Life Magazines (London editions) January 2022 by Fish Media Group Ltd

LIVE IN CONCERT HOSTED BY STEVE BACKSHALL UK PREMIERE PERFORMANCE, MARCH 31ST 2022, LONDON O2 ARENA.

Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Professional | Approachable | Bespoke

Inspiring Change Chris Abela is an experienced reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon. He has seen a large increase in people actively exploring surgical and non surgical options to address areas of new concern or which have impacted on their self esteem.

Common reasons for looking into surgery include: • Noticing a change in a mole, a new lump or bump, birthmarks on others including children and partners • Mothers who have completed their family and are looking to address abdominal protrusion or lower abdominal skin excess • Excess skin following weight loss • The ‘zoom’ effect with attention drawn to wrinkles, scars, eye-lid bags and jowls Chris prides himself on providing each individual with a professional, bespoke and compassionate approach with a gentle bedside manner and discretion at the heart of every consultation. He has clinics in Marylebone, Chelsea and Wimbledon and in June 2021, he opened a brand new clinic at 84 Harley Street.

More information is available at www.chrisabela.co.uk

If you have any questions, please contact Chris at info@chrisabela.co.uk or on 0203 545 2990

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LIFE MAGAZINES The Connaught Bar has held onto its hard-earned crown for another year as No.1 bar in the world, awarded by the prestigious World’s 50 Best Bars Awards last night. The Connaught Bar at The Connaught Mayfair, renowned for exceptional craftsmanship, landmark cocktails and daring new mixes - has had a place on the Best Bar’s list since 2010, rising from second place on the 2019 list. The London Antique Rug and Textile Art Fair (LARTA) returns to Evolution London, Battersea Park after the annual event was held online only in 2021. Eighteen of the best dealers from around the UK and France will be exhibiting a rich blend of carpets, rugs and textiles on the mezzanine of The Decorative Fair. LARTA is the UK’s only specialist event for fine textile art, antique carpets, vintage rugs and associated works of art. The last 18 months has seen the parks become an even more essential backdrop to our lives, offering a sense of normality in a changing world and at times being literally the only places to go. This winter, Royal Parks are asking for your donations to support their work caring for the nature, landscapes and rich heritage that make the Royal Parks what they are for everyone who needs them. From boating lakes to birdsong, grand gardens to kids’ playgrounds, visit the parks today and find your escape from city life. The Ritz London is the proud owner of a Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase. Described as the Rolls- Royce of Rolls-Royce’s, the hotel’s iconic 8th generation Phantom EWB is the authoritative statement of modern luxury.

Faye Manning Editor

EDITOR FAYE MANNING EDITORIAL ASSISTANT KATIE MILLER SUB EDITOR NICHOLAS PETER FASHION EDITOR LARA ACCISON DESIGN & PRODUCTION LISA WADE SOCIAL MEDIA PARKER JONES ACCOUNT MANAGERS VANESSA LANE, NICOLA DREW, LISA WESTERMAN ACCOUNTS KATHY MANNING, ANDREE GEORGIOU DIRECTORS RORY SMITH, PATRICK SMITH PUBLISHED BY FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD 0844 800 8439 WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM © All Rights Reserved. Life Magazines are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd. takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in these publications and any loss arising therefrom. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to Life Magazines, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for the loss or damage to such material. Fish Media Group Ltd. reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication. Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any mistakes and no responsibility can be taken for the content of these pages.

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ROLL INTO THE RITZ!

The Ritz London’s Rolls-Royce Phantom

he Ritz London is the proud owner of a Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase. Described as the RollsRoyce of Rolls-Royce’s, the hotel’s iconic 8th generation Phantom EWB is the authoritative statement of modern luxury. The elegant Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB has been built by hand in England in the manufacturer’s headquarters in Goodwood in Sussex, and is custom crafted to hotel’s design. With its commanding silhouette and striking chrome detailing, the motorcar is bespoke Ritz blue and features moccasin leather interiors with monogrammed navy blue carpets and navy seat piping, as well as unique headrests embroidered with a blue Ritz lion and front massage seats. The motorcar provides the quietest cabin Rolls-Royce has ever created with an incomparably spacious Suite, enhanced by discreet technology. A complimentary one-way airport transfer within The Ritz-Rolls Royce Phantom is offered

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to all guests staying in one of the hotel’s four signature suites, and the motorcar is also available for hire as an exclusive service to hotel guests. ABOUT THE RITZ LONDON The Ritz London, the iconic landmark conceived by renowned hotelier César Ritz, first opened its doors in 1906. Perfectly located in a landmark position in the heart of London’s West End, The Ritz is moments from the finest shopping destinations the Capital has to offer, including the luxury designer brands of Bond Street and Regent Street and the unique and quintessentially British boutiques of Jermyn Street. Throughout its distinguished history, the iconic hotel has been at the heart of London society and continued to play host to Royalty, aristocracy, stars of stage and screen and countless other discerning guests. The first and only hotel to have received a Royal Warrant from His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, The Ritz has deservedly taken its place amongst the great hotels of the world and is the benchmark by which other hotels are measured. Most recently, The Ritz Restaurant was awarded a Michelin Star in the Michelin Guide Great Britain and Ireland 2017. Following refurbishment it is sparklingly renewed though still retains the luxurious Louis XVI style interiors, meticulous service and the exquisite bar and restaurants for which The Ritz name is synonymous.

“A complimentary one-way airport transfer within The Ritz-Rolls Royce Phantom is offered to all guests staying in one of the hotel’s four signature suites, and the motorcar is also available for hire as an exclusive service to hotel guests”

THE DETAILS The Ritz London, 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR Telephone: 020 7493 8181 theritzlondon.com

COVER STORY

BBC SEVEN WORLDS ONE PLANET

LIVE IN CONCERT

The O2 Arena, London 31st March 2022 BAFTA winning British Explorer, Naturalist and TV Presenter Steve Backshall to host special UK Premiere Ahead of this much anticipated event, we chatted to Steve Backshall about being the host in 2022. There’s been other natural history shows performed live with music before, but this new production is on another level. Can you tell us about why it’s going to be such an event? This is simply an extravaganza of both sight and sound which is going to completely overwhelm people’s senses. It showcases the very best of glorious, glamourous, blue-chip natural history on a giant screen, backed by a full live 80-piece orchestra, which is something that all too rarely gets to happen. This is my first opportunity to do one, so I’m very excited. The show itself was hosted by the greatest broadcaster of all time, Sir David Attenborough, so I have to find a way of trying to step into his shoes! The music by Zimmer and Shea is more than just a score, it’s an essential part of the production. How important do you feel it is for music to help convey the emotion and messages of a production like this one? It’s critical. It’s an area that I’ve not had a tremendous amount of involvement with, as the

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shows I have made just haven’t had the kind of budget you need to commission a score by Hans Zimmer. When you watch those kinds of shows, they have this ability to make your heart soar, but then can make it plummet with a moment of fear or terror when we are being shown environmental degradation. It has an unparalleled ability to steer or enhance your emotions. Either the visuals or the sound of this show would be enough for me to go and see it if I wasn’t involved! Seven Worlds, One Planet was the BBC’s most-watched factual programme of 2019 and now it’s being shown live to an audience of thousands. It must be encouraging that so many people, both young and old, are engaging with something that has such an important message beyond just entertainment? This isn’t just for conservationists or biologists, it is something that anyone can appreciate and be moved by, which is really important. These programmes bring people to the natural world

“When you watch those kinds of shows, they have this ability to make your heart soar, but then can make it plummet with a moment of fear or terror when we are being shown environmental degradation”

never seen before, or have a massive rock fall on your head! It’s that sense of the unknown that is really exciting to me. It’s been the great privilege of my adult life to repeatedly have that opportunity. That’s something special and that I will be most grateful to have experienced. Lastly, if anyone is undecided about coming to The O2 in March to see Seven Worlds, One Planet…why should they be making a point of attending? At the moment, this is a one-off opportunity to see something that visually and aurally will be completely unmatched. It’s going to be a very special evening. It’s going to be unforgettable!

and all those marvels and wonders that they may never get to see with their own eyes. Or potentially they will, as these shows could start a whole new fascination in their lives that leads towards them seeing these things for themselves. They can lead people to conservation and the natural world, which has never been more important to be doing than it is right now. The series was narrated by Sir David Attenborough himself, who’s voice will still be heard at the show. How much of an influence and inspiration has he been to you personally? He is everything. I’ve been lucky enough to meet him several times and even present a couple of awards ceremonies alongside him. We did an awards show for the 100th anniversary of the Wildlife Trust at the Natural History Museum. Myself and a few other people spoke, which we had all spent ages planning for, then Sir David stepped up and spoke for an hour without any slides or preparation. He didn’t hesitate once and had the entire room hanging on every single syllable. The man has an absolutely unparalleled gift as a storyteller and a broadcaster. You’ve already had a long career that has taken you all over the world, what has been the real highlights for you personally? I would probably treasure the expeditions most, where you don’t know what’s going to happen next. There could be a major discovery around the next corner, or you could find a new species you’ve

THE DETAILS For more details and to purchase tickets visit seven-worlds-one-planetlive.co.uk Seven Worlds, One Planet – Live in Concert, The O2 Arena Tickets: £65/£55/£45 *under 14 discount tickets available Box Office: theo2.co.uk or 0844 856 0202 axs.com; eventim.co.uk; ticketmaster.co.uk; seetickets.com

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Banff Mountain Film Festival Tour brings epic adventure in 2022

he Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is back for 2022, bringing the latest action and adventure films to venues around the UK and Ireland. Starring intrepid characters, extreme expeditions and stunning cinematography, the tour features two new collections of inspirational films from the wildest corners of the planet. “We are so excited to be sharing these aweinspiring new films with audiences around the UK and Ireland – up on the big screen!” says tour director Nell Teasdale. “As well as adrenalinepacked stories from the world’s best adventure filmmakers, Banff events are a celebration of the great outdoors with a vibrant atmosphere – and we guarantee audiences will leave inspired to have an adventure of their own too.” As well as thrilling films, each event features a free prize draw for outdoorsy goodies from the tour’s partners. Banff tour films are chosen from hundreds of entries into the Banff Mountain Film Festival, which is held every November in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. The UK and Ireland tour starts in Leicester on 27 January and finishes in Cambridge on 28 May.

Film highlights include: Exit the North Pole In 24-hour darkness and with temperatures down to -40, polar explorers Børge Ousland and Mike Horn attempt the unimaginable: a 1,500km ski expedition across the frozen Arctic Ocean, via the North Pole. With drifting ice and the threat of polar bears, this gruelling journey has been described as the boldest polar expedition of modern times. 36 JANUARY 2022

Dream Mountain, defying societal norms, elite climber Pasang Lhamu Sherpa Akita has had a trailblazing career, summiting K2, Everest and other world-class peaks. Life changed with the birth of her son, but Pasang decides that to be the best mother she can, she needs to follow her dreams again. Transcending expectations and returning to her life-long passion, Pasang attempts her dream mountain: a spectacular Nepalese peak called Cholatse. Link Sar is the compelling story of the first ascent of one of the last great unclimbed mountains in Pakistan’s Karakoram range: Link Sar at 7,041m. Avalanches and a 36-hour storm cause American alpinist Graham Zimmerman and his team to question their motivations and relationships, in an expedition that earns them mountaineering’s most prestigious award: the Piolet d’Or.

THE DETAILS The full line-up of new 2022 films will be announced shortly. For more information and to book tickets, see banff-uk.com. #Banff2022

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THE CONNAUGHT BAR IS NAMED

THE WORLD’S BEST BAR FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

continued to maintain its position at the forefront of the London cocktail scene, offering a mix of traditional cocktails with innovative twists, and has spearheaded the art of table side theatre with its signature Martini trolley. Cocktail lovers can enjoy a little of the bar’s magic this festive season with The Connaught Bar’s Collection. This features the bar’s cocktail shaker in silver and engraved, a whole host of bespoke glassware and The Connaught Bar Gin distilled and bottled in Mayfair.

he Connaught Bar has held onto its hard-earned crown for another year as No.1 bar in the world, awarded by the prestigious World’s 50 Best Bars Awards last night. The Connaught Bar at The Connaught Mayfair, renowned for exceptional craftsmanship, landmark cocktails and daring new mixes - has had a place on the Best Bar’s list since 2010, rising from second place on the 2019 list. This year is the second time that this institution for cocktail lovers has been named the official winner – a feat that previously only two bars have achieved in the awards’ 13-year history. Agostino Perrone, Director of Mixology accepted the bar’s award with his team, and said “ It was an emotional evening, as we celebrated this exceptional award with our industry friends. After another challenging year in hospitality, the industry’s resilience and unity through these times has been extraordinary. Our commitment to this industry and to our beloved guests has been our fundamental driver for the past 13 years. We will continue to work hard and keep up - as individuals, professionals, but foremost, as a team and a bar community to inspire the next generation.” The Connaught Bar opened at the hotel in 2008, designed by David Collins Studio and has

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About The Connaught In the heart of London’s Mayfair, The Connaught, part of Maybourne Hotel Group, blends contemporary style, classic English character and impeccable service to create the ultimate in sophistication. Rooms and suites to suit every mood, exquisite cuisine from Hélène Darroze and Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the charm of The Connaught and Coburg Bars, and Europe’s first Aman Spa make this the perfect place to rest, relax and dine in style. the-connaught.co.uk

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WHAT DOES YOUR FAVOURITE ROYAL PARK MEAN TO YOU? Kensington Gardens

GREENWICH PARK

he last 18 months has seen the parks become an even more essential backdrop to our lives, offering a sense of normality in a changing world and at times being literally the only places to go. This winter, Royal Parks are asking for your donations to support their work caring for the nature, landscapes and rich heritage that make the Royal Parks what they are for everyone who needs them. From boating lakes to birdsong, grand gardens to kids’ playgrounds, visit the parks today and find your escape from city life.

KENSINGTON GARDENS Covering an area of 265 acres, Kensington Gardens is planted with magnificent trees and ornamental flower beds. It is a perfect setting for Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, Peter Pan statue and the Serpentine Gallery. Did you know? you can pick up tips for growing fruit and vegetables from the park’s very own allotment which is also home to a number of chickens.

year round so brave folk can swim in frigid waters, sometimes as cold as 4C. Hyde Park

BUSHY PARK

Richmond Park

HYDE PARK Once the hunting ground for Henry VIII, this large royal park is best known for its famous Speakers’ Corner and Serpentine Lake, home to waterfowl and oarsmen. The Lido only opens for the summer, but the Swimming Club is open all 40 JANUARY 2022

The 74-hectare space is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it overlooks the National Maritime Museum and the Old Royal Naval College. It is an amazing mix of 17th century landscape, stunning gardens and a rich history that dates back to Roman times and a small herd of Fallow and Red deer. There’s also a children’s playground where kids can run around and exhaust themselves.

RICHMOND PARK One of London’s most breathtaking landscapes, the 1,012-hectare space is made up of woodland, grassland and ponds attracting hedgehogs and bats

At over 1000 acres, Bushy Park lies just north of Hampton Court Palace and is famed for its mix of waterways, gardens, and roaming herds of red and fallow deer. Visit the Upper Lodge Water Gardens, a historic gem hidden away in the north of the park. See if you can spot the arresting birdlife, from kingfishers to kestrels. And enjoy a walk in the peaceful Woodland Gardens.

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St James’s Park

hibernating in winter. But the park is best known for its 630 wild red and fallow deer. Discover the Isabella Plantation woodland gardens, refuel at Pembroke Lodge tea rooms and enjoy distant views of St Paul’s Cathedral from King Henry’s Mound.

Green Park

When other locations were forced to close, Royal Parks worked even harder to make sure they were there for everyone who needed them, providing free access to nature, playgrounds and spaces to exercise, all while managing biodiversity and preserving the landscapes’ rich heritage.

ST JAMES PARK St James’s Park includes The Mall and Horse Guards Parade, and surrounded by landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Clarence House and Whitehall. The park’s famous flower beds are a familiar backdrop to pageants including Trooping the Colour, as well as state visits and other ceremonial occasions. Enjoy impressive views of the lake and fountain, watch the resident pelicans at feeding time, or while away a sunny afternoon in a deckchair. Regent’s Park

BROMPTON CEMETERY The Grade I listed Brompton Cemetery is the wellloved resting place of over 200,000 people and a haven for wildlife. Nestled among the spectacular trees and undergrowth are over 35,000 gravestones and monuments with the amazing stories of all the people buried there since the 1830s, including some well-known names like Emmeline Pankhurst and John Snow.

VICTORIA TOWER GARDENS

THE REGENT’S PARK ‘Regent’s Park’ covers 197 hectares, consisting of formal gardens, shrubberies, sports pitches, rough grassland, a large lake, small enclosed wood and a canal. Regents Park also houses various structures and organisations, including the iconic ZSL London Zoo. Walk through the elegant flowerbeds in the Avenue Gardens, see more than 12,000 roses in Queen Mary’s Gardens, or hire a rowing boat and join the ducks on the boating lake.

YOUR GIFT TO THE ROYAL PARKS

A small pocket of green space in the heart of Westminster, between the Houses of Parliament, the River Thames, Millbank and Lambeth Bridge. Look out for memorials celebrating freedom, including the Buxton Memorial which marks the abolition of slavery. And for children the Horseferry Playground includes a sandpit, dance chimes and a water play feature. Whatever personal connection you have with your Royal Parks, your gift will go towards conserving and improving the 5,000 acres of parkland in our care, impacting the lives of millions of people each year.

That work never stops, with park teams out and about all year round tending to the special places that have become like a second home for many. If you value your Royal Parks please make a donation. Your gift will help care for precious green space in London that plays an essential role in the lives of millions of people each year. Please give what you can by visiting royalparks.org.uk/ support-the-parks

Victoria Tower Gardens

THE GREEN PARK ‘Green Park’ is a peaceful refuge; a triangle of mature trees and grasslands, offering a quiet retreat from city life, right next to Buckingham Palace. Visit a range of memorials, fountains and statues and look out for Royal Gun Salutes when ceremonial guns are fired to mark special royal occasions. 42 JANUARY 2022

Brompton Cemetary

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WITH ALL MY HEART The new Valentine’s Collection from Pierre Marcolini Available at Pierre Marcolini Marylebone, Harrods and Selfridges

utstanding chocolate boxes, patisserie, hamper assortments all made with love and the strawberry fruit, are now available for St Valentine’s 2022. Following Pierre’s win last year, crowned as ‘Best Pastry Chef in the World’, he is showing off his love for patisserie within this collection. For the first time ever, Pierre is launching the ‘Kumo’ which is ‘a tribute to Japanese poetry’ this will be like nothing people have had before. Madagascan vanilla cream seasoned with Timut pepper and a hint of mint, accompanied by a heart of ‘Mara des Bois’ strawberry jam and topped with a white chocolate disc stamped with patterns of the collection. Also, a hazelnut cookie topped with light cream and a chocolate disc to try. For two people to enjoy the ‘Duo Entremets’, a lemony and sesame nougatine base, filled with a strawberry confit, with a light vanilla mousse, touch of Timut Pepper in a white chocolate shell, with a signature raspberry heart on top. Chocolate heart boxes are new for this year, with a declaration of love in 5 shades of pralines and ganaches: subtle fruity flavours of passion fruit, raspberry, strawberry, salted butter caramel, and almond praline. Further chocolate creations

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are also set to launch, with the Praline Chocolate Heart, which wears a lace design for this year and of course no collection is complete without Pierre’s famous Chocolate Tablet, this year in white chocolate flavoured with strawberry and sprinkled with fine dried strawberry petals.

PRICE LIST: CHOCOLATES Malline of 25 Hearts - £29.00 Plumier of 15 Hearts - £19.90 Praline Heart - £9.90 White Chocolate and Strawberry Tablet - £8.00 Two, three and four drawer Chocolate Boxes £64.00/£99.00/£104.00 Gift Assortment Box - £66.00 Hamper Assortment Box - £104.00

PATISSERIE Duo Entremets Cake - £15.00 Kumo (individual piece) - £3.50 Available to buy from the Pierre Marcolini Marylebone boutique, counters in Selfridges, Harrods and online via eu.marcolini.com facebook.com/PierreMarcolini Twitter/Instagram - @pierremarcolin

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2CELLOS World Tour 2022 Due to phenomenal demand, Final Ever UK Show Added! Bank Holiday Friday 3rd June 2022. The SSE Arena, Wembley

ABOUT 2CELLOS 2CELLOS is the eclectic, international sensation comprised of two classically trained cellists who reached video viral fame on YouTube from their 2011 rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal.” The pair, Luka Šulić and HAUSER, have since created a name for themselves with their electric and dynamic playing style. Together, 2CELLOS have amassed a staggering 1.3 billion YouTube views, 5.5 million YouTube subscribers, 1 billion streams, and have sold nearly 1 million tickets. 2CELLOS have taken the cello to unimagined heights as their signature style breaks down the boundaries between genres of music, from classical and film music, to pop and rock. Known for their electric live performances, 2CELLOS have sold out shows across the globe at historic venues including New York City’s Radio City Music Hall, London’s Royal Albert Hall and the Sydney Opera House. The duo has performed alongside musical greats Steven Tyler, Andrea Bocelli, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Queens of the Stone Age and George Michael, to name a few, and was handpicked by Sir Elton John to perform both as an opener as well as part of the iconic singer’s live band. 2CELLOS are celebrating their 10th anniversary this year, and are working hard to continue reaching new stratospheres. 46 JANUARY 2022

aving spent the last ten years together as 2CELLOS, releasing six studio albums, amassing billions of streams, performing at iconic venues across the globe and selling nearly 1 million tickets to their electric live performances, the duo of Luka Šulić and HAUSER today announce the next leg of their world tour and reveal that 2022 will be the last tour together as 2CELLOS. The pair says: This tour is the culmination of everything we have achieved as the 2CELLOS. These will be our biggest shows, playing to some

of the biggest audiences. We have climbed the mountain together and we have reached the peak of what we can do together. We’ll put everything we have learnt from playing together into these dates. They will be intense, they will rock, they will be touching, they will be emotional. We are going to throw everything at them - and then we can rest the 2CELLOS. Are you ready to celebrate with us?!” Hospitality and VIP ticket options available. To purchase tickets visit ssearena.co.uk eventim.co.uk

Join us for Valentine’s Day £198 per couple This includes: A taste of romance with a 5 course Meal + Tea/Coffee A bottle of Champagne for the table Luxury Small Bouquet of Roses for the table to take home Love Chocolates to-go Live Jazz Band

Exclusive offer when booking the Valentines Package Stay the night with us for only £115 B&B on Saturday 12th February.

