community connection practical hands-on workshops through education & action promotion
Herbal medicine tools for health 4 wellness and dietary modifications
Temperance health private clinic & herbal apothecary
O ering private consultations through our student herbal medicine clinic for free. To book your free consultation scan the QR code.
Enjoy our wide selection of specialty tea’s and organic co ee in our tea & Co ee bar. Purchase the highest quality supplements and herbal teas in store. Join up for one of our amazing work shops and talks.
Hello and welcome to our very first issue of Flo’s Mag! I can’t tell you how excited I am it’s complete and in your hands. Pop the kettle on and make your favourite brew... or fix yourself something stronger, why don’t you? Put your phone in another room and get lost in the pages awhile. It’s my aim to inform and inspire and the contents of these pages are a melting pot of talented local people; artists, designers, photographers, writers and business owners.
My background in publishing goes back to 2012 when I published my first wedding magazine. I’m just so inspired by creative, independent small businesses and I want to shout about them from the rooftops. As well as magazines my background is in events; wedding fairs and local markets... which were basically real life versions of the magazines i.e. a curated ‘place’ to promote lifestyle businesses to the local public.
For me, community is everything, and my people are those who are following their dreams and carving out their own little niche in the world.
There are so many different stages to putting a publication together; selling adverts (v important because let’s face it, print ain’t cheap!), planning editorial, photo shoots, assigning contributors, writing, designing, proofing, printing and distributing. My favourite parts are: finding new businesses I didn’t know about, accompanying the photographer on shoots, getting up early to write before my son wakes up, ripping open the boxes straight from the printer and sniffing the pages, distributing on foot with my trusty trolley, and getting together with all the advertisers and contributors for a launch event.
no mean feat getting something new off the ground so I’m very grateful to everyone involved. I would love your
and I’m very keen to hear from people wishing
Capturing Your Brand: The Power of a Professional Brand Shoot
By Natasha Jay
Every small business has a unique story, and a professional brand shoot is one of the most effective ways of bringing that story to life. When I first started out as a wedding photographer, I didn’t realise how powerful quality images for business could be. But as I grew more confident in promoting my business, I saw how relevant visuals could transform my brand across every touchpoint.
A brand shoot is more than just taking photos; it’s about capturing the essence of who you are and what your business represents. These images become the visual core of your brand, allowing you to convey your message, values, and personality consistently. Whether on social media, your website, or marketing materials, these photos help tell your story in a way that resonates with your audience.
Social media thrives on visual content. Regularly sharing fresh, professional images keeps your audience engaged and helps build a personal connection. On your website, these photos make a significant impact, particularly on the About page, where visitors seek to understand who you are. A well-shot portrait can convey warmth and trust, helping to turn visitors into customers.
Beyond digital platforms, your brand photos can enhance your email signature, marketing materials, and even printed items like brochures and business cards (or a feature in a local magazine). They add a personal touch that distinguishes your brand and reinforces your message wherever they’re seen.
Investing in a professional brand shoot not only enhances your brand’s visual appeal but also strengthens your connection with your audience. With the right photographer, the process can be empowering and enjoyable, leading to stronger relationships and better business outcomes. Embrace the opportunity, and watch as these powerful visuals take your brand to new heights.
Every small business has a unique story
The Dementia Care Hub
The Dementia Care Hub was founded by Dr Kellyn Lee in 2021. Kellyn is a BPS chartered psychologist and academic with over 10 years’ experience in applied ageing and dementia research. In her work with both people living with dementia and their families and friends, she witnessed the struggles people experience adjusting to the changes dementia brings. She strongly believes that whilst dementia is hard, getting support shouldn’t be. She established The Dementia Care Hub as a place in which evidence-based practices plus practical support help all people affected by dementia. She set up local meeting centres that provide psychological support, social groups, respite sessions and art groups. The aim is to reduce isolation and loneliness, remove stigma and enable people to live better for longer.
Founder - Dr Kellyn Lee BSc(Hons) MRes, PhD and CPsychol with a special interest in dementia care
SOCIAL GROUPS
The social groups meet each week. They provide warm and friendly expert support to people living with dementia and their carers. Enjoy conversation, a cuppa and homemade cake!
