Gower Life Winter 2017

GOWER LIFE WINTER 2017 PRICELESS

P R O U D

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S wa n s e a , M u m b l e s

T O

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B E

I N D E P E N D E N T

G o w e r ’ s P r e m i e r L i f e st y l e M a g a z i n e

The Gower Hotel

LINDA & MARK WELCOME YOU TO THE GOWER HOTEL FOOD, GIFTS, HAIR & BEAUTY, INTERIORS & MUCH MORE

Restaurant Reviews What’s On, Business, Shopping

There’s more online www.gowerlife.co.uk

Art, Music, Style Health, Homes and much more plus

CALL 029 2066 7787

VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.ALEXANDERBULLOCK.CO.UK

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FOR

120 YEARS 1897 – 2017

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SWANSEA, MUMBLES & GOWER’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

GOWER LIFE Editor Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Creative Director Mark Roberts mark@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Editorial Thomas Goodyear editorial@goodlifepublishing.co.uk Features Crispin Boden-Tebbutt crispin@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

www.gowerlife.co.uk 0845 130 6452 Passionate about West Wales We are a small independent publisher. We are not a large publishing group pretending to be home grown.

Gower Life magazine is written, designed and printed in Wales for the people of Swansea, Mumbles and Gower.

Our philosophy We are committed to quality. This quote by William Foster pretty much sums up our thinking: “Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.”

Caveat emptor Advertisers supply their own copy or artwork, and therefore Gower Life cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between advertisers and their customers. Caveat emptor - let the buyer beware.

Important you read this We have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in Gower Life or on www.gowerlife.co.uk (or our social media streams) is correct and accurate. However, we accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions and can offer no compensation should we get it wrong. Please note that the opinions, thoughts, views or ideas expressed in articles contained in Gower Life are strictly those of the authors.

Intellectual property © Copyright Gower Life 2017. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine (including adverts) may be reproduced in any shape or form (in whole or part) without the express written permission of the publishers. We take breach of copyright and theft of intellectual property extremely seriously and will sue at the drop of a croissant. You have been warned (nicely); ignorance is no excuse.

Subscriptions To guarantee your copy, please send a cheque for £40 (four issues) made payable to Gower Life. Visit www.gowerlife.co.uk for special subscriber discounts and special offers.

Missed the last issue?

We hold a small number of each issue in stock so if you do need a pristine copy, please telephone us or email jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk. Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we cannot guarantee it). Each back issue costs £10 including postage and packing.

Yes it’s free. Priceless actually!

Gower Life is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across Swansea, Mumbles, Gower peninsula and beyond, and is given away free of charge on the understanding that we are happy for it to be lent, passed on, given to friends and generally read until it falls apart. At which point, you can recycle it and we’d be delighted if you did.

WELCOME

Anyone who knows me will know that I have a passion for creativity, art, design, music, philosophy (and a great sense of humour!). They will also know that part of my passion lies in my job satisfaction and surrounding myself with good people.

I am a firm believer in quality over quantity so when, back in April, I was appointed Relationship Manager for City Life Cardiff and Vale Life (our sister publications established over ten years ago), I quickly learned that I liked the ethos behind Good Life Publishing.

I knew there and then I had joined the right company.

Living in Swansea, the natural progression was to represent and take ownership of Gower Life, people who know how good this feels, liken it to never having to work a day in your life when you find a job you don’t have to hide away from on a Monday morning!

I hope you will enjoy our winter launch issue. A lot goes on behind the scenes, which people rarely appreciate, but nothing that is produced to this standard comes easy, as many of you who are in business will understand.

Having met so many new people and new clients really gives me the sense of how hard we all strive to make it, especially during the Christmas and New year.

All I can say is that the clientele I work with make things worth getting up for; from planning advertising and media strategies,

to designing their artwork and advertorials with them - to seeing the finished article and the look on their faces when they see their company published, it is priceless, just like our publications.

I know that, for me, when I see you all reading Gower Life, it will feel like Christmas to me!

So sit back, relax and take time out to enjoy the very best of what Swansea, Mumbles and Gower have to offer.

See you in the Spring!

Lucy Gallivan Head of Gower Life lucy@goodlifepublishing.co.uk 07860 930 399

Green is good The pulp used in the production of the paper Gower Life is printed on is sourced from sustainably managed Scandinavian tree farms and utilises an elementary chlorine-free bleaching process.

We’re very sociable!

We’re on the web! www.gowerlife.co.uk Like on Facebook! www.facebook.com/GowerLife Follow on Twitter! @GowerLifemag #GowerLifemag

GOWER LIFE WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER RECENT MONTHS. OUR CONTRIBUTORS, OUR FAMILIES, OUR FRIENDS (INCLUDING ALL THE NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE) AND OUR ADVERTISERS - WITHOUT THEM GOWER LIFE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE. WE HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE’VE PRODUCED AND WE’LL TRY TO MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A STORY THAT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE, PLEASE GET IN TOUCH. FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.GOWERLIFE.CO.UK

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Helen Elliott

01239 711735

elliottarteditions@gmail.com

www.elliottart.net

Words don’t do it justice.

Langland Bay Golf Club EXCLUSIVE MULTI AWARD WINNING AFFORDABLE Langland Bay Golf Club, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4QR t: 01792 361721 e: info@langlandbaygolfclub.com www.langlandbaygolfclub.com

Stunning boutique hotel with 14 en-suite bedrooms Beautiful seasonal menu - Dog Friendly

A warm welcome guaranteed 11 CHURCH LANE

B I S H O P S TO N

SWANSEA

SA3 3JT

01792 234111 S W W W. T H E G O W E R H O T E L . C O M S

In July 2017, this exclusive luxury boutique hotel was acquired by husband and wife team Linda and Mark ClaytonEvans. The pair collectively bring years of experience in the hospitality industry to the table steering the hotel to its royal destiny.

Linda and Mark were married in 1990 and, together, they bring a strong partnership as well as individual and collective strengths to their growing business.

Clothing supplied by Formal Hire

BRINGING GLAMOUR TO GOWER Linda and Mark who own Marlin Hospitality, with their joint business, leadership and hospitality skills, are ensuring that The Gower Hotel is a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

Linda has worked for fortune 500 companies and in the hospitality business for years which makes her the ideal person to head up front of house and oversee the management of the Hotel. Mark also brings years of hospitality experience with him and works as the food developer, closely with their Executive Chef to ensure the best produce is selected and high standards maintained in the hotel’s menu selection.

The boutique hotel boasts 14 gorgeous, bespoke rooms which are all en-suite.

Each luxury designed room encapsulates the hotel’s ethos of making each and every guest feel like royalty. Three of the rooms are luxury signature rooms which are ideal for that special occasion such as an anniversary, birthday or even a honeymoon. One of the rooms features a cast iron rolled top bath in the middle of the room, perfect for newlyweds.

The hotel is ideally placed in the Gower Peninsula with the infamous Three Cliffs and beautiful surrounding coastline and woodlands on its doorstep. The hotel is a dog friendly establishment and has rooms available specifically for you and your pet.

