Ulster Life Magazine | issue 54
Beaufort is open to the public Monday-Saturday
102 – 106 Main Street Moira
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Looking For The Perfect Body Without Surgery? Imagine a non-surgical fat reduction procedure that costs a fraction of what most treatments cost, is permanent, and tackles those tough spots like ‘love handles’ and belly fat. UltraSlim LipoFreeze Cryolipolysis and Ultrasound Cavitation Lipo are the most effective non surgical body sculpting treatments available on the market today. Inches can be lost off any given area of the body with a short, simple treatment administered in a comfortable, relaxed environment. Cryolipolysis LipoFreeze (Fat Freezing) delivers controlled cooling to reduce fat by up to 40% during a single treatment, while Ultrasound Cavitation Lipo & RF delivers instant results for fat reduction, in addition to targeting cellulite, reducing stretch marks and tightening loose skin after child birth. We are shaped by what we love, but you’ll love the shape you can achieve at UltraSlim Clinics.
ULTRASLIM LIPOFREEZE™ CRYOLIPOLYSIS Target Excess Fat & Reduce Cellulite • • • • • •
Treat up to 4 areas simultaneously to reduce time and costs Clinically Proven, FDA Medically Cleared and Effective The latest treatment to banish unwanted fat permanently Undeniable results by up to 30% in only one treatment No Surgery, No Scars & No Downtime The treatment all the stars and celebrities have been shouting about
Before and After 1 UltraSlim LipoFreeze™ Treatment
Before
Ultra Slim Clinics 3 Wellington Place, Belfast BT9 6DJ T: 0844 288 7297 E: info@ultraslimclinics.com www.ultraslimclinics.com
ULTRASLIM LIPO™ CAVITATION & RADIO FREQUENCY TREATMENTS Target Excess Fat, Cellulite & Tighten Skin • Instant Results for Fat Reduction • Totally Non Invasive, • No Surgery, • No Needles, • No Pain, • No Side Effects, • No Downtime!
After
UL Hello and welcome to the summer issue of Ulster Life Magazine. You’ll by now have noticed a few changes with the most obvious being the redesigned UL brand identity front cover. We love it and think it reflects our brand and new direction perfectly and we hope you do as well. You’ll also see a lot of internal changes in our September issue with smart new intuitive layouts for our digital readers as well as a reintroduction of our printed magazine. Our digital platform magazine along with our recently refreshed website www.myulsterlife. com will remain our key focus, however, we recognise that some readers and clients still like to see a physical copy available. We also have an amazing competition offering 1 lucky subscriber £1000 to spend with our Interiors Partner, Beaufort Interiors in Moira. If you don’t subscribe already just click here and you can subscribe today for 1 year for just £10 (Usually £20) you’ll also receive a £60 nakedwines voucher, £10 Jason Shankey Voucher and 10% off your bill including drinks at the amazing CoCo Belfast. All for just £10!! Have a great summer and enjoy the issue! Cover image: PETER MARK NI www.petermark.ie
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POWER AND LUXURY, IN PERFECT HARMONY THE NEW 2015 RAPIDE S Born of a unique ambition, created with the finest materials, Rapide S possesses searing sports car performance combined with sumptuous luxury. Its signature breadth of ability is enhanced by the new 8-speed Touchtronic III automatic gearbox, which provides supreme refinement, enhanced acceleration and a top speed of over 200mph. Ground-breaking and yet possessed of timeless beauty, Rapide S is sublime, thrilling and every inch an Aston Martin.
FIND OUT MORE AT Charles Hurst Aston Martin 62 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6LR Tel: 0844 659 3498 www.charleshurst.com/astonmartin Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Aston Martin Rapide S: urban 13.2 (21.4); extra-urban 28.0 (10.1); combined 19.9 (14.3). CO2 emissions 332 g/km. The mpg/fuel economy figures quoted are sourced from official regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. They are for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your real driving experience, which may vary depending on factors including road conditions, weather, vehicle load, and driving style.
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Eve Brannon & Pamela Ballantine
Nicola Montgomery and Emma Bonner
Siobhan O’Sullivan and Sarah Weir
Down Royal Best Dressed Racing fans and Ireland’s style elite showed off their fashion credentials at Down Royal’s Best Dressed Lady competition at this year’s Summer Festival, with 29-year-old Riona Corrigan scooping the prize of a luxury trip to Rome at the event held recently.