Grims Dyke Hotel, Old Redding, Harrow Weald, HA3 6SH, England. 020 8385 3100

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Journey through a colourful Costa Rican Paradise:

Kew Gardens’ Orchid Festival returns for 2022 Saturday 5 February – Sunday 6 March 2022, Princess of Wales Conservatory

ew Gardens’ much-loved annual orchid festival returns, taking inspiration from the rich and colourful culture of Costa Rica, where visitors can escape the UK’s winter weather and embrace the sights and sounds of this internationally recognised biodiversity haven. For 2022, the route around the Princess of Wales Conservatory will be designed to recreate the varied and verdant landscape of Costa Rica, transporting visitors through the wonders of this biodiversity hotspot, from the tropical dry forest of the north Pacific, to the rainforests of the southern coastline. Throughout their journey around the glasshouse, visitors will encounter an assortment of native animals replicated across a series of stunning horticultural displays. Monkeys, sea turtles, toads and hummingbirds- all intricately hand-crafted from plants- will burst into colourful life for the duration of the festival. The central display in the glasshouse pond will be filled with brilliant vibrant orchids and bromeliads.

THE DETAILS Entry to Orchids is included when purchasing a ticket to Kew Gardens, visitors must book separate timed entry slots for Orchids 2022. The best value tickets can be booked in advance via kew.org

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Kew’s focus on Costa Rica for Orchids 2022 will highlight the country’s unique position as a biodiversity hotspot, as recently recognised by the country being awarded the inaugural Protect and Restore Nature Earthshot Prize. Home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity, despite covering just 0.03% of the planet, Costa Rica is a role model for the conservation of biodiversity; with around a quarter of its land part of a protected forest or reserve. RBG Kew has many collaborative scientific projects located in Costa Rica, which include constructing a ‘family tree’ for all of its orchid species to learn how to better protect them, and documenting plants in La Amistad Biosphere Reserve - one of the richest places on Earth for plant diversity. What Kew are doing to keep visitors safe The safety and wellbeing of visitors is of the utmost importance to them and are continually monitoring and responding to the Covid-19 pandemic as it evolves. They are adhering to government advice to ensure visitors and staff remain safe while enjoying Orchids 2022. Safety measures will reflect government advice at the time of the exhibition run and will be clearly communicated across RBG Kew’s channels and onsite.

Photography by Paul Craig

Engineered Walnut Pre-lacquered

Beautiful flooring, designed to last

Photography by Paul Craig

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Beautiful flooring, designed to last

020 8871 9771 SHOWROOM 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG w w w.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk 020 8871 9771

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Star Wars concept artwork poster sells for more than £53,000 By Alex Green

n original piece of concept artwork for Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back has sold at auction for £53,125. The full-colour painted piece from 1980, the year the film was released, went under the hammer as part of the Prop Store’s live cinema poster online auction, which fetched a total of more than £384,000. The piece by Josh Kirby was expected to sell for up to £8,000. The second film in the Star Wars film series, The Empire Strikes Back became the highest-grossing film that year, earning around 401.5 million US dollars worldwide. The artwork features characters from the franchise including Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Han Solo and the droids R2-D2 and C-3PO. Elsewhere in the sale, a Star Wars film poster from 1978 wishing its recipient a happy first birthday sold for £5,000. Another poster, from Star Wars: A New Hope in 1977 featuring the tagline “A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away” sold for £4,062. Other posters featured among the lots were for films such as Apocalypse Now, The Brides Of 52 JANUARY 2022

Dracula, The Day The Earth Stood Still and Evil Dead. Prop Store chief executive Stephen Lane said: “We continue to exceed all expectations and produce another phenomenal auction. “Alternative movie posters continue to increase in popularity and value, and items from the Bryan Fuller and Charles Lippincott collections sold exceptionally well. “Our global bidders were very active throughout the auction and we’re looking forward to presenting another outstanding collection of posters in April 2022.” Mark Hochman, the auction house’s poster expert, added: “Prop Store’s first two-day poster auction proved to be a special event and more successful than we could have hoped for in the current climate, with our Star Wars content proving incredibly popular and very well received with an incredible £53,125 being achieved for our Empire Strikes Back original artwork painting. “There were certainly some impressive sale prices across the whole auction with the Howard Kazanjian and Bryan Fuller collections reaching impressive prices, with once again our Alternative Movie Poster offerings one of the standout categories.”

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The best bars in the world 3. Paradiso, Barcelona: Not all is as it seems at Paradiso: to enter the bar, you first have to walk through a fridge door in a pastrami shop. Inside, the speakeasy is housed within curved wooden panels, and the drinks can be extravagant events – from a negroni served inside a mini dry ice ‘volcano’ to cocktails drunk from large shells.

Paradiso in Barcelona. A drink at the Connaught Bar in London

f you want your next cocktail to be really special, don’t just walk into any old establishment – kick things up a notch by going to one of the best bars on the planet. This year’s list of the World’s 50 Best Bars has been announced, with London-based watering holes making two appearances in the top five. Other entries include Shanghai bars with cocktail lists inspired by astrology, and art deco speakeasies in Mexico City. Here’s a glimpse into the top five, and a look at some of the quirkiest other bars on the list…

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Salmon Guru, Madrid: The drinks at Salmon Guru have to be seen to be believed, with CN Traveller calling them “sippable works of art”. Cocktails are served in everything from a porcelain fire-breathing wolf to a glass egg – and the decor is just as outlandish to match. El Copitas, St Petersburg: Transport yourself to Mexico in this St Petersburg bar dedicated to all things agave. Small but perfectly formed, expect tequila, mezcal and Mexican snacks to go with your drink.

Drink Kong, Rome: The awards proclaims Drink Kong has “one of the coolest decors” in the business. Interiors are like a “Japanese Blade Runner”, with minimalist furniture and neon lights everywhere.

THE TOP FIVE…

2. Tayēr + Elementary, London: This is a bar of two halves: first you have Elementary, in a relaxed, industrial-style space with big windows – and all the mixed drinks come premade, on tap. When you pass through a partition you’ll reach Tayēr – it’s darker, sexier, and the elaborate cocktails are made to order.

A TASTE OF THE REST…

Atlas, Singapore: This ornate art deco bar has one particularly standout feature: an impressive tower of 1,300 different brands of gin. With leather booths and a plush red carpet, it feels straight out of the Great Gatsby.

Atlas in Singapore.

1. Connaught Bar, London: The awards describes Connaught Bar as “the quintessential London hotel bar”, but with an Italian flair. This is the second year in a row it’s claimed the top spot, showing it’s worthy of a visit – just make sure to order the signature dry martini.

By Prudence Wade

4. The Clumsies, Athens: This impressive establishment is housed in a townhouse, with multiple floors of moody bars, rustic wooden tables and a pool table. According to the awards, at The Clumsies you can order “some of the most inventive cocktails that can be found anywhere”. 5. Florería Atlántico, Buenos Aires: This basement bar is hidden underneath a floristmeets-wine store, and pays tribute to Argentina’s indigenous communities with its cocktail menu.

1930, Milan: Don’t expect easy entry to this mysterious Milanese bar. The address is secret – there’s no website and you won’t be able to Google it. You’ll have to charm your way into the bar, knowing the right people to ask instead. Once there, this establishment is all about Prohibition-era glamour and modern drinks (apparently).

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ASTON MARTIN VALHALLA:

Sensational hybrid supercar defines the mastery of driving

ston Martin’s transformational journey takes a huge step forwards with the Valhalla concept car - brought to production reality as an extraordinary, truly driver-focused mid-engined hybrid supercar. Valhalla is the latest and most significant product of the brand’s Project Horizon strategy to-date; a car which will broaden the model portfolio to reflect Aston Martin’s presence in Formula One®, set best-in-class standards for performance, dynamics and driving pleasure. Built with chassis, aerodynamic and electronics expertise forged in Formula One® and a cuttingedge hybrid powertrain technology at its heart, Valhalla is a formidable technological showcase. Yet far from engineering the driver out of the loop, Valhalla’s sole focus is immersing them in a new kind of supercar driving experience. With pinpoint handling, prodigious levels of downforce and a breathtaking blend of instant battery-electric torque and the intensity of a scintillating V8 engine, Valhalla’s fusion of raw emotion and hybrid efficiency reflects a new era. Valhalla is at the forefront; an authentic, next generation Aston Martin road racer, designed around the driver, for the driver and built to be enjoyed. With a mid-engined 950bhp gasoline/battery 56 JANUARY 2022

electric powertrain, new carbon fibre structure and aerodynamics, Valhalla will bring the perfect balance of hypercar performance and advanced powertrain, driving dynamics and uniquely sophisticated design materials to truly redefine the supercar sector. At the beating heart of Valhalla is its all-new PHEV powertrain, which features three motors; foremost of these is a rear-mid-mounted 4.0 litre twin-turbo bespoke V8 engine. The most advanced,

“Valhalla’s fusion of raw emotion and hybrid efficiency reflects a new era”

FEATURE

responsive and highest performing V8 engine ever fitted to an Aston Martin, revving to 7200rpm and developing 750PS, sending drive exclusively to the rear axle. Supplementing this new V8 engine is a 150kW/400V battery hybrid system utilising a pair of E-Motors contributing a further 204PS for a headline combined power output of 950PS. Completing the powertrain is an all-new 8-speed DCT transmission, exclusively designed and built for Aston Martin. Electrical power is used to enhance low speed control and response as well as provide reversing capability. Running in EV-only mode, Valhalla will be capable of a maximum 80mph / 130km/h with a zero-emission range of 15km. Unleashing all 950PS the Valhalla will reach a top speed of 217mph / 330km/h and will complete the sprint from 0-62mph in just 2.5 seconds. In terms of its structure, Valhalla is built around a new a carbon fibre tub for maximum stiffness with minimum weight penalty. Featuring Formula One® style push rod front suspension complete with inboard mounted springs and dampers reducing unsprung mass and provides a brilliant packaging solution. In addition to stiffer suspension, Track mode sees ride height dramatically reduced in order to maximise downforce. High performance Carbon Ceramic Matrix 58 JANUARY 2022

brakes (complete with brake-by-wire technology) guarantee exceptional stopping power, and bespoke Michelin tyres specifically for Valhalla provide a final and all-important layer of excellence. This intimate, uncorrupted connection between driver and car sits at the core of the Valhalla experience, with advanced materials and electronics serving only to enhance the driver’s enjoyment, confidence and sense of complete control. Valhalla, the luxury brands first series production mid-engined supercar will be available in both left-hand and right-hand drive, expanding its appeal across international markets. An innovative new Aston Martin HMI system features a central touchscreen display and incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In order to comply with the latest regulatory requirements, Valhalla also incorporates the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. These include Auto Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Active Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear View Parking Camera (with Surround View option). Valhalla is a new generation Aston Martin, it defines a new driver and driving experience – ‘the Mastery of Driving’, a true ultra-luxury, exclusive, British supercar. astonmartin.com

“ Valhalla, the luxury brands first series production midengined supercar will be available in both left-hand and righthand drive, expanding its appeal across international markets”

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THE RED

ROOM AT THE CONNAUGHT The hotel’s newest bar is an homage to extraordinary female artists

ruby-red hologram, from an untitled series of 8 holographic pieces from 1998. California-based photographer Trina McKillen addresses themes of beauty and ugliness, spirituality and profanity and life and death through her work. ‘Scarlet Mist’ dominates another wall - an oil painting by Vietnamese Ti-a Thuy Nguyen - bought by McKillen, all proceeds of which go to fighting AIDS in Africa. Finally, New York-based Jenny Holzer’s ‘Benghazi’ is a graphite and watercolour modification of previously censored US government documents in a brilliant shade of red.

Design The bar is designed by Bryan O’Sullivan – who continues to put his signature stamp on Maybourne drinking spots having designed The Berkeley Bar & Terrace, and The Painter’s Room, recently opened at Claridge’s.

Food and drink

he Connaught, in the heart of Mayfair, has opened its newest bar in over a decade. Joining the hotel’s renowned bars including The Connaught Bar, rated the world’s best, The Red Room aptly describes what lies within – a collection of red works by four female visionaries, from one of the most celebrated of our time, to a young pioneering Vietnamese artist.

Art Perhaps the most important piece hangs over the central marble fireplace, ‘I Am Rouge’ by celebrated French-American artist Louise Bourgeois. Another piece by Bourgeois is a 62 JANUARY 2022

Wine is at the heart of The Red Room. The Connaught’s legendary wine cellar features over 3000 different labels and over 30,000 bottles, showcased in this new space. Red heroes include a 1994 Petrus (the most famous Merlot in the world) and a 2011 Richebourg Grand Cru by the legendary Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. The world’s most famous Chardonnay – a 2016 Montrachet Grand Cru, produced by Domaine Thenard – is available alongside a 2018 Sauvignon Blanc from the esteemed Eisele Vineyards in the Napa Valley. A capsule list of six cocktails has been created by Agostino Perrone, Director of Mixology, inspired by the bar’s wine selection, and will change seasonally as the wine list evolves. A menu of charcuterie – featuring British cheeses and hand-carved hams – including veal carpaccio, Gochuchang chicken oysters and kale tempura, has been designed to complement the wine list.

THE RED ROOM AT THE CONNAUGHT Opening hours are 4pm – midnight, Wednesday – Saturday. the-connaught.co.uk/restaurantsbars/red-room

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Looking Good Dead Richmond Theatre from Mon 14 – Sat 19 February.

eter James is a number one bestselling author of crime and thriller novels and the creator of the much-loved Detective Superintendent Roy Grace, now a major ITV series, “Grace”. Looking Good Dead is Peter’s fifth novel to be brought to the stage and follows the hugely successful productions of “The House on Cold Hill” starring Joe McFadden and Rita Simons in 2019 and “Not Dead Enough” starring Shane Richie and Laura Whitmore in 2017. ‘No good deed goes unpunished…. hours after picking up a USB memory stick, left behind on a train seat, Tom Bryce (Adam Woodyatt) inadvertently becomes a witness to a vicious murder. Reporting the crime to the police has disastrous consequences, placing him and his family in grave danger. When Detective Superintendent Roy Grace becomes involved, he has his own demons to contend with while he tries to crack the case in time to save the Bryce family’s lives.’ Laurie Brett will reunite with Adam Woodyatt to play husband and wife Tom and Kellie Bryce. Laurie and Adam famously starred as husband and wife Ian and Jane Beale in BBC’s “EastEnders”. Adam Woodyatt is the longest-serving cast member in “EastEnders” having appeared continuously as Ian Beale since the show began in 1985. Looking Good Dead marks Adam’s return to stage in a play for the first time since 1982, as a 13-year-old at the National Theatre in Tom Stoppard’s “On The Razzle”. Adam has

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also appeared on many TV programmes including “Robot Wars”, “Dream House”, “A Question of Sport” and last year was a contestant on “I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!”. Laurie Brett’s additional TV credits include DC Gemma Darlington in Channel 4’s “Deadwater Fell” and Christine Mulgrew in the BBC’s “Waterloo Road”. No stranger to the stage, her many theatre credits include “Les Misérables” in the West End, “Smokey Joe’s Café” and Magenta in “The Rocky Horror Show” opposite Jason Donovan. Looking Good Dead will keep you on the edge of your seat until the chilling final moments!

THE DETAILS See the gripping new play Looking Good Dead at Richmond Theatre from Mon 14 – Sat 19 February. atgtickets.com/Richmond

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The London Antique Rug & Textile Art Fair is back Tuesday 25th to Sunday 30th January 2022, Battersea Evolution

he London Antique Rug and Textile Art Fair (LARTA) returns to Evolution London, Battersea Park after the annual event was held online only in 2021. Eighteen of the best dealers from around the UK and France will be exhibiting a rich blend of carpets, rugs and textiles on the mezzanine of The Decorative Fair. LARTA is the UK’s only specialist event for fine textile art, antique carpets, vintage rugs and associated works of art. Launched in 2011, the LARTA Fair is an important date for interior decorators, collectors, and discerning buyers looking for practical and decorative rugs and textiles to beautify their homes. At LARTA 2022 the expert dealers are offering items originating from Persia, India, China, Japan, Central Asia, Anatolia and the Caucasus, as well as from Europe, Africa and the Americas. Find early Coptic pieces to fine Persian wool rugs, tribal rugs, room-sized carpets, kilims and vintage Berber rugs to 17th century tapestries, ikat, cushions, antique

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“Launched in 2011, the LARTA Fair is an important date for interior decorators, collectors, and discerning buyers” costumes and much more. Organiser, Aaron Nejad of Aaron Nejad Gallery said, “We have a full complement of exhibitors, all of us keen to get back to meeting interior designers, collectors and clients, old and new, face to face. With so many of us around the world spending more time at home, the focus is on interiors and enjoying where we live. For those who are not able to come to the Fair, we continue to run our simultaneous online event, LARTA Online, on our website larta.net, mirroring some items for sale at our Battersea event.” From left: Gideon Hatch ‘Padina’ hand knotted in India, hand spun Turkish wool, available to order in any size and colours, £750 per sq. m; Emily’s House London, mid-century Moroccan Beni rug, 170cmx290cm, £1,650; James Cohen Antique Carpets, antique Akstafa rug, Shirvan area, north-east Caucasus, wool, circa 1860.

THE DETAILS Tickets are £20 each for the opening day (Tuesday 25 January) or £10 each for subsequent days. Book online through Eventbrite: https://tinyurl.com/d2heekns Tickets also give visitors full access to The Decorative Fair. For more information, Covid regulations and LARTA Online 2022 visit larta.net or follow on Instagram @lartarugfair for updates.

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TOP DRAWER S/S22 Olympia London, 16-18 January

op Drawer will go ahead as planned with COVID pass and mandatory face coverings in place. The destination for creative retail buyers opens its doors in January for its S/S22 edition. With a focus on helping you reinvent your new season edit, Top Drawer promises to help you find something new to excite your customers for 2022. With safety remaining paramount we are working closely with the Association of Event Organisers (AEO), which is liaising with the government directly on live event guidelines. Continuing to follow government guidance we have updated our safety policy to include mandatory use of face coverings. We were already conducting a COVID pass policy for entry. Show Director Russell Rule comments: “We are committed to bringing you Top Drawer S/S22 in a safe environment that you can feel comfortable attending for your yearly buying needs. We have run successful trade shows up to now following the above safety measures and requiring a COVID pass for entry, the only new introduction being mandatory face coverings. We look forward to seeing you in January to start 2022 on a positive note for the retail industry”. Amongst the line-up you can find new products

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from Aery, Atlantic Folk, Beyond Living, Block Design, Bookspeed, Caroline Gardner, Jellycat, Quail Designs, Repeat Repeat, Talking Tables, Manta Gifts, Luckies of London, Lifeguard Press, Portico Designs, Alex Monroe, Afroart, Big Metal, Canova Gifts, Halcyon Days, Doughnut Bags, Forma House, Half Moon Bay, Lorna Syson, Manta Gifts, Pilgrim, The Art File and S-C Brands, plus many more. Registration to attend Top Drawer is now open, to get your free ticket head to topdrawer.co.uk to get your free ticket and plan your visit.

“We are committed to bringing you Top Drawer S/S22 in a safe environment”

Sale Now On LONDON SHOWROOM 2 New Kings Road, London SW6 4SA Monday to Saturday 10.00am – 5.30pm 020 7736 9693 | info@bazaarvelvet.co.uk | www.bazaarvelvet.co.uk

Come to the home of luxury rugs.

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When the Occasion Demands Meeting, Conference & Retreats at Brocket Hall

ituated just 22 miles from central London, and easily accessible by road, rail and air, Brocket Hall, is an exclusive use luxury venue providing the ultimate in privacy, set in historic parkland, for its corporate clients. This quintessentially English Estate offers a range of outstanding meeting and conference rooms, each with their own unique features, from Chippendale furnishings to ornate hand painted ceilings. Our Events Team are here to assist and guide you in the build-up to your event, and our dedicated Butlers are on hand to anticipate and fulfil your every whim during your occasion. Our renowned chefs can provide outstanding culinary dining and cater to all your requests.

“Our Events Team are here to assist and guide you in the buildup to your event” Providing beautifully decorated bedrooms, each individually furnished with original oil paintings and period furniture, and the option of utilising our on-site outdoor activities - including two championship 18-hole golf courses - Brocket Hall offers the ultimate in luxury for all your business event needs. The Hall operates on an exclusive use basis only so you can be assured of your privacy and security, whilst our dedicated team is yours throughout the 70 JANUARY 2022

duration of your stay with us. For further information on booking our optimum venue for your next event in 2022, please download our overview brochure, visit our website, or contact us directly where we would be delighted to discuss your individual requirements. brocket-hall.co.uk. events@brocket-hall.co.uk 01707 368725

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QUEEN IMMERSIVE STORE ON CARNABY STREET In celebration of five decades in music, one of the world’s most iconic bands, Queen, are featuring in a dedicated pop-up shop on Carnaby Street.

he Shop, ‘Queen The Greatest’ is open until January 2022 with a line-up of limited edition music releases, fashion collaborations and lifestyle products with weekly new product drops and events. Each month has a theme; Music, Art & Design and Magic, with visual installations that act as storytelling from each of Queen’s historic five decades. The ‘Queen The Greatest’ store covers 2 floors – from 70’s thrift store, 80’s iconic live performances and tours, 90’s record store and 00’s DVD homage through to 2010s tech concepts. The new store, created in partnership with Bravado, Universal Music Group’s merchandise and brand management company, features all of the hallmarks of the band. The store includes an exciting apparel collection including exclusive collaborations from a host of fashion brands featuring unisex T-shirts and sweatshirts, denim pieces from Wrangler, some adorned with iconic song titles and solid gold and silver jewellery from British jewellery designer Jonny Hoxton. The proceeds from an exclusive Freddie Mercury T-shirt go to the Mercury Phoenix Trust, founded by Brian May, Roger Taylor and Jim Beach in memory of Freddie Mercury and raises vital funds and awareness for HIV/Aids.

MUSIC MONTH - OCTOBER Limited edition music is available including an exclusive limited edition of a Greatest Hits vinyl, as well as both current and new solo releases from Brian May and Roger Taylor.

ART & DESIGN MONTH - NOVEMBER Showcasing a line-up of collaborative partners including Japanese designer Tokolo, a limited-edition bear from Steiff and a first viewing of a soon to be released pinball machine.

MAGIC MONTH - DECEMBER Fusing the magic of five decades of Queen with the magic of Christmas, including Rubix Cube, Christmas jumpers, cards, wrapping paper and accessories. 72 JANUARY 2022

The store features screens showing archive Queen performances and Instagrammable moments and for those unable to travel to the store, a selection of items including the vinyls is available via: queenonlinestore.com/The-Greatest-Pop-UpStore.

