Get it Magazine February 2019

February 2019

ON THE GOLD COAST

In the badlands of The fight for ethical fashion hits the Gold Coast

fashion...

Unlocking the

secret diary: confessions of a male escort and a former Madam

Unleash

your inner tease with

Dita Von Teese

The courses of

true love

Kiss me, you fool x

DON’T

The

UP T

2.02 C

PrIN CU

‘GIa CertIfIed.

$16

SUGGeSted

ThE lA

Diamond I Jewellery Ma

LEAVE IT TO Cupid...

2 Carat Radiant Cut SI Clarity GIA Certified Fantastic value, big look Only $11,490

70 Pt Rounds SI-D Colour GIA Certified From $3,500

1 Carat Pear Shape D-F Colours GIA Certified From $5,500

e BIG Diamond Specialists Choose from our extensive diamond range in store or we have access to 1,000’s of diamonds worldwide to guarantee you the best prices.

We will always beat internet prices*

TO 70% OFF not one day... EVERY day

Carat

NCeSS Ut

. G’ IN COlOUr SI1

6,000

d retaIl $24,700

2.01 Carat

CUSHION CUt

GIa CertIfIed ‘d’ IN COlOUr SI1

*For same spec stones

So think of CTJ first when you make that important decision

2.70 Carat

rOUNd BrIllIaNt CUt

$17,999 $18,500 CTJ WHOLESALE DIAMONDS AND JEWELLERY SUGGeSted retaIl $27,500

SUGGeSted retaIl $29,000

ATEsT rAngE of BrAnD nEW rIng DEsIgns hAvE jusT ArrIvED. All AT WholEsAlE prIcEs. • Australia’s largest wholesale diamond dealer direct to the public Diamond Importers • Established 15 years • Designers and workshop on site

Jewellery Manufacturers

CTJ WHOLESALE DIAMONDS AND JEWELLERY Importers 0 7 55 383 988 | 37 Upton Street Bundall www.ctj .com.au e: greg@ctj.com.au anufacturers

07 5538 3988 | 37 Upton Street Bundall www.ctj.com.au e: greg@ctj.com.au Find us on Facebook

Images are indicative only

Red hot prices on diamonds for all of February

CONTENTS F E AT U R E S

12 18 20 22 26 34

Get Teesed this Valentine's Day! Dita Von Teese's cult lingerie line hits Australian shores

In the badlands of fashion Ghosted Shakespeare and Instagrandstanding Unlocking the secret diary Fashion Loved-up

SUPER D , S Y A LAST D P February 2019

REGULARS

8 9 11 30 32 36 38 39 40 41 42 46 47

What's on Giveaways Get thinking Get stylish Get it beauty Health Dating Business Success Money Recipes Local profile Get scene

All stock to clear!

D Ca on H t ’t f ap hy o py ’s rg Ta $50 et bl e

T U O S S I O N’ T M

We moved to: Ground Floor, Scarborough Street entrance Australia Fair Shopping Centre, 42 Marine Parade 5532 9176 Southport Open Monday to Saturday. Easy parking in Australia Fair

4

shoetique.com.au Shoetique Southport

LETTER FROM

Kathleen Editor

ebruary, the month of love, always has me reflecting on relationships and the things in life I’m most passionate about.

Of course, there’s Get it, a good Sauvignon Blanc, equality and a truly fabulous handbag (but that’s another level of passion). Though, when it comes to relationships, we know there’s a whole different dynamic and I’ve learnt recently that, just like my feelings for my Kate Spade clutch, true love never fades.

Recently, I had the pleasure of being reacquainted with two old friends – one from my childhood and one from my high school days (both of whom I hadn’t seen in years).

We studied in different parts of the globe, have different careers and a whole lifetime of experiences crammed into the time we spent apart.

You’d think that would make us completely unrecognisable to each other: acquaintances for the longest time yet complete strangers. However, this wasn’t the case at all. Showing my friends our beautiful Gold Coast, watching the waves with a crisp glass of wine and laughing over shared jokes was like no time had passed.

Just like the fortuitous occasion of a successful swipe on Tinder, finding these types of passions and relationships can take time, patience and some sheer dumb luck. It’s all about putting yourself out there, taking time to do what makes you happy and trying new things.

So dear Get it girls, whether you are celebrating the month of love with your girlfriends on Galentine's Day or your significant other on Valentine’s Day, remember to take a moment to invest in what truly sets your soul on fire. Fall in love with your career again with some help from our business section, take pleasure in creating delicious meals from our recipe pages or regain a zest for life with some inspiring stories from our feature pages this month.

We hope you love this issue as much as we do!

Kathleen Loxton Publishers Indemnity: Those who make advertising placements and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to Get it Magazine, undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach of confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the Trade Practices Act or other laws, regulations or statutes.

Further to the above mentioned these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgements. In this magazine we have listed a range of products, prices and stores in across Australia and online.

Although prices are correct at the time of printing, they are indicative only as prices and stock may vary from store to store. All prices were provided to Get it Magazine by relevant retailers and suppliers. We advise you to contact the relevant retailers for further information about price and availability. Get it Magazine does not accept any responsibility for price variations, availability or quality of products.

5

Ambrosia is a casual dining experience within the stunning Mediterranean setting of Links Hope Island Golf Club.

Dine in our relaxed and welcoming café around our fountain or enjoy a cocktail on the terrace overlooking our championship golf course, whilst feasting on dishes designed to be enjoyed among friends.

OPENING SPECIALS*

Sunday Breakfast Club - only $15* Select from: Eggs Benedict or Avocado Smash or Bacon & Eggs on sourdough toast with tomato relish Served with an organic espresso or juice.

4 Tapas and a bottle of Signature Links wine for $50 Opening Times: Daily from 6am – 6pm

Call to enquire: 07 5530 9051 or visit www.linkshopeisland.com.au *Terms & Conditions apply.

Springfield Drive, Hope Island, QLD 4212 www.linkshopeisland.com.au

February 2019

THE GET IT GIRLS LEANNE HART

KATHLEEN LOXTON

The Get it girls spill the tea on their dream Valentine's Day date

AIMI HART

HAYLEY BOGAARD

SHEREE PETERU

SARAH BLINCO

PUBLISHER

EDITOR

ART DIRECTOR

DIGITAL MARKETING

TRAVEL EDITOR

ADVERTISING

leanne@getit-magazine.com.au

editor@getit-magazine.com.au

aimi@getit-magazine.com.au

admin@getit-magazine.com.au

travel@getit-magazine.com.au

hello@getit-magazine.com.au

"Valentine's Day is not about flowers or chocolates, for me it’s about family and good friends and, of course, bubbles."

"With the guy, a walk under city lights ending with drinks at my favourite quaint pub. If it's a Galentine's Day with the girls, champagne, manicures and a movie."

"A dinner date at home with hubby! A kilo of king prawns and our fave bottle of Piper-Heidsieck champers and cool tunes, out the back with beautiful views of the Valley in the Hinterland - perfecto!"

"He picks me up on his Harley, which complements my black leather jacket perfectly. Japanese for dinner, espresso martinis for dessert and when we get home, I show him all the red lace underneath my dress…"

"Cocktails with a view in a sexy sky-bar, set to a soundtrack of smooth house music. (And plane tickets to a surprise destination!)"

"It’s always Valentine’s Day for my partner and I! We are both so busy and enjoy a home cooked meal at the end of the day, with our beloved pup Mikey; he is the perfect Valentine’s for me."

CONTRIBUTORS Les McGuire | Nicola George | Sarah Blinco | Karen Gately | Susie McWatt Forbes | Linda Prescott | Hayley Bogaard

SALES ENQUIRIES PRINTING

sales@getit-magazine.com.au | 0414 946 361

Fast Proof Press, Nerang, Qld

GET IT MAGAZINE

PO Box 7602, GCMC QLD 9726

P: 1300 858 932 E: info@getit-magazine.com.au W:getitmagazine.com.au

February 2019

6

GET SOCIAL

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES info@getit-magazine.com.au

get.it.mag @getitmag

Bundall’s newest design destination Is NOW OPEN

“JUST ONE PIECE CAN TRANSFORM A ROOM” The newest Furniture Emporium.

Fabulous ranges including exclusive one off pieces to compliment your style.

Interior design and home styling service available.

2 Large showrooms in the one location 112 Bundall Road, Bundall P 5646 9240 E info@lyntonandforrester.com.au W lyntonandforrester.com.au 7 February 2019

10 Mar

WHAT'S ON

Send your event to editor@getit-magazine.com.au

3-24 Feb

FEBRUARY

8 Feb

1 Mar

SEASIDE SOUNDS KIRRA 2019 3 FEB – 24 FEB Held at one of the Gold Coast’s finest beach side locations, Seaside Sounds Kirra returns this summer for five consecutive Sunday afternoons, with free live music on the iconic Kirra foreshore.

Pack your blanket for a food truck picnic and enjoy beats by the beach in the cool ocean breeze. Register your interest at facebook.com/ events/514800765696830 EUROVISION: AUSTRALIA DECIDES 8 FEB Australia will compete in the Eurovision Song Contest for the fifth consecutive year in 2019 and, for the first time, broadcaster SBS is letting the Australian public help decide who our representative will be.

Three ticketed shows will take place at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre on 8 and 9 February 2019, with the Live TV Final broadcast exclusively on SBS on Saturday 9 February 2019. Tickets available at eurovisionaustralia.tv

MARCH WOMEN IN TOURISM MAR 1 You are invited to join us at the picturesque Coolibah Downs Private Estate on Friday, March 1 for our next networking event. Set amongst ten acres of stunning scenery, guests will enjoy a morning of networking, a delicious breakfast and words of wisdom from a celebrity speaker. For more information or to register, please visit womenintourism.org.au CIRCUS MUSIC FESTIVAL MAR 10 A new, annual boutique music festival has arrived on the 2019 calendar from the creator of Future Music Festival and Summafieldayze. Circus Paradise will deliver all spectrums of quality electronic dance and live music featuring a carefully selected line up of world-class local and international artists performing across four purpose-built stages. Check out the line-up and get tickets at circusparadise.com

The Drowning Prevention and Learn to Swim Experts • 25 HEATED Indoor Pool • Specialist Learn to Swim Babies to Adults • Stroke Correction • Swim Squads • Lap Swimming, Adult Aqua & Fitness Squads • FREE Baby Program*

February 2019

8

Call us for our FREE Trial and FREE Swimming Assessment at your closest centre!

Open 6 days - ALL Year

Pacific Pines - 55294343 Benowa - 55971311 Sunnybank – 33233188 superfish.com.au

GET IT I GIVEAWAYS

giveaways • fashion • accessories

TAKE THE PLUNGE!

Enjoy a premium shopping experience!

Adorne Banana Blue Chocolat Lula Soul

For your chance to WIN, head to Get it's Facebook page: facebook.com/get.it.mag

Matisse Monari N.Y.D.J. Obi

Olsen Purolino Ruby YaYa Zaket & Plover

ake the plunge with your love this Valentine’s Day! Looking for something out of the ordinary to do for your next date? Look no further than the unique (and thrilling) Virtual Reality skydiving experience at iFLY right here on the Gold Coast…

The iFLY VR flight experience package includes: l Comprehensive pre-flight briefing. l Hire of all flying gear (flight suit, helmet, goggles, ear plugs) l One-on-one instruction from iFLY’s instructors. l A minimum of 2 x 50 second indoor skydiving flights (50 seconds is the equivalent of a free fall skydive from 14,000 feet!) l A personalized flight certificate. l Approximately 1 hour, 45 minutes (end to end) of unforgettable fun l 2 training flights l 1 VR location flight

OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5.00pm Saturday 9.00am to 3.00pm

* VR flight experiences are for age 8 + only

We’re giving one lucky reader the chance to win an iFLY VR flight experience package voucher for two people valued at $298. Talk about a Valentine’s Day date for the books! To enter visit our Facebook page: fb.com/getitmag and see the pinned post.