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Lexus Best Dressed winner Riona Corrigan (second from right) with judges (l-r) Eve Brannon, Neil Cole and Jona
Maura McGurgan and Denise Curran
Suzanne Lucas and Carmel Conroy
Avril Jenkins, Margaret Simpson and Tori Bell
George and Elaine McCartney
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Ciara Daly
Janelle
Arlene Gormley & Lisa Thomson
The Shaz Awards Northern Ireland’s leading make up industry awards took place recently for the fifth consecutive year. The Shaz Awards, founded by Belfast woman Ciara Daly who has been working in the make-up industry for over a decade, returned to AM:PM’s Cabaret Supper Club with a packed out audience as nine illustrious awards were up for grabs.
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Aileen & Orla Rofferly
Sarah Busby & SusanLouise Graham
Lisa Dempsey & Gillian Kerr
Catherine Courtney & Emma Courtney
Hannah McNeill
Michelle McMakin & Sinead O’Hanol
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We offer a comprehensive range of property services: Residential Resales & Lettings • Property Management • Land Sales & Acquisitions • Property Auctions Valuations: Probate, Matrimonial, Tax & Insurance • New Developments • Financial Advice
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Hillsborough International Oyster Festival Returns With Extended Programme
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et the world be your oyster at the annual Hillsborough International Oyster Festival 2015. Running from Tuesday 1st to Sunday 6th September, this world-famous Festival offers visitors the opportunity to sample the finest locally sourced produce and to be entertained by local artists and fun activities. The Hillsborough Oyster Festival will include activities, performances and eating experiences to satisfy all tastes. This year’s Festival will see the return of the World Oyster Eating Championship, the glamourous Pearl and Oyster Ball, The Oyster Masters Golf, the Super Car Dream Sunday and the Soapbox Derby which is being sponsored by TrustFord this year. The line-up will also feature the debut of a number of exciting events including
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the appetising Hillsborough Gourmet Pop-Up Restaurant. The week-long Oyster Festival attracts large numbers of tourists to the Hillsborough area each year and now in its 23rd year, the prestigious event once again anticipates many visitors from the USA, Japan and beyond, all travelling to Northern Ireland to indulge in the unique food festival. Speaking at the launch of this year’s event, Don Spence, Chairman, Festival organising committee said, “Each year the Festival goes from strength to strength and contributes enormously to the local tourism industry. It sparks interest among food lovers, car fanatics and music fans. This year we’re looking forward to having racer Guy Martin join us for the TrustFord Soap Box Derby, as well welcoming the Ulster Youth Orchestra as a new addition to the Festival
line-up, all in support of our nominated charities, Clubs for Young People (CYP NI) and the Hillsborough Village Centre.” Premium gastronomy is a core ingredient of the Festival’s success with shellfish taking centre stage on Saturday 5th September at the World Oyster Eating Championship where competitors will be given the chance to win the coveted champion’s title. The new Gourmet Pop-up restaurant which premiers on Thursday 3rd September will provide guests with an exclusive dining experience comprising a three-course meal with dishes prepared by chefs from the Mourne Seafood Bar, The Hillside, The Parson’s Nose and The Plough. Don Spence adds, “The Festival is a great opportunity for neighbourhood restaurants to display their culinary flair and local food producers to exhibit their home-grown goods at the Festival’s Gourmet Food Market.” In addition to the cuisine, The Hillsborough International Oyster Festival also gives visitors the chance to delight in the company of the local community through the scheduled social events such as the Oyster Masters Golf Day, live concerts, the Pearl and Oyster Blues Brothers Ball, and during the open-air motor show at Super Car Dream Sunday. The Hillsborough International Oyster Festival also kindly acknowledges the support of Tourism NI and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council in the staging of this year’s event. For further information or to purchase tickets visit www. hillsboroughoysterfestival.com
ÂŁ35 rson
e per p
A guided tour through the story And flAvours of rMs titAnic Taste your way through the story of RMS Titanic with our signature 2-hour food tour, the ultimate combination of culture, history, food, and fun! Price ÂŁ35pp includes entrance to Titanic galleries, guided tour, food and drink tastings, branded souvenir photo A Taste of Titanic tours are available Friday 19th June and Friday 21st August, 6.30pm, 7.30pm, 8.30pm
For more information or to book visit titanicbelfast.com
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Ultraslim Clinics Wins Whatclinic.com Award For Excellent Customer Service
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ltraSlim Clinics has been recognised with an award for excellent customer service by private healthcare search engine, WhatClinic.com, based on feedback by customers over a twelve month period. WhatClinic awarded the top clinics across the country with awards for excellent customer service, superior satisfaction and consumer feedback. Customers rated clinics based on how well the clinic treated them, how quickly they were contacted and seen, and how happy they were with the treatment. UltraSlim Clinics was honoured with the award due to their fantastic customer feedback and constant drive to better patient experience. Last year the clinic also received a 5 Star Treatment Award from WhatClinic.com after receiving over 30 online reviews from clients follow-
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ing treatments such as non-invasive Ultrasound Cavitation Lipo and Cryolipolysis LipoFreeze who rated the clinic “Excellent” with 5 Stars. The clinic boasts some of the highest reviews in the industry throughout the whole of the UK and on the WhatClinic.com website. Hanna McCormac, owner of UltraSlim Clinics today said; “We are delighted to be recognised for our commitment to customer service. As a practice, it is something we focus on in everything we do. Given the nature of the treatments we offer clients we are very customer focused and results driven, so to receive such positive feedback from our patients is great.” WhatClinic.com CEO Caelen King congratulated UltraSlim Clinics and said “Our awards are now in their 7th year and it’s great to see more clinics than ever reaching the high standards we set in order to receive this award.