Monroe’s Restaurant and Bar, situated within the hotel is open to all and captures the hedonistic characteristics of Marilyn Monroe; the inspiration behind the décor, where you can step back in time and immerse yourself into the glamorous world of 1950’s Hollywood.

Food is a major attraction of the hotel, with people coming from near and far to sample the delights of the professional kitchen brigade who can often be seen picking the fresh herbs from the garden to use in many of their mouth-watering dishes.

Overseeing the hotel, is the General Manager of Marlin Hospitality, Chantelle Monaghan, who hails from South Africa, with true warmth and charm, as well as being well versed in the travel industry with over sixteen years’ experience, as well as having worked with Linda for 9

several years in Africa, all guests will be in the best and most capable hands.

So, if you’re looking for a glamorous, boutique styled hotel in the heart of the Gower Peninsula for a romantic weekend getaway, business stop over, private celebration or event, then the dedicated and professional team will ensure that everything runs like clockwork and will be an occasion that will be memorable.

If you haven’t yet booked your Christmas and New Year parties, then the Gower Hotel would love to welcome you and would encourage you to visit their website for more details on what’s on offer over the festive period.

The Gower Hotel 11 Church Lane Bishopston Swansea SA3 3JT 01792 234111 www.thegowerhotel.com info@thegowerhotel.com Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter

For our golden Gower Girl Lucy Gallivan, publishing Gower Life is a dream come true. Born and bred in Swansea, Lucy is very proud to call this beautiful part of Wales her home and spends much of her leisure and family time around Swansea, Mumbles and Gower.

OUR GOWER GIRL Tell us a bit about yourself?

I am part of the team here at Good Life Publishing, fondly referred to by my co-workers as Lucy Cannon! We have a great team who are always on hand to have a laugh and bounce off each other for ideas.

I head up Gower Life, Premier Social, and Gower Life Photo Corner. I think of myself as a driven and ambitious woman, I thrive on a challenge and love to laugh but, more importantly, I am creative in everything I produce.

I live in Swansea with my three children Ryan, Cameron and Holly who are all characters (wonder where they got that from?). I hope by being brought up by a woman with a strong work ethic, they will be inspired to have a career doing what they love and make their own footsteps down their chosen path.

What has your path to now been like?

My path has been very tempestuous.

Success isn’t a straight line that takes you to the top immediately. It involves evaluating what is important, who is important, who matters and who never did (you all know who you are). I started my journey in life never wanting to follow the crowd. I always refer to myself as a free spirit who always takes a challenge over the easy option.

I started my path at sixteen years old when I decided not to go to college or university. Instead, I went straight to work in the financial industry for twelve years as a senior mortgage advisor. I gained qualifications along the way then I had my children. I fell into multimedia around four years ago, which suited everything that I was good at. I haven’t looked back since.

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What is the most important thing in your life?

It goes without saying that the little people I created, my “Trio”, are the most important things in my life; I want them to be happy, have drive, fire, and gusto in their hearts and souls. Aside from my family, the most important thing is a good work/life balance. I can say I have reached the top of the mountain with this. I have great employers who support and encourage a happy work/ life balance which enables me to be the best mum and employee. I truly believe when you find a job you love, it fits around your life and allows you to be creative you’ll have the winning combination of six lucky numbers.

“ I started my journey in life never wanting to follow the crowd.”

Tell us the most interesting thing about you?

I am a character that is for sure - you won’t forget me! I have a lot of passion and humour, I am absolutely, without a doubt, a creative and savvy individual. I have a lot of personal traits people can relate to - always makes for a fascinating cup of coffee! If your life experience is more unique than mine, then we need a coffee!

What are your plans for the next year?

My plans are to grow and develop Gower Life into something so unique and elite that it then allows me to move onto our potential Mediterranean publication in Javea, a real dream of mine! To have a job you love and do it in the sun and have the cultural experience that it brings, mark my words I will be there!

What inspires and motivates you?

My inspiration comes from my simple values “Live, Laugh and Love”, I like to set goals and achieve them. I love hearing about peoples’ stories and their personal journeys and I feel I have a lot of life experiences which then enables me to connect and empathise with so many people on so many levels. I like to think my motivation comes from seeing happiness passed on to others. I love how I can achieve things for my clients that no-one else can. I believe in listening, understanding, digesting and then creating. From a conversation I can create a vision for a client and that’s what drives me to do my job each day.

What do you love the most about Gower?

After a poignant time in my life, I sought solace in abstract art; a part of that art was seascapes, landscapes, and photography.

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I would very often take time out for reflection just listening to the crashing waves and the beautiful things that Gower has to offer. I would sit and paint canvasses from all around the Gower.

People would walk by and stop to talk to me and find out what I was doing, and I know I am not alone in this. Aside from its unrivalled beauty, this area has so many down-to-earth people who strive to make a living, just like I do. If you can work, play, live, laugh and love in the Gower, well I think then you can say you’ve made it!

Lucy Gallivan Head of Gower Life lucy@goodlifepublishing.co.uk 07860 930 399 Clothes by Colours of Cowbridge, quote “Lucy” to receive 10% off

Just a short drive from Swansea, the Gower Peninsula is more than just a pretty face. It was designated as the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty back in 1956 and, we’re glad to say, it hasn’t changed much since!

INTRODUCING GOWER THE UK’S FIRST AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY

Visit the Gower Peninsula for a rich and varied environment which is breath-taking! From wild moors and limestone cliffs to golden, sandy beaches. Gower is a geological goldmine with inspiring landscapes – just look at Dylan Thomas’ work.

And the Beach Goes On Stay on dry land, and you will be missing out! It gets some of the most awesome waves in Britain, and sandy Llangennith has been popular amongst surfers for decades. Rhossili Bay has also been enjoying some limelight on the world stage too. It has been voted Wales’ Best Beach 2017 and one of the UK’s Top 10 Beaches for five years running in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards AND was the first beach to be awarded Britain’s Best Beach for two years in succession!

True adrenaline junkies can try a spot of coasteering - climb the cliffs and leap into the waves below, not for the faint hearted! Make sure you’re always accompanied by a professional though.

Coast & Countryside The 19 mile-long Peninsula starts at Mumbles and extends westwards. It’s famous for its beautiful coastline and beaches (from vast Rhossili Bay to tiny, secluded Pwll Du), and is a favourite destination for walkers and surfers.

Inland you’ll find sheltered woodland and rolling grasslands; country pubs and fine food.

It’s no surprise that walking in Gower is so popular, its home to some of the most beautiful sections of the Wales Coast Path. Grab your boots and be prepared for a spectacular waterfront walk.

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It’s not all about sea and sand either you’ll encounter lush woodlands and stunning countryside views along the way.

Sample some of the local delicacies, such as Penclawdd Cockles from the Loughor estuary, succulent Salt Marsh Lamb and the famous Laverbread (its seaweed!).

Outstanding Natural Beauty Gower was awarded its AONB status for its classic coastline (much of it is Heritage Coast) and its outstanding natural environment (33% is National Nature Reserve or a Site of Special Scientific Interest).