THE DETAILS Queen The Greatest 57 Carnaby Street, W1 Monday – Saturday: 11am – 7pm / Sunday: 12pm – 6pm queenonlinestore.com/ The-Greatest-Pop-Up-Store @officialqueenmusic

Luxury Interior Design www.stuartcarlisle.com

ec@stuartcarlisle.com

stuart_carlisle_interiors

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The Rolling Stones Store CARNABY STREET, SOHO

Image: Claude Gassianc

S No.9 Carnaby is The Rolling Stones’ world-first flagship store on London’s famous Carnaby Street. RS No.9 is a fully immersive experience, featuring exclusive collaborations, official merchandise, limited editions and one-of-akind pieces alongside the band’s classic records and latest music releases. One for super fans are the 10 limited edition signed and numbered framed artworks by John Pasche, the original creator of the iconic Rolling Stones logo, which was first used on the Sticky Fingers LP in 1971. The store’s windows feature a world first soundwave installation – taken from the opening to the 1966 hit track ‘Paint It Black’. The audio of the beginning of the iconic song is visualised as a soundwave and reinterpreted into a striking red metal sculpture. Sound, vision, and lighting are key store components. Inside the shop, fans will discover many of the band’s lyrics displayed across the glass floor, while the fitting rooms are adorned with the artwork from the band’s albums ‘Exile on Main Street’ (1972) and ‘Some Girls’ (1978). Five, 90 inch portrait screens display a film made exclusively for the store showing footage across the rich history of the band. The store also features a bespoke T-shirt customisation station – choose from an array of exclusive designs on the touch screen menu to create something unique. The Rolling Stones said at the time of opening

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in 2020: “Soho has always encapsulated Rock ’n’ Roll so Carnaby Street was the perfect spot for our own store. We are confident this exciting project will be an unrivalled experience for everyone to come to London and enjoy.” Items are also available to purchase online to any fans who can’t visit the store in person. Make sure to follow the store’s official Instagram @rollingstonescarnaby for updates carnaby.therollingstonesshop.co.uk #RSNo9

“Soho has always encapsulated Rock ’n’ Roll so Carnaby Street was the perfect spot for our own store”

Now serving clients in BLACKHEATH, GREENWICH & CANARY WHARF

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L AW

Don’t call me stupid

ot everyone wakes up one morning having had an epiphany. Sometimes it takes a very long time to realise that you are coming to the conclusion that you need to do something with your life, which is frightening. You begin to question why, when reflecting on the past, you have only just reached this decision? And then the 101 questions and self-doubts start. Questions like: how will you manage on your own, can you afford to be on your own and do you even want to be alone? Afterall, you have put up with it for this long – why rock the boat? Are you blowing everything out of proportion? If you have reached this conclusion, surely you should already have answered many of these questions. It is sometimes a struggle to accept these feelings and self-doubt, and to voice these questions out loud. If you ask them now, are you being exactly what you have been told: “you’re just being stupid!” Every individual is different, we don’t look the same so why should we think the same? Despite all this, questions still arise, whether they’re intended or not. Where will I live? How do I afford to move? Can I afford the legal costs? You’ll start questioning how you can tell your partner the relationship is over, when you’ve been “given” such a comfortable lifestyle. How do you negotiate with them, and where do you even

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THE DETAILS NE Family Law 0203 924 8462 / 01753 983 198 Oriel House, 26 The Quadrant, Richmond TW9 1DL 12 Castle Hill, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1DP ne-familylaw.co.uk

start. The worries about children blaming you, and how do you tell them. Furthermore, how do you support your children through this, all whilst still questioning who will support you and listen to you. All these questions and more can be overwhelming and consuming, but there are answers, and a path through the worry. It may not necessarily be easy, but that is why it is important to talk, and talk to the right people who can empower you with the answers you need. A team you can trust and have confidence in, so that you can plan your future. You’re not stupid, you just need to find the answers. So come and talk to us, we’re here to help. Contact: Emma and Nicki: 0203 924 8462 enquiries@ne-familylaw.co.uk

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ESTATE PLANNING ENSURING YOUR WILL PROTECTS YOUR FAMILY P reparing for your death or the possibility that you become mentally incapacitated can be a daunting concept, but there are many ways to protect your family and estate. Well written Wills ensure your family are both financially and emotionally protected. It’s important to understand and consider the key issues you should address when making or updating a Will:

No Will? It is a common misconception that you do not need to make a Will if you are married. Depending upon how your assets are held, those assets may not automatically pass to your surviving spouse and instead may pass in accordance with the Intestacy Rules. If you are unmarried and cohabiting, then the Intestacy Rules do not provide anything from your estate for your partner. A Will is necessary in affording your partner protection as well as safeguarding the inheritance for any future beneficiaries.

“A Will is necessary in affording your partner protection as well as safeguarding the inheritance for any future beneficiaries.” Will review Where you have a Will, it is vitally important to review your Will in line with changes to your circumstances, the value of your estate and legislation changes.

of up to £350,000 being restricted or eliminated. This can result in up to £140,000 worth of avoidable inheritance tax becoming liable.

Tax efficient Wills When considering inheritance tax mitigation, the preparation of tax efficient Wills should always be your first step. You can incorporate provisions within your Wills so to reduce your inheritance tax liability in many ways. Moreover, badly drawn Wills can create hidden and differing adverse tax implications for your beneficiaries. Having a correctly drawn Will is the cornerstone of inheritance tax planning.

Minor beneficiaries

Care fee mitigation & second marriages

2006 legislation introduced significant changes in respect of minor beneficiaries provided for within a Will. Different trusts now arise depending on the age contingency placed into your Will for minor beneficiaries. Depending upon the type of trust, the trust can produce unfavourable and ongoing inheritance tax, capital gains tax and income tax implications. Furthermore, an age contingency for a minor grandchild can result in an inheritance tax allowance

You may want to consider protecting your assets for future generations. For example, if you are in a second marriage and want to safeguard your assets for your children whilst simultaneously providing access to funds for your spouse to maintain their standard of living. Alternatively, you may want to protect your assets for your children against the potential care fees of your spouse. Moore Barlow can write your Will to protect assets for future generations and, at the same time, mitigate your inheritance tax position.

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If you would like to discuss any of the aforementioned issues, then please do contact us. Alexandra Milton Partner, Private wealth team alexandra.milton @moorebarlow.com 01483 748560 moorebarlow.com Disclaimer This information is for guidance and should not be regarded as a substitute for taking full legal advice.

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CHISWICK NURSING CENTRE Offers high quality rehabilitation, convalescence & respite care

estore your strength and health after an illness or operation by letting us take good care of you with individually tailored nursing care and our in-house physio, excellent chef and expert hairdresser. The Chiswick Nursing Centre’s physiotherapists work seamlessly with nursing staff to provide the highest levels of integrated care. As a part of the rehabilitation programme, the Centre’s qualified physiotherapists work closely with nursing staff to help patients achieve their goals. Highly experienced in the treatment and management of numerous conditions, the Centre’s physio team are experts in the field of rehabilitation. We support convalescence after surgery and to aid cancer recovery, including care of those with a range of other complex needs. We have particular expertise in rehabilitation following hip replacements and knee replacements. The physiotherapy sessions are tailored to help recover mobility and the physio team aims to provide early detection of any movement related problems. Through their treatment the Centre’s physios help patients and residents to regain their confidence and independence to promote an excellent quality of life through improved health and wellbeing. New for 2022 is Massage Therapy including Acupressure, Advanced Deep Tissue Massage, Seated Hot Bamboo Massage, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage all helping to escape the day-to-day stresses of life whilst you enjoy an

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hour long session with our trained and qualified therapist. Massage Therapy is available to residents and to outpatients, so book an appointment today. *Some treatments may be subject to Covid restrictions. A sister of a resident at the Chiswick Nursing Centre has seen the impact of care first-hand, she said, “ My sister (86) was admitted to this home during the virus crisis. The staff have been so caring and compassionate! She told us the carers were so kind and that the food was wonderful. The staff meet her every need and she feels that nothing is too much trouble for them. There are doctors, nurses and physiotherapists who help her daily.” Chiswick Nursing Centre offers high quality rehabilitation, convalescence, respite & nursing care. We also offer holiday stays for carers who need a break – with maximum peace of mind – so they can take time for themselves. Respite care should be a proper break for you. Short term or long term, we can take care of your loved one so that you can rest, recuperate and re-energise, or simply catch up on your to do list. With free parking on-site, the care home is a convenient location to be treated for a range of conditions including post-surgical rehabilitation and orthopaedic and musculosketal conditions. So, whether its physiotherapy, rehabilitation or convalescence, respite care, dementia care, longterm complex nursing care or general residential care, rest assured your loved one will be in safe hands at the Chiswick Nursing Centre. Please email enquiries@chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk or call 07568 106258. chiswicknursingcentre.co.uk

“The staff meet her every need and she feels that nothing is too much trouble for them. There are doctors, nurses and physiotherapists who help her daily”

PROPERTY

Luxury Living at The Vale

e believe that a home is more than just bricks and mortar. At The Vale, our collection of 30 luxury apartments available to purchase or rent, have been designed with you in mind, meaning you can enjoy your retirement, in a welcoming and vibrant community, without the worry of maintaining a property. All of our contemporary apartments are beautifully crafted to the highest standards. Lightfilled open-plan living spaces, luxury kitchens and beautiful bathrooms combine style and accessibility. Expect Porcelanosa kitchens with integrated Bosch appliances, built-in storage, underfloor heating, walk-in showers and Smart heating and lighting. Senior living can bring a change in pace and priority. We believe that The Vale enables you to live life to the fullest, safe in the knowledge that personalised care is available if required. Our aim has always been to combine convenience, security contemporary retirement living in south London and affordability with access to a comprehensive range of hospitality and care services. Knowing that support is available means you can embrace life with peace of mind. Our community of apartments means as much company and social life as you wish. With a view over the beautiful landscaped gardens, the Garden 84 JANUARY 2022

Bistro & Bar opens onto the terrace and is the perfect place to catch up with friends over a cappuccino. For a cosy place to read the papers or play cards, the library and lounge offer a comfortable, beautifully decorated environment. If pampering is what you’re after, our onsite hair and beauty salon and therapy suite offer treatments, manicures and massages. For film buffs our cinema room will be a popular option and if you want to learn a new craft, the hobbies room is the place to come. Nestled in a peaceful location a short distance from Streatham, The Vale is more than just a new home - it’s a future filled with opportunities.

“All of our contemporary apartments are beautifully crafted to the highest standard” Are you unsure about making the move to a retirement village? At the Vale, we offer a trial stay experience so you can gain a feel for what it’s like to be a resident at The Vale. Our trial stay experience is the perfect way to decide if retirement living is right for you, offering the opportunity to meet our friendly team and residents which form the heart of our community. We also offer virtual appointments via FaceTime so you can experience The Vale virtually and meet our friendly team. *Due to COVID restrictions, some services may not be available on your chosen trial dates thevaleliving.co.uk Tel: 08081 696511

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Hawes & Curtis

JERMYN STREET

Quintessentially Stylish

THE DETAILS For more information about Jermyn Street visit the website at jermynstreet.net twitter.com/JermynStShopper. facebook.com/JermynStreet

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ermyn Street is an air of elegance, class and distinction for which it has been very well known for over 300 years. Jermyn Street dates back to 1664 when Charles II authorised Henry Jermyn, the Earl of St Albans, to develop an area close to St James’ Palace. It has flourished ever since and holds a worldwide reputation for high quality British artistry and craftsmanship. The street is home to London’s finest men’s tailors, shirt makers, suppliers of leather goods, food and wine merchants, restaurants, hotels and art galleries. Historically, Jermyn Street’s shops outfitted the aristocracy at The Court of St James’s with bespoke shirt makers; tailors; boot makers; hatters: everything for the elegant gentleman. That tradition continues today with Jermyn Street known throughout the world for its prestigious shirt makers offering a wide range to suit every age and taste. Now ladies can also find exquisite clothing in many shops and, of course, there are numerous other shops punctuating the street selling jewellery; cigars; fine wine and food, especially cheese; perfume; fine art; objets d’art and tapestries, as well as outfitters, hatters and boot makers: in fact everything one would

expect of the street synonymous with British style, luxury and service. Over the years Jermyn Street’s distinguished residents have included the likes of Sir William Stanley; Sir John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough; Sir Isaac Newton; William Pitt; Sir Walter Scott; the poet Thomas Gray; William Gladstone; and W. M. Thackeray. Hawes & Curtis, Benson & Clegg, Church’s, Crockett & Jones, Dunhill, DAKS, Emmett, Favourbrook, Floris, Foster & Son, Hackett, Harvie & Hudson, John Lobb, Links of London, New & Lingwood, Paxton & Whitfield, Thomas Pink and Turnbull & Asser, welcome you to their prestigious stores. In its 300-year history Jermyn Street has always retained its distinctive character. This applies to the ambience of the street, the services it offers, and to the shops and businesses and the people who own and run them. Inevitably there have been changes in the architecture over the years, with the old houses converted into shops and some facades modernised. However, much of the original essence of Jermyn Street lingers on and it still provides a quintessentially British experience.

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LIFEUTD22 *Sign up before the 31st March 2022, and upon completion of your first booking you can redeem your hamper.

PROPERTY

away: it was a proper home for us – with a garden for Shadow and a locked shed for us to use for storage.”

uy to Let Hunter is a niche company offering investors a chance to purchase perfect small properties to rent on a short-term, serviced basis in the dormitory suburbs. But who, I hear you ask, chooses to stay in a tiny house in Binfield? One of our guests, Blair Baker, recently had a chat with us about her experience as a guest with Buy To Let Hunter. How did you come to be staying in one of our properties? “We sold our house in June, on the very day we put it up for market! We were relocating as a family to the States and for that to happen, my husband needed a visa. Due to Covid his application was delayed. We found ourselves in a total pickle – we were advised to stay in an Airbnb and wait. We had no idea it would be for six months!” How has the experience with BTLH been? “When we found your house in Binfield, we felt so grateful and blessed. We were actually blown

What would you say to other people in your position? “This has been a major life transition and you have given us the opportunity to have a home, showing us flexibility and genuine care, giving so much more than a roof over our heads: honestly, it has made all the difference! It provides the perfect stop gap for those who are stuck between life transitions, a true safe place for us to be in the midst of stress and turmoil.” Blair and her family are packing and hopeful to finally make the next step towards a new life together in Massachusetts with flights scheduled and a shiny new visa in hand. “We think we will leave next week – but now we have to take Covid tests, so everything is still somewhat up in the air… it’s like the most suspenseful storyline narrative ever, isn’t it! “Will they stay or will they go?”” In the nicest possible way, we hope Blair, Shadow and her family leave for good! The owner of Blair’s serviced and furnished home has been earning twice as much in rental, has the warm fuzzy feeling of providing a much-needed home and has a hassle free, flexible investment. If you would like to learn about our other guests or investors please do read the whole series of interviews on the website.

THE DETAILS Can BTLH help you find the perfect property? Get in touch and have a chat: 020 7550 9396 or hello@buytolethunter.com. For more information check out buytolethunter.com

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PROPERTY

Whyteleafe Grove F

ollowing a very successful launch before Christmas, over 25% of homes have been reserved at the latest impressive development of 3 and 4 bedroom family homes by Antler Homes; Whyteleafe Grove which is nestled in a leafy tree-lined avenue just over a mile from Caterham Town Centre. Homes have been finished in traditional materials with a variety of features and details; the result is an immediate sense of place and of quality. Spaces are generously proportioned providing room to grow meaning that homes at Whyteleafe Grove are perfect for families, while those who work from home will enjoy ample space for a dedicated office or study. This collection of beautiful new homes provides an exceptional specification with care and attention to detail taken throughout each home. Kitchens with bespoke shaker style units, composite stone worktops and integrated Siemens appliances are the hub of the home. Master and second bedrooms are complete with fitted wardrobes and en-suite bathrooms with white sanitaryware,

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Minoli tiling and underfloor heating. Outside rear gardens are turfed and front gardens are beautifully landscaped, complemented by Indian sandstone paths ready to welcome you home. Whyteleafe Grove is ideally placed to make the most of town and country living. There is a plethora of green open spaces and parkland right on your doorstep; with unspoiled woodland, common and chalk grasslands of the North Downs waiting to be explored. Whilst Caterham Town Centre just a 5 minute drive providing the perfect combination of a small and friendly local community and every amenity within easy reach including a shopping centre, eateries and supermarkets. Transport links are excellent with Caterham Train Station providing direct trains to London Bridge and Victoria in 34 minutes, with trains to Croydon in 16 minutes. Junction 6 of the M25 is three miles away offering easy access to Gatwick Airport and the motorway network. Families are spoiled for choice as there are a great selection of both state and independent schools nearby providing excellent primary and secondary education, as well as a fantastic further education offering for colleges and universities. The show home is open 7 days a week, 10am–5pm. Call today 02086 868741 or visit antlerhomes.co.uk.

“Whyteleafe Grove is ideally placed to make the most of town and country living. There is a plethora of green open spaces and parkland right on your doorstep; with unspoiled woodland, common and chalk grasslands”

PROPERTY

Historic Buildings Create Breath-taking Backdrop for Amenities at Royal Connaught Park

et within the former Dining Hall and Staff Room at Royal Connaught Park, a residential development that is part new build part sensitive restoration of the former Royal Masonic School for Boys, is a spectacular Health & Fitness Centre. Occupying the early 20th Century building is a gymnasium, spa facilities complete with a 20m heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna & steam rooms and a magnificent dining hall, which has retained its original flooring, stained windows and exposed wooden beams. The state-of-the-art gymnasium is situated within the former Headmaster’s and Teacher’s staff quarters, which features decommissioned fireplaces that bear original masonic symbols and engravings. The room was also made famous on the big screen, appearing in the 1957 feature film Lucky Jim as the headmaster’s (played by Ian Carmichael) office. The residents’ Dining Hall is one of the standout rooms across the entire development and once provided the dramatic backdrop for a number of Box Office movies, including the first three Harry Potter films. Stained glass windows and candle holder chandeliers suspended from a vaulted ceiling create a unique ambience that make it a special space for residents to hold parties and gatherings. Leading down a spiral stone staircase from the old Dining Hall is the elegant private swimming pool and spa complex with jacuzzi, sauna & steam rooms and changing facilities. The glass ceiling provides residents with the view of the restored

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dining hall ceiling as they swim or relax. First launched in 2010, Royal Connaught Park is now in its final phase, The Nova Collection, which is mix of two, three and four-bedroom newbuild apartments priced from £610,000 to £1.425 million. Two of the latest blocks released as part of The Nova Collection are Admiral House and Lancaster House, in addition to Yale House, Harvard House and Oxford House. Taking in uninterrupted views of the grounds and surrounding countryside, the apartments feature interiors proportioned and configured to meet modern lifestyle needs, with flexible spaces that can be freely arranged, whilst benefitting from private balconies or terraces.

THE DETAILS Prices at Royal Connaught Park start from £610,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. For further information on the last remaining homes for sale in The Nova Collection, please contact the sales office on Tel: 01923 222292 or Email: info@thecomergroup.com

6 bedroom en suite villa – north west coast Barbados, beach, pool, WiFi, personal chef and housekeeper included, A/C, alfresco dining, tranquillity www.seasymphonyvillas.com seasymphonyvillas@gmail.com Phone – 1 246 437 9342.

Chartsedge 01803 505115 info@chartsedge.co.uk www.chartsedge.co.uk

Nr Harberton, South Hams, South Devon Grade II listed detached property with 6/8 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms and 2 kitchens offering flexible accommodation. Located close to this glorious village it has attractive mature gardens. 5 miles to Totnes station. GUIDE PRICE £1,300,000

East Leigh, South Hams, Devon Large period 4/5 bedroom Barn Conversion with the benefit of a separate 2 bedroom annex. Amazing 40 ft vaulted living room and sun room with panoramic countryside views. 5 miles to Totnes station GUIDE PRICE £1,300,000

LUXURY

TRAVEL – Heading out of London to explore the rest of the world – I M A G E : B R N O, C Z E C H R E P U B L I C

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The other SOUTH OF FRANCE If you are planning your summer holidays and you are looking to go to the South of France, just remember it isn’t all about St Tropez, Nice and Cannes. BASQUE COAST

here are some absolutely stunning regions with fantastic beaches, beautiful scenery and everything else to cater for families, the golf enthusiast or the wine lover. You can discover a rich variety of places to visit, from chic resorts, sleepy old villages and astonishing historical monuments dating back to Roman times. It really is the perfect French holiday destination. In terms of the best time to visit the South of France, from May through to September you can usually guarantee good weather. June is usually very pleasant up in the late 70F’s/mid 20C’s. In July and August you can expect to get many days around 30C/90F. HERE ARE SOME IDEAS FOR YOU TO DISCOVER THE ALTERNATIVE SOUTH OF FRANCE...

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The Basque coast of south west France is a wellkept secret and a more authentic option than the Med coast. Chic Biarritz, charming St Jean de Luz and lovely seaside villages in between such as Bidart. It's where France meets Spain with large sandy bays, cuisine with a Spanish touch, and all overlooked by the dramatic Pyrenees. Whether you are surfing, exploring or eating out, it's distinctive & memorable.

HOSSEGOR The surfing capital of Europe but with so much more – a beautiful lagoon, excellent shopping & restaurants, cycle trails through the pine forests and stunning golf courses. Hossegor is hard to beat for active families and is the most popular resort on the Aquitaine coast. Outside the summer, it's a haven for surfers and golfers.

ARCACHON On the shores of the stunning Bay of Arcachon, a beautiful tidal lagoon and summer 'playground'. Chic boutiques, sailing clubs and restaurants sit alongside traditional oyster-fishermen's shacks. Child-friendly sandy beaches ideal for families and a 'must' visit is Dune du Pilat - Europe's biggest sand dune! A Parisien favourite, still a relatively undiscovered holiday destination by 'Brits'.

PYRENEES For a peaceful summer holiday alternative why not try the Pyrenees? A natural and dramatic

wilderness where mountains, lakes and forests combine to create a landscape which nature and wildlife enthusiasts will admire. There are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from including walking, mountain biking, rafting & canoeing, horse-riding. Pau is a genteel, gem of a city, and there are many market towns and villages to explore too.

BORDEAUX On the banks of the Garonne, Bordeaux boasts wide boulevards, majestic squares and elegant architecture and surrounded by ancient chateaux and vineyards that house some of the most valuable chateaux and vineyards in the world. Beyond Bordeaux is the Atlantic coast where you can sample some of the best seafood in France and explore the dunes of this beautiful coastline. With the Medoc to the north and famous St Emilion within an easy drive, this is a perfect destination for a gourmet break, a visit to carefully selected vineyards, or the perfect starting point to explore the magic of Dordogne.

TRAVEL

The United States is back! A

fter months of anticipation, transatlantic travel is back - so for those seeking an iconic city break, an outdoor adventure, a winter sun escape or an American road trip, here are five USA holidays to book now for when the U.S. reopens...

