SO Magazine November 2022 by One Media

BUSINESS

A cut above Why Denton’s Art of Hair is committed to being a totally sustainable salon

FOOD & DRINK

LIFESTYLE

Discover the delicious new breakfast menu at The Brasserie in Tunbridge Wells

The talented team at Barker Design reveal their passion for homes & interiors

Brunch time Taste makers

TIS THE SEASON... ENJOY A VERY ROYAL CHRISTMAS WITH RTW TOGETHER BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

NOVEMBER 2022

Wealden Times

Midwinter

Advertorial

Midwinter Fair

Your favourite shopping event is back and it’s better than ever!

17-19 November

Shopping heaven

Shop ‘til you drop

From personalised decorations, FP Advert cards and prints to festive

The Fairs team have been busy curating a stunning collection of over 250 exhibitors. They’ve done the hard work in bringing together the ultimate mix of independent retailers and your favourite local brands, so that you don’t have to.

soft furnishings – we’ve got everything you need to create your dream Christmas. Plus fashion, jewellery, gifts and homeware.

PRE-BOO TICKETSK Quote MW when boo F for your spking e discount cial

Choirs Head to the Holly café where you can hear school choirs performing carols, hymns and some of their favourite songs on Thursday and Friday.

Come to shop, stay for lunch Whether you come for a solo shopping trip or a day out with friends, don’t miss the Holly and Ivy cafes where you can recharge with a delicious lunch from our street food vendors. The perfect start to Christmas.

17th - 19th November 2022 The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood TN12 6PY

Tickets now on sale at wealdentimes-fair.co.uk

Welcome

6 9 11 15

Culture vulture: what’s on where this month

Music for your ears: Paul Dunton speaks exclusively to brother and sister musicians The Ackerleys

Photo © Key & Quill

elcome to your November edition of SO magazine. As the festive season is just around the corner we’re paying homage to our amazing independent retailers and traders here in Tunbridge Wells. Given the current economic turbulent times we find ourselves in it’s now more important than ever to show your support for our local shops, cafés, bars and restaurants. That’s why we’re celebrating them all courtesy of the Business Improvement District (BID)’s new Christmas campaign. BID’s Director, Sarah-Jane Adams, is tasked with the job of managing the town and ensuring it gets every opportunity to improve its economic and social standing. And for Christmas 2022 she and her BID colleagues are working with retailers and restaurateurs to help boost footfall and promote Tunbridge Wells as a wonderful destination which will meet all your festive needs. Turn to page 11 to find out more… We also have our annual Christmas gift guide in this edition

which is also supporting a number of local independent retailers – both in town and online - as well as a few national brands such as The White Company who have a bricks and mortar presence in the town. Head to page 41 to see where you can source the perfect gifts for friends and family. And to further cover how you can support our local hospitality sector we also have a great Food & Drink section in this issue showcasing some fantastic restaurants and pubs – both old and new. We pay a visit to The Bottle House to sample the amazing new menu by top chef Gary Jarvis and also experience Robin Read’s incredible new pop-up restaurant The Counter which is hosting sittings three evenings a week every Thursday to Saturday at the Daily Bread in Rusthall until Christmas Eve. This month’s editor’s letter picture is courtesy of Key & Quill who were in attendance that night to snap all those – including myself – who were lucky enough to get a sneak peek before it officially launched last month. If you try it you will not be disappointed! Enjoy the issue!

Home is where the heart is: We’re invited to see the new Autumn/ Winter interiors collection from The Cotswold Company

Rise and dine: Celebrating the launch of the town’s new Brasserie breakfast and brunch spot at One Warwick Park

Family favourites: We meet clever cook Anna Stanford to chat about her new book Anna’s Family Kitchen

Pitch perfect: Beechwood School announces its pioneering Elite Football Programme

Glass act: The Bottle House has a new chef and we are loving what’s on Gary Jarvis’s menu

Love where you live: Tailor Daniel Boland reveals where he and his family like to shop, stroll and socialise in Tunbridge Wells

Epicurean experience: Robin Read launches his new pop-up dining venture The Counter at the Daily Bread

19 22 27

Tel: 01892 779650 www.timeslocalnews.co.uk @somagazines SoMagazines @SoMagazines

Published by

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All rights reserved.The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial.The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.

She’s in fashion: Kitch owner Charlotte tells us about her passion for looking good and sourcing quality sartorial pieces

Chill out: Naomi Murray from Botanica Health suggests natural ways to boost our immune systems this winter

53 57 58 63 64 66

Time is on your side: Hypnotherapist Karen Martin on how to deal with the clocks going back Escape to the country: Why Salomons new Garden Cottages make the perfect getaway

EDITORIAL Karen Martin Naomi Murray Tim Sykes Molly Miller

SALES advertising@onemediauk.co.uk

Headmaster: Charly Denton reveals her motivation for opening up a completely sustainable luxury hair salon on Camden Road

DESIGN Xela Stirling

PHOTOGRAPHY Emily Harding

41 44

Christmas presence: Don’t miss our brilliant gift guide which supports local makers and retailers

Hit reset: TAW’s Natalie Piacun on how to get your well-being back on track with some key beauty buys

EDITOR Eileen Leahy eileen.leahy@onemediauk.co.uk

Salomons Estate Tunbridge Wells Kent TN3 0TG

34 36 38

Happy Birthday: Pushkin Antiques marks its tenth year in business

THE TEAM

GET IN TOUCH

November 2022

Support local: Why Tunbridge Wells is the best place to shop, sip and savour a great Christmas

Eileen Leahy Editor SO magazine

ISSUE 169

contents

27 30 32

Fabulous fashionista: Jess Gibson of The TN Card talks to the Sophie Bland of bod & ted

Smiles all round: TWODS prepare to perform Me and My Girl at the Assembly Hall

Say I do in style: Local wedding experts tell us all about their forthcoming showcase at Salomons Estate

Design for life: Justine Hodgson-Barker on her unique interiors

Let’s go outside: Tim Sykes of Garden Proud on the appeal of having a fire pit during the wintertime Get set, jet: We travel to Spain to seek some sun Wheels in motion: Test drive the new Mercedes-Benz EQS

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 5

Calendar

Molly Miller’s edit of the month’s most entertaining events happening in November

