Lifestyle Monthly january 2013

Happy New Year to you all!

A Note from our Award winning Editor...

I hope you have all recovered from your festive fun. Have you any new year's resolutions? Have you any personal or professional goals you want to reach or any habits you want to kick? Good luck to you. This is a time to reflect on the changes we want. For me, with months away from our fifth birthday party, I want to ensure Lifestyle's events are bigger and brighter than ever before. We start with the Liverpool Lifestyle Awards next month. Please vote for our shortlisted companies who all deserve to win for the fantastic service they offer our city to ensure it remains the number one city break destination outside of London. Go to liverpoollifestyleawards.co.uk The winners will be announced at our star studded black tie dinner in front of a host of television personalities and business people. This month we chat exclusively to Stavros Flatley. Where does the time fly? It's been 4 years since he appeared on Britain's Got Talent and his life has completely changed since then.

We also chat to celebrity chef Aldo Zilli and Ellie Goulding who releases her new album. As always we're packed with music reviews, news, events and celebrity news. In addition, our sister company, Model101 launches this month. It is a fashion agency offering photography studio space, workshops in modelling and all things fashion which we are really excited about.

Whatever projects you are working on, good luck for 2013, let us all toast the new year with health and success for us all.

THINKING OF ADVERTISING WITH US? LIFESTYLE MONTHLY

IS YOUR NUMBER ONE CHOICE.

“The feature of the Masato brand in Lifestyle magazine was the best we have seen in a magazine, crisp, clear accurate & colourgraphic with style & chic-ness. Since our feature in Lifestyle magazine this as raised our profile in the North West not just Merseyside we now have a high following on social media such as Facebook & Twitter for our designs and we are looking at possible boutiques within Merseyside & Cheshire.”

Masato Jones

Amanda Moss, Editor

“Thank you Amanda, I really appreciate what you do for Liverpool people and business, you truly are fab”.

Caroline Oates, Fashion Designer

"Shhhadazzle has worked with Lifestyle Magazine for the last 7 months, they have helped me advertise, promote and market my shoe company from the start of my business. They have given me great advice on the fashion business as and when i have needed, which has been a great help. I really dont know what i would have done without the hard working team! Thank you Lifestyle Magazine!” Laura from Shhhadazzle xxx

“I would like to thank Lifestyle Magazine, especially Amanda and Neil for the professional way they run the magazine. Lifestyle Magazine are always looking to lead the way when it comes to events in the region, every event I have been to has exceeded my expectations! Zest Lets are delighted to be associated with the magazine and have noticed an increase in enquiries from the adverts we have run. The magazine keeps on getting stronger and in my opinion is the ‘premier’ magazine to advertise your business in! “.

Julie, Zest Lets

“Many thanks for the magazine, and what a lovely magazine it is too. The little piece looks lovely in situ, thank you again.”

Elaine, The Consultancy

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@amandalifestyle

“It has made me think about what you are eating”

At New Year many people decide to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Including fruit and vegetables in your diet as well as being more physically active is a good way of maintaining a healthy weight.

In Sefton, the friendly team of NHS Food and Health Workers (pictured) run many free healthy eating and weight management courses throughout the area. Their six-week weight management sessions are always popular with clients. Here’s what some of them had to say about the courses...

Tess from Crosby said: “I have really enjoyed the course and I’ve learnt a lot.

Now I know how to put it all into practice.”

Husband and wife, Kathryn and John, decided it was time to tackle their waistlines and after completing the six-week session they lost one stone and several inches between them.

John said: “Fran, the Food and Health Worker leading the course, has got it just right with the type of information she gives and we have a laugh - which is important.” The couple enjoyed the course so much they recommended it to friends who booked onto the next session.

Brenda said: “I have enjoyed learning about portion sizes but what Fran said about takeaways has made me think about what you are eating.”

If you would like to join one of the Food and Health Workers weight management sessions ready to shed the pounds for the spring, or go on their cook and eat sessions, then contact Healthy Sefton on 0300 100 1000.

Taking a few healthy precautions during winter is important to keep you well. In Sefton, there are services to keep you fit and active, and are

accessed through Healthy Sefton. By calling 0300 100 1000 you will be directed to activities and teams who can keep you and your family on track this winter. The number is available 8am to 8pm every day, as well as Bank Holidays. Read about two services that can make it a happy New Year.

“SATINS has changed my life, it helped talking to someone”

Most people enjoy a drink or two at New Year but sometimes people drink at levels that can be harmful. SATINS (Sefton Alcohol Treatment and Intervention Nursing Service) is one of the alcohol teams that can help people with alcohol -related problems.

They are a dedicated team who see clients in community venues once they have received a referral from a health

professional – usually a GP. Clients stay with SATINS for as long as necessary and have helped hundreds of Sefton residents to cope with their drinking. Graham, from Bootle, is one of them. Recalling when he used to drink every day Graham says: “I knew that a four-can of beer at the weekend wouldn’t stay at that. I drank from when I woke up to when I fell asleep. I did that for about three

years after suffering with depression at work.”

But then he found help with SATINS. “Having someone to talk to has helped me. Going to SATINS has changed my life and now I keep myself busy,” he says.

Graham has plans for

his future and aims to start a place for people who have overcome alcohol-related issues.

“I want to create a safe environment for people to meet. From my own experience I know how important it is to go somewhere to share what’s been going on in your life.” You can be referred in to SATINS by your GP or any other health professional. Ring Healthy Sefton for a free unit calculator.

Journalist:

DESPERATE SCOUSEWIVES’ STAR LAUNCHES CITY

COLLEGE’S NEW GRADUATE SALON

MODEL AMANDA

HARRINGTON

OFFICIALLY

OPENED LIVERPOOL

COMMUNITY

COLLEGE’S NEW GRADUATE ACADEMY

SALON IN LIVERPOOL CITY CENTRE.

beauty students and industry professionals.

Guests at the glamorous launch were treated to champagne on arrival, luxury goodie bags, and complimentary treatments.

In partnership with Francesco Hairdressing Group, Wella and Paul Mitchell, the Salon will offer a wide range of the latest hair and beauty treatments and professional products at affordable prices.

Ruth Cooper, Graduate Academy Salon Manager said: “The College has invested more than £80,000 in the new Salon to ensure it’s equipped with the highest quality kit and facilities for the students to work with and for our clients to enjoy. The Salon will provide our students with a fantastic commercial working environment which will enable them to gain invaluable experience and skills to prepare them for the world of work and succeed in the industry.”

Hairdressing brand Mother has joined forces with Help for Heroes to help our troops returning from abroad by donating 20% of every ebay sale of its hair styler.

The Mother hair straightener is the first in the UK to offer dual styling plates for long and short hair. Its unique design utilises Titanium for perfect smooth styling and some very clever heat covers complement the set.

The hair straightener is quickly becoming popular with hair stylists as it removes the need for different size styler’s for different clients. Hair salon owner Tricia explains “In the salon nowadays we need hair irons that can work alongside treatments like Kera straight. This requires that we use a hair straightener that’s goes over 200 degrees the Mother Styler meets that need heating to 230 degrees quickly. What I also like about are the titanium plates I am real fan for how smooth they go through my client’s hair and I can change them to suit different lengths and styles”.

So if you want to get your hands on a fantastic hair straightener as a gift or to replace that tired old one you may have well consider the Mother Straightener with also the added bonus of giving to good cause.

Offer Expires: 31st January 2013

Contact: Brett@motherhair.com

Company Information: Mother Hair, Bradford, BD5 5EA, West Yorkshire, 01274 299772

Ebay URLs

www.ebay.co.uk/itm/200841483404

Mother Hair Straightener Exclusive 1st

Multi Titanium Styler *20% To Charity

LIVERPOOL IS ON THE ROAD TO A HEALTHIER FUTURE, AS MORE AND MORE LOCAL PEOPLE HOP ON THEIR BIKES.

New figures show that there has been a 20 per cent increase in the number of journeys made by bicycle in Liverpool over the past year. It means the city is already exceeding the target of 12 per cent set for 2011-15 in the Third Local Transport Plan for Merseyside

Two people who have benefited from the city’s cycling programme are 35-year Melanie Connell from Aigburth and her nine-year-old son Nat. Melanie had given up cycling at 12, but got back into it during Bike Week 2011, when she took part in a guided ride from the Pier Head to the Gormley statues on Crosby beach.

Melanie, who now rarely uses her car anymore, said: “The main advantages of cycling, as opposed to driving, are that it is good for my health and keeps costs down, with no petrol or parking costs. There is also the feel- good factor, knowing that you are helping the environment.

