Galway Now Jan/Feb 2023

TIDES

MANAGING & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Patricia McCrossan patricia@goldenegg.ie

FINANCE & SALES DIRECTOR

Patrick McCrossan patrick@goldenegg.ie

EDITOR

Donna Reidy-Maguire editor@goldenegg.ie

ART DIRECTOR

Jennifer King design@goldenegg.ie

DIGITAL EDITOR

Trish O’Sullivan digital@goldenegg.ie

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Deirdre Tarpey sales@goldenegg.ie

STAFF CONTENT CREATOR

Erin Grant erin@goldenegg.ie

ASSISTANT CONTENT CREATOR

Dearbhla McCrossan

DESIGN ASSISTANT

Maria Bru design@goldenegg.ie

The Gratitude Call

Instead of starting out this year with a list of things that I’m going to do or not do, I’ve decided to take an entirely different approach.

I met the lovely Sarah Jane Toibin from Evoke on a recent press visit to Malta. Each day her alarm would sound at 11.11 am. This was her signal to stop for a moment and think about her intention for the day. Mostly she used it as a reminder to take a moment or two to be grateful for all she had, a type of gratitude call. What a great idea. Since the trip, my 11.11 alarm call is my daily reminder to stop and take the time to appreciate all I have.

So although I generally have great intentions starting off each year, it has regularly proven to me that it is not the best time to start something new. Instead, my intention for this year is to take time to appreciate life, my family and friends, the nature around me, 23 years of GALWAYnow, the friends I have made through it and our expanding Galwaynow family. This month I welcome back our editor, Donna, following maternity leave and the birth of her second daughter - cumhacht do na mná.

Sean McCormack @seanmcfoto

Artist Shane O Malley Image Julia Dunin

Model: Katie O’ Brien

Photography: Emilija Jefremova @emjcamera

Suit: Maje, Brown Thomas Galway

Makeup: Aoife at MAC

Brown Thomas Galway

Location: Galway Rowing Club

Katie O’Brien and Damian Browne

CONTRIBUTORS

Kenneth Keavey

INSPIRED

PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS

From Galway and the West of Ireland

Rachel Dubber is a Contemporary Irish artist from Galway. The intention is that each piece is a valuable treasure designed to be loved and used every day. They are sustainable, recyclable and reusable, in theme with Rachel’s commitment to sustainability.

Rachel Dubber racheldubber.com | @rachel_dubber

Taking inspiration from the ever changing, wild landscape and colours surrounding her, Joanna Mitchell weaves contemporary slow textiles on a traditional floor loom using carefully selected natural fibres. Some of these yarns are naturally dyed using foraged and homegrown ethically sourced plant extracts and indigo.

Founded in 2019 by Laoise Leahy, By Leahy is a fine jewellery brand designed and handmade in Galway. Capturing stories through personalised fine jewellery, By Leahy is the next chapter in a story that started three generations ago. These designs are made to be enjoyed every day and, in time, passed down through generations to come.

Joanna Mitchell of Lusnameala lusnamealahandwoven.ie | @lusnameala_handwoven

Laoise Leahy of By Leahy byleahy.com | @byleahy

Darryl Vance is an artist living near Oranmore, Ireland. Employing the qualities of paint, the tropes of painting, and the physicality of the handmade, he creates bold, uneasy and challenging interpretations of the art object. Senses of home, security, history and identity incorporate aspects of his immigrant experience to drive expression across painting, drawing, sculpture and creative collaboration.

Daniel Gill danielgillfurnituremaker.com

Daniel Gill has been making fine furniture from his Kiltullagh, Co. Galway workshop since 2005. Daniel makes contemporary interpretations of 19th century classics. Always striving for perfect proportions and elegance, each piece is meticulously constructed from the first shaving to the final coat.

Darryl Vance darrylvance.com | @darrylvance_artwork

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE

Shane O’Malley

Shane O’Malley is a Galway based artist who explores a world of colour, form and symbols through painting. His work combines dedicated studio practice and awe-inspiring public mural art which adorns homes and a vast expanse of outdoor buildings. Regardless of where Shane’s work is presented, it offers a sense of perspective, peace and reflection.

As a child, Shane was always creating things and would spend hours drawing. In 2001, he began exploring graffiti culture, eventually inspiring the signature strong use of colour seen throughout his work. He reflects on its importance, ‘Graffiti then and now has been a huge influence in my life. Over the years, this has evolved to painting more character-based street art and large geometric murals.’ His choice to work with colour and geometrical shapes has further been inspired by the German art school “The Bauhaus” and the teachers who taught there. He says he liked the order, the flat block colours, the hard-edge lines and the modern aesthetic of the style. Inspiration is

further drawn from Art History and the wider Graffiti community. He says, ‘The work of Kandinsky, Josef Albers, Robert, and Sonia Delaunay and, more recently, the work of graffiti artists Felipe Pantone, OS Gemeos and Barry McGee has inspired me. We are all connected via social media, which can, at times, inform and validate how I view some of my paintings. I’m not sure if social media is a totally positive experience, but it gets my work out to a larger audience.’

Shane’s process involves exploring methods of breaking away from traditional canvases, challenging routines, and stepping out of his comfort zone while simultaneously enjoying the process. He notes, ‘I like

finding a balance between the grid which creates a system of order to work in, and then being playful as I try to break free from the control of that system.’ He continues by sharing his recent pursuits with this, ‘I've been exploring breaking the traditional plane or square canvas and working with new forms as canvases. Usually, paintings start with a rough sketch in my sketchbook or a digital image created on the computer. Then I draw out the idea on canvas and build the painting with acrylic and spray paint. Sometimes you get into a habit of making work in a certain way, there is comfort in the habit, which makes it hard to break.’ Galway has also played a major role in Shane’s work, having first visited here thirteen years and then made it his home. The location of this coastal city offers a spectrum of colours and light which he values. He says, 'I think the light in the west of Ireland is lovely. It can be quite grey and dark during the winter, so you become aware as the light changes when the sun comes out. Being by the sea, the sunsets and sunrises are beautiful and contain a lot of interesting colour combinations.’

Bringing work of this nature and scale to life is both a mental and physical task, with rewards and challenges. ‘Painting can be an amazing experience when the process is more meditative or playful, and it can be a challenge too, as parts of painting can be quite labour intensive. You have to figure out ways to overcome the mental blocks, and the struggles are part of the process, which leads to growth in new areas.’ Artwork such as this often has a different social and environmental impact in different spaces. ‘The thing I like about murals is that every wall is different, and its place in the urban area gives it context. I like to use natural lines of the wall I am painting to create flow lines, so the mural fits better in its environment. I also like that depending

on the time of day or how the sun hits a mural it can really change how the colours pop off the wall.’

Committing to being a full-time artist has been a challenging but rewarding path for Shane. ‘I left my job in 2016 and started focusing on being a full-time artist. It took a few years and many hours spent working in the studio for it to come together, but I’m very happy and grateful to be where I am now, making a living creating paintings and painting murals. Like everyone, I’m being affected by the increase in energy prices and the cost of living. I have a new baby on board, which has also put things into perspective. I am more conscious now of how I use my time.’ Shane also reflects on the support he has received through the Agility award from the arts council, which allowed him to spend time in the studio and take part in a painting mentoring program with UK based Turps Painting School, which helped develop his painting practice. Shane says, although it isn't always easy, 'Every few years, there is a commission or project that makes me reflect, and I think that I’m very grateful to do what I love. Having paintings displayed in the Dean Galway Hotel was a great feeling, and being commissioned to create a painting that was developed into a building wrap on No 12 Dawson Street, Dublin, was a recent highlight.’

Obtaining a state of flow when painting is what Shane aims for above all else. This offers a reflective space for himself and, hopefully, others. ‘I always see painting as a reflective experience both for me creating the work and for the viewer experiencing it. The flow state is a space which I aim for when I paint, and as I work, I don’t focus too much on what the viewer will feel when they look at a painting, but I do hope it will be an experience that takes them out of the struggle of everyday life for a second or two.’

For new artists emerging into the creative sector, Shane assures that if you are prepared to work steadily, in time, you will reap the rewards. He says, ‘If you put in the work and remain humble, with time and a lot of patience, opportunities will come your way.’ Over the

next few months, Shane plans to keep his head down in the studio, embrace his practice and prepare for new work. ‘With the help of a mentor, I have been able to evolve my painting process to explore new spaces, which has been extremely rewarding. I am looking forward to sharing new work with people.’

SHANEOMALLEYART.COM

I don’t focus too much on what the viewer will feel when they look at a painting, but I do hope it will be an experience that takes them out of the struggle of everyday life for a second or two.

CHANGING TIDES

Shirt and Shorts: Samsoe Samsoe, Dress (p.14): Maje, All Brown Thomas Galway

Makeup: Aoife at MAC Brown Thomas Galway

Location: Galway

Rowing Club

WORDS BY ERIN GRANT | IMAGES BY EMILIJA JEFREMOVA | DIRECTED BY PATRICIA MCCROSSAN

Galway athletes Katie O’Brien and Damian Browne go against the current and embrace a more rewarding approach to goal setting. We spoke to them about endurance, self-awareness, family, and maintaining hope when the tides change.

Katie O'Brien

@katie_o_brien_

Accomplished professional athlete Katie O'Brien is an award-winning rower representing Ireland in the PR2 W1x category. Katie rowed for UCD Rowing Club and now rows in her home county of Galway at Galway Rowing Club. During the A Final in the World Rowing Cup in 2013 in Eton, Katie finished in an impressive 6th place. Katie went on to win the bronze medal at the 2019 World Rowing Championships in Linz and, in 2022, cruised to victory during the final of the PR2 single sculls at the World Rowing Championships in the Czech Republic. If this wasn't impressive enough, Katie has also won gold at the Henley Women's Regatta and the Home International Regatta.

Sport was always a number one priority for Katie. Growing up, she says she tried everything available and loved how it made her feel. ‘I played everything I could when I was in primary school; camogie, football, soccer, and then as I got older, wheelchair basketball and horse riding. Both my siblings were the same, taking part in everything available'. Katie's first love was horse riding, 'I got a great buzz out of it. I used to love the feeling of being in the air flying over jumps, especially cross country. The adrenaline rush I received was exciting.’ In 2013, however, rowing took centre stage, and Katie set her sights on competing at the highest level. She remembers how it unfolded, 'I got involved with rowing after watching the Paralympics in 2013. I emailed them to see how I could get involved and was told about a talent ID day which I went to at UCD. Then, I was asked back to a rowing camp, and the rest is history!'

As a Paralympic rower with Spina Bifida, Katie says that she has never known any other experience of the world, it has always been part of her life and who she is, 'I never knew any different, I didn't, and don't know what life is like without it! Surgery and hospitals have always been part of my life.’