Great Rail Journeys, Atlanta, Georgia

PILGRIMAGE TO MUSIC MECCA, NASHVILLE, USA Nashville has welcomed its new National Museum of African American Music on Broadway. Since March 2020, Nashville has seen over 155 culinary offerings open their doors, while the restaurant, Audrey, by James Beard award-winning chef Sean Brock, arrives this autumn. Accommodation offerings have expanded with the arrival of the Gallatin boutique hotel, while 2022 will welcome luxury hotels including 1 Nashville, The Conrad and The Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences. ‘Next year will also mark key milestones for some of Nashville’s most iconic music venues, including Historic RCA Studio B which will celebrate its 65th year, where the likes of Elvis and Dolly Parton recorded some of their most famous hits, the Bluebird Cafe which has fostered the raw talent of countless songwriters and performers marks 40 years and the venue responsible for taking country music to the masses, the Ryman Auditorium, will commemorate its 130th anniversary. Bon Voyage is offering four nights at the 4* Holston House from £965 per person, on selected dates between 1-15 December 2021. Price includes return flights from London Heathrow to Nashville International Airport. For details visit bon-voyage.co.uk or call 0800 316 0194. For destination information visit: visitmusiccity.com San Francisco

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Holston House Hotel, Nashville

DISCOVER THE CAPITAL REGION ON AN AMERICAN ROAD TRIP ADVENTURE, USA Home to vibrant cities, vast areas of wilderness and beautiful landscapes, the U.S. is the perfect destination for a road trip adventure. Discover some of the east coast’s finest offerings such as the Shenandoah National Park which offers glorious scenery and an escape to nature; Charlottesville’s iconic arts and cultural scene; and the U.S. Botanic Gardens in Washington D.C., home to an exotic jungle and tropical rainforest. Traversing across Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia offer the perfect blend of American culture, heritage and the great outdoors for those hitting the open road and embark on a U.S. adventure.

“Home to vibrant cities, vast areas of wilderness and beautiful landscapes, the U.S. is the perfect destination for a road trip adventure”

The Scott Resort & Spa, Scottsdale, Arizona

America As You Like It is offering an 11-night Capital Region fly-drive which starts from £1,275 per person and is based on two travellers sharing, including return flights from London Heathrow to Washington D.C for departures in December 2021. For more information, or to book, visit americaasyoulikeit.com or call 0208 742 8299. For destination information visit: visittheusa.co.uk

TAKE A FOODIE TOUR IN SAN FRANCISCO, USA With more places to eat per capita than any other major city in the U.S, the diversity of San Francisco’s food-scene is incomparable. Explore the South of Market Area (SOMA) neighbourhood, an area synonymous with quirky street food trucks and unparalleled alfresco dining options. A must-visit for art and food lovers is Palette, an edgy immersive dining experience, boasting a wide variety of fresh, quality ingredients harvested by Bay Area purveyors and fishmongers along the California Coast. Virgin Holidays is offering a seven-night holiday to San Francisco, which starts from £1,367 per person and is based on two people sharing, it includes flights and room-only accommodation at Handlery Union Square, departing from London Heathrow to SFO on 20 March 2022, and returning on 27 March 2022. For further information, or to book, visit virginholidays.co.uk. For destination information visit: sftravel.com

“With 300 days of sunshine a year, the desert town of Scottsdale is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature again”

Sonoran Preserve. To unwind after exhilarating outdoor adventures, stay at The Scott Resort and Spa in Downtown Scottsdale, which offers guests indulgent scrubs and healing messages. Seven nights staying in a courtyard king guestroom, including direct flights with British Airways to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and fully inclusive compact car hire throughout the trip costs from £2,999 per person based on 1 December 2021 with Premier Holidays. For further information, or to book, visit premier holidays. co.uk, or call 08444 937 531. For destination information visit: experiencescottsdale.com

THE SOUTH BY TRAIN WITH GREAT RAIL JOURNEYS FROM £2,995PP: A 14-night musical journey courtesy of Great Rail Journeys based on two travellers sharing starts from £2,995 per person, with prices including return flights to Heathrow flying into Atlanta on 17 April 2022 and out of Houston on 30 April 2022. For more information, or to book, visit greatrail.com, or call 01904 521 936.

Washington DC

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES IN SCOTTSDALE ARIZONA, USA With 300 days of sunshine a year, the desert town of Scottsdale is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature again. Take a sunrise hike up the iconic Camelback Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the city; kayak or paddle board down the serene Lower Salt River or mountain bike across the McDowell JANUARY 2022 101

TRAVEL

European city breaks 2022 Lithuania, Kaunas, St Michael’s Church seen from the Zilinskas Art Gallery

Spilberk Castle and cityscape from Old Town Hall tower in Brno, Czech Republic.

From France to Slovenia, these urban spots are ripe for exploring. By Katie Wright.

ooking for 2022 travel inspiration? Time Out has revealed its top city break tips for Europe, highlighting places that are ready for a resurgence after tourism was largely put on hold during the pandemic. “For the past 18 months, travellers have largely explored closer to home, with trips to the countryside especially popular, but in 2022 we’re predicting that the city break will make a triumphant return,” says Time Out’s global editor-in-chief Caroline McGinn. The Luma fondation, made by the architect Frank Gehry, in Arles

Cosy winter weekends or sunny summer escapes, these cities are waiting to welcome you…

ARLES, FRANCE Synonymous with Vincent van Gogh, who painted one of his famous sunflowers series in the city, Arles is an art-lovers’ paradise. Located on the Rhone River in the South of France, the city is Provence’s Capital of Culture 2022 and will be hosting Les Rencontres de la Photographie festival, the Carrières des Lumières immersive art experience and a variety of exhibitions in the new LUMA arts district.

BRNO, CZECH REPUBLIC Overlooked by Spilberk Castle and the historic Cathedral of St Peter and Paul, the second largest city in the Czech Republic has undergone a modern revamp in recent years. In 2022, the Industrial Project will see several former manufacturing building reopening to the public, and notorious former prison Kaznice is being redeveloped.

Andersen Museum is the new jewel in Odense’s cultural crown, celebrating the life and works of the much-loved fairy-tale author. Denmark’s third-largest city, just 90 minutes by train from capital Copenhagen, is home to the Danish Railway Museum and in 2022 a new light railway will link the picturesque old town and newer neighbourhoods.

LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA Already a firm favourite with European city breakers, Ljubljana is worth a repeat visit in 2022, when it will host Velo-City, the annual World Cycling Summit, with free bike hire in the city centre. Culture vultures will find plenty to satisfy their appetites with the return of Festival Ljubljana after year off due to the pandemic, featuring dance, classical and opera concerts; street theatre festival Ana Desetnica starting at the end of June; and the annual jazz festival in July. Check out the full list on the Time Out website: timeout.com

KAUNAS, LITHUANIA Famous for its modernist architecture, Kaunas has been named European Capital of Culture 2022 and will play host to exhibitions from artists including Marina Abramović, Yoko Ono and William Kentridge. To discover the city’s many brilliant buildings, grab a Modernist’s Guide to Kaunas (free online or at the Tourist Information Centre) and head out on foot.

Odense Denmark Hans Christian Andersen Museum

ODENSE, DENMARK Opening in December, the Hans Christian 102 JANUARY 2022

Street from the Castle square in Ljubljana

TRAVEL

Travel in luxury with Belmond

elmond offers unforgettable travel experiences throughout the globe and has evolved its collection over the last 40 years to hold a well-established and diverse portfolio of market leading resorts and hotels, river cruises, safaris and luxury rail. For a romantic city hideaway, The Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, in Venice is an enchanting property that has welcomed glamorous guests from around the world since 1956. The grounds of the Casanova Gardens, named for the famed author, offers a quiet space to relax and reflect, while the complimentary shuttle to St Mark’s Square makes it the perfect base to explore the historic sights Venice has on offer. If luxury rail piques your interest, step on board the world’s most iconic train, the Venice SimplonOrient-Express, to be whisked back to an age of timeless nostalgia and glamour. Indulgence is taken to phenomenal heights, with the elegant dining exuding culinary sophistication, so sit back and be enticed by the flavours of Europe. Find romance, adventure and style within this luxury journey, meet other guests in the Champagne bar, or sit back and enjoy the scenery between London and Venice from the comfort of your suite. Rest assured the staff welcoming you ensure the Belmond experience is of the finest standard, with incomparable service and genuine care. Reid’s Palace in Madeira is paradise. Perched

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above the incredible Funchal Harbour this is the perfect backdrop to enable all guests to unwind. You can pamper in the tranquil spa, taking advantage of the kids club filled with activities for the little ones, or indulge at the exquisite Michelinstarred restaurant whilst staying amongst the ten acres of subtropical gardens. With such a variety of activities on offer to every guest, along with panoramic views from your private balcony and the renowned Belmond superb service, you’ll never want to leave… If, however, you prefer to use your hotel as more of a base, combine a private tour with the very best hotels so that you can relax in a luxurious environment after a day of exploration. The Hotel das Cataratas in Brazil boasts an unrivalled and unique location as the only hotel within the Iguassu National Park, offering exclusive access to the falls in the late afternoon or at dawn when the park is closed to other visitors. Over in Peru, the Sanctuary Lodge is just steps away from the entrance of Machu Picchu and in Colca Valley stands Las Casitas, an Andean retreat that offers outstanding views over the Colca Canyon and has Alpacas that roam freely around the grounds. Whether you’re looking for a luxury rail journey, an opulent city break, a tranquil cliff-top resort or to explore South America’s diversity, experience the outstanding hospitality with Belmond. trailfinders.com

“If luxury rail piques your interest, step on board the world’s most iconic train, the Venice Simplon-OrientExpress, to be whisked back to an age of timeless nostalgia and glamour. Indulgence is taken to phenomenal heights”

TRAVEL

London black cabs land at Dubai International Airport

Londoners in Dubai can enjoy a taste of home, away from home…

mitation is the best form of flattery whether it is copying buildings, monuments, or even entire cities to the point of mimicking the street lamps perfectly, China has done it all. Dubai though has its own subtle influences, when it comes to ‘Dupli’culture. They have managed to create and make waves with their architectural marvels, all on their own merit. The same can’t be said about the new taxi service being launched in Dubai - the new public transport fleet is inspired by the iconic taxis that

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have become an historic London treasure. The Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) is launching the ‘London Taxi’ service using hybrid (electricity and fuel) cabs. The new taxi is characterised by the semi-curved shape and signature black colour that mimics the iconic London Cab. In true London black cab style, the car is characterised by a roomy interior that offers riders six seats, some which face backwards. The driver sits in a separate cabin, with a small window to make payments. The design is well served to meet the needs of people with disabilities. The taxis are fitted with a satellite-based navigation system, voice command, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning software, in addition to a Wi-Fi network. In addition, a dual engine for better control of the vehicle under different climate conditions and an accelerated braking system and a battery that can be recharged in only 30 minutes. The service will be available at Dubai International Airport during a trial period. Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said, ‘ the new service comes as part of the RTA’s plans to improve the taxi service in Dubai further.’

“The new public transport fleet is inspired by the iconic taxis that have become an historic London treasure”

Val D’Orcia, Tuscany Stunning farmhouse. • Spectacular views • Infinity pool • Sleeps 8

www.villavaldorcia.com info@villavaldorcia.com

Art By Meeta Meeta specializes in Mixed Media, Oil and Acrylic on a variety of surfaces. Her artwork echoes “Expression from Extraction” reimagining the things around her everyday. She creates simple and playful images yet elaborate, at the same time using vibrant colors, overlapping textures and depth of layering. Through different combinations she brings the subject’s new life, exemplifies tactile textures and supercharges the senses for art lovers. She recently received mayor’s award of Bernards township, NJ USA for her work in art. Meeta art is exhibited and she takes on commissioned art from clients around the globe. Not only does she expand her skill with every stroke, she steers her clients, and students to indulge in the euphoria of art. With a Masters degree in business development, Meeta Garg originally followed her career in that discipline. However, her love for art set her on a different path. After completing a few art courses from Central Saint Martin College of Art and Design, London, she started her creative career in London and now works from her home studio in New Jersey, USA. www.artbymeeta.com www.instagram.com/artbymeeta/ Email : meetag0926@gmail.com

Amanda Horvath is a professional contemporary artist practising from her studio in the Peak District. Her outstanding paintings are a response to nature and capture the quiet tranquillity of the land and peaceful forest places, bringing the outside into the inside space. Having developed a unique style her paintings are beautiful, full of colour and life, lying somewhere between abstraction and realism. Her work has found homes with collectors worldwide. Amanda’s paintings can be found at leading galleries in the UK including Eclectic Gallery, London and the Wey Gallery, Surrey.

Commissions are welcome, please visit www.amandahorvath.co.uk Instagram: @amandahorvathfineart Email amandahorvath.art@gmail.com

ART GUIDE

– Stunning art from local, national and international artists – I M AG E : L O N D O N A RT FA I R

ART

BELLMANS AUCTIONEERS

Pictures and Prints | A Year in Review

s one of the UK’s leading regional auction houses, Bellmans holds specialist auctions as well as regular Home Interiors auctions, featuring sales of both Asian and European ceramics, silver, pictures and prints, jewellery, wristwatches and works of art. Each auction includes a wide range of remarkable items, with something to appeal to all, bringing an enticing variety of treasures, consigned from Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, London, the Home Counties and further afield. Bellmans’ Picture Department holds four regular annual specialist sales; two dedicated to Old Master, British & European Paintings, and two dedicated to Modern British & 20th Century Art. In addition to these specialist sales there are regular monthly Interiors Auctions with a varied selection of paintings and prints at a wide range of prices. 2021 has been a particularly exciting year for Bellmans, with the inclusion of its first dedicated Contemporary Art Sale in December, as well as collections from Hampshire artist, Laurie Norman and the surrealist, Gerald Moore. Highlights from 2021 included Nicolae Grigorescu (Romanian, 1838-1907), A woman at her bureau, which sold for £32,000* against an estimate of £20,000 - £30,000 and John Simpson (British,1782-1847), Self Portrait, selling for £7,500* against an estimate of £1,200 - £1,800. Other highlights included a Portrait of Louise Renee de Keroualle, Duchess 110 JANUARY 2022

of Portsmouth (1649-1734), with a Cupid, reaching the hammer price of £13,000*, Mary Fedden (British,1915-2012) A View of Summer, watercolour on paper, selling for £3,800* against an estimate of £2,000 - £3,000, whilst Maid of the Forth, from John Bellany (British,1942-2013) reached £7,500* against a £3,000 - £5,000 estimate. Bellmans’ specialists have a wealth of experience in the art world and are delighted to provide valuations and advice on all fine art, from a single painting, to a substantial collection or studio. Valuations take place both in the Sussex Saleroom and the Mayfair office, as well as ‘popup’ valuation days across the country. Preliminary estimates can also be provided online or a home visit can be arranged. Visit bellmans.co.uk to find out more, subscribe to regular auction alerts or to browse and bid in Bellmans’ next auctions online. *Subject to Buyers Premium @ 22% + vat bellmans.co.uk

“Bellmans’ Picture Department holds four regular annual specialist sales”

ART

TATE BRITAIN PRESENTS

HOGARTH & EUROPE

ew artists have defined an era as much as William Hogarth (1697-1764), whose vivid, satirical depictions of 18th century England continue to capture the imagination today. Tate Britain’s major exhibition Hogarth and Europe will present his work in a fresh light, seen for the first time alongside works by his continental contemporaries. It will explore the parallels and exchanges that crossed borders and the cosmopolitan character of Hogarth’s art. Hogarth’s best-known paintings and prints, such as Marriage A-la-Mode 1743, The Gate of Calais 1748 and Gin Lane 1751, will be shown alongside works by famed European artists, including Jean-Siméon Chardin in Paris, Pietro Longhi in Venice, and Cornelis Troost in Amsterdam. Together they will reveal how changes in society took art in new directions, both in Britain and abroad. Featuring over 60 of Hogarth’s works, brought together from private and public collections around Europe and North America, the exhibition will draw on decades of research to show Hogarth in all his complexity – whether as staunch patriot or sharp critic, bawdy satirist or canny businessman. It will also examine the

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Until 20 March 2022

“Tate Britain’s major exhibition Hogarth and Europe will present his work in a fresh light, seen for the first time alongside works by his continental contemporaries” Top Left: Giuseppe Maria Crespi, The Flea 1707 – 1709 Uffizi Gallery Top Right: William Hogarth, Marriage A-la-Mode: 2, The Tête à Tête, 1743-45 © The National Gallery, London Above: William Hogarth, Heads of Six of Hogarth’s Servants, c 1750-5 Tate

shifting status of artists in the 18th century, from workshop artisans and court painters to independent freelancers enjoying prominence alongside actors, musicians and writers It will also examine the shifting status of artists in the 18th century, from workshop artisans and court painters to independent freelancers enjoying prominence alongside actors, musicians and writers. The rapid expansion of urban centres like London, Paris, Amsterdam and Venice also saw the city itself become a major subject in art for the first time. Tate Britain will juxtapose these metropolitan scenes from across Europe, showing the bustling London streets of Hogarth’s Southwark Fair 1733 and The March of the Guards to Finchley 174950 together with vibrant depictions of Étienne Jeaurat’s Paris and Longhi’s Venice. Hogarth and Europe is curated by Alice Insley, Assistant Curator, Historic British Art and Martin Myrone, former Senior Curator, pre-1800 British Art, Tate Britain. It will be accompanied by a fully illustrated catalogue featuring new essays by eminent scholars and artists including Lubaina Himid and Sonia E Barrett. Tate Britain, Millbank, London SW1P 4RG tate.org.uk/visit/tate-britain

Diane Hol land SF Int ’l Art ist NY, LA, SF, London, Venice, Ba rcelona

Piazza del Campo, Siena

Taidg O Landscape Artist Kew, Surrey & Balcarrick Beach, Co. Fingal www.taidgomalley.com taidg05@gmail.com

In her a wa rd-winning Mona Lisa Va ria t ions #03, she l ibera tes t he iconic 16t h century Mona Lisa from her confinement, into a joyous, unique, modern portrai t. In col lect ions worldwide. S HOP: Prin ts, Po ste rs, Mu gs & m o re at www.dian e h o llan dart.co m & f o llo w at www.In stagram .co m /dian e h o llan dart/

ART

THE ART OF BANKSY World’s largest collection of original privately owned Banksy Art announces extension to May 2022

ue to overwhelming public demand, The Art of Banksy, is now booking to May 2022. Seen by over one million people worldwide, The Art of Banksy has now made its home in London, where over 90 authenticated Banksy pieces gathered from private collections across the globe are exhibited in a 12,000 sq. ft gallery.

THE DETAILS Please buy your ticket in advance. The box office is a cashless venue and can only accept debit & credit card payments. Location: 50 Earlham St, Covent Garden, WC2H 9LJ Follow @ArtBanksyLondon

Left: ‘Brace Yourself ’; ‘Grannies’

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Opening to critical acclaim in May 2021, the exhibition has quickly become a must-see addition to the London art scene. It features original and authenticated works from one of the most intriguing and talked-about artists in modern history, including prints, canvasses, screen prints, unique works and limited-edition pieces mainly dated between the years 1997 to 2008 - the period which resulted in Banksy’s most recognisable and well-known works. It includes iconic favourites such as ‘Girl with a Balloon’ and ‘Rude Copper’ alongside ‘Brace Yourself ’ a rarely seen public outing for the painting, mostly hidden away since its creation over a decade ago. The vast 245 x 182cm work one of the largest ever created by Banksy - takes centre stage in the exhibition. A new addition to the exhibition is the installation of six video screens showing exclusive interviews with Banksy’s former printer. A graffiti artist himself, he gives hilarious first-hand testimony of how the pair first came to work together, how they broke into zoos around the world to graffiti tag animal enclosures, and the time Banksy created a special Flag print to finance a Santa’s Ghetto exhibit in a former shoe shop on Oxford Street. No Banksy fan will want to miss this unique opportunity to hear first-hand amazing insights from one of the close collaborators of the notoriously anonymous artist. Also new are schools workshops and private tours conducted by London Blue Badge Tourist Guides who specialise in graffiti and street, available Monday to Wednesday from 6 pm. In true Banksy style, The Art of Banksy is not authorised or curated in collaboration with the elusive man himself. For more details and to book online visit artofbanksy.co.uk or call 08440 412001

Beautiful, tactile syntheses of print, paint and stitch from which emerge images to lift the heart and soul. She has work in private collections worldwide, including archives of the V&A and Scarborough Museums, UK. www.aesykes.art annetteelizabethsykes@gmail.com 07783 728019 01933 623706

Caroline Slater is a progressive and bold figurative artist with an editorial slant. Her diverse range of abstracted portraits and organic forms are influenced by avant-garde imagery, music trends and cultural identity. Caro’s dynamic oil/acrylic paintings and layered mixed media drawings are created to evoke emotion and respond to the world we live in. “I appreciate the intense presence of your characters. The fearless brush movement. The outstanding oeuvre” For Further information, visit www.carofineart. co.uk to view and purchase work on line or email carofineart@gmail.com to find out more. Follow @carofineart on Instagram.

ART

Wallace Chan TITANS:

A dialogue between materials, space and time One Canada Square, Canary Wharf. 14th February - 8th April 2022

hinese multidisciplinary artist Wallace Chan will showcase 10 of his large-scale titanium and iron sculptures for his exhibition TITAN at the vast lobby of the iconic One Canada Square, Canary Wharf. Canary Wharf is home to London’s largest collection of outdoor public art collected over 30 years with more than 75 freestanding and integrated architectural sculptures. It has a decadelong history of commissioning award winning art programmes and installation and is a long-standing celebration of culture and the arts. The exhibition, curated by James Putnam, explores Chan’s contemplation on the relationship between materials, space and time through titanium: a futuristic, space-age material. On display will be three brand new works: TITANS XIV, TITANS XV and TITANS XVI. The central motif of many of these majestic, semi-figurative sculptures is a colossal head whose facial features are serene yet strong, with a peaceful aura reminiscent of a deity statue. The head is often distorted and elongated, almost anamorphic, simultaneously ancient and somewhat extraterrestrial. One of the new works, TITANS XIV, is a 5 metre high monolithic sculpture and will be situated at the fountain in Cabot Square, in the foreground of Canary Wharf ’s iconic building alongside the work of renowned sculptors Henry Moore and Lynn Chadwick. Wallace Chan says, “The large-scale titanium sculptures come from a lifetime of memories

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and experiences, including my early years creating carvings and sculptures inspired by Greek mythology. TITANS, named after a group of super-strong giants, connects my present to my past. The series also acts as a passage to the future; carved and sculpted with a material as strong and resistant as titanium, my sculptures act as time capsules.” Wallace Chan is one of the world’s most celebrated jewellery artists, but his accomplishments in sculpture – an art form that he has been practicing for almost half a century – are less well known. Chan developed his skills and learnt the art of Western sculpture by visiting Christian cemeteries and admiring the marble sculptures of saints and angels.