It’s the customer who selects our awards winners, by their clinic ratings and the feedback they leave about service and experience. We believe that empowering the patient with accurate information is the future of a successful healthcare market. With these awards we honour clinics that are dedicated to the highest level of customer care and consistently putting the needs of the patient first.” UltraSlim Clinics specialize in Non-Invasive Lipo treatments which have become more and more popular for those seeking an alternative from the risks and downtime associated with traditional Liposuction. Using a combination of technologies such as Cryolipolysis LipoFreeze, Ultrasound Cavitation Lipo & RF they are able to offer a non-invasive alternative to help target excess fat, cellulite, stretch marks and tighten loose skin without clients needing to go under the knife or local anaesthetic. There is no surgery required, no needles, no pain, no side effects and no downtime, so clients can return to normal activities directly after treatments. For more information: ultraslimclinics.com
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Comfort is key
Jet-Set Style A leading stylist in Northern Ireland, Eve has a wealth of experience in the industry. Each month she offers a fashion focus into the most coveted designers, trends and styles of the season. 18
ULfashion ladies and slip into something fresh and suitably fashionable? Hopefully there can be a balance, helping you find a way to hit the runway like an A-lister. Let’s take a look at some famous faces and celebrity high-fliers that have mastered the art of jet-setting in sartorial style. One thing celebrities are super successful at (most of the time) is being able to emerge from their first class flight looking fairly flawless, without a clogged pore or eye bag in sight. However, consider their motivation – a fleet of photographers and following fans awaiting their arrival. While, thankfully, you probably won’t
be plagued by paparazzi per se, it does no harm to take some handy travel trend tips from the most experienced of globetrotters. Reese Witherspoon’s version of cool-casual summer style incorporates both colour and print, arriving into Miami airport in super-comfy Michael Kors silk pyjama pants and simple, yet chic Valentino sandals. Slip-on footwear comes in handy when going through security as well as being easy to kick off during flights. Take a style cue from Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s laid back luxe look: a Christopher Kane embellished sweater and J Brand skinny
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t’s early summer and your sense of adventure is starting to set in; your itchy feet are willing you to step on a plane and escape to sunnier climates – trust me, I’m there with you! Hopefully you have an array of exciting travel plans on the horizon but before you pack the passport and jet off, let’s address this potential style conundrum…. what to wear to the airport? The initial decision to be made – do you arrive at your holiday destination looking fabulous – or chose comfort over fashion? Does the holiday start as soon as you touch down at the terminal bar, or do you hot-foot it to the
A Little Mix of intransit trends
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Rosie HuntingtonWhiteley jeans, accessorized with a felt fedora and Aquazzura slippers. Comfortable flats and a stylish hair cover-up win definite air mile points! For ensured comfort on long flights optional layers are a must. Jessica Alba shows us how to layer for every season in her preppy
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ensemble, fit for the French Rivera. The addition of co-ordinating luggage and fedora give a casual look a high fashion edge. Finally, whether you’re rocking sweats or stilettos, an obvious but valuable final fashion travel tip: NEVER forget the sunglasses!
Reese Witherspoon
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Jessica Alba
Contact: Eve Brannon, Fashion Stylist and Journalist W: evebrannonfashionstyling.com E: info@evebrannonfashionstyling.com T: 0 (44)78 1759 7067 21
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
39-41 Mill Street Gilford 028 3883 0935 www.bellamarie.uk facebook.com/ bellamariefashionboutique Bella Marie first opened its doors in November 2011 by proprietor Victoria Jackson with the help of her mum Vera Kimmons. Victoria has had a keen interest in fashion from a young age and after studying a degree in marketing she decided to combine both these interests into opening up her own fashion boutique. The boutique has went from strength to strength thanks to the supports of our wonderful customers. We will be running nearly four years in November and have decided after great request to launch our very own website. Bella Marie is a ladies fashion boutique situated in the quaint village of Gilford. It offers an array of ladies casualwear and wardrobe essentials; to an exquisite collection of occasionwear for upcoming weddings and special events. We cater for sizes 8-18; for the younger and maturer trend setting ladies. The boutique stocks brands such as Geisha, Darling, Relish, Mia Soana, Rosalita McGee and many more. We are often told by customers that they carry that “little something different�. We also have a wide range of jewellery and accessories.