Katie's support structure was formed from an early age. 'Living in Clarinbridge has been fantastic. It couldn't be a more supportive parish, no matter the endeavour. I have amazing friends here as well as some of my biggest supporters. I spent a lot of my youth in the fields, playing with neighbours for hours and hours, and I had a brilliant childhood.' Katie believes her family has always been her guiding light and is the foundation of her success. 'My Mum and Dad both played very different but integral roles in my upbringing. I owe them a lot. My Mum was a primary school teacher until she retired this year, and my Dad was a business owner, but he passed away from cancer when I was 16. My brother played with Connacht Rugby until two years ago, and when he had to retire due to injury, he moved to Dublin to work and study

mindfulness. My sister Aoibhinn is a full-time vet who is also working in Dublin. I'm so lucky I can call my brother and sister my best friends. I couldn't live without them.'

Today Katie rows with Galway Rowing Club. She acknowledges those at the club who were integral to her beginning in the sport and speaks fondly about the atmosphere the club offers. 'They are such a great club. We have all walks of life as members of our club and an ever-growing para rowing team! There's always a great atmosphere around the boathouse and great craic and banter. I have had the support of some amazing coaches over my career, especially GRC members Mike Gaffney and Conor Moloney. Pete Heany, another Galwegian, played a vital role in my early rowing career.' If her achievements in rowing weren't impressive enough, Katie is also a qualified vet. 'I trained to be a vet at UCD. I loved being a Vet, but unfortunately, as a full-time athlete, I just can't fit work around my training schedule, so at the moment, I'm focusing on my rowing career.'

With a momentous list of accolades, Katie knows all about training, perseverance and goal setting. When asked for advice for those struggling with committing to tasks, she notes that it is all about putting things into perspective, 'Write it down! The key is to break things down into small achievable goals and then draw a box for every goal, and tick them off as you do them. The endorphins and rewards you feel are worth it.’

Training is something that keeps her mental health in check. Katie is sent a weekly program consisting of two sessions (sometimes three) daily, with one day off. This routine is what keeps her focused and in a good headspace. 'For me, training keeps my head straight. After every session, I get such a feelgood factor, and I also make sure to chat with my friends or family if I am struggling with anything in particular.' Katie also notes the importance of rest, ‘I think taking time to switch off is also important. I always make time for Netflix and coffee dates with friends to unwind.’

For her, Galway offers a lovely balance of work and play, with plenty of opportunities for both, 'I love how small Galway is. I love that you can't walk down Shop Street without bumping into someone you know. It's also just a beautiful County, and of course, the people are just serious craic.' As for the next big goal on Katie's list, she is currently working to qualify for the Paris Paralympics 2024, and with the City, County, and Country behind her, we are sure that she will reach new heights and continue to inspire others to achieve their goals.

Damian Browne

Damian Browne is consumed by a passion and purpose to pursue his potential. Many of us will remember him from his exceptionally impressive, accomplished and formative career in rugby. Damian is also a renowned mentor, speaker and adventurer. Most recently, the world closely followed his journey with Project Empower as he became the first man to row unsupported across the Atlantic from New York to Galway.

Transitioning from 112 solitary days at sea and then arriving home to hundreds of people welcoming, chanting, and filming you at Galway harbour, is not for the faint hearted. Although he was grateful for the support, Damian reflects on the impact of this, ‘I have to say it wasn’t easy. I found that first 48 hours quite odd, but after that, it’s been a slow wean back into society. Acclimatising himself to life on land, meant that he was looking forward to the little things, which were put into perspective out at sea. ’A huge complement of your thought process when you’re out there is around everyday events and actions. A lot of the long endurance adventures that I do are low-level states of discomfort, so what comes up in your mind are the low level states of comfort which you crave. A cup of tea, sitting on the couch, taking a shower, and not having to row eleven hours a day, all these things pop into your head. When you return, you’ve been almost pining for these things, so you have a deeper sense of thankfulness for them, which makes life more enjoyable.’

During his time in the Atlantic, Damian was also away from his loved ones, including his partner Rozelle and young baby Elodie. This took a great deal of work, communication, and planning prior to setting sail and the magnitude of distance was constantly apparent. ‘No matter what happened, it was an incredible journey away from them. It wasn’t as if I could hop

on a plane tomorrow and be anywhere in the world within probably 48hrs. Even if that ship comes to me and picks me up, it still has to travel half the Atlantic to get me to where they are. Emotionally, the understanding I had of the reality of that, was very difficult. The toll these expeditions can take on their relationship had been felt previously when Damian climbed Everest, and they were determined to learn from that this time around. ‘There were times when it was really challenging for us as a couple and as a family, but I would say we managed it very well. The big piece in this is trying to keep a strong connection with Rozelle while we were separated for such a long time in extreme circumstances. She was working and parenting full-time, which is incredibly challenging and what I was doing was also incredibly challenging, so keeping that connection strong was really important. Before I left, I wrote eight letters to Rozelle and she was to open one each week. In that letter, there was also a card and twenty photographs from our time together. We also shared voice notes through WhatsApp, and I made singing recordings for Elodie to help her sleep at night while Rozelle showed her videos of me and explained that Daddy was rowing the ocean. When we were reunited, it was a magical time and has been that way since.’

We might not all have climbed Everest or rowed the ocean in the literal sense, yet we have universally experienced incidents which have taught us how to move forward, grow and develop so that the next task we undertake feels somewhat lighter. For many, starting can be the hardest part and when committing to a task that you are passionate about fulfilling, Damian shares his strategy. ‘First things first, the outcome will depend so much on what it means to you. If you are doing something for the wrong reasons, that will impact your

"

I have a philosophy that life is a fight, a beautiful fight, but a fight nonetheless.

success. The key is to take full responsibility for whatever it is and not abdicate that in any way. Try to be the driver at all times and have an overview of all components. Whether the goal is small or not, the process is still the same. Then, it’s commitment, which can be done in two different ways; a verbal contract with yourself, or you can write a contract with yourself to hold yourself responsible. When you’re struggling to take the first step, or the next step, you can reread it to give yourself some drive to get past the resistance. The next phase is to plan. I like to reverse engineer those things, see the end goal, and work backwards from there. Finally, the hardest part is putting in the work, and the last part is persevering.’

As we plan our goals, internal resistance will raise its head. Damian says that this resistance is a good thing, and it’s what we do with it that matters, ‘Building association with the internal resistance in yourself and seeing it as a good thing which tells you you’re on the right path is paramount. You can use that association to keep going and it’s important to remember that everything is practice.’ Encouraging others to hone these skills is important to Damian, and when asked why he continuously pushes himself to new limits, he says it is because of the rewards he reaps, ‘Placing yourself in states of difficulty and dealing with your worst self removes fear. You can then reach a point where you can take whatever comes at you. The deep contentment I have got from practising and pursuing my potential continuously gives me very rich and positive rewards. Life isn’t easy, but this can give us the tools to make the journey easier. I know everyone hears about the struggles people go through mentally and emotionally, and for some people, that can get to a point where they see no way out. With this in mind, I feel the need to pass on what I

have learned, and even if it touches one person, that’s enough.’ Finally, Damian acknowledges the power of practising vulnerability and how it can better shape us as people, both individually and collectively. ‘There is great strength in vulnerability. It is often misunderstood as a weakness, but when you expose your vulnerable side, the power that gives you is incredible. The more we can do that, the better for us and those we touch around us. We communicate on many levels, and the person who exposes themselves to their vulnerabilities is vibrating in a way that communicates beautifully to others’. When asked about the link between vulnerability and masculinity, Damian notes, 'The road to embracing it is not clear for young men. I would openly admit I didn’t have that skill in my early teens, but what I had was the purpose, and that was the driver that helped me move forward.’ Finally, he finishes by noting what keeps him focused, ‘I have a philosophy that life is a fight, a beautiful fight, but a fight nonetheless. I believe you need to have a mentality to take it on because otherwise, it can eat you up and spit you out. Within the fight, I seek values that will stand to me, like courage and patience, and self-awareness, which is one of the most important attributes for navigating life. Having that mentality sets you up to tackle the trials and tribulations which lie ahead.

THE SUSTAINABLE EDIT

MILLARS CONNEMARA

millarsconnemara.ie | @millarsconnemara

For well over a century, Millars Connemara has been trading in Clifden, Co. Galway. Steeped in tradition and style, Millars continues to excel as one of the most superior stores of its kind. Millars stock a variety of slow fashion brands that use ecological and sustainable materials, such as Elemente Clemente, who have committed themselves to ethical principles and reject

exploitation and child labour in their supply chains. Another favourite in store is Ecoalf which offers high-end recycled products with the same quality and design as their non-recycled counterparts. Millars also stock a variety of local Irish designers who use natural, renewable and sustainable materials, such as McNutt, Niamh Daniels, Clare O’Connor and Debbie Millington.

THE SUSTAINABLE EDIT

EMERALD AND WAX

emeraldandwaxdesigns.com | @emeraldandwaxbyvirtueshine

In her latest collection, the lush softness of Irish tweed has been meshed seamlessly with beautiful and vibrant African Batakari prints to create distinct, sustainable, one of a kind hand-made pieces. This pairing reflects Virtue Shine’s own journey of being born in West Africa, living in New York, and rooting in the West of Ireland. The

Batakari or ‘Fugu’ fabrics used are hand-woven by women from thick strips of cotton threads constructed on large looms in the Northern region of Ghana. Incorporating this fabric provides a source of income and independence to these women and ties in with Emerald and Wax’s ethical ethos.

THE SUSTAINABLE EDIT

NUMBER EIGHT - NEW & PRELOVED

The Cornstore, 8A, Cross Street, Galway | no8.ie | @numbereight.ie

This environmentally conscious designer concept store stocks preloved and new clothing and accessories from brand names that you know and trust. Gillian Quinn began this business in 2009, bringing preloved luxury fashion to Galway. “By supporting the preloved market, you are making a difference to the environment and saving money. There’s nothing more exciting than spying a designer handbag that's either limited in stock or something of significant value that you may never have the opportunity to buy again,” says Gillian.

The circular fashion economy is the most conscious way to shop in the 21st century. Hundreds of billions of garments are sold each year and most end up in the trash.

Number Eight stocks a range of designer clothes and accessories, including some of the most loved exclusive brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Prada. Email no.8.galway@gmail.com or DM them to discuss selling your designer clothes and accessories or treat yourself to that Prada purse by visiting the store.

THE SUSTAINABLE EDIT

STANDUN

Spiddeal and Oughterard | standun.com | @standunireland

Known for quality Aran knitwear and woollen goods, including the stunning selection of wool throws and scarves from Irish brands such as McNutts of Donegal and Foxford Woollen Mills, Standun has always promoted Irish clothing and giftware. Wool is a long lasting and a sustainable resource and is at the core of the Standun brand.

With the growing trend towards sustainability, the team have introduced new eco-friendly brands across all departments, including; Thought Clothing, Eco Style (Colourful scarves made out of recycled plastic), Roka London Bags and Rita Oates Artists scarves and cards.

100% Merino Wool Aran Cardiagn €99

The Trish Murphy Memorial Award Recipients 2022

Through their incredible strength and courage, both Siobhan and Suzanne have ensured that this world is infinitely better for hundreds of families across Ireland. They work tirelessly to ensure that support is available and that no one will face a difficult journey alone. They both build a legacy in the memory of someone extraordinary and embody everything that this award represents.