THE DETAILS TITANS: A dialogue between materials, space and time Lobby, One Canada Square, London, E14 5AB 14th February – 8th April 2022 FREE to visit wallace-chan.com @wallacechanart

ART

CORNWALLS BEST KEPT ART SECRET COMES TO THE CAPITAL Tregony Gallery Presents…

Assemble*22 CORNWALL | LONDON British and International Contemporary Art. 8 - 20 February 2022 Sarah Spackman, The Last Nasturtium

an impressive roster of distinguished British and International contemporary artists. Based in the ancient village of Tregony, Cornwall, the gallery enjoys a fine reputation as both an established local landmark and a vibrant online space. Gallery owners Brian and Judi Green seek to celebrate distinctive observational painting and artists who possess something different in the way they see and interpret the world. The gallery’s distinctive program of exhibitions has presented outstanding work to visitors, collectors and media from all over the world. Finalist ‘Best Art Gallery in Cornwall, 2021’ and members of The World Of Interiors Index. Alex Cree, Apples on the Sculpture Stand

regony Gallery, one of Cornwall’s best independent galleries brings their distinctive style of curating to the Portobello Road. Assemble*22 will maintain the powerful creative bridge between Cornwall and the capital by introducing their impressive contemporary artists to a new audience and sharing their distinctive vision and approach to curating and collecting art. Assemble*22 curated by Brian and Judi Green, gathers a group of artists for whom appearances of the visual world is the touchstone of their practice, each with their own diverse perspectives and modes of expression. This collection will reveal distinctive approaches, structural compositions and deeply layered planes of colour and intense radiance drawn from a deeper well than simply the technical ability to reproduce and object, person or place. The gallery’s artists are divergent but share a common awareness, a sensitivity in their work that engages the viewer’s direct engagement with their subject and the intangible influences that led to its creation. Tregony Gallery is an artist-run gallery with

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THE DETAILS Assemble*22 CORNWALL | LONDON February 8 - 20 February 2022 230 Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London W11 1LJ Exhibition Monday - Friday 12 noon - 7pm Saturday 11am - 7pm Sunday 12 - 4 pm. Thursday 17 February 12 - 8 pm. For further information please contact Brian or Judi Green All the work and the catalogue is available to view on the gallery website tregonygallery.co.uk Email the gallery info@tregonygallery.com Or simply call +44(0)7496 953471

Andrew Wykes, Memorial Park

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Saatchi Gallery presents

BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE EXPERIENCE 2nd February 2022 – 18th April 2022 Image: Adrian Boot

Image: Murphy Hershman

THE DETAILS Walk-ins are welcome but prebooking is advised. Tickets can be booked in advance online ticketmaster.co.uk/ bob-marley-one-love-experience For more information, visit bobmarleyexp.com and follow @bobmarleyexperience on Instagram and Facebook.

he Marley family, in conjunction with Terrapin Station Entertainment, have announced that the Bob Marley: One Love Experience will make its global debut next month at London’s Saatchi Gallery for a limited ten-week exhibition before embarking on a multi-city tour. This unique experience will showcase unseen Marley photographs and memorabilia whilst immersing audiences on a journey through his lifestyle, passions, influences, and enduring legacy. Venture through the One Love Forest, visit the Soul Shakedown Studio and delve into the multisensory experience celebrating one of the world’s most beloved and unifying musical and cultural figures in this unique exhibition. Fans will venture through the exhibition, greeted by different elements of Bob Marley’s multi-faceted life, the One Love Music Room will commemorate Bob Marley’s achievements through accolades and giant art installations. A multi-sensory experience can be discovered in the One Love Forest, and at the heart of the exhibition fans will be able to honour and rejoice in Marley’s musical catalogue at the Soul Shakedown Studio – a live listening experience. The Beautiful Life area will allow fans to delve

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deeper into Marley’s other personal joys, from football to family whilst the Concrete Jungle and Fan Art Exhibition will be anchored by world famous artworks by Mr. Brainwash, as well as giving the chance for fans to submit their Marley and One Love inspired art to be included in the exhibit at the Saatchi Gallery. Audiences will then be able to discover The Next Gen Room celebrating Bob’s family and legacy through the next generation. Image: Adrian Boot

Join the discussion about the exhibition online at: #BOBMARLEYSAATCHI Instagram, Twitter, TikTok: @saatchi_gallery Facebook: @saatchigalleryofficial Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3 4RY The health and safety of visitors and staff is paramount. Safety measures for visitors can be found on the Saatchi Gallery website: saatchigallery.com/visit/ covid-19-compliance

Image: Adrian Boot

Website: www.curling-eriksson.com Instagram: victoriace_art

“FIELDS” Oils on canvas. 140cm x 105cm x 4cm

VICTORIA CURLING ERIKSSON

ART

London Art Fair 20 - 24 April 2022 Business Design Centre. London N1

he London Art Fair returns to the UK capital to launch the next international art calendar; presenting over 100 selected galleries celebrating the best in Modern and Contemporary Art to discover and buy. The Fair connects both seasoned and aspiring collectors with the best galleries from around the world, providing them with a unique opportunity to discover outstanding modern and contemporary art, from prints and editions to major works by internationally renowned artists from the 20th century to today. In addition to over 100 exhibiting galleries, the Fair returns with a number of highly regarded curated spaces: Platform: Each year the Fair’s curated section Platform, features invited galleries presenting well-known, overlooked and emerging artists whose work aligns to a single distinct theme. Curated by Candida Stevens, for 2022 Platform will explore the theme of Music and its part in contemporary visual art. Visual art and music share common cultural influences, including societal, political and technological. With contemporary craft and contemporary art increasingly occupying a shared space in both exhibitions and collections, Platform will look at the range of music inspired by visual art being made today. Photo 50: The Fair’s annual exhibition of contemporary photography, will be curated by

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art historian and curator Rodrigo Orrantia. No Place is an Island presents a selection of works by British and UK-based artists, interested in questioning the idea of an island and the associated concepts of isolation and isolationism. Echoing John Donne’s celebrated No Man is an Island, this exhibition examines what it means to be an island in the contemporary moment. As we slowly emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic to a post-Brexit Britain, the topical issues of our day (climate emergency, mass migration, travel and movement restrictions) confront us with the reality of an interconnected world. Art Projects: Returns for its 18th edition at the Fair to showcase the freshest contemporary art from across the globe. Pryle Behrman, art critic and member of the Art Projects Selection Committee, will once again return for 2022 to introduce this section, and as curator of The Screening Room, which is hosted as part of Art Projects as an accompanying programme of collaborative video and new media initiatives. The Fair’s extensive gallery line up showcases a diverse cross-section of art from emerging talent to established art world favourites; alongside an inspiring programme of curated talks, panel discussions and artists insights. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit londonartfair.co.uk

D AV E W H I T E A R T. C O M I N F O @ D AV E W H I T E A R T. C O M S O C I A L : @ D AV E W H I T E S T U D I O

Corrina Cooper is a Contemporary Pop Artist based in Wiltshire. Her practice documents ‘the everyday’; using geometric shapes to alter and examine still life & landscapes. The brightly coloured paintings are acrylic on canvas and encapsulate stained glass iterations & floral attributes that are routed within Art Deco & Pop Art influences. The painting here is called: Circumferential 2021 – Acrylic on Canvas 80 x 80 cm - £1100 Website - www.corrinacooper.co.uk Instagram - @corrinacooperart Email – contact@corrinacooper.co.uk

THE

WEDDING GUIDE

– Making the most of the great outdoors this summer – I M A G E : W E D D I N G S AT N E C K E R I S L A N D

WEDDINGS

[NEWS]

WEDDINGS GOING FOR GREY

BLUSHING BRIDE Any bride will look stunning with The Green Collection – a new fashion line, made in London, luxe quality and all vegan and completely sustainable. The first pieces to launch in this new range are six beautiful wedding dresses by Sabina Motasem. motasem.co.uk

PUT A RING ON IT Dress your table in style with these chic rose gold ring wedding place cards. A great way to ensure your guests are seated in the correct place. Why not attach a sprig of foliage or a selection of dried flowers, for the ultimate rustic look. gingerray.co.uk

PEACEFUL SLEEP A beautiful wedding gift. Using all-natural fibres of 100% British wool or cashmere guard hair, encased in organic cotton and made in Yorkshire. The Soft and Slim pillow comes with a discrete zip giving flexibility to add or remove wool as needed. avainnes.com 128 JANUARY 2022

Add a touch of casual elegance to your table settings with our Carmen soft washed pure linen dark grey napkins with Bride Embroidery. We source the finest grade, quality fabrics so you can be sure your napkins will last, making these napkins a thoughtful gift that will be used and enjoyed time and time again and add flair and style to your gatherings. thefinecottoncompany.com

SAYING THANKS Celebrate and thank your bridesmaids with this beautiful Bridesmaid Earring Gift Cards. On the earring card are the words: my bridesmaid, my best friend, thank you for all that you do. weddingsgifted.com

YOU ARE INVITED! Trinity House, the working home of the General Lighthouse Authority on Tower Hill, invites you to an exclusive viewing of the maritime venue on Thursday 28th April, 2022, from 4pm – 7pm Whether you are planning a quintessentially English wedding or other milestone social occasion, we are sure you will be enchanted with this hidden gem located behind the Tower of London and offering direct views of the historic landmark. A glass of champagne will be offered on arrival, followed by a guided tour of the premises including the two main licensed rooms, both offering views of the Tower overlooking Trinity Square Gardens. Trinity House allows for a capacity of 180 standing/130 seated. www.trinityhouse.co.uk/weddings-at-trinity-house-london

There is no charge to attend but booking a place is essential. Please respond by Monday 25th April if interested to attend to: Karen Luard: kp@kpcommunications.co.uk Facebook: @trinityhouse_uk • Twitter: @TrinityEvents

WEDDINGS

AS SERVED AT

Where Dreams Are Made… An elegant backdrop for every occasion. One of the most impressive and flexible wedding venues in the South East.

et hearts racing at Ascot Racecourse, an iconic Berkshire venue with a rich sense of heritage, elegance and romance to make your wedding day truly magical. Founded by Queen Anne in 1711, Ascot Racecourse remains a pillar of British sporting and social culture. A place made truly special and unique by the patronage of 12 monarchs over the course of more than 300 years, with Royal Ascot the pinnacle of the British sporting and social calendar. Renowned for its hospitality, fine dining and sense of style, Ascot is an inspirational setting for any occasion, especially a wedding where guests are given a special ‘bowler hat’ welcome as they sip chilled champagne or a refreshing Pimm’s on the lawns. Wedding packages can include a ceremony and reception, or alternatively you can hold your ceremony at another venue before continuing the celebrations at Ascot, where the creative Events Team and specialist caterers take pride in delivering outstanding and memorable experiences with a royally British welcome.

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accommodating everything from small family gatherings to large, lavish banquets. The various suites can be easily transformed to suit individual requirements, creating a blank canvas that can be fully personalised to suit any theme and style of décor. All spaces have natural daylight and views over elegantly manicured lawns, whilst the racecourse itself provides a perfect location for stunning wedding photography and filming. All wedding packages include a welcome from Ascot’s very own ‘Bowler Hats’, and the couple gets an invitation to celebrate their first anniversary at the racecourse on selected racedays.

SOMETHING TRULY WONDERFUL Set in 179 acres, with views over Berkshire and the Crown Estate, Ascot Racecourse can transform your personal vision of your perfect wedding into glorious reality with wedding suites that range from traditional to contemporary in terms of architecture, style and size. The realisation of the perfect day is all in the detail; those small yet expert touches that the right look and feel can provide. Ascot’s experienced wedding team work closely with specialist suppliers and experts to provide unique and tailored experiences brimming with elegance, heritage and romance. For something contemporary and striking, the ON 5 Suite is located on the fifth floor of the iconic Grandstand and is the perfect place to wow guests, with panoramic views over the race track from floor-to-ceiling windows and a sprawling balcony and private terrace. Situated opposite the Royal Box, the sophisticated Parade Ring Suite has beautiful interior floral finishes and a balcony overlooking the famous Parade Ring and provides a little bit of racing magic and splendour, whilst The Furlong Suite is an ideal summer venue (July to October), comprising a luxury trackside marquee with a large private terrace for leisurely drinks receptions in the sunshine. Perfect for larger numbers, The Pavilion Suite is a standalone building made up of three sections, which may be used individually or together, and overlooks its own beautiful Plaza Lawns and famous Ascot Bandstand. Easily reached by car or train from London, its airports and all major road networks, Ascot Racecourse really is one of the South East’s most impressive and flexible wedding venues,

THE DETAILS: For further information, simply visit ascot.co.uk/wedding-venue, and to discuss bespoke wedding options or request a personalised event proposal, please contact us on 0344 346 3611 or events@ascot.co.uk.

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WEDDINGS

Laura Green London M

odern British couturier Laura Green London produces bold, contemporary couture with a constant emphasis on femininity. The label has a private address book of highprofile women, including British royalty, businesswomen and actresses. For investitures, weddings, the races and sartorial elegance. Laura’s pieces are cut to perfection and lined in pure silk. Laura studied fashion design at the Arts institute in Bournemouth, before embarking on a full-time placement at US Vogue in New York. She worked with Grace Coddington, the Creative Director at the time. It was while at the magazine she fell in love with Parisian couture techniques. Laura’s enthusiasm for contemporary pieces led her to work for over 10 years under the helm at a famous British Couture house in London before launching her own label in 2018. Today, Laura continues her love for timeless pieces and ensuring women feel at their absolute best, whatever the occasion. The Collections are seasonal and include coats, dresses, suits and evening wear cut from the finest Italian and English wools, silks and cottons. The artisans at Laura Green are selected with the focus on their love for making beautiful

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“Laura’s enthusiasm for contemporary pieces led her to work for over 10 years under the helm at a famous British Couture house in London before launching her own label in 2018”

clothes. The team has a wealth of knowledge in couture and invaluable dedication to detail. The Laura Green London atelier is based in South-West London where they host private viewings of the ready to wear collections and bespoke commissions. Book an appointment by telephone on 020 4541 8440 or email info@lauragreenlondon.com

WEDDINGS AT WASING Exclusively yours, to bring the wedding of your dreams to life. The magnificent Castle Barn with seating for up to 140 is the ultimate space in which to celebrate wedding receptions in style. For your ceremony there is the choice of the picturesque parish Church of St. Nicholas, the idyllic Victorian Summerhouse perfect for outdoor weddings and the contemporary Garden Room with its walls of glass bifold doors allowing the outdoors in. There are twenty six luxurious rooms including the unique Grade II listed Granary sat proudly on its staddle stones, a fairy tale Dovecote, the Smithy and a Honeymoon Suite, with the biggest bed in Berkshire. WWW.WASING.CO.UK/WEDDINGS WASINGPARK@WEDDING-VENUES.CO.UK | 01189070199

Bibbione Castle is an Italian castle perfect for weddings. It offers an open gallery, a charming courtyard, and a panoramic terrace with unforgettable sunsets on the Chianti hills in Tuscany near Florence and Siena. The castle can be rented exclusively with all its 15 accommodations for your guests. www.castellodibibbione.com info@castellodibibbione.com +39 055 8249231

WEDDINGS

A brand new luxury wedding venue in Shropshire N estled in 8,500 acres of countryside on the Apley Estate near Bridgnorth, Stockton House is an idyllic wedding venue that will be opening in June 2022. And for couples who like their food and drink, this will be at the heart of what Stockton will become renown for. Built in 1702 as a Rectory to the church of St Chads just 100 yards down the lane, Stockton House has been a family home for over 300 years. Owned by the Apley Estate and steeped in history with a stylish Georgian design, Stockton House will be brought back to life with seven luxurious double bedrooms, 100-seater secret walled garden dining room and all expertly designed to take in the breathtaking views and scenery of Shropshire and the surrounding estate.

Created by award-winning wedding caterers This luxurious, boutique wedding venue is the exciting new project of award-winning wedding caterers Caviar & Chips in partnership with the Apley Estate. Co-founders Jonathan CarterMorris and Marc Hornby started plans with Lord Hamilton of Dalzell and the estate team back in 2018. They saw a great opportunity to bring the experience their guests were having through their bespoke catering and weave that through their own unique wedding venue. It starts with a purpose built 100-seater secret walled garden dining room. This beautiful open space will be licensed for civil ceremonies and host 136 JANUARY 2022

the wedding breakfast and evening party. With state of the art technology in lighting, sound and heating and with a full commercial kitchen this will feel like your very own restaurant. The building will have beautiful flowers climbing its four and half meter high walls and to guests will look like a secret garden - a design feature that was popular in the early 18th century. Open the grand, double doors and then you are transported into a large open space with double curved ceiling, chandeliers and open windows to the gardens and grounds at the back of the house. You can learn more about Stockton House and plans for the wedding venue by visiting stocktonhouseweddings.co.uk

“It starts with a purpose built 100-seater secret walled garden dining room”

WEDDINGS

Welcome Back Weddings: CELEBRATE IN STYLE

our wedding is your day to celebrate in style and that starts with your tablescape. We created some of our favourite wedding table looks, using products that are perfect for this special occasion. From a bright and bold tablescape incorporating eye-catching colours, to stylish and serene boho style settings. Our brand new silver plates add decedance to any theme whilst our glass candle holders bring a pop of romantic summer colour. With every colour scheme there is a napkin to match - the Born To Love range will certainly make the guests smile whilst the Boho Elephant napkin transports you off to a bright summer paradise. Whilst many of our products are disposable or recyclable at Talking Tables we have been busy creating more reusable and long lasting products that customers will love. Our new reusable fabric bunting and the Boho Cream Macrame Bunting are beautiful additions to wedding settings, and really make a statement of celebration! Talking Tables is a trusted global brand with twenty years industry expertise. Founded by Clare Harris, Talking Tables is built on the joy felt when planning, sharing and creating memories with friends and family around a table. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service, efficient supply chain and wealth of knowledge. We want to help you to party with a conscience! 138 JANUARY 2022

We are committed to sustainable practices such as removing plastic from our packaging and creating more reusable products. We develop our own products and work with like-minded suppliers to ensure planet-friendly procedures; from the materials we use, to the production process. In March 2021 we began our journey to B Corp certification. B Corp is a community of businesses that put their impact on their employees, customers and the planet at the forefront of everything they do. We are excited to continue to challenge ourselves and reduce the impact we have on the environment. talkingtables.co.uk/pages/wedding

“From a bright and bold tablescape incorporating eyecatching colours, to stylish and serene boho style settings”

WEDDINGS

THE NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW 2022 19-20 February at London Olympia 25-27 March at NEC Birmingham 9-10 April at London ExCeL

ith an anticipated 200,000 weddings due to take place in 2022, in addition to the 280,000 weddings that take place in the UK each year, figures suggest that we’re entering record years for the Weddings industry. Recent surveys by The National Wedding Show in partnership with Confetti* have revealed that 93% of couples have postponed their wedding to a later date, with 67% of those couples saying their wedding budget has not been impacted by the pandemic and 13% of couples saying the pandemic has meant they now have a bigger wedding budget than originally planned. The UK’s leading wedding event, The National Wedding Show will be going ahead this Spring at London Olympia, London ExCeL and NEC Birmingham. The National Wedding Show has established itself over the past 25 years as the ultimate destination for wedding planning, with thousands of couples visiting the shows every season. Featuring hundreds of wedding suppliers already confirmed, the Spring 2022 Shows will also continue to include a stunning Catwalk, a WEDTalk stage, the Inspired Bakes Gallery, and much more. The Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Show will run alongside the ExCel show, showcasing venues and services from beautiful locations all over the world. 140 JANUARY 2022

Cassandra Denman, Group Show Director says “We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to improve our visitor experience with exciting new features, to attract more wedding planning couples to the show than ever. The level of ticket sales we’ve seen in the past few months has been unprecedented. There’s a real buzz around the events this Spring and we can’t wait to be back, supporting the best suppliers the wedding industry has to offer as they get back on their feet after a challenging 2 years.” *Based on 5,353 responses collected through surveys run by The National Wedding Show in partnership with Confetti in February and August 2021. LIFE MAGAZINES READER OFFER Quote LIFEMAG and get standard tickets for only £16.50 and VIP tickets for only £30 For more details on all events, please visit nationalweddingshow.co.uk

MICHAEL GAGLIANO, BELLA LUCA PHOTOGRAPHY

901.979.45051

IVORY.OAK

Cesar Portes Photography truly believes your wedding day should be remembered as one of the best and happiest days of your life. They adore capturing moments and details as they happen, with a natural and organic approach combined with an exquisite editorial look. This results in spectacular, timeless pieces of art which make a breathtaking addition to your wall or wedding album. www.cesarportes.com Follow them on Instagram @cesarportesphoto

WEDDINGS

OVERSEAS WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS BY CONNOISSEUR TRAVEL

onnoisseur Travel have specialised in overseas weddings and honeymoons for over 22 years and are passionate about providing the highest quality service with the most luxurious locations. Their friendly and approachable team have extensive knowledge and expertise in this area of travel and pride themselves on providing a tailormade wedding or honeymoon in the worldwide destination of your choice, meeting all the requirements and desires you want for your once-ina-lifetime experience. They have clients who they arranged their honeymoons for returning back for holidays time and again. Connoisseur Travel’s honeymoon and wedding specialists take the time to get to know you, so your dreams really do become reality. You choose exactly where and what you want and they will plan every aspect of your wedding or honeymoon from start to end down to the minutest detail. They even have previous honeymoon clients returning for family holidays! Your idea of the perfect honeymoon might be sitting on a white sandy beach or incredible wildlife encounters, whatever your wishes, a honeymoon with Connoisseur Travel is right for you. If you are like most couples you will have gone to great lengths to plan and prepare for a perfect wedding, whether an intimate affair or a lavish event. Don’t forget your honeymoon – it is just as important and needs careful planning.

