Quarter Life – Autumn 2013

issue two / autumn 2013

COUNCIL COLLABORATIONS JQDT AND BCC WORK TOGETHER TO IMPROVE THE AREA HOME SWEET HOME EXPLORE THE OPTIONS FOR LIVING IN THE JQ

RETAIL THERAPY Discover theJewellery Quarter’s unique shopping scene

LIVE LEARN WORK VISIT

JEWELLERY QUARTER www.jewelleryquarter.net

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE JEWELLERY QUARTER

4 5 6 8 9 10 LIVE LEARN WORK VISIT

NEWS New tourist attraction, Quarter Lifestyle event and photography exhibition at Urban Coffee Company.

BUSINESS PROFILE car2go.

MAKING POSITIVE PROGRESS Update on JQ BID and Birmingham City Council initiatives.

TAKE THE HERITAGE TRAIL Explore the Jewellery Quarter’s historical sites.

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

The JQ BID ambassadors.

INNOVATION BOHEM nails.

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE JEWELLERY QUARTER

on the cover

OUR EIGHT-PAGE PULL-OUT GUIDE TO THE JQ’S RETAIL OFFERING.

Charlotte Burton models a range of jewellery items made and/or sold in the Jewellery Quarter.

Thank you to the following companies for providing their products or services for the cover shot:

11 12 13 14 16 17

JEWELLERY Domino – www.dominojewellery.com Fellows Auctioneers – www.fellows.co.uk Element Bespoke Jewellery – www.elementbespokejewellery.com James Newman – www.jamesnewman.co.uk

MODEL Alan Sharman Agency www.alansharmanagency.com

PHOTOGRAPHY TipTop Photography Ltd www.tiptop-photography.com

HAIR Harris and Gibbs www.harrisandgibbs.com

19 20

MAKEUP James Minahan www.jamesmbeauty.co.uk

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THE REAL DEAL Turner Fine Art. LIFE THROUGH A LENS Midlands Fashion Awards and British Jazz Awards.

I JQ David Smith talks about family life.

CITY LIVING Properties available to buy or rent.

HITTING THE RIGHT NOTES Progress Music Academy.

CLASS IN SESSION News from Abbey College Birmingham, University College Birmingham, Perry Beeches II and The Quarterworkshop.

ON THE BEAT WITH...

The Jewellery Quarter Neighbourhood Police team.

COFFEE CHALLENGE Local businesses raise £7,500 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

AUTUMN 2013

ISSUE TWO AUTUMN 2013 Editor: Laura Butler laura@barquespr.co.uk 0121 233 2080

AND WELCOME TO THE SECOND ISSUE OF QUARTERlife THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE JEWELLERY QUARTER.

Design & Art Direction: Lee Haynes

B

y its very name the Jewellery Quarter has always been known for its excellent jewellery shops. But there is so much more; independent fashion retailers, cafĂŠs, restaurants Luke Crane, and attractions, set within JQ BID Manager the hustle and bustle of an urban village. In this issue of QUARTERlife, our eight-page pull-out guide looks at all the different retailers in the area, which provide an alternative shopping scene to Birmingham city centre.

Photography: TipTop Photography Lee Haynes MJones Photography Contributors: Wendy Roach, JQ BID ambassador Phil Burlace, JQ BID ambassador Stephen Turner, Turner Fine Art David Smith, Turley Associates Steve Smith, Progress Music Academy Gary Walmsley, Progress Music Academy Sergeant Matt McVeigh, Jewellery Quarter Neighbourhood Police

The area is steeped in history and we are very proud of our heritage. Our aim is to ensure we preserve our historical sites and celebrate our heritage whilst ensuring we offer new and innovative ways to cater for the mix of businesses and residents coming here.

We are working closely with Birmingham City Council and other stakeholders to ensure Jewellery Quarter businesses have a role in driving this agenda forward. Read on for a suggested walking trail (pg 8) to take in some of the heritage sites and to hear how the Jewellery Quarter BID and city council (pg 6) are working together to improve the area.

CONTACT US For Jewellery Quarter BID enquiries: luke.crane@jqdt.org 0121 233 2814

A magazine by:

In recent years the Quarter has become a desirable place to live. In particular, more families are attracted to the area as it provides an opportunity to raise children in a safe, urban environment. Our I JQ feature (pg 13) focuses on a father who is raising his family here and we look at the types of residential property available in the area (pg 14).

JEWELLERY QUARTER BID

www.jewelleryquarter.net

With a secondary school, three colleges and a university campus, the Jewellery Quarter is a great place to study. Jewellery and creative experts also hold workshops and lessons to teach people new skills. See pages 17 – 18 for a round-up of news from some of our educational institutions.

Designed and produced by:

enjoy!

www.barques.co.uk

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NEWS

THE SCHOOL OF JEWELLERY IS HOSTING AN EVENT TO SHOWCASE THE JEWELLERY QUARTER’S RETAIL OFFERING TO BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS IN THE CITY CENTRE. Quarter Lifestyle – organised by the JQ BID – will take place on 24th October (6pm – 8pm) at the Vittoria Street venue.

Local retailers will have displays for guests to purchase items, such as jewellery, giftware and accessories for the home, and see what fantastic pieces are designed and made here. Fashion blogger Beth Goodrham will also be on hand to provide style advice.

Jilly Cosgrove, director of the JQ BID, said: “The Quarter Lifestyle event is designed to show the people of Birmingham that they don’t have to go to out-of-town retail outlets or London for their designer jewellery or style ideas, when it’s all here on their doorstep.”

Fun for the family A

n exciting new tourist attraction that will be popular with all ages is coming to the Jewellery Quarter next year.