Siobhan Carroll ACT for Meningitis

ACT for Meningitis is a national support and awareness charity based in Galway that is working to save lives through greater disease awareness while providing free support services to anyone in the country who has been affected by meningitis. Set up in 2011 by Siobhan and Noel Carroll following the loss of their daughter Aoibhe to meningitis, aged 4, ACT has seen first hand the importance of meningitis awareness. ACT believes no one should ever have to face the meningitis journey alone and is here to support you and your family within your community.

actformeningitis.ie | @act4meningitis

Dr Suzanne McClean Rosabel's Rooms

Originally from Dublin, Suzanne is married to Gary Monroe, and they have three children, Ruben, Rosabel and August Rose. Suzanne is a Counselling Psychologist who, having worked in the charity sector for over twenty years has recently established a private practice in the Galway Clinic.

In April 2017, Suzanne and Gary's beloved daughter Rosabel, aged 16 months, died suddenly and unexpectedly in her home in Galway. In memory of their little girl, they established Rosabel's Rooms, a child loss the project, working in collaboration with Irish Hospice Foundation. Rosabel's Rooms provide direct financial and therapeutic support to families who lose a child from stillbirth or neonatal death to 21 years of age, irrespective of the circumstances surrounding their

death, e.g., SIDS, pre- existing conditions, childhood cancer, road traffic accidents, death by suicide, etc.

Rosabel's Room-to-Heal fund provides financial support to families in Ireland, enabling them to take time off work to grieve and help with funeral costs and the needs of other surviving siblings. Through Rosabel's Room-to-Talk fund, individual and couple therapy is provided to families impacted by child loss. This is free of charge and is available in every county in ROI.

Through the design and dignity program at the Irish Hospice Foundation, Rosabel's Rooms are also working towards the development of family-focused bereavement suites in emergency departments around Ireland. The first Rosabel's Room in UHG is currently in use.

@rosabelsrooms | hospicefoundation.ie

Making a Difference

Network Ireland Galway’s new President invites women to stand up, step out, speak up and be counted to #MakeADifference for 2023.

WORDS BY SUZANNE RYAN

Network Ireland, the association for women in business, is celebrating 40 years in 2023, and it is a wonderful opportunity for people to get involved here with the local branch in Galway. With over 120 members from all professions, it acts as a resource and support network for women who are Company Directors, Managers, Employees and Sole Traders. There is something for everyone as the outline for the year will offer company visits, site tours, lectures, social gatherings and lots of opportunities to develop skills, make connections and make lifelong friendships.

Ihave been a member of Network Galway for the past three years, and during that time, I have benefitted from insights, many professional connections and friendships. As incoming President, I know that many strong women have paved the road before me and act only as a steward of the chain. I am grateful for having a strong and diverse committee to assist me and be a voice for all members into the next year. “This is not about me. This is only about me as a representative of an organisation that is for the members, to the members.” I am excited about all the opportunities for engagement, representation and collaboration that are to come and understand firsthand the benefit the National Awards can give, having been Highly Commended in 2020.

When Network was established back in 1983, it operated in a very different space, particularly for women in business, where opportunities were harder to come by, and it was more challenging for people to connect. Today, everything we do is about networks. It’s how we are wired as people. We have social networks, home networks and work networks, so why join a professional network? The role we play, how we show up in society and what we can achieve is magnified when we are supported by others. My goal for 2023 is to create a foundation of support with solid building blocks of similar thinking women who are powerful

and invincible. Network Galway is a place where we can embrace our differences whilst also sharing our commonalities. We encourage uniqueness, embrace diversity among our members, and encourage growth and development.

After three tough years where women took on additional responsibilities and challenges it is time now for them to emerge, like the Phoenix and #MakeADifference. This has been chosen as the mantra for the year ahead in encouraging women not to be afraid, to believe and to instil confidence in themselves to achieve positive results in their areas of work, home and personal lives. The philosophy of change, evolution and growth which underpins our activities are the same as in nature; we either grow or die. Network Galway is part of a thriving list of branches all over the country, given the recent success of two local women who were awarded National Businesswoman of the Year accolades. It has proven that the West is indeed awake. Over the next year, the focus will be on bigger events with speakers and showcases that members can attend, engage with and learn from. This will also be coupled with ongoing informal get togethers and catch ups throughout the year.

The Presidency will be open, honest and transparent, with a strong committee with voice and impact. This impact stretches to a social and societal good with the collaboration with the team at Cope Galway, who have been chosen as Charity Partners for 2023. This will offer an opportunity for Network members to assist and impact the invaluable work that is being done in Galway across different groups and communities, such as working with older persons, homelessness and in domestic violence services.

The open night for new members is happening on Wednesday, January 25th, in The Connacht Hotel at

7.30 pm. This will be a wonderful opportunity for new members to learn about Network, meet some new and familiar faces, get to know the committee and learn about the year's event schedule and those

lucrative Awards. On the night, Pauline Rohdich will be offering a free in-person Masterclass on Becoming All You Can Be in 2023, through assistance with goal setting and allowing success in all areas of your life and business. Network Galway is the resource and support for women in business in 2023. We are looking forward to seeing you at our upcoming events.

networkireland.ie

Committee Members

Asumpta Gallagher, Vice President

Gemma Ní Chionnaith, Secretary

Michelle Ryan, Treasurer

Mary Pat Kavanagh, Website Officer

Dorothy McDonagh, Social Media Officer

Giada Labrecque, Events Officer

Hazel Curran, Membership Officer

Treasa Hanniffy, Ex Officio

"This is not about me. This is only about me as a representative of an organisation that is for the members, to the members"

ELLEN TUFFY | DOWN SYNDROME LIMERICK

WINNER of the Power Within Category sponsored by Fishers

Ellen Tuffy is the Chairperson of Down Syndrome Limerick. She has over 20 years of experience in healthcare but has spent the last three years working voluntarily for the charity. Ellen advocates for the rights of people with Down syndrome to ensure their needs are met and their full inclusion in society. downsyndromelimerick.ie

ASUMPTA GALLAGHER | BEST PRACTICE

WINNER of the Solo Businesswoman Category sponsored by Meta

Best Practice was established by Asumpta in 2018 to help Doctors who choose General Practice to navigate the many challenges associated with running a healthcare business and managing staff. She does this through tailored consultancy services and staff training. These services allow GPs more time to be the Doctors they want to be. bestpractice.ie

LORRAINE BURNELL | JOSEPH MURPHY BALLINA LTD

WINNER of the Employee - Shining Star Category sponsored by Mckenna

Lorraine Burnell is Managing Director of Joseph Murphy Ballina Ltd - a provider of wholesale agriculture, gardening, household, and DIY products. josephmurphy.ie

YVONNE COMER | RUGBY SMARTS

WINNER of the STEM Professional Category sponsored by Bloom in a Box

Yvonne is the CEO and Co-founder of RugbySmarts, which automates video analytics for sports using Artificial Intelligence, computer vision, and machine learning. She is a former Irish Rugby International and current IRFU Board member. rugbysmarts.com

Meet the HIGHLY COMMENDED finalists in the Established Businesswoman Category sponsored by Network Ireland's National Partner AIB

ORLA CONNAUGHTON | AZTEC MEDICAL

Orla Connaughton, B. Mech Eng., MPM, PMP is a regulatory affairs professional who established Aztec Medical Ltd. to provide regulatory, clinical and quality management support to the MedTech industry. Her desire is to provide strategic and practical advice to clients to ensure that medical technologies reach patients and clinicians as efficiently as possible. aztecmedical.com

TANYA RYAN | FIADH AND FINN

WINNER of the Creative Professional Category sponsored by Galway Now

Tanya is an Irish artist and illustrator living in Kildare. Having a lifelong affinity for art, Irish nature, and a love of interiors, Tanya created Fiadh and Finn to make unique Irish personalised art gifts. She created a collection of original illustrations in traditional watercolours, depicting Irish animals, birds and plants surrounding her in the countryside. fiadhandfinn.ie

SÍNE DUNNE | SIEST SLEEP

WINNER of the Emerging New Businesswoman

Category sponsored by Enterprise Ireland

Síne Dunne invented the new sleep product, a weighted Siest sleeper. Engineered to help calm a racing mind and improve side sleeping for snoring and sleep apnoea. Ex-Google, Síne is currently studying sleep at Oxford University. She is passionate about helping people reduce dependency on sleep medication and sleep naturally. siestsleep.com

SANDRA LOONEY | TO HAVE & TO HOLD

WINNER of the Established Businesswoman

Category sponsored by AIB

Following a successful career in the corporate world, Sandra realised her lifelong dream of opening her own business in 2013. Sandra saw a gap in the market for a dedicated, full-service, end-to-end wedding planning and styling business, so she took the leap and To Have and To Hold was born! tohaveandtohold.ie

AOIFE BEHAN | THE MONTENOTTE HOTEL

WINNER of the Employee - Rising Star Category sponsored by Sherry FitzGerald

Having graduated from University College Cork with a first-class honour's degree in MSc Management & Marketing in 2018, Aoife gained experience in various industries from Hospitality, Food and Sports Wellness. She is currently the Digital Marketing Manager at The Montenotte Hotel - a vibrant, family-owned, design-led, boutique destination hotel in Cork city. themontenottehotel.com

ANDREA FARRELLY | SKIN AND BODY WORKS

Andrea, owner of Skin and Bodyworks Navan and Ratoath. She is an expert skin and beauty professional who loves bringing the best treatments and technology to her clients—constantly growing and striving for the best. Andrea has worked in the Beauty industry for over 15 years and is very passionate about skincare. skinandbodyworks.ie

NEW PROFHILO TREATMENT AT THÉRAPIE CLINIC The Injectable Moisturiser

Europe’s No.1 laser and skin specialists, Thérapie Clinic, are pleased to announce the launch of their latest treatment, Profile, which is available at their Galway Clinic.

Dr Paul Reddy, Medical Director at Thérapie Clinic, explains what this revolutionary treatment does, “Profhilo is an injectable hyaluronic acid treatment, known as the injectable moisturiser. It is a super hydrator that improves skin quality and treats skin laxity. Profhilo is produced in a special way which means not only does it hydrate the skin, but it also triggers a response in the tissue known as ‘bio remodelling’, which helps create new collagen and elastin to combat the

signs of skin ageing such as lines and wrinkles, crepiness, and dull, thinning skin. Profhilo can be used in combination with other treatments or as a stand-alone treatment. Profhilo works on the skin quality rather than the muscle movement which causes wrinkles or for the loss of volume in the face.”

Profhilo has the highest concentration of Hyaluronic Acid in the market. This innovative new treatment is available both for areas of the face and the body. Results can be seen within 3-5 days after treatment. The maximum effect of Profhilo is usually seen 2 months after the second treatment.

Profhilo at Thérapie starts at €295 for one treatment.

LOOK AFTER YOUR SKIN

with a friendly expert

Maintaining healthy, problematic-free and beautiful skin can be challenging. In her Beauty Room in Galway, Eva Doszczak uses her expertise to help her clients achieve naturally beautiful and healthy skin.