For more information visit: ifly.com.au

Sundays and public holidays closed.

13 Grice Avenue, Paradise Point mirraboutique.com.au Phone 5564 2676 9

February 2019

@getitmag 1,352 posts 2,869 followers 1,315 following A Gold Coast woman's bible on where to shop, eat, drink and play!

FASHION | BUSINESS | LIFESTYLE | REAL TALK The February issue is out now! #getitmag #goldcoast

getit-magazine.com.au/online-magazines | Facebook @get.it.mag February 2019

10

GET IT I GET THINKING

A Valentine's Day TRAGEDY — with Nicola George —

Valentine’s Day

ek it’s the season of love, lust and over-priced couple dinner packages.

February 14 will either bring joy to your heart or a chill down your spine, but love it or hate it… it will inevitably happen.

I still remember my first Valentine’s Day flower, which was way back in the olden days when kids didn’t have phones, computers or fashion sense and we used books called encyclopaedias to learn about the world instead of Google.

I was 13 and just learning about crushes and boys (namely one Billy K who was tall, handsome and shy). My friends and I were approaching our first Valentine’s Day as teenagers and we were so excited. I’m not sure why, because we weren’t allowed to have boyfriends and even if we did, we were babies – what exactly would we do on our date? Walk to our closest McDonalds and get a 20-cent ice-cream cone? Fifty Shades of Grey hadn’t been invented yet! Regardless, our school was selling a single carnation for $1 as a fundraiser, to be delivered around lunch. And they would be anonymous - the thrill!

Valentine’s Day morning dawned a bright and sunny one, and the school was buzzing with anticipation. We sailed through the first half of the day and when the lunch bell rang my friends and I bolted to our usual lunch spot and waited for the flowers to RAIN down.

We waited and waited but no carnations arrived, and my heart was beginning to sink. Where was mine? I reapplied my lip-gloss, fixed my skirt and sighed. I remember that sigh – it was a ‘power to women’ sigh. And with five minutes left of our lunch hour, I spied the last of the flower deliveries coming our way and - you guessed it - one was mine! Billy loved me and wanted to marry me, I was on cloud five (back then only adults had cloud nine). I had my little petals of glory! And I caressed that little thing all afternoon, even displaying it proudly on my desk for all the world to see that I, Nicola George, got myself a lover and I couldn’t wait to see Billy to thank him!

Later that day, I was planning our honeymoon in maths class when I happened to spy my future Mister walking past our classroom hand in hand with a girl!! And in her hand was a carnation. A what?! My heart sank. He didn’t? He couldn’t? And in a blink of an eye, my wedding plans crashed to the ground and I used the carnation as a wrapper for my chewy before tossing it out. That showed him what I thought of his stupid flower.

How dare he cheat on me!

My bestie saw what I did, and she was horrified.You see, I was singularly stupid and doubly humiliated that day. It turned out that she had sent me the flower as a token of friendship. I felt like the Queen of Idiots! But what about Billy K you ask? He didn’t even know my name; well he eventually learnt it a month later when he served my friend and I at McDonalds when we were getting our 20-cent ice-cream cones, but that’s another story.

Many years later, I still remember that little lesson in what love encompasses. Valentine’s Day is not just for lovers, it’s for anyone who loves. So, book that overpriced dinner package and celebrate that love, with your partner, with your family or with your friends; either which way, celebrate it.

on the water!

Just $ PP

79

3 course set menu

delicious options to choose from

Live music: Beau & Arrow band 46E The Promenade, Sanctuary Cove P 07 5577 9712 info@blackangusbarandgrill.com.au blackangusbarandgrill.com.au

11

February 2019

GET IT I FEATURE

Hidden amongst the Hinterland of the Gold Coast there is a battle brewing, whose cause has been supported by the Duchess of Sussex and locals alike. Get it’s Kathleen Loxton is at the frontline reporting on Australia's fight for ethically and environmentally produced fashion enim, like a great pair of jeans, is a ladies’ best friend and a comfort piece we reach for in time of strife. It’s something every woman has in her closet, and yet how we choose to purchase this garment has impact far beyond our daily style. It affects the lives behind every stitch and the environment in which it’s created.

With fast fashion increasingly available to us, and designer brand’s long-held production secrets revealed, the fashion industry’s darker side is being illuminated by savvy consumers and conscious fashion lovers. Over the last few years, headlines have been plastered with the likes of: factory fires caused by malpractice in developing areas, clothing brands burning unused stock and workers getting unjust pay – or not getting paid at all. Human trafficking and modern-day slavery has also been infiltrating the world of fashion, causing a chain of poverty with those in it trapped in a cycle of abuse with little hope of breaking free and finding opportunities for a better life.

It doesn’t just impact the international market either, and here in Australia we have a responsibility to play our part too. In fact, SBS reported last year,“Less than 10 per cent of Australian fashion brands scored an A or A+ on an annual report into ethical fashion production around the world.”

That’s why the drive to take this fight from our sun-kissed shores and beyond is so strong for founder James Bartle and his team at Outland Denim.

James noted,“People are passionate about their denims and loyal to their favourite denim labels.The universal, egalitarian appeal of denim speaks to our core as a humanitarian brand seeking to create lasting social change for vulnerable peoples, more particularly young women.”

The pivotal moment behind this core value was James’ first encounter with the very real 150-billion-dollar business of illicit trade in human beings. After watching the 2008 film Taken, James fortuitously met with an NGO doing work in the field, he had the opportunity to travel to Asia to see firsthand what it was like on the ground, and how human traffickers prey on vulnerable young girls.

After a research period, James learnt that once a girl has been rescued and integrated into her February 2019

In the

Badlands

of

family or community, a sustainable career path is vital for securing her future. It was from here that the foundations of Outland Denim were placed as an avenue for training, employment, and career progression for women who have experienced, or are at risk of experiencing, sex trafficking and other social injustices.

“For our seamstresses and their communities, the impact of purchasing a pair of Outland Denim jeans is not a flash in the pan, but a contribution to true generational social change.

Along the way we have learnt that denim is not only one of the most challenging segments of the fashion industry to break in to, but also one of their dirtiest. So, while we set out to create something 100% socially sustainable, we now see the opportunity and our responsibility to help clean up the denim industry too” said James.

It was obvious in his tone how passionate James is about this cause and the brand, in particular when he recalled seeing Reasmey*, a tailor at Outland Denim who has a significant physical disability:‘’What this job means to her, how our team has rallied around her and supported her, and how she has become one of our best seamstresses...that is what does it for me.That is what keeps me going.’’

This ethical responsibility of consumers to make the right purchasing choices spans global consideration and calls for reflection on what is happening in our own backyard. Last year the ABC reported on the findings of the Australian Human Rights Law Centre, which stated of the approximately 25 million slaves

“

Jeans aren't a throw-away item (or, they shouldn’t be), but something you keep for years if they're of a good quality and the right fit. They wear with you.

12

”

Images. and Getty Cameron Spenser

outlanddenim.com.au

Th e Duk e an d Duche ss

of Su ss ex

James Bartle and his team at Outland Denim

worldwide, around 4,300 modern slaves live in Australia.The Sydney Morning Herald reported around the same time that the global endemic crosses all fields, in particularly: sex work, fishing, construction, hospitality and textiles.

James is determined the future of fashion is bright though, explaining:“This is the direction people are insisting the fashion industry move towards. According to the Business of Fashion’s 2018 State of Fashion report, millennials as a generation are particularly interested in more sustainable solutions when it comes to their clothing, with 66 percent of global millennials willing to spend more on brands that are sustainable.Their voice is being supported and amplified by organisations such as Good On You, B Corporation, Fashion Revolution, EcoAge, and many more who are working to bridge the gap between brands and consumers and build understanding on both sides.”

The tearing down of the veil of secrecy between fashion brands and consumers is an integral step towards greater industry transparency and consumer autonomy, but we still have some way to go.The BBC reported last year that while clothing production has doubled in 15 years, we’re discarding more than ever before, and yet approximately only 1 percent of our clothes are ultimately recycled.

It is businesses like Outland Denim and the Australian public who can make a huge impact right here at home. According to SBS Australia’s demand for textiles is one of the highest per capita in the world, with the fast fashion sector having grown 19.5 per cent over five years – we can make a difference by choosing where fashion’s future goes.

In Outland Denim's future, it is without a shadow of a doubt 2019 will be a monumental year for the brand. Currently they are working hard to open their own wash house; a stateof-the-art facility in Cambodia providing 13

Outl an d Den im Ca m

bodi a

the opportunity to welcome more workers to the Outland Denim family whilst giving the company greater control over their environmental footprint.They’ll also be launching their first leather-free range of garments, partnering with some new stockists and allowing customers to discover and sample denims before they buy around the globe. On the design side, Outland Denim will introduce exciting new styles including their first skirt (the Florence), statement white colourways, the oversized Ava jacket and an increased offering in old favourites, such as the Harriet and the Ranger jean.

As for those humble pair of jeans in your wardrobe? We love James’ approach:“Jeans aren't a throw-away item (or, they shouldn’t be), but something you keep for years if they're of a good quality and the right fit.They wear with you.They're like the lifelong friend who goes through all your ups and downs and stays faithful.You might not see them for a while, but you can guarantee that they will be there for you when you want them. For most people, they're the foundation to a wardrobe that you build upon.”

So, Get it girls, get inspired to make sure that the story behind your clothing is a beautiful as it looks on you. We know we speak for all of us when we say we’ll be joining the fight to make the fashion industry more beautiful, one pair of jeans at a time. *Name changed to protect the identity of seamstress as per Outland Denim Media Protocol.

February 2019

GET IT I STYLE STALKER

HELLESSY ruffle-detailed top, $1,756, farfetch.com.au

OLGA BERG Madison Flap Over Clutch, $48.96, myer.com.au

ASOS DESIGN Red Suit, Blazer $100 Slim Pant $70, asos.com.au

ICONIC EXCLUSIVE - Terri Block Heels, $49.95, theiconic.com.au

Donna Belt, $29.99, review-australia.com

Pearl Acetate Hoop Earring, $17.99, lovisa.com

style

STEAL HER

From Jane Fonda's red power suit to Rihanna's flirty maxi dress, we are setting the night alight with this red hot hue!

OPI Infinite Shine Colour So Hot it Berns, $22.95, myer.com.au

Leslie Ring, White, Rhodium Plating, $149, swarovski.com

COOPER STREET Saffron High-Neck Midi Dress, $118.96, theiconic.com.au TOO FACED Peach Kiss Moisture Matte Long Wear Lipstick Breakfast Club, $30, mecca.com.au

LONDON REBEL Red Microsuede, $24, famousfootwear.com.au

February 2019

Sterling Silver Diamond Fancy 20cm Bracelet, $149, shiels.com.au 14

A CHANCE JOURNEY Gold Coast fashion designer, Liz Clift, shares the success and joy a chance meeting has given her y journey with JT Foxx - the number one wealth coach in the world - began by chance. In August 2018, my son Brandon was booked to attend an event in Brisbane where JT was speaking but was called away for work in South America so my husband, Bill, and I took his place and the rest is, as they say, history.

A year prior to this, I had closed my boutiques and semi-retired, launching an exclusive showroom in Bundall. This allowed me the freedom to indulge in my passion for travelling to fashion events around the world and lecturing at The Paris American Academy, the fashion school where I had been a student in France. My career in fashion has been diverse, ranging from designing wardrobes for movies and television, stage garments for rock stars, uniforms for luxury hotels and cruise ships, right through to my own couture gowns, which have sold both here and in the US. I’ve seen, designed and loved it all!

I signed up for a two-day event with JT Foxx, eager to learn more about branding and marketing. I have recently designed a reversible travel range of clothing for my clients called ‘Sans Souci – without a care travel wear’ and am thrilled to be producing it on a larger scale for my online and wholesale market.

