Ask The Experts

lifestyle Ask The Experts

Q: We’ve got a family funeral arranged and there may be people who are abroad who want to watch the funeral- is there any way we can do that?

A: Most funeral chapels and crematoria have the ability to film and live webcast a funeral service. If they haven’t, there are ways around this; we have contacts of people we can use where they can film the funeral service and it can be shared with those who you would like to show it to. Michelle Harvey Life Celebrant

Crayford

Petts Woods

Sevenoaks

Sidcup

Q: I’m thinking about getting a new bed, but how do I know when’s the right time to buy and what should I look for given there’s so much choice?

A: If you’re struggling to sleep it could be your mattress that needs an update. A supportive, comfortable and spacious sleeping arrangement will mean that you’re less likely to be disturbed and wake up - and therefore less likely to wake feeling tired or aching. You should be replacing your mattress every seven years; a seven-year-old mattress has seen 20,000 hours of wear and tear, not to mention all the sweat and dead skin cells we lose. In terms of choosing a new mattress, it’s best to try them out in store before you buy rather than buying online, as you’ll never know what it feels like. And when you’re trying it out, ask yourself if it offers the right level of support in terms of firmness/softness and if it feels comfortable. Size does matter, so aim to invest in the biggest mattress you can and consider investing in quality too. David Cheeseman, The Bed Post

Q: What are the big fashion trends for summer?

A: After a very difficult, dull, sad and stressful year I am happy to see so much colour for the summer to brighten not only our wardrobes but also our minds and hearts. A pop of electric blue teamed with the white super stretch trousers or beautiful floaty silk trousers is a perfect look. There are lots of coral, fushia and lime green in the collection of tops and trousers this year and we also have all these colours in our classic long silk dresses. So whether you choose a bright top, bottoms or both, be sure to brighten 2021 with a beautiful selection of colour! Lisa Clark, Liberty’s Fashion

Q: My mum always insists on keeping chocolate in the fridge, but I’ve heard that it should be kept at room temperature – who’s right?

A: You’ll be pleased to hear you’re right on this. Putting chocolate in the fridge will alter its texture and it won’t release the flavours it has at room temperature. I realise that on hot, sticky days you might be tempted to put it in the fridge, but a cool, dark cupboard is best. You’re aiming for a temperature of around 15°C. If you’ve opened the chocolate, then it’s also best to store it in an air-tight container as it can absorb the odours of other foods around it, thereby affecting its taste. Caroline Wolfe, Plume Desserts