you are. Those who scoop you up in the supermarket when you lose your shit and just can’t keep it together (true story) Every friend wants to help in their own way, let them. The same goes for family; I’m not sure how we would

Dom living like his life depends on it. This photo was taken 18 months after his diagnosis

have coped without the relentless support of my family. I appreciate that some people don’t have that support, I am grateful every day. -Young people are way more resilient than we give them credit for. Our daughters miss their Dad every second of every day but they have never used his death as a reason to quit, in fact quite the opposite, they are two of the most driven, determind, kind, strong, capable. Incredible young women I know. These two are my heroes and their Dad could not have been prouder. They amaze me every day.

“Life is complicated and sad and beautiful and fun and then complicated and sad again....all in the same day” -Planning a funeral is like planning a wedding in a few weeks and can cost as much. Luckily for me I had my sister and brother

who were there every step of the way with us. In my case, Dom’s funeral was way bigger than our wedding (which was a small, intimate affair) It turned out to be a big party to celebrate his life, he would have loved it. Funeral directors want your day to be perfect and are happy to meet with you as often as you need. They think of all the little things much like wedding planners. I woke up in the night one time having a huge panic that I had none of Doms hair and I turned up to see him the day before his funeral with 4 a pair of kitchen scissors and a september 2020 / issue 01

life before cancer

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“Becoming a widow is something that no one plans for and something I had never really thought about until that day” strange and at times unreasonable behaviours in some people. This is hard to deal with when you are trying to manage your own grief and your tolerance levels are at an all time low. There will be relationships that change and some

think I got off on the wrong foot by drinking too many esspresso martinis at his wake (or after party as we now affectionately refer to it) I’ve kind of bluffed my way through ever since. There is no right or wrong, no such thing as too sad or not sad enough, you feel the way that you feel. However bad things are, remember that you will laugh and smile and have good times again. Some days are easier than others, there is no rhyme or reason. -The care and support offered by the Hospice is immeasurable. Our hospice nurse became like a member of our family for a time. I returned to the hospice for counselling a year after Dom died which was a huge help to me. The

same goes for the incredible nurses and oncologist that supported Dom through every stage of his treatment. I am forever grateful to our NHS and the heroes that work in it. -There is so much paperwork. (Get lots of copies of the death certificate, you will need them.) -The sadness and grief stays (unfortunately it doesn’t lessen) but I have learned to live a good life with it. It has become a part of who I am. -You develop a very dark sense of humour, sometimes others dont get it. -If your partner didnt have life insurance, financially it takes a while to adjust...two and a half years later and I’m still winging

Photo by:burst.shopify.com/@shopifypartners

sandwich bag. Our funeral director (a real life angel) took locks of Doms hair for the girls and I and tied them in a ribbon and put them in a little organza pouch. Kitchen scissors and sandwich bags were not needed. -You need lots of vases, my house was like a florist. I had beautiful bouquets arranged in measuring jugs and milk bottles. All the flowers then die at the same time so it’s like a second wave of grief after the funeral. -Life really does go on for everyone else and it makes you want to scream. I lost count of the strangers I told that my husband had just died....I still do it now sometimes. -Death and grief can bring out

that don’t survive. -Online shopping late at night does not fill the void. Okay, it feels good momentarily but it leaves you skint! -You quickly realise how capable you are. I have taken apart my dishwasher and reconnected the wiring, fixed my tumble dryer and fitted a new door seal on my washing machine. Youtube has saved me on many occassions, there is a tutorial for everything. It turns out I’m also quite good at driving and don’t mind driving on the motorway at night like I thought I did. Dom was a terrible passenger and so did all the driving. I can also deal with spiders. -Becoming a widow is something that no one plans for and something I had never really thought about until that day in the consultant’s room the week before Christmas 2014 when Dom was told he had incurable stage 4 cancer. As I write this I still find it hard to believe it happened. “In sickness and in health, til death do us part” I remember saying those vows when we got married and imagining that this would be relevant when we were old and grey (him, not me, I will always be blonde) not at 43 years old with both our daughters still at school and our whole lives ahead of us. I still can’t make any sense of it and find it impossible to imagine my future without him. I didn’t really know how to deal with widowhood, I still don’t. I