After just two days with JT Foxx, I was hooked and eagerly signed up for his next event, Mega Success, in Los Angeles.

The event was the most incredible experience. I rubbed shoulders with some

Liz Clift, Charlie Sheen, Brandon Clift

Liz and Brooke Shields

Liz and Dr Phil

of Hollywood’s finest including Mel Gibson, Michael Douglas, Dr Phil, Jewel and Jessica Simpson. I was fortunate enough to have the chance to speak with Hugh Hilton, who was effortlessly charming. But perhaps the biggest honour was being invited onstage in front of 2000 people to interview Brooke Shields. She was delightful, natural and quickly put my nerves to rest!

I flew my son Brandon in from Mexico City to join me at the event and he was equally as thrilled, excited and overwhelmed as I was. As a mother, I am so touched to take my son on this

adventure with me. JT Foxx has fuelled his fire to grow and excel in his own business ventures and that is so inspiring to me.

The next step in my career will happen this year, when I will speak on stage in front of 1500 people at JT’s next event in South Africa.

I’m so excited for the opportunities these experiences have presented me with, as well as the wonderful new friends I have made from all around the world.

My journey may have started by chance, but the opportunities and success that I have gained from it have been a joyful choice!

SUMMER SALE up to 70% OFF

All stock reduced to clear to make way for Parisian arrivals in March Showroom open 11am - 4pm Monday, Wednesday, Friday Saturday 9am to12 midday or by appointment Retail and wholesale 2/18 Strathaird Road Bundall, Gold Coast 0402 842 434

15

February 2019

GET IT I DATING

WHAT

if

Those two words. That one question. It changes everything and leaves a permanent mark e caught my attention from that first instant, from his ‘life of the party’ persona to his devil-may-care attitude. But we were so different. Too different. I told myself it would never work out between us, and when I met someone else – a mutual friend by chance – I knew it just wasn’t meant to be. But the question never left: what if?

A few years went by and I was overjoyed when my new love opened a familiar intricate box to reveal an engagement ring – a family heirloom. Full of dreams about our future and plans for the big day, I was ready to commit to this next stage of life.

Whatever ‘what ifs’ there had been were gone, and I was so in love.

On my wedding day, familiar faces filled the church, including his. We shared a passing smile and knew that we would forever be 'just friends'. And we were okay with that. We both had our own stories to get on with, and our tales wouldn’t intertwine. I heard he was leaving shortly for a backpacking trip around Europe then South America and suspected this would be the last time I would see him for a while.

The thing with fairy tales is though, they never tell you what happens after the happily ever after. What if one story ends? Is February 2019

there room to start again?

It was several months after our wedding day, I heard a knock at the door and opened it to find two solemn looking policemen; my heart sunk. The rest was a blur. Their words were jumbled but I managed to grasp that there had been a terrible car accident. My husband was gone.

That kind of grief knows no bounds, and

The thing with FAIRY TALES is though, they NEVER tell you what happens after the HAPPILY EVER AFTER. What if one story ends? Is there room to START AGAIN? though it changes over time, the songs, photographs and memories still stir up emotions. It was our story, and even though it was far too short, it didn’t make it any less full of meaning.

When I heard he was back from his travels, I was still healing, and life was in a state of limbo. Gradually, we spent more and more time with each other, and while 16

he was a huge support, he always gave me space. It wasn’t until a couple of years passed, that I was ready for the shift in our relationship to develop.

Though there is never a clearly defined timeline for grief - and at times it seems like there is no end - it helped to feel supported and have a connection with another human. I honestly didn’t know whether my heart would ever feel that way again, but it did… so there’s that silver lining.

The time spent with him turned from a devoted friendship with potential to a romantic relationship, and when we were ready there was a chance for a whole new bright future with the presentation of a diamond ring.

These days, when it comes to putting everything into perspective after what happened, a favourite quote of mine helps, it reads: “This is my one and only life, and it is a great and terrible and short and endless thing, and none of us come out of it alive.”

My first husband and I had a beautiful love story, and now I’m lucky to have the chance to love and be loved again! It’s a little like lightning striking the same place twice, but sometimes you must put yourself out there again if you’re going to get that same spark twice in a lifetime.

How to find the

perfect rock with CTJ

Like choosing the perfect life partner, the trick to choosing the perfect diamond requires passion, thought and clarity

he first thing we do at CTJ is introduce our clients to what we love about our diamonds. We are proud that 95% of our stones are certified by the GIA, and we ensure all our stones are laser inscribed.

The most important feature of a diamond is its lustre. This characteristic is what we all look for, and love, in this magnificent jewel.

Lustre, brilliance, sparkle or however you like to describe it, is the WOW factor of the stone. This element is the first and last thing we see and is what we are most proud of when we wear a diamond.

The cut of the stone is another defining feature. These days the cut has changed from the traditional ideal cut stone to what most manufacturers are cutting now, which is hearts and arrows. This cut of stone gives us more brilliance than the traditional ideal cut. The hearts and arrows cut has been patented into many brands, but don’t be fooled, it is the same cut of stone regardless of brand name.

Colour and clarity are next in the ranking of the four Cs, however, there has been confusion regarding their categorisation.

The myth that fluorescence in diamonds creates milkiness has been perpetuated by inexperienced retail sellers. Diamonds with fluorescence, were sold in the USA at a premium because people were told they were blue-white diamonds, and people preferred their appearance. With CTJ’s in-house jewellers and diamond specialists you have decades of knowledge and experience at your fingertips, delivering you honest and professional advice.

So please come into CTJ and let us sit and talk about diamonds. We’ll give you the real story behind our diamonds and ensure you enjoy the experience of buying this most precious of stones. See you at CTJ! P 5538 3988 ctj.com.au

online reviews?

How important are

Summer Clearance

SALE

Only as important as your business’ reputation!

Manage what your customers are saying about you online!

Boost your visibility online and be ranked above the competition!

FF O % 0% off 0 5 - ry 2

elle 25% w e j ll A

P 5 571 14 4 9

O P E N 7 DAY S

7 / 2 4 Te d d e r A v e , Main Beach

Email Leanne today! leanne@getit-magazine.com.au

17

February 2019

GHOSTED

Haunted by his own decisions

met him at The Island Rooftop Bar last summer.

His friend had been trying - if somewhat unsuccessfully - to pick up my girlfriend. He and I laughed together, watching the poor guy strike out, over and over again. We added each other on Facebook (because who even exchanges numbers these days, right?) and it heated up very quickly.

We just hit it off really well. We dated for about Eerie tales from ladies that have experienced – five months until I started to notice a change. He and survived – terrifying ghosting encounters as was slower to reply to my messages, a bit shorter told to Get it’s Hayley Bogaard in his replies. He’d often be busy with friends and our weekly movie night became more like a monthly affair.

Then, he stopped answering If you think that Waverly Hills Sanatorium my calls and texts altogether. or the Amityville Horror House, are the most Out of sheer desperation haunted places on earth, you’d be mistaken. and confusion, I went by his In fact, the most terrifying ghost stories apartment, only to find out from don’t come from the desolate hallways of his roommate that he’d moved dilapidated penitentiaries or the sadistic to London a week earlier to torture chambers of condemned mental take up an internship with an e and I met in a coffee shop when the asylums. They come from every day tales of architectural firm. I was angry, flustered barista accidently confused single girls on the Gold Coast who have fallen hurt and utterly bewildered. our orders. It couldn’t have been cuter. He victim to the modern day haunting known as It wasn’t until a few months was British, had a little bad boy edginess ‘ghosting’. later, when I was shopping with with a smile that melted me into a puddle.

The term ‘ghosting’ has become widely a girlfriend and walked past Our first date was as charming as the accepted in modern day dating circles. It a men’s clothing store that I cute little coffee shop we met at and as I refers to when someone suddenly cuts all ties got my closure. There he was, walked towards my car afterwards, he text and communication with the person they've working behind the counter, me. been seeing, without explanation or closure. dressed in a stupid bowtie ‘You’re amazing, I can’t believe I met They simply vanish into thin air. But unlike a that I know he’d hate, looking you’ traditional ghost hunt, there are no warning perfectly miserable. I guess the My heart raced, and it wasn’t the signs; no slimy ectoplasm, fluctuating EMF internship didn’t work out and caffeine. readings or Ouija board séances. There is just now he’s the one being haunted I replied and the mutually smitten cold, dead silence. by his own decisions. And me? exchange continued.

This month, we talk to three Gold I’ve got a dazzling new man, Until, well, it didn’t. He suddenly Coast women who have experienced this whose only ghostly tendencies stopped replying, but I thought nothing supernatural phenomenon and hear about are the movies he picks on date of it. We had planned to meet up the next their truly terrifying ghostly encounters… night! afternoon for a walk so I assumed I’d hear

Second time’s the charm

from him in the morning.

I didn’t.

In fact, I never heard a word from him.

He was just – gone.

Puzzled, I let it go, until three weeks later an email landed in my inbox from him. He explained his phone had been stolen from his car and he hadn’t been able to contact me. He pleaded to see me again and it felt sincere. I should have known.

We met for a drink and the magic hadn’t faded. He text me again when we left, professing how beautiful I was.

I replied.

He disappeared. Again.

It was an almost identical ghosting to the first time, except one thing changed.

I deleted his phone number, blocked his email and found a new coffee shop to get my daily caffeine fix!

February 2019

Out of the blue ometimes, you just have to accept things as fate, so when his friend request popped into my Facebook inbox, I smiled and silently thanked the universe. He was an old friend, someone I had worked with at a previous job and we’d always had a chemistry that was palpable. I wouldn’t have thought it possible, but he was even more charming and handsome now. We started chatting online, which moved to nightly phone calls of many hours and finally, a date over dinner and a few glasses of wine.

Things just fell into place and we soon found a lovely routine, talking during the week, spending our weekends together. The holidays arrived and he joined my family for Christmas lunch, bringing a delicious glazed ham and an esky full of champagne and beers! We spent New Year’s Eve laughing, sipping champagne and watching the fireworks – and each other – until we gleefully collapsed into bed in the wee hours of the morning.

Weeks later, he text me that he with his friends and I teased him about his bromances. He replied jokingly, always the jester. Until, suddenly he stopped replying. Out of the blue. I waited a few hours. A few days. A few weeks. All my texts and calls went unanswered. And that was it.

I still have a pile of his stuff: clothes, utensils, his esky, just sitting in my garage. Most of it I will throw out, but I think I’ll keep the esky - it’s quite nice. I mean, what use does a ghost have for an esky any way?

18

Shen Yun brings

Exquisitely beautiful.

An extraordinary experience for us and the children.

5,000 years

Cate Blanchett, Academy Award-winning actress

to the Gold Coast xquisite beauty from the heavens.

Profound wisdom from dynasties past.

Discover authentic Chinese culture, as Shen Yun Performing Arts, the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company, comes to HOTA, Home of the Arts in March.

Shen Yun, a New York-based company, was founded in 2006 by an impressive group of Chinese artists. Their dream was to create a renaissance for mankind’s most ancient heritage. Today, their wish has become an international phenomenon.

Shen Yun performs in 150 cities worldwide. With breathtaking dances, gorgeous costumes, live orchestra, and dynamic backdrops, this is a show brimming with themes of courage, hope, and triumph of good over evil. Shen Yun is the world’s only company depicting Chinese culture as it had been before it was nearly destroyed by decades of communist rule.

Each year, the company debuts a new line-up of original music and choreography, ranging from classical Chinese dance to traditional ethnic and folk dance styles to

© 2018 Shen Yun Performing Arts.

theatrical depictions of beloved stories.

At the performance’s core is classical Chinese dance. This is the same richly expressive art form that had once been performed in front of emperors in palace halls. Today, it has evolved into one of the most comprehensive dance systems in the world.

Shen Yun features hundreds of handmade costumes – showcasing apparel from China’s 5,000 years of history. Their exquisite colours blend seamlessly with the animated backdrops, instantly transporting the

audience to another world. The animation also contains a few surprises, but those are best left for the performance.