Eva is an experienced, fully qualified beautician and make-up artist. Her qualifications and knowledge gathered during 20 years of professional practice and her friendly personality make her a favourite skin expert for many. Constantly updating her knowledge and skills by participating in courses and beauty forums, Eva provides treatments tailored to customers' needs and offers home skincare advice to ensure long-lasting effects.

Her holistic approach allows her to achieve spectacular results by applying the proper treatment and looking at the causes of the issues associated with a health condition, lifestyle, or diet. As a make-up artist, Eva is aware of the importance of enhancing one's natural beauty, especially for special occasions. Her creativity in the field has meant she has worked on various artistic, film and commercial projects.

Individual Approach

In skin health, Eva applies an individual approach to her clients. It is based on the understanding that our skin is an important organ that performs various vital functions. It protects our body, thermoregulates it, and is our utmost external layer communicating with the outside world. It is exposed to multiple external factors such as weather, environmental pollution, and the cosmetics we use. It responds to our medical conditions, medications taken, hormonal changes, and dietary habits and reflects the body condition and physiological changes associated with age.

Problematic Skin

Eva specialises in treating problematic skin, which can be difficult to heal or have various overlapping issues. Separate skin problems such as rosacea, acne, dryness, increased sensitivity, etc., can overlap or morph into another over time or in reaction to various factors. The

method to treat such skin is to identify the specific issues and choose treatments and products that allow the skin to soothe and gradually heal.

Eva's approach of applying an individual treatment yields fantastic results. Her work is valued by the customers, and the companies Eva collaborates with.

Recently Eva Beauty Room was invited by Nanili Professional to join forces and become one of their Skin Expert Salon.

Professional Skin Expert Salon

In 2022 Eva's Beauty Room proudly became a Nanili Professional Skin Expert Salon which gives it direct access to state-of-the-art solutions for problematic and sensitive skin.

Nanili Professional created a range of professional cosmetics that can be selected and combined according to the specific skin condition and the stage of treatment. They were created in collaboration with cosmetologists and dermatologists to provide intensive care and solutions to skin problems without side effects such as irritation or skin thinning.

The set consists of various chemical acids, enzymatic peeling, masks, serums, creams, tonics, and gels. They contain valuable active ingredients that address specific issues and stimulate multiple aspects of skin behaviour. Their strength lies in the flexibility and interoperability of the individual formulas. They are suitable for younger and mature skins.

A key aspect of Nanili Professional is home care. It is seen as an integral part of the treatment. It aims to amplify the results and ensure a long-lasting effect. The philosophy behind Nanili Professional aligns perfectly with Eva's modus operandi, and the results are astonishing.

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS OF BASILICO RESTAURANT

To understand the journey of Basilico Restaurant Oranmore, you have first to explore the climate and context under which they opened in 2008.

A serendipitous meeting between the Coach House owner and Fabiano Mulas and Paolo Sabatini at a restaurant in Salthill led to a journey of many amazing experiences.

Opening in February 2008 against the backdrop of the property crash was a brave move that led to a very successful business model in the heart of Oranmore.

The menu at Basilico has been an evolution from the beginning. Paolo Sabatini tried the Italian purist route with his menu but quickly realised that a menu needs to cater for the majority and therefore quickly adapted to offer a mix of good authentic Italian specials and more local traditional Irish food and this has been a winning combination. This ability to adapt and stay current and passionate is what is at the core of their success.

At Basilico, the team is the key factor and the familiar faces of staff that have been with this restaurant for years is testament to their dedication to a positive working environment. It is nice to be recognised and for a business to remember your name or your favourite drink. Simple things like a good quality napkin, a table cloth, a good glass, and the right spoon all elevate a dining experience.

Over the last 15 years, they have created a business where family occasions are at the heart of what they do. From Christenings to Confirmations, to first dates, engagement parties, boutique weddings, friends meeting up and also the sad partings of loved ones they do it all so well. This attention to detail in service and presentation assures their customers a consistent and

reliable dining experience. Since day one, Basilico has worked with local suppliers and they continue to work in that way today. Their dedication to quality continues on their own farm and is centred around growing and offering their customers fresh produce, which is delivered daily.

Approaching their 15th anniversary in February 2023 is a huge milestone for them. They have withstood the prevailing changes and risen to each challenge. Basilico is planning a series of celebrations to mark this wonderful achievement, including the continuation of their very successful Food series, which is a gastronomy tour of the regions. In February, as part of their celebrations, they will also host some surprise events, and we look forward to celebrating this momentous achievement and the year ahead with them in style.

BREAKFAST Club

OLIVE TREE KITCHEN

Flooded in natural light from the floor to ceiling windows, Olive Tree Kitchen, located at Wildlands Galway, offers amazing views as you look out onto their aerial trekking and zip-lining courses. Devour this visual feast while enjoying the best that Galway food has to offer. The team prides themselves on providing nourishing cuisine which is freshly prepared each day in their kitchen using locally sourced ingredients and food from their vegetable patch. wildlands.ie @wildlands_galway

ARMORICA

With their winning combination of high quality French cuisine and a strong focus on using the best local organic produce, it’s no wonder that Oranmore based restaurant Armorica was awarded 'Breakfast of the Year' in 2019 by the McKenna's Guides. Relax in their inviting interiors, enjoy comforting and wholesome food, listen to live Jazz, book an overnight stay on the wild Atlantic way and experience everything they have to offer while a dedicated and knowledgeable team looks after you in style. armorica.ie 091 388 343

CORRIB HOUSE TEA ROOMS

This beautifully restored historic Georgian townhouse is located on the edge of the Salmon Weir in the heart of Galway City. Uninterrupted views of the spectacular River Corrib can be enjoyed from almost every window of the house. Their unique and elegant tea rooms offer a delicious range of breakfasts, lunches, cakes and treats with speciality teas and gourmet coffees available. Corrib House Tea Rooms is one of the best spots for a great breakfast or brunch.

corribhouse.com @corribhousegalway

REVIVE CAFÉ

Revive Café is well regarded for its food and coffee and has recently become the go to place for breakfast in town. Revive offers a breakfast menu which is cooked to order, including everything from the beloved Full Irish with soda bread and potato farl, eggs benny, sweet and savoury pancakes, moreish granola, veggie hash and much more. With Garry and the team starting early in the morning, you can be guaranteed that their now famous scones and muffins selection are all fresh from the oven. They also have an outdoor patio for those brave enough to enjoy breakfast al fresco.

revivecafe.ie 35 Eyre Street, Galway 091533779

One Pot

Winter Warmer

With Lou from @littloucooks and Green Earth Organics

Galway based chef, Lou from @littloucooks, uses fresh ingredients from Green Earth Organics to create sustainable healthy, delicious organic meals, using seasonal freshly harvested organic ingredients.

Lou visits the farm regularly to understand the seasonality of the food. Getting local seasonal produce means better flavour and taste, and it is better for you and for our planet. Encouraging more and more adults and children to cook and putting vegetables back at the centrepiece of our tables is her passion.

One Pot Red lentil Dhal with Root Vegetables & Flatbreads

INGREDIENTS

350g red split lentils

1 tbsp oil

2 medium carrots, dice small

2 medium parsnips, dice small

2 medium onions, diced

4 cloves garlic, grated

2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

1 tbsp mustard seeds

1 tbsp ground cumin

1 tbsp ground coriander

1 tbsp turmeric powder

1 tbsp paprika

1 tsp chilli powder

1 bay leaf

1 tbsp brown sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tins chopped tomatoes (800g) 300ml veg stock or water (add more water if needed)

Serve with boiled rice, freshly chopped coriander, yoghurt and freshly popped pomegranate seeds

A nourishing bowl of goodness that’s full of flavour. The widely known and loved Indian Dhal is very economical and is made mostly of lentils and spices. It’s ideal for batch cooking, portioning and freezing for future dinners. It’s also great to make, with rice and flatbreads to feed a crowd. Pack in the nutrients by adding seasonal root vegetables to the sauce.

1. Begin by adding the red lentils to a large bowl, give them a wash by rinsing in cold water a few times, and then discard the water.

2. To a wide pot add the oil and diced onions. Cook for 5-10 minutes and add the grated garlic and ginger and cook for a further 5 minutes. It is really important to cook the onions until they have completely softened for sweetness and flavour.

3. Next, add the spices, mustard seeds, cumin, coriander, paprika, chilli, brown sugar, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Let these cook for 5 minutes. Let the spices toast to release their flavours. If the spices catch on the bottom of the pot add a splash of water.

4. Add the diced carrots and parsnips, then add both tins of tomato, swirl out the tins with a dash of water and add this to the pot.

5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to allow the veg to soften.

6. Pour in the red lentils and veg stock, and bring back to a simmer. Then reduce the heat and cook on low heat for 30-40 minutes stirring every few minutes to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

7. Check that the carrots and parsnip are fully cooked.

8. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. If it seems too thick, loosen it with water.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE FLATBREADS

300g plain flour

50g butter

185g milk

1 flat teaspoon salt

1. Measure the flour and salt into a mixing bowl.

2. Warm the milk and butter in a small pot. Allow to cool for a couple of minutes.

3. Add the warmed milk and butter to the mixing bowl and work into the flour using a fork. Get your hands in the bowl and bring the dough together. Turn out onto the worktop and knead the dough for a few minutes.

4. Roll into a sausage shape and cut into 5 even pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and put them on a plate. Cover with a clean tea cloth and set aside for 30 minutes. Warm a frying pan on the hob.

5. Dust the worktop with flour and roll each ball into thin, round flatbread. Repeat with the other balls. You want the pan to be medium to high heat. Put the first flatbread on the pan, and cook for around 1-2 minutes. It should bubble up, then flip to cook the other side and press it down with a spatula if it puffs up. There should be little brown spots on both sides.

6. Keep the cooked bread warm in a clean tea towel. You can stack them. The moisture helps to keep them soft. If you like, you could brush with oil, melted butter or garlic butter!

Organics is based on its own organic farm just outside Galway city and delivers fresh and healthy organic food and a range of groceries nationwide each week.

Green Earth

LYNNE

WORDS BY CONOR BIGGINS | @TRIPOD_DESIGN

Lynne O’Loughlin is a prominent member of the Galway Design scene. Since founding Tripod Design in 2014, her interior design studio has quickly made its mark in Galway city with an impressive portfolio that spans both residential and commercial projects. She’s a lecturer at ATU, triathlete, and mother to triplets, and on top of all of that, she’s firmly dedicated to bringing creatives from all backgrounds together in the West.

Tell us about your creative journey.

As a child, I was always interested in drawing, and growing up in a family of creatives encouraged me to pursue a fine arts degree in Limerick. The only issue at the time was I needed to submit a portfolio, which I had no experience doing. I opted to attend a portfolio making course after secondary school to help create my submission for college. It was my best decision and gave me my first introduction to interior design. In 1999 I graduated, specialising in printmaking. This led to me becoming a lecturer at ATU, and 20 years on, I’ve come full circle, returning to interior design. It’s been a big journey from fine arts to graphics, and now interiors but so many design principles overlap in these areas, it’s really what gave me a solid understanding of the creative process and how to plan and execute larger projects.