“And cycling with my son, instead

of sticking him in the car, keeps him engaged in journeys - for instance the trip of a few miles to visit family members - and helps keep him fit.”

Melanie has also taken advantage of the free Bikeability training offered in the city, through the TravelWise programme, funded by Liverpool Primary Care Trust. She can now fix punctures, replace gear and brake cables, and replace the drive chain, derailleur and freewheel. Not to be outdone, Nat has reached Bikeability Level 2, and can fix a puncture, adjust his brakes and carry out a safety check.

Amanda was joined by her friend and new salon owner Chris Johnson White at the new Salon, which is based on Duke and operated by College hair and

Miss England was in Liverpool scouting for Miss LMI 2013.

Before returning, she stopped at one of the city’s finest Indian restaurants, Mayur.

The owner, Arif, said “It was an absolute pleasure to have her at Mayur. Not only is Alize very beautiful but also incredibly intelligent and articulate. She was also very down to earth and had pictures taken with some diners”.

She enjoyed the grills from our tandoor, especially the salmon tikka, followed by the chicken korma.

Her absolute favourite, though, was the lemonara non alcoholic cocktail from our new cocktail menu. She saw it served on another table and her whole party ended up having it!

The final of LMI 2013 will take place feb 2013 in liverpool. Models and sponsors interested in getting involved, Contact through www.littlemissindependent.co.uk

ELLIE GOULDING

The incredible Ellie Goulding is one of British pop music’s most talented and versatile stars.

The ethereal pop of debut album Lights was followed by a beautiful cover of Elton John’s Your Song last Christmas.

But now the singer has surprised fans yet again with latest album Halcyon, which won rave reviews both here and in the US thanks to its darker, dancier feel - it even sees the star try her hand at dubstep and pull it off in style.

With new single Figure 8 and a UK tour imminent, as well as a hand in the Twilight hysteria thanks to her song Bittersweet being chosen for the final film’s soundtrack, it’s a wonder Ellie had time to talk to us... but she did.

So the album has gone down pretty well then... I am so pleased with the reaction to the album. Obviously I was nervous in the weeks running up to the release as it is a huge deal releasing the second album, espeically the second, but I have had the most incredible reaction to the point where it make s me really emotional. I put a lot into this record, a lot of personal stuff, and it makes me so excited to share it with everyone, and it has had the msot amazing reviews so I am really pleased.

You surprised people yet again by going much deeper into dance music this time, with the dubstep experiment. That must have been fun?

I have always had a real affinity with electronic music and dance music. It’s something I have never been able to shake off. I just love it so much. I knew this was going to have a certain feel - it wasn’t going to be a folk record! I wasn’t really thinking about whether iw anted or needed to do a certain kind of sound. People keep saying they don’t know where I will go next which is amazing.

How do you go about physically writing music if you don’t plan direction and so on?

I follow my instinct. I literally get into the studio, we start something on piano or guitar and it gradually builds into a song over however many days or a week or whatever. That for me is instinct and I go with that on everything.

The tour is obviously the next big thing on the horizon, are you focussing fully on that now?

We are gearing up for touring, we have rehearsals for a few weeks. But I am still promoting the album too, I still haven’t finished. I just got back from Australia and New zealand, went straight to Europe and now just back, kind of everywhere really. It’s been busy. So much so that at half four I have just managed to find time for my first food of the day!

What do you have in mind for the tour?

I want something ridiculous, I just don’t know what yet, I am still thinking about it. The main thing is i want it to sound incredible, I want it to sound out of this world.

What’s on the horizon apart from touring?

I never know what is going to happen so I play everything by ear. Figure 8 comes out then hopefully people like it. After that who knows.

You landed a pretty big spot - Bittersweet is on the soundtrack for the final Twilight film. Did you go to the premiere?

Twilight has gone huge for that song. I haven’t even released it but people are going mad for it. I keep getting calls and texts, people saying they have heard my song. I ask which one and they say the one from Twilight. I didn’t go to the premiere or anything but only because I was away - I probably would have gone along if i’d been here, to show my support for the film.

Are you a fan?

I am not like a diehard fan but I totally get why they are so ridiculously popular.

The soundtracks have always been pretty strong - was it nice to be asked?

Yes I was really happy for the song to be on the soundtrack just because the past ones have been so incredible, so amazing.

You don’t have to be an Olympian, or even an athlete, to have an active Lifestyle!

At Lifestyles Fitness Centres you can get involved in a number of activities to get your heart pumping and your face smiling.

The Government recommends 2.5 hours of exercise a week and here at Lifestyles we want you to get more active, more often with us! With 13 sites across Liverpool, that is easily done!

We have a variety of membership types to suit every pocket or you can just pay and go.

Call in to your nearest Lifestyles centre, visit www.liverpool.gov.uk/lifestyles or ring us on 0151 233 5433 for more information.

Ke$ha

GLOBAL SUPERSTAR KE$HA RELEASED HER SECOND ALBUM, WARRIOR LAST MONTH. THE FIRST SINGLE - DIE YOUNG.

Global superstar Ke$ha will be releasing her second album, WARRIOR, on December 3rd through Kemosabe/RCA Records. The first single “Die Young” will be out November 25th. Executive produced by Kemosabe Records head Dr. Luke, WARRIOR features tracks written by Ke$ha, as well as collaborations with producers, writers and musicians including, will.i.am, Max Martin, Benny Blanco, Cirkut, Bonnie McKee, Wayne Coyne, Iggy Pop, Patrick Carney, Ben Folds, Greg Kurstin, Kojak, Ammo, and Billboard.

The first single “Die Young” was co-written by Ke$ha, Nate Ruess from fun., Dr. Luke, Benny Blanco and Cirkut. There will be a 12 track standard version of the album and a 16 track deluxe edition. Additionally, there will be an exclusive version of the album that will be sold at www.keshasparty.com and will include a special bonus 5 song acoustic EP.

Says Ke$ha, “I am so excited to finally share WARRIOR with all of my amazing ANIMALS. I’ve been working for a year on this new record and have collaborated with some of my idols. This process has been long and intense and I couldn’t be more stoked to share this music. I hope with WARRIOR my fans get to know me in a much more raw and vulnerable way.”

Global superstar Ke$ha has taken the world by storm since the release of her debut album in Animal in 2010. That year she was declared Billboard's Hot 100 Artist and her smash debut single "TiK ToK" was named Billboard's #1 Hot 100 Song, was the most played song of that year, and was the biggest-selling digital track in the world. Ke$ha has had 6 consecutive Top 10 hits including three #1 singles: "TiK ToK", "Your Love Is My Drug" and "We R Who We R." Her debut album Animal has sold over 2.5 million units worldwide.

Ke$ha has toured the world, playing over 200 live shows in support of Animal and its companion album Cannibal. She took home the MTV EMA for Best New Act in November 2010 and was nominated for 2 American Music Awards, 3 MTV VMA Awards and 6 Billboard Awards. She has performed on dozens of television programs all over the world including MTV Europe Music Awards, Much Music Awards (Canada), Echo Awards (Germany), X Factor (Australia), American Music Awards, Billboard Awards, American Idol, Saturday Night Live and The Today Show Summer Concert Series.

She has over 21 million Facebook likes, over 3 million Twitter followers and over 300 million views on VEVO. She has sold over 24.5 million combined tracks and ringtones in the U.S alone and over 27.5 million worldwide to date. Ke$ha is an international powerhouse, Animal has been certified Gold, Platinum or multiPlatinum in 15 markets (including Platinum in the United States) and was the biggest selling debut album from an international female in 2010 in the UK. Ke$ha is the global ambassador for Casio Baby G and was recently named the first global ambassador for Humane Society International.

GOLDIE

What have you been up to since the X Factor?

There’s been television work for ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 as well as a lot of gigs and appearances in clubs. It’s all been great fun, but if I had to pick a highlight for sheer entertainment value alone it would be going on Celebrity Juice – a madhouse!

A new idea I’ve developed is my health regime, which I’ve called “Chijuvenation”. It draws on my

and fuses it with the other exercise regimes I’m qualified in, combined with diet and lifestyle advice, to improve people’s health and wellbeing.

But I’ve also had to remember that I’m a mum too and make sure I’ve had time for the family.

Do you regret the way you left? No regrets at all. I was happy with what I had achieved and satisfied that I had got so far, because I had never expected that level of success when I entered the competition. I had hoped that I could use it as a platform for bringing my health regime to a wider public and benefit people that way. And, by and large, that has happened.

How did it change your life appearing on the show?