At the start of the Chinese New Year, Shen Yun’s embrace of this ancient heritage is a great way to welcome in the New Year, and is a highly accessible, enlightening, and entertaining experience.

Shen Yun at HOTA, Home of the Arts March 12-13. For tickets and more information, visit ShenYun.com/goldcoast.

“Extravagantly beautiful!”

– Broadway World

26–27 FEB

Concert Hall, QPAC TICKETS: 136 246 • qpac.com.au

12–13 MAR

HOTA, Home of the Arts TICKETS: 5588 4000 • hota.com.au

Presented by Falun Dafa Association of Australia, Queensland Branch Inc.

Direct from New York with an all-new 2019 production BOOK NOW! 19

ShenYun.com February 2019

GET IT I LOVE

Shakespeare’s starcrossed lovers to cohabidating We know people do crazy things for love, and no other classic story of love and woe tells the story as well as Juliet and her Romeo. In the tale, which everyone knows the ending to, the lovers die tragically in an unfortunate twist of fate after defying their families for love. Today, the sacrifice and commitment mostcommon in relationships is cohabidating, where couples move-in quickly together to relieve financial pressure. And with today’s market, who can blame them! It’s a certain way to get to know someone fast, but just ensure you have your ducks in a row and you maintain independence should anything go wrong.

From Jane Austen style balls to Instagrandstanding It is a truth universally acknowledged that social media is the modern platform to send an indirect (or not so indirect) message to the object of your affections. The term ‘Instagrandstanding’ involves someone posting to their social media feed for one person’s benefit in particular (a selfie in this case is called a ‘thirst trap’). In the era of Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, the opportunity to send an indirect message to the object of your affections was the way in which you presented yourself at the balls you were expected to regularly attend.

Thank goodness we can now do this from the comfort of your home (corset optional).

Shakespeare & Instagrandstanding

From waiting by the landline in the 90s, to Instagram story stalking in the noughties, dating has come a long way. Get it’s Kathleen Loxton takes a look at how modern-day dating terms have evolved along the way

John Cusack’s 80s boombox moment to the trend of 'Grande-ing' Remember those nostalgic 80s movies? The ones

by John Hughes where the guy holds the boombox over his head to win back the girl? Well, nowadays dating and music still has a connection in society – in particular when the relationship has ended. Ariana Grande’s song 'Thank U, Next' has produced a trend of ‘Grande-ing’, where the individual approaches the end of a relationship with gratefulness, a positive attitude and a drive to move-on with their life to whatever future relationships await. This is definitely the attitude we want to take into 2019, and all future endeavours of the heart.

From going steady to breadcrumbing Throughout the 50s and 60s it was commonplace for high school sweethearts to announce they were ‘going steady’, or in a committed relationship. Nowadays breadcrumbing is the new de rigueur, where one party sends just enough messages and gives just enough attention to keep the other party holding on in hope it’ll develop into something solid. But whether you’re the one spreading the breadcrumbs or the one picking them up, it’s important to remember you’re worth so much more.

Our advice is to wait until you find something as sweet as the whole cake – with icing.

Getting that early-noughties post-it note to ghosting and curving

February 2019

We all watched in horror when Carrie Bradshaw awoke alone to see a break-up post-it note – reading simply, “I can’t, I’m sorry. Don’t hate me.”

– from her boyfriend in the memorable Sex and the City episode The Post-It Always Sticks Twice. Today, ladies and gentlemen, we are guilty of taking this one step further to ghosting and curving. Whereas ghosting comes down to the guilty party vanishing into thin air without ever replying to messages, curving is when they will reply eventually (often days later) with a delayed response alluding to the fact they ‘missed’ the message. With the ease of blocking others on social media and updating mobile phone numbers, it’s tempting to take the less painful route out. But let’s kick this trend in 2019 and keep it old-school with a classy face-to-face meeting, or at least a respectful phone call.

20

GIFT

GUIDE

$3825

For him

ALLMÄNNING Coffee grinder, electric $19.95 Ikea Logan store

FOR THE MAN WHO HAS EVERYTHING. Pilot MR Fountain Pen. Variety of colours. $38.25. pilotpen.com.au

LÖRBY USB charger with clamp $19.99 Ikea Logan store

Roccbox With epic high heat & its rolling flame, Roccbox cooks authentic-style Neapolitan pizza in just 60 seconds. Your man will love it!

Price $899 gozney.com

$899

$595

$1999

$1995

PÅTÅR Signature coffee, beans, organic, UTZ certified/100 % Arabica beans UTZ certified $5.95 / 0.25 kg Price/kg $23.80 Ikea Logan store

For her

$999

FANTAST Meat thermometer/ timer, digital black $9.99 Ikea Logan store

$999 $3145

$1999 Ili Smartphone xbody purse.

Black brights $119 shoetique.com.au

PILOT Sign with style. Frixion LX with erasable ink. 4 colours to choose from. RRP $31.45. pilotpen.com.au

NJUTNING Scented candle in glass, Lavender bliss, lilac $9.99 Ikea Logan store

$1999

$799 2 pack

PHALAENOPSIS Potted plant, Orchid assorted colours $19.99 Ikea Logan store

$2999 KONUNGSLIG Champagne glass, pink $7.99/2 pack Ikea Logan store

21

BURVIK Side table, white $29.99 Ikea Logan store

February 2019

GET IT I FEATURE – some women save up and others choose to spend their substantial income this way. Jamie gave the example of a stock broker and childcare minder, who had both booked his services within the same couple of weeks.

Regardless, Jamie’s focus is on providing a professional and successful service to each client. He explained, “I am here to hold space for my clients, whether that be intimacy, conversation, healing or even binge-watching Netflix together.’’

While Jamie recognized the negative side to the industry, he reasoned that every industry has its bad sides. It’s all about the intent of the people within the industry and a personal responsibility to uphold ethical standards and give back to society.

Reiki (a Japanese therapy which aims to promote wellness and healing through gentle touch) is part of the philosophy and practice behind Jamie’s services, and part of the larger picture of helping society find connection and companionship.

Jamie’s mantra: 'giving someone something so difficult to obtain and experience in the modern world of dating and social media.’ Jamie is still finding the right way to explain his profession to his parents, however, friends and others in the business have been very supportive. Jamie suggested this is perhaps an indication of the changing nature towards escorts and its old stigma of a seedy underbelly.

Photo: Merilyn Smith

Unlocking the secret diary: THE MALE ESCORT We get candid with a real-life escort and go behind closed doors to talk professionalism and business amie J is your ultimate nice guy and a true-blue Australian bloke. His natural charm and rapport with women lead to a life-changing encounter several months ago, when a woman starved of affection introduced him to the business. Since then, Jamie has turned professional escort and built a client base through word of mouth and escort agency Scarlet Blue.

Whilst most of the responsibilities of being an escort require following Queensland state law, adhering to agency protocol and a duty of care towards clients, the service also encompasses more than sex and is an interesting reflection on modern day society.

Jamie divulged, ‘’First and foremost being an escort is about providing intimacy and a sex service, though this is changing towards a focus on healing and providing a safe space for women to feel comfortable and beautiful.’’

The clientele demographic Jamie has is wide-ranging, mostly from mid-thirties to fifties and sometimes older. What’s even more diverse is their professional and economic backgrounds February 2019

Jamie described, “I believe we finally live in an exciting time where women can choose to access the same privileges men have had for centuries, such as services like these. They deserve to let their hair down, forget about the world’s troubles and enjoy time being totally indulgent for their own benefit. And that’s what I want to help them do. The time has come now for women to explore these areas and be in a position of power.’’

The nerves still hit Jamie occasionally when he first meets a client, like the first few moments on stage – a feeling he is used to as someone with a musician background. However, Jamie spoke of living his truth and his goals for his career long term, with a drive to further establish himself in the industry.

Tours, hiring his own marketing team, studying kinesiology

They deserve to let their hair down...being totally indulgent for their own benefit. (a form of therapy that uses muscle monitoring to relieve imbalances in the body) and creating his own website are just some of the goals Jamie will strive for as he builds his brand in an industry that’s been reinventing itself since it began.

22

THE FORMER MADAM Fully uncensored, we share the honest account of one woman’s journey from 9-to-5 worker to Madam aving been based in Brisbane for the better part of my career, I built myself a solid reputation in the corporate realm. I worked the age-old Monday to Friday, nine ‘til five, completing paperwork, managing databases, attending business meetings with internal and external customers, building professional relationships and, on some occasions, travelling interstate to attend conferences and seminars. It was exactly how it sounds – stressful!

It wasn’t until I met my current partner, that I decided to make the move to the Gold Coast to be with him and to chase the 'lifestyle' – trading in Queensland’s main business hub, for the beach and laidback vibe.

I had secured a job that was utilising my already acquired skills and experience, however, I was in it for approximately six months when the company went into receivership. I had no experience working in the tourism industry, which is the epicentre of the Gold Coast’s job market and an industry where it’s very hard to get a full-time, permanent, salary role, as everyone and every business is so transient.

to be in this industry. Most of them had other part-time roles or were studying. It was, and still is, a means to cover every day living expenses, bills, rent, mortgage, car payments, university fees and so on – a very lucrative means of living for some.

Once the ladies had met with the client, I would then go back and meet with the client again to take their booking. Of course, all the ladies had aliases that they went by; no personal details were ever disclosed for all of our protection and privacy. Booking times started from 30 minutes, to 45 minutes, up to an hour.

And those that used this service? They weren’t completely what you’d expect either.

Some were middle-aged men celebrating an occasion — a divorce settlement for example. I also had a few clients come in to lose their virginity – it was something that had been weighing on their shoulders and they wanted to get the awkwardness over and done with. For some, it was starting to become a hindrance finding a partner, as it would come to 'crunch time' and they would panic or avoid getting physically intimate with their partner. In some cases, this had resulted in their relationships ending. What amazed me with these clients is that it actually made the ladies nervous; being the one to be someone’s 'first time' was something that they took as a serious responsibility.

But by far the majority are professional working men, the common theme amongst them: loneliness. Often the ladies would inform me after their bookings that there had been no sex involved. Some of these bookings had gone on for four to five hours – all the clients were really after was companionship. It was saddening at times to think that with so many people in the world loneliness is still rife.

The job being something that I had only seen in movies and tv… a Madam.

confessions of a male escort and a former Madam While scanning Seek for jobs one day, a good friend sent me a text saying, “Babe – here’s a job for you, it sounds fun and you could definitely do it.” She added a laughing emoji at the end and so, of course, I clicked on the link to see exactly what she was talking about.

It was a receptionist role working within the adult entertainment industry. I took my friend up on her challenge and phoned the number (out of curiosity and to one-up my friend really). Unbelievably, I ended up securing that interview and walked out with the job!

The job being something that I had only seen in movies and tv… a Madam. My partner didn’t agree with it at first, but I am headstrong and so I started my new job working twelve-hour shifts, some day and some nigh shifts.

And that’s when I learned the reality behind the escort process.

Some clients would make bookings via phone calls or text for specific ladies; we often had regular clients that would book with the same lady each time, whereas other clients would be walk-ins.

If it was a walk-in client, or group of clients, I would seat them in our introduction lounge and let the ladies know that they had a client waiting to meet them.