THE MAIN EVENT

Seasonal Cheer Now in its 18th year, the Wealden Times Midwinter Fair is a much-loved festive shopping bonanza and one of the most popular events in Kent. We spoke to Wealden Times Editor Lucy Fleming to find out why fans of the fair return year-after-year and also to Flo Simpson, Event Director, about what we can look forward to this year…

he South East’s largest and most prestigious Christmas shopping event returns to the Hop Farm on November 17-19. With over 260 independent exhibitors selling fashion, jewellery, homeware, gifts, Christmas decorations, artisan food and drinks, there’s something for everyone – you can even get clothes for your dog. “We always see lots of mums and daughters and groups of best friends shopping together. They shop, have some lunch, and make a day of it. They love it.” says Lucy. “It’s easy to get to, free parking, big enough to make it worth the drive yet still feels intimate. There’s just such a nice atmosphere. “I think that people like to buy nice things, from nice people. The exhibitors you

6 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

meet have either designed, made, or sourced the products themselves – a lot of love and care goes into everything you see. It’s where I find my most thoughtful Christmas presents – things you can’t get online. Between fairs, our team scours the country for interesting new exhibitors, inviting them to join fan favourites. They carefully curate each marquee, so that it has the perfect mix of products and exhibitors and that’s what makes the fair so special.” “To enhance the shopping experience visitors this year will be directed to one of two entrances, which will improve the flow of the show” says Flo. “We have some amazing new exhibitors, delicious street food, and to get everyone into the festive spirit we’ve invited some of our favourite local school choirs, to sing Christmas songs in the Holly Café.”

Calendar

DON’T MISS THE FOLLOWING:

MARKET VALUE

Artisan Craft and Gift Market at One Warwick Park Hotel NOVEMBER 6, 13 & 20 The Tunbridge Wells Artisan Craft and Gift Market will be popping up at One Warwick Park Hotel this November [6, 13 and 20], offering a delightful selection of gifts and products. Between the streets of Chapel Place and The Pantiles, the hotel’s function room will be home to magnificent artwork, delicious chocolates, soaps, candles, fashion and more. Meet local traders and support small businesses whilst stocking up on a host of fabulous and unique Christmas gifts.

LONG LIVE THE KING The World-Famous Elvis Show

SKATE at Calverley Grounds

NOVEMBER 5

NOVEMBER 18 – JANUARY 2

A magnificent musical production is coming to the Assembly Hall Theatre on Saturday November 5 starring world renowned Elvis performer Chris Connor. Joined by his 12-piece live band The Steels, and backing vocals The Sweet Harmonies, the production will transport viewers back in time, recreating two of Elvis Presley’s most popular concerts. If you were not lucky enough to see Elvis live, this concert will certainly leave you feeling as if you have! Tickets cost from £30 and can be bought on www. assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk/whatson/the-world-famous-elvis-show-1

LIGHT FANTASTIC

DID YOU KNOW? The first recorded fireworks in England were at the wedding of Henry VII in 1486. They became very popular during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I and they were so much enjoyed by the Queen herself that she created a “Fire Master of England”.

ICE, ICE BABY

Dunorlan Park Fireworks NOVEMBER 5

Don’t miss out on this year’s incredible fireworks display at Dunorlan Park on Bonfire Night [November 5]. Organised by the Tunbridge Wells Round Table, this is an event which benefits many local charities. Before the spectacular fireworks display, visitors can enjoy a delicious selection of winter warmer treats including pulled pork burgers and fish and chips, as well as hot desserts and ice cream. This spectacular seasonal event usually attracts 10,000 plus visitors so don’t delay in buying your tickets! Gates open at 5.30pm before the main event kicks off at 7.00pm. www.rtwrt.org

Ice skating is a seasonal must and as Christmas looms, SKATE will be returning to Calverley Grounds for the twelfth year running. The magnificent dual ice rink attracts visitors from far and wide and is a must-do at Christmas. Open seven days a week from November 18 to January 2, (closed Christmas Day), the outdoor ice rink and festive stalls are only a five-minute walk from the train station and town centre, offering spectacular views of the beautifully-lit park, creating a unique and special seasonal experience this Christmas.

CALLING ALL FASHIONISTAS

Southborough Civic Centre NOVEMBER 11 & 12

DID YOU KNOW? Ice skating became popular on frozen ponds in England in the 17th century and in the 1740s, it was British servicemen who introduced ice skating to North America

Luxury faux fur accessories brand Helen Moore are heading to Tunbridge Wells for two days of fashion fun. Join the team on Friday November 11 and Saturday November 12 at the Southborough Civic Centre between 10am and 5pm to discover past collections, neverseen samples and unique items at special prices. “We will have faux fur from all our collections including Fashion, Home, Wellbeing, Bridal, Children and Pets. We can’t wait to see you,” a team member tells SO magazine. And between 7pm and 9pm on Friday (November 11) you can drop in for a glass of fizz while you shop the collection. A great way to make a start on your Christmas shopping for all the family!

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 7

y l i m a f a It’s . . . r i affa Music

This month Paul Dunton talks to siblings Joe and Alice, AKA The Ackerleys about the release of their stunning new EP ‘Boat We Made’

ne of the most unique warming.You just have to experience it acts on the local music first-hand. scene are The Ackerleys. Joe is regarded as one of the leading Comprised of siblings musicians and songwriters on the local Joe and Alice Ackerley, scene, he is undoubtedly a natural. He they have been performing together is a dextrous and highly-skilled guitar for around eight years. They offer a player and vocally he reminds me of bewitching sound, rich in Americana Guy Garvey and Thom Yorke at times. Why? Because he’s able to effortlessly and pop sensibilities with earnest, heartfelt lyrics and beautifully-crafted express emotional vulnerability through melodies. In terms of his voice, often switching comparing their sound, to a haunting falsetto if I mentioned acts such when the moment arises. as Civil Wars and Angus When the siblings’ & Julia Stone, well that voices combine When the wouldn’t be a million the harmonies are truly siblings’ voices miles away. Having said spellbinding. Songwriting combine the all that it’s fair to say The duties are often shared Ackerleys definitely have between the siblings. harmonies their own distinct brand They like working are truly together from scratch, of songwriting. spellbinding creating fresh ideas to Joe has been a stalwart completion but at other of the local scene for times enjoy writing a many years. His band complete song on their Cyrano are a popular own to then embellish draw and can often it furthermore together, ready for live be seen at The Forum, Local & Live shows. I caught up with Joe and Alice and other venues around Tunbridge recently to talk about the release of Wells. But whereas Cyrano’s melodic rock sound is inspired by the likes their forthcoming EP. of Pearl Jam, Elbow and Radiohead, The Ackerleys project offers So where did the idea come from to start performing together as something completely different, delving deep into the Americana genre with The Ackerleys? hints of country, folk and pop all very Years ago I used to play songs to present within their style. Alice at home and she would sing Alice’s vocal is nothing short of along and I knew one day we would mesmerising. Over the past 17 years start performing together. I have been I have heard many amazing singers playing in bands locally for a long time on the local scene, but Alice’s tone so was happy to start anytime, but it was more a case of when Alice felt is quite simply breathtaking. When ready to perform live. I remember our listening to her in full flight, there are debut Grey Lady show, it must have perhaps hints of Dolly Parton, but been about eight or nine years ago there is something else within the now. I know she felt a little nervous but tone: shades of Lisa Hannigan and Julia she absolutely smashed it and so The Stone come to mind, but she has her own unique style, ethereal yet heartAckerleys project was officially born.