I don’t think being on the show has changed me much as a person. Certainly, people tell me I’m just the same as before! I’ve always liked to sing and dance, and design my clothes and jewellery and stuff like that, even before I went on X Factor. But I get a lot of people of all ages coming up to me to say hello and tell me that they enjoyed watching me - and that’s good, because I like to make people happy. After all, what’s the point of going on TV if you can’t bring some fun and enjoyment to people? So it’s very satisfying for me, and I feel good about it.

Do you still keep in touch with the judges?

Ha! I’ve been trying to interest them in my Chijuvenation regime – I think some of them might need it; mentioning no names of course! The show’s producers have been in touch now and again over the past year, and I’ve done some filming for them recently. Hopefully that will be on TV soon.

What do you love about Liverpool?

I like the people because they are really stylish and are always very open and welcoming. And Liverpool has the oldest Chinatown in the UK, so for me that makes it a special place as it has extended a welcome to

people from Hong Kong and China for generations now.

What would you like to achieve in 2013

I hope I can carry on in the entertainment industry if it makes people happy.

Also, I hope I can develop my Chijuvenation programme further and be able to encourage people to be healthier. I’d like to develop it as a business; I spent years as a tai chi instructor, so I know people are keen to improve their health and well-being and to reduce their stress levels. I’ve been speaking to some producers about doing some TV programmes, a kind of “reality fitness” programme, and I hope I can take this forward.

It’s also been suggested I could be a brand ambassador for some healthy lifestyle products and do some advertising work in that area, and I’d like to explore that further too. Another area I’d like to explore further in 2013 is doing more work for charity. We all should give something back when we can.

Tell us about the health programme you are working on I call it “Chijuvenation”, which reflects the fact that it is a health regimen that is a mixture of East and West, combing tai chi and chi kung, which are proven to improve health and lower stress levels, with the western exercise methods I’m qualified to teach, together with diet and lifestyle advice.

The point of it all is to use a holistic approach to enable people to feel fitter and look better without resorting to expensive surgery or Botox or any other extreme methods. And it’s something people can feel comfortable practising in their own home – no need for expensive equipment. I’m 50 in a few months, and I’m pleased to have managed to stay looking fit and well naturally, and I just want to share my approach with other people.

You will be presenting BEST PERSONALITY at the Liverpool Lifestyle Awards, what are you looking forward to about the evening?

The glamour and the atmosphere, and meeting all those personalities! Let’s face it, Liverpool produces more personalities than any other city in the world, and it will be great to join an event with so many of them there!

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We also have a wide range of watches, D&G, Superdry, Accurist, Police, Sekonda

Pucker up!

Tell us about Lip Couture Lip Couture first opened it’s doors just 1 year ago in January 2012. I had started working with FakeBake after winning ‘Colleen’s Real Women’ and modelling for the brand, getting into setting my own spray tan business. From this I got into semi-permanent makeup. The reason behind its set up, was an answer to me having to travel to clinics all over the North West to carry out my Semi-permanent make up procedures. Having a baby coupled with all the travelling was just too difficult, so I decided to take the plunge and open my own shop, where people would travel to me. I was a little worried that people would not want to travel, but with me now having regular clients come from as far as Newcastle, Glasgow and even Dublin, luckily it was all worth while. Then I was able to offer clients the ‘all round’ treatments, becoming know as ‘Liverpools premiere one-stop salon’.

What do you offer

We offer everything from hair, makeup, tanning, nails, beauty, botox, fillers, teeth-whitening, russian hair extensions and also customised clothing!

What type of clients do you attract

We attract all kinds of clients but because of the look of the salon and our approach to it, it is all about the gorgeous & glam individual (think a bit of sparkle to everything we do).

………’Lip Couture’ just seemed perfect.

How do you incorporate Scouseworld with Lip Couture Scouseworld is the next step and platform to take ‘Lip Coutures’ one-stop model globalJ We are currently re-vamping it to incorporate a celebs range which I cannot mention yet ;)

You juggle so much, how do you manage I’ve always been a juggler of things. From just 16 I always had 2 or more jobs, and people always remember me for that. I just get bored if I’m doing nothing. You should see me round the xmas break. The first day of rest im fine, then by the second I’m itching to be out and about doing things. As soon as I wake up in the morning my mind is ticking thinking of all kinds of ideas, im just non-stop.

What made you set it up

Online is the way forward and increasingly people are choosing online over highstreet to do their shopping. Like me, I never used to buy online but this xmas just gone, I did around 70% of my shopping online!

What is your biggest achievement to date

I’d say when I won Coleens Real Women over all those thousands of applicants to end up working with an International brand like FakeBake. It enabled me to travel to countries like Ibiza, Vegas and even Thailand to do shoots with some of the worlds best photographers………………..despite being curvy and just 5’5. That and of course giving birth to my son Reiss who is my absolute world! Motherhood is one of the most difficult jobs ive ever done and now have great respect for all mothers!

What is your favourite service you offer I will of course be biased, but the service I love is the one I do which is Liverpool’s fastest growing treatment being offered……..semi-permanent make up. It is this that rapidly launched the shop just 12 months ago, because whilst the paint was still wet, we had Lime Pictures film crew and the cast of Desperate Scousewives in their filming a scene where I tattooed one of the girls of the programme, so it’s been this service that’s got the shop the name it has, and everything else has just helped make the shop an all round success.

Is there a story behind the name I have an obsession with Juicy Couture, yes people may call me a chav but I adore my comfy lounge wear and wanted something related to this…………. then obviously with myself doing the ‘lip tattooing’ we do ‘lip fillers’ and we do some bits of fashion……………

Are you looking forward to the Lifestle Awards

I cannot wait for the Lifestyle awards. Last years awards were amazing! And hopefully we will be up for and even win one. Fingers crossed.

What do you want to conquer in 2013?

I want to conquer the Semi-Permanent makeup world and build Lip Couture to be the no. 1 place to come for this treatment AND the personalised and custom-made items world………………and involve my creative talented family and friends in doing this.

How did you get involved with Lauren?

We started selling her Dreamrollers as there was a demand for the product in the shop and online, and through a friend became good friends with a number of the LaurensWay team. They then asked us to work closely with them at their very successful stalls at all the Beautyshows across the country. She is working with us at everyone, and we’ve got on well ever since. Shes been wearing a few of our Scouseworld dresses recently aswell, designed by the fabulous Neil Paul Cooper so its all good that shes happy to support us in anyway possible. Shes a lovely, stunning girl and doesn’t deserve any bad press she gets!

Wirral fashion blogger with a passion for fashion

This month Liv Stringer Vintage fashion addict and blogger (www.filthfashion.tumblr.com) from the Wirral shares her fashion finds and must haves for the up coming season.

This winter I cannot live without my 'flatforms'. As I work in Chester city centre, full of cobbled streets, wearing heels everyday is a nightmare. Being a shopaholic I roam the high street daily and the flatforms in Office's shop window caught my eye. Instant buy.

I love how they are accessible for any outfit, any occasion whether dressy or casual and not forgetting ridiculously comfy! Flatforms originated from Creepers which were the thing to have in the late 1950's and they are now in all the shops reinvented with a modern twist. This is one of the reasons why I love vintage clothing as fashion always comes back around, never dating. One persons old clothes is anothers mega new find.

Having just been to Mint Festival in Leeds they were the perfect shoes to wear for dancing all day and night. They are great for nights out where you don't want to wear heels or trainers. For the festival to keep it casual I teamed mine with an old over sized black Adidas jumper I got from Asos Marketplace- my new addiction. They give you height without being an average heeled shoe. My sister has a pair of Underground triple sole creepers which are amazing, they are so out there and quirky but still feminine. I like clothing and accessories that are different and flatforms are definitely quirky. If you want to stand out with your footwear check out my new love of shoes as a girl can never have too many... (www.office.co.uk)

January Rejuvenation

January is the time of the year for New Year¹s resolutions, detoxing and for making yourself feel good again. What better way to treat both the body and mind than with some beautiful products full of fresh ingredients from Lush... to help you feel rejuvenated and ready totake on the year.

The freshest de-toxing ingredients...

BB Seaweed (£5.95) is a relaxing and reviving, mineral-rich facemask to cleanse, soften and beautify all skin types. This blend, inspired by the sea, contains fresh and nutritious seaweed and seaweed absolute. Also with cleansing kaolin, antiseptic honey, calming aloe vera and rose absolute, this gorgeous facemask will clean the skin and leave your face feeling new. Directions: avoiding the eye area, apply to clean skin, leave for five to ten minutes and then rinse. Lush facemasks are so fresh and preservative free they must be kept in the fridge and used within 3 weeks.