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“Choose exactly where and what you want and they will plan every aspect of your honeymoon”

Great honeymoons don’t just happen – they take careful planning. Pass on the task of arranging your special trip to Connoisseur Travel, specialists in providing tailor-made holidays and honeymoons worldwide. Their experts do all the hard work so you can relax and enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime trip. With Connoisseur Travel, you will experience a level of quality and service unmatched in the industry. They will work with you to plan the trip of a lifetime and fulfil your dreams. Everything is taken care of for you, throughout your entire journey. For more details visit connoisseurtravel.co.uk. Email info@connoisseurtravel.co.uk. Tel: 01403 272143. All travel is covered by fully bonded ABTA/ATOL tour operators

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WEDDINGS

A Necker Island Wedding…

ecker Island is one of the world’s most romantic spots for newlywed couples wanting the ultimate luxury for their honeymoon – picture yourselves together holding hands with your toes in the sand on the most luxurious island in the Caribbean! Sir Richard Branson’s private island may be his home and favourite hideaway, but he doesn’t mind sharing a slice of his paradise. He arrived on his island for his wedding clinging to the struts of a helicopter... now that’s making an entrance! Necker Island is one of the world’s most secluded spots for those wanting the ultimate luxury, in privacy. Perched at the island’s highest point, The Great House is where people come together, to dine, party or just relax. The house has a wraparound terrace with hammocks and sofas, and this being Necker Island, naturally you can expect a fully stocked bar. Up on the roof you’ll find a cosy hot tub – perfect for sipping champagne as you watch the sun set. Necker Island’s 74-acre estate has all

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the ingredients for a honeymoon of a lifetime. Guests can look forward to up to nine hours of sunshine a day with temperatures reaching up to 31°C between July and October. Right on the island’s main beach, the Beach House sits in between the island’s two tennis courts and the Caribbean Sea. With an impressive bar, space for games tables and an enormous 26foot sofa, the Beach House is the place for relaxed lunches and enjoying the sea breezes in between dips into the crystal clear waters. The Beach Pool has a freeform infinity pool complete with a swimup bar where guests can enjoy a drink. There’s also a huge hot tub right on the beach with space for more than 30 people. Turtle Beach is the perfect spot for relaxing….in a hammock of course, and for the more energetic there is always the sunken trampoline! You can take to the waters from the new Watersports Pavilion and have a go at anything from kitesurfing to paddle boarding, water skiing to kayaking and snorkelling. For a wedding or special occasion, Necker Island can host weddings for as many as 200 people. Exclusive use of Necker Island includes eleven bedrooms in The Great House and 13 individual Bali rooms and suites dotted around the island, easily accommodating up to 48 guests. There is also a bunkroom in The Great House that sleeps up to six children. For the newlyweds we recommend the Master Suite on the upper level of the Great House, complete with a private

Above: Duke Images

“The Beach House is the place for relaxed lunches and enjoying the sea breezes”

luxury personified outdoor hot tub and outdoor bath. Additional accommodation is available on newly launched, sister island, Moskito Island. After deciding to arrive by helicopter - the newest touch of extravagance on offer - there are many options to choose from for your reception. They can organise a six-course gala dinner or a more informal gathering on the beach with the sound of the waves breaking on the shoreline. The Beach Pool Pavilion alongside Main Beach has a hot tub for up to 30 guests, so the party is sure to continue late into the night! They can also help you with all the trimmings, from hair stylists and flowers to entertainment and fireworks – the sky really is the limit! Necker Island is used to ‘unusual’ requests, and because every wedding is by definition unique and personal, they will tailor each request especially for the Bride and Groom. This is your chance to let your inspiration run riot, as they delight in pulling off the seemingly impossible! Necker Island’s hyper-personalised wedding and honeymoon packages are all tailor-made to the individual and can include any of the following: • Personal assistance in obtaining your marriage license and all the associated fees and transportation of the local pastor to the island • All the ceremony arrangements in your preferred location including decorations based on beach, garden or formal theme • Spectacular wedding meal in your preferred location • Selection of canapés after the ceremony • Pressing and steaming of all resident guest outfits prior to the ceremony • An extra special turndown service on the wedding night for the bride and groom, including a bottle of Dom Pérignon champagne and breakfast in your room the following • Bouquet of 24 white roses for the bride and a boutonnière for the groom • 3-tier wedding cake prepared by the Necker Island chefs • Five-hour photography package • Case of Dom Pérignon to be served after the wedding ceremony • Steel band at the ceremony playing as the bride walks down the aisle

Duke Images

THE DETAILS To discuss dates and general wedding plans, please contact its reservations team on 0800 716 919 (UK toll free) or +44 (0) 208 600 0430. Alternatively visit virginlimitededition.com for more details or email enquiries@virginlimited edition.com

• 90-minute couples massage for the bride and groom and a 30-minute bespoke skin polish The above are all individual wedding supplements, applicable on the day of the wedding and added to the nightly accommodation rate. For exclusive use of Necker Island rates are $128,000 per night. For smaller groups Necker Island can be booked and shared on a non-exclusive basis with other guests from July to October. Please note a minimum of 10 rooms are required. Rates start from US $5150 per room, per night.

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WEDDINGS

Seclusion and grandeur

iscover a place where serenity and celebration await. Where rich history meets modern luxury. Where forever memories are created and everything you could wish for is all in one breathtaking setting. This is Braxted Park. Enter the 500-acre rolling estate, down the treelined drive and you’ll find our magnificent country house and its walled garden. Peaceful, picturesque and private, couples have complete exclusivity of this stunning location when they celebrate their special day here. You’ll feel miles away from anywhere, but in reality, this haven of tranquility is within easy reach from all over Essex and close to Chelmsford, Colchester and Braintree. It’s just an hour from London too, so ideal for those looking for an escape to the country. We pride ourself on offering everything all in one place and a setting like nowhere else in Essex to enjoy it all. Start the day in the Bridal Changing Room, a private, light-filled space to prepare and spend quality time with your loved ones. Then have your choice of ceremony locations, from the opulence of the Orangery to an al fresco wedding in the sun-kissed Knott Garden, or even the characterful parish church which lies within the grounds. The gardens and estate are awash with enchanting places to celebrate and explore, perfect for a drinks reception and capturing those unforgettable moments. When it’s time for revelry, the contemporary Pavilion has everything for a wedding breakfast and reception to remember.

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And at the end of the night, the Garden Cottage provides the ideal retreat for you to unwind and reflect on the events of the day, with plenty more guest accommodation for loved ones too. They say that your wedding breakfast is the most memorable meal of your life, and our in-house team of award-winning chefs guarantee that is the case for all the right reasons. Couples have the opportunity to create their menu personally with our chefs, ensuring that the food and drink on your wedding is as individual as you are. With a strong focus on seasonal produce and using the best that the local area has to offer, you can be sure of the finest food and drink from start to finish. Braxted Park has been a family home for generations and we are ready to welcome all our couples into the family. That same personal approach is present in everything we do, and right from the first visit, our friendly team are there to help you picture your wedding day here and support you every step of the way to ensure that dream becomes a reality. This impressive estate is not only the finest wedding venue around but also offers plenty more to discover. A private lake is found just a few steps from the house, surrounded by lush parkland. Our golf course lies to the north of the estate, ideal for the wedding party to spend some extra time together. We offer our renowned cookery school with our talented chefs, a great way for couples or guests to learn how to recreate that all-important wedding breakfast. We also provide stunning locations for corporate events and al fresco dining in our atmospheric woodlands, so there are lots of ways to enjoy Braxted Park before and after the wedding. With a select few key dates available, Braxted Park could still be exclusively yours in 2022. Visit braxtedparkweddings.co.uk or call us on 01621 770855 to find your perfect wedding date at Braxted Park.

TILLY &

JASPER

Beautiful organic children’s clothing to make you smile Helping to provide some much needed cheer, we offer an ever-evolving range of bright, bold and beautiful organic children’s clothing from newborns up to 8 years.

Discover one of the largest collections of organic children’s clothing brands in one place, including: Toby Tiger, Frugi, Pigeon Organics, Little Green Radicals, Maxomorra, Kite Clothing, Piccalilly and more. Organic Cotton isn’t just softer — it’s better. We believe that offering 100% organic materials across our range provides customers with a far higher-quality product. Visit tillyandjasper.co.uk and enjoy fast, free UK shipping on all orders.

INDEPENDENT

SCHOOLS GUIDE – The finest independent schools in the UK – I M AG E : M O R E H O U S E S C H O O L

EDUC ATION

Music at Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School

hat should a 21st century musical education look like? Planning for the opening of Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School, an independent school for boys and girls in the heart of Kensington, gave a unique opportunity to blend tradition with some of the best current trends in education. The school ethos, ‘Prepared for everything’, really does sum up what a preparatory school education should be about. Whilst they give children the strongest possible grounding in their core subjects, preparatory education should also be a ‘shop window’ of the many other facets of school life that pupils will encounter when they move onto Senior School. All too often piano lessons can be seen as a quick fix in order to list a musical instrument as part of a child’s application to Senior School. But, does this really set them up to thrive when they move into the next stage of their education? Visit any of the great public schools and you will see (and hear) music as a communal activity. Whether that is a rousing hymn performed at morning chapel or the uplifting sounds of the school orchestra, music, and more specifically group music-making, is a cornerstone of our country’s finest schools. To prepare young learners to flourish in this world, the school has developed an exciting music curriculum that places instrument learning and singing at the heart of the classroom journey. The youngest learners are introduced to chime bars and the ukulele. From there, pupils progress through a two-year violin curriculum, setting 158 JANUARY 2022

THE DETAILS To learn more about Prince’s Gardens visit princesgardensprep.co.uk or email admissions@ princesgardensprep.co.uk.

them up for future study on string instruments such as the cello or guitar and a two-year recorder curriculum, covering the fundamentals of playing wind instruments. These foundations are then developed in Years 5 and 6, where children spend a year learning the saxophone and the trumpet. An important part of the Prince’s Gardens experience is making the most of their proximity to some of London’s most prestigious institutions. The nearby world-famous Royal College of Music means their pupils benefit from their developing links with this prestigious institution. All of the visiting music tutors are recent RCM graduates. Not only do they bring their expertise in teaching, but they are also exciting players forging their professional careers and pupils have regular opportunities to hear inspirational performances from these accomplished musicians. An exciting new development for the school is the launch of the Scholarship programme which includes a music scholarship. This is available to children keen to join the school in Years 4 or 5 who show excellent potential and commitment in music.

EDUC ATION

Fostering a love of learning from the very start at Queen Ethelburga’s

pplying for a child’s primary school place is one of the biggest decisions parents have to make for their children, laying the foundation stone for their journey into formal education and a love of learning for years to come. Nestled in the North Yorkshire countryside on the outskirts of York, Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE) welcomes children from as young as 3 months into its Kindergarten, and all the way through until 19 years old. Chapter House is one of four schools within the Collegiate and is home to QE’s Early Years, infant and junior provision. It is a vibrant and engaging school with a warm, family atmosphere. As part of QE’s unique four school model, children stay in Chapter House until Year 5, when they make the transition to QE’s Middle School King’s Magna in Year 6. In February 2019, the Independent Schools Inspectorate judged the Chapter House Early Years provision as ‘Outstanding’ across all areas, praising the ‘excellent care and learning

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experiences that the setting provides’. Chapter House has also achieved the Primary Science Quality Mark Gilt, the Quality Mark for its Early Years provision and the Quality Mark for Primary Provision. Chapter House offers a purpose-built, friendly setting, with the opportunity of free flow from room to room. This ensures children are familiar with all staff and environments easing the transition as the children grow. All the mealtimes take place in a dedicated Early Years dining room, specifically provided for by a dedicated EYFS chef which enables catering for all nutritional requirements in a safe, homely atmosphere. Children leave Chapter House and move into King’s Magna, QE’s middle school, as independent and happy learners with a strong grounding in key subjects and ready for the exciting challenges ahead of them. Find out more about why QE could be the school for your child, visit qe.org and book onto our next Open Day on Saturday 29 January. To find out more visit qe.org for more information

“Chapter House offers a purpose-built, friendly setting, with the opportunity of free flow from room to room”

EDUC ATION

BEING OF SERVICE helping young people to help themselves Faith Hagerty, Head of More House School in Knightsbridge, explores the importance of service as a way of helping young people to manage the impact of the pandemic and break free from the ‘selfie’.

s we know and watch with increasing caution, young people today are faced with countless opportunities to focus on the self. Whilst we must equip our young people with the tools to live in harmony with evolving technologies, the language around social media, be it Facebook, Snapchat or the simple ‘selfie’ highlights the growing culture of image obsession being dutifully fed by the available tech and apps that offer immediate gratification. Throw in a pandemic and what do we end up with? A generation of young people for whom the self has become almost all there is, apart from the faces in boxes on their screen and their families doing the same thing in another room. Faith states “With the careful return to school last Spring, we watched pupils balance the relief of being back in school with the urge to retreat to the safety of their bedrooms, institutionalised behind their desks and masks.” It is no surprise that many schools are now managing behavioural issues with different year groups, as young people find a way to navigate this prolonged period of uncertainty and disruption, with boundaries blurred and social norms no longer instinctive. 162 JANUARY 2022

“At More House, opportunities for service are plentiful, and this work can be transformative.” Faith explains, “It is in our very nature to want to help others, and schools can act as facilitators in this regard to counteract the powerful draw of devices and give young people a compelling reason to put their phones down.” As well as running the popular Duke of Edinburgh Award, More House also facilitates a Faith in Action group who take the lead on numerous initiatives pioneered and implemented by pupils. Once approved, students learn key skills in bringing projects to fruition, managing obstacles along the way, then seeing the tangible impact on those less fortunate than themselves. A recent initiative involved writing letters to care home residents who had been particularly isolated during the pandemic. Faith was particularly moved by this project, “it was an example of kindness in its purest form”. Faith concludes; “As we learn to accept that adaptability in every aspect of our lives is now a most vital skill, we may also find that projects involving service to others could help to plug the gap that mental health services cannot possibly fill in helping this generation of young people”.

THE DETAILS For more information about More House School, please contact registrar@morehousemail.org.uk or visit morehouse.org.uk

EDUC ATION

SELF-AWARENESS

EATON HOUSE SCHOOLS LEARNING TO LEARN Children are relentless in their urge to understand, learn and master almost any new activity that they encounter. This need for understanding is so powerfully stitched into their experiences that some scientists describe it as a drive. As a school we believe it is our role to be guides for children as they strive to understand, equipping them with the correct tools so that they can learn in the most efficient and lasting manner. There are many important tools of Learning to Learn, three of the most significant are: fostering curiosity, selfawareness and aspiration.

FOSTERING CURIOSITY Fostering curiosity is important throughout a child’s time in school but particularly in the early years. Schools aim to introduce new experiences to children in a way that sparks their imagination and instills in them a desire to know more. Often this is achieved by incorporating an element of play into the learning which ensures engagement as well as developing a wealth of other skills such as communication, collaboration, problem solving and imagination. 164 JANUARY 2022

All children are different and as such learn in a variety of ways, be that spatial, kinesthetic, logical, social or verbal. It is important for children and their teachers to understand in what way they learn; this will enable them to grasp new concepts more quickly and master them more easily. Therefore, giving children a greater confidence in their abilities and inspiring them to be more receptive in undertaking new learning adventures.

ASPIRATION Aspiration in achieving goals is key to learning, whether that be long term or short-term goals. Much of encouraging aspiration is achieved environmentally by developing an atmosphere in which children can dream big and feel capable that they can achieve these dreams. Key to developing this environment is being surrounded by teachers who positively reinforce good learning habits and by other learners who are keen to excel. As educators and parents, we see time and again that when key elements of learning like this are successfully combined, the sky is really the limit for our children. Luchie Cawood, Principal, Eaton House Group of Schools Admissions - 020 3917 5050

EDUC ATION

VALUES AT THE HEART OF EDUCATION

or millions of people around the world the pandemic has borne a spiral of anxiety and an apathy that has had mental health professionals appealing for urgent action to be taken and conjecturing about whether people, young and old, will ever fully recover from the effects of locking down their lives. The current climate of caution breeds

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apprehension and unease where previously we traded in fearlessness and adventure but because of these societal changes, an education built on character and Values is more relevant and impactful than ever. At Dulwich Prep London, eight school Values of ‘Love’, ‘Honesty’, ‘Courage’, ‘Justice’, ‘Selfdiscipline’, ‘Humility’, ‘Service’ and ‘Gratitude’ were introduced a few years ago, adopting the original characteristics identified by the Jubilee Centre for Character and Values: ‘a pioneering interdisciplinary research centre focusing on character, virtues and values in the interest of human flourishing’ because that is exactly what Dulwich Prep wanted – for their pupils to flourish. Dulwich Prep embedded Values into the infrastructure of the school, weaving the language and principles into policy and practice. They understood the need for a holistic approach to education and wanted to prepare their pupils to meet the challenges of living, as well as academics. Rare is the investment which has paid such

“The current climate of caution breeds apprehension and unease where previously we traded in fearlessness and adventure but because of these societal changes, an education built on character and Values is more relevant and impactful than ever”

dividends. Six years of focusing on being kind, telling the truth, helping others, saying ‘thank you’, playing fair, being brave, joining in, listening, and being organised, provided pupils with the ability to demonstrate remarkable resilience, humbling generosity of spirit and heart-warming optimism when faced with unprecedented restrictions in their young lives. Committing to a life of principle is never the easy choice; the complicated cocktail of youthful innocence and childish self-centeredness, spiced with a dash of naive impulsivity makes it a daily challenge for some, but by embracing that challenge, Dulwich Prep pupils embody hope and tenacity in a spirit of unity and friendship. September 2021 heralded an emotional return to school for many, as the doors opened once more to welcome families back on site. At Dulwich Prep London, staff and pupils delighted at the opportunity to join together in Assemblies, swelling numbers attended choir practice and children ran with unfettered joy towards the luxury of free play. These fundamental elements of a child’s education which had previously, understandably, been taken for granted, suddenly became incredibly precious. Perhaps this generation of children, far from being lost, will be the winners, the game changers whose understanding of ‘Gratitude’ is not measured in likes, possessions or financial gain; a renewed sense of magic surrounds life at the Prep, and their Values lie at the heart of it. Dulwich Prep London’s whole staff, strategic focus for the academic year 2021-22 is their Values. With so much time spent in and out of school, separated from each other, fragmented, and

“Perhaps this generation of children, far from being lost, will be the winners, the game changers”

disconnected, the Prep want to remind their pupils and their families of exactly what they stand for and what it is that unites their community: ‘Love’, ‘Courage’, ‘Gratitude’, ‘Humility’, ‘Justice’, ‘Service’, ’Self-discipline, and ‘Honesty’. It is Dulwich Prep’s belief that, if their children can live by these guiding principles: knowing how to be kind and offer help where it is needed; to play fair and tell the truth no matter who is listening; to join in and play their part whilst letting others be heard; to appreciate the world around them and how valuable their contribution is; then we believe they will thrive wherever life’s journey takes them, and they will be the success stories of the future. Admissions email: admissions@dulwichpreplondon.org Telephone: 0208 766 5525 dulwichpreplondon.org

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Fulham 020 7386 0006 or Shepherds Bush 020 8749 2877 or Hampton 0208 941 7666

EDUC ATION

Herne Hill School strengthens its ECE focus and expertise A t the top of Herne Hill, a mere three-minute walk away from its main site, Herne Hill School recently opened a dedicated Kindergarten for 2- and 3-year-old children (girls and boys). The stately Victorian mansion has been completely refurbished to the highest standard to create a warm, welcoming ‘home from home’ environment. The site, which is highly conducive to stimulating the children’s creativity and maximising their learning, has met with strong approval from parents, with some comparing it to a “Soho House for children”. It enables Herne Hill School to consolidate its position as cutting-edge experts in Early Childhood Education, the period research has unequivocally established as the most formative in a child’s life and requiring a specialist pedagogical approach.

Focus and expertise “Since our foundation in 1976, we have focused exclusively on educating young children from Kindergarten (2+) to Year 2 (7+)”, says Ngaire Telford, who is only the third Headteacher in the school’s history. “Thanks to this cumulative experience and by thoughtfully integrating best

practices from other successful ECE programmes such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Forest School and Te Whāriki from my native New Zealand, we have developed a unique, continuous five-year curriculum which we believe goes way beyond the statutory requirements of the English EYFS and Key Stage 1 national curriculum”, she adds. Herne Hill School benefits from being just

Ngaire Telford, Headteacher

“We have developed a unique, continuous five-year curriculum which we believe goes way beyond the statutory requirements of the English EYFS and Key Stage 1 national curriculum”

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the right size for its focused five-year provision. On the one hand, being the largest stand-alone independent school in the country specialising in this age range affords it the scale required for employing a critical mass of expert early years educators and state-of-the-art facilities and resources. On the other hand, it is sufficiently small to enjoy a warm and friendly family community atmosphere in which the children benefit from deep relationships with these loving, caring and expert staff.

Strong ethos and high-quality staff are key Asked about what she believes to be the greatest success factors for cutting-edge ECE provision, Mrs Telford spontaneously replies “ethos and staff ”. She explains: “A strong and purposeful ethos can provide an all-encompassing cultural umbrella for everyone’s behaviours at the school. Our own ethos of ‘Love · Care · Excellence’ encapsulates our commitment to excellence and conviction that love and care are prerequisites for optimising a young child’s learning trajectory. But ultimately, having amazing staff is even more

“Early Childhood Education is the period research has unequivocally established as the most formative in a child’s life and requiring a specialist pedagogical approach”

important as it is they who develop the supportive relationships required to guide young children, day-in day-out, on their crucial ‘whole child’ development journey.” Following their successful start in the Kindergarten, on a term-time basis with full-day provision two to five days per week, the Herne Hill School children are gradually introduced to the school’s main site and its extensive woodland area to enable a smooth progression through the five-year continuous curriculum. They then move on to their next schools at a natural Year 3 entry point - with a spark in their eyes and equipped with a comprehensive set of life skills to seize the opportunities and surmount the challenges they will face in their futures.