Paul Dunton

Music Editor Follow Paul @PaulDuntonmusic

What are some of your favourite gigs to play on the local scene? We both love playing at The Forum and The Grey Lady. Both venues mean a lot to us and offer something a bit different for our live shows. Being an

Tickets to the launch night are available on the night and also via www.thegreylady.co.uk FOR MORE INFO VISIT: @theackerleys on FB and instagram

all-seated, intimate style gig, The Grey Lady really suits our acoustic duo or trio sets (when we are joined by our good friend Steve McCormack on guitar). There is a wonderful energy and vibe there, with the audience intently listening, you really feel immersed in the performance. The Forum really suits our full band line-up, which gives the songs a more dramatic style. Sonically it can also get a bit rocky at times which is great, because it allows us to show more of the light and shade in the songwriting, the dynamics come to the fore in a different way. We love getting the full band together which is comprised of some of our closest friends, all of whom are amazing musicians. The band is comprised of Matt Wilson (drums), Mike Wilton (bass), Jez Harley (keys) and Steve McCormack (guitar). Tell us more about the new EP. The new EP is entitled ‘Boat We Made’ and was recorded at the stunning Granary Studios in Lamberhurst which is owned by our good friend, Guy Denning. The EP was produced by our bassist and renowned local musician Mike Wilton. The EP features five original songs which we love to perform live and very much hope

people will enjoy listening to. The songs are ‘From The Night You Came’ ‘The Story’s Getting Old’, Proximity’, ‘Amelie’ and title track ‘Boat We Made’. Can you recall one of your favourite gig moments to date? For us it has to be performing at the Local & Live Festival in Calverley Grounds. Performing to thousands of people in your hometown on a festival stage with great sound and a full band is one of our most enjoyable experiences. Being surrounded by your band mates and knowing many of our close friends and family are in the audience supporting us is another big part of why that gig means so much to us. What can people expect at your EP launch night and where is it being held? We are launching the EP on November 18th at the Grey Lady Music Lounge. We will be performing as a full band line-up and we are delighted that local singer-songwriter Anna Howie will be opening for us. The EP will be available to purchase on the night and we will be performing tracks from it in addition to some golden oldie Ackerleys numbers! SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 9

35 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1LS 01892 517986

w w w. e d n e y a n d e d n e y. c o m

I SEE CLEAR VISION

through Nikon spectacle lenses

COVER FEATURE

A VERY ROYAL CHRISTMAS:

Celebrating our local

As people start to embark on their festive shopping sprees, local traders and Sarah-Jane Adams, Director of RTW Together Business Improvement District, tell SO magazine why it’s never been more important – or fun – to support the town’s retailers…

crown jewels

SO Magazine | November 2022 | 11

COVER FEATURE

“Royal Tunbridge Wells is a magical place at Christmas. Its royal heritage, historic buildings, independent retailers, food and drink spots, cobbled walkways and tucked away treasures are all part of its undeniable festive charm”

ome very dapperlydressed ladies and gentlemen were seen greeting local folk in Royal Tunbridge Wells recently. They were spotted holding open the doors of many of our independent emporiums with a flourish and tipping their top hats to anyone who walked by. But what could they be doing? Well in fact, these charming visitors had been summoned by the RTW Together Business Improvement District in order to go out-and-about and explore the many treats on offer at many of our town centre businesses as part of their ‘Very Royal Christmas’ promotional campaign. With a series of adverts and a regal festive film, this marketing message will demonstrate that come reign or shine, there are plenty of merry treats to delight in Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre. And whether you plan to shop ‘til you drop, take in a festive show, savour foodie offerings, or perhaps even make a Christmas wreath, there’s something waiting for you here, whether you’re local or visiting for the day.

12 | November 2022 | SO Magazine

“We’re a royal spa town with a rich history of merriment and festive celebration, so we wanted to showcase that with our Christmas campaign this year,” says BID Director Sarah-Jane Adams. “Visitors and residents alike can also enjoy the town centre’s Christmas lights, provided and funded by RTW Together for the second year running. While many assume the lights are delivered by the local Council, they are actually now installed and paid for by the Business Improvement District, on behalf of town centre businesses,” Sarah-Jane explains.

GIFTS GALORE When it comes to shopping, Royal Tunbridge Wells has got something for every taste, interest, and budget. At Fenwick Tunbridge Wells, visitors can expect to see a beautifully curated collection in their Christmas shop of special decorations, toogood-to-eat candy canes and gingerbread houses, garlands and wreaths. There are also plenty of faux Christmas trees, as well as an irresistible display of hampers, full to the brim with premium wines, cheeses, snacks, and other deliciously festive foods. For gifts of all shapes

and sizes, Fenwick offers a variety of carefully-selected items to delight your loved ones, from functional yet stylish kitchen and homewares, to high-end fashion and accessories, beauty, skincare, and fragrance in the dedicated beauty hall, and highquality outerwear for every occasion. Simon Youden of Fenwick Royal Tunbridge Wells tells us: “Royal Tunbridge Wells is a beautiful town to shop and spend time in, from The Pantiles right up to the top of town. We want to encourage the local community and visitors to shop local and help our town to keep flourishing and thriving this Christmas and beyond. “We’re really looking to engage with the local community this year and partner with other local businesses throughout the festive period,” Simon continues. “The RTW Together Business Improvement District really helps us to do that – it brings us all together and helps make the town a nice place to shop.” If you’re in the market for something a little more sparkly, then Walsh Bros on Mount Pleasant Road