Wonderful World of Trains & Planes – an interactive attraction – will open just off St Paul’s Square in the former Derwent Foundry building.

The attraction traces the history of trains and planes throughout the world. It has been designed to thrill audiences with cleverly created scenery changes and the use of new technologies to bring the model world to life.

Managing director Peter Smith said: “Wonderful World has been a dream of mine for many years, so to see it coming together is so exciting. The Jewellery Quarter is the perfect location for this fabulous new tourist attraction that will be fun for all ages, which will evolve and grow and reflect the innovation that Birmingham is championing.”

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Snapshot of the Jewellery Quarter T

hroughout October, people visiting Urban Coffee Company at the Big Peg for their caffeine fix will also be able to view an exhibition of photographs from around the Jewellery Quarter.

Members of the Smethwick Photographic Society have each interpreted the area in their own way to produce a series of collections featuring key sites and themes, such as St Paul’s Church, the cemeteries, jewellery workshops, and architecture.

Photographer Kaz Diller said: “My collection looks at how the area has changed since the 1970s. I restored some old negatives and then rephotographed the same scenes. It’s interesting to compare the two pictures and observe how the buildings and area have changed over time.”

AUTUMN 2013

BUSINESS PROFILE

in the

DRIVING seat

QUARTERlife TEST DRIVES THE SMART NEW WAY TO GET AROUND THE CITY.

S

ince launching in Birmingham earlier this year, car2go has become a popular way to get from A to B.

A variety of people – from local residents doing their weekly shop to business professionals going to a meeting – are using the pay as you drive scheme to suit their transport needs.

The Birmingham branch, based on Fleet Street in the Jewellery Quarter, operates a fleet of 250 SMART cars used by 5,000 registered members, making an average of 2,000 journeys per week.

The driving initiative was developed by Daimler AG – the German automotive company behind Mercedes-Benz and the SMART car. There are 21 operations across Europe and North America.

At just 35p per minute – including fuel, parking, insurance and tax – car2go is a flexible and costeffective addition to other modes of transport.

To use the cars, people need to sign up online as an individual member and take

their driving licence to the Fleet Street office to be checked. They will then receive their member card through the post, allowing them to gain access to the vehicles via the card reader on the windscreen. Members can also register in-store, where they will receive their access card straightaway.

The cars come equipped with the key, a sat nav and a fuel card, which can be used in the unlikely event that less than 20% of fuel is left.

There’s no limit to where you can travel in the car but, to end the rental, it must be returned to the home area which currently spans 34 square miles of the city.

If there’s no car2go in your street, members can use the car2go app to identify where the next available ones are parked. The app can also be used to reserve a car 30 minutes before it is required. car2go has also recently launched a corporate account where businesses can receive monthly invoices and register individual members as named drivers. The JQ BID team has already signed up!

To register or view a map of the home area, visit www.car2go.com/en/birmingham

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WAYFINDING

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

The Jewellery Quarter is set to implement a tried and tested wayfinding system to help people navigate their way around the area.

Interconnect Birmingham uses a combination of wayfinding ‘totems’, public transport information, signage posts and a new royalty-free mapping base, to ensure that visitors have the best possible experience of the city.

The totems have already been successfully installed around New Street and Colmore Row and will now be rolled out to the surrounding areas, including the Jewellery Quarter.

The JQ BID will purchase additional totems to enhance the coverage in the area.

Work on the foundations will begin in November 2013, with the main installation taking place in January 2014. The project will be completed by the end of March 2014.

There are a number of opportunities for Jewellery Quarter businesses to secure funding to support company growth.

Probrand – a technology services provider based on Camden Street – is one of many companies that secured a grant from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

A pot of £4 million is available to companies looking to develop vacant, derelict or underused properties into quality business floorspace.

Probrand recently invested £320,000 in its headquarters to create additional office space and 10 new jobs.

The investment was supported by £100,000 of ERDF money, which has allowed the company to renovate a previously derelict area of its offices to create enough space for up to 59 people.

This has allowed Probrand to free up existing space within the building to accommodate the growth of its sister companies, IT services business Icomm Technologies and enterprise application provider, Mercato Solutions.

FASTER BROADBAND SPEEDS Digital Birmingham is putting the final touches to a number of schemes to help introduce high speed broadband into the city’s Enterprise Zones, including the Jewellery Quarter. It is working with the Government and Internet providers to make some exciting announcements later this year. www.digitalbirmingham.co.uk

www.birmingham.gov.uk/erdf

OTHER FUNDING

NEW PUBLIC REALM SPACE A contractor for Golden Square – an exciting public realm project on Warstone Lane – is about to be appointed.

Businesses around the site will be contacted before work starts in January to make them aware of the planned programme of activity. The project is due to be completed in spring 2014.

GREEN BRIDGE SUPPLY CHAIN PROGRAMME: Grant support of between £20,000 – £100,000 is available to help existing SMEs to help grow and diversify into the green sector. www.birmingham.gov.uk/greenbridge

bigcityplan.birmingham.gov.uk

START-UP LOANS: Loans of up to £10,000 are available for all business sectors. To be eligible you will need to be aged between 18 and 30.

PROJECT RED BRIDGE

www.birmingham.gov.uk/startuploans

The JQ BID, city council and Colmore BID are working together to make improvements to the footbridge over Great Charles Street.

The main focus will be to improve the lighting on the bridge and to the area inside Embassy House. The bridge is one of the main routes into the Jewellery Quarter, linking Ludgate Hill to Church Street. Work is expected to start in spring 2014.

