LifeWest9 - Issue 10 July/August 09 by Antoine Gandy

FREE Live well

Issue 10 July / Aug 09

In Vogue

‘The Virgin Gardener’ Laetitia Maklouf An exclusive interview

Hip, Hip Summer!

Capital ideas for having a blast

Travel/No fly zone

Fun, glamorous and quirky escapes Gourmet travel: boltholes for foodies Effortless summer style Little black book for summer brides DELIVERED FREE TO RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES IN AND AROUND W9

Iyengar Yoga Institute Maida Vale

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first class free with this advert Classes take place in light and airy purpose built studios. Lessons are taught safely and expertly by teachers who are all fully trained and certified in Iyengar yoga. This world renowned method develops strength, flexibility, stamina, balance and optimal body alignment.

www.iyi.org.uk 223a Randolph Avenue, Maida Vale London W9 1NL tel: 020 7624 3080

Editor’s Note www.lifewest9.co.uk Editorial & Advertising Editor: Lola Bailey info@lifewest9.co.uk 07988 313 055 Sub-editor: Emma Cooper Interiors editor: Zoe Brewer zoe@lifewest9.co.uk Freelance Journalists Matthew Warren Lisa Brinkworth Design & Production Momentum Design Solutions design@lifewest9.co.uk Print MPC Publications 020 8440 2340 Distribution White Eagle 020 8995 8569 Contact info@lifewest9.co.uk LifeWest9 is a free bi-monthly magazine distributed to residents and businesses in W9. It has a print run of 8,000 copies. Copyright © Lola Bailey 2009 Reproduction of material from this magazine in whole or in part is strictly forbidden without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of content of this magazine at time of going to print, some details may be subject to change. Editorial content does not necessarily reflect the views of this magazine.

This month’s cover Laetitia Maklouf, author of ‘The Virgin Gardener’.

• Issue • Issue 10 10 Jul/Aug Jul/Aug 09 09

ere comes the sun! Go on, celebrate. Word is that Britain is the place to be this summer. It’s all about ‘thriftonomising’, you see – charity begins at home. Travellers who would previously have left Blighty at the drop of a hat for their one and only resort holiday are now waxing lyrically about ‘staycationing’. Totally fabulous news to us here. A great opportunity to hunt out some unique and stunning boltholes and publish them here for you (page 30). This summer, our mantra is, ‘Simple pleasures’. A game of tennis with friends. A cold glass of elderflower lemonade. Lazy days spent by a pool reading the latest Booker listed. Fish suppers. Much of the inspiration for this comes from our beautiful cover star Laetitia Maklouf, whose gorgeous book ‘The Virgin Gardener’ is a testament to the richness and beauty of the simple – and the perfect summer read (see page 15). Therefore, we have given due prominence to good, old-fashioned fun, from dance-a-thon events, to gloriously kitsch pastimes such as Lido swimming and of course the compulsory summer ice-cream indulgences. And if the weather misbehaves, head for the Lexi cinema, (page 5) – which will never disappoint. Happy holidays.

Lola Bailey, Editor

Contents On the cover

Regulars

15 In Vogue ‘The Virgin Gardener’ Laetitia Maklouf

04 10 14 20 32 35 42

23 Hip, Hip Summer! Capital ideas for having a blast 30 Travel/No fly zone Fun, glamorous and quirky escapes

Local life Interiors Lifestyle Worklife Kids Life Food & drink LifeWest9 directory

recycle When you have finished with the magazine please recycle it.

Maida Vale Councillors

The Social Whirl

JUNE 2009 NEWS UPDATE

Events to book now

Proms in the Park: 12 September, Hyde Park. 0845 4015040 | www.bbc.co.uk/proms RHS Flower Show, Tatton Park 22-26 July. Members only 22 July. For more information call 0870 906 3811 Ealing Summer Festival kicks off with its fantastically varied programme of events from 4 July. The popular Ealing Comedy Festival starts on 17 July in Walpole Park www.ealing.gov.uk/ealingsummer Wimbledon 2010 – Request ballot form from 1st August. Send a stamped addressed envelope to AELTC, PO BOX 98, Church Road, Wimbledon SW19 5AE, marked ‘2010 ballot’, no covering letter necessary. Spirit of Christmas tickets go on sale on 3 August. www.spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk

Useful numbers Police – Harrow Road

020 7289 5030

Westminster City Council

020 7641 6000

London Transport Travel Enquiries 020 7222 1234 Congestion Charge in London

0845 900 1234

Car Parks (Freephone)

0800 243 348

Business Rates Query

020 8315 2050

Council Tax Query

0845 302 3400

Local Councillors

020 7641 2322

Advice on Planning

020 7641 2513

Environment Agency

0845 331 3131

Schools Admission Query

020 7641 1816

Emergencies – Water

0845 9200 888

Emergencies – Gas

0800 111 999

Emergencies – Electricity

0800 0563 861

St Mary’s Hospital

020 7886 6666

Mobile Police Station: We are pleased to report that the Met have purchased and are now using a mobile police station in and around our ward. It has already been spotted in Kilburn Park Road. The purchase of the police station was the result of pressure from ourselves and Little Venice councillors, following a consultation with local residents last summer. St. George’s and St. Augustine’s Schools: Works are now underway at both sites – St. Augustine’s to build a sports hall and St. George’s to begin works on the new building. We secured concessions for residents living in Lanark Road, Tollgate Gardens , Dibdin House and Carlton Vale to reduce the impact and inconvenience for them. Do get in touch if there are any problems or issues during the works. Paddington Rec Bowling Green: The bowling green is now open for use and many local residents have already tried it out. The new bowls club is meeting every Tuesday so local residents can come along and try out the sport. It’s great fun – do go if you can! You can also book separately through the Paddington Rec booking line. (www.maidavalebowls.org.uk) Car Club: Two pay-by-phone parking bays are being used for Westminster’s new car club for local residents on a trial basis which began in June. CityWest Chief Executive visit: Last month we took the new Chief Executive of CityWest Homes around Maida Vale’s estates to lobby him on issues and problems raised by local residents. For more local news and information on our regular residents’ surgeries please visit our regularly updated blog, www.maidavaleconservatives.com We are here to help! Please get in touch if there are any issues we might be able to assist you with. Cllrs Alastair Moss, Jan Prendergast and Lee Rowley 020 7625 3805 maidavale@maidavaleconservatives.com Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

If you stroll up Chamberlayne Road in Kensal Rise, one of Vogue’s “hot” streets as listed in their Secret Address Book, you are in for a big surprise. The Lexi, London’s first social enterprise cinema, can be found in an Edwardian building which has previously housed a theatre, a dancehall, a snooker hall and now home to a stylish micro-cinema. Open the door and you enter a world of magic, in large part created by Bruce Munro’s (think V&A, Harvey Nicks window and The Eden project) magnificent auditorium chandelier; well worth a trip in its own right. This cinema donates 100% of its profits to South Africa’s first eco village so you can enjoy fabulous independent films while drinking a glass of wine and feel really good about it.

So, if the intimate and individual with an independent selection of films appeals, come on down to The Lexi – www.thelexicinema.co.uk, 194b Chamberlayne Road, London, NW10 3JU, telephone bookings: 0871 704 2069.

Leverton and Sons Ltd Independent Funeral Directors since 1789 www.levertons.co.uk • info@levertons.co.uk Head Office: Camden Town, 212 Eversholt Street, NW1 1BD. Tel. 020 7387 6075 Muswell Hill 020 8444 5753 Hampstead 020 7586 4221 Golders Green 020 8455 4992 Gospel Oak 020 7485 1969 Kentish Town 020 7485 1266 Camden Town 020 7387 6075 • Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

Your Safer Neighbourhood Police

sponsors this page

By Elizabeth Virgo

lease report crimes such as stolen bikes and cars being broken into. If the police are not told, they can do nothing about it. Remember patrols get stepped up in locations where these incidents are known to occur and that acts as a deterrent. If you have an emergency, then please call 999 as soon as you can. Less urgent matters but which still require the police to turn up can be reported on 0300 123 1212.

All three teams continue to focus on issues to do with youth disorder, as well as street crime and burglary for HR, while motor vehicle crime and poor driver behaviour apply to both LV and MV.

Telephone

Mobile

Little Venice (LV) Lawrence Knight Lawrence.Knight@met.police.uk

020 7321 9822

07920 233949

Adam McGregor Adam.McGregor@met.police.uk

020 8721 2410

07920 233950

Harrow Road (HR) Ashley Crawford Ashley.Crawford@met.police.uk

020 8721 2739

07768 178175

Maida Vale (MV)

Sergeant

Other useful numbers include Westminster Anti Social Behaviour and Community Intelligence line 020 7641 3000 and the Anti Noise Team on 020 7641 2000.

Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 â&#x20AC;˘

LOCAL HISTORY into his father’s recent activities, and would Sir John care to show joy at His Majesty’s happy Restoration with, say, two thousand pounds? Sir John hadn’t really much option. (Mind you, he ‘forgot’ to pay his ‘free and voluntary gift’ for twenty years, until 1681.) Three months ago, after years of research, I discovered why Sir William ‘kild’ that man in Paddington in 1657. Walking home one night, he, with his younger teenage son, were set upon by highwaymen in Edgware Rd. He was a brave man – they stood back-to-back, and drew. They killed one and mortally wounded another: the third decided to attend to things elsewhere. His son however was killed. So sad.