“Every friend wants to help in their own way, let them.“

it. On the flip side of that, losing someone you love makes you less worried about material things. What’s the worse that can happen? The worse thing did happen and we are surving, remembering this helps when navigating finacial instability. -Keeping busy and learning new things really helps. I did a silver making course with a friend. I made jewellery with some of Doms ashes with the most interesting silversmith. I did a spray tanning course as a way to earn some extra money and I started volunteering at my local theatre I love it, I get to see things I would’t otherwise get to see. Panto most definitely helped me through last years festive season. Its hard not to smile when everyone around you is having a great time. -People will ask from really early on if you have met someone else, paricularly when you are a “young” widow. I think most people have your best interests at heart and want you to be happy. I have many things in my life that make me happy including my family, my friends and my job. I am not single by choice, my husband died, therefore for me, finding love again is about as far down on my list of of priorities as it can be. Dom was my person and I was lucky to have spent 25 years with him. I think you probably only find that once in your lifetime.w read more at: husbandlesswife.com september 2020 / issue 01

FABMAGS

faves this

month w

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Each month here at F.A.B Mag UK we love to uplift other women. Each Issue we will be giving a shout out to some of our favourite Women on Social Media. All these women are vibrant, Sassy, Inspirational, intelligent, and most of all SUPPORTIVE of other women. If you are on Instagram, look them up hey really make it a nice place to be.

CURVY CAMPELL Olivia Campell is a London based Model and content creator on Instagram. Her feed is FULL of body positive images, inspiring pictures and Fun content. I love her and her sassy attitude.

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Curvy Campell

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CHIC OVER 50.. Ok, this woman looks incredible. I love her style her hair and all her posts are fun. She reminds me so much of a lady I worked with recently. Just showing everyone that age doesn’t matter. I love her.

Chic over 50

CLOOTYDUMPLING Elyza has style, the kind that’s effortless. Pictured here with her pooch Hector, Elyza and her partner John are two of the coolest cats in Liverpool. I have daily shoe and handbag envy not to mention her specs. If I get myself in gear I will get up to Liverpool and have a good rifle though her wardrobe!!

MILK AND HONEY FOREVER Susan is from Germany and my favourite posts of hers are the ones of her jumping in the air. Her feed is fun, bright and positive. I love her fashion styling and her happy vibe.

Milk and Honey forever

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MRS JENKS MOD FOR LIFE Sheila is a true modette and got tired of not being able to find clothes to her taste. So like most resourceful women Sheila started making her own. I have complete wardrobe envy!

Mrs Jenks Mod for life 22

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My brother Sarah

Clootydumpling

MY BROTHER SARAH Finally Sarah. Sarah and I share the very same sense of style. It’s just a shame I wouldn’t ever fit in her clothes! So I live a little bit of my stylish life through her instagram squares. She has a Sofa talk series on her instagram where informal conversations take place about lots of issues affecting women with inspirational woman she’s met locally. Sarah is very honest and I love her feed.

september 2020 / issue 01

Photo:burst.shopify.com/matthewhenry

ere a FAB MAG UK we love to look on the lighter side of life. So when we asked our instagram followers if they’d had any funny Doctor, Hospital Stories. Gynaecology related ones seemed to be the theme of the day .We couldn’t believe the stories we were sent.. Here are some of our favourites that really made us laugh. MRS C From Wolverhamption I went in for C-section and I hadn’t been able to see my self ‘down there’ for quiet some time. My husband was too scared to help me whilst heavily pregnant. So once we got into the pre op area the surgeon set about shaving me. I may have underestimated the wildness of the bush. The surgeon giggled, then the nurse giggled, then my husband (whos bald) giggled and asked for a short back and sides. There was uproar the whole theatre where giggling and laughing. Five years on and I’m still sniggering about it. Mrs G from Carlise Cumbria During one of my smear tests the

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“I’m hot and my boobs look like pitta breads!” electricity went off!! The nurse proceeded to rummage around (under the bed I must add) and then plonked a huge builder torch between my legs!! Honestly she couldn’t have found a bigger torch if she tried it was like she was going mining!! Lindsey from Warrington Cheshire The last time I was having a smear I was dying for a wee in the waiting room. I legged it to the toilet and halfway through realised to my HORROR there

