Village Life (Hitchin)

VillageLife Lifestyle | Business | Community

FREE

www.villagelifemag.com

MARCH 2010

• Codicote • Kimpton •Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • LittleWymondley • GreatWymondley • St. Ippolyts • Gosmore

wedding SPECIAL

TIPS FOR THE PERFECT DAY

Garden Diary NEW!

Your monthly green-fingered friend

TRAVEL TO: TURKEY Jetting off to the sun

We review The Globe Pub

PLUS local business reviews

BEAUTIFUL FLOORS • • • • • •

Supply and fit leading brands of wood, laminate flooring and carpet Established and reliable family business with the personal touch Domestic, commercial and insurance work undertaken All work full insured and guaranteed Quality craftmanship at very competitive prices View samples, see references and a portfolio of previous work

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE NO-OBLIGATION MEASURE AND QUOTE

TEL: 01462 817202 Mobile: 07903 594638, Email: mattflooring@mail.com

www.mandrflooring.co.uk

M&R FLOORING

CONTENTS 5

Welcome to March

7

Business Spotlight - Premium Carpet Care

8

Garden Calendar – What to do in March

SPRING IS IN THE AIR. 8

10-11 On your travels – Turkey 12

Business Review – The Peony Florist & Gift Shop

13

Business Interview – Firebreather Limo

16

Your Local – The Globe, Codicote

18

WEDDING FEATURE

19

Bridal Beauty Tips

20

Choosing your Florist / Bar for Anytime, Anywhere

22

Financial Planning for a Wedding

24

Choosing a Mobile Disco for a Wedding

26

Top 10 Honeymoon Tips

28

What’s on in March / Take a break

TRAVEL TO TURKEY 10

FIRE BREATHER LIMO 14

WEDDING FEATURE 18

Where Can You Find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine is delivered to 5000 homes and businesses across 10 villages. Find us in Codicote, Kimpton,Whitwell, Preston,

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Melanie Saavedra 01438 216950 mail@villagelifemag.com

St. Ippolyts and Gosmore.

PRODUCTION Dean Cook, The Magazine Production Company 01273 467579 deancook@magazineproduction.com

We are increasing our circulation every month, so if you didn’t receive

© 2010 Village Life (Hitchin)

a copy through your letterbox, you will do very shortly.

Village Life (Hitchin) is an independent magazine and does not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in the magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor or of Village Life magazine.

Breachwood Green, Graveley, Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley,

Village Life is published monthly by MJS Publishing.

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com March 2010

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

3

WELCOME

A

s you may have noticed we have changed the name of the magazine from the HitchinVillage Directory to ‘Village Life’ and given the magazine a whole new look and feel.

Village Life is delivered by hand by our three trusty lads to homes and businesses in Codicote, Kimpton, Preston, Graveley,Whitwell, Breachwood Green, Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley and two new additions Gosmore and St Ippolyts.

We would like to say a big THANKYOU to all the businesses who have supported us and shown faith in our publication over the last seven months.We know that keeping business local is very important to village communities and we hope that our new format will help our advertisers to increase the great response that they are already enjoying from our readers.

With the Wedding Season approaching, now is a busy time for many couples to start thinking about booking suppliers for their big day but with so much to organise where to you start? We have picked a handful of local suppliers to help get you started.

We hope you enjoy this new look, please feel free to email us your comments.

Remember if you have a local event or a story you would like us to mention then please email or call so we can put you in the magazine.

Bye for now

Jose & Melanie

March 2010

EMAIL US

mail@villagelifemag.com VISIT US AND READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE

www.villagelifemag.com CALL US 01438 216950

P.S. Don't forget to visit www.villagelifemag.com where you can visit the Village Life message board.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

5

VILLAGE LIFE

6

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Complete

Carpet

Care P

remium Carpet Care is a relatively new local company and was set up by Emma and Justin to help educate and serve the consumer in carpet and upholstery cleaning in Hertfordshire.

There are many misconceptions about carpet cleaning, so Emma and Justin decided to start a company that would offer the full package. From giving away free products such as stain removal solutions and tips, free consumer awareness books and by offering a free 24hr advice line, they can help educate customers in what to look out for when hiring a carpet cleaning company.

Premium Carpet Care also gives the customer a 100% satisfaction or your money back guarantee, as they are that confident in their ability to deliver an outstanding service. They have the equipment, solutions and fully qualified and trained staff to March 2010

tackle the toughest jobs. The company is certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration.

Premium Carpet Care is continuously growing as a company. In addition to serving residential customers throughout the county they also clean many Care Homes that require the most thorough of cleans.

Justin quotes, “It’s very satisfying when the customer sees the end result once we have cleaned. We can make the dirtiest carpets look beautifully clean and fluffy and the choice of refreshing odours we specifically add make the house smell lovely” You can contact Emma or Justin for a free healthy home audit without any obligation on 0800 612 5380 or visit their website at www. premiumcarpetcare.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

7

GARDEN CALENDAR

What to do in March

W

ell, Spring is almost here or so they tell us, but as I write it looks anything but spring like as the sleet is blowing in from Siberia. Still as we know Mother Nature has seen it all before and even as I write she is preparing to transform our gardens into something alive and invigorating but a place, none the less that needs some attention to get the best from it.