Plus ça change… Hans Norton I had a great day at the National Archives. I found out what Sir William Roberts did in the 1650s. I had first met him in the Churchwardens’ 1657 accounts for St Mary’s, Paddington Green – “Disburst for the mans burriell tht was kild by Sr Wm Roberts 6/8d”. Research showed he was the Lord of the Manor of Willesden (the next parish to Paddington), an MP in the Rump Parliament, and promoted by Cromwell to the “Upper House”, as Lord Roberts, in 1657. So, at the Restoration in 1661, and now demoted back to plain Sir William, he was required by his (new) king to help the police with their enquiries. Before enquiries got up close and personal he, fortunately, died. Charles the Second was ever inventive. He let Sir William’s son, now Sir John, know that recognition of his old, distinguished (apart from some recent, er, lapses) family might be appropriate. While of course in no way connected, His Majesty might see his way to ennobling Sir John, stopping that nasty Enquiry

• Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

Had an Enquiry sat, it might have concentrated on Sir William’s activities in the Rump Parliament. From 1648 he had sat on the Committee for the sale of Bishops’ lands, after their confiscation by Parliament. For his (considerable?) pains, he could retain 3% of any purchase price. At the National Archives, having a hunch, I looked through the Close Rolls. People selling land tried to foolproof their sales by “enrolment” in the Courts. Indentures of Sale were copied, and every few months, these parchments were sewn together in a long strip of some 16 metres – yes, fifty feet – and tightly rolled up. So I unrolled my Close Roll for September 1653 – possibly the first time in three centuries. It is dusty work and, ye gods, exercises the wrists. BUT I FOUND IT. The sale of most of the Bishop of London’s land in the Parish of Paddington. They just happened to abut Sir William’s land at Willesden. Who sold the lands? Why, Sir William. To whom? Why, Sir William. Who set the price? Why, Sir William. We criticise other nations about their corrupt Governments! No wonder Lord John Roberts had to return the land to the Bishop of London at the Restoration. The good Bishop was, in the event, hardly less corrupt, but that is another story.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behind the blue doors? For those in the know The Amadeus Centre is lauded for warm, exciting and very private celebrations. Most clients find out about this out of the ordinary venue by word of mouth and feel as if the place is theirs the moment they pass through those blue doors.

The Amadeus Centre 50 Shirland Road Little Venice London W9 2JA T: 020 7286 1686 info@amadeuscentre.co.uk www.amadeuscentre.co.uk

The character of this unique building, with its striking Victorian interiors, enhances any function, be it a wedding reception, bar mitzvah, Christmas or birthday party. The Upper Hall is a perfect setting in which to entertain your guests as it combines spaciousness with elegance and has many original period features, while The Lower Hall, featuring a fine vaulted ceiling, is a fabulous setting for pre-dinner drinks or as a late night dance area. During weekdays, the venue is popular for rehearsals, auditions, workshops, seminars and conferences. At this charming venue their experienced and friendly team is always available to assist with your ideas, helping you plan your event, large or small. [Please note: venue for hire only]

Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 â&#x20AC;˘

PHILIP BERRYMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

ears shooting the People & Style pages for Vogue created a fantastic opportunity to capture all major fashion, art and society events. From this platform I went on to work for fashion PR companies in addition to working privately for numerous celebrities and individuals. Further commissions led to shoots for clients who appreciated my individual style and approach. Thus I have since shot portraits, weddings, parties and Bar Mitzvahs for a wide range of clients both in the UK and abroad. For many years I was a contributing photographer with Photographic Records and enjoyed the privilege of shooting numerous Royal weddings and other prestigious events, which I still continue to cover now.

My experience allows me to shoot quality interiors, reportage and portraits in all environments under pressure. I am keen to work closely with clients and work towards creating an unforgettable record of the event. I am open to all commissions no matter the scale and have portfolios that will give you an accurate feel for my style of photography.

I am interested in capturing the spirit and energy of an event. My work illustrates my ability to completely immerse myself in the action and create memorable and dynamic images. I offer a choice of albums, presentation options and a dedicated viewing site. I am able to create a product that suits your needs and budget. I will be happy to forward a brochure upon request and visit you with my portfolios

Weddings | Parties | Portraits | Bar/Batmitzvahs

â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

cloth & pin down to avoid losing it and spilling every drink in sight when the wind blows. Use a mis-match variety of wooden dining/folding chairs and tie the look together with a selection of coordinated seat cushions for that perfect magazine styled seating area. Al fresco dining: There’s nothing nicer than eating outside. So once you have your table and chairs, set the scene with some outdoor dining accessories. Melamine plates, cups and cutlery are available in so many designs and colours now, they are often nicer than the real thing! Tie a ribbon around the cutlery, and insert a sprig of something pretty from the garden. Use a selection of different sized glass vases and space along the middle of the table. Fill with freshly picked flowers (or cheat and buy some if your fingers are not that green!).

My interior stylist Expert advice from Zoë Brewer, West London’s premiere Property Stylist

The Great British summer We may not always have the climate for it, but when the sun does shine, there’s nothing to beat the British outdoors in the summer. I grew up as a country girl, and so the old traditions are what makes it for me – newt catching in the stream, picnic blankets laden with yummy food, jumpers for goal posts…ahh. Now a fully signed up member of the urban masses, I still live the dream in my city garden, so here’s a few tips for creating the holiday atmosphere in your own back yard. Who needs the Med? Seating: We don’t all have room for a 3 piece garden suite on our postage stamp patios. So be inventive. Use a trestle table for an outside dining table (this means you can also fold it away when weather is not permitting). Cover with a table 10

Summer styling: I love decorating for summer parties. And for special occasions, you can go to town without breaking the bank. Collect empty jars, put a tea light in each one and hang all around the garden. Fairy lights are a great way to make a feature of an old tree – electric or solar. Create an outside pow wow area by draping and tying sheer fabric in a corner of the garden to create a tent like feel. Fill the space underneath with a selection of large cushions or a hammock. Bunting and butterfly strings can be strung across trees and along walls. For kids parties, you can go to town with this idea and create a fairy wonderland! You can make most of the above yourself, or for a one stop shop, you will find a great selection at Cath Kidston, who has shops in Holland Park and Marylebone or online at www.cathkidston.co.uk. Alternatively contact My Interior Stylist to create the look for you. Finally, add children, a garden sprinkler, Pimms and a copy of Lifewest9! Perfect. For a one to one consultation on revamping your home, email Zoë at zoe@myinteriorstylist.com Zoë Brewer is Creative Director & Owner of My Interior Stylist Ltd, based in Kensal Rise. Please visit the website at www.myinteriorstylist.com for more info or call 07516 762 768 for some friendly advice. Also follow Zoe on twitter http://twitter.com/interiorstylist Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

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â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

Effortless summer style Perfect packing solutions

Safarian and Simon Gorgeous eye-candy from the supremely classy Safarian and Simon. ♥ 62 St John’s Wood High Street, NW8 7SH | 020 7722 1917

Anya Hindmarch The Kaftans, the sandals and those little luxuries every girl should have. From a selection.

♥ www.anyahindmarch.com ♥ Main stockists 157-158 Sloane Street, SW1X 9AB

Luggage

Melissa Odabash Straw Hat, Melissa Odabash. For a dash of cool.

Leather wheelie case, £510. Samsonite Black Label by Viktor & Rolf. ♥ Samsonite Viktor & Rolf ♥ Stockists 020 7734 0878

♥ www.odabash.com

Dior Addict Lip Glow A balm which beautifies and enhances your natural lip colour, with a lasting effect. The result is immediate. Thanks to the “Colour Reviver” technology, Dior Addict Lip Glow reacts to the lips’ moisture levels for lips that appear rejuvenated, fresh, luscious and shiny. Available in one shade, the SPF 10 formula, enriched with wild mango, continuously protects and hydrates. Lips are soft and plumped, day after day. ♥ Stockists 020 7216 0216

Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

IN VOGUE “This book was written for me and for people like me,” says Maklouf. “When I first got into gardening I couldn’t find any guides that hooked me in. I wanted to write a book free from technical jargon, something that could strip away the usual clichés about gardening.”