The Peninsula’s richly varied natural environment is renowned for its heathland, limestone grassland, freshand salt-water marshes, dunes and oak woodlands.

Its mixed geology has given rise to a wide variety of scenery in a relatively small landscape area. Dramatic limestone cliffs, interspersed with sandy beaches and rocky shores, dominate its southern coast. In the north, the coast is low-lying with extensive salt marshes and dune systems.

Travel Back in Time There are at least 1200 archaeological sites in the AONB of different periods and types. These include caves, Iron Age forts, medieval castles, churches, a lighthouse and 19th Century parks.

73 of these are of national importance, with 124 listed buildings. Gower is a true place of legends – don’t miss Arthur’s Stone, a neolithic burial chamber located at the top of Cefn Bryn.

The western part of the AONB is included in the Register of Landscapes of Outstanding Historic Interest in Wales, for the rich evidence of a long sequence of land use and occupation from the prehistoric to industrial periods. This includes Iron Age forts and a surviving medieval open field system (known as the Vile, near Rhossili).

Rest Up & Recharge If this article has whet your appetite, there is a wide range of accommodation in Gower; hotels, guest-houses, self-catering apartments, caravans and campsites. From the sumptuous to the simplistic, there is something to suit all tastes and budgets. To check out where to stay and what to see and do on Gower go to www.visitswanseabay.com 13

www.visitswanseabay.com Images courtesy of City and County of Swansea

The Gower and Swansea has so many great little gems and we’ve tried to share as many as we can with you in this issue. We only like to feature businesses, places, activities or events that we’ve either experienced ourselves or have been recommended to us. We’d love to hear from you too. Where do you shop? Where do you eat? What do you love about our gorgeous county? Please send your positive comments to lucy@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

AROUND THE GOWER

Sunset over Oxwich Bay

CONTEMPORARY ARTIST

Rebecca Jory Art Growing up in Mumbles, Rebecca draws inspiration from the beautiful scenic coastlines that has surrounded her throughout her life.

Rebecca creates stunning artistic pieces that aim to evoke the raw, natural feeling of her subjects. Her contemporary style has flashes of traditional elements that help create aesthetically pleasing images perfect for any home. With her work available as framed pictures, canvases, and as cushions, you can now fill your home with her wonderful imagery. www.rebeccajoryart.com 07751 548147 Buy at etsy.com - Rebecca Jory Art beckyjory@me.com Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter CERAMIC JEWELLERY

Ruby Anne Jewellery From her garden studio in Gowerton Ruby makes original and unique porcelain jewellery.

With a BA hons degree in Visual Art that led to teaching Art and Design, Ruby soon began to sell her work after being encouraged by friends and family. Each piece is created using locally sourced, high quality materials that are then formed by hand, glazed and fired using a variety of techniques in order to create detailed, one of a kind pieces. Why not see for yourself by visiting Ruby’s Christmas chalet in Swansea from 8 - 21 December.

07888 839982 www.rubyanne.co.uk Find on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram UNIQUE FASHION

Seascape Curiosities Created in 2014 by Sara after she completed her degree in Textile design, Seascape Curiosities aims to produce a unique range of illustrative fashion accessories and gorgeous homewares designed, printed and produced here on the Gower coast.

The collection includes hand printed leather and cork clutch bags, illustrated silk scarves and a range of eye catching lampshades to complement all settings by customising size and colourway to suit your interiors.

Seascape Curiosities has also had international success designing dinner ware, soft furnishings and home accessories for American retail brands.

Take a look online for this seasons fashion accessories, home interiors and gifts.

07702 169910 www.seascapecuriosities.co.uk Find on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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10% DISCOUNT WILL BE GIVEN ON PRODUCTION OF THIS ADVERT Exciting new addition to our collection for Autumn/Winter 2017 “Dress Code” excellent for mother of the bride and groom as well as occasion wear. This slots perfectly into our ranges alongside Zeila, Cabotine, Renata, Isobel Campos Gina Bacconi, Michaela Louisa and Frank Lyman design.

We also carry an extensive range of matching shoes, bags, hats, hatinators and fascinators.

You will also find that we have established brands in our casual wear section.

66 EASTGATE | COWBRIDGE | CF71 7AB

01446 774620 New website coming soon www.coloursofcowbridge.co.uk

Ladies have you looked in the mirror... can you see yourself in this?

7-9 SHOPPERS WALK ARCADE, OXFORD STREET, SWANSEA , SA1 3AY

01792 653868 www.madamefoner.co.uk Madame foner swansea

madame_foner_est_1901

@MadameFoner

The Bridal Boutique have been preparing brides for their big day for over ten years, we call in to find out more...

THE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

Your wedding gown might be the most important garment you may ever don, take some of the pressure away from planning your big day by choosing a gown with The Bridal Boutique, Tonyrefail.

The family run business has been dressing brides for they’re big day for over thirteen years, so you can trust their experienced consultants to make sure hearts drop as you walk down the aisle. Their hard work has been recognised as they have been nominated for an award by the 2017 Best of Welsh Weddings.

There’s plenty of styles to choose from with names like Mori Lee, Venus Bridal, House of Nicholas and Elite Bridal offering beautiful gowns that will make any bride blush. Whatever accessories you need to complete your outfit are within your fingertips as they stock a range of veils, headpieces, shoes and jewellery to compliment you. You can even put your feet up as your bridesmaids take to the catwalk to find the dress that suits them all - that’s one more thing you can tick off your evergrowing list.

It’s not just blushing brides that can find the dress from them as they have a variety of luxury prom and evening dresses. Whatever the occasion they can give you the guidance and advice so you can step out with confidence and in style.

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The Bridal Boutique 30 Mill Street, Tonyrefail CF39 8AA 01443 673655 thebridalboutiquewales@gmail.com www.equisitebridalgowns.co.uk Like on Facebook @ TheBridalBoutiqueTonyrefail

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Not that we are biased (we are!), but Justin’s work as the official Gower Life photographer is crème de la crème!

JUSTIN HARRIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Justin Harris celebrates ten years of showcasing his photographic expertise. From fashion shoots to high-end weddings whatever the occasion Justin has the creativity to make the images beyond ordinary and gives you the luxury of immersing yourself forever in that moment.

Moving into the new studio above Formal Hire he offers headshots, prom

shoots, commercial photography and also provides training for all of the above.

Justin and his team are dedicated to delivering the highest standard possible; images that will bring a smile to your face each and every time you set eyes on them. Whatever you would like to book, get in contact to hear what the experts have to say!

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“ Dedicated to delivering the highest standard” Justin Harris Photography 07971 487799 01792 898544 www.justinharrisphotography.co.uk

Fashionably different

01792 898544 or 07971 487799 www.JustinHarrisPhotography.co.uk

@justinpixdotcom

justinharrisphotographyuk

@justinharrisphotography

Cuban Tobacco & Oak 300ml black glass tumblers £15.00 www.thornbushhill.com

Gauci Reed Diffusers 100ml £35 www.gaucicandles.co.uk

Foxy Fox Barrel Bag £60 www.zatchels.com

Favourite T HINGS...