Photo:burst.shopify.com/farah

It could only happen to ….US!!

tissue I used when I got caught short. I often wonder if she tells people this story too!

was no toilet paper!! I rummaged around in my bag and found an old tissue, better than nothing I thought. Got into the nurse’s room, assumed position, legs akimbo. She then peered up from my nether’s and frowned. I asked what was wrong. She then brandished what appeared to be salad tongs and pulled something terrifying looking out of my ‘a hem ‘area’!! What’s the Jesus is that!?? I screamed and as she bought it up closer to me I realised it was a half sucked Werthers original (other sweets are available) that was stuck to the

Kirsty from Sheffield I had to apologise to my midwife half way through labour. I declared ‘I need to take my top off, I’m hot and my boobs look like pitta breads!!!!’ Caron from Suffolk Wed been out to an amusement park for the best part of the day and I had a smear test booked at 5.30. So once back at my sisters I had went to freshen up in the bathroom and used some pink talcum powder. (It belonged to one of my nieces) When I got to the surgery my GP was carrying out the smear test. Once finished he said ‘right there we go, you needn’t have gone to so much trouble!’ Perplexed and thinking I’d miss heard him, the nurse and I looked at each-other and I left. I got home and had a wee and as I pulled my pants down a small cloud of glitter emerged. The talc Id used was a kids glitter talc. I was Mortified!! Mrs Ned from Warrington Awkward silences are never a good thing. So whilst having my smear test a very strait faced nurse asked me to drop my knees much wider as she needed to look in! As an ardent fan of The Office US I immediately answered without thinking “That’s what she said” giggling

like a moron. I was met with a cold stare between my legs and 2 minutes of total silence!

“as I pulled my pants down a small cloud of glitter emerged” Julia from Cambridge I was running late for my smear test appointment. I arrived and quickly checked in and sped off to the loo. Mid way through I realised they were out of loo roll.. Mortified I found a tissue in my workbag and as far as I was concerned the day had been saved. It was until half way through my smear test the nurse reached up holding out a crumpled first class stamp and said ‘this must be yours” !? Luckily we both really laughed.. From that day I have wipes in my bag no matter what!!

Miss G from Suffolk Years ago I’d been bought for Christmas, a really ornate silver ring. I arrived for my smear test with the usual nerves. As I lay there staring at the ceiling my hands were just resting on my tummy. The nurse suddenly decided small talk would break the silence. She exclaimed, “wow what an unusual ring, I’ve never seen one like that before!!” I lay there goggle eyed trying to fathom what she meant. Was it unusual? Was it deformed? What did she mean? She then said “its so pretty” I think my fight or flight kicked in and I jumped back and asked her what exactly she meant. She looked back at me stunned and said very calmly, “the ring on your finger, its unusual and very pretty” what seemed like forever passed and as the penny dropped I tried to act as though nothing had happened and just shrugged and said “oh thanks it was a Christmas present. “ She must have thought I was completely tapped. I never did have her again for my smear test!!! w september 2020 / issue 01

Lockdown By: Vicci Rowlands

ello and welcome to my little corner of the stunning new FABMAG! I’m so excited to have the opportunity to write for you each month. I hope you find this column an approachable and

Photo by burst.shopify.com/@lightleaksin/Samantha Hurley

useful take on all things health, wellbeing and fitness. Introductions first! I’m Vicci and I’ve been working as a Personal Trainer for the past three years. Having always been passionate about fitness and

“A healthy body, plus a healthy mind equals a (you guessed it) healthy, happy individual”

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exercise, I decided in my mid-30’s to just go for it and retrain. It turned out to be a good decision, I adore my job and having more life experience ‘under my belt’ helped me understand my Clients (a lot of wonderful 40- something women that much better! Alongside personal training, I also work part-time as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner, helping people manage common mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. I find the two jobs complement each other perfectly as exercise and wellbeing are intrinsically interlinked. A healthy body, plus a healthy mind equals a (you guessed it) healthy, happy individual, able to confidently enjoy living their life in their own skin. With the current lockdown situation and managing the inevitable anxieties, there could not be a more apt time to highlight the importance