What is your design process?

It starts with listening, a lot of listening. I approach design from a user-centered standpoint, meaning I focus on my client’s needs for a space before I design anything. I find how they see the room being used now and in the future. Will the space need to become a workspace? Perhaps a second home for an elderly parent? From here, I start conceptualising the space, gathering visuals and exploring various layout options. I look for ways to give my clients more than they imagined, a little bit of flair beyond functionality. I will include a few key pieces that could work for a room. These could be pieces of furniture my clients already own or key recommendations. Once a design is settled, 3D models and renders are created.

Each project stage is reviewed with the client to ensure it’s going in the right direction and fits their lifestyle. It’s important to me that the client is involved in each project stage. Their thoughts and little tweaks are very important. After all, they will live in the final product, making them part of the process.

Finally, the artwork is so important, oftentimes, I see newly designed spaces being let down by generic art, usually due to price restraints rather than taste. Lecturing at ATU has allowed me to cross paths with many talented artists. I feel very unique in this aspect as it’s allowed me to match artists with suitable clients. It’s a win-win for everyone, the client gets authentic pieces at a good price point and a new artist is supported.

What is your design philosophy when it comes to interiors?

I help clients find their own stories and ways to bring the stories through their homes. I encourage people to get rid of the items that don’t really matter to them and replace them with a few considered pieces they can identify with. Fill your surroundings with high-quality pieces you would want to pass on to the next generation. This can be done by taking time to find items that are unique and bring you joy. It’s so important, not only for a home but for your mental wellbeing overall. I try to pass this philosophy on to clients, encouraging them to take time to find their own stories and ways they can cultivate it.

You’re a lecturer, mother of triplets, triathlete and running a design studio. When do you find your calm?

Whenever people ask me this, I always tell them you can find it very early in the morning. My alarm goes off at 6 am; no matter the weather, I train. I did this even after my triplets were born, they would wake up around this time, and once I’d put them back to bed, I would go for a swim or a run. I find there’s a lot of clarity at this time—there are no phones ringing, no one is looking for you, and you’re not on social media. It’s a tough thing to start but very liberating, and the reward is a sense of clarity that continues throughout your day.

Any advice for those looking to grow their creative side?

If you’re going to be creative, you need to find a space or way of clearing your head. A healthy mindset has a massive effect on a person’s creativity, which I teach my students.

Get up early, get some exercise, and it will snowball throughout your life. But it also comes from other areas of your life. Another way is to replace clutter in your home or workspace with items that bring you joy. If your workspace is clear, your head will be clear.

Start to take an interest in art and discover what you do or don’t enjoy. Listen to what you feel, not what others say. When I work with new clients, I encourage them to find their artistic style and interests by visiting galleries and showrooms available to them. I’ve had quite a few clients who’ve done this and come back as real art critics. It’s a positive cycle—when you expose yourself more to art, it becomes easier to connect with and activate your creative side, encouraging you to seek more.

How would you like to see the design culture in Galway grow?

I’d love to see more opportunities for fine art graduates to stay in Galway. With more residencies, workshops, galleries and spaces for design to be showcased, Outset Design in The Cornstore is a great example of this. Galway has so much design and artistic talent, but the opportunities haven’t been here. ATU now offers so many *creative courses* and graduates leave these without the opportunities to practice here, they move away. In the next few years, I’d like to see Galway step up and give graduates access to the tools and equipment they need. The interest is definitely there, I run design networking events throughout the year, and they’ve had great turnouts, which ultimately leads to more growth and conversations about what’s next.

Conor Biggins is a designer in the West of Ireland specializing in highend interiors and furniture. To get in touch or for more information, please visit www.conorbiggins.com

Care IN THE COMMUNITY

Providing a high level of care and independence for their residents is of the utmost importance to these local caregivers. They are also dedicated to ensuring that a broad range of activities and interests are made available to residents, contributing to an enjoyable, safe and comfortable living situation.

Affordable Live-in Homecare

We all want our elderly relatives to get the best possible care ideally in the comfort of their own home. There are many private visiting care agencies which offer home care, but this service can be very expensive, inconsistent and unsettling. ALHomecare is a great alternative to a nursing Home or a private visiting care service has placed over 1,000 live-in carers nationwide since 2014, with outstanding success. ALHomecare carers live with the client in the client’s home. They are also present at night for the client’s comfort and reassurance or in case of an emergency. For further information, please visit www.alhomecare.ie or phone Manager Tom Quinlan on 087 744 0729.

Right at Home

Right at Home is an approved care provider in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. Their Care Assistants assist clients with personal and practical care, mobility, medication, picking up prescriptions and companionship. Carer Breda Pagett from Moycullen has been crowned Right at Home's 2022 Carer of the Year. The Awards celebrate and recognise the outstanding work and commitment of care staff who play an instrumental role in their communities. 091 376536 rightathome.ie/galway

Moycullen woman crowned Right at Home’s Carer of the year.

MALTA THE MAGIC OF

With its central location in the Mediterranean and excellent flight connections from Dublin and Shannon, Malta is the perfect destination for a short break. Whether you are into culture and history, love good food and wine or want to jump on a bike and explore nearby Gozo for a day, Patricia McCrossan reveals why Malta is exceptional.

Valletta

St. John's Co-Cathedral

The iconic, golden hued, limestone walled capital city of Malta was established in the 1500s on a peninsula by the Knights of St. John, a Roman Catholic order. It's known for museums, palaces, and grand churches. A stunning city where modern architecture blends seemlessly with the old. Caravaggio's masterpiece, the Beheading of St. John, can be found in St. John's Co-Cathedral, whose opulent interior is filled with coloured marble tombstones, frescoes, and numerous treasure-filled chapels. Don't be deceived by the fairly ordinary exterior. The inside of this church is spectacular.

Upper Barrakka Gardens

The gardens are the perfect spot to view the full extent of Valletta's harbour and over to the Three Cities. Now a public garden, it was originally the private garden of the Italian Knights, whose residences lie close by. You can explore the Valletta Waterfront below the Upper Barrakka Gardens. When there, take a 'dghajsa', a typical Maltese gondola-shaped boat, to explore the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. It's an inexpensive and delightful way to explore Valletta.

The Three Cities

Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, with their harbour inlets, have been in use since Phoenician times (1500–300 B.C.) and are an impressive sight from Valetta harbour. As the first home to the Knights of St. John, the Three Cities' palaces, churches, forts, and bastions are far older than Valletta's. We enjoyed a fun tour of all three cities using self-drive electric cars called The Rolling Geeks. These cars come complete with pre-programmed GPS that not only takes you on the perfect tour but also explains the history of where you are. Rollinggeeks.com

Casa Rocca Piccola

A living museum, the small palazzo, Casa Rocca Piccola, was built in 1850. Apart from being a unique attraction in the centre of Valletta, Casa Rocca Piccola is still privately owned and a much-loved family home to the noble De Piro family, who reside on the top floor.

Rubino

There is no shortage of great restaurants and bars in Valletta. Rubino bistro started life in 1906 as a confectionery shop, serving, among other things, Cassata Siciliana – which it still offers today. We had lunch in one of the three traditional rooms and indulged

in classic Maltese and Italian dishes.

Charles & Ron Cafe

If you prefer a more contemporary setting and dont mind heading out of town, fashion designer duo Charles & Ron have created a space that blends fashion and food. Bags, silk scarves, perfume, and their latest collection are showcased over two floors and in the adjoining cafe, which is the perfect spot for a delicious lunch or a signature cocktail. Charlesandron.com.

The Corinthia Palace

This centuries-old restored villa that offers elegant and sumptuous afternoon tea. The spacious hotel and spa have a dining room and lounge, both opening to the stunning gardens. corinthia.com

Dinner with a View

Recently awarded the Michelin Plate, The chophouse is considered one of Malta's leading restaurants. Located in Sliema, the spacious terrace boasts breathtaking harbour views of Valletta. We dined on succulent steaks and fish, grilled on what is considered Malta's largest all-charcoal grill. The exquisite menu has a mix of Maltese and European dishes, including indulgent desserts and wine from the large glass-fronted 'cave' that stocks over 300 wines.

Lunch in Marsaxlokk

The Fishing Village of Marsaxlokk is well-known for its many decorative painted boats called 'luzzu' and its Sunday market. While you can visit any day during the week and find a smaller version of the market, the Marsaxlokk waterfront is in full swing from the early hours of Sunday morning, when the local fishermen bring in their catch to sell at the famous market within Malta's favourite fishing village. If you go early enough, you can see the unloading of the fresh seasonal catch: swordfish, lampuki, octopus, shrimp, or whatever it may be.

We had lunch at Tartarun, a Michelin Guide restaurant with a daily changing selection of cooked whole fish and other more modern, imaginative seafood dishes. Originally built and still standing on the original structures of three boat houses, it is now an elegant but relaxed restaurant with impeccable service. It delivers the very best in dining by the sea. tartarun.com

Mdina The "Silent City"

The walled city of Mdina, with its mix of medieval and baroque architecture, fortified walls, and its strategic location on a large hill in the centre of Malta, makes it one of the most magical places to visit on the island. Mdina has a small population of around 250 people who live in many of the old palaces within the city walls.Mdina is called the "Silent City" as no cars, except those of its residents, have permission to enter Mdina. Stunning and relaxing in equal measures, its narrow streets offer a respite from the more commercial tourist areas of St Juliens and Valletta.

Ta' Betta Wine

Overlooking a terrace with stunning scenery of Maltese countryside, Ta' Betta Wine Estates is situated about six minutes drive from the medieval city of Mdina. In 2002 Astrid and Juanito Camiller set about researching and developing the estate wines, which they launched on the market in 2019. Ta' Betta has benefited from these years of research, and you can see many of the vintages in the estate's cellar. History dictates that the King of Spain passed Malta to the Knights of St. John in 1530 for a single peregrine falcon a year. A string of Grand Masters

spanning three hundred and fifty years gave Malta stature, each Grand Master leaving his distinct mark. Today, after more than twenty years of careful planning and attention to detail, Ta' Betta has four wines named after four Grand Masters. tabetta.com

Gozo

Gozo offers a wealth of things to do, mainly around its stunning coastline. Separated from Malta by a 25 minute ferry crossing, Gozo is very different from its big sister, Malta. Steeped in history, Citadels and Churches dot the horizon. The beautiful coastline is lined with cliffs, beaches and small fishing villages. It's much quieter and less urbanised than Malta providing a more relaxing experience.

The Citadel in Victoria

All roads in Gozo lead to the Citadel in Victoria – a beautiful fortified town and the capital city of Gozo. Research shows settlements have been on the same hill since the Neolithic period. That's no surprise since it's one of the most central hilltops on the island, with commanding views in all directions. The view from the bastions is breathtaking.

Sannap Cliffs

Situated on the southern coastal side of the island, which is one of the highest points, the Sannap cliffs offer a magnificent view, especially at sunset, all the way to Xlendi bay.