MY

Minijammies by Cyberjammies - Matilda Woven Long Sleeve Pink Toadstool Print Girls Pyjamas £22.50 www.cyberjammies.co.uk

Here’s a roundup of some of the lovely things that have caught Lucy’s eye this winter...

Marsala Red Micro Satchel £60 www.zatchels.com

DuoBoots Orpheus in Tan Leather or Black Leather £150.00 www.duoboots.com

Meadow Grass - Appletree - A British brand with heritage - www.appletreeliving.co.uk from £90

Simply Awesome Beard Balm £4.50-£8.00 www.gaucicandles.co.uk

Radford Cheese Knife Set – 5 piece RRP: £85 www.robertwelch.com

Chloe Crop Top £34 Issy Leggings £65 www.cheriebumble.com

Functional Form knife block RRP: £70.00 www.fiskars.co.uk

Rougette Erica set, briefs: £10.00 bra £20.00 available to buy at www.tuttirouge.com

Jo Malone London Red Roses Cologne £20 donated from every £88 sale of the 100ml Cologne in October 2017 www.jomalone.co.uk

Women’s Original Refined Trench coat- £345- Available at www.hunterboots.com

Simone Perele from Paris Bra £85 Knickers £45 www.madamefoner.co.uk

Scribe Gift Set – 4 piece RRP: £70 www.robertwelch.com

The White Company Sandalwood diffuser £27 www.thewhitecompany.com

BOOK NOW

01792 883318

BOOK NOW 01792 883318

Christmas Time is near The Tafarn-y-Deri is full of Cheer

Book your Christmas Parties Events here!

Come and spend your&office party here!

AVAILABLE FROM 1ST NOVEMBER, BOTH LUNCH & DINNER UNTIL 24TH DECEMBER

Our Menu

TWO COURSES £16.95 / THREE COURSES £19.95

Starters

Chr The Tafar Mains

Available from 1st November, both Lunch and Dinner until 24th December Wild woodland mushrooms in Slow roast beef a cream & garlic sauce

With Nan’s Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables & gravy

Served on toasted ciabatta bread

Pan searned Salmon

TYD Wild game terrine on a crisp leaves

With Swansea Smoked Salmon and Penclawdd cockles in a veloute

With blackberry compote

Roast Turkey

Swansea smoked Salmon on a bed of pickled vegetable ribbons

With pigs in blankets, cranberry and sausage stuffing and honey roast parsnips, seasonal vegetables & gravy

With a lemon and dill dressing

Roast butternut and Tarragon soup

Spinach & Ricotta Tortellini

With warm olive bread

With Marinara sauce

Desserts

Sherry Trifle / Christmas Pudding Chocolate Fudge Cake / Lemon & raspberry Posset

www.tafarnyderi.com Tafarn-Y-Deri, Ebenezer Rd, Llanedi, Swansea, SA4 0YT

Call: 01792 883318

Com

Competition!

£100 OF GIFT VOUCHERS TO BE WON! Fancy being in with a chance of winning £100 gift vouchers from Madame Foner? Simply enter via emailing shapelylady@foners.co.uk and quote MFGL, winner will be picked at random.

CLOSING DATE: 23.12.17 7-9 SHOPPERS WALK ARCADE, OXFORD STREET, SWANSEA , SA1 3AY

01792 653868 www.madamefoner.co.uk

Madame foner swansea

madame_foner_est_1901

@MadameFoner

Mouth-watering meals that you won’t need to cast your net far and wide to find…

QUAY THREE

Preparation is everything in the restaurant business, if something is prepared well, you can guarantee the diners will be happy with every mouthful. This is something Quay Three have perfected since their opening in 2014.

They are situated in the untapped SA1 Marina; the stylish décor sets the tone for an experience that will bring you back again and again as many of their customers have told us! The most important part of preparation is the freshness and quality of the produce; this is something they have worked tirelessly to ensure your meal immerses you in taste.

“Efficient and quality service.”

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The fish travels only yards as it is sourced by Swansea fishermen, netted in Swansea waters. Their fish counter has proved very popular with guests who are blown away by the incredible quality. Seafood has been extremely popular in 2017 and Quay Three’s fresh seafood platter has wetted people’s appetites. From Sea bass to Scallops there is plenty of variety so you don’t need to cast your net afar.

There’s plenty of accolades to Quay Three with expertly crafted cocktails, creative afternoon teas, fine wines and meals to suite any appetite. But you cannot forget its location harboured in the Tawe’s mouth, Swansea’s marina is an area growing increasingly popular.

The most popular destination in the marina is Quay Three and their sister restaurant That Place, which is undergoing a transformation to become Quay Three’s cooler, older brother.

It will become Mustard and Rye, where the focus is on sharing, with an extensive tapas and drinks menu set to go down a storm.

From ocean and farm to fork, Head Chef Matt Leung is dedicated to making sure every dish leaves every guest beaming. You can expect efficient and quality service whilst dining at Quay Three as each member of staff is passionate about the overall experience. Don’t forget to book to guarantee your place at the table due to extreme popularity they can fill up within minutes!

Quay Three Trawler Road, Maritime Quarter Swansea SA1 1LB 01792 462251 www.quaythree.co.uk Like and Follow on Instagram, Facebook & Twitter @QuayThree 27

PREMIERCLUB

COME AND JOIN US AT PREMIER SOCIAL THURSDAY 23RD NOVEMBER 12-2PM Welcome to Premier Club, a unique social, business and dining experience at some of the finest venues in Wales.

Premier Club creates the perfect environment in which to socialise and meet like-minded people.

PREMIERCLUB SOCIAL

l

BUSINESS

l

DINING

For membership opportunities please contact Lucy Gallivan CALL 07860 930399

EMAIL lucy@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

www.premierclub.biz

CAI WILLIAMS Cai Williams is flying high with a successful career that has lifted him off the ground. We caught up with him on the set of his new TV show.

From Welsh mining town Blaenavon to the bright lights of stardom, Cai Williams has piloted his career to new heights.

He has over twenty years in the industry travelling all over the world performing for many a notable name such as Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, and creating three studio albums along the way.

Cai progressed through the BBC’s, The Voice under the guidance of Welsh legend Sir Tom Jones. But Cai isn’t short of accolades in his career, he is a model, he trained to be a dentist, as well as performing in high-end theatre productions. He recently replaced Myleene Klass on a wellestablished cruise ship performing for the masses.

He has been asked to appear on many established shows like Britain’s Got Talent, Big Brother and X-Factor but turned them down as the shows are not as credible in the way that he believes The Voice is. Now settled in his most favourite place in the world, the Gower peninsula, Cai has his own successful solo vocal show, The ‘Power Within’, as well as ‘An Evening With Cai Williams’ where you can get all the low down on his celeb encounters and his general life.

He is also currently presenting all the celeb and showbiz news live for Channel 8’s Swansea Bay TV which he has been doing for almost two years. He has an upcoming show which has got many of us excited titled ‘Style Matters’.

Cai will be delving the depths of fashion, beauty, hair and all things aesthetic. The niche of the show which is the first of its kind will look at this category for not just women but men also in the same show.