Dressed in their lingerie and heels, with makeup and hair done, each lady would individually introduce themselves to the client, spending five to ten minutes discussing the client’s wants and needs before it was the next lady’s turn. This process was in place to ensure each lady on shift had equal opportunities to make bookings – remember, for these ladies it was a conscious decision 23

February 2019

GET IT I HOMEWARES Stylus Allegro Above Counter Basin With No Tap Holes, $125, bunnings.com.au

Mercer + Reid Seymour Knit Throw Silver, $75.59, adairs.com.au

Round Body Brush, $49.95, thelaborganics.com.au

MAX LED Modern Straight Drop Pendant, POA, brilliantlighting.com.au

mood

SET THE

Beauty Mirror, $7, kmart.com.au

VUE Boston Grid Towel Range in White, $4.97 to $17.47, myer.com.au

Lino Freestanding Bath 1500mm, $899, highgrovebathrooms.com.au

February 2019

24

Bathroom Tumbler Grey Silk, $14, hsw.com.au

Bathroom Soap Pump Dispenser Grey Silk, $24, hsw.com.au

LIVING Introducing Get it LIVING, the first and only dedicated glossy publication for home styling, renovating and premier living on the beautiful Gold Coast. A celebration of innovative, modern and contemporary design and the uniquely Gold Coast companies and brands that help create the vibrant style our city is famous for.

Launching in April 2019, Get it LIVING is an exclusive opportunity to align your brand with the Gold Coast’s first publication of its kind and set the standard for modern, stylish living.

“Setting the standard for modern, stylish living..."

Contact the Get it LIVING team today to secure your place in this exciting new publication.

Leanne Hart 0414 946 361 leanne@getit-magazine.com.au Sheree Peteru 0431 832 545 hello@getit-magazine.com.au 25

February 2019

GET IT I FASHION

GET

TEESED THIS VALENTINE'S DAY The lingerie brand with a cult following has landed on Australian shores

Dita Von Teese has partnered with Australian lingerie experts Helen Anderson and Lara Brockhurst of Anderson Brockhurst Enterprises to bring her renowned 1950’s style to Australian women.

Available at Myer, David Jones and selected online retailers, the Australian founded range offers sizing up to and including a G cup in the Dahlia collection, and briefs ranging from an 8 up to a size 20 in selected styles. Fully embracing quality, beauty and functionality, this line is something special just for you.

Photos by Albert Sanchez Photos supplied by Lara Brockhurst

February 2019

26

GREEN WITH ENVY DAHLIA PEACOCK, $49.95 - $99.95, available at myer.com.au 27

February 2019

THE TRIPLE THREAT DAHLIA BLACK, $49.95 $99.95. Available at myer.com.au and davidjones.com.au Robe, is Dita’s own.

SAVOIR FAIRE in Electric Copper, $49.95 - $84.95, available in July at myer.com.au (available online globally now)

MISS WEST Spot Long Sleeve Bodysuit, $198.95, available this month at myer.com.au February 2019

28

DARK ROMANCE LAMAR ROBE, $300, available now at davidjones.com.au 29

February 2019

GET STYLISH

GET IT I FASHION

THE MONTH OF LOVE!

2

1

A deep V neckline will enha nce the bust

Hello sexy fashionistas!

It's February, the month of love! loved up, no It's always nice to feel loved-up, matter what age or size you are.

Jump right in and let Cupid do the work. Ladies, this month, your sexy underwear becomes sexy outerwear!

Let me walk you through how to make your sexy under garments work for you as a feature piece you can have some fun with.

A beautiful bodysuit does double duty when worn under a classic suit.

Leave just a hint of lace in eye’s view.

Your favourite denim and a leather jacket will certainly create drama and get your heart racing!

Look for figure flattering underwear that suits your body shape and leaves just a little to the imagination. It’s all about that little something that makes the eyes linger, just a little longer.

This time of year, it would be a good idea to get a bra fitting because as we know girls, what used to head north, now goes south, east and west! This particularly applies if you have lost or gained weight; there's nothing worse than an illfitting bra.

So girls, I say: let's bring sexy back!

Go out there and spoil yourself, and someone you love. Single and ready loved up, make this to mingle, or all loved-up, February a month to remember!

Stay sexy and stylish!

with Susie the Stylist

3

6

L o v e, y o u r s ec re t a d m i re r x x

4

Tickle his fa ncy with you r a ccessories

Susie

5

1 You've Got a Way With Me Lace Bodysuit, $50, nasygal.com.au 2 STELLA MCCARTNEY Tie-front satin and lace bodysuit, $425, net-a-porter.com.au 3 Vamp Highness Full Cup Bra – Red, $69.99, brasnthings.com.au 4 Bondage Boutique Luxury Ostrich Feather Tickler, $18.95, lovehoney.com.au 5 Wide Fit Square Toe Heels, $57, au.boohoo.com 6 OPI Infinite Nail Polish - Relentless Ruby, $23.95, adorebeauty.com.au 7 Flat Disc Drop Tassel Earrings, $16.99, colettehayman.com.au

Style. ADVICE

FASHION.

Fashionable February...

Stay stylish this month. Bookings available!

Get social with me Susie the Stylist @susiethestylist

Styling session vouchers available.

0414 904 364 | susiethe s t ylis t @ gmail.com SHOPPING SERVICE February 2019

7

|

I M A G E C O N S U LT A N T 30

|

S H O P P I N G A N D R E TA I L

3

1 2 4

Date night

5

BAG ESSENTIALS

8

6

10

7 9

1 Red Rebecca Flower Clutch Bag, $39.99, colettehayman.com.au 2 CHANTECAILLE Faux Cils Longest Lash Mascara, $105, mecca.com.au 3 Wrigley Eclipse Mint Strawberry 34g, $2.60, woolworths.com.au 4 Pure Color Love Burning Kiss, $36, esteelauder.com.au 5 Apple iPhone 8 (PRODUCT) RED - 256GB, $1229, harveynorman.com.au 6 Purse-Sized Styling Brush, $9.89, ladyjayne.com.au 7 Sublime Keyring, $69.95, mimco.com.au 8 Heart Compact Mirror: Essential, $6.47, kikki-k.com/au 9 Sì Passione Eau De Parfum, $99, giorgioarmanibeauty.com.au 10 Blotting Paper, $4, nyxcosmetics.com

REVERSIBLE TRAVEL RANGE — Introducing —

SANS SOUCI

without a care travel wear Drip dry. Two garments in one — perfect for travel.

Showroom open 11am - 4pm Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 9am to 12 midday or by appointment Retail and wholesale 2/18 Strathaird Road Bundall, Gold Coast 0402 842 434

31

February 2019

GET IT I BEAUTY Don’t believe what you’ve heard, sizes does matter – at least when it comes to your lashes!

Bold, defined lashes will completely upgrade your look and enhance your eye makeup.

It will also open up your eyes, making them look bigger and making you look fresh faced and wide awake – even after too many wines with the girls last night!

COVERGIRL Plumpify blastPRO Mascara 13.1 mL, $15.36, priceline.com.au

BLACK, WHITE &

red all over red feature look is to keep the rest of your makeup clean

Jenna Dewan rocks a red lip

GET THE LOOK NOW! Actress, Jenna Dewan, shows how simple and striking a strong red lip can look. And you can get it with these three quick tips.

Natural Glow Mineral Bronzer Monaco Autumn, $35, adorncosmetics.com.au

Keep your eye makeup clean with a crisp black eyeliner and a double coat of your favourite mascara

opting for a red lip, keep your eye makeup simple and your eyeliner black and bold for a striking look!

ELIZABETH ARDEN Beautiful Colour Precision Eye Liner, $32, davidjones.com

Need a more su btle pop of colou r? Red nails a re a classic a nd a re the perfect way to introdu ce the bold shade to you r look!

Build up the colour on your cheeks, starting with a light bronzer, rather than going in with a deep blush Colour So Hot it Berns, $22.95, myer.com.au

Apply your red lippy, check your teeth and you’re good to go!

TOO FACED Peach Kiss Moisture Matte Long Wear Lipstick Breakfast Club, $30, mecca.com.au February 2019

32

GET IT I BEAUTY

Summer lovin’

FOR YOUR STRANDS

Summer can be a hellish time of year for your hair – and it’s not just because of the heat! We find out five things that are secretly damaging your hair this summer ummer brings with it romantic, tousled hairstyles, sun-kissed strands and lots of – hair damage?! Yes, that’s right; this time of year is actually hell for your hair!

We all remember our mothers lecturing us on the damage that chlorine will do (and those of us who are blondes will recall the distinct green tinge after a day in the pool…) but that’s just the beginning.

Here are five things you didn’t know were hurting your hair.

Air Conditioning

If you’re anything like us, your two favourite letters in summer are A-C. Yes, that’s right, air conditioning may be what some call a luxury, but here on the Gold Coast, we know it as a necessity. But what you may not know is that it is seriously sucking the moisture from your strands.

If you’re living in air-conditioned bliss, be sure to keep up the hydration with regular masks and leave-in conditioners.

Wet brushing

From days at the beach, afternoons by the pool and more showers to stay fresh, our hair is wet more often during summer.

All too often, we run a brush through our damp hair and chuck it up in a bun just to get it out of our faces. Well girlfriend - stop!

While your hair is dense with water, it is more prone to breakage and mindlessly brushing away at knots will only cause

damage! Be patient and use a detangling elixir to help work the knot through gently.

High ponytails

With humidity reaching unprecedented heights this month, women – and some more trendy men – are reaching for the hairbands on their wrists and pulling their locks up into a high, tight ponytail.

And while you may look glamorous, this taut style actually causes damage to your hairline, especially when pulled quite tightly. Limit this style for shorter periods of time, or better yet, opt for a loose plait or braid to keep your hair off your face.

Sunglasses

Margaritas, the latest copy of Get it and sunglasses: the quintessential summer accessories on the Gold Coast. But your on-trend, tortoise shell aviators may be doing more damage to your locks than you realise! Pulling your sunglasses back and forth from on top of your head to over your eyes pulls on your hair and can cause damage to the follicles themselves. Save your locks and pop your sunnies in your handbag!

Sunshine This one comes as no surprise but it’s worth mentioning as a timely reminder!

The sun can cause damage, discolouration and dryness, especially if your hair is coloured! A trendy, floppy hat won’t cut it – make sure you’re wearing a leave inmoisturiser with SPF or heat protectant to ward off those rays!

Now, we’re not suggesting you give up any of these summer essentials – just be mindful and treat your hair with a little TLC and the right products and every day will be a good hair day!

Meet your hair’s new best friend. Adored by innovators and originators, the Batiste range of dry shampoos are every Gold Coast girl’s summer essential. With a fresh fragrance that leaves your hair smelling as good as it looks. Contemporary, tantalisingly, cool and crisp notes make this unisex dry shampoo as liberating for blokes as it is for babes.

Whether you’re a brunette babe, a luscious luxe lady or just in need of fresh locks, Batiste’s range has got you covered.

Over 80 stores across the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Northern NSW www.chempro.com.au

33

February 2019

GET IT I TRAVEL

Loved-up Sarah Blinco shares three very romantic international destinations to lust after now

Lisbon, Portugal

It was the Age of Discovery when Portugal ruled the world. Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Europe and offers a wonderful glimpse into the layers of time and influence that spread around the globe from its very own shores to Brazil, China and beyond. Set upon seven hills, imagine oldworld trams bustling along narrow, cobbled streets, grand architecture, quirky stores scaling hilltops, and colourful rooftops as far as the eye can see.

The city is best experienced from up high, February 2019

on a terrace of one of its many chic sky-bars, where you should land just in time for sunset.

Eat You can’t go to Lisbon and not try a Pastel de Nata (Portuguese custard tart).

They’re everywhere, sweet and delicious!

Try at least one from Pastéis de Belém, where they’ve been making these according to a top-secret recipe since 1837.

Wash down with a shot of Ginjinha, another local delight – a sour cherry liqueur (tastes like Port) that has been served in the city since 1890.

Stay Find accommodation like the stylish Lisboa Pessoa Hotel near Rossio Square, on a hilltop overlooking São Jorge Castle, so you can wake up to a view and easily explore historical neighbourhoods handin-hand.

Go It gets very busy in the summer season (May to August), and while it’s cooler in the autumn/winter months, everything is still open, and you’ll avoid the crowds.