Laetitia Maklouf A few years ago, a handful of sweet pea seeds transformed self-confessed ‘plant murderer’ Laetitia Maklouf into the author of the garden book of the year – ‘The Virgin Gardener’. She explains to Giulia Tarditi why a life full of plants is the only one that is worth living. “Without throwing out my high heels or trying to turn the pavement into an allotment, I’ve grown the gardens of my dreams. I’ve recreated those banks of scented gladioli in tiered pots on my balcony. My rosy fix is a clandestine teaspoon of sticky rosehip syrup”. So reads an extract from Laetitia Maklouf ’s new book, The Virgin Gardener, an introductory guide to the joys of growing plants that after less than three months in print has already become a highly coveted book for the eternally undecided category of would-be-if-only urban gardeners. It reminds us of what we have forgotten: that gardening is actually a tremendously satisfying pursuit worth having, and secondly- as the improbable matching of leather high heels to rubber boots on the book’s back-cover definitely suggests – it can be seriously girlish too. • Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

The book is essentially a plant ‘cookbook’ of easy and inexpensive projects for ‘virgin gardeners’. It is Maklouf ’s labour of love. Indeed it reads like a passionate love-story, one in which her readers are invited to enjoy with her. I love her take on asparagus (p 120 in the book) “Growing asparagus is, like true love, a long-term project and one that needs a certain amount of commitment. Because of this, if you are ultimately prepared to share it with someone, it’s a good barometer of the extent of your love”. Chapters are beautifully illustrated, with utterly seductive titles such as ‘Decorate, Eat, Drink, Grow, Luxuriate, and The Lust List’. However, it is also highly practical, with information and instruction on almost everything from how to make compost to growing rhubarb for vodka jelly. Maklouf is open about the importance of plants in her life. Following a horticultural course at the Chelsea Physic Garden she became a full-time gardener and soon became instantly and irretrievably hooked on it – “Watching a seed germinate and grow that you have planted yourself is so utterly miraculous… I promise you, I am undone, every time this happens”. Gardening is “like having a mentor: they show you how to live.” I am inclined to agree with her when she says that gardening allows us to rethink our relationship with time. It gets us away from the idea of instant gratification that we are all so well accustomed to. “If you are a hurried or hectic person, plants will possibly treat you,” she says. “You can’t hurry them. They are a work in progress.” As the interview draws to a close, there is a further gem from La Maklouf. “As with human beings, one single plant can hold your interest for a while. You feel attracted to it, you concentrate on it, and you fall in love with it. And then – oh my goodness! (she whispers) You’re just in seventh heaven.” The Virgin Gardener by Laetitia Maklouf; Bloomsbury ISBN 978-0-7475-9398-0 £20 15

What your wedding flowers say about you... Gemma Beasley, owner of “In The Pink Flowers” in Maida Vale shares her tips on personalising your wedding flowers for a truly unique occasion.

I have designed flowers for a great many weddings, from shoestring affairs, to grand occasions. Some parts of the wedding industry would have you believe that your guests will only think your big day a success if you hold a lavish, Posh-n-Becks style affair, replete with vintage champagne and a forty-grand frock. But there is no doubt in my mind which weddings are the best, and it has nothing to do with budget. The best weddings are like the best marriages: a coming together of two distinct individuals, making a whole that is even more exciting and original than its parts. The personalities of both bride and groom should infuse every aspect of your day, from the choice of food to the invitations. The flowers are no exception, and here are five ways you can select flowers for your unique day that are entirely personal to you: Culture - Since the Ancient Greeks first wove garlands to adorn the bride and groom, almost every culture has had its own take on wedding flowers. An Indian bride whose flowers I created recently, mixed vibrant orchids and birds of paradise representing her culture, with cream roses to represent her English bridegroom. Similarly, a Swedish bride wanted thyme woven into her table displays of rununculas. Not only did they smell divine, but according to Swedish tradition, the thyme would protect the wedding party from trolls! Character and Style - We all have our own unique style, and to find it, look at yourself in the mirror or consider how you have furnished your flat. A city-girl might have her heart set on a chic little dome of white roses, whereas a bride in love with all things vintage might choose an elaborate shower-bouquet of orchids and ostrich feathers. I once created flowers for a gothic bride, transforming a draughty old hall into Dracula's Castle with the aid of black calla lilies and blood red roses. Raid your Past - Memories and mementoes are powerful places from which to draw inspiration. A friend of mine chose a bouquet of simple white tulips because she loved them, butasked me to incorporate her mother's vintage brooch into the ribbon binding the stems. Another bride I knew added blue muscari to her cream bouquet, as they were the flowers that had grown in her grandmother's garden. Inspiration from Film, Art and Music - I once made table centres of yellow roses for a bride, who wanted them everywhere because the hero of her favourite novel, Edith Warton's The Age of Innocence, bought them every day for the woman he secretly loved. A lover of Van Gogh might opt for sunflowers, whilst a fan of Monet might love lilies. If All Else Fails - I like to talk to my brides to find out more about them before suggesting flower choices. Inspiration can come from the strangest places, and I often encourage them to make a 'mood board' of cuttings and photos of places and things that they love. Central to one client's board was her hot pink Mini Cooper. It turned out the car was the love of her life (aside from her fiancé, of course!) and so we used hot pink peonies, and didn't look back from there. For your complimentary wedding flowers consultation contact In The Pink Flowers on 020 7286 9598 or by email, gemma@inthepinkflowers.co.uk. ww.inthepinkflowers.co.uk

Little Black Book for summer brides The list  The cake Savoir design Celebrity favourite (Madonna, Claudia Schiffer, Elizabeth Hurley to name but a few) cake designer Eric Lanlard is unrivalled. His bespoke service offers inspirational and uber-stylish cakes. Previous commissions have taken him to Dubai, France, New York and Milan. www.savoirdesign.com

 The gifts Send a thought “Thoughtful gifts – All wrapped up” is the mission of this winsome website.You’ll find gifts for everyone and for every occasion, along with suggested messages. Examples include the Beer Bottle Opener (suggested message “For the Thank You beer I owe you”). www.sendathought.co.uk The Personal Paper Company Get browsing at this exquisite on-line range of personalised stationery. Their memo pads are particularly stylish; unique and very useful gifts. www.thepersonalpaperco.co.uk

 The drinks Wedding trikes The Cocktail Camper is the star of the show; a 1974 VW camper converted into a cocktail bar with its own lighting and PA system, which you can hire for £600 plus expenses on a dry hire. Less expensive is the Pimm’s and ChampagneTrike. www.weddingtrikes.com

 The flowers In the Pink Flowers Local florist Gemma Beasley’s flower store offers stunning floral displays. Contact them for a complimentary consultation. Tel. 020 7286 9598 | www.inthepinkflowers.co.uk

 The wedding list The Vintage Wedding List Give the High Street a break and sign up at the Vintage Wedding List for traditional, unique gifts with real charm ranging from antique kelims to Edwardian water glasses. www.thevintageweddinglist.co.uk • Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

 The stylists

Lucia Silver – of London’s acclaimed “The L Boutique” has launched the extraordinary fashion, styling and beauty destination for brides, State of Grace. At State Of Grace you’ll discover an entirely new concept. For the first time ever, brides can create a completely unique look and style with a head-totoe service that includes three areas of expertise – all under one roof. Bespoke and Made to Measure Design using the UK’s most skilled creative specialists. Personal Styling Advice brought to bear with Lucia’s treasure trove of custom-made accessories including jewellery, hats and hair pieces, shrugs and evening coats, even bespoke shoes and bags. Specialised hair and make-up artists who ensure that your final look is totally polished. The State Of Grace studio in Notting Hill oozes elegance and timeless sophistication. An intimate, sumptuous environment where brides can not only define a complete look that is truly their own but also find perfect outfits for bridesmaids, mother of the bride and even grooms and attendants too. For LifeWest9 readers only: A FREE gift to you of exquisite pearl & crystal earrings hand-made in any colour of your choosing when you visit the State of Grace studio for your bridal appointment. (Normally worth over £100) www.thestateofgrace.com

Shu Jun Healthcare Lola Bailey visits Shu Jun for a massage and finds no mercy at the hands of its experienced practitioner and owner Dr Shu Jun. If your idea of a massage is one that comes with Jo Malone candles, limestone tiles and the sounds of the sea wafting from a top-notch sound system, visiting Shu Jun’s Chinese Medicine centre will come as a shock. Owner and Chinese Medicine practitioner Dr Shu Jun is as no-nonsense in approach as the clinic from which she operates. Set in an unprepossessing part of the Vale, space, though clean and bright is a challenge – but clearly big enough to serve its aims. And there lies the ‘rub’ of it. Dr Shu Jun is not interested in providing chill-out back massages to her clients. The mission here is to treat, by giving clients a thorough body workout in which Chinese herbs play a starring role.You will experience a massage like no other. A very large, heated ball of muslin, packed with a concoction of pungent herbs is used to ‘penetrate’ through

to the deep tissues by a very particular rubbing and kneading movement all over the body. The effect is a massage so firm it almost hurts and in my case pleas for “a little less pressure if you don’t mind” were laughingly dismissed and met with slightly askance looks, as she explained the importance of her techniques in aiding lymphatic drainage and unlocking ‘all your tension’. Somewhat inexplicably, some 15 minutes into the hour or so long massage, I found myself both converted over to the technique and wondering why I had never experienced this before. I felt considerably less tired and more energized at the end of the process. In fact. I felt fantastic. Highly recommended. LB Shu Jun Healthcare, 37 Chippenham Road, Maida Vale, London W9 2AH. 020 7286 1442. www.shujun.co.uk Our sessions are short (only 30 minutes), intense, and focused. Due to the sheer anaerobic nature of Vibration Training all training programmes will effectively tone and shape you while also kick-starting your metabolism – maximising your calorific expenditure! This way your body is burning calories even when you’re NOT training! Other specific lifestyle benefits include improved: • Posture/Range of Motion • Balance/Coordination • Strength/Flexibility • Circulation/Lymphatic drainage • Accelerated Weight Loss • Decrease in Cortisol levels (stress hormones)

Whole Body Vibration (WBV) Training now available at The Fitness Cafe “No pain… just gain… RESULTS!!” The Fitness Cafe is a unique and friendly personal training studio that now offers Power Plate training in the heart of St John’s Wood.Already a huge hit with celebs including Madonna, Elle MacPherson to name a few, Power Plate training can effectively accelerate weight loss, improve your sporting performance, and enhance fitness and wellness.