Photo by:burst.shopify.com/@sarahpflugphoto

Getting fitter after

of exercise. Juggling my work and “home schooling” my two young daughters (aka desperately trying not to f@*k up their entire education) has seen me climbing the walls at times. I flit between loving the slower pace of life and the extra family time, to wondering what it might be like to run away and live in my tent for a few weeks, such is my need for a bit of “freedom”. Exercise has been my saviour during this time, I am generally living for my next endorphin hit (when it’s too early for a G&T)! Exercise endorphins are pure

“I also work part-time helping people manage common mental health problems such as anxiety and depression” magic, they act as the body’s natural pain killers and mood

elevators, which can help keep us on the positive during these times of uncertainty… Winning! For a lot of us, day-to-day life can be somewhat sedentary. Generally, we spend less time moving and more time in the car. Those of us working in office jobs are often spending a lot of time sat at a desk, which can lead to a weak posterior chain and back problems. The benefits of exercise are well documented and you will no doubt have read they can include maintaining a healthy weight and preventing health conditions or diseases such as type 2 diabetes and 4 september 2020 / issue 01

Here are two of my go-to exercises for increasing arm tone and strength: 1) Bicep Curl: If you don’t have

Photo by:burst.shopify.com/Samantha Hurley

stroke. Weight-bearing exercise can lead to improved muscular and skeletal strength, especially important for us women who are at increased risk of osteoporosis as we age. A lot of my Clients come to me wanting to make positive changes in their lives. Some may be new to exercise and others may have hit a wall in their training and be looking for new training plans or ideas. Whatever your situation, I promise there is never a bad time to start exercising. The type of exercise is completely up to you 28

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“I hear the phrase ‘sort my Bingo Wings out please!’ a LOT” and finding an activity you enjoy means that you are more likely to stick with it, reaping both the physical and mental health benefits. Seeing improvements in health and fitness, whether that’s being able to lift a heavier weight,

run a faster 5k, toning up, shifting excess weight, or nailing that difficult yoga pose, can give you a sense of achievement and be a huge confidence booster - and this is where I hope I can help you. Each month I will be sharing a couple of exercises that you can try at home. This month’s focus? Arm toning exercises! How will it help you? Sadly, I have very few Clients who tell me they love how their arms look and feel. I hear the phrase ‘sort my Bingo Wings out please!’ a LOT.

dumbbells these can be performed with tin cans, easy! Stand with your feet shoulderwidth apart. With a weight in each hand, start with your arms hanging by your side. Keep your elbows close to your torso with your palms facing forward. Slowly curl the weight up, towards your shoulders, exhaling on the way up and return to starting position. If you can, perform 3 sets of 12 repetitions with 30 seconds rest between sets. If not, do what you can and make this the aim. bicep curl

2) Triceps Dips: Grab a chair! Sit on the edge of the chair with your feet hip-distance apart. Grip the front of the chair with your hands and slide your bum off the chair with your legs extended out in front of you. Bending at the elbows, slowly lower your bum towards the floor and push back up to starting position exhaling as you move. If this move feels too difficult with your legs fully extended, bend at the knee. Again, perform 3 sets of 12 repetitions with 30 seconds rest between sets if you can. There you have it. Two simple exercises that can be done almost anywhere. No specialist equipment needed. Be warned, Tricep Dips are not known for being too easy, but they are known for being

tricep dips

highly effective, so stick with it and you’ll see the difference in just a few weeks. Aim to do these exercises three or four times a week if you can. You’ll notice a change in how strong you feel pretty quickly

and you may find you can do a few more. Good luck everyone. Enjoy, stay committed and I’ll be back next month with more top training tips for you. w V xx september 2020 / issue 01

fabric, wearing fluffy heels and beautiful feminine nightwear. Think, Lucille Ball, Rita Hayworth and Lana Turner. And of course Carmen Miranda!!