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IN ASSOCIATION WITH
We carry a couple of ranges of handbags instore to match up with outfits. Prices range from £25-£69
Italian Brand Rinascimento Dress £104 23
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Daisy May Dress £120
Black and White Bow Fascinator £45
Relish Gold Zipped Top £66 Geisha Bright Red Stretch Jeans £57.99 24
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Darling Gracie Maxi Dress £70 25
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Soaked In Luxury Outfit Powder Blue Blazer £69
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IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Soaked In Luxury Polkadot Suit, Jacket £69
Yumi Woodlands Print Dress £62, Mellow Yellow Yumi Cardigan £42
Soaked In Luxury Aqua Rose Jumper £59, Geisha White Stretch Jeans £57.99 27
ULbeauty
Shaz Awards Continue to ‘Make Up’ Northern Ireland’s Top Talent
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he make up industry’s coveted Shaz Awards, founded by businesswoman Ciara Daly, who has been working in the make up industry for over a decade, recently returned to Belfast for a sixth consecutive year. Nine illustrious awards were up for grabs on the night and the audience was packed with some of Northern Ireland’s leading make up artists, models and photographers all shortlisted for the top prizes. Ciara’s Lisburn Road based make up academy is one of Ireland’s most sought after training facilities, offering courses for beginners to more experienced artists; and it
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has created and nurtured some of Ireland’s freshest creative talent. The Shaz Awards, named after Ciara’s mother Sharon who sadly passed away in 2006, were created to celebrate and encourage creative talent within the burgeoning make up industry by celebrating excellence and creativity. Ciara said at the awards, “What a fantastic way to celebrate another year of unbelievable talent. I am constantly in awe of the work produced by the skills of our current and former students. I created the awards not only to recognise this incredible work, but also to credit the inspirational stories and development
of the students’ careers. I’m so glad I did because we’ve seen some real talent shine through.” She continued: “I have been so inspired throughout the years by my students and without such talent and dedication, the Shaz Awards could not have returned for its sixth year. It has been a pleasure to work alongside these students who have touched me with their stories, compassion, determination and talent and I think it is important that this is recognised through the awards. ” The judges for the awards included photographer Glenn Norwood, online retailer Samantha Lemon Bell, hairdresser Lee Stinton and make-up artist Nuala Campbell.
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Therapie Miss NI reigns in style with her Donnelly Fiat 500
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he reigning Therapie Miss Northern Ireland will be travelling in style thanks to the sponsors of the Therapie Miss Northern Ireland competition, the
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Donnelly Group. Local Newtownabbey girl, Leanne McDowell, has just picked up her customised Fiat 500 from Donnelly Fiat in Mallusk.
Leanne said: “I’m thrilled with my new car! I’ve always been a huge fan of Fiat 500s because of their signature Italian flare with stylish vintage undertones.
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“I attend a lot of events in the city centre so the nifty city mode will come in really handy for parking! With four Donnelly Fiat showrooms across Northern Ireland, no matter where I
am it’s handy to pop in and take a look at all the fab new colours the 500 is available in. “The service that Donnelly Group has provided has been second to none; every detail
of the car is custom designed to reflect my own personal style, from the gorgeous mint green exterior to my set of diamanté keys!” Regarded as the perfect accessory to complement busy lifestyles and social schedules, the popular Fiat 500 captured the attention of fashionistas all over Northern Ireland at the various Therapie Miss NI heats. Michael McCulloch, Brand Manager at Donnelly Fiat Mallusk, said: “Every Therapie Miss NI needs to travel in style, and we were delighted to sponsor the Therapie Miss Northern Ireland competition this year. Having judged at two of the heats in Belfast and Dungannon we were very proud of Leanne and excited for her to receive her Fiat 500. “The Donnelly Group is the exclusive retailer of new Fiat vehicles in Northern Ireland, and like the Italian manufacturer prides itself on giving the customer exactly what they want. With so many customisable features this is easy to do, including 14 body colour choices, chrome, stickers and nine types of wheels, your Fiat’s look is entirely up to you. “I extend massive congratulations to Leanne as she begins her reign as Therapie Miss NI and wish her all the best on her travels in her Fiat.” Call in to any of the Donnelly Fiat showrooms in Dungannon, Eglinton, Enniskillen or Mallusk to get behind the wheel from just as little as £139 deposit and £139 per month on Personal Contract Hire.
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Newry’s Leading Ladies Fashion Boutique - Berling!