If you only get the chance to do one thing this month, spring clean the borders. Dig over the beds, starting from the back and working forward, getting rid of weeds as you go and cutting back the dead stems of any perennials low to the ground but being careful not to harm the new shoots that are coming. If you still feel inspired and have any energy left consider mulching the soil, covering it with a 2 inch layer of compost or bark chip, it slows down the weeds, keeps the soil moist during the coming long hot summer (yeah, right!) and encourages the worms to help us keep the soil sweet.

Don’t be in a rush to mow your lawn. While the ground is still very cold and wet it will only be growing very slowly and will definitely not appreciate the 8

shock of you and your mower sliding over it. Instead clear away any leaves and worm casts using a besom (witch’s) broom.

When it is drier and a bit warmer (yes its got to happen sooner or later) set the blades of your mower quite high and don’t be in a rush to lower them as spring gets under way. It is also the time to redefine those lawn edges that have lost their sharpness using a half moon edging tool or spade and go down a couple of inches and flick it back onto the bed, it makes a huge difference to the appearance and makes it easier to cut the edges later in the year.

Its time to prune the roses, if you prune nothing else, roses are a must or the only people who will appreciate your display will be the passengers and crew of Easyjet. There are many different types of roses around

these days so if you have any doubts about pruning yours ask at your local garden centre. In my experience they are always helpful and knowledgeable and who knows, you may buy something.

Now is the time to divide those snowdrops after the flowers have gone but while they still have their green leaves (don’t wait till they have died back) and replant around the beds so that next year they put on an even better show to remind us that spring is about to…well, spring!

Anyway, I think that’s enough to be getting on with, don’t you?

Written by Cliff and Caren of Caren’s Creations. For further information, you can contact Cliff or Caren on 07855 862 412 or at caren@ carenscreations.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

The most thorough carpet cleaning ever seen… or it’s FREE! That’s right, the most thorough cleaning ever. My carpet, upholstery & curtain cleaning is the best and most thorough you could ever have, if you don’t agree I won’t accept your payment.

3 1

Reasons why you should use my company to clean your valuable carpet

THOROUGH CLEANING – We use the most thorough cleaning method there is. Our method doesn’t leave a residue or cause shrinkage & is the most powerful cleaning process around. It cleans way down to the base of your carpet removing harmful bacteria and leaving your carpet clean and healthy.

2

HONEST PRICING – We promise no highpressure sales gimmicks. The prices we quote you are fully inclusive. There are no extras. The price quoted includes all the solutions, machinery and man-power we need to get the job done right. We only have one standard of cleaning – thorough, professional & exhaustive.

3

FREE CONSUMER INFORMATION – I’ve dedicated this business to helping you and other consumers to better understand carpet & upholstery cleaning – that’s why I publish my Consumers Guide To Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, which I offer free to everyone.

SPECIAL OFFER

HAVE TWO ROOMS CLEANED AND GET ANOTHER FREE (up to 200 sq ft)

or

25% OFF of overall price.

Valid until 21st April 2010 quote ref HD1.

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Minimum call out £80.00

WARNING

Don’t call any carpet cleaning company until you have listened to this FREE 24-hour recorded message: ‘The Consumer’s Guide To Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning’ Listen to this message to learn: • How to avoid 4 carpet cleaning rip-offs • 8 questions to ask a carpet cleaner before you let him into your home.

• 6 Costly cleaning misconceptions

FREEPHONE: 0800 612 5379

For a FREE ‘Healthy Home’ no obligation audit freephone 0800 612 5380 or call 07756 403073 www.premiumcarpetcare.co.uk

Premium Carpet Care

ON YOUR TRAVELS

TURKEY

Merhaba (hello)

T

ourists started visiting Turkey in the early eighties; it was very different in those days and a relative newcomer to the main stream holiday companies.

Turkey has changed over the years and is now one of the most popular destinations for our summer holidays; with

10

something for everyone Turkey really does have it all.

The flight to Turkey is around 4 hours with departures from your local airports Luton and Stansted, you will land in either Bodrum, Dalaman or Antalya before you are transferred to your chosen resort. Turkey is such a vast country and you can expect your transfer to take anything from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. The Mediterranean climate of long hot summers with temperatures reaching up to the mid 30’s with around 14 hours of sunshine in the height of July will certainly tempt you on a cold March day!

Bodrum is the birthplace of Herodotus, this area blends history with a great climate, stunning beaches, fantastic scenery, waterfront restaurants, watersports, markets and bazaars. The upmarket resort of Bodrum also boasts a world-class marina. One of Turkey’s most popular resorts, Bodrum has whitewashed houses

covered in bougainvillea and is also home to trendy bars and clubs, chic boutiques and sophisticated restaurants. The whole town is dominated by the Castle of St Peter which overlooks the headland and towers above the streets. Only 3km west of Bodrum with easy access by Dolmus bus and boat services, Gumbet, boasts one of the longest sandy beaches with shallow, clear waters, perfect for watersports. There are plenty of shops and restaurants, and nightlife with its bars and late night dancing.