“There are plenty of EBay stores and online boutiques that deal only in genuine vintage lingerie” My favourites are the fabulous feathered robes and floor length silk nightgowns. Something that is hard to find these days. I’m also not for a minute suggesting I flounce around all day dressed in the featured items, but I would love to have the time and energy to put as much effort in as they did in the

1940’s dream wear

forties and fifties. There are plenty of EBay stores and online boutiques that deal only in genuine vintage lingerie. It really is stunning. But one thing to remember when looking is that the average waist size in genuine 1940’s clothing was an eye watering 23inches.

So here’s my, as always, colourful, take on forties loungewear and its all available online. So if the mood takes you why not dip your pretty toes into this glamorous world of loungewear…just for fun. Stay Safe Stay Fabulous Love Zee xxx w

editors pick I just love these turban headscarfs, they’re the perfect addition to your glam 40’s nightwear look! Found on ebay.

By: zee battersby

don’t know about you but this lockdown malarkey has got me in a complete fashion fuddle! One day you wake up feeling fantastic ready to get your glam on. The next you can barely

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“The next you can barely be bothered to brush your teeth!”

be bothered to brush your teeth! So just lately, I’ve been taking loungewear inspiration from years gone by. I love the era of the 1940’s when starlets would appear on screen in amazing silk flowing september 2020 / issue 01

caci solutions By: sarah st.ledger

ell I am so excited that Zena has given me this amazing opportunity to write a Beauty column in her new online magazine. Let me first tell you a little bit about me. My name is Sarah St Ledger and I’ve been a Beauty Therapist for 14 years. Throughout my career I have taken on many different roles, Therapist, Trainer and representing a Skincare Brand as an Account Manager but always stayed within the ever growing, buzzing Beauty Industry. In December 2018 I left my job to open my own Beauty Salon, The Beautanical Garden, a lodge at the bottom of my garden. It’s always been a dream of mine and with my little boy starting school the following September it would give me much more flexibility and time with my family.

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Today I wanted to introduce to you one of the treatments I offer at the salon, The CACI Synergy Non Surgical Face Lift. CACI is the number one Non Surgical Anti Ageing Facial Treatment and has been the market leader for almost 22 years. Some of its biggest fans are Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez and Laura Whitmore and let’s face it who doesn’t want to look as good as any of those beautiful ladies. The CACI Synergy Non Surgical Facelift uses Micro current to retrain the muscles in the face to stay lifted and tight, teamed with Red light therapy to help stimulate collagen synthesis in the skin and treat fine lines and wrinkles and Blue light therapy for acne, scarring and to have an anti bacterial effect on the skin. I would recommend anyone

aged 30 or above to start having CACI Facials as it’s at this age that our skin starts to loose 1% of collagen per year and everything unfortunately starts to go south. Now results can been seen after 1 treatment however a course of 10 is recommended for the best results (2 a week for 5 weeks.) I always say to my clients it’s like going to the gym, if you go once your not going to achieve your desired result. You need to keep training the muscle and reminding it that you are training it to see the best results. After a course is completed you would come every 4-6 weeks for a monthly maintenance. CACI offer many other treatments, Jowl Lift, Eye Revive and Microdermabrasion plus many more. Treatments start from £25 w Sarah

Radiant skin for your special day BOOST COLLAGEN, TIGHTEN SKIN AND REDUCE WRINKLES THE NEWA WAY

Home style By: Lisa Snare

â&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always been very

particular about how I like things to be. I love order and tidiness so when i decided to renovate my childhood home, I really didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what I was letting myself in for..... After buying an apartment in a Cambridgeshire village and renovating it to sell on I decided

Kitchen Flooring: Camaro Flooring Paint Colour: Crown Clay White Wall Light : TK Maxx Kitchen: Stor Kitchens (Wakefield) Kitchen Tap: Tap Warehouse Ceiling Lights: John Lewis Kettle & Toaster: Delonghi