For a unique Spa experience...

If you¹d prefer to treat yourself and have a Lush SPA treatment, Validation Facial (£75.00) is a great choice to not only leave your skin looking and feeling fantastic - it will also work on your frame of mind. Choosing from the right selection of Lush¹s natural skincare products for your skin type, sit back and relax as our therapists take you on a surreal journey of self-discovery, using little techniques to tap into the sub-conscious through the element of touch, sound and smell. You will be left feeling validated and renewed. Available at all Lush SPA¹s.

Music for the mind...

CD¹s are available to buy, priced at £10.00, with music from each SPA treatment so you can recreate an oasis of tranquility in the comfort of your own home. Simon Emmerson the leading light in both The Imagined Village and Afro Celt Sound System and Lush Co-Founder and Product Inventor, Mark Constantine OBE, have combined a love of folk music traditions and bird song to create a unique musical experience.

Customers wishing to book a LUSH Spa treatment should call 0151 708 1843.

READER OFFER!

Award winning Medi Spa, DestinationSkin, recently opened their 26th clinic in Chester. A favourite of celebrities including Jourdan Dunn, Alexandra Burke, Heidi Range and Sarah Parrish, DestinationSkin are celebrating their new clinic by offering readers up to 50% off selected courses’ and a free facial on their first visit.

DestinationSkin is a national chain of 26 registered clinics specialising in non-invasive, advanced technological treatments for anti- ageing, permanent hair reduction and skin concerns. Their doctors, nurses and expert practitioners offer a discreet, approachable and reassuring personal service, tailored to individual client needs in fully equipped, private treatment rooms.

Their Services

DestinationSkin’s extensive services range from IPL and laser hair removal, skin peels and resurfacing, acne to anti-ageing treatments, anti-ageing injectables, teeth whitening, permanent make-up and cellulite laser treatments all performed by expert practitioners. With over 10 years experience in aesthetic beauty and 1 million treatments performed, DestinationSkin is a safe, well regulated, professional skin clinic company that you can trust absolutely.

The Offer

This great offer is available to those over 18 years of age and is redeemable in the Chester clinic- 9 Mollington Grange, Parkgate Road, CH1 6NP. The offer does not include semi- permanent make up or teeth whitening.

How to Claim

Simply make your appointment at DestinationSkin in Chester by calling 0800 644 0016 and quoting the offer – Chester reader offer. Then bring this copy of the newspaper with you when you arrive for your appointment.

AWARD-WINNING BOOKS IN THE FRAME

CALLINGall

bookworms! The Specsavers National Book Awards 2012 winners have been announced and to celebrate, Specsavers stores across Liverpool are offering all Liverpool Lifestyle readers the chance to win the 10 winning titles from each of this year’s categories.

The lucky competition winner will also receive a Specsavers designer eyewear voucher worth £150 so you can look stylish while enjoying your favourite new reads.

The National Book Awards showcase the best in homegrown and international writing. This year’s star-studded ceremony in London saw shortlisted authors including Clare Balding, Gok Wan and Mary Berry walk the red carpet at London’s exclusive Mandarin Oriental Hotel.

The category winners were announced on Boxing Day, Tuesday 26 December. Visit www.nationalbookawards.co.uk for more details.

Email editor@lifestylemonthly.co.uk with the word SPECSAVER in the subject box with your name, address and details.

BEN OSU......

on his way to the top

Tell us how you got into interviewing

I’ve always been a performer and liked to be out front but I never knew what it actually was that I wanted to do. I tried my hand and many things; singing, acting dance and I was OK at all of them and would have got better had I given myself the chance. An opportunity came up with Liverpool Live, they were developing and online TV site so I just messaged them and said if they ever need a presenter then to let me know. I’ve found that If you don’t ask, you don’t get and then a few weeks later they through me in at the deep end, interviewing me and asking me to do an unplanned interview. I loved it.

What do you love about your job?

I just love the buzz of it. No two interviews are the same. It’s very varied, so for four days last year we chased the giants around the city – non-stop interviews and links and getting in the way of the likes of the BBC and Granada. When we interviewed Richard Branson we must have been waiting for about 2 hours for the interview. We weren’t scheduled in, so it was just by chance that we got it.

Who is the most interesting person you have interviewed They have all been interesting. I would say that the most memorable one has been with John Bishop at the GEC (Global Entrepreneurship Congress) in March. We caught up with him and it just went to pot, he basically took the micky out of us calling us a porn channel, it was completely out of our hands. We managed to claw it back though and speak to him properly, but he’s a comedian and we expected him and wanted him to do what he did. I’ve also interviewed Martin Luther King III which again was really cool – such an inspirational guy.

Who inspires you?

The people that I look up to within the industry are people like JayZ, Simon Cowell and Oprah Winfrey; cheese I know. I’ve always surrounded myself with good people so I’ve picked up certain skills and traits along the way. I suppose they’ve inspired me. Also the clichés like my mum and nan who have always worked and tried their hardest to provide.

What has had the biggest impact on your career I would say bringing the MOBO Awards to the city in 2010 is what has set me apart from everyone else. I was recognised nationally and still am. The event brought in over £5M worth of revenue into the city for that one night, so that’s a line that I continuously repeat. I’m also going to say the Olympic Torch Relay back in June, that was a big event and I still have the torch and uniform. I was chosen to run for my work with the MOBO Awards and other community based work that I have been doing since I was 12.

Where do you see yourself in 2013

2013 is very, very exciting. I have been working a lot with Esco Williams and he has a very exciting year ahead of him which I’m going to be a part of. There's a new project I’m working on which will involve a lot of travelling to places like New York and Canada – just your average year I suppose.

Who do you want to interview

Beyoncé, Jay Z, Simon Cowell, Oprah, Whoopi Goldberg the list is endless but also do some community focused TV that looks at real issues affecting real people.

What tips have you picked up along the way

Always research you subject, never be afraid to ask otherwise you won’t get. Be confident but not arrogant. Always have a plan, several in fact.

0151 236 1999

The Living Room - 15 Victoria Street - Liverpool -L2 5QS

Oh I love The Living Room. The grand entrance up the stairs reminds me of the large finer establishments in London's West End. Once inside you are gestured to sit in the dining room. The chairs are large and firm and remind me of a prop from an Agatha Christie film. The decor is wamr and inviting and it was a delight to have lunch there.

book online at: www.geckorestaurants.co.uk

I went with a couple of friends at lunchtime, we were the first guest to arrive but by the time our starter of Thai fish cakes, mussels of the day and Teriyaki chicken skewers had arrived the restaurant was over half full. everything about the starter was perfect, from the arrangement on the plate, the temperature of the food and most importantly the taste. Then onto mains. I opted for macaroni cheese which came in a lovely oven pot and was asbolutely delicious on a cold winter's day. It provided the ultimate comforting lunch. My friends had the pan friend sea bass served with orange scented broccoli and lentil casserole, and the seafood linguine. Their plates were cleaned with little effort and a very satisfying meal was had by us all. There was a short delay while we waited for our desert, I think the staff hadn't anticipated being so popular, but we were happy to have the time to digest our previous course. To finish off a delightful meal, it had to be the sticky toffee pudding and vanilla ice cream for me. A delightful winter warmer. My friends had the chocolate truffle cake with vanilla ice cream and crushed honeycomb and the cocnut and passion fruit creme brulee.

This was my second visit to eat at the Living Room. While I have been a frequent visitor of their bar and a fan of their cocktails on a Saturday night for many years, the last time I ate there was a couple of years ago and I had been so unimpressed I hadn't wanted to return. But I am glad I did. I was pleasantly surprised by the simple yet delicious menu. Everything was right, down to the service and I would happily recommend it to friends and colleagues now.

Gecko is the latest venture for restauranter Chris Hamblin hoping to repeat the success of Savinas on Duke Street and neighbouring Buffalo Jacks and Coffee Crew.

Upon entering the large open plan space i immediately felt as if I was on holiday in Cyprus. The music, the soft furnishing and and decor hit the mediterranean spot perfectly. The menu complimented the style perfectly We attended the launch party with the kids and rather than prop up the bar we took residence in a booth and were given waitress service. I suggested a few dishes to sample the menu, expecting a few nibbles on a plate but boy was I wrong! Plate after plate was delivered to the table until there was barely room for the cutlery!

There really is so much to choose from and the starters alone could have filled us to the brim - there are greek meze, a whole section dedicated to cheeses, charcuterie. There are salads, kebabs, pastas, pizzas, meats cooked on the grill, salsas, cous cous.