New website just launched Herne Hill School have just launched their new website, which contains a wealth of information on what cutting-edge ECE looks like. hernehillschool.co.uk

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EDUC ATION

SYDENHAM HIGH SCHOOL: 135 years of first-class education

22.02.2022 - a date for reflection and looking ahead for Sydenham High School as it celebrates 135 years of the first-class education delivered to pupils since 22 February 1887. Founders of the school, Maria Grey, Mary Gurney, Emily Shirreff and Lady Stanley of Alderley championed the unfashionable cause of education for women, overcoming considerable opposition on the grounds of religion, social status and gender, as well as lack of funding that boys’ public schools were afforded at the time. Their aims were to provide an academic grounding, first-class teaching and an environment that developed character and personality and they are shining examples of the values of courage, resilience and determination that the school is built upon. The school motto of “fear nothing” aptly emboldens pupils as they forge their own path through life, stepping outside their comfort zones, developing independence of mind, the courage to take risks and the ability and awareness to stand up for what is right. History shows the school’s ability to overcome adversity, from the evacuation to Brighton during The Second World War to the 174 JANUARY 2022

“The school motto of “fear nothing” aptly emboldens pupils as they forge their own path through life, stepping outside their comfort zones, developing independence of mind, the courage to take risks and the ability and awareness to stand up for what is right”

fire in 1997 which gutted the Victorian heart of the school. The spirit of perseverance endured the coronavirus pandemic with staff adapting seamlessly to the necessary hybrid learning. The school’s inclusive nature provides a broad and balanced curriculum with a solid foundation of pastoral care, putting the wellbeing of its entire community at the forefront, with parents regularly sharing positive praise: “I’d like to send an expression of gratitude for all that you are doing for our daughters. It means so much to know that you are backing them every step of the way. If nothing else, this generation is truly learning to fear nothing and identifying how adaptable humans can be.” In recent years, the school has grown in size and so has the dedication to the objectives laid out 135 years earlier, allowing pupils to reach their potential whatever their starting point. Alumnae become climate change consultants, doctors, authors, scientists, artists, Grammy Award-winning musicians and even a horse-racing icon! Ready to call out inequality or injustice in whatever form it may present itself, pupils have a strong moral compass, leading the way on many social issues, while being accepting and respectful of themselves and others. Whilst celebrating 135 years of dedication to educating girls, Sydenham High is empowered to forge its own path, creating a new history for 135 more. sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

FASHION

& BEAUTY – Fashion and beauty news to keep you looking your best – I M A G E : T H E N E W G L O S S I E R S TO R E I N C O V E N T G A R D E N

FASHION & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

FASHION & BEAUTY HOUND DOG This gorgeous pair of terracotta hound dog socks feature a warm terracotta base with a fun hound pattern. The heel, toe and rib are a navy blue colour. countrymouse.co.uk

CLASSIC STYLE

LOUNGING AROUND Marianne North was a remarkable Victorian artist and botanist who travelled the world, breaking conventions and discovering new species of fauna and flora. This gown is perfect as a luxurious house coat or for layering as a chic accessory to your favourite outfit. onehundredstars.co.uk

These mules are perfect for wearing while you pad to the kitchen to make your morning brew or while you tend to little ones with the inevitable midnight wake-ups. Your feet will feel snug and spoilt, thanks to wool’s temperature regulating superpowers. soakandsleep.com

MAKE A STATEMENT Introducing this bold and beautiful matching earrings and choker set. With an antique gold base and clear rhinestones, the unique design was made to stand out. This set is perfect for ‘date night’ or a special event. nikitabyniki.com

SILVER BEAUTY Frida Kahlo is immortalised in Sterling Silver. Steeped in immense strength, power and beauty this necklace is the perfect choice for the strong person in your life. licensedtocharm.com 180 JANUARY 2022

WE LOVE These limited edition Black Spinel Cufflinks, in 18ct Rose Gold Vermeil. tsaixtsai.com

Roma Collection cameoandbeyond.com | farfetch.com

FASHION & BEAUTY

FORTUNY

he time-transcending quality of Mariano Fortuny’s work in the early part of the twentieth century led to him being cited as a major influence of many talented designers that have since followed. That could not be more apparent than in the case of Lino Lando and the Venetian family business he runs with his sons Luca and Matteo. After years of meticulously studying Fortuny’s techniques, Lino founded the high-end lighting and fashion company, Atelier Fortuny Venezia. Established in 1984, Atelier Fortuny connection to the city of Venice and the shared cultural influences with Mariano Fortuny are integral to their creative vision. Fortuny’s love for exploration and experimentation, particularly his interest in nonwestern cultures always nourished his work. Whilst the Fortuny lamps often referenced the oriental styles both in technical and pattern design, his attention later turned to Kimonos, a beautiful form of informal indoor wear that became widely popular in the West towards the end of the 19th century. The greatest success of the Fortuny Atelier was the creation of the Delphos gown in 1909, an iconic dress, a landmark in the history of fashion. The most significant revolution introduced by Mariano Fortuny and his wife Henriette consists in the irregularity and quantity of folds which, imitating the Ionic Chiton of the Greek statues, adhere perfectly to the female body and show its natural shape. Beside that is the extraordinary resistance of the pleats for the first time in the history of pleating, as evidenced by Delphos gowns, over 60 years old, still maintaining the same

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“Fortuny’s love for exploration and experimentation, particularly his interest in non-western cultures always nourished his work”

shapes as when they were made. Atelier Fortuny continues to produce Delphos dresses, kimonos, shawls, and other accessories in the style of Fortuny, as Lino Lando and his two sons continue to unlock the imagination behind Fortuny’s products by utilising the very same techniques that were used at the time. Such modern takes on Fortuny’s classic pieces truly preserve the beauty and ingenuity of the Spaniard’s work. Atelier Fortuny Venezia set out in 1984 with a clear ambition to create products that speak in the universal language of fine craftsmanship, complex details, and good taste, just as Mariano Fortuny would have wanted. fortuny.uk

Discover our original Fortuny products: silk and glass lamps, clothing and soft furnishing. www.fortuny.uk

FASHION & BEAUTY

Katherine Elizabeth Relaunches Millinery Events Programme

his season sees the relaunch of the Katherine Elizabeth events programme. The award-winning millinery, based at Oxo Tower London, has unparalleled experience at creating fashion-forward workshops and events that have guests talking for months later. Whether it’s to fulfil that lockdown urge to learn a new skill, have a special occasion to celebrate with friends over a millinery afternoon tea, or

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looking for some expert private tuition- there’s lots to inspire. Guests will be immersed into the facinating world of millinery couture as Katherine Elizabeth’s team share with you age-old millinery techniques, millinery design and craft, and seasonal trends, complete with plenty of time to ask questions and chat with the experts. No experience of sewing or design is needed. Events in association with Katherine Elizabeth Millinery are tailored to each booking. The millinery caters for individual tuition, corporate events and team building, as well as alternative bridal showers, birthday parties and celebrations- always offering unrivalled creativity and fashionista fun! Prices start from £55.00pp with small classes able to be held at their London address. The millinery also work in partnership with several venues and locations across the country and can travel to different locations. katherineelizabethhats.com

BLUE VELVET SHOES

Visit Blue Velvet Shoes at 174 Kings Road, SW3 4UP or call 020 7376 7442 buy online www.bluevelvetshoes.com

FASHION & BEAUTY

Little luxuries & sensational skincare For make-up lovers, ‘skintellectuals’ (that’s a skincare intellectual, FYI) and anyone who loves nothing more than a long, hot soak in the bath. Katie Wright runs down the cult favourites and hot new launches

No7 Elizabeth Scarlett Travel Brush Collection Limited Edition, £20, Boots Part of a collaboration with artist and designer Elizabeth Scarlett, this travel-friendly pink flamingoembroidered pouch comes with a quartet of mini make-up brushes.

Honest Beauty Love Your Lips Tinted Lip Balm Trio, £24, Niche Beauty From actor Jessica Alba’s brand Honest Beauty, this tinted lip balm trio features fruity shades Lychee Fruit (nude), Summer Melon (rosy pink) and Blood Orange (warm red).

Drunk Elephant Trunk 5.0, £378, Space NK The ultimate in skincare indulgence, this hot pink four-wheeled suitcase is filled with 10 full-size Drunk Elephant favourites (including A-Passioni Retinol Cream, C-Firma Fresh Day Serum and TLC Sukari Babyfacial), the whole lot is worth a whopping £562.

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1 4

Mavala Golden Clash 407 Nail Polish, £4.96 (was £6.20), NailPolishDirect On its own or as a topper for another shade, this glittery gold Mavala mini nail polish is fabulous.

Jimmy Choo I Want Choo Eau de Parfum Gift Set, £65, The Perfume Shop With notes of jasmine, peach and vanilla, I Want Choo is a softly sweet fragrance that works for day or night. This duo of perfume and body lotion lets you layer and intensify the scent.

Ciate Curated by Hannah Martin, £40 Worth an incredible £134, the five-piece kit curated by renowned make-up artist Hannah Martin contains everything you need to create a range of glam, pinkyhued party looks.

FASHION & BEAUTY

SEE INSIDE THE UK’S FIRST PERMANENT GLOSSIER STORE The cult beauty brand has launched its first international flagship. By Katie Wright

hristmas came early for beauty buffs with the arrival of the UK’s first permanent Glossier store, which opened on Thursday December 9. Following a hugely successful pop-up in 2019, the cult American brand has positioned its first international flagship on King Street in London’s Covent Garden. The spacious, minimalist shop houses the full range of Glossier skincare, make-up and accessories, giving fans the chance to test and stock up on cosmetics classics such as Boy Brow eyebrow gel, Cloud Paint blusher and Balm Dotcom lip balms as well as recently launched Monochromes eyeshadow palettes. As for skincare, there’s also a wet bar, allowing visitors to trial fan favourites including Milky Jelly Cleanser and Futuredew Serum, plus the new

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Universal Pro-Retinol serum. Exclusive to the London store, the Glossier Passport Holder, £25, comes in the brand’s signature pale pink, with £5 from every sale going to Hatch, the non-profit that helps underrepresented entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses. It truly is a pink paradise. 43 King St, London WC2E 8JY glossier.com

London’s hidden secret, London Silver Vaults home to Belmont Jewellers

elmont Jewellers have been established for more than 40 years in London and deal in all aspects of the jewellery trade, from antique to modern jewellery. Our expertise extends across a wide field, from buying and selling second-hand watches, diamonds, silver and gold jewellery, to stocking an exciting selection of jewellery for all occasions as well as major brands of watches including Cartier, Rolex, Patek Philippe and Omega. Selling and buying precious items can be a daunting experience. At Belmont Jewellers, we aim to take the stress out of the situation and make it as easy as possible. How do we do this? We will guide you along the way just as we have done with all our past and present customers in a professional and personal way, allowing us to help you decide what you’d like to sell or buy and give advice and most importantly make you feel comfortable from

start to finish. We pride ourselves on our honesty and transparency and we believe that is why we have been successful for the last 40 years. belmontjewellers.co.uk

Belmont Jewellers

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FASHION & BEAUTY

UPDATE YOUR LOUNGEWEAR WARDROBE FOR WINTER These are the snug trends to know about now, says Katie Wright. BUTTON UP CARDIGAN, £45; PLAIN WIDE LEG BOTTOMS, £30 (WERE £15), AVAILABLE FROM JOE BROWNS

a major trend – with fluffy, super-soft fabrics that will keep you warm all winter, and slouchy ribbed cardigans making a comeback. COSY DRESSES A bit like a nightie, except suitable for Zoom calls, a lounge dress is a really versatile piece. Layer over leggings for extra warmth, or team with boots and a puffer jacket when you need to pop out to the shop.

SPIRIT STRIPE HOODIE, £32.99, AVAILABLE FROM M&CO

BAGGY TROUSERS Just as baggy jeans have taken over from skinnies this year, loungewear trousers have got a lot looser too. Swap your cuffed sweat pants for oversized, flared or wide-leg styles if you want to be bang on trend. STRIPES

KNITTED DRESS, £45; (RE) GENERATION TRAINERS, £24.50 (WERE £49), AVAILABLE FROM DAMAR

Loungewear’s answer to the classic Breton top, striped separates are a cute way to add print to your comfies collection, especially if you opt for bright, moodboosting hues.

emember back in the pre-pandemic days, when loungewear was reserved for lazy Sundays spent on the sofa, nursing a sore head and bingeing trash TV? Now, even though many offices have reopened, many employees are choosing to continue working from home at least part-time – and comfy clothes have replaced stuffy shirts and tailored trousers, as working dress codes become a thing of the past. It’s official: loungewear is a way of life. In fact, after sales boomed during lockdown, we’re now seeing seasonal trends emerging within the indoor clothing category. So, how do make sure your loungewear look is up to date for this autumn/winter? Here are four easy updates to try… KNITTED LOUNGEWEAR Last year it was all about sporty sweatshirts and jersey separates. This season, knitted loungewear is

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OSLO KNITTED TROUSER IN ABSTRACT WHITE ON BLACK, £45, AVAILABLE FROM DANCING LEOPARD.

STUDIO KNITTED LOUNGE CARDIGAN, £55, AVAILABLE FROM SONDER

NATURAL TIE FRONT LOUNGE TOP, £18 (WAS £25); NATURAL SOFT JERSEY WIDE LEG LOUNGE PANTS, £20 (WERE £22), AVAILABLE FROM ROMAN

Taking inspiration from her travels in the Balearics and beyond, Luna Menta founder Deborah Menta, a London-based jewellery buyer with over 25 years’ experience, has carefully curated a stunning collection of one-of-a-kind pieces using hand-sourced gemstones, pearls and charms. From resort wear to everyday jewellery, unique commissions to heirloom pieces, there is something for every occasion. Enjoy building your own collection of sustainable beauty that won’t cost the earth! W W W. L U N A M E N TA . C O M A N D O N I G @ L U N A M E N TA J E W E L L E RY

AIR • WATER • FIRE • EARTH Earth, Air, Fire, water was birthed from the divine forces of nature and ancient philosophy, from around the world. These elements exist around us and within us, and they are indestructible and unchangeable. This is where Ele4orce’s jewellery can be adorned to create elegance, beauty & balance. At Ele4orce Community, we care about the society as a whole and we believe in the One Energy. The Ele4orce team is actively contributing to the society through multiple charity activities. Every piece sold online via our website will result in a new tree planted.

www.ele4orce.com Instagram: ele4orcejewellery ele4orcebespoke Facebook: ele4orcejewellery

FASHION & BEAUTY

Andalusite & Diamonds

Blue Topaz, Peridot & Diamonds Lemon Quartz, Peridot & Diamonds

Bespoke Jeweller, Asks:

Pink Sapphire & Diamonds

ARE DIAMONDS STILL A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND IN 2022?

ung about by Marilyn Monroe in ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’, Are Diamonds Still a Girl’s Best Friend? Absolutley YES! However, whilst diamonds have their fascination, glamour and charm, strongly associated to romance and love, not everyone prefers a diamond. Interest in coloured gemstone jewellery has definitely grown with some large rare coloured gems reaching record values, priced far above diamonds. Coloured gemstones come in the most magnificent array of hues and saturation of colours, from pale and delicate, to vivid and radiant through to deep and intense; they are seriously exciting and mesmerising in an entirely different way to diamonds. Blue sapphires, red rubies and green emeralds are easily the most recognisable traditional gemstones but in recent years the market has been energised by the discovery of newly found amazing gemstones from all corners of the world. Today, beautiful, fun, affordable, alluring coloured gemstones are well represented and available in specialist knowledgeable jewellers, such as Michael Platt Jewellers. There is more availability of many wonderful brilliantly coloured lesser known gems whose true beauty is brought alive by the skill of specialist stone cutters using imaginative creative techniques. Michael Platt, specialist Bespoke Jeweller and Goldsmith in Wimbledon Village, has a passion, excitement and appreciation of all fine quality coloured gemstones. They offer a fantastic

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available choice of coloured gems set in unique jewellery; deep hyacinth blue Tanzanite, perfect peachy Morganite (named after JP Morgan), mint green sparkling Merelani Garnet, hot pink Spinel, regal purple Amethyst, electric swimming-pool blue Pariba Tourmaline, warm green Tsavorite, watery deep sea blue Aquamarine, lime green Peridot and Sapphires in all hues. Coloured gemstones in jewellery can be less formal, easily reflecting unique personality and individualism in a way that diamonds never can. If you have never considered coloured gemstone jewellery before, Michael Platt is the specialist jeweller to visit; their enthusiastic delight for coloured gems is contagious. Whatever your budget, Michael Platt specialise in working with customers, sourcing specific coloured gemstones to requirement and creating unique striking designs for settings. Some of the more unusual lesser known gems, where demand is presently low, can be surprisingly beautiful and more financially accessible than well established gemstones. If a distinctive coloured gemstone piece of jewellery is right for you or someone special in your life, pop into Michael Platt to see what’s available. For a unique piece there is no charge for consultation or initial drawings. With just a little extra thought and effort, along with expert professional input and guidance from Michael Platt, an exceptional piece of jewellery can be created which, once given, will always be treasured.

Tanzanite & Diamonds

THE DETAILS Michael Platt, 1 Church Road, Wimbledon Village, SW19 5DW www.michaelplatt.co.uk Tel: 020 8947 4772 Open Tues- Sun

FASHION & BEAUTY

KASAA COUTURE

ASAA COUTURE - is a luxurious brand of everyday sports attire with a bourgeois flair for quintessentially elegant ladies founded by gallerist, luxury brand manager Julia Kapitonova-Saada. Julia dedicated more than 30 years to sports including 10 years to ballet, created in 2018 her first range of functional, feminine “sportslife wear” as a response to her personal busy lifestyles and the need for multi-tasking pieces that could be worn to the gym, outdoor workouts and beyond, consciously. The idea of KASAA COUTURE came in 2016 when Julia and her family were living in Asia. All her family is into sport, parents involved her into the daily sport by their own example when Julia was 3 years old. So daily sport and being active is more a way of life rather than a trend for Julia. Because of the high level of humidity in Asia, and the climate in general, it was difficult to find technical, fashionable, supportive and stylish sportswear at the same time. She was unable to find the clothes that she liked. Everything was too flashy, very bright, with a lot of logos, color blocks or nets, the fabrics were not able to provide the shape or support ... not what she needed to wear for such a high intensity sport level and for those who prefers elegance and monochrome in a daily life. So Julia got the idea to create sports pieces for herself and her family members keeping in mind design based on her experience in ballet. The idea was to create highly technical, functional, breathable, second-skin-sensation

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shaping leggings and sports bras that would take sports to the next level without any discomfort. Items which have to be timeless elegant. It took one year for Julia to find the right fabric and right designs she was exactly looking for. After sometime Julia started to receive questions from other women where to buy the same style and quality sets. For now, in 2021 KASAA clients from UK, France, Italy, Russia, Mauritius, Seychelles, South Africa and Australia love KASAA COUTURE aesthetics. KASAA clients are wives of diplomats; women in Politics, Olympic Champions and all those for whom sport is a lifestyle. KASAA mission is not only to make their clients - indeed all women – more beautiful, but also to make them happy, to help them dream.

THE DETAILS KASAA has been featured in VANITY FAIR, TATLER & CONDE NAST TRAVELLER. Website: kasaacouture.com Instagram: @kasaa__couture

Photo: Julia Kapitonova-Saada Photographers: Kseniya Chebiryak, MUAH and Ashvin Ramdin. Elena Vinokurova. Stylist: Mila Prost

FASHION & BEAUTY

The story of Luna Menta T

he story of Luna Menta is a story of love, two great passions and the marriage of jewellery and travel. After more than 20 years working as a jewellery buyer and becoming the go-to stylist for a wealth of jewellery-savvy clients, Deborah started to feel like she wanted more. She wanted freedom to create something of her own, something beautiful but with sustainability and a conscience at its core. After the death of her beloved mother, the time had come for a pause and reset. Two years of travelling to the Balearic Islands, Capri, Bali and the islands of French Polynesia, taking inspiration from each incredible destination, Deborah retuned home, and Luna Menta was born. Deborah has carefully curated a selection of jewellery with the Gypset at its heart, inspired by wanderlust and the bohemian existence. Along the way she has collaborated with jewellery designers who she feels intense synergy with, who have a love of travel, nature and sustainability. Among the highlights has been working with Ibiza native and good friend Natasha Dahlberg on the Sunken Treasure collection. Tahitian pearls, hand selected by Deborah from the pearl farm in Taha’a, scattered with long searched-for vintage charms and adorned with diamond accents, all on 18ct gold. Pairing vintage charms with antique elements to create modern heirlooms to be treasured and passed on for generations to come. With the love of the ocean at the forefront of everything Luna Menta does, the Posidonia collection, inspired by the waters surrounding Ibiza, is a perfect example of how jewellery can

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be a force for good. With every sale from the collection, a donation to the “Save The Posidonia” project based in Ibiza is made. A selection of seacoloured gems like turquoise, aquamarine, emerald and jade are paired with vintage charms and gold chains to create uniquely beautiful pieces. The love of the Gypset life has inspired the Voyage collection, travel talismans with a nod to some of the most famous and beautiful locations from around the world – from Mykonos to Los Angeles, St Barths to Tulum and beyond. Visit LunaMenta.com to discover more.

“Deborah has carefully curated a selection of jewellery with the Gypset at its heart, inspired by wanderlust and the bohemian existence”

HEALTH

& FITNESS

– Everything you need to keep fit, healthy, and happy – I M A G E : S T J O H N & S T E L I Z A B E T H H O S P I TA L

H EALTH & FITNESS

Matcha, nature’s healthiest energy drink

NSO Matcha is an independent UK brand, using matcha tea to inspire people to live healthier, happier lives after experiencing the positive impact it had on their own lives. Steeped in history, matcha has been celebrated for over 800 years by Japanese Buddhist monks who used it to remain calm yet alert during long meditation sessions. It’s nature’s healthiest energy drink, and it’s pretty special. The unique combination of caffeine and an amino acid called L-theanine means that you get a big energy boost, but it’s absorbed by your body more slowly. You can enjoy longer-lasting energy, with none of the intense side effects many of us experience with coffee and other energy drinks. L-theanine has been called “Nature’s Xanax” thanks to its stress-reducing, mood-lifting properties. Not many people are familiar with matcha - so it’s important to look for quality when you’re trying it, especially for the first time. Poor quality matcha is bitter and astringent, while high-quality matcha is naturally sweet and complex in flavours like coffee and wine. ENSO Matcha’s tea is grown in small batches, on family-run farms in Uji, Japan. It’s widely regarded as the best place in the world to grow matcha thanks to its mineral-rich soil and unique topography.

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The journey from farm to cup involves a delicate process. Tea plants are shade-grown for weeks prior to harvest to increase the flavour and L-theanine content. The leaves are then carefully hand-picked, steamed, dried and de-veined. Tea masters work their magic to create Enso Matcha’s signature blends - Ceremonial Grade and Everyday Grade - before the leaves are gently stone-ground into an ultra-fine powder. If you’d like to learn more about how this ancient health drink can improve your wellbeing, visit ensomatcha.co.uk and follow @ensomatcha on Instagram.

READER OFFER: SAVE

25%

THE DETAILS Email: hello@ensomatcha.co.uk Instagram: @ensomatcha Website: ensomatcha.co.uk Save 25% with code: READER25

H EALTH & FITNESS

IS COLLAGEN THE HOLY GRAIL OF ANTI-AGING?