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board Inspiration

to move back to the family home. My plan is to build onto the side of the house, however it soon became apparent that the whole house needed updating. Once id made my mind up there was no stopping me. I decided that the first part of the house that needed renovating was the dining room & kitchen, my thoughts on the design was to knock the rooms into one to create an open plan kitchen space. Upon deciding this was how I wanted the layout I consulted lots of different companies to see which would

be the best fit for what I wanted. The local company Newrooms of Methwold Norfolk, were the perfect fit as they offered the whole

september 2020 / issue 01

package from design, building, electrics, plumbing & supplying and fitting the new kitchen. I opted for a Stor Shaker style kitchen in a porcelain with brushed steel cup & knob handles, wanted a kitchen that was a classic design. The work tops are grey quartz, this was a must in the design consultation as I had seen the quartz top in a home magazine and just fell in love with it. I sourced the three ceiling lights from John Lewis, creating a feature of the main kitchen lights by running three down the main ceiling area. The work started in October and finished in February, looking back at the project I would say this was the toughest part of the house to renovate as I love to eat home cooked meals. I love the finished result, just waiting for the delivery of the new dining table and chair for the perfect finish.

bedroom Bedroom Furniture: eBay Bed: Carpet Right Wallpaper: Tessella Farrow & Ball Paint Colour: Brilliant White Ceiling Light: Bunnings (no longer available)

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5 “I think they are the most perfect combination & remind me of my wonderful trips to Greece especially the gorgeous streets of Mykonos” The next on my list was the master bedroom, with my favourite colour being blue and especially love navy and white together I think they are the most perfect

combination and remind me of my wonderful trips to Greece especially the gorgeous streets of Mykonos. When collecting ideas for my

Buys BLUE

1. Blue glass bowl.- TK MAXX £9.99 2. Set of 4 vintage style tiles - bowlerandjackson.co.uk £11.99 3. Blue and white woven rug - Bohosouk.co.uk £129.00 4. Pompom Basket- Bohosouk.co.uk £59.00 5.Navy blue drawer knob - watermelon.co.uk £3.29 each. 6.Crosley turntable fashiondetictive.co.uk £79.99

mood board for the room I stumbled across the most beautiful hand printed textured wallpaper from Farrow & Ball called Tessella. I made this my focal point for the room designed everything around the feature wall. Deciding that I wanted to incorporate grey into the colour pallet for the room, the bedroom furniture was sprayed by the local company The Kitchen Sprayer

located in Mildenhall, in ammonite grey of Farrow & Ball. Very pleased with this room and love chilling out in here with a book and my coffee. I have lots of plans for the house, presently working on the garden which I will share with you all at a later date, looking forward to sharing new trends and finds from local businesses in future editions. w september 2020 / issue 01

Photo:burst.shopify.com/farah

LOOK GOOD, FEEL GREAT &

Embrace Menopause Target accelerated collagen loss and skin ageing caused by menopause.

Your skin and Menopause.

e all know that our skin changes before during and after menopause. Menopause, which officially begins one year after your last period, can bring with it some noticeable changes to your skin and hair. As hormone levels plummet, your skin can become dry, slack, and thin. You may notice more hair on your face and less on your scalp. Age spots and other signs of sundamaged skin If you’ve spent ample time in the sun without sun protection, you’ll likely see the effects now. Age spots

and larger areas of darker skin can appear on your face, hands, neck, arms, or chest. Skin cancer and pre-cancerous skin growths also become more common. You can do something about the changes to your skin occur in menopause. Here are the golden rules • Apply sunscreen every day before going outdoors. To give your skin the protection it needs, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply it to all

skin that clothing won’t cover.   This can help fade age spots, prevent new spots from forming, and reduce your risk of getting skin cancer. • Make an appointment to see a dermatologist for a skin cancer screening. Your risk of getting skin cancer increases with age. As your risk rises, skin cancer screenings become so important. The earlier you find skin cancer and pre-cancerous growths, the more treatable they are. • Start skin self-exams. During your dermatology appointment, ask your 4 dermatologist how often september 2020 / issue 01

photo: Retha Ferguson/pexels

you should examine your own skin. You’ll find everything you need to know to examine your skin at, www. macmillan.org.uk • Ask your dermatologist to recommend treatment for age spots. Before you buy any treatment for age spots, see your dermatologist for a skin exam. Skin cancer sometimes looks like an age spot or other dark spot on your skin. If you use your age-spot treatment on a skin cancer, you may fade the spot and delay treatment. Delaying treatment for skin cancer gives the cancer time to possibly grow and spread. This can make the cancer more difficult to treat. After examining your skin, your dermatologist can recommend an age-spot treatment that’s suitable for your skin. In terms of skin elasticity you will notice quite a change. In menopause, skin quickly loses collagen. Studies show that women’s skin loses about 30% of its collagen during the first five years of 40