• Helps to actively break down fatty cells/tissues – breaks down cellulite! • Bone Mineral Density (Osteoporosis) The Fitness Cafe also provides various group classes including Water Rowing, Pilates, NIA (new therapeutic low impact dance work-out), Street Bollywood Dance, Cardio Kick Box as well as personal training. Please call or email us at info@thefitnesscafe.co.uk to book in for your free 30 minute consultation. 97 Boundary Road, St John’s Wood, London NW8 0RG 020 7372 4913 | www.thefitnesscafe.co.uk

Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

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WORKLIFE

Style and counsel

Information and inspiration for the working woman

Got a big decision to make? 10-10-10 it.

Helpdesk The book to read this summer is John Lees’ ‘How to Get a Job You’ll Love – a practical guide to unlocking your talents and finding your ideal career’, 5th edition/revised, October 2008, McGraw-Hill, £12.99. Lees’ 10 Point Checklist for taking control of your career in difficult times: 1. Look at what’s working, rather than what isn’t. Which parts of your job are still effective even in difficult times? 2. Find leverage. Concentrate your efforts on projects which are seen to be fireproof, or ways of protecting your income stream.

Matthew Warren is a journalist based in Maida Vale who writes about work and management. Are you agonising over an important decision? Tossing and turning over whether to leave your job to start your own business, or whether it’s worth disciplining a lazy team worker? Well, toss and turn no more and say hello to 1010-10, an approach to decision making pioneered by Suzy Welch, former editor of the Harvard Business Review. 10-10-10 has three stages. First, frame up your question clearly and then think about what the consequences of each possible outcome will be in ten minutes, then ten months and then ten years. Why the three tens? It’s too easy to focus on shortterm consequences rather than thinking through the medium and long-term as well. Some decisions seem easy only because they will get us out of a particular situation or make someone else happy right now. Using the ten month and ten year framework helps to crystallize our thinking. Be honest with the options and write them down. Finally, analyse the outcomes you’ve identified to understand which of the options makes most sense for your life. Welch claims the approach works just as well for other life decisions and even claims it helped her know she had to end her marriage. Try it out and good luck. 20

3. Find a fast-track mentor – an informal arrangement with someone more senior than you who can help you decode your organisation while it’s going through tough times. 4. Don’t ask for a pay rise just because everyone else is reacting to rising costs. Demonstrate your value – not your cost. 5. Go way, way beyond your job description in value-adding ways. Career progression, ultimately, is not a question of what you do, but how far you are seen to be doing the things that matter. 6. At the same time, work smarter not harder on tasks which your organisation recognises as things that make a difference. 7. Stay on winning teams. This is the time to negotiate a move away from a dead-end role, or a part of the organisation which is seen as under-performing or peripheral. 8. Stay in touch with changes in your sector, and don’t stop networking – both for industry knowledge and for insider tips on the hidden job market. 9. Don’t adopt cynicism of the marketplace. Not all organisations and markets are in decline – don’t miss opportunities by seeing your glass as constantly half-empty – adopt a glass half-full mentality. 10. Stock your lifeboat before jumping ship: understand what you are really looking for rather than passively reacting to advertised or headhunted opportunities. Well-informed job seekers find great jobs in tough times.

Little Black Book Thinking of yourself as a brand will give you a competitive edge in your job search and in the workplace. Tessa Hood runs an excellent Virtual Personal Branding Program with prices from £200/hour. For details visit www.changinggear.net | Tel 07774 189913 Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

WORKLIFE

Dresses that work for work Clare Rous and Kara Iland

he current mood for strong simple silhouettes mean that dresses which really ‘work for work’ are also perfectly on trend. Modern clean lines in sophisticated fabrics look sharp and professional, whilst this season’s strong shoulder also tells the world you mean business. Karen Walker’s latest collection is a city girl’s dream. The Prestige dress in navy shimmer (£405) is a classic investment piece to take you effortlessly from the boardroom out to a client event. Whilst the Laurel cap sleeve dress in charcoal (£385) can be worn on its own or layered under blouses and cashmere knits on colder days. Keep to one exquisitely simple accessory like Denise Manning’s Vintage Flower Cuff (£325) or keep time with Bex Rox’s clock and ruby charm necklace (£230). Kara and Clare are founders of Rous Iland – for personal consultations contact them at their showroom in Mayfair on 0845 003 8945.All items shown are available from www.rousiland.com.

Health and wealth Health and wealth are inextricably linked, so in each issue we give you our best tips for looking after your health while you are at your desk.

Tip n°7: watch your back. Lower Back Pain? New NICE guidelines say people who’ve had lower back pain for more than six weeks should be offered one of the following according to their preference:  A course of acupuncture  A course of manual therapy  An exercise programme. Speak to your GP or visit www.nice.org.uk May 2009 Clinical Guideline Lower Back Pain • Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

How to… boost your confidence Kathleen Sullivan What is it about some people who ooze confidence when they walk into a room? First, the basics. These five techniques, with the right level of commitment, will get you feeling and appearing more confident, persuasive and impressive. 1. Eye contact – It’s easy to engage your listener by establishing good eye contact. Keep it comfortable for the other person by having a natural, relaxed gaze. Staring and raised eyebrows signal shock and surprise. 2. Posture – Keep it open and relaxed. Drop your shoulders, hold your back and neck upright with feet firmly planted on the ground. Hands can rest on the table, in your lap or by your side. Remember to b-r-e-a-t-h-e. 3. Facial expressions – No more pursing or biting your lips. Make a habit of relaxing your facial muscles so you can break into a gentle smile. Smile with your mouth and your eyes – it’s much more genuine.

4.Voice – A recent study found that a lower voice is associated with greater confidence. 5.Body language – Avoid clutching your thumbs, sitting on your hands, folding your arms or locking your fingers – these can signal fear, insecurity and defensiveness. When your gestures are animated and you express yourself with open, relaxed hands that move in line with what you’re saying you look and feel more confident. Practise in front of a mirror and watch your confidence soar. Kathleen Sullivan specialises in training and 1:1 coaching for career-minded professionals who want to put their best foot forward and stay one step ahead of the competition. She also runs monthly evening workshops on Confident Communication in Central London. Contact kath@kscoaching.co.uk for details. www.kscoaching.co.uk Tel. 020 7289 5674 | 07980 899 586

Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

Hip, Hip Summer! Capital ideas for having a blast Go to a festival Dance Al Fresco Strictly ballroom-dance to your heart’s content at this fun event. The dancing takes place from 2pm to 6pm, with lessons at 1pm. This summer’s dates are: Broadwalk Ballroom – Saturdays July 11th and August 8th, and Tango Al Fresco – Saturdays July 12th and August 9th. There is a requested charitable donation of £10 per person. All proceeds go to the Royal Parks Foundation for tree planting in Regents Park. Regent’s Park, NW1. Tube: Regent’s Park www.dancealfresco.org

Notting Hill Carnival The capital’s most flamboyant carnival takes over Notting Hill (and most of West London) for two days. Expect food in abundance, enormous floats, great music and dancing. August 30-31. Tube: Bayswater/Notting Hill/Westbourne Park. www.nottinghillcarnival.biz | Tel. 020 7727 0072

Try out a Lido – they’re back in fashion Parliament Hill Lido A firm favourite, this delightfully retro Lido is sometimes called “The Hampstead Heath Lido”. 200 by 90 feet, 2ft by 6 inches to 9ft by 6 inches deep, it is set within a 2.5-acre site on the edge of Hampstead Heath.There is a diving stage, chutes and a café, with substantial areas set aside for ‘sunbathing and spectators’. Open May-Sept.