QUARTERLife

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME: This initiative supports existing SMEs across the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) area to implement their growth plans. www.birmingham.gov.uk/bdp

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Argent Centre

fronting Frederick Street Once the pen factory of W E Wiley and now home to The Pen Museum.

School of Jewellery

Vittoria Street

JW Evans

Albion Street The former silver plate works was re cently restored by English Heritage.

Newhall Hill

The site of huge political rallies in the 1820s and 30s.

Thomas Fattorini

Regent Street One of the oldest manufacturing companies in the Quarter.

The am Birmingh ce ffi Assay O t

Victoria Works

tree Newhall S

Vittoria Street A former pen nib factory.

Chamberlain Clock

The Big Peg

Elkington Works

Newhall Stre et The process of electroplati ng was developed here.

Vyse Street Now office accommodation for a host of creative industries.

Warstone Lane Cemetery

The catatomb of John the Baskerville, creator of is ce, efa typ lle Baskervi located here.

Quarter Jewellery Centre Business t Jewellery Quarter Station and Metro

ee Spencer Str shops rk o w er rm These fo onverted d ired an c were repa rnwall chy of Co by the Du 991. in 1

THIS WALKING TOUR ENABLES VISITORS TO EXPLORE THE JEWELLERY

Vyse Street

QUARTER’S RICH HERITAGE WITH STOPS AT KEY

Key Hill Cemetery

Hylton Street Famous reside nts include politic ian Joseph Chamberlain and Joseph Bird, the inve ntor of Bird’s custard.

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HISTORICAL SITES.

Museum of the Jewellery Quarter Vyse Street

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WITH THE JQ BID AMBASSADORS are St Paul’sonSlyqusurviving

’s Birmingham n square. ia rg eo G

PHIL BURLACE AND WENDY ROACH HAVE BECOME FAMILIAR FACES AROUND THE JEWELLERY QUARTER. QUARTERlife

CAUGHT UP WITH THEM TO SEE HOW THEY ARE SETTLING IN.

RBSA Gallery

treet Brook S

Tell us what the JQ BID ambassador role involves: Phil: A key part of our role is to work with local businesses. We make regular visits to keep them up-to-date with BID news, find out what BID activities are working well for their business and to discuss any issues or concerns they may have that we can help with.

Wendy: We do footfall counts three times a week, which gives us the perfect opportunity to welcome visitors to the area and provide help with directions to attractions, shops, restaurants and bars. Ensuring visitors feel we are easy to approach and there to help is very important. We also try to be aware of everything that is going on so that we are always able to help.

What do you enjoy about the job?

Regent Place

A blue plaque m arks where inventor James Watt once lived.

P: Every day is different and we meet lots of interesting people. It’s very helpful to discuss BID projects with businesses to get their ideas and experiences.

We feed this back to ensure that their views are taken into account.

W: I like helping people make the most of their time here. Everyone knows we have jewellery shops but people are surprised to hear there is so much more to do. It’s great to have a role promoting the area and building a rapport with visitors.

Can the area be improved from a visitor’s perspective?

Download the full heritage trail map at www.jewelleryquarter.net/ visit/things-to-do

P: The BID is working on a number of improvements, including signage and wayfinding, which will really help to guide visitors around the area.

W: Ensuring visitors have a good experience is key. We aim to provide the friendly smile, helpful information and enthusiasm to ensure they want to come back again.

Wendy and Phil can be seen around the Jewellery Quarter six days a week in their distinctive blue blazers. The JQ BID team can be contacted on 0121 233 2814.

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INNOVATION

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t’s taken jewellers Joe Vella, and Raj and Kam Lawla two years to develop a fashion product that would ensure wearers stand out from the crowd – but now they’ve finally nailed it.

I

“Available in three sizes, BOHEM nails are designed to sit comfortably on your natural nail. Pop on, mix and match jewellery nails are infinitely reusable so you can change your nail look as quickly as your wardrobe.”

BOHEM nails are high quality, sterling silver, gold and enamel handmade nail jewellery that are available in a range of styles and colours.

The nail sets range from £25 for a pair of sterling silver nails through to £120 for a pair of 24 carat gold plated nails or single nails from as little as £14.

Creative director Lucy Whitehill said: “There has been an explosion in nail art in recent years – we’ve taken it a step further and created pieces of nail jewellery that can be used again and again. The response has been phenomenal.

All BOHEM jewellery is hallmarked by The Birmingham Assay Office and lovingly produced in-house by the design team based on Warstone Lane.

“With 75 design options, there is a nail to suit every mood or occasion. They can be easily applied using the super strong adhesive tabs supplied with each nail set.

Visit www.bohem.co.uk to view the full collection and place an order, or call 0845 548 0846.

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AUTUMN 2013

QUARTERlife’s

guide to shopping in the Jewellery Quarter

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AUTUMN 2013

With more than 100 jewellers in the Jewellery Quarter, visitors won’t find a better choice of high quality items elsewhere in the UK. Whether you’re looking for a brand name, such as Thomas Sabo, or something unique, you’re guaranteed to find it here.

But it’s not all about jewellery. We also have florists, newsagents and independent fashion retailers – all the shops you’d expect to find in a developing retail area.

AUCTION HOUSE 1

Fellows & Sons Auctioneers, Augusta Street Fellows has everything to offer both casual buyers and serious collectors with its antique jewellery pieces, watches and designer items such as Bulgari, Cartier, Kutchinsky and Tiffany & Co. A monthly sale takes place with around 500 – 600 lots available.