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isters Berenice and Aisling Rafferty established Berling, the award winning ladies clothes boutique just over seven years ago. Nestled in the heart of Newry, they aim to dress the lady who will inspire, make a statement and turn heads. Berling endeavour to provoke women to become leaders in fashion rather than followers, ensuring they will get noticed for all the right reasons. Berling is a destination boutique for those looking for an alternative to High Street Fashion. Desirable and original, the collections are
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beautifully showcased casual wear to sophisticated and elegant occasion wear. At Berling, there is a range of clothes to suit all occasions whether it is a wedding, a christening, day atthe-races or just a nice evening out. The store has the very best on offer in ladies wear, from the cutting edge for those who like to stay one step ahead to the timeless classics every woman should have in her wardrobe. There are loads of ‘must have’ items in separates ‘desk to dinner’ dresses and casual wear with endless colour combinations. Some of the labels showcased at
Berling include: Almost Famous, Daisy May, Ella Boo, Kate Feamley, Virgos Lounge to name a few so there is something truly unique for everyone. The clothes are available in sizes eight to eighteen with handbags, hairpieces and jewellery to compliment every look. A small deposit secures any item: ‘If you like it we will hold it.’ Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10.00am - 5.30pm Or Dress by Appointment. Tel: 028 30269179. Email: berenicer@aol.com Visit: www.berlingboutique.co.uk Follow us on Facebook.
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FROM JUST £74 Whisk yourself off to Scotland on the shortest, fastest and most frequent crossings from Northern Ireland. LARNE – CAIRNRYAN
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Each way web fare from
Each way web fare from
INCLUDES CAR AND DRIVER
INCLUDES CAR AND DRIVER
£74
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Book direct at poferries.com or call 08716
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Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras. Calls from mobiles will be higher.
Terms and Conditions: Web fares shown include all taxes. The service between Larne and Troon runs until 30th September 2015. Phone bookings are subject to a booking fee of £5. Fare applies to restricted space, sailings and dates. Full terms and conditions apply, available at poferries.com
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Summer Sale Arrives at Beaufort Interiors Superb offers continue throughout the Beaufort Interiors showrooms with their amazing summer sale. Call in to view our 15 room sets decked in various styles and periods. Browse through our extensive library of wallpapers, fabrics and trimmings and be advised by our expert team of designers. Shop now at www.beaufortinteriors.co.uk or Call in and see for yourself at Beaufort Interiors - 102-106 Main Street Moira - T: 02892619508
La-Z-boy Recliner chair - £ 1,375 BEAUFORT SUMMER SALE PRICE -20% FOR £1,100
Biedermeier-styled Crotch Walnut Console table £ 2,125 BEAUFORT SUMMER SALE PRICE -20% FOR £1,700
DURESTA Lansdowne 3-seat sofa R4 fabric £ 2,542 BEAUFORT SUMMER SALE PRICE -25% FOR £1,900
UL Interiors Shop online at beaufortInteriors.co.uk
ULinteriors DURESTA Sunday Ladies’ Chair R4 fabric £ 1,735 BEAUFORT SUMMER SALE PRICE -25% FOR £1,300
UL interiors in association with Beaufort Interiors LHP
ULinteriors DURESTA Sunday Ladies’ Chair R4 fabric £ 1,735 BEAUFORT SUMMER SALE PRICE -25% FOR £1,300
Crotch Walnut Sleigh bed from £ 5,720 (mattress extra) BEAUFORT SUMMER SALE PRICE -20% FOR £4,570
UL Interiors Shop online at beaufortInteriors.co.uk
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Baba table with optional upgrade to white marble top £770.00 BEAUFORT SUMMER SALE PRICE -20% FOR £610
Baba table with optional upgrade to white marble top £770.00 BEAUFORT SUMMER SALE PRICE -20% FOR £610
UL interiors in association with Beaufort Interiors LHP
ULbeauty
SPA SLEUTH By Cathy Martin
In preparation for the dehydrating effects of the summer sunshine, I sought out the country’s most hydrating facials and body treatments this month, as well as trialling some new hair removing methods for smooth bikini lines.