Portchester
Wednesdays 10:15 – 12:15
Portchester Community Centre
WELLBEING GROUPS
The wellbeing group is for people living with dementia, independent of their care partners. These groups provide cognitive stimulation and a regular break for carers. This is an important step for couples to gently begin the care pathway by introducing other people into their lives.
“The narrative of dementia has always been bleak, the words too often used by the media and the perception of society sets a scene of hopelessness and suffering.
We have decades of research evidencing what people need and yet people still receive a diagnosis and fall into a wilderness not knowing where to turn and what to do. Many people struggle along until it gets too much however, it doesn’t have to be this way.”
Fareham
Thursdays 10:00 – 14:00 Crofton Community Centre £70 per session (which includes a light lunch and all refreshments)
THE ART OF DEMENTIA CARE
This is a weekly group for carers, providing the opportunity to gain peer support and develop friendships.
Alongside there is an art class for people living with dementia. Research shows art has positive effects on emotional wellbeing for people living with dementia. Regardless of a person’s ability to paint or draw, studies show most people experience emotions such as joy and pride, they also developed friendships.
Portchester
Every 2nd and 4th Tuesdays 10:30 – 12:00
Portchester Community Centre
A free publication designed to inform and inspire.
AVAILABLE TO PICK UP FOR FREE WITHIN THE BOROUGHS OF GOSPORT AND FAREHAM FROM SELECT SHOPS, CAFES ETC
Issue 2 out Jan 2025 | Issue 3 out April 2025
Issue 4 out July 2025 | Issue 5 out Oct 2025
If you’re interested in advertising please email floscircle@gmail com to request a media pack Ad/editorial packages are available
Golden Drops of JoyReducing Inflammation with Emily
Do you suffer with any of these ailments?
Want Results from a Natural Product?
My Clients are finding phenomenal results!
If you want Relief then call Emily 07970491737
Scan to gain access to my app with further info!
My Business Journey
GUARDIANSHIP TRAINING AND CONSULTANCY
At the start of his career Dan Houghton spent three years as a special constable for Hampshire constabulary, where he saw some of the best and worst of mankind. There were enough aspects of the job to see him seeking an alternative career, but he loved helping people, de-escalating situations and protecting the public.
He moved into a security role alongside a full time career as a project manager. He provided professional security services for exclusive and private events such as weddings as well as large scale events such as theatre shows, music gigs and comicons. He worked on events, either as security or guest services, for celebrities such as Jack Whitehall, Gary Barlow and Aquaman Jason Momoa.
His approach to security was perhaps the opposite of what you’d expect. He dealt with potentially dangerous situations with kindness and compassion; spotting things and dealing with them quietly and efficiently before they escalated.
Within his project management role he streamlined processes for companies. This gave him a thorough understanding of business and business needs.
Redundancy from his full time role gave Dan the opportunity to think hard about his next career move. He considered how he could move forward using all his skills, experience and passion.
It was when renewing his security badge, in the classroom environment, he realised that’s where he belongs – teaching. He’s passionate about empowering people through training, and so Guardianship Training and Consultancy was born.
The company provides health and safety training; first aid, paediatric first aid and mental health awareness at work, as well as other areas of safety and first aid training.
Dan’s philosophy is to equip individuals and businesses with the right training and support to reduce stress and promote a safe, healthy work/home environment.
ARE YOU FIRST AID TRAINED?
Would you know what to do in an emergency situation? Are you equipped to help members of the public in need, or indeed your own family? Do your employees have the right, up-to-date training? Would you know what to do if an employee was having a tough time mentally/ emotionally?
Dan’s approach is tailored and holistic, he understands that every business and individual is different so he offers a FREE consultation advising businesses about the training they need. He’ll also be offering a date in the not too distant future for individuals to attend for both first aid and paediatric first aid, please keep an eye on his Instagram @guardianshiptraining for the dates.
guardianship-experts.co.uk
Local Artist
One for Sorrow, Two for Joy...
Helena Heath, a born and bred Gosport resident, opened One for Sorrow tattoo studio in the high street in 2019. It’s a collaborative space from which independent tattoo artists work. Her new baby is Two for Joy gallery which opened in spring 2024. It’s a space for Helena to display her own artwork as well as selected work of local artists and makers.
Helena’s own style is whimsical and quirky. While she doesn’t limit her work to one particular style, people often say they can spot her work through the colour palette which tends to contain pastel hues.