Antalya airport will take you to the Turkish Riviera boasting stunning mountain scenery, beautiful beaches, secluded coves, and vast pine forests.

This popular holiday destination has a beautiful coastline of rocky headlands and secluded coves nestling between the spectacular Taurus Mountains and the shimmering crystal clear Mediterranean Sea. It offers well established sandy beach resorts, luxury hotels, more than 300 days of sunshine a year

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

ON YOUR TRAVELS

and many significant historical sites.

From Dalaman airport you will be off to Turkey’s Turquoise or Lycian Coast which boasts sweeping bays and pine clad hills, crystal clear aquamarine waters, verdant valleys and ancient sites dating back to the Lycian era. The scenery is spectacular and many miles of coastline are protected conservation areas, as you will find loggerhead sea turtles. This southwest corner of Turkey with its bustling coast resorts is perfect for families. Bays and lagoons just waiting to be discovered, and wonderful beaches range from long stretches of coarse golden sands to secluded pebble coves. Watersports including snorkelling, diving, paragliding and white water rafting are popular, as is hiking through the stunning pine clad mountains.

Sights include the beautiful coastal lagoon at Olu Deniz, the ghost village of Kaya Koyu, the March 2010

Lycian tombs at Caunos and the Dalyan mud baths.

Whilst many of us are happy to just sit back and relax with a nice cool drink others are looking for adventure and culture to really get to know the country. Turkey has many day trips and excursions to keep you occupied from a classic Turkish Bath, to sailing on a mini med cruise, Ephesus & Pamukkale (an open air museum with one of the seven Wonders of the Ancient world) or how about a classic Turkish night with traditional meze and folk dancers!

With accommodation ranging from a small and simple bed and breakfast, boutique hotel, 5 star deluxe or a great all round family fun hotel every taste is catered for. Be it a long weekend or 2 weeks in the sun why not head to Turkey.......?

Contact Melanie at Off Broadway Travel for all your travel needs on 07932 154 240 or email melanie@ offbroadwaytravel.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

11

BUSINESS REVIEW

The Peony Florist & Gift Shop

T

his month, we decided to pop in to The Peony Florist and Gift shop with our camera and notebook.

Situated in the heart of Codicote you will find a wonderful florist and gift shop. The bright and airy shop holds a host of goodies to tempt you with many handmade gifts on offer.

Lotty the shop owner is an experienced florist and can help with all your floral needs from a traditional birthday bouquet, contemporary arrangements and seasonal flowers through to weddings, funerals, corporate or contract work. Lotty offers a free consultation service to ensure your needs are fully understood and to provide the very best in customer service. She prides herself on offering beautiful flowers for all occasions with a

12

friendly service.

If you are looking for something unique you will be impressed with the craftsmanship of the handmade gifts that are available. There are beautiful necklaces and bracelets, photo frames and albums and also a selection of fair-trade gifts including bags, scarves and journals. If this isn’t enough take a look at the beautiful candles and bath salts, along with unusual vases all on display in the shop.

Why not pop in and browse for yourself. There are gorgeous gifts for mothers day. The shop is open from Monday to Friday 10am – 5pm and Saturdays from 10am until 2.30pm.

This is a real gem in your local community and Lotty is very friendly and approachable.

Peony Florist and Gift Shop - 121 High Street, Codicote Herts.

Tel 01438 821888

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

Quality Painting & Decorating Peter Battershill Home: 01438 833 163 Mobile: 07860 260 964 e-mail: peter.battershill1@tiscali.co.uk

March 2010

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

13

Firebreather BUSINESS INTERVIEW

LIMO

F

irebreather Limo is a relatively new company based in Stevenage and offering a limo party bus service.

This month we met up with David Chell who is one of the partners of the business.

Tell about your business?

The Firebreather Limo is a 16 seater converted bus with Video Screens, DVD player showing Music Videos, a Playstation 2, a pumping sound system, on board karaoke, a champagne bar, a dance pole and 16 seats, all fitted with seatbelts.We drop off clients on nights out and then pick them up and bringing them home, like a limo service only much more.We are a mobile party experience on wheels!

Where do you take your customers?

We have taken customers to the theatre and to clubs, we have done pub crawls where we wait in the car park until the next pub, we have done kids parties where we drive around for a couple of hours and then take them to McDonalds.This week we got a 14

booking for the races at Ascot in June, so we will take customers anywhere.

How much does it cost?

This depends on how long the bus is booked for, where the pickup and drop off points are and also the number of pickup and drop off points. We often find that because of our capacity to take 16 people, we work out cheaper than getting taxis or a train. A trip to London picking up from a village in SG4 and dropping off in Central London for around 9pm and then picking up at 2am to come home would work out around £480 which is £30 per person with 16 people. A return trip from SG4 to a destination under an hour away would start around £300.

Can you offer a special deal for our readers?