The portions were enormous, the prices are more than reasonable and a fantastic night out is absolutely guaranteed. Best of luck to Chris and his fabulous team.

Celebrity chef Aldo Zilli

I first met Aldo Zilli when I was working for Carlton Food Network in London in the late 1990s. Aldo engulfed me in a big bear hug when I recounted the story of how we first met. That food channel launched my career," he said with his famous wide grin and thick Italian accent. He meant of course that it launched his status into celebrity land, for Aldo has been cooking since he was 5 years old.

Aldo has partnered with San Carlo to be appointed as their Chef Consilere. I was fortunate to be invited along to sample some of his signature dishes at the castle Street restaurant. “I loveLiverpool,” he says Aldo has sold his famous Zilli Fish restaurant in London where he made his name as a seafood chef. The dishes he served us were a work of art in the way they tatsed as well as how they looked. There was a gorgeous mackerel pate, a seafood paaella with lobster, monkfish and oozing with flavour. The beetroot risotto was served with sweet roasted scallops and truffle oil. The dishes were delightful, while I am not a big seafood lover I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the lunch. Of course the atmosphere at San carlo helped and being served up by of the most animated chefs in the industry was a huge bonus and made my day.

Liverpool nightlife crowd come out in numbers for Bierkeller.

The new Bierkeller Entertainment Complex opened last month in the heart of Liverpool One. The Bavarian drinking and dining experience like no other, the Bierkeller, is a real piece of Bavaria in the heart of Liverpool city centre. With the finest selection of draught German beers served in steins, by waiting staff in traditional clothing and serving hot authentic regional food.

Images by: Ian Fairbrother Inkline Pictures

Stavros Flatley AKA DEMI chats to Amanda Moss

It's been four years since British Cypriot father and son dance act Stavros Flatley warmed the nation with their comedy dance on Britain's Got Talent. But their popularity hasn't waned as they regular command performances for corporate and private parties all over the world. Their entry on BGT was only meant to be an afternoon out, a bit of a laugh even. Demi said, "It was just a bit of a joke, a tongue in cheek thing. It came as a complete shock when we got the reaction we did. We had never done anything like it before and we never told anyone we were going to audition."

Their meteoric rise to fame immediately afterwards, however has changed their lives. "Without a doubt" Demi said, "We have danced on yachets in Monaco, we've been all round the world. I couldnt' describe how amazing it has been."

Despite their success they remain grounded. To this day they do their own choreography and buy all their costumes in ASDA where he always finds something.

As his son, Lagi reached his milestone

16th birthday did they ever think about retiring?

"I did ask him if enough was enough and did he want to stop. But he isn't an idiot, he realises we are onto a good thing here especially in the current economy. while we never take anything for granted we think, wow, what a job! But of course if he ever gets fed up with it then of course we will stop."

Prior to their TV career they owned greek restaurants, Demi still has one within the family empire and still enjoys pizza and calamari. "If anyone thinks owning a restaurant is easy they are very much mistaken," he said, "It's really hard work."

Now thanks to his new career he can leave the restaurant in the hands of others while he travels with the family. "My wife and daughter come along with us as well. It's so nice."

Despite his dancing schedule however, Demi has not lost the weight he hoped. "I have always been portly," he laughed. "The weight won't shift. We are a very healthy family though. We are never ill." It must be the mediterranean magic in the dance.

3 Bedrooms (sleeps 8) - 2 bathrooms Ground floor maisonette with communal pool in rustic village 5 minute drive from Ayia Napa and waterpark.

THE RED CARPET

A round up of the hottest

parties in

town...

Merseytravel supports Community Police with Digital Skills.

An exclusive event hosted by Zoodle Events, held to celebrate the new website from Digital Marketing specialists Zoodle Media, was a great success at

Launch party for a new luxury boutique in Alderley Edge.

Honey Blackmoss recently attended an audition for Britain's Got Talent, she will find our next month how she got on.

The Baldy Birds with best friend Lisa Williams and their ponytails which will be donated to The Little Princess Trust who provides wigs and hair pieces for children who suffer hair loss due to cancer treatment.

and Lord Robert

Revealed Exhibition in Liverpool

The We Three Kings Charity Event supports The Steven Gerrard Foundation in seasonal style.

Neil Woods with Andrew Collinge.

Amanda Moss

Winston at the Bodies

One.

Esther McVey MP officially opened Wirral Wellness in West Kirby, at a VIP launch evening at the Caldy Clinic on Banks Road.

Dynamo at Leo Casino

Skinted V Minted

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Bowcock Senior Make Up Artist

pure and simple! The name itself was originally my fiancés musical AKA and still is and has a personal meaning behind that only he knows !

I myself have had a varied career spanning 20 years ranging from singer in a successful dance band to beauty therapist, premium beauty retail manager, dental coordinator, cosmetic surgical coordinator and lastly General Manager of an aesthetics clinic.

Every role I have played in my career has involved a level of PR & Social Media so, after gaining a wealth of experience it seemed the most natural thing to do!

At Planet Heaven PR we offer a tailored package to maximise the growth of your brand using various platforms on and off line and because of our years of experience in the fashion, cosmetic and music industry our clients can be confident in the knowledge that we will have the answers and direction to deliver great results.

FOLKS

The North West has a rich and plentiful musical history and the latest to emerge from it is Manchester’s ‘Folks’. The band was started by songwriter Michael Beasley and they have just finished recording their debut album ‘I see cathedrals’. Michael describes the albums sound as “A very English record with a hint of pshycadelia with just a little bit of California.

On listening the album radiates attitude, it holds your attention as the tracks run through upbeat and catchy tunes to songs with a grimy rock feel, it’s a diverse album. Folks are made up of Thom Fripp, Harry Gumery, Will Akroyd and Elliot Barlow and together they are ‘more than just players, they’re co-conspirators, catalysts, an essential part of Folks on-going alchemy’. The band are all from around Manchester and the northern music culture, along with influence from Michaels time living in San Francisco, have combined to create the bands driving sound.

The band is currently mid-way through a tour supporting the Top 20 indie group Band of Skulls. Folks have done many support roles in the past but say this current tour is their favourite: “It’s really great support slot, the audiences have been amazing, and as they’re Band of Skulls fans you know their discerning.” Folks recently played the O2 academy in Liverpool and praised the Scouse audience.

The northern band has a range of musical influences including Pink Floyd, Tim Buckley and the Beatles. Songwriter Michael also credits growing up in the North West as affecting the band’s sound: “Growing up where we did impacted us massively. I remember being in the car with my Dad and him telling me loads of stories of his roadie days and listening to all the old 60s band, his record collection was hugely influential.”

Folks are playing a 13 date tour with Band of Skulls and despite bouts of bugs travelling around the tour bus the boys are still loving every performance: “Performing felt really weird at first, obviously you have the adrenalin but it is very strange…that dissipates over time though. I think the best part has to be seeing people sing along with you, we did one very intimate gig and most people weren’t interested but one guy was singing along to every word, it was very emotional and almost upsetting in a way.” Folks conclude touring with band of Skulls in December and launch their headline tour in January.

Aries: Let’s start the year off with energy and enthusiasm, keep it up right through till December. Happiness and lots of travel is your focus.

Taurus: Old love and new love combines this month, so be prepared to open your heart again to this past admirer who loved you.

Gemini: It’s going to be a little bit of a hard start of the year, time to be a lot more positive and proactive with professional and personal life.

Cancer: It’s the month to come out of your shell and take action, keep the momentum going with your social life into the next few months.

Leo: Don’t let your pride before a fall slogan prevent the love from others. Work success will improve if you take the help offered to you.

Virgo: It time to learn from past mistakes and successes and improve your life for yourself, then others. Your love life is looking up and flourishing.

Libra: It is time for a rest after the last few months and takes stock. Don’t think about work; think about family and leisure time.

Scorpio: Money saved comes in as the year starts so no worry’s there, family rally around when needed. Good times ahead.

Sagittarius: I don’t have to say grow up, or live in the real world you already do. I want to say relax and have some fun life is to short.

Capricorn: Think about health as the year starts off there is only 24 hours in the day so rest work play. Trust your own instincts.

Aquarians: It’s time to think before action, you have got into trouble in the past without doing this. Huge decisions will be made.

Pisces: Relax and keep your mouth shut, the consequences could be heart felt if you don’t.Avoided with problems with silence.

As CLASSIC ROCK comes to the Liverpool Philharmonic musician Damian Darlington chats about his role in the iconic concert.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE?