Parliament Hill Fields, Gordon House Road, NW5 2LT. Rail: Gospel Oak. Tel. 020 7485 3873

Get into cricket The Ashes – in particular. Andrew Strauss will lead England to take on the Aussies this summer. They will be at Lord’s from July 16-20 before heading off to the Oval. Culture by Osmosis Watch This Space This is the National Theatre’s annual festival of outdoor theatre, music and various performances. Look out • Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

for the International Theatre Square 2 productions, particularly ‘Macbeth: Who is that bloodied man?’ (23 July to 7 August), with its armies on motorbikes and witches on stilts, plus a spectacular burning castle. The Green Room, (free entry) welcomes back its Bring&Share resident DJs. Arrive armed with your favourite records and CDs to be included in the set. (Fridays and Saturdays, to 1pm) to September 2009. Theatre Square, South Bank, SE1. Tube: Waterloo/ Embankment. www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/wts

Somerset House Summer Series The annual music event is held in the courtyard of Somerset House (“London’s most picturesque live music venue”– New Statesman) from July 9 – July 18. This year’s line up includes Grace Jones, Lily Allen, The Ting Tings and The Enemy. Somerset House will also play host to outdoor movie screenings from audience friendly classics to new blockbusters. Tube: Charring Cross www.somersethouse.org.uk/music | Tel. 020 7845 4600

The Scoop at More London The vibrant Southbank amphitheatre will be hosting a feast of free cultural events, from film screenings to plays, workshops and concerts. Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday lunchtime and evening throughout July you will be able to enjoy the music as part of the More London Free Festival – no need to book, just turn up(12.30-2pm; 6.30-9.30pm). www.morelondon.com/thescoop

Go to an ice-cream parlour Marine Ices Celebrate summer the old-fashioned way – with ice cream, and lots of it. At Marine Ices you’ll find creations such as the Sundae Vesuvius, a – get this – ‘blend of vanilla, chocolate and marsala ice cream with crushed meringue, cherries and sponge, soaked in Marsala wine with a double portion of cream’. Ditch the diet. Marine Ices, Haverstock Hill, NW3 2BL.Tube: Chalk Farm www.marineices.co.uk | Tel. 020 7482 9003

Tony’s Top Tips

Tony Pilates

™

Studio@Esporta

Leave your personal life outside the studio. Don’t let the outside world sabotage your session. In order for you to be truly flexible you need to think elasticity, take the tension out of your system. Tense Mind ~ Tense Body Quit eating wheat, you have 28 feet of human gut. If it is inflamed you can forget about core stability. No amount of Pilates Breathing is going to pull that in. Proprioception is in your joints, think joints not muscles ~ Only dead fish go downstream. In order for you to have a stable pelvis you need to have a mobile hip: PELVIC STABILITY HIP MOBILITY KNEE STABILITY ANKLE MOBILITY

Personalised pilates online www.tonypilates.com

For enquiries or to make an appointment call

020 7644 2407

The Dental Practice Dr Eli Baran is delighted to be able to offer the following dental services in-house. • Same-day crowns/inlays and veneers • Invisible (invisalign®) braces – and all other orthodontic treatment styles • Implants and implant-retained dentures • Resident gum disease expert • Resident root canal expert • Facial rejuvenation and fillers • Hygienist service • All general dental treatments

Call Carole on 020 7328 1200 / 020 7625 9587 ebaran@blueyonder.co.uk www.ebarandental.co.uk The Dental Practice, 102 Boundary Rd, St John’s Wood, NW8 ORH

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We will not need to refer you away for your treatment needs. You can relax in our hands, knowing that every member of the team is linked, takes a personal interest in you and liaises within the Practice to give you the best, most personal and comprehensive treatment. Children, nervous patients, new patients all welcome.

Safarian & Simon O P T I C I A N S

Optometrists and Contact Lens Practitioners

62 St. John’s Wood High Street, NW8 7SH Tel: 020 7722 1917 info@safarianandsimon.co.uk Monday – Saturday 10-6pm Wednesday 10-7pm

Intelligent skincare Summer kissed

Warm and sunny days are finally here as we look forward to time spent outdoors, al fresco lunches, playing sports, fun with the children. With this of course is the need to protect our skin, and achieve that radiant and summer kissed look, naturally. Read on. Skin preparation – for smooth looking skin Skin brushing: Use a natural bristle brush, apply long brisk movements all over the body starting from the feet towards the heart and going back down the arms. Do this before a bath/shower, for three minutes daily and you will notice a significant difference in the appearance of your skin. Exfoliation: Buy a delicious body scrub, or better still make your own: mix 1 part sugar to 3 or 4 parts of sunflower oil and massage your body with the scrub when in the shower. Hydration: Apply a generous amount of body lotion daily. For a more intense hydration, add a few drops of good quality pre-blended aromatherapy oil into the lotion. Fake It Getting the correct fake tan for your skin type can be a bit hit and miss. I have very pale skin so most fake tans do look “fake” on me. Therefore, in the early stages of summer when my skin is alabaster white, I mix a little non-perfumed moisturiser with my fake tan so I just have a glow and then build it up from there. My favourite is “St Tropez Every Day.” Sun Protection Factor (SPF) A few points to bear in mind when purchasing sunscreen. •An SPF is the measurement of the effectiveness of sunscreen, however, many sunscreens do not • Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

block out UVA as effectively as they do UVB. •The higher the SPF the more protection a sunscreen offers against UV – B which causes sunburn. •Invisible damage and aging to the skin’s deepest layers is also caused by Ultraviolet – A. This may appear undetected for many years as there is no pain or reddening. •Some sunscreens labelled “broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection” do not provide good protection against UVA rays. The best UVA protection is provided by products that contain zinc oxide. Titanium dioxide gives good protection but doesn’t cover the entire UVA spectrum. Low maintenance fabulousness with cosmetics ‘au naturel’ Eyelash tints: Are all vegetable based and can last between 3 to 5 weeks. Pedicures: There’s nothing worse than the sight of rough, hardened skin on the heels. Very few people have pretty toe nails, so a flattering nail colour that suits your skin tone (so many people choose nail colours that drain the life out of them) can really give your tootsies a lift. Mineral make-up: A completely natural look, just brush on and glow! This summer Yvonne Martin recommends •Sun City 30 SPF Emulsion by Dr Sebagh. The latest breakthrough; 100% mineral filters to deliver invisible high level UVA, UVB, Infra-red and hyper -pigmentation protection. There are no chemical filters such as avobenzone or oxybenzone for those who are concerned with allergic reactions. •Tomato Sun Cream 16 SPF – Eminence Organics. Contains zinc oxide, tomatoes and aloe vera. •Sun Defense Mineral Makeup SPF 30 – Eminence Organics. Water resistant and loaded with vitamins and zinc oxide. A loose powder in a brush form with six shades to choose from. For a free* consultation with the Yvonne Martin Team Please call 0207 266 2127 *Conditions apply

Fancy a gym body without the gym? Try Movers & Shapers this Summer. We use Power Plate, the celebrity secret to toning up and losing weight in half the time. It takes just two 30 minute sessions per week, always with a personal instructor, at a time that suits you. No contract. No joining fees. No stress.

TO ENJOY A FREE TRIAL SESSION & QUALIFY FOR OUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEE* CALL US TODAY ON: 020 7372 4222 - 148 West End Lane, West Hampstead, NW6 1SD 020 8444 2900 - 148 Fortis Green Road, Muswell Hill, N10 3DU www.moversandshapers.net

branches throughout London * Terms and conditions apply

Movers and Shapers: Fancy a gym body without the gym? Step up to the plate at Movers and Shapers where you’ll find a clean, modern, space on two floors with the latest high tech equipment to get you looking beautifully toned and fighting fit for the summer. The overwhelming majority of clients here are female (75%), who come in with specific requirements or targets to achieve. For some it is to have an exercise programme that maximises effectiveness whilst minimising time, for others it is the simple goal of weight loss in advance of a particular event (two to three 30 minute sessions per week are recommended). Sessions are supervised and are for no more than five clients. (The supervision aspect is important for Health and Safety reasons, and stands in contrast to ‘memberships’ based on self-supervision). All clients receive an initial Health Assessment in a ‘fitbug’ kiosk which details key body stats: percentage fat, BMI, blood pressure etc Your instructor links this to a programme of ‘walking steps per day’ calculated by a fitbug monitor to provide a daily or weekly combined training programme.

• Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

There are three main combined offerings at Movers and Shapers: Power Plate machines – the celebrity ‘secret’ to toning up and losing weight in a very short space of time (just ask Elle ‘the body’ Macpherson), the fitbug exercise monitoring (ie walking steps per day – off site) and nutrition support through the fitbug website. For this, clients enter their daily food intake, referenced by detailed nutritional content information to estimate by extrapolation their weekly nutrition levels. The great news is that there is no joining fee or minimum contract period unlike with gym memberships. Prices start at £195 for 12 sessions (10 on the Power Plate and 2 consultations at the start and finish of the programme). You can find your local branch at: 148 West End Lane, West Hampstead NW6 1SD Tel. 020 7372 4222