There will be plenty of designer outfits and styling so it will certainly be worth a watch for some inspiration! His ethos to life rings the bells of everything the show has to offer; “fashion passes but style must always remain”.

Named after a Welsh Prince, he has proved himself to be entertainment royalty. Standing out in a crowd is something he is certainly passionate about as he sets trends and never follows them - creating a striking image of himself is very important as this is the first component to a performance.

If you are looking to book Cai, you can find all his contact details below.

Cai Williams International Singer, Model and TV Presenter 07443 632537 caiwilliamsbooking@gmail.com www.caiwilliams.com Follow on social media Instagram @Cai2Die4 Twitter @Cai_thepower

If you are looking for a little sunshine in Swansea but it’s the usual wind and drizzle forecast, well at least you can taste something that reflects the sunshine atmosphere of Jamaica.

JAMAICAN JILLS Jamaican Jill’s is one of the most colorful and electrifying experiences in Swansea at the moment, and that’s just the décor.

The food is also the most authentic Jamaican cuisine this side of the Atlantic. Whatever occasion, there is something to suit all from family meals (they even have board games to keep the kids occupied) to cocktails and steel drums to dance to every weekend!

The soul behind the restaurant is Bernie Davies, born and raised in Jamaica who moved to Wales from Bradford in 2006 after falling in love with its beauty on a car journey through its lush countryside a year before. She met her Welsh husband Mark in 2011 and settled in Wales.

Bernie has brought a part of her homeland with her in the restaurant as she continues to be an ambassador for Jamaican Culture in South Wales. The journey began in Neath as Jamaican Jill’s was born and has grown on a much larger scale. The new Swansea venue was launched to meet the demands of hungry guests!

We spoke to Bernie herself to find out a little more! What has the journey to opening the restaurant been like for you?

It’s been an amazing journey... a rollercoaster if I’m honest, but the restaurant is thriving and it’s fantastic seeing so many happy guests enjoying themselves. It makes all the hard work worth it! We have come a long way since we first opened in Neath, we 30

have learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t but we’ve tried to keep everything genuine and authentic Jamaican as I know and love it!

What Jamaican dish should everyone try?

That’s a tough one we have such a great menu that it’s difficult to pick which one! All of the dishes; jerk chicken, ackee, and saltfish, oxtail to name a few are Bernie Tested as I like to call it.

I quality check and tweak little bits here and there so they are spot on. I’d have to say my goat curry is probably the most popular, we get a lot of people coming back for it, they can’t get enough!

What inspires you to bring Jamaica to South Wales?

Jamaica is bursting with such amazing vibrant culture that I really want to share with everyone. I love the culture in Wales, I have lived here so many years and have grown to love its quirks which are not too dissimilar to Jamaica.

For example, both cultures are very friendly and also very frank! Having grown up in Jamaica it’s a privilege to be able to celebrate and treat our customers to the Caribbean culture that I love!

Jamaican Jills The City Gates, Little Wind Street SA1 1EE

If we’ve got your attention and your feeling the vibes then check out

01792 476222 www.jamaicanjills.com

“There is something to suit all.”

Check them out on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @jamaicanjillsswansea 31

A few of the manufacturing processes at the Valley Mill factory

Valley Mill have been manufacturing and supplying 100% Welsh made products for a decade now and it doesn’t look like they are going to be slowing down anytime soon.

VALLEY

Valley Mill have been manufacturing and supplying 100% Welsh made products for a decade now and it doesn’t look like they are going to be slowing down anytime soon.

Their journey began with director and creator Kevin Thomas in 2007, after purchasing a laser engraving machine and utilising two bedrooms at home as a workshop. The one-man band started attending markets and shows on the weekend; selling handmade laser engraved Welsh slate products, whilst still working as a full time manufacturing engineer. After committing to the business full time in 2009 the next step was to build two sheds in his garden to house the business.

Swansea Store 39 Union Street Swansea SA1 3DZ 01792 448041 Crynant Workshop Units 20-21 Crynant Business Park Crynant SA10 8PX 01639 750748 www.valleymill.co.uk sales@valleymill.co.uk Facebook @ValleyMillhomeware

In 2012, due to a surge in business brought on by supplying retail stores throughout the UK, Valley Mill moved into a commercial property in Crynant. This gave them the room and opportunity to expand their manufacturing processes, resulting in the creation of their range of Soy wax candles & handmade natural soaps.

Due to the success of supplying other stores, the natural progression was for them to open their own high street store in Neath.

Two years later the momentum continued, and with the help of local investment funding, were able to purchase better machinery and take over the unit next door in Crynant. This has expanded their workshop to an impressive 300 square metres in total, which houses 3 high powered laser engraving machines, a 7Kw sandblast engraver and a 2 meter bridge cutter.

In 2016 they made the brave decision to move their high street store from Neath, to a much larger store in the heart of Swansea. Valley Mill now hand make a wide range of Welsh slate products; from coasters and placemats, to clocks and memo boards - all of which can be personalised in-store whilst you wait.

With the help of one of their friendly sales assistants, you can also design your own house signs, memorials, trophies and awards; all of which are handcrafted to order in the Crynant workshop.

A selection of Valley Mill products made in their Crynant workshop

Wooden Wick, Soy Wax Candle with Welsh slate lid

100% Natural Hand Made Soap

MILL

As well as their Swansea store and online, you can find Valley Mill’s products in over 140 stores throughout the UK.

Alongside their large range of Welsh slate home and giftware, you can find a variety of products from other likeminded Welsh companies; such as Melin Tregwynt, Tweedmill, Welsh Lavender and many more. All of these products, which are also handmade in Wales, include Welsh woollen blankets, scarves & cushions, handmade ceramics, natural beauty products, jewellery and much more. All products are hand picked to compliment Valley Mill’s own ranges.

Valley Mill is proud to support other independent Welsh businesses, and stock some of the best products that Wales has to offer.

Having supplied products to some of the most demanding and influential people in the world, such as Barack Obama, David Cameron and even the Queen, Valley Mill has the confidence and drive to keep putting Wales on the map.

“I believe in these uncertain times it is important to support Welsh companies, which is why the whole ethos of Valley Mill is to only sell products that are actually made in Wales.”

Check out everything Valley Mill have to offer by visiting the website or for a more immersive experience pop to the store…

Hand Made Welsh Slate Homeware

Welsh Slate Trophies & Awards

39 Union Street Swansea SA1 3DZ 01792 448041 www.valleymill.co.uk Welsh Slate House Signs & Plaques

Get 5% off all products in store or online with voucher code ‘GOWDEC17’ Valid until 31st Dec 2017.

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Gripoly Mills Retail Park, Sloper Road, Cardiff. CF11 8AA

North Road, Bridgend Industrial Estate, Bridgend. CF31 3TP

Telephone: 01792 359622

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Who doesn’t love a scented candle? But did you know that many candles contain nasties and, when burnt, can cause toxic fumes, which can lead to illness? Gauci Organic Candles are made from good, old-fashioned, earth grown soybeans and contain no nasties. Let candle maker extraordinaire, Spiro Gauci tell you more about candles and what got him interested in the candle making business.