COVER FEATURE

has some truly magnificent pieces bouquets, or creating a stunning to pique your interest. Housed in Christmas centrepiece under coan historic art-deco building, the founder Amy Lethbridge’s expert local independent jeweller offers guidance, who runs a programme a dazzling collection of modern, of tailored workshops to encourage antique, and vintage jewels procured you to get creative. Participants and curated by the Walsh Bros learn a new skill with a glass of local team through their expert eyes. One sparkling wine in hand, and after the such antique piece is a very special hard work is done, they’re treated 1920s diamond and platinum tiara to a tasting board of independently that once belonged to a created vodka, gin, and Viscountess, sourced rum to enjoy. by Walsh Bros and “We love trading “We want lovingly stored in in Royal Tunbridge to encourage the its original display Wells – there local community and box. are so many “It’s all about independent visitors to shop local to boutique, shops, and keep Tunbridge Wells independent everyone is flourishing and thriving friendly. There’s a shopping in Royal Tunbridge Wells – lovely atmosphere this Christmas and we offer something to the town centre,” beyond” different,” says Alexia Amy says. “For us, Taylor, who has been part RTW Together’s support of the Walsh Bros team for over at Christmas is really important, ten years. “Whatever you’re looking it’s such a critical time of year for for, there will be something for you. all the local businesses. Everybody “Christmas is a lovely time of year needs that extra support at this time because we get to spend a lot of time of year! with people as they choose special “We’re really ramping things up gifts for the people they love,” Alexia for the festive period – we’re running continues. wreath-making and Christmas table “For us, it’s the same at Christmas decoration workshops, and we’re time as it is all year round – we offer going to be at a few local artisan the best service possible and we help fairs and events. We’ve also teamed people to make the best choices, up with local charity Hospice in whether that’s sourcing a specific the Weald to run a stall at their fair, item for them, or choosing from our which is really exciting.” own collection.”

SEASONAL SPIRIT For a unique mix of crafts and floral workshops, handcrafted artisan food, drinks, and gifts, and a spectacular Christmas-themed window display that will get you in the festive mood, The Cove on the High Street offers a very special shopping experience. Festooned in floral garlands, the shop has all of your Christmas needs covered, from seasonal floral bouquets and dried flowers, to hampers, hand-picked wines and spirits, Christmas cards, chocolate, coffee, and ceramics. Visitors can even turn their hand to Christmas wreath-making, arranging their own hand-tied

ECO-PRESENCE

With big brands also key to this shopping destination, Lush Tunbridge Wells is bringing festive back with its iconic cult product Snow Fairy, plus a host of colourful and sweet-smelling gift sets that will bring endless scented joy to any bath bomb lover. Located in Royal Victoria Place shopping centre, Lush is a veritable Santa’s workshop of Christmas-themed bath bombs, shower gels, body scrubs, and other pampering products to make your bathroom smell as quintessentially festive as possible. Alongside its pioneering beauty products, Lush is also a wellknown advocate against animal

testing and packaging waste in the cosmetics industry. To combat the overconsumption of packaging and wrapping paper that we often see at Christmas, the Royal Tunbridge Wells store offers customers “RTW zero waste options, Together’s support selling many of its Place, just a few products ‘naked’ at Christmas is really yards away from to the consumer important, it’s such a Lush, the deep without any critical time of year for green interior packaging or gift of The Green wrapping. The all the local businesses. Duck Emporium shop also offers Everybody needs that immediately fabric wrap in a extra support” catches your eye and variety of fun prints invites you in to see what and colours, designed treasures can be found. Coining to be reused time and time themselves as ‘sellers of interesting again when the dreaded Christmas things’, The Green Duck Emporium wrapping comes around. Eco is an independent purveyor of gifts buyers will likely also be familiar that you won’t find anywhere else. with ethical store the Zero Waste Here you’ll find quirky filament Company in The Pantiles. bulbs in a myriad of colourful “Christmas is always an exciting designs, enamel pin badges, time at Lush, but this year we’ve Tunbridge Wells Roastery coffee, launched two new Snow Fairy and even live train trackers that light products – our most popular, cult up as trains arrive and depart across classic product that we only sell at your chosen London Underground Christmas! There’s now a lip jelly line. and a candle in the Snow Fairy Launched during the pandemic, scent, which we absolutely love. The Green Duck Emporium “Everyone should come shopping flagship store officially opened on in Royal Tunbridge Wells, it’s full Grosvenor Road in 2020, adding of different businesses and there’s something a little bit different to the something for everyone. It’s a town’s retail offering. Owner Matt wonderful place. Plus, Lush is here, later expanded to another site on so what more could you want?!” Grosvenor Road, opening a coffee Traversing across Royal Victoria

house and bar that hosts a busy calendar of events, workshops and private functions. Most recently, Matt acquired a unit in Royal Victoria Place, setting up a third Royal Tunbridge Wells space that sells its signature collection of unique items. “What makes Royal Tunbridge Wells a great place to shop at Christmas? I think it’s the variety, the uniqueness, the large concentration of independents,” answers Matt. “It’s different from the mainstream, and the town itself feels and looks very Christmassy and festive. Who wouldn’t want to spend time here? “We have our two retail sites, and then we have the coffee house and bar where we do lots of events – at this time of year, it’s wreathmaking workshops, as well as our very popular Christmas Cockney Singalong which always gets the crowd going.”

LET US ENTERTAIN YOU If you’re not in the market for shopping, there’s plenty more going on in our little corner of the Garden SO Magazine | November 2022 | 13

COVER FEATURE

of England. Trinity Theatre has not one, not two, but three festive family shows on offer this year, while the Assembly Hall Theatre’s traditional rip-roaring pantomime is the classic Jack and the Beanstalk, starring Cliff Parisi of Eastenders and Call the Midwife fame. SKATE Tunbridge Wells at Calverley Grounds is back too, with a small rink for tiny tots that transforms into a Bavarian curling rink at night, in addition to the larger rink for slightly bigger thrill-seekers. The Royal Tunbridge Wells Together Business Improvement District is also organising two Christmas lights switch-on events this year on November 19. Visitors can join local businesses, the Mayor, and Scrooge for free mince pies and music for carols in Chapel Place, from 2pm to 4:30pm, later moving to The Pantiles, with the switch-on with KMFM, Elf and Gingerbread friends, live singers and panto stars taking place at 8pm to 9:30pm, after The Big Reveal. Alongside these initiatives, the BID will also produce a promotional Christmas film and Christmas gift guide to promote town centre businesses to a wider audience and encourage people across the borough and beyond to visit the town this festive period. “The promotional activities are a really important part of our work at RTW Together,” Sarah-Jane