If they mention Village Life when they call, we will give a 10% discount for trips in March and April.

For further information, call 0845 643 6920 or visit www.firebreatherlimo.com

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

Fringeline Unisex hair salon

VILLAGE LIFE

Liberation Beauty Salon

Unisex Hairdressers

Unisex Beauty Salon

Catering for all ages and styles

Catering for all your beauty needs

With Foil Highlights £74.00 incl. cut and blow dry

Including Reflexology & Indian Head Massage

Proprietress: Michelle Scott-Worthington

Beautician: Hayley Roberts

Fully Qualified Staff

Tel: 01438 833 468

Reduced prices for Senior Citizens & Children

Fully Qualified Staff

Tel: 07786 860 028

Late appointments upon request

46a High Street • Kimpton • Herts • SG4 8RN

March 2010

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

15

YOUR LOCAL

The Globe T

he Globe is located on Codicote’s High Street and is under new management. Dominic Smith and Chris Govey took over as landlords in September last year and Village Life met up with Lucy Smith the General Manager to talk about the pub and to get some photos for our readers.

The Globe prides itself on being a family pub where children are welcome. A traditional looking pub with the home comforts of a log fire for those crisp winter days.

You will be very tempted by the great selection of home cooked food on offer, served Monday to Saturday from 12pm to 2pm and from 6pm to 9pm in the evening. Lunch starts at just £3.95 and in addition to the menu there is a specials board with 12 options, offering good homemade English 16

food at reasonable prices. The homemade desserts will satisfy your sweet tooth with too many to choose from! Freshly cooked food is also available for takeaway. On Sundays, you can enjoy a traditional Sunday roast from 12pm to 5pm with all produce locally sourced.

With a good selection of wine, beers and spirits along with traditional ales and a full running coffee bar serving cappuccinos, lattés and the usual coffee selection, The Globe offers a drink for all tastes.

You don’t have to go far for a great night out as The Globe has a fantastic entertainment policy with live entertainment every Saturday night from local bands, discos and karaoke. All major sports events are shown and The Globe also puts on charity events every other month at the Peace Memorial Hall which is

just over the road from the pub on the high street.

The charity events are run under the name of Globe Productions and last month, a Michael Jackson Vs The Blues Brothers night raised over £1600 for the Help for Heroes Fund. On 27th March it is Meatloaf Vs Tina Turner and tickets are £10 in advance from The Globe or £15 on the night.

Doors open at 7.30pm and the evening goes on until 12am. The May evening is already planned and will be The Jam Vs Amy Winehouse.

Next month we will be enjoying a meal at The Globe and writing a review of the food so watch this space.

The Globe 115 The High Street, Codicote, SG4 8UA, 01438 820 349

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

                 

    



   

   

Italy - Studio Apartment for Sale £30,000 Fully Furnished Castel di Ieri - Abruzzo Located in the very centre of the four national parks of Abruzzo.

45 minutes drive from Pescara and 2 hours from Rome. Fully renovated to the highest possible standard, furnished and equipped for immediate occupation.

Extremely low running and maintenance costs. Can be left securely when unoccupied For further information please contact Christine on 01462 423 304 (No offers please).

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950 To2010 advertise in The Hitchin Directory place call Melanie March VillageVillage Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950on 01438 216 950

7 21 17

WEDDING FEATURE

Wonderful

Weddings 18

With the Wedding Season approaching, now is a busy time for many couples to start thinking about booking suppliers for their big day but with so much to organise where to you start?

We have picked a handful of local suppliers to help get you started. We have some top tips from a florist, a mobile disco, a travel agent, a mobile bar, a make-up artist and a financial planner.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

WEDDING FEATURE

BRIDAL BEAUTY TIPS

P

erfect skin and make up for the big day means getting into some good habits in the lead up to your wedding day. Make-up artist Emma Trevillion from Scrumptious Make Up shares some top tips.

SKIN TIPS

Skin quench. Beautiful skin comes from

within so be sure to drink plenty of water – preferably at room temperature to aid circulation. Avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol, which can cause dehydration and effect your skin.

Herbal love. Warm fluids and herbal teas can help with circulation for clear and healthy skin.

Bathing beauty. Remember that over-exposure to hot water can dehydrate the skin.Take shorter baths or showers and keep the water cool or warm, not hot. Add bath oils to keep your skin moisturised and replace harsh soaps or shower gels with milk- or oil-based varieties, which are gentler on the skin. Apply a body while your skin is still damp.

Weather check. Adapt your skin-care routine to the season. A refreshing facial wash might feel right in spring, but a milky cleanser is usually gentler in winter. Remember to protect your skin from the sun throughout the year, but especially in summer.

Wear a cream with SPF15 or more, and don’t forget a lip balm with an SPF too.

Winter wonder. Believe it or not, central heating can have a drying effect on your skin.When the heating is on, place a bowl of water by the radiator to act as a humidifier, or leave some windows open.

MAKE UP TIPS

First things first. Use a cream-based moisturiser

before applying make-up. Next apply a primer as this will keep your skin hydrated and make your foundation last longer. Smashbox and Chanel both have great primers.