I play the guitar and also am vocalist. I am the musical director on this show and have put it together, we have a 10 piece band and toegether we cover all the classic rock tunesACDC, Led Zepplin, Pink Floyd, the Eagles etc. People in their 40s and 50s will love it but then again we also appeal to a younger generation who have discovered classic rock.

TELL US ABOUT THE CLASSIC ROCK CONCERT

We try to play the top 10 rock classics of all times. It is a two and a half hour show.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO PREPARE?

Well I put this show together two years ago, it's the third toour I ahve done. But we come together to rehearse for about three months before.

YOU ARE TOURING THE COUNTRY WITH THIS?

Yes it is hard going on tour but it is what I

do. It can be a lot of fun too but very tiring. I always look forward to the Liverpool crowd though because they are always the most enthusiastic. They really get into it and I love the audience reaction in Liverpool.

YOU WERE PART OF THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD SHOW, TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE?

I joined in 1994 and played all round the world with the band for 17 years. I am have been very fortunate to play with one of their orginal members, Rick Wright at David Gilmour's 50th Birthday party. That was very special moment and happened when I least expected it.

WHAT IS YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION?

I always break them so it is best that i don't make them. I will be touring round Europe, USA and Canada so i just hope we continue with the success of the tour.

Creating exclusive weekends that will be remembered for all the right reasons…

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Electric at Harvey Nics Beauty bazaaar

I’m always a little nervous visiting a new hair salon .. today was no exception with my 4 year old in tow (Darling) combined with the fact I have a husband who likes my hair and well .. doesn't like change.

The hair salon in question is a brand new arrival in Liverpool called ELECTRIC HAIRDRESSING ... situated on the first floor of the rather sumptuous new Harvey Nichols Beauty Bazaar.in Liverpool One and I needn't have fretted ... Darling was greeted like one of the city's finest Wags and whisked off to get a manicure (now you don't find many places that are child-friendly and I didn't expect to find such a warm welcome in such a .. well .. posh surroundings. Meanwhile I supped a frothy cappucino while owner of ELECTRIC Mark Woolley and I chatted children (my five and his four).

Mark is a real breath of fresh air .. some people just exude positivity and he's one of them .... a yorkshire lad who made a name for himself opening a group of hair salons down south ... Brighton Reading London Oxford and now Liverpool. He was drawn to Liverpool because he's been a lifelong support of LFC and has trained his sons well too. "Harvey Nichols in London were impressed with my hairdressing product range also entitled ELECTRIC which became their best seller very quickly and I got a call to say 'do you fancy opening one of your salons in Liverpools brand New Harvey Nichols ... so I immediately said YES and here I am' He seems bowled over by Liverpool as a city. He immediately nb'd that I was nervous about my hair and he simply snipped the ends off and gave me a blowdry which somehow transformed me from bedraggled busy Mum to bouncy beauty (the man is clearly a wizard). You can see why Paloma Faith and Gok Wan won't go anywhere without Mark to style their hair and why friends Toploader do free gigs for his Xmas Party ... this man is just someone who makes you feel good to be around. Anyway ... take it from me ... you have to visit ELECTRIC - there's something about it thats different from Liverpool salons .. its a bit special and the whole atmosphere of the new Harvey Nichols Beauty Bazaar just makes you feel special - its pure escapism but its a must!

So many events over the past month from Radio City Live with KCC featuring Florida, to Russell & Case opening, Bierkeller opening, Sapphires & Dillinger’s on Bold St opening and Olympus Health Club & Spa adding some five star treatment to Hatton Garden. Here are a few shots of the nights along the way.

L.O.L

With comedian Sean Finn

Happy New Year to you all. I hope you all got what you wanted for Christmas, had enough food and drink because now it’s time to look forward to a new year with a laugh and a smile. And that’s what I am providing for you all now with the seasonal period now gone along with most of our bank balance. I am here to give you all my own “January Sales” on great comedy nights that don’t break the bank with some of the funniest acts around.

Wednesday 9th January sees The Laughter Factor at The Slaughterhouse as MC Paul Smith introduces headline acts trying out new material as well as some of the new faces on the circuit and only £5 entry and £3 concessions always a great night out , for more info call the booking line on 0151 227 5946 or www. laughterhousecomedy.com

Hot Water Comedy always brings you value for money every Friday Night and Every Sunday as upstairs at The Crown Temperature’s Rising on Fridays features some of the best up and coming & established acts from around the circuit as on the 11th Paul Smith Introduces Sam Avery supporting Pete Otway, Liam Bolton & Dana Alexander £5 entry and £2.50 NUS and these bargain nights also on the 18th and 25th , also “Testing The Water” events at the same venue every Sunday with £3 entry and £1.50 NUS more info at www.hotwatercomedy.co.uk

As for myself I’ve been involved in a film made by a local company of very talented people and local comedy legend, can’t give to much away but many years ago he was the man that pointed out that some chip shops had been damage by another European country, I on the other hand ive had to be dressed in a let’s just say unique outfit.

Now last month I told you how you could have a go at stand up comedy , are you the office joker the class clown or a clown prince or princess then some of the comedy clubs mentioned in this column offer courses to enable you to do just that, Hot Water Comedy offer courses that involve performing at one of their nights more info and dates including prices and availability go to www.hotwatercomedy.co.uk

The Liverpool Comedy Trust offers stand up courses for all ages such as the Stand Out course for 1118 year olds which gives a great opportunity which could see them perform at the annual comedy festival , plus they also have the Funny Business for adults. For more information visit: www.thecomedytrust.com or send an email to The Comedy Trust info@thecomedytrust.com

Well that’s it for this month next month I will be focusing on a gong show close to my heart plus theatre and arena events and also a word with a local comedian as well, wishing all of you a very happy 2013.

Twitter: @TheSeanFinn with #LifestyleLoL

Laughter on Liverpool

Merseyside’s Elizabeth Butler has passed the intensive three audition process to get a place at one of Europe’s most prestigious dance schools, the Central School of Ballet (CBS).

Elizabeth grew up in Whiston and begun dancing aged three when her mum enrolled her at the Elizabeth Hill Dance School in St Helens. From the first class Elizabeth was hooked and she has been dancing ever since: “Dance was really important to me from an early age, straight away I was taking part in festivals and competitions. It became serious for me very early on.”

Getting into CBS meant a big change for Elizabeth as she moved away from Liverpool and from home for the first time: “Moving to London was a massive transition. It was hard starting to do everything myself, like buying food and cleaning. And the tubes have taken a lot of getting used to!”

This year is the Central School of Ballets 30th anniversary, the school was founded by Ann Stannard and the late Christopher Gable CBE with the aim of prioritising both the artistry of dance and the importance of technique. CBS is now the only school in the country offering a BA degree in Professional Dance. The degree predominantly focuses on traditional dance mediums such as Ballet and Point, but in order to give the most exhaustive training disciplines such as Pilates, Singing, Drama, Spanish Dance and Choreography are also studied. Academic aspects are also included in the degree, Elizabeth has already completed assignments on the history of dance and choreography: “It’s a really well rounded course, we do a lot of self-reflection and evaluate what we’ve been learning and how were developing.”

The prestigious nature of the course stimulates a highly competitive environment, with intense pressure on students to secure a place in a ballet school after graduating. Elizabeth gave insight into the environment at CBS: “There aren’t many jobs or opportunities when we leave and so we all want to be constantly on top, you can feel the tension. But then as soon as we leave the class or step to the side they all just become my best friends again.”

CBS graduates have an impressive history of going on to perform in some of the top ballet companies in the world, with alumni dancing in schools such as English National Ballet and the Phoenix Dance Theatre.

In the past Elizabeth had the opportunity to dance with the American Ballet Theatre; this fuelled her passion for performing: “As soon as the music starts I forget about everything that’s going on, I just feel it and get lost in it.” After graduation Elizabeth dreams of working for a ballet company such as the Royal Ballet and most of all she looks forward to performing.

Amanda Moss talks to fashion designer...

Jemma Smith

Why did I become a fashion designer - My interest in fashion started from a young age, My mother ran a dressmaking business from her living room and would often use me as her mannequin. As I grew so did my interest for creating garments and dressing people. If a person looks good in what they are wearing it increases their confidence.

What inspires me - Most of my inspiration comes from nature and architecture but my eyes and ears are always open to anything that inspires.

What kind of clothes do I like to wearI like silhouettes that accentuates my waistline, we should always maximise our best features. I like the 1950s and 60s waist clinching look, figures like Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn are my fashion idols.

What is the beauty of bespoke clothing? Bespoke clothing is designed and personalised for YOU, made to the YOUR specific requirements and to fit YOUR body frame.

not complete because there is always tomorrow.