In the gallery you will not only find art for the walls, but art for the home in the form of pottery, ceramics and glass; one-off artefacts that compliment the art with their colour and texture. Helena sources these pieces herself and she has a particular love for midcentury style. She obviously has a magpie eye for treasures!
Photos: Natasha Jay Photography
Both Helena’s premises offer a space for local creatives, she’s clearly passionate about collaboration and providing opportunities.
Helena has wonderful ideas for themed exhibitions as well as an art exchange outside the shop where you’ll be able to put your own artwork in and take a piece for yourself.
We’re lucky enough to feature one of Helena’s pieces on our front cover. We love how she gives these birds (that are always around yet we barely notice) personality.
Photos: Natasha Jay Photography
Redefining Women’s Health and Fitness: It’s
Workout
More Than Just a
Let’s face it. Life’s a juggling act—between careers, family, and finding “me-time,” fitting in health and fitness can seem tough. As a mother of four and a business owner, I get it! But here’s the truth: taking care of our bodies and minds isn’t just about squeezing into a smaller dress size; it’s about living a fuller, more vibrant life, and it doesn’t have to be hard.
FOCUS ON FEELING GOOD
Forget dieting just to fit into jeans. Today, it’s about nourishing our bodies with foods that energise and satisfy. Instead of counting calories, focus on nutrients. Whole foods keep us strong and support long-term health, so let’s ditch the scale obsession and focus on what really counts—feeling great inside and out.
STRENGTH TRAINING: A MUST FOR US
Strength training is one of the best things we can do for our bodies, especially for peri and postmenopausal women. It builds lean muscle, boosts metabolism, and strengthens bones. Plus, it’s not just about physical power—it’s about feeling capable and confident. Embrace it, and watch your confidence soar.
MINDFULNESS: THE MISSING PIECE
Health isn’t just about the body—it’s about the mind, too. Mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation can make a huge difference. Even just five minutes a day can help us tune in, push when we need to, and rest when necessary.
COMMUNITY: STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
Supportive fitness communities are key. They provide motivation, connection, and a culture of empowerment. Sharing the journey makes it even more rewarding and it’s easier to stick to our goals when we’re not going it alone.
I love how we celebrate each other’s wins, lift each other up during tough times, and create a culture of empowerment. Not to mention making fantastic friendships. Fitness is personal, but sharing the journey makes it even more rewarding.
So, let’s keep redefining what it means to be fit, healthy, and strong—because when we take care of ourselves, we’re better for everyone around us.
Winter Warming Recipe
Farzana Walji Hooda is a qualified Personal Trainer, Holistic Wellness and Nutrition Coach, specialising in peri menopause and menopausal health. She runs her own boutique gym in Hillhead, Fareham and offers in person and online training as well as breakfast clubs and gorgeous retreats. She’s passionate about helping women fall in love with themselves again.
For more information and daily health tips visit www.fwhfitness.com and follow on Insta @Fwh_fitness
SPICED CARROT AND CUMIN SOUP
This is my all-time favourite soup, packed with flavour and high in protein. It’s super easy to make, which is a winner in my eyes!
INGREDIENTS:
Organic ghee or extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp cumin seeds
Pinch of chili flakes or to taste
500g chopped carrots (I use frozen for ease)
¾ cup dried red lentils, washed Vegetable stock to cover (around 1L)
METHOD:
In a dry pan, toast cumin seeds and chili flakes on medium heat until aromatic.
Add 1 tsp of ghee or oil, then stir in the carrots. Add red lentils and vegetable stock.
Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes until carrots and lentils are soft.
Blitz until smooth. Enjoy—it’s nourishing and delicious!
A Calming Sanctuary
The Yoga Shed is hidden away just off the bustling square in the village of Wickham.
The business was founded by husband and wife Steve and Vicky Manning in May 2017. It was a joint dream of theirs since they met to have a business in the health and wellness sector. Steve was a master personal trainer in Canada before they got together and Vicky taught a variety of fitness classes straight from college. Her degree was in Dance and Psychology and she later went back to teach on these very courses at South Downs College. She completed her Yoga Teacher training in 2014, and Pilates in 2020.