Firm foundations. Use a foundation that is fluidbased and contains a sunscreen factor. Chanel Vitalumière gives a radiant finish and contains SPF15, while Lancôme Photogénic is good for dry March 2010

skins and contains SPF12.

Blushing bride. Apply blusher to keep your complexion looking rosy. A cream-based product such as MAC Blushcreme gives a natural effect.

Dab a blusher brush in the cream and use outwardsweeping motions to brush into your hairline, finishing off with your fingers. Smile when applying blusher, blushing the apple of your cheeks lightly, then going slightly darker out towards the hairline.

Look into my eyes. The Take Wing shadow set by MAC contains four great complementary shades.

Cover your whole eyelid and right up under your eyebrow with Tickles (a lightly silvered pink), then add Restless (silvery grey) over the eyelid only.

Apply Bravado (an antique rose shade) just over the eyeball area, and finish with Take Wing (rustic brown) in the crease of your eyelid. Remember to blend thoroughly with a blending brush at every stage.

Mascara must. Choose a waterproof mascara in case the emotion of the day causes tears! My favourites are Lancôme Hypnôse Waterproof, Maxfactor More Lashes Waterproof and Kiss Me Mascara by US company Blinc.

Emma Trevillion covers Herts, Beds and the surrounding areas.Trained at the London Academy, she is qualified in many forms of makeup and is a MAC Pro member that has attended many MAC Pro master classes. You can contact Emma on emma@scrumptiousmakeup. com or visit ww.scrumptiousmakeup.com

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

19

WEDDING FEATURE

CHOOSING YOUR FLORIST

A

good florist creates designs to compliment the bride, her dress, the style of wedding and the venue.The first step to getting the perfect flowers is a face to face consultation, this helps to get an idea of the brides personality and taste as well as budget. It is important that you have chosen your dress before the consultation.You may have an idea of what flowers you would like, if so bring along any pictures or colour samples.We have books, magazines and our portfolio for you to look through for inspiration as well as lots of advice & idea’s.

The bridal bouquet is the most important floral piece on the day. Every bouquet created at Peony is unique and made using top quality flowers.

Once we have an idea of the brides requirements the bridesmaids, buttonholes and church/ venue arrangements can be planned so your flowers coordinate beautifully.

To book a free consultation call Lotty at Peony Florist and Gift Shop, on 01438 821 888 or 07815 758 337, email at mail@peonyflorist.co.uk or visit her shop at 121 High Street, Codicote.

BAR FOR ANYTIME, ANYWHERE

I

f you are having your Wedding Reception in a marquee or a village hall, then you will need somebody to provide a Bar Service.Tornado Mobile Bar is a local supplier of outside bars; they will setup a bar at your reception and serve a good range of drinks.

Tornado provides fully licensed and friendly staff with a well stocked bar offering a choice of wines, beers, sprits and soft drinks. Draught Lager and Bitter is provided on tap through a cooler and there is a glass fronted fridge for wines and bottled drinks.

Prices are comparable with those paid in a pub and a bar counter and small marquee is available if required. For more information, visit www.mobile-bar.uk.com or call Dave on 07738 129 063.

20

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

                

 

  support@hertshelpdesk.co.uk

 

• • • • • • • • •

        

   18

March 2010

Please mention Village Directory when responding to adverts VillageThe Life |Hitchin www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

21

WEDDING FEATURE

FINANCIAL PLANNING

A

wedding should be the chance for a couple to celebrate their love for each other, the last thing on their mind should be can we afford this?

Our top tip for weddings would be to set a reasonable budget and stick to it. A wedding can be a very emotional time, so having agreed budgets can keep these emotions in check.

Traditionally the bride’s father would fund the cost of a wedding, but in the modern world we find that the both families and in some cases the bride and groom also contribute to the costs. If you are getting married for the second time, most bride and grooms fund the whole wedding, which can run into thousands of pounds.

However some future planning can ease the cost of getting married, so you can relax and enjoy the day without worrying about the bills.

If your children are still young, start funding ISA investments, as these grow tax free. If you are looking at longer than 10 years consider equity plans, however remember that the values can rise as well as fall, but weddings normally give you some notice to manage these issues.

Even if you only have a short time to save, a cash based ISA should be the first type of contract considered.This will give you a fund of money, growing tax free, that you can use to fund deposits and save for a total budget (if set). After ISA’s general deposit accounts should be chosen as the timescales would not suit an equity based investment.

You can now insure your day, a valuable protection for deposits, against a supplier not turning up, the death of an immediate family member leading to cancellation of the ceremony, however the policy cannot cover the bride or groom getting cold feet.

Once married and honeymooned, consideration should then be given to joint finances.Today the majority of couples have lived together before 22

getting married, so some of this may already have been completed.

Contact should be made with mortgage lenders and insurance companies to confirm change of names. If members of company pension schemes expression of wish forms should be completed to reflect any changes in wishes.

If wills have been made these should be reviewed as Inheritance Tax rules will have altered. It is worth noting that if you are getting married for the second time and already have children, that step children are not recognised under rules of intestacy and so a review of wills is essential not only for financial matters but also guardianship.