“Our aim is to tell a wider audience that Royal Tunbridge Wells is an attractive place to live, work, and visit – we can offer something for everyone, just 40 minutes from the bright lights of central London”

www.rtwtogether.com

explains. “It’s about communicating to a wider audience that Royal Tunbridge Wells is an attractive place to live, work, and visit – we can offer something for everyone, just 40 minutes from the bright lights of central London and surrounded by the stunning Kent countryside too. “Royal Tunbridge Wells is a magical place at Christmas. Its royal heritage, historic buildings, independent retailers, food and drink spots, cobbled walkways and tucked away treasures are all part of its undeniable festive charm.” To complement this, SarahJane reveals that BID has also commissioned a local artist Jess Harrison to create ‘beautiful Christmas scenes from around the town centre’. “We’ll be giving her illustrations away to the public in the form of free Christmas cards, to give to loved ones or to keep! Find them across the town centre, or at our Christmas lights switch on events on November 19.” Whether you find yourself spending the day as a tourist at the Spa Valley Railway, shouting ‘he’s behind you!’ at the panto, picking up gourmet gifts at The Pantiles Christmas markets, or even skating the night away in a moonlit Calverley Grounds, we hope you have a Very Royal Christmas. Instagram and Twitter: @rtwtogether

DISCOVER MUST-HAVE WARDROBE PIECES AND TOUCHES OF SOMETHING SPECIAL, WITH OUR ECLECTIC SELECTION OF DESIGNER BRANDS.

1 HIGH ST, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT, TN1 1UL | 01892 513 613

14 | November 2022 | SO Magazine

social scene

Photos © Jayne Nottage

Design

e f i l r o f

he Cotswold Company celebrated the launch of its gorgeous new autumn/winter collection last month by inviting a select group of local press, social media influencers and interiors fans for an exclusive sneak peek. On the night of the launch, guests were treated to cocktails courtesy of The Cotswolds Distillery and a floral masterclass by the team at Blooming Green. The talented florists demonstrated how to create both wild and hand-tied bouquet displays in a series of different Cotswold Company vases. During the evening canapés were also served by Fabulously Fed, while visitors walked around the vast two-floor showroom which is located in the heart of Tunbridge Wells on Mount Pleasant road. As well as gorgeous new accessories to cosy up your home for the colder months – think woollen throws and glimmering votives – the new collection also includes smart sofas, beautiful bedding and clever cabinetry, all of which will ensure any living space is elevated into a divine dwelling.

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 15

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social scene

e s i r s l a c Lo

ast month One Warwick Park Hotel on Chapel Place welcomed a wealth of guests to celebrate the launch of its new bottomless breakfast and brunch weekend menu. It’s now available from the hotel’s new Brasserie restaurant, whose main menu is packed full of breakfast favourites including eggs royale, American pancakes and traditional cooked breakfasts which can now be enjoyed with bottomless drinks at the weekend. The new offering, which also includes vegan and vegetarian dishes, is available between 11am and 2pm every Saturday and Sunday, costing guests just £34 for 90 minutes of Prosecco, Bellinis, Mimosas, and Bloody Marys, plus one dish from the breakfast menu. Guests at the event included Director of the TN card, Jess Gibson, fitness coach Sarah Gorman, author and entrepreneur Jo Wimble-Groves, as well as a host of local social media influencers including Jen and Al Ferguson.

Photos © Jayne Nottage

. . . e n i d and

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 17

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g n i t a r b e l Ce a decade

s s e c c u s of

ushkin Antiques, located on Tunbridge Wells High Street, threw a party for its loyal clients and friends at the end of last month to celebrate its tenth anniversary. “In every one of these ten years which have passed since we started our business, we have seen everything – achievement and disappointments, highs and lows. But one thing we never did was give up,” founder Alexander Pushkin told guests. While guests enjoyed flutes of fizz and canapés he explained how Pushkin started in his ‘small bedroom’ with just £4000 of savings. Alexander and his mother arrived in the UK in 1994 when he was just 8 years old. “I always believed there must have been a reason why we came here with nothing more than a suitcase and a few hundred dollars to our name.” Alexander also paid tribute to his wife: “I couldn’t have done any of this without the support of my amazing wife Olga who has always supported me every step of the way, putting her goals and ambitions second to mine, realising my weaknesses and making them her strengths and at the same time raising our two most amazing children.” Alexander also thanked his ‘incredible’ clients saying: “Your belief in my knowledge and taste gave me the confidence to reach heights I never thought were possible.”

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 19

THE LEN PHILLIPS SWING ORCHESTRA social scene

PRESENTS

Strictly Christmas

A Swingin’ Christmas

Saturday 10 December

Sunday 11 December

Centenary Hall, Benenden School

Tickets: www.benenden.school/events For more information call 01580 236 699

CHAPTERHOUSE THEATRE COMPANY presents

A Christmas Carol 20 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

Friday 2 December - Saturday 3 December Benenden Theatre, Benenden School

social scene

Colour

pop

ne wet and windy Friday night last month the beautiful fashion and gift emporium Luxe Vida on the High Street brought some welcome respite courtesy of its Autumn Gala event. As soon as guests stepped inside, they were greeted by a visual feast of high-octane colour splashed on everything from the store’s gorgeous new A/W fashion pieces and funky tableware, to its super-cool home accessories, candles and bottles of exclusive fragrance. “Luxe Vida’s Autumn Gala was an opportunity to showcase our A/W collections as well as some key new products,” Luxe Vida’s owner Jessica Tucker told SO. “We invited our valued customers as well as some of the town’s bloggers and influencers. We served nibbles and flutes of pink prosecco and also our new non-alcoholic gin. “The store was decorated to reflect our glorious autumn window by the wonderful Pop Pop Papier – our go-to for all our event décor.” While guests browsed the shop’s two floors of goodies, a DJ spun some great tunes to get people partying....