Travel/No Fly Zone Fun, glamorous and quirky escapes in Britain

Travellers who once bounced out of Blighty at the drop of a hat are now eschewing their one and only resort holiday plans for La Dolce Vita in Great Britain. Unique Home Stays Set up in 2001 by Sarah Stanley, UHS are passionate about providing guests with perfect holiday cottages. Their luxury breaks include luxury holiday homes with pools, exclusive use of castles in Scotland and contemporary luxury beach houses both in the UK and Europe. www.uniquehomestays.com Beach Retreats At Beach Retreats you’ll find a collection of seaside houses in Cornwall. Camel Quarry House even has a hot tub, decked terrace and outdoor fireplace. www.beachretreats.co.uk Fortingall “At Fortingall I found, to my intense delight, a real Country hotel”. SPBMais, 1932 Broadcaster and Journalist. Fortingall nestles in the middle of the historic Arts and Crafts village of Fortingall, in Perthshire. Guests can choose from the action packed activity packages, or explore one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland at their leisure. www.fortingall.com | 01887830 367 The Safari At Livingstone Safari Lodge in Kent, guests can overnight in private luxury tents set up on stilts. Each accommodation has its own veranda, 30

overlooking a watering hole where the wildebeests, zebra and ostrich will come to graze. In the evening, a six course authentic dinner is served in the communal “lapa”. www.totallywild.net | 01303 234190 Cliveden The original site dates back to 1066 and over time Cliveden has opened its doors to everyone including Winston Churchill, President Roosevelt and Charlie Chaplin. It must be said that late night nude bathing is not the only activity available – other attractions include the Boating House – where guests can choose from a restored flotilla of vintage launches and visit nearby sites including Windsor, Marlow and Henley. www.clivedenhouse.co.uk | 01628 668561 Chewton Glen Chewton Glen is the perfect base for families looking for a child-friendly break whilst still having fun themselves. Close to the New Forest, and just a short walk from the sea, the location provides a wonderful backdrop for family fun days. There are beaches, forest walks, pony treks and cycling adventures to be enjoyed. Be enchanted by the Lilliput-sized mallets on the croquet lawn, tiny racquets by the tennis courts, short golf clubs on the putting green and miniature bicycles in the cycle racks. Prices from £511 per family per night based on two adults and one or two children sharing. www.chewtonglen.com | 01425 275341 Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

Gourmet Travel The Hand and Flowers ‘Understated, quirky luxury’ Set in the beautiful Georgian town of Marlow this acclaimed pub is run by husband-and-wife team Tom and Beth Kerridge. Food is top-notch; menu items include Honey roast Suffolk Chicken with Asparagus, potato gnocchi and morel sauce, and warm pistachio sponge cake with melon sorbet and marzipan. Accommodation in the four cottages (Angus, Dexter, Charolais and Limousin suites) close to the pub offers ultra-modern conveniences including flat screen DVD/TV, and espresso machines. The river is close by, handy for taking a short boat trip to Henley. Cliveden is also close by. Suites from £140 per night; dinner from £40 per head. www.thehandandflowers.co.uk | 01628 482277 Restaurant Sat Bains “If you have to cross a stormy ocean or climb a windswept mountain press on, for it is well worth the effort”. 2009, AA Restaurant Guide. Celebrity chef Sat Bains’ restaurant is close to the centre of Nottingham, set in converted farm buildings. The restaurant offers Michelin standard fare such as Chicken liver parfait with tea jelly, topped with popcorn, and Chocolate topped with sea salt and violets. There is also a seven course tasting menu priced at £75 per person (minimum of four guests). Accommodation is a handful (7) of elegant rooms with antique beds and furniture. Nearby are Nottingham Castle and the historic Lace Market area. Rooms from £90 per night, dinner from £65 per head. www.restaurantsatbains.com | 01159 866566 The Stagg Inn The Stagg is situated in Titley, Herefordshire, and was the first pub to be awarded a Michelin star in 2001. The owner/chef is Steve Reynolds, whose mission is to showcase local produce. Menu items include Pigeon breast on herb risotto, Fillet of Herefordshire beef with potato rosti, red wine sauce and caramelised shallots and Madgett’s Farm duck breast with spiced rhubarb and potato fondant. • Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

images © The Hand and Flowers

Boltholes for foodies: restaurants with rooms

There are three rooms, which start from £85 per room per night. The Vicarage rooms are from £100 per night. Dinner is from £40 per person. www.thestagg.co.uk | 01544 230221 Little Barwick House If you find yourself in the delightful Somerset countryside, around the Yeovil area, head for Tim and Emma Ford’s beautifully restored Georgian dower house. The West Country produce served up in their kitchens includes Saddle of wild roe deer with a crispy confit of pork belly, beetroot puree and rosti potato. Highly recommended is the Terrine of chocolate with rhubarb compote and star anise ice cream.There is even a credit crunch dinner, from Tuesday to Thursday, for £29.95 for a set price 3 course dinner, inclusive of coffee and canapés. There are a handful of ensuite rooms, which are elegantly furnished. If you are staying a while, the Dorset coastline is beautiful and there is a wealth of local historic houses and gardens, such as Stourhead and Forde Abbey. Rooms: B&B from £69 per person per night or £100 with dinner included. www.littlebarwick.co.uk | 01935 423902 31

The coolest things to do with kids Festivals Latitude Funky families pick up a festival and Latitude is the staple event on the summer festival calendar. Latitude takes children seriously, with plenty to entertain little ones. Coloured sheep, circus fun, pizza making, nature rambles... it’s all there. ► Latitude, Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk 16-19 July | under 12s free | www.latitudefestival.co.uk More festival information go to www.efestivals.co.uk Bucket and Spade Whitstable Take them to wonderful Whitstable, a fun coastal town 60 miles from London (80 minutes by train from Victoria). Frank’s boutique will enchant little ones whilst grown ups too are entertained: in recent years Whitstable’s contemporary art scene and trendy restaurants have been holding much attention. ► www.BabyGoes2.com offers a three night package

at the chic and contemporary Hoy Cottage, Whitstable, from £595. ► Bexhill is also good for a classic seaside holiday, ideal for children under 10 | www.discoverbexhill.com The Good Life Parkside Farm, Middlesex At Parkside Farm little ones can pluck the juiciest fruits straight off the stem. Make sure they take home extra punnets! ► Parkside Farm, Middlesex www.parksidefarmpyo.co.uk | 020 8367 2035 Life is an adventure Bewilderwood, Norwich Treehouses, zipwires, jungle bridges, marsh walls and yummy food are just some of the treats your whole family can look forward to in this “curious Treehouse Adventure” set in 50 acres of woodland near the Norfolk Broads. ► www.bewilderwood.co.uk

Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

This is Summer



Patient Centred Dentistry Dr Stanley Freedman Does the thought of going to the dentist fill you with fear? Do you worry about the cost? If so, the Shirland Dental Practice may be the place for you. Whatever your problem, following a detailed consultation we will develop, in partnership with you, a fully-costed treatment plan, prioritised according to your wishes. There is a full range of treatments, a 24h emergency service, and a new late evening surgery.

To find out more, call us! The Shirland Dental Practice                              



Holistic@Home Ms Kelly Daines MIHT, FHST 077 4778 4678 • kellydaines@hotmail.com

142 Shirland Road, Maida Vale, W9 2BT Tel: 020 7289 3120

The KIDSEN Sale Save up to 25%

No one size fits all, but through discussion and observation I shall create a treatment geared to your individual needs and wishes, combining various techniques ranging from: • Classic European massage • Thai Body/Energy work • • Deep/Sports bodywork • Reiki • Self-Healing • Relaxation • • Reflexology • Detox Wraps • And many more…

Treatments: 1 hour to 3 hours, £50 per hour All treatments can be performed in your home/hotel. Alternatively, a treatment space is available in St Johns Wood, NW8.

Children’s Clothes Sale Now On

For great deals on Scandinavian Brands like Mini-A-Ture, Lille Barn, Holly, Ida T, Ej Sikke Lej and much more - just bring this leaflet to our Kensal Rise Store 111 Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, NW10 3NS Discounts on selected items. Offer ends August 22nd 2009

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Food notes Cooler with attitude

A multi award-winning chopping board categorization system comprising a stylish storage case and colour coded chopping boards. Each board has its own illustrated tabs staggered for visual ease. £42

This Burgon and Ball bucket is perfect for summer; use it for cooling drinks or carrying a picnic. It collapses down completely, is waterproof, holds 11 litres and comes in a variety of colours. £9.95 www.burgonandball.com

BUY THESE

Chopping board

Compact Herb Chopper £18.00 Both available from www. josephjoseph. com

Scents of summer: Rose box The perfect gift for any green-fingered host. With its heavenly scented shrub rose, ready to plant, and accompanying bottle of rose water and a jar of rose petal jam, your host will beg you to come back. The Gluttonous Gardener: www.glut.co.uk

Instant gourmet Strawberries in Muscat. To a punnet of strawberries (halved), add a mix of about 100ml of Muscat de Beaumes de Venise, the juice and zest of a small orange and a tablespoon of caster sugar. Leave to marinate for around 4 hours. Serve with a sprig of mint, fresh cream or meringues.