When they found the space it was a dilapidated shed, full of junk. They could both see the potential and they set about getting the necessary planning and equipment to make it something special. They wanted to create a fully-equipped wellness studio for selfemployed teachers to bring their clients. From opening many local teachers started using the space and their timetable grew organically.
They host over 30 regular weekly classes, plus monthly classes, workshops and retreats days. There’s something for everyone, from traditional classes, to pregnancy yoga, aerial yoga, breathwork classes, Cacao ceremonies, sound baths and much more.
During lockdown in 2020 a beautiful Mandala was added to make a stunning feature wall. This was designed and hand-painted by Lisa Gardener (who goes by the name of Iris Hill) and her partner Rob. “On a nice day, we can practice on the lawn.” Vicky says. “People often say how calming the space is and comment on the beautiful energy it holds.”
Every summer they support the Wickham Music Festival where they provide a yoga class each morning for festival-goers.
Steve and Vicky live in Knowle Village where their children go to school, and where Steve works full-time and runs various other enterprises. Vicky primarily teaches yoga and Pilates at The Yoga Shed, but also teaches Zumba, yoga and pilates at other locations around the area. She runs an annual Yoga Retreat in Southern Spain with fellow teacher Carla Williams.
They also host an annual Christmas Fayre where local businesses come together to sell eco, yoga and wellness products. This year the Christmas Fayre is on Saturday 30th November 11-3pm.
Visit the website to find their socials and to subscribe to the monthly newsletter which includes up-to-date details of what’s on www.innerspacestudios.co.uk
Flamin Good Crafts
Flamin Good Crafts is run by Sarah Cawte from her waterside studio at The Hardway in Gosport. She offers weekly drop-in craft groups where participants bring their own projects.
There is a strong emphasis on mindfulness within these sessions; a relaxing sanctuary in which to retreat and immerse yourself in craft and togetherness. They have great chats, lots of laughs and consume plenty of tea and biscuits. It’s a great way to be part of a community and meet new friends. To keep group members in check Sarah has a board of ‘craft club rules’ that includes ‘listening as well as talking’ and ‘kindness and understanding’. Perhaps this is telling of her background in education.
Photos by Natasha Jay Photography
Kind Words
“I really enjoy craft club, not only am I learning a new skill but also making new friends.
I live on my own and loneliness can be a problem. I really look forward to spending time with the lovely ladies in craft club.”
Flamin Good Crafts
Craft studio located at The Hardway in Gosport. Weekly craft club groups, crochet and sewing workshops.
For Sarah, Covid coincided with turning 50, she revaluated and decided she wanted to work for herself doing what she loves. She started hatching plans and she opened the studio in early 2023. The business has gone from strength to strength and she was nominated for an award at the Gosport Business Awards this year. Sarah also hosts crochet and sewing workshops, including 1-1 holiday clubs for kids and Christmas wreath workshops (that she starts in the summer to ensure they’re complete in time!)
Through her classes she aims to empower people to understand patterns, find the techniques that work for them, and continue at home. The skills she teaches are something of a dying art and Sarah is passionate about keeping them alive. She was taught by her grandparents, and often her students are inspired to learn as they have their parents’ sewing machines; beautiful, practical relics from the past.
Sarah is constantly raising money for chosen charities. She sells crafting kits online and publishes tutorials on her blog.
flamingoodcrafts.co.uk
Restaurants located in Whiteley Shopping Centre and Portsmouth City Centre - serving up fresh ‘Mexi-Cali’ delights in a relaxed boho beach setting.
www.bajamexicali.co.uk Independently owned Californian style restaurant and cocktail bar.
2 out Jan 2025
3 out April 2025
4 out July 2025 Issue 5 out Oct 2025
Ad/editorial packages are available email floscircle@gmail com to request a media pack.
ChocolateHeaven
The Crafty Chocolatier in Waterlooville offers hands-on chocolate making activities; masterclasses and parties for all ages.
The business is owned and operated by Kerry Wheatley who has been a chocolatier for nearly nine years. She trained at Callebaut and started The Crafty Chocolatier seven years ago. ‘The snug’ is where the magic happens; a dedicated studio in her garden complete with a disco ball and her own chocolate shop.
School holidays are dedicated to entertaining the children with captivating themed activities. Themes have included Prehistoric Extravaganza, Under the Sea and Out of this World (space).