6 GM International, 54 Northampton Street 7 Hockley Watch Centre, 16 Hockley Street 8 R.G. Hancocks Watch & Clock Ltd, 17 Warstone Mews

JEWELLERY 9

CAR DEALERSHIP 2 BMW Sytner, 20 and 25 – 37 The Parade

C LO C K S & WATC H E S 3 Britain Clockcase Ltd, 41 Northampton Street 4 Creative Watch Co. Ltd, 106 – 108 Vyse Street 5 F Meeks & Co, 197 Warstone Lane

Vyse Street and Warstone Lane are lined with shops.

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A & A Jewellery, 34 Northampton Street S 10 Alice Stewart, Unit 6, 94 Spencer Street 11 S Artfull Expression, 23 – 24 Warstone Lane 12

Aspire Diamonds, 35 Warstone Lane G P 13 Bickerton Jewellery, 23 Vyse Street 14

Birmingham Stone Cutting Ltd, 36 Augusta Street

S G P 15 Bond & Martin Jewellers, 17 Vyse Street

25

Design Centre, 114 Vyse Street

34 Eternity Fine Jewellers Ltd, 41 Vyse Street

44 Harvey Adams Jewellers, 105 Vyse Street

G P

Bradley’s Gold Jewels, 197c Warstone Lane

Designer Jewel, 4 Augusta Street

35 Fei Liu Fine Jewellery, 204 – 206 Newhall Street

45 Henrick the Jewellers, 9 Warstone Mews

S 17 Bullring Jewellers, 2 Augusta Street

G P 27 Diamond Dealer Direct Ltd, 42 – 43 Warstone Lane

36 Fellows Antique Jewellery, 21 Vyse Street

S 46 Highly Strung Designs, 18 Hockley Street

S G P 37 Fine Design Retail Ltd, 90 Vyse Street

47 Hockley Diamonds, 5 Warstone Lane

G P 38 G.C.R. Jewellery, 16 Warstone Mews

S G P 48 J&M Jewellers, 39 Warstone Lane

G 39 GH Moore & Son, 19 Vyse Street

P 49 James Newman, 49 Vyse Street

S 40 G L Bicknells & Sons Ltd, 12 Vyse Street

Jewellery Quarter Ltd, 91 Vyse Street

G 41 Goldcraft Products, 117 Vyse Street

S G 51 Julia Ann Davenport Jewellery, Unit 6, 94 Spencer Street

S G P 42 Grant Sawyer Jewellers, 18 Vyse Street

52 Juniper Jewellers, 4 Hylton Street

43 Hallmark Jewellery, 116 Vyse Street

S G P 53 Kensington Jewellery, 88 Vyse Street

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18 Cirrus Diamonds, 41 – 42 Warstone Lane 19 Classic Diamonds, 16 Vyse Street 20 Clearwater Diamonds, 15 Warstone Lane 21 Crest Jewellery, 44 Vyse Street

S G 22 Crock ‘O’ Gold, Unit 1, 56 Spencer Street 23 Crown Jules, 9 Warstone Lane 24 Crystalink Jewellery, 35 Hall Street

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Diamond Dezigns, Unit 8, The Big Peg, Warstone Lane 29

Diamond Heaven, 115 Vyse Street G Discount Gold and Silver Jewellery, 44 Warstone Lane 30

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Dripgold Ltd, 43 Vyse Street G P 32 Element Bespoke Jewellery, 3 Warstone Lane 33 Estelle Jewellery, 42 Hylton Street

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KEY TO JEWELLERS’ SERVICES:

Wedding, engagement and eternity rings Special occasions Bespoke items Diamonds Gemstones Antique / Vintage

Regimental

Online only

S Silver jewellery G Gold P Platinum

Watches Jewellery classes Costume jewellery

Brands

Designer

Celtic-inspired

Pearl

Repairs service

Charm jewellery

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K.M. Taylor Jewellery, 15 Warstone Mews

G P 68 Newey’s Jewellers, 103 – 104 Vyse Street

82 Rhiannon Lewis Jewellery, Unit 6, 94 Spencer Street

G 55 Krypton Jewellers Ltd, 21 – 22 Hall Street

S G P 69 Number One Jewellery, 1 Warstone Lane

G P 83 Samson Gold, 9 Vyse Street

56 La Mons Jewellery, 20 Vyse Street

G 70 Obsession Fine Diamond Jewellery, 7 Warstone Mews

S G P 84 Selectivegold, 40 Augusta Street

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G P 57 Lloyds Jewellers, 3 Warstone Lane G P 58 Lois Jewellery Ltd, 41 – 42 Frederick Street 59

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S G P 85 Shirley’s, 30 Northampton Street

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S G 86 Silver Seagull Ltd, 35 Augusta Street

Panache Fine Jewellers, 12 Warstone Mews Paul Green Jewellers, 27 Warstone Lane 73

Lora Leedham, Studio 6, 23-24 Warstone Lane

Pearl Gallery, 50 Vyse Street

60 Lynall & Co, 102 Vyse Street

PK Craddock Jewellers, 38 Vyse Street

61 Manna Bros. Jewellers, 16 Hockley Street

G 75 PK Jewellers, 97 Vittoria Street

62 Marlow’s Jewellers, 46 Warstone Lane

G P 76 Platinum Jewellers, 40 Vyse Street

63 Mayfair Jewellery, 10 Warstone Mews

G P 77 Premier Diamonds Ltd, 14 Warstone Mews

G 64 Me Diamonds Ltd, 37 Warstone Lane

78 Quarter Jewellery, 29 Warstone Lane

S G P 65 Michele Designer Jewellery, 23 – 24 Warstone Lane

79 Regency Jewellers of Hockley, 112 Vyse Street

S 66 Mitchel & Co, Unit 4, The Big Peg Warstone Lane

G 80 Riches Jewellery, 32 Warstone Lane

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Mokume, 42 Vyse Street

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G 81 Ritz Fine Jewellery, 15 Vyse Street

87 S.P. Green & Co. Ltd, 11 Warstone Mews; Heritage Court, Warstone Lane; 34 Warstone Lane

The Jewellery Quarter is perfect for engagement, wedding or eternity rings.