Webwatch

Urban Picnics

Mich Turner’s Little Venice Cake Company specialises in ‘completely bespoke, contemporary and classic’ couture cakes. Clients include the Queen, Madonna and Gordon Ramsay. www.lvcc.co.uk

If you are anywhere near Ludgate Circus pop into Up Box, it offers ready packed lunchboxes, each with a different global influence. 7, Ludgate Cirucs, EC4M 7LF www.up-box.co.uk

• Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

Simple pleasures I don’t think there is anything more satisfying than opening a fabulous bottle of wine and spending your summer evening snacking on gourmet breads, tapas style. In fact, I think the things that work best are often the simplest foods done well. True to this is the new wine licence that we have just acquired at Raoul’s Deli. This exciting news means that we can now offer customers a choice of superb Italian wines which we are sourcing from Banfi wines – an expert producer of Tuscan wine. Now Raoul’s Deli is truly a one stop shop for all things gourmet! Those after a meal out will also be happy to know that our exclusive wine list is also available at Raoul’s Café. We are now receiving a lot of picnic hamper orders and guests are now able to choose a wine to complement their summer picnic. Another simple pleasure at Raoul’s is our Princi bread – a really fantastic new addition for summer. Often called “the Armani of bread”, Princi is renowned in Italy for its exquisite baked goods and delicious sweet and savoury items. Save yourself a trip to Milan and come to Raoul’s Deli to try our new Italian range! With stunning olive studded bread sticks, sweet milk breads and exquisitely fresh rolls Princi breads are the perfect indulgence to enjoy at home or even to give as gifts. Bread and wine – the ingredients for a perfect summer! 8-10 Clifton Road, London W9 1SS Tel. 020 7289 6649 Mon-Sat 8am-8pm, Sun & Bank Holidays 9am-7pm 100-00

Every morning we raise before the sun and begin preparing for the day ahead. We dress in our uniforms, turn on the lights and the music, dress the tables, purify the air … In the kitchen, fresh crispy vegetables arrive. Fish, meat, eggs and bread are selected and coffee is being brewed … Ovens, stoves and grills are pumping hot and the doors can now be wide open. Tomorrow, we’ll do it all over again

POEM restaurant

inspired by the thought that you’ll be here.

Mediterranean cuisine

bar & grill

BREAKFAST . 94 Boundary Rd (off Abbey Rd) St Johns Wood, London NW8 0RH www.poembarandgrill.co.uk

LUNCH

DINNER

contact 020 7372 3897 info@poembarandgrill.co.uk

Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

Raoul’s Café 13 Clifton Road, London W9 1SZ Mon-Sun 8.30am-11pm 020 7289 7313

Raoul’s Website: www.raoulsgourmet.com – E-mail: headoffice@raoulsgourmet.com

Raoul’s Deli 8-10 Clifton Road, London W9 1SS Mon-Fri 7.30am-8.30pm Sat 8am-8pm, Sun 8.30am-7pm 020 7289 6649 Outside catering available

EATING OUT

Pomelo London’s ‘coolest street’, Chamberlayne Road in NW10, just got cooler, with the recent arrival of the neighborhood’s first Chinese and Malaysian restaurant Pomelo. Owner Sonia Ham, who hails from Malaysia herself, could not have sited her ambitious first venture in a more trendy location. Pomelo is an informal sort of place, extremely popular with locals – when we arrived the restaurant was packed. Feeling broke but want to impress? Pomelo is for you.The aim is to provide ‘good quality fresh food at reasonable prices’. Indeed the prices are startlingly low, (no main course is priced over £16) and the portions extremely generous.This is an offering that is pitched perfectly for the times and if the chat is to be believed regarding the economy, for many years to come. Thumb through the copious pages of the magazinelike menu and you will find a plethora of dishes both Chinese and Malaysian.This we found a challenge – far too much choice – so we asked for recommendations. Recommendations were duly and enthusiastically given. First to arrive was the Chicken satay, undoubtedly the star of the show; think chunks of succulent chicken with spices of lemongrass, turmeric and cumin, skewered and grilled, served with cucumber and a spicy peanut sauce. Deeply moreish.The Golden squid was delicious too; cooked perfectly with a dark golden basting of curry paste and dried shrimp. Delicious.The soft shell crab with salt, pepper and chili was beautifully seasoned with just the right balance of contrasting textures. For main courses, it was back to Malaysia again. Mango chicken with fried rice for my partner, whilst I opted for the Assam fish.The chicken was ‘succulent’ and ‘fresh tasting’, the rice too was good – though the portion unnecessarily large.The Assam fish, on the bone, packed a punch with its tamarind and chili sauce. Stirfried Pak choi with garlic and oyster sauce was a good accompaniment. Whilst Chinese restaurants are two a penny very little is known in the UK about Malaysian cuisine. At Pomelo, you can find out more; the menu certainly rewards the

adventurous. Malaysian cuisine strikes a very masculine pose, with strong flavours, pungent and vibrant aromas. Service at Pomelo is pleasant and efficient. Best of all however is the fact that it is possible to eat out on genuinely good food for not very much at all. Pomelo is currently unlicensed, however you can bring your own with no corkage. So fellow credit crunchers can splash out on a good bottle of Riesling (there is an off-licence a few shops down) without maxing out on the credit card. LB Dinner for two, about £25 Pomelo, 55 Chamberlayne Road London, NW10 3ND. Tel. 020 8968 8777. Open 12-3, 6-11pm. Eat in, take out and delivery service, and 20% discount for party bookings of 6 and over. Children are welcome. Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

FOOD AND DRINK

A simple life is a good life As a consumerist society we have been preoccupied with the thought of acquiring more and more material possessions, in order to improve the quality of our lives.This thought may have been motivated by many factors such as improving our personal satisfaction, seeking the approval of others; compensating for our weaknesses, whatever the reason maybe, extravagance is often gaudy. We overfill our homes and our lives with so much clutter, that it robs us of our ability to appreciate true beauty. News of the downturn of the economy and the advent of the recession, which some economists predicted to be the worst since 1930, has made us stop and think: Does this acquisition of more material possessions really makes us happier human beings? Sure it may add feelings of excitement, but once that wears off, where do we go from there? I think that there has been a growing shift towards more authentic experiences for people seeing a positive side to the recession. I believe it is time for us to go back to basics in everything we do. Enjoying the simpler pleasures in life. When was the last time you watched a beautiful sunrise or sunset? It is the most soul invigorating experience, other than it being extremely relaxing. Going for walks in a green wooded area, experiencing the stillness and hearing the mind rustle through the trees can be very relaxing. And how about the calmness of lying on a beach with a good book, and listening to the melodic sounds of the waves. Listening to music: there is a mystical and spiritual property in music that allows it to influence and impact our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual self. It reminds us of the joy of life, it is an instantaneous and effective way of uplifting our spirits. Remembering always to be grateful for everything, writing a list, or giving thanks can be an extremely â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

Amoul Owner and chef of Amoul Deli 14 Formosa Street Little Venice London W9 1EE

healing experience, for the little things we have, such as having a roof over our head, and day-to-day things or events we appreciate about a particular day, such as a friendly conversation we have had with someone. These activities are great for reducing feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. The greatest thing about all of them is that they are free and waiting for us to experience whenever we wish to do so. We have to engage in enhancing our appreciation of simply being alive. It is our duty to teach future generations how to enjoy the simple and free things of life, to love, to be compassionate, to climb trees and run wild in the fields, to help others which is central to moral teachings, helping others for no motive because living is giving. Simplifying our surroundings allows us to see the classic elegance of nature. It gives us a new lens through which we view the world. I believe a simple life is a good life: less is more. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Simplicity is the ultimate sophisticationâ&#x20AC;? Leonardo da Vinci.

Amoul 39

COASTLINE GALICIA Your local, fresh seafood shop “from the shore to your door” Armando Lema 8 times British oyster champion

69 Abbey Road, St John’s Wood London NW8 OAE Tel. 020 7624 9984 40

Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09 •

and another thing…

Fra me, set and match Lola Bailey

ime was, to have the ‘cachet’ of cool whilst myopically challenged meant wearing contact lenses – or staying indoors.

– a little tweaking here and there. Although admittedly, I do occasionally ‘pop in’ to peruse the latest eyewear.

Little has changed – bar the current craze for oversized sunglasses, that is. Glasses are still regarded as contraptions with irritating middle bits over the nose, or unwieldy bits of scaffolding that we the glasses wearing population insist on attaching to our faces/ inflicting on the public – much in the same way that we did back in the seventeenth century.

In spite of the above there remains an honesty about wearing glasses that appeals. I love seeing bespectacled celebrities such as Karolina Kurkova, Nicole Kidman, Michael Caine or Jarvis Cocker step out with their own eye furniture.

I am a real fan of glasses. To me, glasses are not just a clunky appendage; they are a part of who I am. I think of them in the same way as I think of a pair of shoes – every look needs a different pair. I just adore my Bulgari pair, (bought from Schuller’s in St John’s Wood High Street). These are my posh pair of glasses which I use for very important meetings. I then have another pair of studious looking steel framed glasses – my slopping around pair. And I confess to having my eye on yet another pair; oversized David Hockney-style tortoiseshells I spotted last week. A tidy set of three would be great. I concede that wearing glasses can be unhelpful at times. I despair of the way my glasses steam up whenever I am drinking anything hot. I have had to endure silly comments in my youth – simply for wearing glasses (of course I swatted these comments away, Obama-style, and rightly so). And it is immeasurably annoying to have my two year old grab my glasses off my face and throw them onto the floor.

And we now have a wealth of classy establishments stocking the most exquisite ranges – Safarian & Simon and Schuller, both exceptional establishments, are but a heartbeat away. If vintage is your thing, there is a whole new world to explore, too. Specsavers are not the only game in town you know, and ‘designer’ does not mean you have to go to Cutler and Gross in Knightsbridge. Then there’s the fun part. Glasses are the perfect prop – especially now that cigarettes are banned (by and large). Use their arms for making your very astute points by simply stabbing them in the air. Swirl them from side to side to communicate your thoughtfulness. Use their tips for contemplative gnawing (Schuller look away). And I love their power to wrong foot – think Clark Kent/ Superman. Repressed librarian? Yeah, right. Studious? Er, no. Brainbox? If only. There is no end to the different identities one can assume simply by donning a pair of glasses. I am told that in late eighteenthcentury France, a group of rich, disaffected men who referred to themselves as ‘Incroyables’, used scissor glasses to give themselves an air of mystery. I can believe it.