Kerry gets her theme ideas from the seasons or from what’s topical, for example she hosted The Chocolate Olympics this year. She makes sure the themes are unisex and work for all ages. “The themes are sometimes easy to decide” says Kerry “relaying it into chocolate is the hard part!”
During the week Kerry takes the chocolate factory on the road to schools, either as part of the curriculum, or as a treat. Students learn where chocolate comes from, the process behind it, they do some mindful chocolate
tasting, help temper the chocolate, create their own branding and make a chocolate pizza to take home. She also works with special needs organisations, charities, WI groups and guides/scouts.
Kerry loves meeting new people when she’s teaching. “Everyone is happy to be around chocolate” she explains “I love being creative and going to new venues, no two days are the same”.
Kerry also sells her chocolate online and takes bespoke commissions.
When Kerry’s not immersed in chocolate she likes to go for long walks with her dog, practice yoga, potter in the garden and try new recipes. She enjoys camping in her vintage van and is happiest at the coast or in the forest. She also enjoys interior design “I love statement colours” she says “we have just put down a leopard print carpet in the hallway!”
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Children’s Halloween activities 28th October-1st November (Harry Potter inspired).
Children’s Christmas and New Year activities are TBC at time of going to print.
To keep up-to-date with what’s planned visit the events section on the website and sign up to the newsletter.
www.thecraftychocolatier.co.uk
To enquire about private parties and community visits email Kerry@thecraftychocolatier.co.uk
Your ultimate sanctuary for luxurious, natural skincare. Potent, clean beauty, with every ingredient sourced responsibility.
golynatural.co.uk
Bluebell Beauty
Oriflame’s products include skincare, fragrances, shower gels, handbags, accessories and more.
Check out socials and shop by visiting: linktr.ee/moniquegarner or by scanning the below QR code Products available for men, women and children.
Tracy Evans is an artist and designer who lives with her partner Steve in a flat at Royal Clarence Yard in Gosport.
Her design studio, Port & Lemon, offers prints, cards, home wares and gifts. The designs are bold and graphic complete with cheeky strap lines. She also runs workshops.
www.portandlemon.com
Photos by Natasha Jay Photography
“Much of the artwork is by Southampton-based artist Jonny Hannah.”
“We have a Dockyard Explorer ticket which includes the waterbus.”
“Our mismatched dining chairs were sourced on Ebay and marketplace.”
“We love the location, it’s a 20 minute walk to the ferry so we can go across to Gunwharf and get the train to London.”
“We love midcentury furniture.”
“We definitely believe more is more. Space is to be filled...”
Port
and Lemon Interior Feature
“We trot across the bridge to our local, The Powder Monkey Taphouse.”
“The tone of blue on the lounge wall is what we see in the water outside, we wanted to bring the outside in as much as possible.”
“It was a magnolia box when we moved in but we had a vision for what we could do.”
Interior Feature
“We’ve loved being able to put our own stamp on the flat. Our home is an extension of our personalities and a mix of us both.”
Soundtrack to my Day
It’s Never Been Better – The Goa Express
Confrontation Camp – The Soundtrack of our Lives
Shoot Your Gun – 22-20s
Pressure Drop – Toots & the Maytals
Hitsville U.K. – The Clash
So Here We Are – Bloc Party
Race For The Prize – The Flaming Lips
Nothing To Be Done – Bill Ryder-Jones
Dreams – Willie J Healey
Put You In Your Place – The Sunshine Underground
Seaside – The Ordinary Boys
Do Nothing – The Specials, Rico Rodriguez, The Ice
Rink String Sound
Young Americans – David Bowie
Boy From School – Hot Chip
www.lowtidecoffeeco.uk
“Songs that are playing when I’m roasting coffee, also the sort of music that will be played if I get my own venue to serve coffee.”
James Casey – Lowtide Coffee
Scan QR code for Spotify playlist
Trains to Brazil – Guillemots
I’m Not Going To Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You – Black Kids
All My Friends – LCD Soundsystem
God Gave Me Feet For Dancing – Ezra Collective feat Yazmin Lacey
Baja Mexicali at Whiteley was opened by three friends who met at Portsmouth uni. The concept was inspired by trips to southern California which is a melting pot of both Mexican and American cuisines. The owners felt this style of food was underrepresented in the UK and they wanted to offer a fresher, more modern alternative to the traditional Tex-Mex we associate with Mexican cuisine.