88 Stanley’s the Jewellers, 113 Vyse Street 89 Steward & McClean, 37a Vyse Street 90 Summer & Silver, 88 Vyse Street

P 91 The Diamond Centre, 36 Warstone Lane S G 92 The Golden Purse, 118 Vyse Street

If you’re looking for something unique, many jewellers will create bespoke items.

S G 93 The Silver Fish Company, 48 Vyse Street 94 Tiffany’s Diamonds, 3 Augusta Street

S G P 95 Touchstone Jewellery Ltd, 36 Northampton Street Award-winning designers, such as James Newman, are based here.

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V & F Parker, 51 Vyse Street 97 Vault 88, 89 Vyse Street 98 Victoria James, 39 Vyse Street

G P 99 Wards, 22 Vyse Street P 100 Warstone Jewellers, 33 Warstone Lane

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W&P Accessories, 37 Vyse Street Dresses and accessories for wedding, proms and other special occasions.

FLORISTS 107

In Bloom Ltd, 87 Vyse Street 108 Red Rose Florist, 47 Vyse Street

F O O D R E TA I L E R S E N G R AV E R 101

A R T Engraving, 60 Northampton Street

109

CC’s Hot & Cold Food, 65 Caroline Street 110

Greggs, 35 Frederick Street 111

CLOTHING & FA SHION ACCESSORIES

Subway, 40a Frederick Street

102

The Pizza Quarter, 38 Warstone Lane

Braderie Vintage and New, 13 – 15 Caroline Street Offers a range of women’s and men’s clothing and accessories.

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UCB Cakes and bakes, Summer Row campus

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Gosia Weber Handmade, 53a Frederick Street Specialises in making hand crafted leather and fabric bags.

GALLERIES

104

RBSA Gallery, 4 Brook Street

Karlus G. Tailor, Unit 5, 100 Spencer Street 105

Kraft Cufflinks Suite 310, The Jewellery Business Centre, 95 Spencer Street

Braderie offers a range of new and vintage clothing and accessories.

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St Paul’s Gallery, 94 Northwood Street 116

Turner Fine Art, 27 Warstone Lane Viewing by appointment only.

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Consulate General of India

Jewellery Quarter Police Station

Information Centre

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College of Law

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Post Office

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The Big Peg

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Vyse Street

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The Blue Orange Theatre

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Jewellery Quarter

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St George’s Community Hub

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Museum of the Jewellery Quarter

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City Centre

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Glassdomain Ltd, 199 Warstone Lane

Rosella’s Cafe & Convenience Store, 41 George Street

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GM Glass Design, 59a Caroline Street

Shoppers can also find items for the home, like these contemporary statement pieces by Glassdomain.

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JDD Furniture 2 The Boxworks, Carver Street Viewing by appointment only.

MODELS & HOBBIES

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Simply Local, 60 St Paul’s Square 134

Supershop, 9 – 10 The Big Peg 135

Tesco Express, Frederick Street; Great Hampton Street; Camden Street

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Parabellum, 54 Vyse Street

OFFICE SUPPLIES 136

MUSIC 126

Delta Pi, 60 Frederick Street Also sells art equipment.

Guitar Spares and Repairs, 37 Northampton Street 127

The Little Guitar Shop, 58 Spencer Street Silver giftware, such as these jar and bottle tops manufactured

by L J Millington, is sold at The Birmingham Assay Office.

G I F T WA R E 117

Artfull Expression, 23 – 24 Warstone Lane Sells handmade silver jewellery and items by local designer makers.

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Crescent Silver, 83 – 85 Spencer Street Specialises in silverware.

LJ Millington, www.silverpuresilver.co.uk

NEWSAGENTS & CONVENIENCE STORES

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Pomegranate, 15 Warstone Lane

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The Birmingham Assay Office, Newhall Street Sells items designed and made by local designer makers.

Kwik Stop, 220 Livery Street 129 Lithuanica, 12 Livery Street 130

Lloyds News, 87 Newhall Street HOME FURNISHINGS

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Machan Express, 101 Newhall Street

El Dorado, 22a Augusta Street

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AUTUMN 2013

PENS

Jack Row, www.jackrow.com Designs and creates writing instruments and accessories.

TROPHIES 137

Eaglesfield Trophies Ltd, 18 Vyse Street

WINE MERCHANTS 138

Connolly’s Wine Merchants, 220 Livery Street 139

Wine Lord, 106 Constitution Hill

THE REAL DEAL Turner Fine Art specialises in buying and selling original artwork.

Owner Stephen Turner gives QUARTERlife a VIP pass to view his collections.

Nestled away off Warstone Lane, Turner Fine Art exhibits pieces from some of the most sought-after names in the art world.

R.J. Mitchell – designer of the Spitfire – and Alan Turing – mathematician, wartime code-breaker and pioneer of computer science.

Stephen Turner’s interest in art stemmed from an early career working in a foundry casting bronze sculptures. His passion for sculptures is evident in his collections, where they are displayed alongside a variety of different art genres.

Stephen said: “We specialise in original artwork and are always on the look out for new artists to add to our collection. From sculptures and specialised brush techniques to pencil drawings and street art – we aim to cater for all tastes and budgets.