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“women’s skin loses about 30% of its collagen during the first five years of menopause” menopause. After that, the decline is more gradual. Women lose about 2% of their collagen ever year for the next 20 years. As collagen diminishes, our skin loses it firmness and begins to sag. Jowls appear. Permanent lines run from the tip of the nose to the corners of the mouth. Wrinkles that used to appear only with a smile or frown become visible all the time. Later, the tip of the nose dips. You may see pouches under your eyes. Large pores also are due to lack of skin firmness. What you can do If sagging skin or wrinkles

bother you: • Protect your skin from the sun. This can reduce visible wrinkles and prevent new wrinkles. You’ll find other ways to treat wrinkles at, Wrinkle remedies. • Consider using a skin care product that contains retinol or peptides. These ingredients can increase collagen in your skin. • Invest in a skin device to regain elasticity and tone and boost collagen production. Here are some of the latest and FDA approved skin treatments for women and the menopause. NEWA- The latest skin device on the market from NEWA is beyond anything developed before. This tool has become the most popular device during Lockdown. Women who regularly attend salons and spas for CACI treatments have purchased this to use at home to maintain their skin tone. “The technology behind NEWA is second to none. It’s the very same technology behind the ENDYMED professional device based on 3DEEP Skin Science. I’m confident that you won’t get a more effective skin tightening treatment outside of an aesthetic clinic – and that’s something truly exciting.” - Dr. Christopher Inglefield, BSc, MBBS, FRCS (Plast), Cosmetic & Plastic Surgeon We will be reviewing the NEWA in F AB MAGs next edition. Along with some money off discount codes EXCLUSIVELY for FAB MAG readers only! EMEPELLE

Breakthrough skincare innovation to help restore the natural radiance Estrogen Deficient Skin loses during Peri-menopause and menopause. Did you know? Low estrogen accelerates skin aging during Perimenopause and menopause As women age, estrogen levels throughout the body naturally decline. This decrease in estrogen leads to Estrogen Deficient Skin, which accelerates collagen loss and visible signs of skin aging.1 A clinically proven restorative breakthrough for mature skin Exclusive MEP Technology is proven to help restore the natural function of Estrogen Deficient Skin by addressing a root cause of accelerated skin aging.3 Emepelle featuring MEP Technology ® Experience the first and only skincare solution that helps improve Estrogen Deficient Skin by harnessing revolutionary MEP Technology. For women concerned about the significant effect that Estrogen Deficiency has on accelerated collagen loss and skin aging, Emepelle is the only skincare line with MEP Technology® to safely and effectively help replenish the health and vitality of Estrogen Deficient Skin (EDS). Emepelle addresses the underlying cause of Estrogen Deficient Skin with exclusive MEP Technology® resulting in healthier, more luminous, youthfullooking skin. Emepelle is a Biopelle® brand, a leader in advanced skincare

solutions committed to delivering the most innovative, effective products through licensed health and skincare providers. Biopelle is trusted and recognized for cuttingedge technologies and science-based formulations. Distributed in over 1,500 physician offices and medspas throughout North America and Australia, Biopelle continues to advance as a global leader in the aesthetic community. Go online and take the test for yourself and fin d out if you would benefit from Emepele w

Before: Female. Age 60 baseline Dryness, dullness, sagging skin, fine lines & wrinkling AFTER Female. Age 60 week 8 Hydration, luminosity, firmness, smoother, more youthful-looking skin

september 2020 / issue 01

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A L LOW YO U R S E L F TO D I S C OV E R THE BEAUTIFYING PROPERTIES O F C R Y S TA L S W I T H O U R C O N S C I O U S LY C U R A T E D C O L L E C T I O N O F TA L I S M A N S

WELCOME TO YOUR MINDFUL BEAUTY RITUAL TA L I S M A L O N D O N . C O M