The restaurant interior has boho beach vibes with lots of space, natural wood, colourful Aztec cushions and textured artefacts on the walls.
The ‘Mexi-Cali’ or ‘Cali-Mex’ menu consists of small plates to share ‘Picar’ as well as tacos, burritos and quesadilla. We love the sound of the Pescado Tacos – soft corn tacos with battered white fish (or panko avocado) with slaw, chipotle crema, guacamole and salsa fresco.
The Asada Fries sound pretty banging too – seasoned fries loaded with cheese, guacamole, lime crema and salsa fresco. Plus your choice of topping, for example chorizo and Chimichurri.
The dessert menu includes sticky plantain, and Apple Chimichangas which are deep fried with cinnamon, baby burritos and served with coconut ice cream.
The vast drinks menu includes liqueurs and spirits like Tequila, Pisco and Mezcal. The cocktail list includes classic Margaritas, Pisco Sours and Mexican Mules. They also cater for non-drinkers with mocktails, for example Mango Mule and Sour Apple. Monday-Thursday selected cocktails are two for £12.95.
Encouraged by the success of the Whiteley branch they’ve since opened a Portsmouth branch too. Baja is the sister restaurant to the popular Maya in Southsea which is a contemporary Latin American restaurant.
www.bajamexicali.co.uk
A Day in the Life...
GOOD LIFE SORTED HELPER
By Nicky Main
After I walk my dog at Portsdown Hill I head to Mrs D’s flat at Port Solent (which has an amazing view of the moorings) and let myself in. “Morning!” I call and head into the lounge to see how she’s doing. We’ll have a chat about the news headlines and I’ll make her a cup of tea before pottering around, tidying, putting washing in and maybe putting her shopping order away. Mrs D is 88, she suffers with her health and is housebound. She has family around but she doesn’t want to rely on them too much for day-to-day things like cleaning and preparing meals.
“I look forward to the ladies coming” says Mrs D “they are great company and they keep on top of everything for me in the flat. Their visits break up my day, without them I’d be quite lonely. They have become friends and I know they’re there if I need anything”.
Before I leave I prepare her lunch and a dessert. She’s a lovely lady and she’s very grateful for my visits.
I then head to Fareham to Mrs B. I ring the bell and let myself in “hellooooo”. She’s there in the kitchen,
spoon poised, “coffee?” Yes please Mrs B! We sit in the conservatory overlooking her beautiful garden and have a chat and a catch up. My visits to Mrs B are purely for companionship so I go with the flow and do whatever she wants; sometimes that’s doing bits in the garden, going shopping or taking her to appointments. Mrs B sadly lost her beloved husband 18 months ago and has had to adapt to life without him.
“I am very happy with the ladies I have coming to see me” says Mrs B “they’ve helped me so much. Just them being here is nice, they’re great company.”
It has been an absolute privilege getting to know Mrs B, helping her, hearing about her family, her late husband, and their wonderful life together.
It’s then time to get home to relieve the dog before my yoga class!
I love working for Good Life Sorted. They’re a social enterprise and they provide lots of support and training (for example dementia awareness). You can chose your own hours and set your own hourly rate.
If you or a family member are interested in having a regular helper you can arrange a FREE first visit. There are also opportunities to become a self employed helper and experience the rewarding work for yourself.
goodlifesorted.com
Happy Kids
We all need to keep our kids entertained. They’re restless little things! Whether it’s for a weekend treat, to pass the time in half term or for a birthday party, we’ve got some local ideas for you...
Enigmatic Theatre
The Crafty ChocolatierChocolate-themed kids parties and workshops take place in ‘the snug’ in Waterlooville. www.thecraftychocolatier.co.uk
Sweet Peas Play Cafe
Award-winning role play cafe in Fareham. Play areas include a shop, cafe, bakers, doctors, opticians, construction site and stage complete with wardrobe and makeup.