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o kick start the month, I visited the Deborah Harper salon in Helen's Bay, where I had the Hydralessence facial and body treatments, both 'hero' treatments by skin experts Yon-Ka. The facial began with an aromatic compress, then a warm mist with 5 essential oils followed by a fragrant vegetal
exfoliation using the 'Gommage 305' product (£32.50). The therapist followed this with a hydrating peel-off mask and an amazingly relaxing massage for face, neck and neckline using Yonka's 'Phyto 58' (£43) and Hydralia booster serum (£44). Another double hydrating mask for the face and neck followed
and the treatment was topped off with Lotion PS hydration spray (£28), Phyto Contour eye cream (which specifically targets puffiness and dark circles) (£35) and day cream Elastine Jour (£47). The high-performance treatment really helped to restore my skin's balance, suppleness, and texture. The
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powerfully softening action of seaweed and fruit extracts, as well as the use of two refreshing masks (one including a massage with a fine aromatic mist) plus the application of a repairing, hydration-reactivating duo using Yon-Ka techniques means that this is right up there with the bomb-diggedy of facials. It lasts an hour and costs £60.00. Worth every penny in my opinion. The 'sister' treatment I had that day was the Hydralessence Body treatment which left my skin divinely soft, smooth, and velvety. It lasts almost 2 hours and costs £80, but in that time my body was pampered from head to toe, kicking off with a hydrating aromatic compress for
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my feet as well as an all over body scrub and seaweed body mask followed by a luxurious hydrating and regenerating massage using the Huile Corps (£37) which is super rich and nourishing. I felt super relaxed and my previously parched skin felt supple and soft. From the non-abrasive, hydrating botanical exfoliation with its delectable citrus aroma and the mineral-restoring, softening body mask with seaweed from Brittany to the final relaxing, repairing massage, everything comes together to eliminate the faintest trace of roughness, dryness, or discomfort in this treatment. 10/10! To smooth out my bikini line in preparation for swimwear, I
also tried Lycon waxing at Lekker beauty in Holywood. This new Australian wax system is half beeswax, half resin so it has a lower melting point (no burns ladies!) and it works on hair as short as 1mm. Yes, 1mm(!) so no weeks of waiting with that ugly in-between stage, especially if you're at the coast all summer. Also, very importantly, it doesn’t hurt. OK so, yes, I felt a slight tug as the hair came away, but not that burning strip wax feeling of heat and pulling and then a hot tingling afterwards. I used to think the pain was more to do with the therapist and her technique rather than the wax itself, but the wax is definitely a huge factor because Lycon
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shrink-wraps the hair and tugs only on it and not the skin (mind you, my therapist was also super professional too!). All in all a great experience, especially for the uninitiated or those who are squeamish about waxing but wanting the results. Next up, I tried Sugaring with Pamela Kennedy at Posh in Lisburn. Pamela is Ireland's leading trainer in Sugaring, so I was happy to be going to the expert with such delicate cargo in my precious parts. My bikini line had been lasered ten years ago, so there wasn’t as much hair as some people might have, but I have to say that Sugaring definitely proved much, much less painful than
strip waxing, which can cause burns, infections, ingrown hairs and rashes due to the delicate skin in the area. It's an ancient Arabic method of hair removal where the sugaring paste is made from natural ingredients - sugar, water and lemon juice. It's applied at body temperature and will not burn the skin. Also, because the sugar paste is water soluble, sugaring products don’t adhere to live skin cells like wax does, so they don’t cause any unnecessary pain. The Sugaring removes dead skin cells, exfoliating your skin at the same time as hair is being removed and leaves a smooth finish. One thing to note is that after a number of Sugaring
treatments, Pamela tells me the hair follicle begins to deplete there is definitely a much slower re-growth in the area. The only downside is that Sugaring can be a slightly lengthier process than waxing, however Pamela was super speedy and I was really pleased with the result. Beach Body Ready? Well, I'm certainly smooth and hydrated anyway... Now, about that diet... Deborah Harper 02891852859 or info@ deborahharperbeauty.co.uk Posh Beauty 028 9266 1617 Lekker Beauty 028 9042 3962 info@lekkerbeauty.co.uk
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It’s a NEW me! 42
ULhealth How has The New You Plan changed your life? The best thing about a Very Low Calorie Diet (VLCD) is the quick results. As I began to lose weight quickly, safely and easily my confidence began to grow. I absolutely love shopping now. I love the fact that I can go into a shop and literally pick anything I want. My newfound confidence also means that I look forward to work nights out. The New You Plan has given me a new lease of life. When I look back at where I was and how I was feeling compared to my life now, I feel like a totally new person. I finally found my new me!
Maria has lost an amazing 3 stone since she started The New You Plan. In fact, her impressive weight lost was instant with 9 pounds being lost in the first week alone! Overall, her 3 stone weight loss has seen her shrink from a dress size 18, right down to a slim line size 12. Here, she talks to Ulster Life about her incredible weight loss journey. Maria, why did you choose The New You Plan? I joined New You on a recommendation from a friend. She had lost so much weight and was constantly telling me how easy it was. Having tried so many other diets and failed, I was drawn to The New You Plan for its simplicity and the very structured regime that I knew would keep me on track. I couldn’t believe how easy the diet was and the support I received from The New You Plan was amazing! What were your reasons behind starting the diet? I used to hate clothes shopping. I would try on clothes and they just didn’t feel comfortable. I also began to realise that I was part of a vicious cycle. I wouldn’t go out because I didn’t feel comfortable about how I looked so I would stay in and end up snacking and eating. And so the cycle continued. I’ve also never been on a sun holiday! I would think about the clothes that I would be required to wear and the thought just made me shy away from it. All of these factors added up to me finally realising that I needed to make a change.