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 21

EDUCATION

Uniting football & academic excellence

In September 2023 Beechwood School will officially launch its new Elite Football Programme. Eileen Leahy meets the scheme’s Director of Football Greg Thurstans and its Head of Coaching Matthew Rose to discover more about this exciting and unique sporting offering for students at the independent co-education school

sk any football mad boy or girl what they want to be when they grow up and chances are they’ll respond ‘a professional Premier League player’. But for most those dreams are usually, well just that... However, Beechwood School on the Pembury Road in Tunbridge Wells has recently invested in the services of Greg Thurstans and Matthew Rose who run the Elite Football Programme which will give those gifted at the game the opportunity to develop their skills and access into the hallowed world of professional football. In September 2023 Greg and Matthew will officially launch their players’ programme which will be open to pupils in Year 3-13. Those who successfully qualify will have the opportunity to train in the school’s new state of the art facilities, which are currently being

22 | November 2022 | SO Magazine

built, and play at the highest level possible – with the chance of being picked by a Premier League club if they go on to be successful. “We combine football and academic excellence,” Greg tells me as we sit down to chat in the late autumn sunshine in the glorious grounds that surround Beechwood which accommodates boys and girls aged 3 to 18. “We both have unrivalled and vast experience,” says Greg. “I am a qualified PE teacher and was Director of Sport at the Royal Russell School in South London where I developed this programme. Matthew is a former Arsenal player and professional football coach and we met when he started training students at the Royal Russell a couple of years ago.” The aim of the Elite Football Programme is to be a unique development hub for aspiring players says Matthew.

“The Elite Football Programme, will take on talented boys and girls each year and incurs no additional fees for parents”

“We both have a passion for football but when we discovered we were both living Tunbridge Wells we thought about pitching the idea of running the Elite Programme here. We met with Alpha Schools who own Beechwood and also its Headmaster Justin Foster-Gandey and thankfully it was a resounding yes,” he continues. “Our big USP is that we really concentrate on each individual’s development. Each player’s football programme will be tailored to their personal needs.” Since they got the green light to go ahead significant investment has gone into getting the pitches ready and ensuring facilities such as a state-of-the-art conditioning suite are ready for the launch in September 2023. “It’s all really exciting,” continues Greg. “This is our foundation year where we are ensuring we have the infrastructure and facilities all

correct for training and fixtures. We’re currently recruiting the appropriate staff and will be holding our first open day for prospective students later this month.” Both Greg and Matthew are very keen to stress however that the Elite Football Programme will in no way compromise pupils’ general education. “We are very determined that it won’t impact children’s academic progress. We hope it will enhance it. Pupils will not lose out on lessons if they qualify for the programme.” Greg says students will have sessions at different times during the week so they will never miss out on the school curriculum. “Lessons will be delivered on a six-week cycle so the programme doesn’t impact the same lesson which is why the days change each time. We’ll ensure we avoid children missing core subjects at certain key ages too. The unique thing we personally offer is understanding the integration of education alongside football,” states Greg. “There are some fantastic schools out there and really good football programmes but no one is really combining the two. As a Director of Sport and a qualified PE teacher I understand the importance of ensuring that someone is very successful in the classroom but the challenge comes in monitoring that progress whilst they are playing high level football. “We offer a bespoke, integrated timetable ensuring the right balance is met from a football and academic perspective. Our other key USP is our individual experience. We know how to do it from all angles. From education to practical experience we have it all covered,” smiles Greg. Matthew adds that because of the relatively small size of the school the pair can offer smaller training squads which will enable them to focus on developing the individual. But they are determined not to be elitist within their new setting. In fact they are focused on ensuring that Elite becomes fully integrated into the school. “We are staff members at Beechwood and we want anyone joining the programme to be engrained in general school life. We do not want pupils to come here only for the football programme. They need to be involved in all

EDUCATION

areas of school life. They have to be that well-rounded student otherwise it doesn’t work. You just end up with a divide.” He also says that the Elite Football Programme, which will take on talented boys and girls each year and incurs no additional fees for parents, is about ‘quality and not quantity’.

The aim of the Elite Football Programme is to be a unique development hub for aspiring football players “We won’t be doing tonnes of matches. We will be selective about who and when we play. We want to be looked upon as a development tool. We will play academy level matches to showcase the players’ talent or we’ll pick one or two prestigious independent schools’

Greg Thurstans, Headmaster Justin Foster-Gandey and Matthew Rose

cups. We’re about supporting the player and what’s best for them.” And because of their contacts in the professional game, Greg and Matthew can also offer pupils unrivalled access to other areas in the football world. “If you don’t make it as a professional footballer then there are so many other avenues to go down,” says Greg. “You can go into physio, photography, performance analysis or nutrition. Matthew sums up the scheme by saying: “I always say sport and life are very similar. You need to be disciplined and take responsibility for own actions. The tools we will give pupils with our training programme will be what they need in life anyway and if they don’t make it as a footballer at least they will have the right tools to do other things.” “What we are offering is really unique. There is nothing like this anywhere else. And the great thing about being based in Tunbridge Wells is that we can access London and the South so easily. This is a really exciting opportunity for those who want to have a pathway into and a career in football. What we’re offering is very unique, and at present no one can compete with us.”

Beechwood Elite Football Programme at a glance: • Fixtures against key academies such as Charlton, Bournemouth and Reading • Entry into ISFA and ESFA national competitions • Entrance into Isthmian Youth League and FA Youth Cup, the most prestigious national competition • Fixtures against the best Independent Schools in the country • Top British University

fixtures including the likes of Loughborough and Oxford • A pathway for players selected for ISFA England national team • Players already at professional clubs are supported by supplementing their existing training • Proven track record of developing players for elite clubs both here in the UK and abroad and securing scholarships to the USA.

Football facilities at Beechwood School: • A state-of-the-art Strength and Conditioning development suite • Brand new stadium box goals • Multi-use Astro

• Grass pitches – investment in drainage, seeding and top soiling to ensure best quality • Indoor Futsal sports hall

For more information and a guided tour, please contact us: Phone: 01892 532 747 Email: g.thurstans@beechwood.org.uk

Greg Thurstans Director of Football: He has over 20 years’ experience in teaching within independent education and eight years as Director of Sport at the Royal Russell School in London. Notably one of the youngest coaches to achieve both outfield and goalkeeping UEFA ‘A’ Licences. He also holds FA youth modules 1,2 and 3. Greg was previously a coach at Crystal Palace Academy, England Independent Schools national U16/18 teams and scout for Brighton FC. As a player he was at Chelsea FC for a period at the age of 21 and went on to play for a number of semi-professional clubs. His educational qualifications include a BSc in Sport Science, a PGCE in secondary PE teaching and Qualified Teacher Status

Matthew Rose Head of coaching and player development: He has over 25 years’ experience in professional football notably a successful career in the Premier League with Arsenal and QPR playing over 300 games. Until recently, he helped keep Barnsley in the Football League Championship as their Assistant Head Coach. He also has experience as an Arsenal Academy coach which saw him place scholars at Arsenal, with other players going onto play for clubs in Europe. Matthew has vast experience in coaching across Europe including FC DAC, which saw him in charge of the implementation of a training regime specific to the needs of developing young players. He holds the UEFA ‘A’ Licence and has attended FA position specific courses. SO Magazine | November 2022 | 23

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Watt’s up?