A dynamic theatre company based in Gosport. They can create exciting, bespoke, interactive experiences for kid’s parties on request. www.facebook.com/EnigmaticTheatre
Fairytale Boutique
Themed pamper parties in Fareham. Various packages including coloured hair braids, face bling, mini-manis, photo backdrops, sweet cart etc. www.facebook.com/ thefairytaleboutiquefareham
sweetpeasplaycafe.co.uk
Pitt Street Skate Park
An undercover skate park in Portsmouth offering family sessions, roller discos (including wheeled discos and roller tots) and venue hire for parties. pittstskatepark.com
Laser Squad
Experience laser tag action in the heart of the forest. They have bases at Queen Elizabeth Country Park near Petersfield and Royal Victoria Country Park in Southampton.
www.lasersquad.co.uk
Little Wilds
Imaginative themed all-weather outdoor stay and play for under 5’s. Based at River Hamble Country Park. bookwhen.com/littlewilds
Made by Me
Paint your own pottery experiences in Fareham. While away the hours creating your own works of art. A great idea for parties.
www.madebymestudio.co.uk
Player Ready
VR gaming sessions, free-roam VR arena, VR escape rooms. Portsmouth-based. Ideal for private party experiences. player-ready.co.uk/portsmouth
Pop up Spray Studios
Pop-up spray painting sessions to encourage creative freedom. Pre-booked sessions as well as private parties on request.
www.instagram.com/popupspraystudios
Small Joys. Big Impact
I’m going to let you in on a little secret…I haven’t always been grateful. A kind person who said thank you and had an appreciation for things, yes. Noticing each and every small joy inducing moment? No…not me. I was quite happy on the ‘more’ train. Maybe you know it? More stuff, more things, more experiences, more, more, more! It wasn’t until a huge, griefy plot twist encouraged me to pay attention to what I did have, rather than what was missing that I really started to understand what it means to be grateful.
Sometimes we get so caught up in the big moments and all the stuff we think we need, we forget to see the joy around us. It can be small and unassuming, often hiding in the mundane moments of our lives…coffee in your favourite cup, birdsong, nature on your morning walk, catching a sunset or a kind act from a stranger. There is goodness all around us if we choose to see it and gratitude is a torch that helps shine a light on these things so we see them more clearly.
Charla Grant is a Founder + Writer who currently lives in Gosport and combines her passion for gratitude, community and creativity through exhibitions, events and workshops. Learn more @thegratefulartsclub
One of the most useful things I’ve learnt about gratitude is the power in these small joys, because when we notice them, we can be more present in those moments and when times get tough maybe add a few more in. They can have a calming effect and most importantly remind us that we don’t need to wait for the big stuff, joy is all around us! They are particularly useful when the seasons change, things grow a little darker and we need a few extra tools to keep our minds in the best possible place ahead of the Winter months.
Small Joys: A quick guide… see them, feel them, add them and don’t forget to thank them.
Charla
P.S The flower photo was taken outside our family home just after we lost our dad. It reminded me that even in all the sadness there can be joy if you choose to see it.
8. 9. 10.
Shop Local for Christmas
We know it can be tempting to buy online with one click and get it delivered to your door in super-quick time, but why not be a little more mindful and make it your mission to shop local this Christmas? Supporting small, independent, local creatives will fill you (and them) with a warm fuzzy festive glow.
Here are some ideas to get those gifting juices flowing...
Little Loves Apparel
Raising eco-conscious kids one sustainable outfit at a time. Embracing style that’s gentle on the planet and made to last.
littlelovesapparel.com
Low Tide Coffee Co
Let’s face it, a good cup of coffee is important. Get your beans and brewing paraphernalia from LowTide who are based in Portchester and seriously know their stuff.
www.lowtidecoffeeco.uk
The Frustrated Creative
This print is taken from an original piece which was hand drawn, hand painted, and gilded with gold leaf. It’s a limited edition run, available in three sizes. Other products available.
www.thefrustratedcreative. co.uk
Shortees
Sustainable, recycled, organic and ethical clothing. Designed for watersportlovers, beach dwellers and gym bunnies.
shoretees.co.uk
Seaside Jungle
Shop for bespoke plant creations, terrarium kits and gift vouchers. Gift vouchers can be used for their terrarium workshops.
www.theseasidejungle. co.uk
Pitt Street Skate Park
Check out the merch from the undercover skatepark project in Portsmouth. pittstskatepark.com/shop
Goly Natural
Give the gift of beautiful calm skin this Christmas!