Future planning can now be undertaken for joint plans, wishes for the future whether it is a larger home, retiring early or just children in the future, unfortunately they all have financial implications.

Although financial planning is not the most romantic subject to consider with your wedding, if completed, it can lead to a secure future for the happy couple achieving your dreams rather than just chasing them.

For further information and advice, call Andy Prior on 07796 167 670 or visit www.priorknowledge.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

Off Broadway Travel

PEST CONTROL AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT Hi I’m Mel, your personal Holiday Consultant. Let me take the stress out of planning your trip, whether it is a weekend break in the UK , break in the Winter Sun or your Honeymoon.

PEST CONTROL & WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT OFFICE: 01767 315101

07932 154 240

March 2010

SHIRES

TEL: 07890 131174

Give me a call on

ectory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950

• WASPS • RATS • MICE • ANTS • • RABBITS • MOLES • SQUIRRELS • • FOXES • BIRDS • MOTHS • FLEAS • DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE & PERSONAL SERVICE

Approved by: National Pest Technicians Association, Trading Standards and SafeContractor

27

Shires Pest Control QP 0301.indd 1

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

22/02/2010 13:39

23

WEDDING FEATURE

CHOOSING A MOBILE DISCO

M

ost Couples spend a considerable amount of time planning every detail of their big day, however little thought is put in to the evening reception even though it is one of the longest parts of the wedding.The Mobile DJ can either make or break the evening reception and if it isn’t right, it will be what people remember about your big day. Here are a few tips to help you select the right DJ: • Meet up face to face with your DJ before booking them.This should be no problem to a professional DJ and will allow you to gauge their enthusiasm, experience, passion, professionalism and, most importantly their personality. Does it fit in with yours? Ask them for ideas, ask questions about the way they work and even how they dress while working.

• You should be offered a pre-event meeting as part of the package, this gives the DJ an opportunity to understand your music preferences, running order of the day, who to call in an emergency etc.. By being prepared, 24

your evening is more likely to run smoothly without any surprises.

• Check that the DJ has experience of playing at weddings as they are very different to birthday parties and require a different level of music and microphone skills. Ask to see testimonials and for a couple of references of previous couples.

• Ask about the DJ’s music collection, a good wedding DJ should have a mixture of music across most genres but especially 60s, Motown, soul, disco, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s and present day music. Your DJ should be happy to take requests and should be able to play to the crowd to keep them dancing.

• Whatever you choose as your first dance, practise dancing to it at home! This may sound silly but there is nothing worse than your first dance song being played when you suddenly realise that you can’t dance to it.

• Ask to see pictures of the DJ’s rig to ensure they have a suitable setup; you don’t want any cheesy 70’s light boxes or cables and plugs on show.

Check that the quote you are given includes everything, some mobile discos prices will include a few basic lights and then you will need to pay more for a full lightshow.

• Ask the DJ about Backup equipment, what happens if something fails? They should be able to quickly change a piece of equipment over to keep your evening running smoothly.

• Ensure that your DJ’s equipment is PAT tested (tested for electrical safety) and that he/she holds Public Liability Insurance (PLI) of at least £2m. Most hotels and many venues will ask to see PAT and PLI certificates before allowing DJ’s to perform.

• Make sure your DJ uses a booking contract; don’t accept a verbal agreement for them just to turn up at your Wedding.

• Most importantly, enjoy the last few hours and finish your day in style!

Written by Jose Saavedra from MJS Events who specialises in Wedding Discos, you can find out more by visiting www.mjsevents.com or by calling Jose on 07734 387 478.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

HOME APPLIANCE REPAIRS

 

  

Repairs of Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Cookers & Ovens and all domestic appliances.

Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda and Whirlpool.

SHIRON

  



DOMESTIC APPLIANCES



Tel: 01438 720304



Mobile: 07739 922493



For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

hiron Domestic QP 0310.indd 1

25/02/2010 12:34

JCS SOLICITORS Divorce & Separation Cohabitation Children

 We are a niche firm who provide a supportive and personal service during the stressful experience of divorce and family separation.

We cover Herts & Beds.

Tel: 01438 820 946

www.jcssolicitors.co.uk To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory plac Hill House, 1 St Albans Rd, Codicote, Herts, SG4

March 2010

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

25

WEDDING FEATURE

10 HONEYMOON TIPS

T

his is a very important and special holiday for you both and with all the wedding plans and arrangements this will be the “icing on the cake” as you can relax and just enjoy your time together. Here are a few points to think about when choosing your honeymoon destination.

1. Weather — check carefully and ask your travel agent what the weather is like as the rainy season may be when you are looking to travel 2. Book early — to avoid disappointment and to get the best deal as soon as you have your wedding date start thinking about your honeymoon.

Honeymoon deals — getting married is very 3. costly so remember to advise your agent that is it your honeymoon to make sure you get all those extras you are entitled to e.g. room upgrades, fruit and flowers....