I was drawn to The New You Plan for its simplicity and the very structured regime that I knew would keep me on track. I couldn’t believe how easy the diet was and the support I received from The New You Plan was amazing!
What are your top tips to staying focused on a VLCD? • Know what you want and why you want it. • Take pictures to help you keep a visual record of your progress. • Exercise. • Use The New You Plan Facebook Secret Slimmers support group. • Focus on your achievements and make promises to yourself that you intend to keep about not going back! For more information on The New You Plan, visit: www.thenewyouplan.com
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Survival of the Fittest By Eve Brannon Sponsored by Peak Physique Lisburn Road It’s often said that if exercise were a pill we could bottle, it would be one of the most cost effective drugs for curing ailments and illness ever invented.
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hese days our lifestyles are more sedentary than ever before, with many professionals working from an office chair 9-5, driving home and then relaxing in the evening with our families on the sofa. So what effects does the sedentary state have on our bodies and overall wellbeing? I try to refer back to the caveman days when thinking about the
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body’s design, purpose and how we should eat and move. If you consider the overall physical health and fitness of the caveman/ cavewoman or ‘hunter gatherer’, they were strong, not overweight by today’s standards, did not suffer from modern degenerative diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis or cancers. Most people would argue that they had an average shorter life span compared to today, which of course
is true – but for not the health reasons you may imagine. There were higher infant mortality rates, deaths from birth and pregnancy and many deaths simply from the
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overall stress of the climate and living conditions. None of these survival hazards were accompanied by modern medicine or emergency care that we have today. So comparatively the caveman lived a much healthier lifestyle. The human form is built to walk miles, run (be chased!), hunt animals, move and lift heavy objects, swim through rivers and climb trees… Not simulating this sort of natural activity surely must have major health implications as your body’s muscles, skeleton, heart and lungs will not be getting worked and used as they are built to. The danger lies in that if ‘you don’t use it, you lose it’ - by being predominantly sedentary you may loose bone density over
time. In not doing any sort of lifting exercises your muscles will not grow or stretch and underdeveloped muscles can cause muscle strain and injury. Furthermore, bones will be more susceptible to breaks on impact and in later life this can lead to osteoporosis. A lack of cardiovascular activity (using the heart and lungs) and rarely increasing your heart rate with exercise can run the risk of suffering heart disease and cardiovascular illness. Although through natural evolution, lifestyle and purpose has moved on and
evolved, the body still requires similar physical stimulus to thrive. So how to we get motivated to exercise when our survival doesn’t depend on it? Consider the gym, exercise or any form of physical movement, as an opportunity to activate what your body should do naturally and needs to function efficiently - even if it’s just for a couple of hours a week. Find something that you enjoy, that gives you energy and that adds to your sense of wellbeing. Exercise doesn’t have to be boring or a chore. Prevention is better than cure…. move and be healthy!
721 Lisburn Road, Belfast, Antrim BT9 7GU T: 028 9066 7887 www.peakphysiquelisburnroad.com UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP
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& Northern Ireland’s first IVF money-back plan now available at GCRM-Belfast
GCRM-Belfast and Access Fertility are Partnering to help patients: M ake substantial savings on the cost of treatment Fix the cost of treatment 70% refund if you don’t have a baby
Get in touch GCRM-BELFAST Ltd Edgewater House, Edgewater Road GCRM-BELFAST Belfast, BT3 9 JQ Ltd Edgewater House, Edgewater Road Belfast, BT3 9JQ Telephone: 028 9078 1335 Fax: 028 9037 0947 Telephone: 028 9078 1335 Email: info@gcrmbelfast.com Fax: 028 9037 0947 www.gcrmbelfast.com e-mail: info@gcrmbelfast.com www.gcrmbelfast.com
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Shooting from the hip... W hen you watch your wedding video, and peruse the pictures for the millionth time in the year 2050, what will you want from them? It’s a question Ball & Wolf thinks about a lot. There is an essence to a wedding day. It’s not the cake, it’s not the venue… it’s how the day ‘feels’. Capturing that spirit is something not everyone can do. Carl Whinnery, the man behind Ball & Wolf, is fascinated by those moments; moments that can mean so much and