34

Ibiza, Spain

Do not be mistaken, Ibiza isn’t just a ‘party’ island (although it is the best fun you’ll have all year). Ibiza has an energy, it’s magnetic (quite literally, neighbouring rockisland Es Vedra is allegedly one of the three most magnetic points on earth next to the North Pole and Bermuda Triangle)!

This, the most famous of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is surrounded by secret coves, breathtaking landscapes, pretty little islands, and sleek beach bars designed for the best of a Mediterranean experience.

Eat Pre-book a table at the fabulous Café Mambo, enjoy cocktails, tapas and potentially an appearance by a famous DJ. As the sun sets, the crowds cheer and the music will gear you up for a great night to remember.

Stay To get amongst the spectacle that is sunset, stay just off San Antonio’s ‘sunset strip’ at a spot like Hotel Abrat which is far enough from the nightlife that it’s quiet,

Lisbon at night

here’s a few big names that come to mind when we think of ‘romantic destinations’ – Paris, Venice, New York, the Maldives, Bali – and, they of course deserve a spot on this most lovely of lists.

But what about the places that take you by surprise – those you’d probably not consider, until you show up and discover the undeniable magic in the air?

Here’s three of the best destinations for romance in 2019.

Valletta City

Lisbon trams and old town

Ibiza - Ez vedra

Ibiza secret walks

but close enough to enjoy the action. If you prefer a slower pace, stay within walking distance of Ibiza’s mesmerising UNESCO listed medieval Old Town.

Go This is a sexy summer destination, so visit April to October when Ibiza’s fabulous hippy markets, drumming beaches and some of the very best entertainment venues in the world like Ushuaïa and Hï are open for the season.

Valletta, Malta

For an adventure straight out of a Knight’s tale, Valletta is the place to go. Think waterfront fortress ruins positioned on a hilly peninsula between two spectacular harbours. It’s a feast for the senses, with food and architecture influenced by European and North African neighbours and past rulers. Valletta is the small capital city of the island of Malta.

Booking a trip here is the best surprise you could give a loved-one – Malta is picture perfect in every direction.

Lisbon - Rossio Square

Eat Give Ftira a try, it’s a local variation of pizza that you’ll find at Nenu the Artisan Baker’s in Valletta. Seek Q Bar on the Valletta waterfront for a classy cocktail break.

Venture a little further to Marsaxlokk, a traditional fishing village with a range of fresh seafood and pasta outdoor-dining right on the shoreline.

Stay Seek accommodation on Sliema’s seafront, where you can easily access the nightlife of St Julian’s, excellent cliff-top 35

But what about the places that take you by surprise – those you’d probably not consider, until you show up and discover the undeniable magic in the air? bars, harbour cruises, and a five-minute ferry ride across to the striking capital.

Go Malta is very hot in summer and can get crowded. Head there slightly off-season for better deals and reprieve from the scorching August heat.

Want more information on these destinations? Search for the cities on Sarah’s travel blog, travellivelearn.com February 2019

GET IT I HEALTH

tree, so they’re informed of their genetic risk of ovarian cancer. For some high-risk women, surgery to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes after childbearing is the most effective means of preventing ovarian cancer. It is crucial women who have symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as bloating, difficulty eating, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habit or bladder function seek help early, as the effectiveness of our treatments for ovarian cancer are greater with early diagnosis.

In the last 30 years, survival from ovarian cancer has improved by ten per cent and there are many new therapies under investigation. However, less than half of Australian women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will survive for more than five years from their diagnosis and treatment. This is because early, curable stages of ovarian cancer often don’t produce symptoms and, in contrast to other cancers such as breast cancer and cervical cancer, there is no screening test for ovarian cancer that can detect cancers early.

After Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, more of our community should know that around Australia (and the wider global community) there is a network of highly skilled, committed scientists and researchers trying to improve our knowledge and treatment options for ovarian cancer. For individuals wanting to and able to contribute, Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder to make a donation towards this work. Ovarian Cancer Australia is an example of one organization that is part of the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition working towards improved knowledge of ovarian cancer and care for our women living with the disease.

To do our part in improving awareness and fundraising, Embrace Gynaecology is hosting a Paint the Town Teal event on February 27. Details of the event and how to donate to Ovarian Cancer Australia can be found on their website (embracegynaecology.com.au) or ovariancancer.net.au.

Australia unites to support Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month Each February the people of Australia are reminded to turn their thoughts to ovarian cancer, improving community knowledge and giving support to a worthy cause

very year, as our population grows and ages, more Australian women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer. This year, the national estimate is 1,510 women.

Sharing these women’s stories helps to enforce that they are not alone and is an empowering message of hope to women who find themselves at some point on the trajectory from ovarian cancer diagnosis to treatment and survivorship. It is a reminder that there is a community of dedicated professionals, researchers, donors and volunteers working to help the more than 4,000 Australian women who are living with ovarian cancer.

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month helps us realize that while ovarian cancer is a less common cancer, it is over-represented in our deaths as the sixth most common

cause of cancer related death for Australian women. It puts the spotlight on the 1,046 Australian women who are predicted to lose their lives to ovarian cancer in 2019. It makes us reflect on what we need to know to improve outcomes for our women and ask, “What can each person do to help themselves and to help others?”

Australian women must be mindful of their non-genetic risk factors for ovarian cancer (including age, some types of infertility, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, obesity, menopause and hormone replacement therapy). We need women to see their health care professionals to talk about their risk factors and ways they can modify them. We also need women to talk to their families and make sure they have details of their family

mbrace Gynaecology aims to provide quality care for a range of complex benign, precancerous and cancerous gynaecological conditions.

We focus on the most recent medical standards for women’s medical, psychological, social, cultural, and sexual needs

Providing excellence in care with compassion and advocacy for women’s needs

Dr Helen Green Gynaecological Oncologist

Suite 18 Gold Coast Private Hospital, 14 Hill Street, Southport I Suite 4 Pindara Place, 13 Carrara St Benowa.

P 5 5 9 7 27 1 0 a d m i n@ e m b r ac e gy n ae c ology.c om.au • e m b r ac e gy n ae c ology.c om.au February 2019

36

Most Personal Trainers are NOT like the Commando!

JEFF OSBORNE FROM VISION PERSONAL TRAINING BUNDALL GETS REAL ABOUT WHAT PERSONAL TRAINERS ARE ACTUALLY LIKE

here are lots of positive and negative aspects to The combat the hurdles when you encounter them next time.

Biggest Loser. For one, there are some unrealistic Most personal trainers can be tough. They know when you expectations being set by people who weigh in every are not doing what you can and just making excuses. They second week, have an entire environment set up for them know when you have become complacent, skipped workouts to lose weight and, except for a few, universally result in regaining and eaten crap. But the difference is the good ones don’t use the weight. The upside is that it gets people thinking and talking fear, pain and intimidation to get you back on track. They use about eating healthy, losing excess weight and exercise. encouragement, support and honesty to help move you forward.

My favourite trainer in the series is the Commando! Unfortunately, If you need to make the way the show portrays him is not an accurate representation of some changes to your what he is like as a person and a trainer. It also does a disservice to lifestyle and want to make most of the other trainers out there. things permanent, it might be time to get someone in What most trainers are like: your corner that is there Most trainers (at least the good ones) are there as your support to keep you on track when team. You have so many things pushing and pulling you in different you go off and to give directions these days: more work, parties, travel, alcohol, commutes, you advise to make the less time to prepare food, Uber Eats and drive-thrus, the list goes on. right decisions at the right The job of your personal trainer is to be your body’s advocate. To be time. Having the support there for your health and to encourage you to make good decisions of a personal trainer can for your body. change your life for the Most trainers take the time to understand you and what your life better, so choose one is like, they respect you and know that you didn’t choose to be out wisely and don’t get put of shape, it happens. They seek to understand what drives you and off by what you have seen work on helping you move your health up your list of priorities, so on TV. Like most instances, that you take positive steps forward every week. The really good reality TV is not the same ones know exactly what you need to do to get where you want to Let us help or you the version of YOU! as reality. go, and they don't use emotional blackmail fearfind to drive youbest to take regular action - they use the things that motivate you and the reasons why you are doing it in the first place. #RedefineYOU Most trainers also understand that you are not going to be 100% Studio perfect 100% of the time.Bundall Most personal trainers are realistic in what Bundall Studio Unitknow 3, 93 you Ashmore Road things to do in to expect from you and they have other Unit 3, 93 Ashmore Road, Bundall 5538 4788 your week other than seeph: them.

They don’t take it personally when P 55384788 visionpt.com.au/Bundall you trip up, they help you visionpersonaltraining.com back to your feet and give you the tools to

“ it’s not just about weight loss, it’s about health”

37

February 2019

GET IT I DATING

HOW

ood men, like great sex and comfortable heels, can be almost impossible to find. Women are plagued with the classic case of quantity over quality, where there’s a plethora of men at their fingertips and none worthy of gripping on to.

We have a hard time spotting the good because we’re always looking for the bad. We’re so quick to classify, quantify and categorize a man under one stigmatized label that we don’t give him a chance to prove himself outside of the group.

For all the women who are seeing, dating or thinking about a man, here are the telltale signs he really is a good guy.

He asks the questions, never just answers them

to spot a

GREAT GUY

A good guy wants to get to know all of you, not just inside of you. He doesn’t ask contrived questions, ones that he knows will get you feeling comfortable enough to sleep with him, but those questions that are generated from real conversation.

Whether we’re dating around or all loved-up, the month of love always has us thinking of ‘the one’ and so, Get it’s love expert Linda from Ideal Introductions gives us the tools to spot a real Prince Charming from the fakes

He probes and ponders, interrogates and asks for more. And, of course, the sign you’ve got a really good guy is when he remembers your answers two dates later.

family. Most importantly, he doesn’t hide important parts of his life from you.

He opens doors, never closes them In the metaphorical and literal world of doors, a good guy is always opening them for you.

Whether it’s the openings to his life or to the restaurant you went to for dinner, he’s always extending a hand.

He doesn’t close himself off when things are getting too personal or start moving too quickly. He’s open to more than just the sliding doors of first dates and the bedroom doors of one-night stands.

He asks about your family, doesn’t hide his

He knows fine doesn’t mean fine, even if it’s easier to believe

Good MEN, like GREAT SEX and comfortable heels, can be almost

IMPOSSIBLE to find.

A good guy doesn’t try to get out of a fight with simple tricks and wordplay.

He doesn’t ignore your aches and pains but picks up on the small signs and cover-ups and knows that something isn’t right. He knows that fine doesn’t mean fine and will always try and see through your sometimes-horrible displays of ‘being okay.’

He doesn’t make himself your whole world, just makes your whole world better It’s easy to want to make your life into someone else’s. It’s even easier to take someone out of his or her life and into yours. A good guy respects the life you had before him and doesn’t try and take you from it.

Men scare as easily as women.

They are quick to jump ship and have many idiosyncrasies that come with the dating territory. The first mention of family, relationship or monogamy has the potential to send him back through all those doors he just opened for you.

He isn’t intimidated by your career, friends or weird hobbies, but celebrates them. He’s the best thing to come into your world, even if he’ll never be the centre of it.

A good guy, however, doesn’t shake so easily. A good guy wants to be with you, he wants to know your flaws and your

So, keep this list handy Get it girls, and refer to it anytime you’re questioning the authenticity of your Prince Charming.

February 2019

38

GET IT I BUSINESS

signs of a

DEAD-END JOB Just like any relationship your career goes through phases so this month, Karen Gately, founder of Corporate Dojo and author of The People Manager’s Toolkit, takes us through the 5

signs of a dead-end job

ll too often I observe people plodding along, barely surviving the challenges of working for a business or in a job they don’t enjoy. Reflect on when your work has drained your spirit and undermined your ability to thrive in life. When have you worked in an environment or done a job that caused you to be unhappy both at work and at home? Doing what you love and working with people you trust is unquestionably important to enabling you to live a happy and fulfilled life.