The gallery has collections from the likes of Temper, the graffiti artist who created public art for The Cube in Birmingham; Willard Wigan MBE, a Birmingham-born creator of micro-sculptures; Kieran Crowder, known for his distinctive figurative paintings; and Stephen Kettle, a sculptor of iconic statues including

“I often get commissions from large corporates to find artwork for their offices or high-profile clients looking to add to their private collections.

We also exhibit celebrity collections and are looking forward to welcoming an exciting addition to the gallery later this year, which will be of interest to cricket fans.”

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SUMMER 2013

Viewing is by private appointment only. Visit www.turnerfinearts.com or call 0121 241 8608.

Art lovers will also be interested in visiting St Paul’s Gallery (Northwood Street) and the RBSA Gallery (Brook Street).

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MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS 2013 LAUNCH Vertu Bar on Frederick Street recently hosted a networking soirée to launch the Midlands Fashion Awards 2013.

The event, attended by fashionistas and wellknown Radio 1 and ITV presenters such as Frankie McCamley and Lucy Kite, showcased the Accessory Designer and Makeup Artist finalists.

The talented hopefuls were judged on the night with the winner being announced at the main event in October at The Penthouse in Birmingham’s Southside.

A raffle also raised funds for Birmingham-based charity Acorns Children’s Hospice.

Photo: Andrew Riley, editor-in-chief of Style Birmingham magazine, Jenny Eason, founder and managing director of Midlands Fashion Awards, and Lucy Kite, ITV presenter.

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2013 BRITISH JAZZ AWARDS Music fans descended on St Paul’s Church to honour the finest musicians on the UK jazz scene at the 2013 British Jazz Awards.

The event was delivered in partnership with the Jewellery Quarter BID and the Birmingham International Jazz & Blues Festival.

The hosts – Birmingham soul legend Jaki Graham and Jim Simpson, founder of the British Jazz Awards – presented semi quaver awards to 16 category winners and a special treble clef to the winner of the Services to Jazz category.

The awards were provided by WH Darby Ltd, based on Well Street, while The Birmingham Assay Office engraved the winners’ names.

Photo: (front row) Jim Simpson, Jaki Graham and David Mahony, chairman of the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust, with the winners of the 2013 British Jazz Awards.

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QUARTERLife

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AUTUMN 2013

LUCY CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.LUCYCLARKPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

I have enjoyed the Jewellery Quarter’s offering for the best part of ten years as I previously lived on Great Charles Street. Working in the city centre means my commute is just a 15-minute walk.

Having finally settled as a family in the heart of the Quarter, we love its vibe, facilities and intimacy.

There is something quite special about being part of such a varied and animated area where businesses and residents successfully co-exist.

Our weekends can be quite varied.

When we are not entertaining family and friends and showing them the best the area has to offer, we tend to have quite laidback weekends. I enjoy taking

my daughter for a morning stroll before the rest of the Quarter

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TO RAISE A FAMILY DAVID SMITH, AGED 39, IS A DIRECTOR OF TURLEY

really wakes up. It’s nice to explore some of the quieter streets and witness the many changes taking place in the area as it continues to attract more investment.

great place to raise a family. The

The Jewellery Quarter is a

area’s close proximity to the city centre means a better prospect of a good work/ life balance – I can enjoy city living whilst raising my daughter in a quieter urban environment. As more and more families realise the possibilities for living in the area, it would be nice to see more child-friendly places such as pocket parks and early school provision introduced.

ASSOCIATES IN BIRMINGHAM. HE AND HIS PARTNER HAVE LIVED IN THE JEWELLERY QUARTER FOR OVER FIVE YEARS. WITH A LITTLE ONE NOW IN TOW AND A SECOND ON THE WAY, DAVID EXPLAINS HOW THE AREA IS SUITED FOR FAMILIES.

QUARTERLife

AUTUMN 2013

Looking for a children’s nursery?

Try San’s Day Nursery (Hall Street), The Old Fire Station (Albion Street) or Kinder Day Nursery (Livery Street).

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LIVE

QUARTERlife

speaks to local residential agents to explore the range of properties available to buy or rent.

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QUARTERLife

AUTUMN 2013

LIVE

In recent years the Jewellery Quarter has become one of the most desirable suburbs of Birmingham to live in. The urban village’s bustling social scene is attracting young professionals and couples, while more mature people have embraced its rich heritage.

The area offers a variety of accommodation – from townhouses to apartments – to buy or rent.

Here are some examples of the types of properties available for anyone looking to join the 6,500 people that already call the Jewellery Quarter home.

for

for

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sale

rent

BEVERLEY HALL COURT

LUDGATE LOFTS

AMAZON LOFTS

REGENT PARADE

LUDGATE HILL

TENBY STREET

£325,000 TO £365,000

OFFERS OVER £140,000

£695 PCM

This development of 12 impressive two, three and fourstorey townhouses comprises part grade II conversions and new buildings.

The townhouses boast original period features, contemporarystyle fully-fitted kitchens, two or three bedrooms, family-sized bathrooms, off-street parking and a communal courtyard.

These spacious apartments near Snow Hill train station include a living/dining area, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. The living space boasts high ceilings and exposed brick walls, large double glazed windows and courtyard views. Residents have the added security benefits of underground parking and an entry/intercom system.

agent’s advice

agent’s advice

These furnished New York loftstyle apartments are located in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter. The accommodation comprises an open plan lounge and kitchen area, a contemporary bathroom with separate shower, and one bedroom plus a bed deck area. Residents benefit from a concierge service, allocated secure parking, and permits for on-street parking are available.

Philip Jackson says: “Beverley Hall Court is a building steeped in history. Dating back to 1838, the former manufacturing property has been developed to retain many of its unique architectural features.