Why this super-ingredient is nature’s secret to looking and feeling your best

n the quest for optimal health and ageless beauty, we are often searching for a “wonder pill” that’ll do the job for us. Unfortunately, there are many lifestyle factors that can affect our health and beauty so it’s usually best to take an all-round approach. However, over the past 5-10 years there has been an abundance of research investigating the benefits of taking daily collagen and how collagen can improve skin hydration, joint and bone health, weight loss and hair growth – who can say no to those benefits when they come from just one source? Could it be that we have finally found that “wonder pill”? In our early 30s, we notice the first tell-tale signs of wrinkles around the eyes and aches in our joints for the first time, which coincides with the slowing down of the body’s natural collagen production. Since ancient times humans have consumed more collagen than we do now, and it’s been an important source of nutrition. But modern food processing has removed collagen from our diets and supplementing with quality Marine Collagen is important to regenerate our bodies for a fuller, active life. However, not all collagens are created equal, and it’s important to look for quality and efficacy. CORREXIKO put quality at the forefront of everything they do. Derived from wild-caught, unfarmed fish in pristine Canadian waters, their

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Marine Collagen uses the fish skin, which has the largest concentration of collagen. Unlike farmed fish collagen from China and Vietnam, where environmental standards haven’t been established yet, CORREXIKO Collagen contains no heavy metals or harmful ingredients. Founded by a Doctor with over 10 years’ experience researching the benefits of collagen, CORREXIKO Collagen is highly bioavailable and effective thanks to an innovative double-hydrolysed process which breaks the collagen peptides down to an industry leading particle size. Unflavoured and completely pure, the awardwinning CORREXIKO Marine Collagen can be easily added to your lifestyle. Simply add to coffees and drinks and sip your way to a more revitalised version of you! correxiko.com instagram.com/correxiko

“Derived from wildcaught, unfarmed fish in pristine Canadian waters, their Marine Collagen uses the fish skin, which has the largest concentration of collagen”

H EALTH & FITNESS

Studium Body Works Interview Fraser Smythe, Director. By Josh Hart

So, what is Studium Body Works and what do you do here? Hi Josh, straight to the point! So, Studium Body Works is a luxury, uncrowded and by appointment only Personal Training, Manual Therapy Rehabilitation & Boxing Studio in the heart of London’s West End! We are a team of highly qualified health care and fitness professionals, most of whom who have competed at the highest level of sport, and we have made the conscious choice to do this job and at a standard of excellence. Ok, is it the training programs and therapy techniques themselves that hit that standard? Our training programs are evidence based, adaptable and are integrated with our Myofascial & Combination Therapy, which is highly successful; but that is only part of the experience here. First, we practice the highest standard of customer service as a baseline and then deliver the very best for each individual client and patient. Sounds good, what sort of clients and patients do you get here? It’s mixed. We have a whole roster of Amateur Athletes, an Explorer (South Pole right now), Many Post Op Rehab Patients, 5 Professional Combat Athletes; but surprisingly most of our patients and clients are people that lead a stressful worklife, with limited time to train and get themselves strong. So how does it work for a new client here? We assess that person and can include objective measures like Body Composition, VO2 & Heart Rate Phases; set up a Nutrition, Training & Physical Therapy Plan, which will always include strength for posture as well as that person’s preferences and then start the plan.

Ok great, what is the most interesting part of your job? That’s an easy one! Myofascial Therapy. Explain that one? I’ve been a Coach & Trainer for 25 years and a Manual Therapist for nearly two decades. I started my Myofascial Journey some 10 years ago and it unlocked everything. It is without doubt a key part of everything we do and everything that happens to us, a total game changer! Interesting! What services are on offer here at this Fantastic Space. We offer, Personal Training, Myofascial Release & Combination Therapy, Postural Strength Training, Real Boxing & Kickboxing Training, Nutrition Services, Yoga, Pilates, and Massage Services. studiumbodyworks.com

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H EALTH & FITNESS

DON’T LET ACHES AND PAINS GET IN THE WAY THIS JANUARY Try Nuasan Active CBD Muscle Gel

ure, maximum strength CBD, warming blend of active botanical extracts and 0% THC Less than a year after launching to the UK market, pioneering Irish active body care brand Nuasan (nuasan.com) expand its collection with the release of its Active CBD Muscle Gel. A premium product that, unlike other CBD products comes as a gel, is destined to be an innovative challenger to other brands targeting sore and aching muscles. Offering rapid relief and relaxation, the unisex product cleverly blends CBD, hemp oil and a blend of pure plant extracts including Amyris, Eucalyptus, Cinnamon, Capsicum, Peppermint and Cassia, to give warming and focused relief to sore, aching muscles following any exercise or lifestyle activity. It can also be applied prior to movement or exercise to protect problem areas and is effective on joints too. Priced at £34 and with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, key features include: • Gel format • Pure, maximum strength CBD at 500mg • Warming blend of natural, active botanical extracts • 0% THC • Non-greasy and fast-absorbing • Vegan, natural, sustainable, scientifically-proven and biologically effective.

Positively disruptive, the Active CBD Muscle Gel enhances the brand’s fundamental mission to keep people moving and feeling great, by creating and delivering functional products that focus on post-exercise, downtime recovery to cleanse, protect, soothe and hydrate the body from the outside in, promoting natural healing and self-care. The Active CBD Muscle Gel is Nuasan’s fifth product to launch and complements the brand’s body wash, moisturiser, foot spray and body wipes. As well as the natural benefits to the body, with a love of the planet and serious clean practices, Nuasan eco credentials include: • Body wipes are made from plant-based fibres and are 100% biodegradable • 75% of its bottles are made from recycled plastic and all boxes made from recycled paper • All products are made from natural, sustainable ingredients and are free from sulphates, parabens, colorants, silicons and ethanolamines • HQ is powered solely by wind power • 10% of profits go to climate change groups and sustainable charities. A wellness wonder, Nuasan is fast making its mark across the health & fitness, well-being and active lifestyle spaces. Nuasan are offering a free Nuasan Active Foot Care product with every purchase for a limited time only, check it out today on nuasan.com.

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“The Active CBD Muscle Gel is Nuasan’s fifth product to launch and complements the brand’s body wash, moisturiser, foot spray and body wipes”

H EALTH & FITNESS

THE KENSINGTON WING T

“To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay”

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he Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services. Being located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital - one of the UK’s safest hospitals - the safety and wellbeing of mother and baby are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times, 24/7, dedicated to the needs of women on the Kensington Wing. In these uncertain times, expectant parents can have additional anxieties or concerns about childbirth or going into a hospital. To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven in these times and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe. On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team. And are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages. The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries from prospective women and the opportunity to discuss midwifeled care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’ sessions are always a relaxed and special time to

talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of our experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They remain to support you through the postnatal period including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation. The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions. If you would like to talk to one of the team, call 020 3315 8616, email chelwest.kensington@nhs.net or visit our website thekensingtonwing.co.uk

H EALTH & FITNESS

SMEAR TEST

What it is and why you should go

ach year, around 3,000 women in the UK are told they have cervical cancer. A smear test can save your life and is the most effective way to prevent cervical cancer. Shockingly, many women are missing tests, with cervical screening at their lowest for two decades. King Edward VII’s Hospital Consultant Gynaecologist Mr Joseph Yazbek, explains why you should attend a smear test and alleviates any concerns you may have. What is a smear test? A cervical smear is a swab that tests the health of your cervix (the opening to your womb). It simply tells you whether you are at low or high risk of developing cervical abnormalities. It doesn’t diagnose cancer, just flags potentially abnormal cells. Should your smear result come back as abnormal, then you may be asked to attend for another test - called a colposcopy - to confirm whether the cells are indeed abnormal. Why you should attend a smear test? Around 220,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cell changes each year, and there are around 850 deaths from cervical cancer in the

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UK every year. Regular cervical screening to detect abnormal cells on the entrance to the womb could reduce these numbers. A smear test may bring a few minutes of discomfort, but prevent 75% of cervical cancers so could save your life. It is a very straightforward procedure that lasts

“There are around 850 deaths from cervical cancer in the UK every year”

around five minutes and meant to prevent you from developing invasive cervical cancer.. There are a few ways in which you can make the test more comfortable for yourself: • Wear comfortable clothes to feel more at ease • If you prefer, you could ask for a woman to do the test • Ask to change your position if it’s uncomfortable • Bring a friend to support you • Have a treat afterwards! Who is invited for a cervical screening? In the UK, women, and trans men who still have a cervix, between the age of 25 and 49 years old are invited for cervical screening every three years. Those aged 50 to 64 years old are invited every five years. If you’re over 65, you will only be invited for cervical screening if you’ve had an abnormal test result from a recent smear test. Why are women missing smear tests? A study by Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust found that body hang-ups were one of the main reasons for women missing their smear tests. One in three said that being embarrassed about their body was one of the reasons for not attending their

appointment. Others just don’t see it as a priority, saying they wouldn’t miss the gym to attend. Attending your smear test appointment is the best way for you to keep a check on the health of your cervix. What is HPV? HPV refers to a group of viruses largely transmitted through sexual contact. The vast majority of HPV strains don’t cause any issues, but certain ones (strains 16 and 18) can cause cervical cancer. The good news is that there are vaccines available for these types of HPV. This is why early detection is key and cervical screening can help with this.

“A study by Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust found that body hangups were one of the main reasons for women missing their smear tests”

Should I still go for my smear test during COVID-19? The short answer is yes, if you’re not displaying coronavirus symptoms: important tests like smear tests are currently still going ahead as normal and GP surgeries are working as usual. If you’re concerned about the health of your cervix, call a member of our dedicated patient services team at King Edward VII’s Hospital to discuss your options: 020 7467 4344, Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm. kingedwardvii.co.uk JANUARY 2022 215

H EALTH & FITNESS

Luxwells: Luxury intertwined with Wellbeing

anting to thoroughly enjoy the benefits of drinking water, but struggling deeply to overcome the blandness, Founder Kristal Baker began experimenting with how to pair flavoursome water infusions, which were not a chore to drink. Driven solely by the intense desire to taste an alternative which was enjoyable, refreshing and original, the outcome of extensive research, trials and testing, resulted in the emerging of Luxwells. It is their brand’s profound intent to cater to the growing market of health-conscious consumers, who neglect to drink enough water due to the challenge that overcoming the taste presents. Luxwells do not believe that you should have to choose between good health and personal enjoyment. It is for this reason that Luxwells strives every day to make both aspects one and the same. With highly considered ingredient compositions, each handmade containment is dynamically infused with real flowers and plant-based ingredients, to achieve natural goodness and optimum flavour. 216 JANUARY 2022

“Luxwells uses 3 different types of roses to maximise the taste, define the scent and highlight the colour, giving a real sensory experience”

Luxwells gently tapers the amplified tartness of their chosen zesty hibiscus petals with the sweetest mint, to marry the perfect union of sharpness and texture. They blend just enough pear to gently soothe the spirited potency of lavender, whilst still encouraging its enhancing effect. Luxwells uses 3 different types of roses to maximise the taste, define the scent and highlight the colour, giving a real sensory experience. They select their honey to best complement each flavour, using duskier and richer shades of honey, to maintain best quality, these shadowing tones follow through to the deeper beverage shades that you will find from Luxwells. Be led by the unadulterated scent of nature’s unfolding story, composed for a truly authentic, floral experience, and bottled to capture a precise moment of unearthed, botanical purity. Some of the considered health propositions of the ingredients used, can include indigestion relief, increased antioxidants, immune boosting benefits, enhanced healing properties, antibacterial effects, heightened cognition, and improved mood. It is of high importance to Luxwells to ensure that there are no artificial flavours or colourings within their products. Luxury intertwined with Wellbeing is their successive aspiring. Luxwells therefore, invite you to simultaneously uncage and increase your hydration, realigning your wellbeing positively, from one point to another. For more details and to order visit liveluxwells.co.uk or email info@liveluxwells.co.uk instagram.com/liveluxwells

BE THE FIRST TO GET HYDRATED The offering of flowers is a universal language of prevailing gesture. At Luxwells we offer to you our interpretation of nature’s enchanting garden… one beautiful bottle at a time. www.liveluxwells.co.uk info@liveluxwells.co.uk www.instagram.com/liveluxwells

H EALTH & FITNESS

Access the latest diagnostics technology in NW8 A

s part of its £35 million new wing project, St John & St Elizabeth Hospital has recently unveiled a refreshed imaging department, which features some of the latest in imaging technology. The hospital’s newly improved diagnostics capability means that those in the St John’s Wood and surrounding community can have the confidence that should anything happen, they will receive the fastest and most accurate diagnosis possible; an important first step in their journey back to full health.

Quick and accurate diagnosis The Hospital offers, amongst its many other services, the following scans: • X-ray • Fluoroscopy (this uses X-rays to create real-time moving images of your internal organs) • MRI (this can diagnose anything from torn 218 JANUARY 2022

ligaments to tumours) • Ultrasound • CT scans • Mammography

As well as investing in leading-edge equipment, such as two new MRI scanners, which have wider bores (hole in the scanner) that make them more comfortable and less daunting for claustrophobic patients, the hospital has introduced new facilities, which include private changing rooms and a patient preparation room. Hannah O’Connor, Imaging Manager, says, “As a team we are delighted to be opening our new department. It is such an exciting time for us and we can’t wait to welcome our patients to our new facilities.”

An investment for the local community Since 2018, the Hospital has been building its

“As a team we are delighted to be opening our new department. It is such an exciting time for us and we can’t wait to welcome our patients to our new facilities”

GET IN TOUCH St John & St Elizabeth Hospital 60 Grove End Road London NW8 9NH

“Our new wing represents huge efforts from our staff, surgeons and the design team” £35 million three-floor new wing; the largest investment made into the organisation to date. Four new theatres have already been unveiled, as well as a brand new six-bay recovery area and modern waiting areas. By summer, the local community will be able to take advantage of another two operating theatres with the latest surgical equipment to allow for complex operations and an expanded Urgent Care Clinic. This service, which is accessible seven days a week, provides instant access to treatment for minor injuries and illnesses for people aged one and up. “Our new wing represents huge efforts from our staff, surgeons and the design team to create an environment that will provide the highest standards of care for our patients,” says Caroline Fox, St John & St Elizabeth Hospital’s Chief Executive Officer. “They have worked against all odds, particularly having to navigate COVID-19 restrictions, to produce a beautiful addition to this historic hospital, and one which will go on to serve the community of St John’s Wood for many years to come. The new wing will provide state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to expand our capacity to treat patients in superb surroundings.”

is one of the UK’s largest independent charitable hospitals. Excellence of care has been at the core of its ethos since it opened under the care of the Sisters of Mercy, an order of nuns who worked with Florence Nightingale in the Crimean War. In 1899, the hospital was moved, brick by brick, to its current location in the heart of St John’s Wood, including the careful relocation of its exquisite chapel. All these years later, the Hospital has stayed true to its mission to help the needy in the local community. All profits from the hospital go towards funding the onsite St John’s Hospice, which provides free care to over 4,500 people and their families each year, across seven boroughs.

If you would like to book an appointment, or need any advice, call the team on 020 7806 4000 or email info@hje.org.uk To find out more about the hospital, visit hje.org.uk You can ask your GP for a referral to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital. You can mix and match between NHS and private, and choose between diagnostics, surgery, or physio.

A hospital with a heart Founded in 1865, St John & St Elizabeth Hospital JANUARY 2022 219

H EALTH & FITNESS

CASUALTY FIRST

he Urgent Care Clinic at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital in St John’s Wood provides first-class care and treatment for all the family for a range of minor accidents, injuries, and illnesses with safe, efficient consultations without the wait.

NO WAITING TIMES – JUST BOOK AN APPOINTMENT The Urgent Care Clinic is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, and weekends from 8am to 6pm, with same day appointments and no waiting times, so people are seen quickly and are guaranteed to receive tailored care promptly. The service operates on an appointment only basis, but booking is easy and made over the phone, with most appointments scheduled for the same day.

A WIDE RANGE OF TREATMENTS The clinic offers a wide range of treatments for urgent injuries and illnesses, including sports injuries; fractures; soft tissue injuries; sprains and strains, ear; nose and throat conditions; eye conditions; and stomach, bowel and bladder problems. Instant referrals are also available to over 500 expert Consultant specialists, all under one roof in 220 JANUARY 2022

the comfortable private hospital of St John & St Elizabeth.

SAFETY ASSURED The Hospital has been recognised by Bupa as a COVID-19 Green Zone for complying with the UK guidance on COVID-19 infection control.

VISIT URGENT CARE Located at the entrance of St John & St Elizabeth Hospital in St John’s Wood, the Urgent Care Clinic is a self-pay service for all the family, including children aged one and up, with appointments from around £100.

THE DETAILS Book your appointment by phone on 0207 432 8300 Find out more at: hje.org.uk/ services/private-urgent-care-centre Open 8am - 8pm (last appointment at 7pm) Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm Saturday and Sunday (last appointment at 5pm) St John & St Elizabeth Hospital 60 Grove End Road London NW8 9NH

Leading private Urgent Care Clinic in St John’s Wood Receive fast treatment and excellent care for all minor accidents, injuries and illnesses.

No waiting times Open Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm and Saturday & Sunday 8am to 6pm, with same day appointments and no waiting times, so you can be seen quickly. How we can help We treat sports injuries; fractures; soft tissue injuries; sprains and strains; ear, nose and throat conditions; eye conditions; and stomach, bowel and bladder problems. Instant referrals are also available to expert Consultant specialists, all under one roof. COVID-19 Green Zone We are recognised by Bupa as a COVID-19 Green Zone. Your safety is our top priority.

Book an appointment on 0207 432 8300 Open Monday -to Friday8am 8am- 7.30pm. to 8pm and Saturday Sunday8am 8am to 6pm. Open Monday Friday: Saturday and & Sunday: - 5.30pm

https://www.hje.org.uk/services/private-urgent-care-centre St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, 60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH

H EALTH & FITNESS

THE RISK ASSOCIATED WITH ALCOHOL By Dr Angela Rai of The London General Practice risk of a heart attack and stroke. • Most alcohol that goes into the body is processed by your liver. Long term drinking can lead to a fatty liver, hepatitis and cirrhosis, making it harder for the liver to work. Fatty liver disease is preventable and can get better when you stop drinking. However, it can lead to an enlarged liver and alcoholic cirrhosis. • Excess alcohol may lead to gastritis and stomach ulcers. Also there is a risk of cancer including breast and oral cancers. It can also affect social wellbeing including hangovers, lack of sleep and poor performance at work.

ew Year’s resolutions start to wane and we return to our usual drinking habits. But are we aware of the risks of alcohol? Alcohol is a powerful chemical with effects on almost every part of the body including the brain, bones and heart. UK guidelines suggest there is no safe level of drinking, but to keep health risks low, it suggests no more than 14 units per week and spread consumption evenly over three days or more rather than binge drinking. Alcoholic drinks come in different strength and sizes. For example, one pint of 4% ABV beer and/or a medium glass (175 ml) of 12% ABV wine contains around two units of alcohol each. A strong 5.2% pint of beer contains three units and a strong wine, (14%), in a large glass at 250 ml, contains around three and a half units. There are short and long-term health effects of alcohol that can affect your body, lifestyle and mental health. • Small amounts can affect important functions like speech and movement. The medium-term effects can include slow reactions and impaired memory. Alcohol is a depressant so can affect feelings and actions, and sometimes long-term mental health. • Drinking large all at once can slow the heart rate and breathing to dangerously low levels. There is a link between drinking too much and high blood pressure, putting strain on the heart which can lead to cardiovascular disease and increase your

222 JANUARY 2022

If you have any concerns about drinking it is advisable to seek medical attention and talk to your GP or other local alcohol services. Dr Angela Rai The London General Practice – Leaders in Medical Excellence 0207 935 1000 info@thelondongeneralpractice.com thelondongeneralpractice.com

H EALTH & FITNESS

GUIDELINES ON CERVICAL SCREENING

smear test (cervical screening) is when the health of the cervix (the opening to the womb from the vagina) is checked. A sample of cells is taken form the cervix to look for abnormal cell changes. Abnormal cell changes if left untreated can lead to cancerous cells, which can potentially lead to cervical cancer. Human Papilloma Virus or HPV is a group of viruses that infect the skin and cells lining the inside of the body. Some types of HPV can lead to cell changes in the cervix which can then lead to cancerous changes. The UK National Screening Committee has changed its guidance and now recommends that patients should receive a high risk HPV (HR-HPV) screening before smear testing. The sample is taken in the same way as a smear test. The changes have come about because a randomised controlled trial has shown that HRHPV is more sensitive than cytology (examination of cells under a microscope) at picking up potentially precancerous changes. So this is now 224 JANUARY 2022

thought to be better protection against cervical cancer. Once you’ve have had your screening test, if HPV is shown as negative, no further testing is needed at the time and your doctor will recommend when to have repeat screen. However, if HPV results come back positive (HPV is found), then cytology is performed on the sample to determine why the results are abnormal. If cytology is abnormal, the recommendation is that those patients will be referred for colposcopy. Colposcopy is when the cervix can be looked at in more detail and samples can be taken from any abnormal areas and treatment can then be given if necessary. These changes have come into effect in most private practices and in some areas of the NHS. HPV vaccine is currently offered to girls aged between 12 and 13 years on the NHS, and in now some areas the vaccine is also being offered to boys. If the vaccine is missed you can still speak to your doctor about getting a vaccine.

“These changes have come into effect in most private practices and in some areas of the NHS”

THE DETAILS To learn more about health screening, or to arrange a HPV test please contact the London General Practice on 020 7935 1000. thelondongeneralpractice.com

H EALTH & FITNESS

UROLOGY AWARENESS

he broad field of urology includes the health of the kidneys, bladder and urethra, as well as the male anatomy involved in sexual function, namely the prostate, penis and testicles. It is estimated that half of the population will be affected by a urological condition in their lifetime. Conditions range from diseases that affect our quality of life, such as erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence, to cancers that can potentially be fatal. Urology also deals with male infertility, which often goes undiagnosed, despite being the cause of a quarter of cases of couples having difficulty with conceiving. Whilst urological diseases and cancers are becoming more prevalent, diagnosis and treatments continue to improve across this field. It is crucial for individuals to be aware of when to seek help and advice, as early intervention improves outcomes and quality of life.

How can you help yourself ? • Book in for an annual health check-up to identify early warning signs, such as abnormal prostate blood markers. Almost half of cancers are diagnosed at a late stage in England. • Discuss promptly and freely any symptoms or concerns you may have with your doctor. Most prostate cancers develop with symptoms at the early stages, thus men over 40 years old are advised to check in with their GP as often as they can. 226 JANUARY 2022

• Undertake monthly self-examinations to screen for new testicular lumps. • Be aware of your family history. Your risk of testicular cancer is slightly higher and you are twice as likely to get prostate cancer if you have a father or a brother who have had either of these cancers. You may even be at a higher risk if your mother or sister has had breast cancer. • Reduce your risk by improving your lifestyle. Obesity is a significant factor for developing kidney cancer and 24% of kidney cancers are linked to smoking. • Smoking also leads to half of all bladder cancers. • Don’t suffer in silence. Erectile dysfunction is more common than some realise, with an estimated 50% of men between the ages of 40 and 70 suffering from it. Dr Sanjay Mehta

Dr Sanjay Mehta

THE DETAILS The London General Practice 114a Harley Street, London W1G 7JL Tel: 0207 935 1000 Private GP services thelondongeneralpractice.com Occupational Health and Corporate Health Services londonocchealth.com

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