GAUCI ORGANIC CANDLES What is so special about your candles then Spiro?

The wax we use is made from soybeans.

It is further enhanced with the finest carefully selected botanical oils, adding to its performance characteristics. All our candles use soy waxes and are guaranteed to contain no petroleum, paraffin or beeswax products and all the soy waxes we use in our candle making are 100% vegetable.

Where did your passion for candle making come from?

I have always had a passion for fire, flames, candles and scents. I don’t know why, but when I was little I used to visit my nan and gramps (that’s Welsh for grandmother and grandfather by the way) at their bungalow in Newport.

As they were quite elderly, they would always complain it was cold so they always had a coal fire burning. I used to sit staring into the flames for what seemed like hours just day-dreaming.

Looking back, that’s probably where my fascination came from so, as soon as I was old enough, I left home and got my own place. The first thing I bought for my flat was some scented candles from The Pier in Cardiff and my new flat smelled wonderful.

Pretty soon I was experimenting with candle-making. Things were a little tight financially when I first started. I used to recycle the scented paraffin candle wax and pour into Pringle crisp containers with string hanging from the kitchen unit. I’m sure it was partly to save money but also an excuse to buy more Pringles!

At this point, I didn’t know anything about the chemical make-up of wax – my eco-friendly thinking was to come later as I looked into it in more detail.

I was also inspired after a road trip across America. In San Francisco I discovered a candle shop that blew me away! It was full of candles and smelled fantastic – so many different colours and the scent was overwhelming. I couldn’t stop thinking about it and I’ve dreamed of having my own candle making company ever since.

Where did the essential oils addition come from?

My experience in America opened my mind to the possibilities of using scents and essential oils in my candles. I’d always been interested in meditation (and Karate – it’s a spiritual thing I suppose) and so this seemed a logical step. I tried meditation myself with different scents and soon got a feel for what worked well. And so began my candle-lit journey.

Why is organic so important to you?

I wanted to share my passion for candles but, as I had become more environmentally aware, I also wanted to make sure that what I was creating wasn’t harming the planet. So, I researched organic soy wax and essential oils to ensure they were friendly before I went any further.

Now I have a small workshop where we make our candles and I couldn’t be happier. My vision is turning into a reality and, although we’re only a small business, we’re growing every day as new customers find us and tell their friends.

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At Gauci, we really don’t want to be the biggest candle business in the world, just the best. And, if we spread a little love and light along the way, that would be nice too.

Who buys your candles?

I have a small but growing list of private customers. I also stock my candles in a number of independent gift shops and salons. I’ve recently been in meetings with a couple of garden centres as well and I’m hoping so see my displays there soon. My little empire is growing!

Gauci grooming products coming soon, beard oils, beard balms and the new website www.gauciorganics.co.uk

If you would like Gauci Organic Candles in your business, then please get in touch by emailing jen@gaucicandles.co.uk

Picture courtesy of: Colefax & Fowler - Curtains CASSIUS / Chair MALONE CHECK

CELEBRATING 34 YEARS ON THE KINGSWAY

Discover this seasons fabric, wallpaper and furniture trends in our Swansea showroom Curtains blinds and all soft furnishings made to measure or purchase fabric only FREE measuring and advice on schemes Complete fitting service specialising in electric remote controlled systems and bay windows Specialist wall coverings and paints

397 THE KINGSWAY CIT Y CENTRE SWANSEA SA1 5LQ

01792 456 800

INFO@VOGUEINTERIORS.CO.UK WWW.VOGUEINTERIORS.CO.UK 37

It’s often said that as summer comes to an end, Gower gets quiet. For local business owners though, the work doesn’t stop.

LLANRHIDIAN HOLIDAY PARK

This is certainly the case for Andrew and Gaynor Richards - owners of Llanrhidian Holiday Park for 25 years. Initial work is in process to introduce a dog grooming parlour, a larger hair, nails and beauty salon and a small gym. Plus, an imminent delivery of an array of brand new, luxury caravans...

Andrew Richards - still feels the excitement every year when the new caravan models arrive: “There’s a real buzz about the place when the first couple of caravans get to Llanrhidian.

After all these years I still can’t wait for them to get here, and all the staff are the same! We take real pride in the quality of the vans and genuinely love showing them off to prospective new holiday home owners.”

By the looks of things, staff at Llanrhidian Holiday Park have good reason to show off their 2018 fleet.

Gone are the days when a caravan holiday meant cramming into a singular space resulting in a lack of privacy and a cramped, less-than-relaxing environment.

Instead, 21st century holiday homes are a thing of beauty, with many affording all the luxuries of a flat or apartment.

“My favourite is the ABI Beaumont,” says Mitzi Richards, daughter of Andrew and Gaynor. “I love the colour scheme.

It’s also big and spacey, it feels like a proper home. I would have no problems having my German shepherd in there you couldn’t do that in the old-school vans!”

Speaking of homliness - all the latest models are fitted with double-glazing and come with central heating as standard, meaning that you can cocoon yourself in the cosiness of your caravan when the weather is less than desirable outside: perfect for all-year-round escapes to Llanrhidian.

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“We only close the site for three weeks in January, meaning that you’re able to get value for money and a holiday whenever you want. Holiday home owners seem to be spending more time than ever before at the park in autumn and winter including Christmas and New Year, so we’ve adapted our approach and the services we offer accordingly.”

One such service is The Purple Badger - a quirky bar and restaurant set on Llanrhidian Holiday Park itself.

The Purple Badger is open throughout the season offering not only outstanding food and drink, but also a whole host of events: Christmas tribute nights every weekend in December (including a cracking Neil Diamond!)

“21st century holiday homes are a thing of beauty.”

You can find out more about Llanrhidian Holiday Park on the website, or by visiting the site office, open daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm 01792 391 083 holiday.parks@btconnect.com www.llanrhidianholidaypark.co.uk For more information on the latest events or menu at The Purple Badger take a look at the website www.purplebadgerrestaurant.co.uk 39

JACK & ROSE

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BESPOKE SOFAS & CHAIRS We offer bespoke sofas and chairs in any size and design with fabrics to suit you and your lifestyle.

RE-UPHOLSTERY SPECIALISTS Breathe life back into a treasured piece of furniture so that you can love it all over again.

Banthorpe House, Crosby Yard, Bridgend CF31 1JZ Open Monday to Saturday 9am – 5pm

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MADE-TO-MEASURE CURTAINS & PELMETS Whether it’s elegant, dramatic or fun, we have hundreds of quality curtain and upholstery fabrics.

BEAUTIFUL HAND-MADE BEDS Let Jack & Rose design and create the stunning bespoke bed of your dreams.

01656 768844 info@jackandrose.co.uk www.jackandrose.co.uk

Alex Richards and Andrew Farmer

AAI (Architectural Aluminium Installations) of Swansea were delighted to join forces with Morganstone on a large care home in Beddau which was officially opened in September this year. We caught up with Ralph Hughes, Operations Manager of Morganstone, to find out why he chose to work with AAI.

AAI - H ANDLED WITH CARE

What does Morganstone offer its clients?