Where do you source your fabric I source my fabric from anywhere possible. On holiday in New York I found myself spending 2 hours in a fabric store. I seam to make a bee line for any fabric shop in sight. What is your favourite item of clothing favourite garment is a maxi dress I made two years ago. I call it my happy dress! I wear it so much, my daughter said "mum you need to make another favourite dress to give this one a rest!"

Where do you like to

So it’s 2013 what are you looking forward to this year - This year I am looking forward to my big fashion show in September that I have been planning for the last 12 months. It is predicted to be my biggest so far. I am really excited to showcase my next collection.

Resolutions - Apart from losing a few pounds, this year I aim to get to bed earlier and my other resolution is not to feel bad if all tasks are

Stylist to the stars Electra Formosa

The 24 year old star of the Disney Channel already has her own show, Get The Look and has an army of fans but is very grounded

She said, "My job is very cool, I get to work on lots of cool shows such as Violetta. I know I am lucky to style a lot of people."

So how did she manage to land one of the most envious jobs in television? "My mum was a make up artist on GMTV and I spent a lot of my childhood on film and TV sets, " Electra explained. "I kind of grew up around fashion and stylists and I developed a passion for it at a very early age."

At 16 she got her first big break from drama school when she landed a work experience role with How to Look Good Naked. Electra said, "I managed to work on the whole series of that and I learned a lot from it."

She describes her style at "pretty girlie" but she likes to try out different styles and doesn't like to be pigeon holed into one particular look. "As I get older I do tend to go for the cute dresses with the ankle socks though."

Having just spent Christmas is Australia with her family ("We are from all over the world," she laughed) and New Year's Eve in New York, Electra is looking forward to more filming in the new year in London on her show, Minnie and You. The premise is similarly a program to advise viewers on fashion tips, styling, beauty tips and lifestyle such as making BFF bracelets to give to your best friend or getting perfect nails which is inspired by the popular Mickey Mouse’s girlfriend, Minnie Mouse.

Electra said, " Who doesn't love Minnie Mouse and her polka dots and cute bows, that is a real fashion statement and she has been a style icon for generations."

As the new year gets underway Electra is hoping to launch her own range of clothing as well as continuing to present her TV shows.

She said, " I love doing what i do, I get stacks of fan mail so I must be doing something right. It is really good. And best of all I got to dress the boys from The Wizards of Waverly Place. They all have their own personal style but it was cool to hang out with them."

Electra has no plans to find a boyfriend, she says she has no time. "I amin a very happy place," She said before adding, "And I am so grateful for everything."

The Creepy Crawly Show paid a visit to Saxon Blackmoss' house last month. Ranger Steve presented a variety of lizards, bugs, beetles, snakes, scorpions and spiders to the partygoers.

Mum Amanda said, "It's tricky deciding what to give a 12 year old boy but his friends and him absolutely loved getting up close with the animals. It was very educational as well, I would definitely recommend it."

Children's party entertainers snake and reptile show covering Cheshire, Wirral, Liverpool, Merseyside, Warrington, Stockport, Knutsford, Manchester, North Shropshire, Wrexham, Flintshire, Denbeighshire and Conwy.

BEVERLY MACCA

You can find me on Twitter: @beverlymacca1 | Read my diary at: www.beverlymacca.blogspot.com

Happy New Year!

I hope you had a great Christmas and Santa‘s sack was full of what you wanted. I had a good time with family and friends.

Happy New Me too!

I decided to see if blondes have more fun, thanks to Karen at Malcolm Oliver hair I’ve been finding out. It’s been like a magnet for the men, I’ve been taken up the Wong Wei more than ever since going blonde.

I never tire of an all you can eat buffet though.

Have you all been making New Year resolutions? I bet most of them include losing weight and excercise. Well here’s the answermy Muffin Top n Cankle Workout. It is on offer at Pound Paradise, so be quick while stocks last. I’m told some celebs swear by it, even Fat Sue with the Smart car uses it.

Another popular product for dry lips this winter is our Vag butter. See you instore soon.

I’ve been busy doing some local radio at 7waves 92.1FM with Adam Siddorn. That studio has become a home from home. They always say they can tell when I’m in.

I even got head hunted before Christmas by Gourmet Coffee’s Andy and Dean. They had heard things about my customer service skills. Interview went well but went downhill once I started work. I couldn’t use the machinery. Tried to use the wooshy cream device but it was the wrong way and I got a wad of the boys cream in my face. I was shaking like Christopher Maloney’s nan opening her phone bill at the end of the day!

Right, that’s me finished for this month. Need to get myself geared up for the Evening With Bev on 22nd Feb at Gourmet Coffee and the Liverpool Lifestyle awards on 23rd Feb, it will be like when I won Pound Paradise top salesperson 2012 all over again. Hope 2013 is a good year for you all.

Lotsa Love Bev xxxx

THE WIRRAL KALEIDOSCOPE

with Ina Schmidt

200 guests enjoyed the "5Star Fashion Show in aid of British Red Cross" at the luxurious Hillbark Hotel end of November. Organised by Red Cross Patron and local Business Woman Ina Schmidt the event raised 3.700 pounds for the Red Cross. The show was supported by TRIP in Parkgate, ALIZ Vintage Chester, SMUDGE West Kirby and Opulence Bridalwear West Kirby.

The Glam Hut experience involves makeup, hairstyling, setup, photography and editing all completed by myself and occasionally members of my exclusive Glam Squad.

I love the idea of creating an amazing image allowing people to see their true beauty, highlighting unique features and creating confidence in people who lack it.

Patron of British Red Cross Ina Schmidt and Elizabeth Stringer

Photographer:

Happy New Year

Photograph by: Kevin Newbold

Studio for hire at: 4 Button Street, L2 6PS

the north West’s top lifestyle and business coach, darren lawrenson

2013 just another year? The best year yet? You decide?

Picture the moment, the opening night of Disney World, one of the greatest entertainment venues in the world, the place of dreams and magical experiences. A place that once you have been you never forget. A journalist turned to Walt Disney’s wife and said isn’t it a shame that “Walt isn’t here to see this, due to his death before the opening”. Without taking breath she turned to him and said “Its only because Walt saw this that you’re here”.

Walt had visualised how we wanted things to be then went about creating it. What do you see for 2013? How do you want the year to unfold. If 2012 didn’t work the way you wanted it to, what will you do different in 2013. The definition of insanity is to do the same thing and expect a different result. Now is a great time to commit to your goals and plans for the year ahead. The first thing to do is take a pen and piece of paper and answer this question. “If in 2013 I couldn’t fail, what would I attempt to achieve?

4 Great questions to ask yourself this coming year for reflection and direction:

1. What worked well in 2012 that i really should keep doing?

2. What worked ok that i need to do more of?

3. What do i need to start doing this year that i haven’t done before?

4. What do i need to stop doing?

Habits take 28 days to make and if we want to stop one habit like smoking we will replace it something else. So if you plan to stop doing something in 2012, chose what you will replace it with, it will make the process more controllable and doable.

Don’t wait for the lights to turn green start now, yes right now. Let’s get a move on and let’s get started. A journey of a 1000 miles starts with one step. Let’s take that step and make 2013 a real year to remember.

If you any questions or want to share your thoughts, please contact darren@dasala.co.uk

Hear Darren speak at our Confidence and Self Esteem Workshop in Feb 2013

Troll Abuse

With the growth of the Internet and Social Media, more and more people are behaving in a reckless and sometimes aggressive fashion by publishing offensive and menacing messages aimed at others (known as “trolling”). Some individuals are using the Internet as a weapon with the aim of causing injury and damage to another individual’s reputation or with the simple objective of causing menace.

In July 2012, Tom Daley of recent Olympic fame received a menacing Tweet from a 17 year old which made unkind references to Tom Daley’s father. The individual was subsequently arrested and received a warning by the Court for harassment.

This summer Katherine Jenkins was also the victim of a nasty Tweet, which effectively accused her of having an affair with David Beckham.

Social Media is also being used as a weapon to harass women with some communications being delivered by strangers. Anonymity sometimes acts as a fuel for some individuals who believe they can hide away without fear. The growing menace of Trolls is a poor reflection on society and certain individuals. However, the Law is there to protect the innocent and victims of such publications/ messages and anyone who suffers such abuse should seek legal advice as soon as possible, whilst keeping records of all messages delivered.

The Laws of Harassment provides some protection and certain sanctions such as fines and compensation maybe provided in certain circumstances. If extreme, then it could result in the perpetrator being provided with a custodial sentence.