Contemplate this for a moment: how driven are you really to create a rewarding and fulfilling work life? Only you can take the steps that will ensure you love your job and don’t mind turning up, regardless of what day of the week it is. Are you striving to get ahead or are you simply accepting an ordinary standard of work experience? You know it’s time to move on from a dead end job when:

You struggle to get out of bed every day If your first thought when you wake

up each day is ‘oh no I have to go to work’, chances are you need to leave. It’s normal and to be expected that we will have days when we really can’t be bothered going to work, but when the mental battle to get going becomes part of your daily routine it’s a clear sign things need to change.

Opportunity is lacking We are all likely to experience times when we are eager to take the next step in our work life but are held back by circumstances. You know it’s time to move on when there is little to no hope of your dreams being realised working where you are. Be patient but also recognise when there is no point waiting for opportunities that are unlikely to arise.

Promises are constantly broken Even the best of leaders are capable of making promises and then failing to follow through. However, when it becomes typical that promises are 39

“

“

Doing what you LOVE and working with people you TRUST is unquestionably important to enabling you to live a HAPPY and FULFILLED life. made and broken you know it’s time to find an employer you can trust to do what they say they will.

Your boss is self absorbed Choose to work for people who respect you and your career aspirations. Move on when you realise your employer is too self absorbed to understand and invest in you. Be realistic about what you expect but also recognise when you are working for someone incapable of thinking beyond their own needs and wants.

Your potential isn’t being realised If all you are capable of doing isn’t recognised, and your boss fails to give you the opportunity to learn or contribute, it’s probably time to move on.

If you truly believe you have what it takes and yet you are constantly passed over for opportunities, look for an employer who can see your potential.

February 2019

GET IT I SUCCESS

A TASTE of success

elebrated for creating the most original restaurants the Gold Coast has to offer, including Bonita Bonita, BonBon and Poke Poke, Morgan Walsh is a beloved industry staple. When it comes to creating those special gems, she follows her heart and business savvy earned from working in the industry she’s been passionate about since her childhood.

Each venue has its own unique special touches and themes, from Fufu’s and The Milkman's Daughter refined but relaxed style to BonBon’s elegant ambience.

Morgan explained,“From a business perspective I realise that the consumer isn't going to eat the same thing every day, so I try to have different food offerings to cater to this; this is really important with businesses so close to each other and it really pushes me creatively to think outside the box.”

The driving force behind these extraordinary eateries is Morgan’s inspiration dreamt-up from living in her own paradise: the Gold Coast. Even after time away in Melbourne she found herself back in her favourite place in the world, and she believes these sun-drenched shores have a lot to offer creatives and entrepreneurs.

“The Gold Coast for aspiring business owners, creatives and entrepreneurs is a great place to be; I think because people here are a little more laidback, most people are very supportive of those taking risks and providing services and entertainment” said Morgan.

Since working in hospitality as a child, Morgan has been through her fair share of ups-anddowns in the industry. A thick skin, not indulging in any negative talk and learning from mistakes February 2019

With the ultimate date night around the corner, renowned restaurateur Morgan Walsh talks wining and dining, business and making her mark on the industry…

is key. She noted seeing the public walking in her restaurant’s day-in and day-out is when she knows she’s done something right.

Morgan’s approach to business and life is inspirational and something we should all aspire to:“Be fearless, be brave and give it everything you have. Despite how tough things can get at times I feel looking back at life you'll be prouder of yourself for giving it a go rather than by playing it safe. Better to try and fail than never try at all.”

Going into 2019 and thinking about the future of her unstoppable career path, Morgan has plenty ideas and plans about how she’d like to branch-out and what she’ll be focussing on this year. Specifically, achieving more worklife balance whilst aiming to grow her design business Growling Tiger Designs.

40

Morgan divulged,“It was always my dream to own my own restaurant, but I've been in this industry since I was a kid and after five years of opening and owning five businesses, it’s time for a change. Along the way I've really found I think my true passion, which is design. I've always loved getting my hands dirty and being creative. I love beautiful things, I love making beautiful things. I've been lucky through the design process of all my businesses to work with some really talented craftsmen and I love observing and analysing and figuring out for myself how to make and structure things. So, the next goal is to really put the time into more design jobs in retail or residential projects.”

Having had a busy festive period working on Bonita Bonita and Frida Sol, in Palm Beach, Morgan hopes that 2019 will be a time of reflection, spending quality time with loved ones and investing where she spends her energy wisely. Her mantra? “You can do anything, but not everything!”

There’s no stopping this extraordinary talent, and we’re counting down the moments to feasting our eyes on more fantastical creations by Morgan: it’s sure to be a year to remember!

GET IT I MONEY

Love your money

Les McGuire ADFS(FP), Principal of Future Proof Financial, teaches us how to lead from the heart and head when it comes to our finances

ost people love to shop, whether it be for that favourite dress, shoes or maybe the holiday you always wanted. But if we didn’t have that little piece of plastic in our hands, would we still of made that emotional purchase?

Being passionate about our finances, and being aware of what we spend, is a sure way to start building that nest egg for the future. I’m a big believer in also living for today, enjoying success and having dreams; but there needs to be a special balance.

Understanding the best use for our money is one of the key elements to financially succeeding. Too many people have money idle in their savings account, or home loan offset account, while having outstanding credit card debt gaining significant interest. We need to be

smarter with how we use our money, instead of paying unnecessary interest to the credit card companies when this money could go towards achieving your own personal goals.

In 2016, while going through some major changes in my life, I knew I had to create a plan to ensure that I could achieve my goals.

Part of my plan involved major changes personally, including my living arrangements, expenses and finding that work-life balance.

I wrote a list of things in the next 12 months that I wanted to achieve in order of priority, with each goal I wrote the importance personally of achieving the goal and also the expected financial cost. This gave me focus: I had to understand what I was spending in order to start saving and to be able to achieve these goals.

How did I turn things around? Well, first I worked out all of the things I could do without; what were the discretionary emotional purchases opposed to the necessary lifestyle purchases. Then BOOM! Here it comes… I cut back on the beer, the coffees and eating out.

Wow! You’re thinking; where’s the fun in that?

Well it taught me an incredible lesson: what I needed to live and what truly made me happy.

Money doesn’t necessarily make us

happy, but it provides the ability for us to do things. If we are slightly less indulgent on the discretionary items, the money saved can pay for that something special.

Everyone needs a personal plan to achieve our goals, wants and wishes. Having a plan encourages change; then reward yourself when you have achieved these milestones.

Start loving yourself and achieve all of the things you personally deserve by loving your money also.

Featuring inspiring women Anne Nalder, Tamara Morris and Petrina Zaphir

THE 2019 SBAA OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY LEADERSHIP AWARDS & CELEBRATION LUNCH HOTA, Friday March 8, 12.30pm Includes sparkling on arrival, elegant three course lunch with bottled wine, fabulous raffle and lucky door prizes to be won!

“The Gold Coast regions most prestigious annual event and leadership award program. Celebrating 24 years of recognising and inspiring female youth and women for their outstanding leadership and achievements in our community” To book your table, contact bookings@connectingwomeninternational.com 41

February 2019

GET IT I RECIPES

Serve up date night like a pro with these mouth-watering recipes from CHEFIN CHEFIN is an innovative catering company that curates unimagined, memorable and unique dining experiences for both corporate and private consumers in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

With creative chefs, CHEFIN tailors each and every event to fit the exact needs and tastes of the client.

They do everything from purchasing the fresh produce from local suppliers to the clean-up - therefore making it a pleasurable experience for both the guests AND the host.

CHEFIN offers truly unique experiences from culinary camping, blindfolded dinners (have a go at Bird Box dining) and raw food feasts, no event is too big or too small.

Head to chefin.com.au to book your next experience

SAFFRON AND PEA RISOTTO 5 SERVINGS • • • • • • • • • • • •

1L (4 cups) Fish Stock 75g unsalted butter 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 small brown onion, halved, finely chopped 1 celery stick, finely chopped 3 garlic cloves, crushed 400g (2 cups) arborio rice 200g (1 cup) peas Pinch of saffron thread 140g (1 1/4 cup) grated fresh Parmesan 200g Tiger Prawns (sustainably sourced) Salt & freshly ground black pepper

The courses of

true love

Main

In a separate pan, heat the stock to a gentle simmer. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over low heat. Add the onion, celery and garlic, and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until onion softens. Add the prawns to the hot oil and press the heads against the pan with a ladle to pull out the juices.

Remove the prawns and reserve until the end.

Add rice and cook, stirring, over medium heat for 1-2 minutes or until the grains begin to release aroma. Add a ladle (about 1/2 cup) of stock and saffron to the rice and use a wooden spoon to stir until the liquid is completely absorbed. Continue stirring and allow the liquid to be absorbed before adding the other ladle of stock. Cook until the rice is just tender, and the risotto is creamy (this will take about 25 minutes). Add the peas, and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes or until well combined and heated through. At this time add the prawns.

Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan.

Taste and season with salt and pepper.

February 2019

42

Entrée

CURED TRUFFLED QUAIL EGG NEST WITH MOZZARELLA AND DEHYDRATED KALAMATA OLIVE • • • • • • • •

Truffle oil 50g salt 8ea quail egg yolk 100g kataifi pastry 20g butter 4ea bocconcini mozzarella balls 1ea micro basil 30g pitted, drained kalamata olives

For the cured quail egg yolk simply sprinkle the salt over a parchment paper in a ring type fashion and place each yolk in the middle to hold them in place. Sprinkle 1 tsp more of the remaining salt on each egg yolk. Place in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius and dehydrate for 4 hours. During this time, place the pitted kalamata olives on a separate parchment paper lined pan and place in the oven with the eggs and dehydrate for 8 hours.

For the kataifi pastry, simply pull a small amount of pastry at a time and roll between your finger to create a nest. Place the rolled nest onto a parchment lined sheet pan and bake in the oven with the butter at 180 degrees until golden brown. Next assemble the nests by cutting the mozzarella in half, then place over each nest with the cured yolk and micro basil. Garnish with micro basil, truffle oil and serve.

e

Photos courtesy of CHEFIN

Dessert EARL GREY PANNA COTTA WITH FRESH BERRIES 3 SERVINGS • • • • • • • •

170ml milk 170ml cream 115g sugar 1tsp gelatin powder 1 punnet raspberries 1 punnet strawberries 1 punnet lemon balm 2 Earl Grey tea bags

For the panna cotta: Place the cream and milk in a saucepan. Place the two tea bags and sugar in the milk mixture.

Slowly bring to the boil over a medium heat. Remove from the heat and set aside for 10 minutes to infuse. Soak the gelatin in 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl for 10 minutes.

Place the gelatin in the hot milk mixture and strain in a heatproof bowl.

Lightly oil 3 each, 125ml dariole moulds or ramekins. Place on a tray and pour in cream mixture, then place in the refrigerator for 4 hours. Reserve a few strawberries & raspberries and blend lightly. Brush this mixture on a plate before placing the panna cotta on top. Decorate the plate with berries and micro greens.

43

February 2019

love potions From the masters of chocolate themselves! Callebaut, the finest Belgian chocolate company, gives you a delectable way to end your Valentine’s Day on a sweet note guaranteed. Visit callebaut.com for more.

Tipur own

ORANGE IS THE NEW PINK • 150ml champagne rosé • Q.S. edible flowers • a few drops orange blossom extract For your liquid homemade chocolate ganache • 900ml milk • 300 ml cream • 900g Callebaut dark chocolate To create liquid homemade chocolate ganache Dose 900 ml of milk + 300 ml of cream and bring near to boiling point.

Dose 900 g of the Callebaut chocolate of your choice.

Pour the hot liquid over the chocolate and mix with a stick blender to emulsify (keep mixer head under surface to avoid bubbles).

Cover and store in the fridge.

To ensemble your cocktail Choose a beautiful cocktail glass and cover the bottom with the ganache.

Fill the glass with rosé champagne and add a few drops of orange blossom.