Royal Tunbridge Wells Together is Lighting Up the Town for Christmas

ILLUMINATING IDEAS RTW Together are going bigger and better with their Christmas lights in the town centre for 2022

id you know that the town centre’s Christmas lights are supplied and funded by town centre businesses, via the RTW Together Business Improvement District? The Christmas season is fast approaching, and at Royal Tunbridge Wells Together HQ, we’re preparing to light up the town once more with a fantastically-festive display of Christmas lights across the town. With last year’s Christmas lights a rousing success for town centre business and local trade, this year we’re going even bigger. On behalf of the town centre businesses we represent, the BID is funding light displays in some brand new locations in 2022, putting on a dazzling show for people who come to visit the town throughout November and

centre scheme for the first year, December. match-funding the display with Among the town centre owners Target Follow. locations getting a festive glowAs for switch-on events, up are Castle Street, where festive fans won’t be star lights will adorn the disappointed – traditional cobbled RTW Together is walkway just off “With last year’s organising not the High Street, Christmas lights one, but two and the precinct a rousing success for Christmas at Fiveways, switch-on events where the trees town centre business in Chapel Place will be dressed and local trade, this and The Pantiles. in beautifullyyear we’re going Either side of The simple twinkling even bigger” Big Reveal in The lights. Calverley Pantiles, also sponsored Road will also see its by RTW Together, you can trees glowing in festive lights, join us for Carols in Chapel funded by your BID. Place, 2pm to 4.30pm, for live The entrance to the Royal music and free hot food and Victoria Place shopping centre drink, and Party in The Pantiles, will also be dressed in a new 8pm to 9.30pm, on Saturday frontage display, funded by November 19, with KMFM, Elf RTW Together for the first and the panto stars. time, ready for visitors and We hope our 2022 residents to enjoy as they finish Christmas lights display will their festive shopping. RTW leave you feeling merry and Together is also bringing The bright this festive season. Pantiles into its main town

www.rtwtogether.com | Email: biddirector@rtwtogether.com | Social media: @rtwtogether

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BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Enjoy a delicious full English and continental breakfast buffet with a very special Christmas visit from the man in red himself Saturday 24th December £17.50

CHRISTMAS PARTIES Perfect for corporate bookings and groups of friends alike, enjoy a night of dinner, disco & drinks 7.30pm - Midnight Thursday 2nd, Friday 3rd & Thursday 8th December from £52.50

THE MAIN EVENT Seasonal trimmings & steaming puds... let us do the cooking (and washing up) for you! Christmas Day 12 Noon - 2.00pm 3 courses, coffee & mince pies

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2.45pm - 5.00pm Welcome drink, four course meal, coffee & petit fours

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SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 25

ADVERTISING

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All with seasonal vegetables 3 courses £30.00 For more information call 01732 452150 Ext 3 2 courses www.knoleparkgolfclub.co.uk £25.00 Per head

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H OV E R

700 LOCAL

PEN

Buy a digital card for £2.99 a month / £24.99 a year or digital + printed card for £29.99 a year

Join our fast growing community supporting local and enjoy rewards at 700 independents in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks and the TN postcodes.

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Join today via our app or at thetncard.com

@thetncard 26 | November 2022 | SO Magazine

10% goes to West Kent Mind

JOIN US FOR A

FAMILY FUN EVENING OF CHRISTMAS CHEER ON THE PANTILES!

! l a e v e R g i B e h T SATURDAY 19TH NOVEMBER 2022 - 5PM

Come and see the unveiling of The Pantiles Traders' Christmas windows and vote for your favourite! PLUS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON BY RTW TOGETHER bid! Carol Singing Mulled Wine LOCAL FOOD STALLS PLUS A VISIT FROM SANTA!

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COMMUNITY

Where’s the best place to go for a Sunday stroll? There are so many places to choose from! We still feel relatively new here so we like to explore new walks, and as the children are getting older and are now buggyfree we can really get the boots muddy.

The Pantiles

The best place to get a cup of coffee? It has to be Fine Grind! Matt and James were the first people we got to know when we moved here. It’s been a pleasure watching their business expand so successfully. Where do you take friends and family when they come to visit? On a sunny weekend a stroll to the buzzing Pantiles where there is always something happening is always a good idea! What’s the night life like where you live? Chapel Place Gin Bar has a great atmosphere – and even better drinks. And being only stumbling distance from home it’s all the better.

water swimming at Bewl Water is possible with TriSwim at weekends. When living in London I swam almost every morning in the Serpentine – there’s no better way to start the day. Where’s the best place to meet friends and socialise? As most of my social time involves the family, a country pub for Sunday lunch is always a good choice. What do you do when you spend a weekend or day off in the local area? We all get our boots on and head out as a family to explore. Why do you love where you live? We love it all: the people, the stunning natural surroundings, the cafes, restaurants, and the fact that we are never bored here! Daniel Boland runs Boland and Sons Fine Tailoring. He is based at One Warwick Park Hotel. For more information email daniel@ bolandandsons.com

This month SO chats to local tailor Daniel Boland about all the places he loves to support locally. Here the talented designer tells us all about his favourite spots to stroll, shop and socialise... Bewl Water

Where do you live? My wife and I live in the village, close to Grove Park. We have two small children so we seem to spend a lot of time there! How long have you lived there and what made you decide to move there? We moved to Tunbridge Wells four years ago, following a short stint in Sevenoaks after fifteen years of living in London. We fell in love with the town’s old High Street, the parks and the flat whites at Fine Grind, so we wanted to be within walking distance of all these. What’s your favourite shop locally? Pushkin Antiques on the High Street. Alexander’s collection of vintage James Bond posters is right up my alley. My lifetime obsession with all things 007 sparked my passion for tailoring from a young age.

The LittleDaniel Green Boland Pantry

“After living in London for 15 years we love being based in Tunbridge Wells now. There is so much to do here – we are never bored!”

Where’s your favourite place to eat locally? On a child-free night I’ll take my wife to Sankey’s as she loves seafood. If the kids get to choose, it’s cake at Juliet’s on the High Street every time.

Pushkin Antiques

Are there any nice views near to where you are? Tunbridge Wells has beautiful views in every direction. We’re still exploring and getting to know the surroundings but I’m looking forward to being able to take the whole family out for long country rides when the children are a little older.