“It is situated near the picturesque St Paul’s Square and is just a few minutes walk from the city’s main shopping area and public transport. The development has a range of accommodation options to suit young professionals and families alike.”

Andy McHugo says: “Ludgate Lofts is a popular address as it offers large, contemporary apartments on the doorstep of Snow Hill train station. Perfect for commuters or those working in Birmingham’s financial district and for people wanting to enjoy the bars and restaurants on St Paul’s Square.

“As the Jewellery Quarter BID continues to improve the area, buying a property here is sure to be a good investment for the future.”

Marcel Woodhouse says: “Amazon Lofts are within walking distance of local amenities, including the Tesco supermarket and Barclays Bank, and the Jewellery Quarter station for train and metro connections.

“Renting is a viable option for anyone who wants to live in the city but doesn’t want to or can’t afford to commit to a mortgage.

It also allows tenants to check out what the area has to offer before considering settling down here.”

Maguire Jackson www.maguirejackson.com 0121 634 1520

James Laurence Estate Agents www.jameslaurenceuk.com 0121 604 4060

York Laurent www.york-laurent.co.uk 0121 236 5757

agent’s advice

For more information about these and other properties available in the Jewellery Quarter, please contact the agents directly.

QUARTERLife

AUTUMN 2013

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LEARN

FANCY YOURSELF AS THE NEXT BRIAN MAY OR JAMIE CULLUM? GARY WALMSLEY AND STEVE SMITH FROM PROGRESS MUSIC ACADEMY SAY IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO START MAKING MUSIC.

What instruments do you teach?

Can you be too old to start learning an instrument?

What characteristics do you need to play an instrument?

How much are lessons?

Drums, guitar, piano, keyboard and bass guitar. We are also vocal coaches, manage a choir and have a recording studio.

Anyone can play an instrument but patience and dedication are important traits to have.

Which are the easiest instruments to pick up?

The keyboard is an appropriate instrument for young students.

It’s instantly gratifying as you can play simple songs from the first lesson.

How long does it take to learn to play?

It depends on the students’ attainment level and how much practise they can do between lessons. Usually, you can achieve a competent level in around six months of regular lessons.

Not at all. We have students who are 60+ that are just starting. For some students it’s a fun hobby and a chance to learn a new skill, while others want to achieve the grades.

Standard prices for an instrument lesson are £25 per hour or £15 per half hour. We offer a 20% discount on the introductory lesson and large discounts on bulk lesson deals.

How can people get involved in the choir?

The choir is open to people aged 16 or over of all experience and ability.

Anyone is welcome to join us on Thursday evenings, 7pm – 9pm.

Progress Music Academy in Northampton Street is kitted out with top of the range instruments provided by its sponsors Marshall Amplification and Natal Drums. www.progress-academy.co.uk

special offer!

Progress Music Academy is offering the first 30 people to get in touch a 40% discount on an hour lesson.

Simply email info@progress-academy.co.uk and quote QLife40.

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QUARTERLife

AUTUMN 2013

LEARN

Class in session

NEWS FROM THE JEWELLERY QUARTER’S LEARNING FACILITIES

ABBEY COLLEGE BIRMINGHAM APPOINTS NEW PRINCIPAL Abbey College Birmingham has strengthened its position as a leading independent college with the appointment of a new principal.

Stephen Robinson has more than 20 years’ experience as a head and senior leader in schools, both in the UK and abroad. He joins the college, based on St Paul’s Square, from a highly respected international boarding school in Nigeria, where he was principal for eight years.

Stephen said: “I am excited to take on my new role at such a well-established and respected college.

Abbey College has a long-standing reputation for delivering premium quality education, helping its students to achieve the very best academic results, through rigorous but informal teaching, small class sizes, frequent testing and expert teachers who put the interests of each of their students at the centre of everything they do.”

UCB RESTAURANTS RECEIVE A MAKEOVER University College Birmingham’s (UCB) award-winning restaurants in Summer Row have been given a cool, modern makeover ready for re-opening in early October.

Both the Atrium and the Brasserie, which are open to the public, have been refurbished with an ‘earthy’ organic feel, including warm sandy-coloured drapes, stylish wallpaper and new mood lighting.

The restaurants, which are staffed by UCB’s hospitality and catering students, have been awarded AA Highly Commended status by AA Hotel Services – the equivalent to two rosettes in the industry.

Competitively priced three-course menus range from the Brasserie’s lunch (£13.95) to the Atrium’s fine dining dishes (£26). To make a reservation, call 0121 604 1010.

JQ BID levy payers are invited to a special dinner at UCB on 23rd January 2014 – just £35 for a three-course dinner including wines. To book a place, email jilly.cosgrove@jqdt.org.

www.abbeybirmingham.co.uk www.ucb.ac.uk

QUARTERLife

AUTUMN 2013

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LEARN

Class in session

NEWS FROM THE JEWELLERY QUARTER’S LEARNING FACILITIES

PERRY BEECHES II CELEBRATES TWO YEARS

LEARNING FROM THE MASTER

The new school term marks the start of Perry Beeches II’s second year in the Jewellery Quarter.

An award-winning designer is helping people discover a talent for jewellery making with a programme of workshops at her Jewellery Quarter studio.

The free school on Newhall Street is part of the Perry Beeches Academy Trust. It currently has 115 Year 7 students, 115 Year 8 students and 90 A-level students in the sixth form. The school aims to grow year-on-year and has the capacity to accommodate 700 pupils in total.

Liam Nolan, chief executive of the Trust, said: “Perry Beeches II is an incredibly successful school and the Jewellery Quarter has played a huge part in our continuing success with its unstinting support.”