Ix-Xlendi Bay

A popular swimming, snorkelling and diving spot, we stopped off for a quick swim in its warm shallow waters of Ix-Xlendi Bay. Because of its reef formations, ix-Xlendi is an ideal diving site, even for beginners. This typical Gozitan fishing village has a good selection of restaurants, bars, and hotels.

Qbajjar Salt Pans

On the north coast of Gozo are the Qbajjar Salt Pans. These 350-year-old salt pans stretch about 3 km along the coast. They are part of the centuries-old Gozitan tradition of sea salt production that has been passed down within certain families for many generations upholding an ancient trade and skill, whilst harvesting one of Gozo's essential natural raw materials – Salt.

Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu

In 1883, a woman from the village of Għarb heard the voice of Our Lady at the small chapel of Ta' Pinu that occupied this site. It rapidly became a pilgrimage centre, and visitors soon overwhelmed the little church. Today's monumental shrine to Our Lady of Ta' Pinu is an architectural masterpiece, especially inside, with its superb sculptures and craftsmanship in Maltese stone. The original chapel remains intact behind the altar and still contains the painting of the Assumption to Heaven of Our Lady, from which the voice is said to have spoken to Karmni Grima.

The ferry crossing to Gozo departs from Cirkewwa and takes approx 20mins. Our group of 6 traveled to Gozo on a Tuk Tuk driven by an experienced island navigator. Yippee Malta operates TUK-TUK TOURS tuk.yippeemalta.com

Where to Stay

We stayed in The Intercontinental Hotel which is located in the prime area of St. George's Bay in St. Julian's, just seven kilometres from Valletta. The hotel has 481 elegantly furnished rooms, various restaurants, and bars, and the leisure facilities include three pools, a kids club, a Fitness Centre, a spa, a beach club, and room service. In The Opal Lounge, guests can avail of an al fresco garden breakfast from 7 AM – 10:30 AM along with access to the entertainment room that includes Playstation, Billiards, Board Games, and movies with the latest Netflix selection. Located on the 19th floor, the Skybeach Bar and Restaurant provides all those enjoying the hotel's suites with private and intimate attention whilst offering pure comfort and enjoyment, including the Skybeach Rooftop Pool. Non-suite guests can avail of The Skybeach facilities at an additional cost.

Our tour guide for our visit was Darrell Azzopardi #malta.

@VisitMalta #MoreToExplore

Baby ON BOARD!

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH A TODDLER

BY TRISH O'SULLIVAN

Taking those first early family trips with young children is an amazing adventure filled with lifelong memories. There is nothing more enjoyable than experiencing new places through a toddlers eyes. However, flying with a toddler can also be a daunting prospect. It takes a lot of patience and requires setting realistic expectations. It's a holiday, just not as you once knew it.

Going into the journey with the understanding that you will be entertaining your toddler the entire time is a great place to start. Gone are the days of the leisurely airport vino or kicking back on the flight with a good book. There's the deviation from your normal routine, unpredictable travel schedules, overstimulation, potentially cranky kids and lots more to contend with. Even for the most travel-savvy amongst us, journeying with small children requires almost double the preparation of an adults-only trip. With the right tools and distractions you will not only survive the flight but you will come out the other side thinking it wasn't as bad as you had anticipated.

Toddlers want to constantly move and explore their exciting new surroundings. They know what they want and they are not afraid to tell you. The thoughts of trying to keep these tiny explorers contained quietly to a seat for the duration of a flight can seem like an impossible task. As the old saying goes, every child is different but the below tips were of immense help to us while travelling abroad with our two year old for the first time last Summer.

STOCK UP ON SNACKS

Bring snacks - all of the snacks. If you think you have brought too much, it is probably still not enough. Half of our snack stash was gone before we even got on the flight with airport delays and waiting time. Snacks are the ultimate toddler currency. They provide the perfect distraction and are the ultimate bribe so do not skimp when it comes to snack packing.

BURN OFF SOME ENERGY AT THE AIRPORT

The airport is a fascinating place for a toddler and is the perfect place to burn off some of that boundless

energy before boarding the flight. Get in lots of walking and plane watching before it's time to take your seat.

WAIT FOR EVERYONE ELSE TO BOARD FIRST

Airlines will nearly always call those with small children to board first. However, minimise the time your toddler must spend in their seat by waiting for everyone else to board first. If you are worried about securing coveted overhead space, send your travel partner, if you have one, to board first with any carry-on luggage.

MANAGE TAKE OFF AND LANDING

Take off and landing can affect little ones ears, manage this with chewing snacks (see - they really are the toddler travel MVP), sucking on a bottle or straw and distract them with activities.

ALTERNATE BETWEEN ACTIVITIES

Toddlers' attention spans are notoriously short. Pack a selection of toys and activities to alternate between. We found things like colouring books and stickers particularly effective at passing the time. Pack a tablet pre-loaded with their favourite show for when you need to bring out the big guns. Cocomelon to the rescue!

PACK SOME NEW TOYS

Pack some small new toys and activities they haven't seen before for ultimate distraction. The novelty factor should keep them busy for a little longer. With some new toys, bring their favourite teddy from home to comfort them when they inevitably get upset.

TRAVEL WITH A CHANGE OF CLOTHES

Toddlers are messy and are guaranteed to have spills, spews and sticky fingers along the way. Travel with a change of clothes for you and them and a hefty supply of wet wipes.

TRY TO BOOK CONVENIENT FLIGHT TIMES

Where possible, try to book flight times that work with their sleep/ nap schedule and accept that for short haul flights, any sleep is a bonus. Avoid super early or super late flights and factor in travel time to get to your accommodation when you reach your destination.

Above all else, stay flexible and don't overthink it. The flight is only one small part of an amazing experience for you and your little one.

VALENCIA’S Wine Trail

The wine-growing region of Utiel-Requena produces a variety of wines renowned and revered across the world. Patricia McCrossan recently combined a stay in the vibrant city of Valencia, with a four day tour of the “route de Vin”, a cultural gem in the region.

Utiel-Requena

Located just 68km west of Valencia city, the Utiel-Requena wine appellation is the largest in the Valencia region. The vineyard surface is approximately 35,000 hectares with approx 20 wineries. The name for the wine appellation was borrowed from two neighbouring towns of Utiel and Requena. This large region has been almost exclusively dedicated to the cultivation of vineyards for over 2,500 years during which time its unique climate and geographical landscape paved the way for uninterrupted winemaking.The most dominant grape variety is Bobal.

To fully understand the historical, cultural and ethnological heritage of winemaking in the area, a visit to the underground cellars in Utiel and Requena is a must. Both have hundreds of underground cellars that come, to a large extent, from the reuse of old medieval passageways. In Requena we visited Cuevas de la Villa, and in Utiel, Bodegas Subterraneas. A few hours spent in these stunning caves excavated under very modest homes gives a sense of how valuable wine was for the local economy. bodegassubterraneas.com cuevasdelavilla.com

Bodegas Utelianas

With a quick visit to the local wine cooperative in Utiel, Bodegas Utelianas, you get a sense of the deep-rooted, intense and extensive wine tradition in Utiel. Utiel Agricultural Cooperative was created in 1927 and still continues to be one of the main economic activities in Utiel and its region. The construction of the current 17,000 m2 facilities began in 1945. With a capacity of more than 30 million litres, it was the largest in the Valencian community and the second largest in Europe.

bodegasutelianas.com

Casa Rural La Parra 1923

If you want to immerse yourself in rural Valencia, then staying at the newly renovated farmhouse, Casa Rural La Parra 1923 is highly recommended. The structure of wooden beams, hurdle roofs, stone walls, mud floors and exterior wooden enclosures have been retained. The outbuildings are now luxury selfcontained accommodation and the stunning courtyard with its

Neleman Wines

Our last visit was to Bodegas Neleman, an exclusively organic wine producer. Neleman’s mature vineyards are in the hills to the east of Valencia at Casas del Rey. They are on small land terraces surrounded by olive and almond trees and the Parque Natural de las Hoces del Cabriel. It’s where Dutch wine lover Derrick Neleman brings a modern approach to the craft of winemaking whilst honouring the spirit of the old vineyards in the region. Neleman mainly farms indigenous varieties like Verdil, Tardana, Bobal, Monastrell, Marselan, Tempranillo, or Garnacha, varieties which hark back to the origin of Spanish wine. neleman.wine

large barbecue and outdoor dining area make for a very pleasant afternoon of paella cooked and wine from the nearby family run winery. laparra1923.com

Rodolfo Valiente of Bodega Vegalfaro has strived to develop a distinctively personal wine style at Vegalfaro, always built around organic practices and the willingness to combine tradition with innovation. The name Vegalfaro comes from a combination of the word “vega,” meaning a lowland meadow or stretch of alluvial soil, with the historic name of their winery property, Casa Alfaro. Bodegavegalfaro.com

Pago de Tharsys

Built on an old flour mill, Pago de Tharsys, is a winery offering guests both the wine experience and accommodation. Pago de Tharsys stands out for introducing unique and innovative products to the market including Night Harvest of Albariño, the blanc de noir “Tharsys Único”: a sparkling wine made from bobal, a sweet wine made from a rare grape called Bronx produced by the ancient technique of over-ripening the grapes in the sun. Pago de Tharsys is also widely recognized as one of the very top producers of Cava. In fact, owner Vicente Garcia, is considered “the Godfather of Valencian Cava”. pagodetharsys.com

Chozas Carrascal

If there is one connection that the wineries have it’s that the vast majority of them are family run. Bodegas Chozas Carrascal is perhaps the one that stands out for their strong family tradition.

The Chozas Carrascal core emanates from the family, permeating all of the work carried out in the winery. Although the project emerged through the joint passion for wine of husband and wife María José Peidro and Julián López, the origin goes further back in time. A strong relationship between Julián López’s grandfather with the surrounding vineyard and the close relationship between grandfather and grandson was the seed and the idea of creating Chozas Carrascal. The name of the winery bears the affectionate nickname by which their fellow countrymen knew the area, ‘Chozas’. Today it is their children Mariá José and Julián who have taken over the family estate and to whom the future of the bodega falls. The vineyards are characterised by offering small but very select productions, giving rise to the best wines. chozascarrascal.com

It’s not all about “Wine”

Oli Oli Almazara is the first oil mill in the Valencian community with an exclusively organic line. Specialising in the production of a high-end Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) that incorporates traditional knowledge with the latest technological advances and passion. The contemporary building is surrounded by olive trees and vineyards and is located close to the Hoces del Cabriel Natural Park, declared a Biosphere Natural Reserve by UNESCO. A guided visit to the oil mill with a technical tasting session is highly recommended. It was a complete education in the taste, smells and colours of different varieties of EVOOs. The quality of the oils is reflected in the many national and international awards and recognitions Oli Oli have received. olioli.es

Trekking in Hoces del Cabriel

Located in the area around the Cabriel River, which separates the regions of Castile-La Mancha and the Region of Valencia, Hoces del Cabriel nature reserve features stunning geological formations and is the perfect place for a morning trek.