The Law of Libel also provides protection to individuals who find that their reputation is being undermined and damaged by publications made through Social Media. Again, legal advice should be sought and records kept of all such communications. There are also legal ways and means of seeking disclosure from the ISP as to the details of the author of the offensive and/or libellous publications so as to reveal the identity of the Troll.

If you require any assistance then please contact IP lawyer Michael Sandys at Jackson&Canter QualitySolicitors on 0151 282 1700 or by email to: michaelsandys@qualitysolicitors.com

CRAIG PHILLIPS DIY expert

Hello and a Happy New Yeah Lifestyle readers!

Here we are, already into 2013, and I’m pleased to report that I have been as busy as ever over the festive period working on a variety of different projects. I continue to have a variety of different things on the go and it’s great to be able to work with so many different organisations and individuals.

For me, the festive period means one thing: Pantomime! This year I had the pleasure of being involved in Bradlington’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and playing the part of Gaston. This year was my seventh ‘panto’ and I had a great time with all the cast and crew of the production. For me, there is nothing more exciting than stepping on to the stage and I love to entertain the audience. I really hope that everyone had a great time at the performances and I can safely say that I enjoyed every minute of it. Off stage, I’m as busy as ever with my latest building project. I am currently working on a large scale conversion project, working throughout the slightly inclement weather we experienced in December. For me, the building work has been a perfect opportunity to use my fantastic clothing from the Swedish work wear brand, Blåkläder. Their expansive range is incredibly hard-wearing, looks great and comes with a series of guarantees that ensures they are strong enough to work as hard as you do. I find that good work wear is as important as my tools and I know that with Blåkläder, my clothing is safe, heavy duty and keeps me as warm and dry as possible. The new year is a great opportunity to begin new hobbies or activities, even to take up DIY projects in the home. This is something that I will most definitely be doing and I look forward to sharing all of my latest news with you in my next column. I hope that you all had the happiest of Christmases, with an exciting and prosperous new year already underway. I’m sure that 2013 is going to be another great year and I look forward to sharing it with you!

All the best, Craig.

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Flatpack Furniture

Everybody, at some time in their lives, will have purchased a flat-pack furniture item and had trouble putting it together. By following just a couple of basic tips it should make life easy and more enjoyable when it comes to erecting flat packs!

STAGE ONE

First and foremost, always check that all the parts are included in the package. Empty them all out and cross check them with items list on the front page of the instructions. If any items are missing do not attempt to assemble it, just take it straight back to the shop.

Read all of the instructions carefully and start to lay out all items in the order of the instructions and check you have all the relevant tools required.

STAGE TWO

Start to put the sections of your flat-pack together following each stage of the instructions, only as a dry run at this point. Even if the instructions say to glue sections together I would always recommend that you trial the assembly first until you are 100% happy with it. Then, take the item apart and glue all joints required. If you do make a mistake with glue it may ruin the entire item and the shop probably won’t take it back!

One thing to remember when you have successfully finished putting your unit together; don’t be to alarmed if you still have some fixings left over. Some manufactures will supply a standard bag of fixings which cater for a number of units. For example, you may have purchased a 3 drawer unit and the bag of fixings are for both a 3 drawer and 5 drawer unit and you will be left with spare screws plugs so just save them as extras.

TOOLS/MATERIALS:

Flatpack item with all fixings and instructions

Glue

Cordless drill & screw driver bits Hammer Alan keys

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property news

WORK BEGINS AT EDGE

The £200 million refurbishment and extension of Edge Lane Retail Park officially takes shape with the promise of 4,000 jobs for the city.

It includes new shops, restaurants and leisure units. There will also be extensive parking and cycle spaces and public realm investment.

The scheme was given the goahead by Government Office for the North West last year, but the difficult economic climate has held back the start of work.

Now, following top-level talks between Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson and Derwent Holdings Chairman Albert Gubay, fresh momentum has been breathed into the scheme, which is set to transform the key eastern gateway into the city centre.

The start of work at Edge Lane Retail Park provides a further boost to regeneration in Liverpool. A new audit has found that development continues apace in the city, despite the recession, with almost £800 million worth of regeneration schemes ongoing.

Edge Lane could also benefit the city in other ways because Derwent Holdings is part of the substantial group of companies that Albert Gubay has arranged to be passed to The Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation. The charity will donate to a wide range of UK charitable causes.

Liverpool City Council’s Director for Regeneration, Nick Kavanagh, said: “In times of austerity, it’s more important than ever that we work creatively with the private sector and continue to build confidence in Liverpool as the place to do business. We’ve been working closely with Derwent to make sure these exciting plans come to fruition, and it’s fantastic news that this work is now paying off.

LIVERPOOL’S MOST ANTICIPATED APARTMENT BUILDING SET FOR LAUNCH

Apartments in one of the city centre’s most long-awaited developments – West Tower – are set to launch for sale in January, following a new wave of investment.

Home to the Panoramic restaurant, West Tower was built by Beetham in 2007 but the majority of the building’s 123 two-bedroom apartments never made it to the market when the property developer went into administration.

Now, London-based Delph Property Group has bought the scheme and is refurbishing the apartments to an as new condition before launching them for sale in the new year.

As Liverpool’s tallest building, the 40-storey West Tower offers some of the most amazing panoramic views over all of Liverpool and the Mersey, stretching as far as Snowdonia – and all the apartments have floor-toceiling windows to make the most of it.

The apartments will be priced from £130,000 and, in addition to the views, have a very high specification including modern bespoke kitchens, two contemporary bathrooms, wooden flooring and air conditioning.

To register your interest and be one of the first to view the show apartment when it launches in January, simply call the sales office on 0151 236 8800 or visit www.westtowerliverpool.com.

LANDLORDS INVITED TO DIP IN THE POOL

• Landlords of empty homes can now advertise their properties on Property Pool Plus.

• Will help landlords reach thousands of potential new tenants.

• Part of ‘10 point pledge’ to support landlords and bring empty homes back into use.

OWNERS of vacant properties in Liverpool are being offered extra support to help them attract new tenants.

Liverpool City Council is rolling out a new incentive for landlords, giving them the chance to advertise their properties onProperty Pool Plus.

The service allows local people who are looking for affordable housing in the area to see what properties are available, and express an interest in selecting a suitable new home. The system is used by Liverpool, Halton, Knowsley, Sefton, and Wirral Councils, and over 20 housing associations, to advertise and let their vacant properties.

Now, by opening up Property Pool Plus to private landlords, the council hopes to give them a helping hand in letting thousands more people know that their properties are available

for rent. It also means residents who are registered on the system will have a wider choice of available accommodation, from both the social and private rented market. The new incentive – which supports the drive to bring empty homes across Liverpool back into use

People can access Property Pool Plus in a number of ways, including the website www.propertypoolplus.org. uk, or by visiting a local housing office or One Stop Shop. They can also submit a bid for a property by calling the 24 hour automated number (0300 777 3022), by using the texting service (07537 402 602), or through their TV (Virgin Media and Sky customers).

PCM

3 BED FITTED KITCHEN, GARDEN PARKING BOOTLE L20

Available

2 DOUBLE BED FITTED KITCHEN GCH WAVERTREE L15

Available to LET £400 PCM Available to LET £650-800 PCM

4 X 2 BED APT PARKING, DG / GCH SOUTHPORT PR9

3 DOUBLE BED, GCH PATIO TO REAR WALTON L4

Available to LET £500 PCM

18X1 BED STUDENT APT F/F, ENSUITE, BILLS INC, OPP SEFTON PARK AIGBURTH L17

Available to LET £475 PCM

3 BED LAMINATE FLOORING DG / GCH BOOTLE L21

2 BED, GROUND FLAT DG / GCH LITHERLAND L21 1 DOUBLE BED STUDIO, F/F, BILLS INC ORRELL PARK L9 Available to LET £300 PCM

Available to LET £495 PM

2 DOUBLE BED MODERN KITCHEN GCH GARSTON L19

PCM

4 DOUBLE BED, NEW KITCHEN, LAMINATE FLOORING , DG/GCH BOOTLE L20

a workshop on behalf of 4 Button Street - Liverpool - L2 6PS with leadership and life coach Darren Lawrenson Tuesday 12 February 2013 6pm-8pm

Members £25

Non Members £30 payment in advance, limited to 25 places.

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Liverpool Lifestyle Awards SATURDAY 23 FEBRUARY at the Crowne Plaza, Liverpool TICKETS ON SALE NOW

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Kate Henshaw Q Do’s

Andrew Collinge Electric

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Pearl Boutique

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Special Award presented by MP Luciana Berger... to be announced on the night.