4. Budget — be realistic and listen to your travel agent for advice on where your money will go further!

5. Name change — you can travel in your maiden name as it is probably easier to change your passport once you return but if you do change your name before the honeymoon make sure the honeymoon is booked in your married name.

26

6. Days of flying — be open minded as not every destination has a flight every day of the week so you may need to wait a few days before taking off.

7. Travel Insurance — make sure you purchase adequate insurance as soon as your honeymoon is booked.

Gift List — at Off Broadway Travel we offer a 8. free of charge “gift list” service as an alternative to the traditional list.This way your guest can help contribute to your honeymoon which helps you with your budget.

9. Destination — try and go somewhere different that both of you haven’t been to and think about what you want to do in the time you have away. Maybe look at a city and beach or safari for some adventure or just relax on a white sand beach.

10. Enjoy — put your feet up, grab a cocktail, relax and make the most of your great escape!

Written by Mel at Off Broadway Travel. For help and advice on booking your honeymoon, you can call Mel on 07932 154 240 or email her at melanie@offbroadwaytravel.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

WHAT’S ON





  

  

   

  

• • •



 



Village Village Tree Services Tree Services

“Would your garden also benefit from a makeover?

If your answer is ‘Yes’, then I’m here to help you”

Professional Tree Care Services All Aspects of Tree Work Undertaken Fully Qualified and Insured Logs Available

CAREN BLACK – Garden Designer

Qualifications

RHS Certificate in Horticulture: Distinction 2002 Diploma in Plants and Planting Design Student of the Year 2003: Capel Manor College Diplomas in Garden Design and Garden History

Experience • •





     

• • • •



Founded Caren’s Creations in 2003 Has designed over 40 gardens - portfolio and client references available for inspection





Services • • • • •

Gardens Designed in full consultation with Clients Full range of individual, personal plans Project Management Full Planting service Gardens Restored / Maintained.

Caren’s Creations We tailor our service to fit your requirements Contact: Caren Black or Cliff Martin Tel: 01438 871373 (Whitwell) or 07855 862412 Email: caren@carenscreations.co.uk



Tel: 01462 435 873 Tel: 01462 435 873 Mobile: 07717 744274 Mob: 07717 744 274

March 2010

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

27

VILLAGE LIFE

What’s on in March Want to Try and Learn to Play a Brass Instrument?

8th March, Hitchin Rugby Club King George V Playing Fields Old Hale Way Hitchin, SG5 1XL Hitchin Youth Band: meet on Mondays at 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Hitchin Rugby Club. All young brass players, including beginners are very welcome and selections of instruments are available to lend out. For more info or to register an interest contact Alice Bailey on 01462 423534 or email youthband@ hitchinband.co.uk.

Waking up the House at Shaw’s Corner

Sat 13, Sun 14 Mar 2010 13:00 to 16:00, Shaw’s Corner, Ayot St. Lawrence, Welwyn, Herts, AL6 9BX Watch as we open the house and welcome our visitor for the new season.

Please wear warm clothing and flat shoes.

HI-DE-HI! At the Gordon Craig Theatre in Stevenage

Friday 19th-Saturday 27th March

By Jimmy Perry & David Croft. We are very proud to announce a major tour of HI-DE-HI which has not been seen on stage since it was last in the West End in 1984. The brand new and hilarious production will star BARRY HOWARD & NIKKI KELLY who were in the original 1980s TV sitcom as ‘Barry & Yvonne Stuart-Hargreaves’ and the ever-popular

and very funny DAMIAN WILLIAMS, who is the new presenter on Sky One’s ARE YOU SMARTER THAN YOUR TEN-YEAR OLD?, as ‘Ted Bovis’. The production features the famous rock ‘n’ roll HI-DE-HI theme – ‘Holiday Rock’ which actually made the charts in 1981 and was even performed on ‘Top Of The Pops’ and a whole host of other great musical numbers. Guaranteed to be a huge Box Office success as the characters are as fresh today as they were 30 years ago don’t miss out on this chance to book one of the most nostalgic, funniest and most memorable shows around.

Tickets: Evenings £20.00 and £17.00, Concessions £1.50 off, Matinees £16.00 all seats, Box Office 08700 131030

The World’s Premier Beatles Tribute band - The Bootleg Beatles In Concert 8,00pm, 26th March 2010, Alban Arena in St Albans Now into their 26th year The BB’s have set the standard for all those hundreds of ‘tribute bands’ who have followed in their footsteps as they continue to keep the spirit and magic of the greatest pop group the world has ever seen well and truly alive. “Mind-boggling accuracy” - Mail On Sunday. Tickets: £22.50. Box Office: 01727 844488

Mothers Day Lunch Sunday, 14 Mar 2010, Bucks Head, Stevenage Road Little Wymondley Herts,SG4 7HY Treat that special person in your life to a delicious Mothers Day carvery at the Bucks Head, Little Wymondley. Our carvery is renowned for being one of the best in the area, with three choices of meat, unlimited vegetables and all the trimmings, so please book early to secure your place. Open from 12 noon until 5pm. Tel: 01438 353320 Sunday 14 Mar 2010, 12pm-2pm, Hitchin Priory, Hitchin Priory Tilehouse Street, Hitchin,SG5 2DL Spoil your mother this mother’s day.