Along the route, you will enjoy incredible views of one of the few virgin fluvial canyons in Spain, which runs through Hoz del Rabo de la Sartén, Tollo del Amor, Hoz de Vicente, and Hoz de Purgatorio. There are very few trails that go as far as Hoces del Cabriel since it is a protected area. This has allowed Hoces del Cabriel to become one of the unique natural landscapes in Spain.

Where to Stay Valencia

We stayed in Hotel Dimar, lunched overlooking the marina at La Marítima restaurant. In the evening we enjoyed a fun cocktail workshop in Only You Hotel, followed by dinner at the stunning Michelin starred, El Lienzo.

Utiel and Requena

We stayed at Hotel El Tollo, Utiel and dined at Restaurante Airpull Aeródromo de Requena and La Despensa de Sofía, Requena

DIARY OF a newly wed

Sinead Watkins and Fergal Costello Celebrated their Weddings in The Village Barn in Tyrrellspass and in Ireland and Lightspace in Brisbane City

Love at first sight

Fergal and I met in 2009 on the Gold Coast in Australia. Fergal travelled from Galway to perform in a professional Irish dance show when I, still living in my hometown of Brisbane, joined the troupe a few months later. What could have just 'stayed on tour' has now ventured to a different hemisphere and has lasted 13 years.

The Proposal

Fergal surprised me during a trip to Paris in 2019 with a proposal under the Eiffel Tower. He suggested we have our picture taken as the tower lit up, and while a stranger took our picture, Fergal dropped to one knee and popped the question. Of course, I said yes.

The Challenge of having two weddings?

Our original plan was to have one destination wedding halfway between Ireland and Australia, but the pandemic forced us to re-evaluate our plans. Our objective, above all, was to ensure we included our immediate family and those closest to us, so the greatest challenge was trying to predict when international travel restrictions would lift. I'm naturally very patient and calm, and Fergal is logical and a fantastic organiser, so we managed to keep our cool and just take it as it came. All we cared about was having our family around us, so the other usual 'wedding' pressures were off.

Having our nearest and dearest scattered across two sides of the globe should have made the guest list more complicated, but it was fairly clear cut who we wanted around us on the days. We've been so fortunate to culminate close groups of friends on our travels over the years, and it was wonderful to have an occasion

to finally unite the different parts of our lives.

The Wedding - Ireland The Venue

We knew from the moment we were engaged we didn't want a traditional wedding and preferred something more relaxed and eclectic, in line with our personalities. The Village Barn in Tyrrellspass was everything we could have hoped for and more. Everything is in one amazing location, rustic buildings oozing with personality. The moment we hopped into the car after touring the venue, we were sure this was the place for us. David and Amy could not have done more for us on the day. They went above and beyond to look after our guests and us.

The Ceremony

Fergal and I don't take ourselves too seriously, so we wanted our ceremony to be light and for our guests to feel very comfortable and a part of the proceedings. We opted for a Humanist ceremony, and our celebrant, Bridget Carlin, knocked it out of the park.

The Food

One of the things that further cemented The Village Barn as the venue for us was when David assured us they were 'foodies' and knew how to play to the crowd with surefire winners on the menu. We opted for sharing platters, allowing our guests to taste a bit of everything and help themselves to as large or small portions as they preferred. Fergal and I were able to select each item on the menu, which was great to be able to create something we knew our guests would devour. Fergal's mum, Mary, sister-in-law Bríd and family friend, Eileen, kindly baked three gorgeous cakes for us, which were happily devoured by all.

Rings Fergal: Fields Jewellers, Sinead: Love by Vera Wang via Signet Jewellers, Kildare Village. Brides' accessories Earrings: Isabel Marant, Shoes: Tony Bianco, Bracelets: Betty & Biddy, Gabsluk. Photographer Ireland: Rubistyle, Australia: Luca and Marcus Ghikas. Flowers Ireland: Forget Me Not Flowers Australia: Boho Bloomhouse . Groom's attire: Boss, Kildare Village. Makeup and Hair Ireland: Makeup - Brigh Egan, Hair - Aileen at Barnby & Brennan. Australia: Makeup - Katie at Officially KMB, Hair - Ben Wright at Rixon Hair. Groomsmen suits Corless Menswear, Galway

The Wedding - Australia The Venue

As we were under pandemic restrictions, my parents kindly viewed venues in Brisbane for us, diligently recording videos and capturing images to share with Fergal and I in Ireland. Lightspace in Brisbane City was a firm favourite with my mum and dad, and after viewing their content and scouring the website and social channels, we felt it was the way to go. An open warehouse-style space with a great mix of contemporary decor and antique furnishings, we knew we could add our own stamp without having to reinvent the wheel. Danielle, our wedding coordinator, was unbelievable in accommodating our queries and requests from across the globe and totally looked after us on the day, keeping everything flowing seamlessly from start to finish.

The Ceremony

We were incredibly fortunate to have a dear family friend come out of retirement to officiate our ceremony. I've known Joyce since I was little and had always hoped she might be our celebrant if I got married one day. Again, it was very intimate and personal, with lots of laughter. Joyce even gave me a moment to wave and say hi to our guests at the start of the ceremony, as thanks to the pandemic, I hadn't seen a lot of people in over 3 years! I was beaming walking down the aisle with my dad, firstly to see Fergal at the other end but also to see my Aussie family and friends in the one place together again at last. My uncle Haydn and one of my high school best friends, Steph, delivered funny readings to round out the occasion.

The Food

We worked with AlFreshCo catering, headed up by Australian-based Northern Irish chef Alistair McLeod, who is an Aussie TV chef favourite. He worked with us over Zoom to discover our preferences and create two bespoke menus (one meat and one plant based) that satisfied our and our guests' taste buds. All ingredients were locally sourced from surrounding areas and expertly prepared. We also served two delicious cake options prepared by a family friend to keep our vegan and non-vegan friends happy.

Style and Design

Fergal and I are both quite creative, he is a Designer by trade (kitchen and furniture), and I am a Visual Merchandiser, so we liked being able to DIY most of our decor. With the task of two weddings in front of us, we were so fortunate to have two venues with their own personalities already firmly in place, meaning we only needed to add selective finishing touches. Green is a key national colour for both Ireland and Australia, so we utilised sage green elements across both events, including the bridal party. My bridesmaids all selected their own individual looks, allowing them to be themselves and best suit their personal style. We also had two amazing florists who absolutely nailed the brief and provided a unique style for each wedding.

Favourite Moment?

Ireland: The moment when Fergal and I entered the reception to see our family and friends together, sitting down at the table and taking a moment together to listen to the buzz and chatter throughout the room, knowing our guests were at ease and thoroughly enjoying the occasion. Australia: Having mine and Fergal's first dance to 'I Will' by The Beatles, then flowing into 'Call it Dreaming' by Iron & Wine for the father/daughter dance. During this, my grandparents were brought onto the floor, and I shared a dance with my grandpa and Fergal with my grandma. My grandparents have been like second parents to me, so after 3 years apart, it was beautiful to share such a special moment together and to be able to honour them on the day.

The Dresses

As a fashion-lover, I was most excited, but also most nervous, to go dress shopping as I wanted something in line with my slightly quirky personal style, but wasn't sure I'd be able to find it. I knew I wanted a slim-fitting dress with a low neckline and open back, as these features suit my figure and hairstyle, but I was fairly open to sleeve lengths and fabrications. When I discovered And For Love on Instagram, I had a very good feeling this was the brand for me, with its contemporary and cool aesthetic. Plus, one of their designers is Australian and a former professional dancer, so it felt like it was meant to be! My veil is very special as it was designed and created by my best friend, bridesmaid and milliner extraordinaire, Emily O'Regan. As she's based in Australia, we shared images over WhatsApp and ended up with an elbow length, polka dot veil with a 60's style bow on top. It was the perfect compliment to my dress and overall style. I bought my dress from Archive12 in Belfast. Claire has a phenomenal selection of contemporary dresses, perfect for more 'fashion' brides like myself.

Advice for Couples?

Don't bow to pressure from any outside parties. This is your day and should best represent you and your other half, whatever form that takes. Also, as a bride, do not feel that you have to look a certain way or conform to any typical bridal conventions if you don't want to. I wanted to look like the best version of myself, and the kindest compliment I received was that I looked like me on the day. Have fun with it, and do what feels right and suits you best.

WEDDINGBliss

BELLADONNA BRIDAL

Belladonna Bridal in Galway is known far and wide for their amazing selection of wedding dresses. When it comes to assisting brides in their search for their dream bridal look, the team at Belladonna Bridal are the true professionals. Their 2023 collection has an incredible selection available to suit every bride, and they also specialise in wedding style for curvy brides. Book your one-to-one bridal consultation with their expert bridal stylists on their website today. belladonnabridal.com

BLACKTIE MAGICIAN WEDDING ENTERTAINER

Close-up magic is an unforgettable experience at any wedding. It is the perfect icebreaker during the reception and provides a fun and enjoyable way to bring different groups together before dinner. Later in the evening, table magic perfectly complements the meal and enhances the atmosphere in the room. David is a true showman and entertainer who will bring his wealth of experience, expertise and professionalism to your special day. Get in touch to discuss package options. 083 1733379

STANDÚN

Standún is a family run business founded in 1946 by May and Máirtín Standún. This landmark establishment is now run by May and Máirtín’s Grandchildren, sisters Clíona & Laragh Standún. Tradition, family and celebration is at the heart of what Standún offers and they are dedicated to providing a wide range of carefully curated gifts and decorative pieces which are perfect for your special day. From luxurious candles to fine jewellery and handcrafted artwork you’re sure to find something new to treasure for years to come.

Visit Spiddal and Oughterard, standun.com or call 091553108

SEI BELLA

Sei Bella is a luxurious hair salon based in Oranmore that prides itself on offering an elegant, professional and relaxing environment. The team is dedicated to providing their clients with exceptional service and are focused on continuously expanding their skills and products to ensure the highest standard of hairdressing. Bridal hair is one of the many speciality services offered at Sei Bella. Choosing Sei Bella for your wedding allows you to rest assured and trust them with one of the most important aspects of your special day. Extensions, colour, cut and styling are also part of the wide range of services which Sei Bella offers. Contact the team for more information 091792163

THE ARDILAUN

Taylors Hill, Galway, 091 519703 Theardilaunhotel.ie weddings@theardilaunhotel.ie

The Venue

Situated amidst stunningly landscaped grounds, The Ardilaun offers an idyllic setting for your wedding photography and drinks reception with award-winning gardens as a backdrop. Wedding coordinator Zara Kelly and her team will be with you every step of the way and give you peace of mind to ensure you will have the most memorable day of your loves.

The Rooms

123 luxury rooms with preferential guest rates available.

The Reason

Celebrating 60 years of making wedding dreams come true since 1962.