Glasses need TLC. Just ask Baruch Schuller how often I am in his shop for maintenance issues • Issue 10 Jul/Aug 09

The Essential Directoryy

An exclusive listing of selected shops, restaurants and other local businesses. Please contact them for more information and to discuss your specific requirements.

020 7289 9985

E bar 020 7432 8455 www.theebar.co.uk Raoul’s Café 020 7289 7313 www.raoulsgourmet.com Ricker Restaurants 0207 433 0880 www.rickerrestaurants.com The Boat House 020 7286 6752 The Fern House 020 7624 5455 Estate Agents Chesterton 020 7432 1922 www.chesterton.co.uk Compton Reeback 020 7266 5000 www.comptonreeback.co.uk London Tokyo Property Services 020 7372 7341 Florists Ashleigh Hopkins Florist 020 7449 0123 In the Pink Flowers 07789 866 124 gemma@inthepinkflowers.co.uk Food Shops Alimentari 020 8969 3999 Fresh Italian food www.alimentarilondon.com Coastline Galicia 020 7624 9984 Fresh fish and seafood Raoul’s Deli 020 7289 6649 www.raoulsgourmet.com Sheepdrove 020 7286 1400 Organic meat www.sheepdrove.com The Organic Grocer 020 7286 1400 Funeral Services Leverton and Sons Ltd. 020 7387 6075 www.levertons.co.uk Garden Centres Clifton Nurseries 020 7432 1871 www.clifton.co.uk Hair and Beauty Sali’s 020 7286 1761 Vitality 020 7266 3233 Handyman Services Handyman Service Plus 020 8772 1553 www.thrifthandy.org.uk Home Security Capstan Security 020 8441 9700 Homeopathy Queen’s Park Homeopaths 07740 484 555 Interiors Flaunt-it* Decoration Ltd 07930 473 222 www.flaunt-it-decoration.co.uk Fromental 020 7286 3471 High-end, hand-made interiors house www.fromental.co.uk My Interior Stylist 07516 762 768 www.myinteriorstylist.com Kitchen Furniture MC Stone design studio 020 7289 7102 www.mcstone.co.uk

020 7286 6386

Life Coaching Tick Tock Coaching 07793 554 228 Work-life coaching www.ticktockcoaching.co.uk

Architects Archplan 020 8340 1747 www.archplan.co.uk Beauty and General Wellbeing Divine 020 7266 5589 www.divinebeauty.co.uk Hydrohealing™ 020 7727 2570 www.hydrohealing.com Natural Medicine Works 07803 294 920 www.naturalmedicineworks.co.uk Yvonne Martin Beauty Clinic 020 7266 2121 Bedding for babies (natural) Natural Mat 020 7985 0474 www.naturalmat.com Business Support Portobello Business Centre 020 7460 5050 www.pbc.co.uk Buying and Selling Simply Sold 020 7624 0110 www.simplysold.co.uk Careers Support Jobs 4 Mothers 020 8537 3319 www.jobs4mothers.com Carpet Cleaning Little Venice Carpet Cleaning 020 7286 7785 Children’s Activities Brilliant Kids 020 8964 4120 www.brilliantkids.co.uk Gymboree Bayswater 020 7229 9294 Gymboree Hampstead 020 7794 8719 Paddington Arts 020 7286 2722 www.paddingtonarts.org.uk Puppet Theatre Barge 020 7249 6876 Tricycle Theatre and Cinema 020 7328 1000 www.tricycle.co.uk Yaa Asantewaa 020 7286 1656 Children’s Caterers Pomegranate Kids 07726 716 394 www.pomegranatecatering.co.uk Cleaning – General Domestic Bliss 020 7286 7785 Clothing (adults) Paulie 020 7266 0210 www.paulie.biz Clothing (children) Jou Jou et Lucy 020 7289 0866 Their Nibs www.theirnibs.com Dentists The Dental Practice 020 7328 1200 www.ebarandental.co.uk The Shirland Dental Practice 020 7289 3120 Dog Walking Kathleen Sullivan Dry Cleaning W9 Dry Cleaners Free delivery Eating Out Amoul

020 7289 5674

Walkie-Talkie Coaching 020 7289 5674 Coaching on the trot www.kscoaching.co.uk Luxury Gifts The Personal Paper Company 0845 3105732 Exquisite, personalised stationery online www.thepersonalpaperco.co.uk Ophthalmic Opticians Safarian and Simon 020 7722 1917 Schuller 020 7722 8242 Pamper Parties The Domestic Goddess Agency 020 8459 3490 www.domesticgoddess.mionegroup.com Personal Training Exercise Shop www.exerciseshop.net

020 7286 6671

Photography Charlotte Howard-Jones 07887 893 254 Yankophoto 07817 413 912 www.yankophoto.co.uk Physiotherapy Little Venice Pilates 020 7286 5000 www.littlevenicepilates.com Picture Framing Four Corners Framing Ltd. 020 8968 6024 www.fourcornersframingltd.co.uk Pilates Little Venice Pilates 020 7286 5000 www.littlevenicepilates.com Studio Pilates 07768 298 328 Plumbers H&E Installations Heating and plumbing

020 8697 4406 07779 786 899

Private Member’s Clubs The Inner Circle 020 7371 1893 www.theinnercircle.tv Property Maintenance Urban Solutions 020 7435 1111 Smarter property maintenance www.urbansolutions.co.uk Rubbish Clearance The Rubbish Lads www.rubbishlads.co.uk

0800 849 5865

Safe Deposits Metropolitan Safe Deposits 020 7722 2222 www.metrosafe.co.uk Vets Village Vet www.villagevet.co.uk

020 7289 1000

Wine and Wine Education The Winery 020 7286 6457 www.thewineryuk.com

Please note that LifeWest9 magazine accepts no responsibility in respect of any loss or damage that arise through the products, goods or services provided by the organizations listed or advertised in the magazine. Readers must be aware that they deal with these organizations at their own risk.

* Let us make the best of your home. Experienced and reliable painters and decorators working to the highest standards and attention to detail. Advice on design and colour schemes available. Carpentry, tiling, electrical and plumbing work can also be commissioned and overseen if required. Call now for a free quote on any size project. Flaunt-it Decoration Limited Steve Winney: 07930 473 222 info@flaunt-it-decoration.co.uk

www.flaunt-it-decoration.co.uk

THEATRE

•

CINEMA

•

GALLERY

THE TRICYCLE THEATRE SUMMER FUN 2009 CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE Thursday 23rd July – Saturday 29th August 2009 Booking for Summer Fun Activities opens at 10am Monday 13th July Thursday 23rd July Art & Craft with Sandy 11am – 12pm, 3-5 yrs | 1.30pm – 2.30pm, 5-7rs The Paintbox, £5/£4.50 Monday 27th July – Friday 31st July “Sweetsville” – The Summer Musical 10.30am-4.30pm, 11-13 yrs James Baldwin Studio, £50/£25 for the whole week A team of specialists will work with young people to produce a musical in just one week! The results will be presented in the Tricycle Theatre at 3pm on Friday 31st July. Packed lunch required for this workshop. Wednesday 5th August Drama Playhouse 10am-11am, 3-5 yrs | 11.30am-12.30pm, 4-6 yrs James Baldwin Studio, £6/£4 Friday 7th August Drama Thrills, Spills & Skills 10.30am-12pm, 5-7 yrs | 1pm-3pm, 8-11 yrs James Baldwin Studio, £6/£4

Tuesday 11th August – Friday 14th August Your Say, Your Play, Four Days! 11am-4pm, 14-16 yrs James Baldwin Studio, £30/£20 for all four days Acting, music, dazzling dance and singing are just some of the ingredients in this intense drama workshop, working with professionals from the theatrical world. Devise and create a powerful and exciting piece of theatre that will be presented at 2pm on Friday 14th August. Comfortable clothes and packed lunch required for this workshop. Monday 17th August Stage & Set Design 10.30am-4pm, 12-16 yrs | The Paintbox, £12/£10 One day theatre set project for budding artists and designers. Sketch in the Tricycle theatre, look at theatre set designs and create site specific 3-Dimensional constructions. Led by Tricycle Artist in Residence Natalie Ryde and sculptor Sandie Sutton, participants will learn to use materials creatively to produce exciting and challenging drawings and a large scale group installation.

Term Time Workshops – The Tricycle runs eleven different term-time workshops after school in drama, dance and music, each lasting for 10 weeks for children and young people aged between 18 months-16 years. Cost £22 / £11 reductions per term. Booking for Autumn Term Time Workshops opens on Tuesday 8th September 2009.

TRICYCLE BOX OFFICE 020 7328 1000 For further information on the education and young people’s programme, please call Gillian Christie, Education Director on 020 7372 6611 or email education@tricycle.co.uk

Tricycle Theatre 269 Kilburn High Road London NW6 7JR www.tricycle.co.uk