Treat her to a special lunch at Hitchin Priory. Includes a surprise gift for every mum £24.95 per adult and £12.95 per child. Be sure to book your table early!

Tel: 01462 420500 Sunday 14 Mar 2010, Doughty’s Brasserie, 87 Bancroft Hitchin Herts ,SG5 1NQ Treat Your Mum to lunch at Doughty’s Brasserie. Treat your Mum to Lunch; we are open at both Hitchin and at Fairfield Park. £26.50pp, Children under 10 £13.50. Tel: 01462 759765 If you have something you want to share then email us at mail@ villagelifemag.com

Take a Break…

Find the missing word that inks each pair for example (TOFFEE – APPLE – PIE). The first letter of each link word will spell out a sport.

DRAUGHT WALK CART GOOD PIG HIGH OWN 28

BELLY DUE SPIN OUT HORSE DAY KEEPER

SODUKU

MISSING LINK

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

March 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

Artisan Loft Ladders

• Loft Ladders • New or Enlarged hatches • Boarding • Lighting • Insulation

Lofts cleaned, cleared of rubbish and lined with plasterboard and insulation

01992 633 883 www.artisanloftladders.co.uk

Is your business an uphill struggle?

Reach out to 10,000 people

• • • •

Advertise in this spot from dvertisement / editorial is as just per my request and give my £45 a month ear as shown in the above publication

Call 01438 220558 _______________ Print name________________________ or email: mail@villagelifemag.com March 2010

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

29



michael.shelley@live.co.uk

SHOWCASE

MARIA’S MOBILE HAIRDRESSING For Ladies & Gentelmen

General Builders and Maintenance

Expert salon treatment in the comfort of your own home at a time that suits you.

All building work undertaken.

Walling – internal & external, patios, drives, etc…

Please call Maria 07796 565773

Tel: 07919 157128

Electrical

Qualified Electrician

“No job too small” Tel: 01438 820 820

Mobile: 07930 243651 Email: michael.shelley@live.co.uk A member of ElecSa

DISCOUNT



ALL MAJOR    BRANDS STOCKED        FREE DELIVERY   ON ORDERS OVER £10   TELEPHONE 



Waxing & Massage treatments  at a fraction of the cost of most  salon prices.

 CALL JO   07960 980 317



THIS AD WORKS!

    Let’s face it, you just read it!  ADVERTISE HERE TO 9000 LOCAL CUSTOMERS FROM JUST £20pm! 

CALL 01432 216950 Terms and conditions apply.

     I. BURGESS PLUMBING Established since 1971

• EST. 1971 • All plumbing work undertaken ALL PLUMBING • No Job too smallUNDERTAKEN WORK • 24hr Emergency out SMALL NO JOBcallTOO

For all occasions, large music collection and great sound and light show.

Call us on 01438 220 558 or visit www.aaadisco.com

PET FOOD & SUPPLIES

07952 735 672 graveley@live.co.uk

The Peony Florist & Gift Shop Beautiful �lowers for all occasions and lots of handmade gifts.

 24h EMERGENCY CALL OUT  CONTACT IAN BURGESS  07711 263889

01438 821888 121 High St, Codicote www.peony�lorist.co.uk

ian.burgess99@googlemail.com

Please mention The Hitchin Village Directory when responding to adverts

MOBILE DISCOS

30

Michael Shelley

WAXING  &

MASSAGE

by Jo

30

FINSBURY BUILDERS

JR ENTERPRISES ADVERT TO GO HERE

LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION We can distribute your

leaflets to our 10 villages for just £30 per 1000 delivered (just 3p per leaflet).

CALL 01432 216950

GOT YOU

You have read this ad too!

HOW CAN YOU NOT INVEST £20pm HERE TO REACH OUT TO YOUR NEW CUSTOMERS?

CALL 01432 216950

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

Terms and conditions apply.

March 2010





 

GH Building and Landscaping design has years of experience to make your imagination become a reality.

What we do...

• • • • • • • •

Extensions Porches Conservatories Refurbishments Any general building work Patios, Decking and Pathways Laid lawn and garden preparation Building wall and outbuildings

62 Sparrow Drive Stevenage Herts SG2 9FD Telephone 01438 724660 Mobile 07867 794100 To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950

31

Mention this ad in Village Life Magazine when your call and get a 10% discount.

DON’T PANIC!

Deep Cleaning plus Fast Drying for Upholstery, Carpets and Leather

Burn Retufting Antico & Karndean floors cleaned Oriental Rugs and Curtain Specialist Carpets and Fabric Protector Leather Renovation Professional, reliable and good value for money.

Courteous and uniformed operatives.

Recommended by leading retailers, insurance company and other cleaners.

Nearly 20 years in this area and we are not a franchise.

CleaningNEEDS Call us on 01438 821154 www.cleaningneeds.co.uk 74 High Street, Codicote. SG4 8XD