The Bill

From €59 per person

BEST WEDDING VENUES IN THE

WEST

THE GUIDE TO THE The Place

THIS MUST BE LOUGH REA HOTEL

&

SPA

Old Galway Road, Loughrea, Co. Galway, 091 880088, loughreahotelandspa.com

The Venue

The award-winning Lough Rea Hotel & Spa is one of the most highly recommended wedding venues in the West of Ireland, County Galway. The four-star venue boasts a stunning ballroom that can hold up to 350 guests. Complete with glass chandeliers, mood lighting, a private piano lounge and a rooftop garden with stunning views over Loughrea Lake, the hotel provides the perfect wedding setting.

The Rooms

Spacious and luxurious with views overlooking the Galway countryside and Loughrea Lake, the hotel’s 91 bedrooms are the perfect retreat for your guests.

The Reason

It’s the small touches and attention to detail that make this Galway venue stand out. Everything about your day is personalised as their wedding manager, Nicole O’Reilly, is there to help you with every part of the planning and not just on your special wedding day.

The Bill

From €59 per person

Are you looking for the perfect wedding venue? To take the stress out of your search, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you find your dream setting. Whatever your style, budget or vision, there’s a dream venue here for you.

THE G HOTEL & SPA

Wedding co-ordinator ‘Valerie Gately. events@theghotel.ie

The Venue

The g Hotel is the perfect location to host your special day. Our glittering Grand Salon becomes the stage for your arrival reception followed by dinner, drinks and dancing in our glorious ballroom, looking out over serene Lough Atalia, shimmering with chandeliers and filled to the brim with everyone who loves you the most.

The Rooms

The g Suite Ballroom can accommodation up to 180 people seated.

The Reason

The g Hotel is famous for being ‘Never Ordinary’ in every sense, however on your wedding day we ensure every aspect is extraordinary.

The Bill

From €85 per person in 2023.

CLAYTON HOTEL GALWAY

claytonhotelgalway.ie 091 721 900

The Venue

Designed to impress, this unique wedding hotel is chic and fashionable. The impressive foyer features marble floors, panoramic windows, a grand piano, and a sweeping staircase leading up to the beautiful, extensive first-floor ballroom.

The Rooms

All 195 guest rooms are furnished with luxurious King Koil mattresses and include free Wi-Fi, large flat screen TV and air conditioning.

The Reason

Seamless coordination of every detail by the Wedding team on your wedding day is guaranteed and proven by the wonderful testimonials received from wedding couples as well as the many awards the hotel have won over the past few years.

The Bill Wedding packages start from €56 per person. Each package includes a host of complimentary extras. Contact the Wedding and Events Manager, Debbie, to find out more. dfoott@claytonhotels.com or by phone on 091 721 904

CONNEMARA COAST HOTEL

Furbo, Galway, Ireland, 091 592108, connemaracoast.ie, Saoirse.holic@connemaracoast.ie

The Venue

The stunningly located Connemara Coast Hotel in Furbo is only ten minutes from Galway and offers the best Oceanside Wedding experiences. Be part of their Wild Atlantic Way Wedding Experience.

The rooms

141 rooms, many with stunning views of the Atlantic, plus a corner Oceanic Bridal Suite.

The Reason

Connemara Coast Hotel is situated right on the Wild Atlantic Way with uninterrupted views of Galway Bay. Featuring Galway’s only Oceanside Outdoor Wedding Gazebo and banqueting for 300 people.

The Bill

From €65 per person.

Katie Higgins & James Conroy

were recently married at St Patrick’s Church, Moylough followed by a magical reception at the Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate in Galway.

Dress: Suzanne Neville in Kadee Bride

Shoes: Jimmy Choo

Rings: Matthew Stephens Jewellers

Make Up: mrsmakeup_ie

Hair: Hair By Emer

Bridesmaids Dresses: Dress Code Ltd

Shoes: Carvela

Grooms & Groomsmen Outfit Details: Eddie Murphy’s

Menswear

Grooms Black Velvet Tuxedo Jacket: EJ Menswear

Flower Girl Dresses: Monsoon

Shoes: Leanai

Photographer: Gary Barrett Photography

Videographer: Bigday.ie

Wedding Cars: U2r1 Wedding Cars

Cake: Eggcellentcakes - Jane Noone

Earrings & all Accessories: Rosie & Dott

Flowers: Milands Garden Centre

Church Decor: Aisle Love You

Venue Decor: Wow Weddings Ireland

Brian Fahy & Rachel Walsh

were recently married at St Columba’s Church Castlegar, followed by a magical reception in The Clayton Hotel, Galway.

Dress: Belladonna

Bridesmaids dresses: JJs house

Hair: Colette Costello

Rings: Hartmanns

Makeup: Sarah Holleran

Music: Claire Igeo

Photographer/Videographer: John McMahon and Er films

Cake: Simple Divine Cakes - Niall

Flowers: Louise from Galway Decor

Photographer/videographer: John McMahon and Er films

Wedding cars: Wedding Cars Galway

Honeymoon location: The Europe Hotel and Resort for a mini-moon

Suzanna Keane & Conor Kavanagh

were married at Claddagh Church and Connemara Coast Hotel.

Rings: Grand Diamonds Antwerp

Makeup: Orla Duffy

Dress: Kadee Bride Athlone

Grooms outfit details: Benetti Suits Bugatti Shoes

Hair: Collette Costello

Bridesmaids dresses: Folkster

Suits: Anthony Ryan’s

Music: Michelle Lally

Photographer/videographer: Bokeh Photography/ Mike Concannon Videographer

Wedding cars: Wedding Cars Galway

Cake: Cake Emporium Athenry

Earrings: Rosie & Dott

Flowers: Louise Collins, Athenry

Celebrant: Fr Larkin

Honeymoon location: New York

Shannen Van Ravestijn & Gary Stockton

recently celebrated their Wedding followed by a beautiful reception at The g Hotel, Galway.

Wedding Dress: Maggie Sottero

Hair: Donna Lydon

Make up: Ally McGinn

Flowers: Flower Haven, Oranmore

Wedding Cake: Deirdre Flannagan

Lisa & Wayne Connors

were recently married in Lough Rea Hotel and Spa where they celebrated both their Civil Ceremony and Wedding Reception.

Photographer: Joe Crean

Videographer: Mike Concannon

Florist: Florabunda, Mary Cannon Ring Bearer: ‘Missy’ the dog

ORANMORE TIDY TOWNS FASHION SHOW IN ARMORICA RESTAURANT

Guests were treated to delicious food and wine followed with the latest fashion from Ivory Lane Boutique, Sheneil Shoes and Wolf and West menswear.

Photos by Aidan Connaughton

Kate Wright, Nuala Beirne and Marian Madden

Emer Moore, Sinead Burke, Margaret McNulty and Rosanna McCamley Natasha Hughes

Sheila Considine, Mike Burke and Pauline Thornton

Audrey Craughwell, Cathy Kelly and Teresa Geraghty

Avril Kerr and Celia Marin

PIXIE HAIR STUDIO

recently celebrated the official opening of its salon on 9 Merchants Road, Galway

Mary Mylotte, Mary Gleeson, Anna Doherty

Sarah Smith, Mairead Joyce, Jo Cuddy, Marian Gleeson, Shannan Haverty and Amber Flanagan Elaine Naughton, Orla Stevens

Joy Burke, Cathal burke, Pauline Burke Shannan Haverty, Lisa Walsh, Matty Walsh

Karen Gleeson, Marian Gleeson, Christina Ferguson

GALWAY BAY MEDICAL CENTRE

The teams at Galway Bay Medical Centre and Galway Bay Physio hosted a party recently to celebrate 10 years in business on Dock Road in Galway City.

Photos by Sean Nee

Amy O’Reilly, Aoife Kiely, Sinead Murphy, Michelle Kenny, Kim Wilson, Fiona Quinn and Andy Taylor

Sinead Murphy and Ciaran Coyle

David Kelly and Emmett Hartigan

Ciaran Coyle, Simone Colohan and Emmett Hartigan

Kim Wilson, Michelle Kenny, Aoife Kiely, Ciaran Coyle, Amy O’Reilly, Sinead Murphy and Rachel Keane

Michelle Kenny, Amy O’Reilly and Fiona Quinn

Yvonne Tiernan

from The Raines

@yvonnetiernanthecouch

A perfect Galway day must include A walk in Barna woods with my family and the dogs, body treatment with Ciara Ni Dhiomsaigh at Naduir in Furbo and takeaway Gluten Free Fish and Chips for dinner from Hooked in Barna in front of the fire with a glass of Tomassi red wine.

An album I have on repeat

‘Red Hills’ by Irish Band ‘I Draw Slow.’

I’m fascinated by how other Irish bands write and perform Folk/Americana music, and I love their sound.

The best gift I ever received

My son Louis made a gift once for Mother’s day when he was little. It’s a string of wool with paper messages from him about why he loves me. It has been hanging from my bedside lamp ever since.

When I want a good laugh, I’ll call

My daughter Isobel as she’s hilarious. A natural born stand-up comedian, I wonder where she got that from…

A Book I would read again and again

“The Last Days of Joy” by my brilliant Sister-in-Law Anne Tiernan. It’s out in Ireland in March 2023, but I got to read an advanced copy. I found it hard to put down. I also re-read all of Irvin Yalom’s books.

My pet peeve has got to be

People cracking their knucklebones, passive aggressive comments and unkindness, especially to children or animals.

My go-to Galway coffee spot

Café Nero in Barna Village or Hazel Mountain Chocolate for an amazing hot chocolate.

The TV show that I always rewatch I could happily rewatch any episode of The Tommy Tiernan Show as I always notice something I missed the first time around. I love Emmerdale, The Elvis Comeback Special, In Treatment or anything about Psychotherapy.

A style staple I can’t live without Cowboy boots, boho dresses, my pieces by The Tweed Project, 70’s style Donna Ida Jumpsuits, western fringed jackets and turquoise jewellery.

My key to happiness is

The truth in a safe space, kissing, and singing with The Raines.

The greatest lesson I have learned so far is

To take a moment before responding to complicated situations and to trust what my body is telling me, mainly not to eat sugar.

A skill I would love to learn

To play more musical instruments, including the drums and to write more songs. I’d also love to be able to swim in deep water rather than roll around at the edge of the tide in my wetsuit.

My favourite fictional character

Cyrano De Bergerac played by Gerard Depardieu.

When in doubt, I turn to

It depends on the issue. More often than not, I call one of my close female friends or sisters, and I often turn to my husband. Our 10 yr old son Theo is very wise for his age, too, like a little Buddha.

My favourite podcast

It’s the “The Tommy, Hector & Laurita Podcast”. I’m a little bit biased as the Executive Producer.

Something you don’t know about me

By day I have a private practice as a Psychotherapist at Naduir in Furbo, and by night I sing in a Folk Americana band called The Raines with Ruth Dillon and Juliana Erkkonen.

In my spare time, I love to Spend time with my horse George in Ower Equestrian and go for dinner with my pals Shauna and Evelyn.

My plans for the future involve The release of The Raines debut album this Spring and our upcoming Irish Tour. I would also love to do more group therapy work at Naduir alongside my therapy work.

For Tour Dates and Tickets for The Raines go to www.theraines.ie | @the_raines_