Headteacher Jackie Powell said: “We had an amazing first year with all of our students making exceptional progress in their academic studies. We have also welcomed Professor Carl Chinn to ‘Team PB’ as our new A-level history teacher.

“Carl brings with him an inspirational and extensive knowledge of Birmingham and he will be involved in leading local history projects. This is a great opportunity for our students to learn from the very best.”

Victoria Delany is the owner of The Quarterworkshop based in the Spectacle Works on Hylton Street.

Having gained a Masters in goldsmithing, silversmithing, metalwork and jewellery from the Royal College of Art, Victoria set up her business just over 18 months ago. She designs and makes bespoke silver tableware and retail product ranges for organisations such as The Black Country Museum, Dudley, and Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire.

Victoria has also received high-profile commissions, including a piece for Millennium Gallery’s permanent collection in Sheffield and a project with the Duke of Devonshire.

The Quarterworkshop offers a range of short courses to suit all abilities. Participants can opt to make a simple silver ring and bangle, a pair of earrings or learn many different techniques as part of a six-week evening course. Prices start from £55. www.thequarterworkshop.com mail@thequarterworkshop.com

To arrange a visit, call 0121 270 8090.

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QUARTERLife

AUTUMN 2013

ONTHEBEAT WITH SERGEANT MATT MCVEIGH

The Jewellery Quarter Neighbourhood Police team works closely with the local business and resident community to report, tackle and, more importantly, prevent crime. Here, Sergeant McVeigh describes a typical day for his team.

Most of our mornings are spent educating people on how to prevent crime, whether it’s advising businesses and residents on extra security measures or encouraging students to protect their possessions.

Over 90% of burglaries committed in the area are as a result of an unlocked door or window. If we can educate people on simple preventative measures, we can continue to reduce crime statistics.

During the morning and evening rush hour every on-duty officer is out on patrol to be a reassuring presence for commuters and retailers as they open and close for business.

The retail radio, which is used by many shops in the Quarter, is a valuable communication tool. As the station is on Warstone Lane, where most of the jewellery shops are based, we can react to incidents quickly and, in many cases, stop crime being committed.

A perfect example of this is where a man came to the Jewellery Quarter to try and trade stolen jewellery for cash. The quick thinking jeweller alerted us via the radio and the culprit was caught red-handed.

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AUTUMN 2013

However, the Jewellery Quarter isn’t immune to any of the problems you’d expect in a city centre.

As the homeless population continues to increase, moving on aggressive beggars and rough sleepers is an unfortunate part of the job.

We also have to deal with traffic offences as cars speed through the Quarter.

On evenings and weekends, officers liaise with the owners of the bars and restaurants to ensure revellers have an enjoyable night out. While there is rarely any trouble between partygoers, we want to ensure they get home safely.

We regularly patrol the canals and have recently facilitated the repair of lighting along the path off Ludgate Hill, which has helped to reduce the number of robberies and antisocial behaviour incidents.

The Jewellery Quarter is unique in that it still has a police station serving the local community. Being based in the Quarter means crime is relatively low as our presence alone is a deterrent for would-be criminals. We will continue to work with the JQ BID team to ensure the area remains a safe place for all.

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For all the details on what’s on locally visit www.jewelleryquarter.net/whatson

October JQ PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION Until 22nd, Urban Coffee Company

QUARTER LIFESTYLE EVENT

UNITES FOR COFFEE MORNING The Jewellery Quarter community raised more than £7,500 for Macmillan Cancer Support after taking part in the charity’s national coffee morning.

More than 30 businesses organised fundraising events in the workplace or around the Jewellery Quarter, with all the proceeds being presented to Macmillan as a single cheque from the area.

Many companies and organisations, including The Birmingham Assay Office, Barques, Fellows & Sons Auctioneers, and Mitchells & Butlers, baked cakes and sold them to staff, visitors or customers.

Betts Metal Sales and Pomegranate were among the businesses that held a sponsored fancy dress day, while The Big Peg and The Old Fire Station Children’s Nursery organised raffles alongside selling cakes and cups of coffee.

24th, School of Jewellery

Fleurets hosted a paper aeroplane competition outside St Paul’s Church, while students and staff from Abbey College Birmingham and Perry Beeches II also got involved.

A bouquet of flowers from In Bloom and two tickets to the ballet from Simon Harper, a local resident, were donated as prizes. Betts Metal Sales received the flowers for raising £600 at its Mad Hatter tea party and The Big Peg, which raised over £550, won the ballet tickets.

November CHRISTMAS PARADE AND LIGHTS SWITCH ON 9th, Victoria Square, city centre

December 24 CARROTS CHRISTMAS MARKET 12th, St Paul’s Square

The fundraising event was the brainchild of Philip Jackson, managing director of Maguire Jackson estate agents.

Philip said: “There has always been a strong sense of community in the Jewellery Quarter and I am delighted that so many businesses and organisations came together to raise a fantastic amount of money for a very worthy charity.”

NEXT ISSUE HAVE SOME ‘me time’ IN THE JEWELLERY QUARTER

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICES 19th, 1.05pm / 22nd, 4pm St Paul’s Church

January JQ BID LEVY PAYERS’ DINNER 23rd, UCB Summer Row

For some people, a little bit of retail therapy is the best way to de-stress.

But for others it’s a trip to the hair or beauty salon for a pampering session, a workout in the gym, or pain is pleasure in the tattoo studio.

In the next issue of QUARTERlife , we will feature businesses that help people relax and feel better about themselves. Please email laura@barquespr.co.uk to see how you can get involved.