We offer a full construction service from land purchase through to completion of the build, and aftercare.

How did you hear about AAI? They are known to us through personally knowing each other from previous companies.

What work did they carry out for you?

The carried out the manufacture and installation of the curtain walling, entrance doors and AOV installation.

Who did you liaise with?

I liaised with the owner of the business, Mr Alex Richards and the Managing Director, Mr Andrew Farmer.

How did you find him to work with?

I found them both very knowledgeable and proactive.

Did they give you ideas or did you give him a clear brief?

Yes, they discussed issued that they had resolved on similar projects and incorporated this into the element of works.

What difference has the work done made to the way in which the building now appears or functions?

It gives a large amount of natural light to the internal corridors and also security to the entrance doors.

Would you recommend AAI? I would be delighted to work with AAI again and to recommend them to others. They are on our approved list of sub-contractors who have all had to attain certain standards and criteria for safety, quality and financial status etc.

“It’s always a pleasure to build good relationships with other contractors and Morganstone are no exception. A great company and between us we believe we managed to create an impressive building to the area.” said Alex Richards, AAI.

“ I found them both very knowledgeable and proactive.”

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AAI Unit 3A Ashmount Business Park Upper Forest Way Swansea, SA6 8QR 01792 794549 sales@alexanderjamesbifold.co.uk www.aai.wales 43

When has it ever paid to drag your heels? Making Tax Digital (MTD) has been pushed back to 2020. Great news? Don’t have to make the changes?

Sadly that’s wrong. When MTD eventually starts, the digital heel draggers, will find their tech savvy competitors sailing to success, with the last boat long gone. Waiting for MTD before adopting cloud technology is crazy.

Digitalisation is increasing the speed and ease of doing business right now.

LEWIS BALLARD We’re keeping ahead of the tide so we’re not only ready to deal with the inevitable hiccups of MTD, we’re also ensuring our clients stay ahead of competitors today.

‘An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.’

We’ve made that investment with Xero Cloud Accounting. As avid Xero pioneers, we’re actively working with them to improve the resource, whilst also championing the voices of our clients when it comes to feedback and progress. Xero is continually adding new and more streamlined features and aim to make using their software so simple that it would be reckless not to.

“ Accounting’s cutting edge.”

Where is the silver lining?

Cloud accounting is up to date information on a constantly updating platform. It keeps you in touch with the figures of your business as they change. Taxation experts suggest that there’ll be an organic move to cloud accounting.

We’re doing it now. Everyone will have to do it eventually. This is accounting’s cutting edge. And it’s right where future businesses success stories will be.

Genghis Khan’s empire grew on his willingness to embrace new technology; the bow and arrow.

No-one is suggesting that you start conquering your business competitors with primitive weapons, but why use outdated systems?

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Proactive change helped Genghis create a vast empire; vanquishing enemies, not just because he was ready to change, but because he had changed and prepared in advance.

To be prepared is half the victory.

At Lewis Ballard we’ve making far more strides than just getting ahead of MTD. We’re also launching our Lewis Ballard App. It’s packed with useful tools, to track mileage, upload your receipts oand calculate tax. It will give you fingertip access to Xero, Receipt Bank and many more programs to help streamline your business, with direct access to our portal to sign off documents on the go.

“ We’re also launching our Lewis Ballard App. It’s packed with useful tools.”

Neil and Janet Ballard

In addition, our bespoke program 4Sight gives us the ability to regularly predict your business future letting you pounce on opportunities, and dodge problems before they surface. 4Sight will raise your business planning capabilities beyond the monthly board meeting to the continuous nurture of your assets.

Convenience is key.

The eternal struggle for busy business owners is time management. How can I keep on top of bookkeeping? keep track of cashflow? Or predict what’s coming?

Xero, the LB App and 4Sight are big steps towards really catching business up with the on-the-go lives that we lead. Cloud accounting is secure and it saves time.

Apps are an integral part of the way we do business. So why wait to change?

To make it even easier for clients to navigate these systems, we’re integrating them with our brand new website, so that everything related to our service is connected to one, all encompassing, business hub. You don’t need as much 4Sight as Ghengis to see this is the way you need to go!

Lewis Ballard Celtic House, Caxton Place Pentwyn, Cardiff CF23 8HA 029 2073 5502 info@lewisballard.co.uk www.lewisballard.co.uk

CREATIVE ENGINEERING Bottle fed on code, Corey Hearne is part of a new breed of web developers - a generation that has been brought up on HTML, Wordpress and SEO. Corey thinks differently and, as his clients are finding out, he knows a thing or two about website design.

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enjoy working with people who are passionate about their business or service. We’ve built up a varied client base and with that an exciting portfolio. From recruitment agencies and local hairdressers to physiotherapy clinics and even a local builder - we’re really trying to reach out into as many sectors as possible. It’s really about people - if we like you, we’ll work with you.

Why is the company called Cog? There’s a few of us involved in the business and when we were deciding about branding, we had a brainstorm about the company name. We batted a few names around and we whittled it down to three possible options. We each then drew a possible logo to go with the names and Cog eventually came out on top. That’s also how we came up with the logo. It’s simple, we’re part of the machine - the client’s machine. We work better together.

Describe what you do/offer…

We’re a full service digital design agency. We try to offer businesses, or individuals, the complete package when it comes to any branding, web design or social media. It can become quite a mess when you’ve got one company doing one job and another doing something else. We keep everything in-house and that really helps us promote a brand in a coordinated and coherent way.

Are you formally trained?

My background is website development and there’s no formal qualification for that. Anybody can get into developing websites, you just need to be a little bit crazy because there’s a lot of code involved! Our Creative Director has over 30 years of experience working at some of the world’s best design and advertising agencies. We know what we’re doing. We’re no mugs.

be a lot more work involved when developing an eCommerce website but the companies who we have worked with so far have had fresh ideas about how to market their products and that’s really satisfying.

Describe your approach to business?

Just be open and honest. Whether it’s when you’re having a quick chat with someone you’re working with or giving a presentation to a potential new client. We’ve found the types of clients who we enjoy working with are those who are open and honest too and that helps us build trust with them. I think we have the right approach – people seem to like it.

What mistakes do people/businesses commonly make with their websites?

We’ve seen websites where the company hasn’t put any of their contact information, where links for news articles are broken and text that’s so small it can’t read. The worst website mistake a business can make is not having a responsive site that’s compatible on all mobile devices.

With 1.2 billion people across the world accessing the web through their phones, it’s a no brainer for a website to be mobile and tablet friendly.

Why would a business come to you?

We’re always open and honest about the whole process. No design speak, no fluff, no nonsense – we believe our approach is a refreshing change to the ‘usual’.

What other services do you offer?

We predominately offer branding, graphics and website creation.

We also offer SEO (search engine optimisation) and content management for websites and social media.

We’re also branching out into app development, with the way people are using mobile technology, it only seems right for businesses to offer a mobile application.

Do you offer eCommerce?

Yes certainly! With businesses looking to offer their services through the web with minimal fuss and online stores popping up ten to the dozen, it would be silly for us not to! There tends to

Are you busy? What kinds of businesses are you working with?