Natural organic skincare handmade using pure ingredients. Various products available including gift packs.
www.golynatural.co.uk
Spott & Herbert
Super-cosy hand-printed tees and sweatshirts for all your lounging needs. Also kids clothes, beanies, jewellery and cards.
spottandherbert.bigcartel. com
Smell the Roses
Feel the flower magic with a bespoke, decadent seasonal creation. Titchfield-based flower queen Lula Flack also offers workshops and caters for weddings.
www.smelltherosesuk.com
Marzilicious
Quite simply edible works of art. Buy the gift of almondy goodness for the marzi-fan in your life.
www.marzilicious.co.uk
West Street Alehouse
Purchasing a gift pack for a beer connoisseur is a great excuse to visit West Street Alehouse in Fareham. Why not have a pint while you’re there?!
www.facebook.com/ WSAlehouseFareham
Island Hampers
Who doesn’t love a hamper as a gift? All the products are sourced locally from small businesses and creatives in Portsmouth and surrounding areas.
islandhampers.co.uk
NATASHA JAY PHOTOGRAPHY
www.natashajay.co.uk | @branding_by_natashajay
Personal Brand Photography for Creative Business Owners
W O R K W I T H M E !
I’m Helen, I’m the editor of Flo’s Mag and I’m available for freelance projects.
If it involves getting your message across through words and images - blog posts, web content, social posts, marketing materialI’m your girl.
flosmag@gmail.com
Temperance Health
Temperance Health opened this year on Gosport High Street. The space offers locals not only a gorgeous cafe, but the opportunity to learn more about natural herbal remedies and health supplements.
Wendy Budd’s herbal apothecary on Albert Road in Southsea has been there for 13 years, and she’s well known locally for her knowledge and expertise in the field of herbal medicine. People go to her for consultations and she gives them herbal prescriptions which are bespoke depending on their individual ailments. She takes a completely holistic approach, looking at diet, lifestyle, medical history, family history etc.
Within the new space in Gosport you will find a welcoming cafe offering a range of speciality herbal teas, all loose leaf and organic (and don’t worry, they do ‘normal’ tea too!). Their coffee is from Broadway Coffee Roasters in Portsmouth and the cake is sugar-free, gluten-free, grain-free (and some is dairy-free). Wendy also makes and sells her own line of Kombucha as well as a vast range of health supplements.
The herbal dispensary boasts an impressive display of potions and there are private consultation rooms out the back.
“It’s an honour to play a small part in the training of our new herbalists”
Wendy found the new premises in Gosport completely by chance. One of the big selling points was the garden which offers an amazing, peaceful space you wouldn’t expect on the high street. Her vision is to create a community space; a medicinal garden where she can teach outside and use herbs grown on the premises for workshops.
Not only has Wendy opened a second premises, she’s relocated from Southsea to Gosport as the new shop comes with an upstairs flat. She’s loving life in Gosport so far “it feels cleaner and clearer” she says and she’s enjoyed finding new places to walk her dog like at the Ramparts, Fort Gilkicker and along the sea wall near Haslar Hospital.
At the moment you are able to book a completely free consultation at Temperance Health on a Sunday or Monday. All you will pay for is the medicine. It’s with a second or third year herbal medicine student and overseen by Wendy Budd herself.
“It’s an honour to play a small part in the training of our new herbalists” says Wendy who gets very emotional about her vocation as a medical herbalist. “It’s such an old profession” she explains “we are walking the path of ancestral herbalists dating back thousands and thousands of years.”
25 High Street, Gosport. www.facebook.com/temperance.health
inspiredThreethingsI’m to do having readFlo’sMag issue one
I commit to doing them before issue two comes out in January 2025
DIY Natural Skincare
Coffee Scrub with Almond
Ingredients:
½ cup ground coffee
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup almond oil
Method:
1) Mix all ingredients together.
2) Apply to damp skin and gently scrub to exfoliate.
3) Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Ingredients:
1 cup ground oats
½ cup baking soda
A few drops of essential oil (optional)
Method:
1) Combine oats and baking soda.
2) Add a few drops of essential oil if desired.
3) Pour the mixture into a warm bath and stir to dissolve.
4) Soak for 15-20 minutes to soothe and soften skin.
These wonderful ideas, using store cupboard ingredients, were provided by Portsmouth-based Goly Natural. Founder Stef is passionate about natural skincare, her products are available to buy online and she has more ‘create your own’ ideas in her e-booklet. Use the QR code to buy for £3.99.