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that no one wants to lose. A married family man raising two equally photogenic kids, Carl’s is a knowing, intimate style, capturing the atmosphere, capturing the emotion… capturing you. Carl has shot around the world, his lens reflecting stories from Palestinian and Israel; snapping from the frontlines at mass protests; he’s a motorcycledriving, philosophy addict that loves coffee, Moroccan cuisine, and Call of Duty. In his spare time, he helped create Boundary Brewery, a
crowd-funded local craft beer company, and appeared as a Whitewalker in more than one episode of Game of Thrones. He has photographed in parks, up mountains, in valleys, by the sea, on cliffs, in fields, from height, on wheels, off piste, up trees… if the moment calls for it, he makes it happen. But if Carl’s experience has been intense, you’ll be glad to hear that he isn’t. Shooting in his signature candid style, Carl never loses his sense of fun, and you will find yourself relaxed (most likely giggling) on camera and beaming both on the day, and at the emotionpacked images he creates. For his videos, he creates short highlights for your friends, with a longer edit for you to enjoy down the years. Some are available on his website, and only a robot will not find themselves chuckling and ‘awing’ in time with his expertly-timed edit. From competitivelypriced packages to bespoke arrangements, Ball & Wolf will find the most suitable deal for you. Carl is also at home collaborating with other professionals to create unique and beautiful pieces, whether a wedding, or any other family event. Whatever the occasion, have your day as you want it, and let Ball & Wolf capture those incredible moments in your life, capturing you forever. Contact Ball & Wolf at www.ballandwolf.com Facebook/ballandwolf or call on 0795 835 0025.
Parkanaur Grade A Listed Building
MANOR HOUSE
• Licensed to hold Civil or Religious Ceremonies • Unique Setting – Unique Wedding • One Wedding Per Day WEDDING PACKAGE • Red Carpet Welcome • Complimentary Glass of Champagne on Arrival for Bride and Groom • Open fire at Reception • Baby Grand Piano • Tea / Coffee & Shortbread Served to your Guests on Arrival • Orange Juice and Iced Water Served Throughout the Meal • White Linen Tablecloths & Napkins • Special Dietary Needs Catered for • Use of House and Grounds for your Special Photographs • Complimentary Changing Room
• Extensive Grounds Allow for Ample Free Parking • Plus Many Other Attractions • Event Manager/Deputy will Personally Look After Your Wedding From Start to Finish
APPOINTMENT NECESSARY TO APPRECIATE VENUE Contact Marlene Marcus Events & Wedding Manager E: events@parkanaurmanorhouse.com T: 028 8776 1336 M: 07714 955 865
PARKANAUR MANOR HOUSE 57 Parkanaur Road, Dungannon, BT70 3AA www.Parkanuremanorhouse.com
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Patricia Lappin & Mickey McElduff
Photography by Peter Thomas Photography, peterthomasphotography.com
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Majorca – Photography on location NI reception in Glenavon House Hotel, Cookstown Patricia wore a dress by Jenny Packham named “Kathleen” which was also her Grans name. It was from Castle Couture in Ballymena. Patricia and Mickey met 12 years ago in a bar in Cookstown through mutual friends and started dating. They have been together since.
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Rachel Hurson & Cian O’Hare
Photography by Peter Thomas Photography, peterthomasphotography.com
ULwedding Lusty Beg Island, Rachels dress is an Allure gown. As for how they met. Rachel says, Cian was a friend of my brothers who played music in the local bars and we got talking at my brothers 21st birthday party and that was that!
It is the best thing that I ever did, I have never been a size 10 in my adult life. New Year New You. Make 2015 Your Year to get slim and healthy. Tasty meal plans delivered. Online support groups. Phone support. Order online or call us. Order today. Start tomorrow!
thenewyouplan.com 028 38 330 720 facebook.com/newyouplan
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Corick House Hotel & Spa launches latest developments to family run business
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orick House Hotel and Spa in Clogher is getting ready to celebrate 20 years in business by launching a series of developments to the 17th century country house. This week a newly refurbished
conservatory was unveiled to guests and those within the tourism industry, including representatives from Taste of Ulster and Tourism NI. The traditional nine-bedroom country house was originally
Spectacular We2dding3s For more details contact our wedding co-ordinator today. functions@corickcountryhouse.com 028 8554 8216 20 Corick Road Clogher, Co. Tyrone BT76 0BZ www.corickcountryhouse.com
bought by well known local business woman Jean Beacom 20 years ago and was transformed by her into an award-winning hotel with 19 deluxe rooms. Since the ‘untimely’ death of Mrs Beacom, her three children, Avril, Andrew and Haldane have moved into a lead role within the running of the hotel. The young team of ‘enthusiastic’ hoteliers are now continuing to develop upon the success of Corick House by adding a modern twist to opulent and traditional surroundings.