Photos courtesy of Callebaut

yo Create g ice cubes in h c t a c orange eyed with them e r u o t u p – flav d e m an blosso r glass befor u in yo ring the pou agne. champ

CALLEBAUT’S VALENTINE’S DAY CARAMEL CHEESECAKE 6 SERVINGS BRETON SHORTBREAD • 60g egg yolks • 132g caster sugar • 168g butter • 200g flour • 2g salt • 8g baking soda Mix together and roll out 4mm thick. Bake at 160C for 20 minutes.

SALTED CARAMEL • 250g sugar • 250g glucose • 250g cream Boil together.

• 100g butter • 4g salt • 0.25g Vanilla • 200g Callebaut Finest Belgian Caramel Gold Chocolate Add and mix well. Use at 40C.

CARAMEL CHEESECAKE • 160g butter • 160g sugar • 320g cream cheese • 200g eggs • 0.25g Vanilla Boil together.

• 30g lemon juice • 30g gelatin mass • 180g Callebaut Finest Belgian Caramel Gold Chocolate Add and mix well.

CALLEBAUT GOLD GLAZING • 180g sugar • 180g glucose • 90g water Boil together at 105C. • 2g Sparkling Powder Gold • 300g Callebaut Finest Belgian Caramel Gold Chocolate • 120g sweetened condensed milk • 80g gelatin mass • 100g mirror glaze Mix and pour over previous mixture. Mix well. Use at 40C.

Decorate with some beautiful edible flowers.

February 2019

44

CALLEBAUT CHOCOLATE MARTINI Place the Callebaut dark chocolate in to a bowl with 20ml of cream.

Heat in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds until you have a smooth, creamy chocolate sauce.

Place the bowl in cold water to reduce temperature of mixture.

Pour the liqueurs into a martini shake.

Add crushed ice and the chocolate mixture then shake.

Strain into chilled martini glass.

Add finely grated chocolate to decorate.

• 30g Callebaut 811 Dark Chocolate Callets • 30ml brandy • 30ml crème de cacao liqueur • 50ml whipping cream • crushed ice

S po i l yo u ri t h w Val e n ti n eat e s! c ho c o l fab u lo u s We ha ve a ol ate s to h oc ra ng e of c e one im p ress th y ou lo ve

Healthy eating, fresh locally sourced products and friendly service. Find all your fresh recipe ingredients in store.

3 Quality fresh produce 3 Everyday supermarket items at competitive prices

3 Friendly personal service 3 Convenient and underground parking P 5570 1242 Open 7 days 6am – 10pm 15 – 17 Via Roma, Isle of Capri info@greenergrocer.net

45

February 2019

GET IT I LOCAL PROFILE How did the creation of #instalovers – Digital Dating, DM Disasters and Love Stories come about?

I started researching how we now court and connect on social media and dating apps about four years ago. I was traveling back and forth to America to appear on tv shows with my other six books. I noticed it was a real ‘norm’ to be on Bumble or Tinder and in Australia there was still a stigma associated with it. Yet, friends had been falling in love and getting married off the apps and so after a couple of years of shelving the idea, I decided to revisit it! It felt timely. Dating apps are now rife but nobody gave us a book of rules with it all, so I created one!

Was writing this type of book something you wanted to do for a while?

I’m a wellness expert and health professional with credentials in food, lifestyle and wellness coaching and I owned a wellness centre for 13 years. Wellness is my life’s work and passion. I’ve written six other books with a theme around natural living, but one thing is constant: connectedness. I observe culture and social trends and wanted to create something that’s relevant and this was it. Nobody was talking about healthy relationships and modern dating, so I felt it was my responsibility to. I partnered with Moments vegan condoms to help me with the strong message of being protected and prepared because you need to #knowyourworth.

What's been the most challenging or rewarding experience throughout the whole process? Furthermore, was the process different this time?

Self-love was the biggest theme in this and it’s not different to my others when we look at it from this perspective. To have a healthy relationship with others, it needs to start with yourself. Josh Metz, who was the marketing director of Tinder for five years, wrote the foreword and noted that I’ll teach you not only how to “swipe right for more than one night”, but also be a “better version of yourself.”The most challenging thing was learning how to be safe. That’s my favourite chapter called 'Weed out the Weirdos'.

What's the best career advice you've ever received?

Love when you’re ready, not when you’re lonely. Oh! You said 'career' advice! All my jobs have taken on a crusade of such, because I believe you should do jobs you’re passionate and sincere about. Jobs will always have their challenges. You’ll give up when things get tough, but if you love it, you’ll never give up! I work 25 hours a day and eight days a week but I’m never feeling like I’m working. Even when I was 16 and worked three jobs, I remembered my vision ‘to entertain and inspire’. My work ethic is strong. I always tell my son,“success happens to those who are willing to do the things others aren’t.”

What's the best relationship advice you've ever received?

Love freely is my mantra.“Be happy” were my February 2019

Falling love inwith ANDI LEW

Surfers Paradise girl Andi Lew has conquered the world of wellness coaching and publishing. Now she’s ready to make her mark on the dating world

“Dating apps are NOW RIFE but nobody gave us a

BOOK OF RULES

grandmother's parting words to me.

Take your time. We live in a swipe life with it all, culture and want it all so fast. Slow it down and make sure you’re actually compatible, not just with chemistry or on a physical level but make sure you’re on the same page on every other level too. Women, there’s no rush to settle down just because you feel your biological clock is ticking. There are other ways to be fertile naturally. I fell pregnant first go at age 37. I can help you Having been featured on Good Day New with that too. Focus on being well and having York amongst others, what’s the next certainty. It’s attractive! step in your goals and plans?

What’s on your agenda for 2019?

That was one of the best shows I presented I’m taking #instalovers to America for a press on. I was able to report my prediction for tour. We are looking at turning the book into a wellness trends. I’d like to continue creating show too! connectedness during this social revolution.

so I created one!”

46

GET IT I SOCIALS

GETSCENE

lanie Whiteley Caroline Marshall, Me and Jenny Gaylard

Rachel Hayse and Merran O'Sullivan

is Lassig Ashleigh Payne and Chr

Mondi Stewart and Tayla Heinrich

Elke Rosen and Mary Saville

n and Samantha Robertso son der xan Ale e Jasmin

Kimberly Stevens and Kylie Lines

AQUIS LADIES DAY Aquis Park’s Gold Coast Turf Club started off the new year in style, turning on the glitz and glamour for Aquis Ladies Day on Saturday January 5. An exclusive Woodford Reserve Women in Whiskey Experience was held for the first time with 50 female racegoers taking part in the inaugural event. They learnt about the history of whiskey, took part in a guided tasting and then created their own bespoke summer cocktails.

Mark Barnes and Donna Kramer

Photographer: Bevin Rijkaart from Lightcapturer Photo Services

Natalie Ogbourne and Jared Gilsenan

Bianca Bruce and Brogan Press

social media

If your business is not embracing

it’s being left behind!

Let us handle your social media platforms so you can focus on what you do best: your business!

More affordable than you think and tailored for your needs!

Set up, make over and management options available.

Email Leanne today! leanne@getit-magazine.com.au

47

February 2019

GET IT I SOCIALS

GETSCENE Marija Nesovic, Barbara Prestia and Kamakshi khurana

Aarti Bajaj and Dr Pawan Bajaj Dr Jyoti Ravikumar, Saeesha Ravikumar, Aarti Bajaj and Mona Bhasin

Aarti Bajaj and Dr Sonu Haikerwal

Hemant Mundra, Ritika Mundra, Chhaya Pema and Monica Pema

MEERA’S PRIVATE CAST CELEBRATION Aarti Bajaj, director of Wild Dreamer Productions and the stage spectacular MEERA, held a cast party for a private screening and party with family and friends at the Queensland Academy of Health Sciences on the Gold Coast, January 11. It was a celebration of the tireless efforts, passion and love put into the performance of MEERA, a love story about an Indian princess told to a sold-out audience of 1,100 at the Home of the Arts recently.

Photography credit: Helen Selmeczy.

da Aarti Bajaj and Vahini Pan

Gayle Alessio and Joanne Rahn

Joanne Rahn, Ingo Rahn, Valentina Rahn and Andreas Rahn

How important are

online reviews?

Only as important as your business’ reputation!

Manage what your customers are saying about you online!

Boost your visibility online and be ranked above the competition!

Email Leanne: Leanne@getit-magazine.com.au

February 2019

48

GET IT I SOCIALS

GETSCENE

ivel, ee Polden, Zoe Scharengu Manuela Whitford, Ren s ma Tho a and Am na, Julia McKen

Beck and Brian Ward

n Bretag Margaret and Warre

Janelle Tzoumanis, Julia McKenna and Vicki Kersey

Tony and Marilyn Ialacci, Joanne and Ingo Rahn

FRIENDS WITH DIGNITY INAUGURAL MAGICAL GALA CHARITY BALL Heading into 2019 in an empowering way, national domestic and family violence support charity, and Australian Charity of the Year 2018, Friends With Dignity hosted its Inaugural Magical Gala Charity Ball at the Southport Sharks. An inspiring evening was had by all, topped-off with powerful messages and a spectacular backdrop to farewell 2018. The fourth round of the Friends With Dignity Little Friends Scholarship Program is now open, and closes February 24.

Michael Bennett and Donna-Leigh Perfect

Manuela Whitford, Ivor Saywell, Ross Rickard andZoe Scharenguivel

January 2019

take me ON THE GOLD COAST

Subscribe to Get it Magazine, the Gold Coast’s favourite monthly magazine.

MADONNA WIL LIAMS Yoga powerhouse and all-round wonder woman

What’s your number?

Find out how Australian women are fighting ageism

JUST $59

to receive 12 exciting issues for the year.

PHONE 1300 858 932

sales@getit-magazine.com.au

49

HEALTH to make this your ICE best year yet

THE KEY to KETO and a healthie r YOU!

BEAUTY & ADV

Say hello to 2019!

February 2019

GET IT I TRAVEL

Fall in love with La Mer

slice of paradise found just two hours north of the Gold Coast, Noosa Heads is the romantic destination of your dreams. A favourite for visitors from all parts of the globe, the calm, protected bay of Noosa’s Main Beach, and the endless riverways that divide the boundless kilometres of untouched bushland, make it one of Queensland's most beloved tourist destinations. An idyllic place to stay during your time there is La Mer Penthouse.

Located in the exciting hub and heart of Noosa’s café society, Hastings Street and its luxurious boutiques, cosmopolitan dining and stylish ambiance, La Mer Penthouse is ideally situated. Close by for those after some adventure is Little Cove, which offers over 26 kilometres of spectacular walking trails along the coast of the Noosa headland. Don’t forget your swimmers and to explore the many secluded beaches along the way! When you’re ready to relax, take in La Mer’s Noosa Main Beach and Laguna Bay views from your private balcony or make use of your fully-equipped kitchen and retire to the comfort of your master bedroom.

When choosing accommodation, Accom Noosa is a one-stop shop with over 100 accommodation options ranging from beachfront apartments, stylish boutique hotel suites and stunning homes. Their helpful, friendly staff will use their local knowledge to ensure your choice of accommodation allows you to enjoy all the superb holiday opportunities Noosa has to offer.

Book your getaway today!

Phone: 1800 072 078 Email: info@accomnoosa.com.au Visit: accomnoosa.com.au

NOOSA Escape to Paradise Noosa Main Beach Penthouse

s ad Mentioncethivie a and re

e n g a p m a h C HamE DpIeNIrNG +$50 FIN HER VOUC

• Two level luxury • Direct beach access • 3 spacious bedrooms • Gourmet kitchen

You deserve this...

Book your 2019 Escape now! FREECALL on 1800 072078 info@accomnoosa.com.au • www.accomnoosa.com.au February 2019

Mention “GETIT” on booking. Valid for New low season bookings staying a minimum 3 nights or more in 2019. *Terms and conditions apply.52