Cog started properly at the beginning of this year and we’re getting busier.

We’re always looking to take on exciting new projects and really

Are you expensive?

Good branding or a great website doesn’t have to cost a fortune. We have clients who have literally junked their old websites after talking to us. Why spend money trying to fix something that’s so awful when, for a third of the cost, you can have a brand new one?

What advice would you give to anyone starting out in business?

Try to get as much help as possible from those who have experienced starting their own business.

Are you happy working for yourself?

What do you like about it?

Yes, definitely! There’s something extremely satisfying about running your business. It’s not for everyone.

You have to be driven. Waking up every morning knowing that you are your own boss is pretty cool.

What have you learned so far in business?

When running your own business always take time to work ‘on’ it and not just ‘in’ it.

Sum yourself up in three words…

Honest. Determined. Jokester.

Cog Creative Valleys London Sydney (hopefully) corey@cogcreative.co.uk www.cogcreative.co.uk

WIN A MEAL FOR 4 AT JAMAICAN JILLS Beat the January blues with a chance to win a meal for four at Jamiacan Jills - Come food stay for the fun!

To enter email berniedavies@ jamaicanjills.com and quote ‘Gowerfun’. Closes 8/1/2018.

Jamaican Jills The City Gates, Little Wind Street SA1 1EE 01792 476222 www.jamaicanjills.com Check them out on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @jamaicanjillsswansea

Welcome to Gower Life Magazine’s Social Life section, a veritable who’s who in and around Gower, Mumbles & Swansea.

SOCIAL L IFE COWBRIDGE

Colours of Cowbridge celebrates 30 years!

In a world of generic high street fashions it is wonderful to see when a small independant business celebrates a landmark occasion, which is why Colours of Cowbridge’s 30th year celebration is such a massive achievement.

This wonderful shop is still going strong and decided to celebrate in style.

Starting the party at 9am Colours of Cowbridge invited their loyal regulars - along with anyone excited by new fashions - to come and join the fun. With baloons, chocolates, and (of course) a few glasses of bubbly, the celebrations lasted all day, finally coming to a happy end at 10pm!

With faces old and new toasting to their success, we wish all the best to Colours of Cowbridge, here is to another 30 years!

66 Eastgate, Cowbridge CF71 7AB 01446 774620 New website coming soon www.coloursofcowbridge.co.uk

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SWANSEA

Jamaican Jills’ Bernie Davies receives prestigious award Bernie’s efforts were celebrated recently by the Black History Association Wales and Race Council Cymru with an Excellence in Business Award at the National Assembly held launch of the 10th Annual Black History Month celebrations on September 29th.

This Award was with reference to her work as founder and operator of Jamaican Jills Swansea and Neath restaurant and cocktail bars something that came as a complete surprise to Bernie.

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No will - no say Speak to Wills and Trusts lawyer David King David is part of the award winning wills, tax, trusts and probate department at Slater and Gordon in Cardiff. He is an expert on dealing with the administration of estates and advises clients on the drafting of wills, lasting powers of attorney and trusts. He administers high value and complex estates including land, businesses, foreign assets and contentious aspects. His professional and tailored approach provides clients with the best possible advice to suit their individual needs.

He will ensure your affairs are in order – providing you with peace of mind.

Call us on 0292 192 1818 slatergordon.co.uk Offices in Cardiff and throughout the UK

* David King, STEP member

Family | Employment | Estate Planning, Wills and Probate Property | Serious Injury and Clinical Negligence

Slater and Gordon (UK) LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

THANK YOU Thanks for taking the time to read this edition of Gower Life magazine.

With a readership of over 30,000 between our print and online editions, if you are reading this, you’re in great company.

Quality is at the heart of everything we do and we cut no corners on design, production and the quality of our print.

Talking about printing, we source pretty much everything locally, and over 95% of our company’s turnover is reinvested back into the community.

If you have a business and are interested in promoting your goods or services to an aspirational audience in Gower, Mumbles or Swansea then Gower Life is almost certainly right for you.

Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts Editor jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

“Follow your heart, not your head.”

Kevin Green, Wealth Coach www.kevingreen.com

P ROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS We value our advertisers. We appreciate the trust they place in us by promoting their businesses in our magazines.

With our local partners, we currently publish a range of high quality quarterly titles across Wales.

You can advertise your business from as little as £35 per season in this magazine.

Pick-up-ability!

Our magazines aren’t like other magazines. They have real pick-up appeal - in fact, they really do go like hot cakes.

Quality comes first... along with the environment.

We’re passionate about quality. The magazines are beautifully written and designed, and printed locally in South Wales on high quality paper (and no nasty varnishes or lamination we’re as green as green can be).

Quality distribution to an affluent, aspirational audience...

We distribute our magazines to over 1,000 carefully selected outlets across South Wales.

We’d love to have your business on board.

If you’d like to promote your business or service in our magazines, please get in touch, we’d love the opportunity to work with you.

OUR TITLES We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title.

Vale Life (our first magazine).

This covers the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan - the most southerly county in Wales and deemed to be the most affluent. Vale Life was the first magazine we published.

City Life The premier lifestyle magazine for Cardiff, Wales’ capital city.

The magazine is delivered to all areas of Cardiff.

Valleys Life At the heart of the South Wales Valleys. From the Neath Valley in the West to Blaenau Gwent and Pontypool in the East.

West Life Covering Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and coastal Ceredigion, West Life is in touch with the relaxed lifestyle of this very special part of Wales.

In Business Wales’ premier magazine for people in business. This is the kind of publication people in business want to read; interesting, inspirational and aspirational.

WHAT A DVERTISERS SAY We proudly publish four Life-style magazines and one business to business title.

“The best advertising we’ve ever done!”

Andy Bradshaw, Partner, Hamptons, Penarth.

“Honestly, the best response I’ve ever had.”

Matt Mullooly, Owner, Northern Star, Penarth.

“At last, advertising that really delivers.”

Ann Bryl, Owner, Bryl’s Boutique, Barry.

“A truly astonishing response.”

Russell Scott-Lawson, Owner, Hawkes, Cardiff.

“The experience I have had with this magazine has restored my faith in advertising. Gauci Organic Candles is a small business with an equally small advertising budget. We have to make every pound count and that’s what we get with Vale Life, City Life and Valleys Life. It’s refreshing to find a magazine that really understands my business. They are never short of ideas. I recommend them whenever I can.”

Spiro Gauci, Owner, Gauci Organic Candles, Cardiff www.gaucicandles.co.uk “These are beautiful publications. We love working with people who are passionate about what they do.”

Spiro Borg, Spiros Caterers, www.spiros.co.uk We’d love the opportunity to show you what a truly effective campaign in our publications can achieve.

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St P Peters eters H Hall, all, St Peters Peters Street, Street, Cardiff Cardifff CF24 3BA T el: 029 2049 4425 • www.spiros.co.uk www w..spiros.co.uk • info@spiros.co.uk inffo o@sp os.co.uk o@spir Tel: Find us o on nF Facebook acebook @SPIROSCATERERS @SP IROSCA AT TE TERERS