Fine Grind

If you’re looking to relax and unwind, where’s your favourite place to go? I love to get out on my mountain bike and head to Bedgebury. Getting the heart pumping is usually the best remedy for me. I’m very pleased to learn that open SO Magazine | November 2022 | 27

ADVERTISING

How to

EXPERIENCE NORTH KENT COLLEGE without being a student

DID YOU KNOW THAT MANY ASPECTS OF THE COLLEGE ARE OPEN TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY? Join us for a bite to eat in our fantastic restaurants or pamper yourself in the professional salons, you can support the progression of our students whilst having a great experience!

OUR RESTAURANT

The View includes both a bistro and a restaurant, open Tuesday to Friday. The bistro is open from 10:30 for a selection of barista coffees, impressive tea selection and a range of other beverages. The comfortable setting and friendly service provide a great atmosphere to enjoy homemade cakes and savouries. The View Restaurant offers a classic lunch service, from 12pm -3pm (last order 2pm) with a freshly prepared seasonal menu, dishes of the day and comprehensive drink list served at your table. A dinner service also available on Thursdays from 6pm – 9:30pm (last order 8pm). The restaurant and bistro boast a fantastic panoramic view of the rolling Kent countryside, quite simply stunning.We provide complimentary parking and when you arrive announce yourself at reception and we will come and meet you and escort you, in the lift, to the restaurant where you will enjoy a warm welcome, fantastic service and an experience that you won’t forget. Don’t forget to book in for your Christmas lunch! Head to our website northkent.ac.uk for more information

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Have you had a change in circumstances? Are you currently going through a divorce or bereavement and don’t know where to start when it comes to sorting out your finances? At times like this you can find that you suddenly have to deal with the family finances when you haven’t been involved with them before. You may find that you have been left with piles of information or very little information and not know where to begin. During what is already a stressful time, being left to deal with the financial affairs can be daunting and an added stress. Typically we find that people have a range of financial holdings, including pensions, shares, & property which can have complex taxation and legal implications and often it’s not easy for an individual to grasp the overall picture and know the best way forward. I have 30 years of financial planning experience and provide my clients with the guidance and reassurance needed to give them the confidence and security to overcome challenges, plan for the future and to move forward into the next stage of their lives with their financial affairs. I have written a checklist on what to do when someone passes away and also a blog about who to turn to for financial advice, you can read more at www.grovewood.co.uk/news If you’re going through a divorce or bereavement and would like to have a no obligation chat about how I can help you with your financial planning then please call 01825 750750, or visit www.govewoodwealth.co.uk.

Lynne Gadsden FPFS Grovewood Wealth Management Ltd

OUR SALONS AND TREATMENTS

Our newly approved Lee Stafford Academy based at Tonbridge campus offers a comprehensive range of hairdressing and barbering treatments and services, to the public. They use a range of high-end professional brands that deliver results, all treatments are observed and monitored by highly professional lecturers, and should you want to try anything, find out more or order any of the products used during your visit, you can ask the student you booked in with, the class tutor or the hair & beauty reception. During their studies the students need to experience a high number of hours working in a salon environment.We can offer you a range of treatments with high levels of service and results for a fraction of the salon cost! You can book by calling our welcoming Tonbridge salon reception on 01732 372811, our reception is open from Monday to Wednesday

28 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

Grovewood Wealth Management Ltd is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Community

n i s ’ e Sh n o i h fas The TN card is the Tunbridge Wells loyalty scheme that rewards shoppers for supporting local. This month its founder Jess Gibson chats to Sophie Bland, owner of bod & ted, the award-winning independent womenswear boutique at 70 High Street, Tunbridge Wells which recently won a coveted Drapers award for Womenswear Independent of the Year...

Sophie, you opened bod & ted with your mother Yvonne in 2008. How did your retail venture come about? I was working in a boutique in Salcombe, Devon during my university holidays. The owner was moving away and mentioned she was looking for someone to take over the lease of the building, so over a glass of wine with my mum, bod & ted was born. We named it after my sisters; bod & ted are their nicknames. We opened the first bod & ted in Salcombe in 2008 when I was in my last year at university and then we opened in Tunbridge wells in 2010. Where does your love of fashion come from? I have always loved fashion and was constantly trawling vintage shops in London and Brighton as a teenager whenever I got the chance. My mum grew up in London in the 60s and 70s and was a real bohemian. She had the coolest wardrobe filled with mini dresses, hot pants, platforms and Afghan coats – I wish she’d kept more of it! Providing a personalised service is really important to you. How do you help women find the right clothes for them? We are constantly on the lookout for an exciting emerging designer and quite often are one of the first UK stockists of a brand. We

“By shopping independent you know that you are buying into slow fashion”

DETAILS: WHERE: 70 High Street, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1YB VISIT FOR: An award-winning mix of exclusive designers and up-and-coming brands. MEMBER REWARD: A complimentary artisan soap

Jess Gibson

Founder the TN Card

What do you put your success down to? There are so many different factors – obviously key is our wonderful team and our suppliers. I also think we offer something that cannot be found anywhere else in Tunbridge Wells – or indeed further afield – thanks to our edit of the very best brands which helps create a fresh and exclusive collection. The environment is laidback and approachable, meaning our regulars trust us implicitly to find them the perfect piece. Our online shopping experience is an extension of this and we place customer service at the forefront.

attend shows in London, Paris and Copenhagen and visit all of our supplier showrooms up to four times a year. Designers will also contact us if they think their new collection would sit nicely alongside our current brand portfolio. Providing a personalised service is really important to you. How do you help women find the right clothes for them? We work with our clients to find pieces that really flatter their shapes and colouring and fit their lifestyle. Every member of the team is a Store Stylist and is on hand to help find the perfect pair of jeans, do a seasonal update or find a statement dress for a special event. We get to know our customers so well we tend to know what will suit them before it even hits the shop floor, regularly texting or calling them when pieces we know they’ll love arrive! We were so sorry to hear about the loss of your mum to Covid earlier this year. How have you kept the shop going through such difficult times? Thank you, it was a massive shock and has been a very difficult time. I think first and foremost it is down to the amazing team at bod & ted, who really are more like family. Also, my children who are pure sunshine and my husband who is my biggest supporter. My lovely dad has become my new sounding board

What do you love about trading in Tunbridge Wells? You could not choose a more perfect location than the Last month Sophie and her Tunbridge Wells High Street. The team welcomed loyal clients mix of independent restaurants, and local influencers in order cafés and shops creates such a to officially launch the store’s lovely community and we’re so new autumn/winter happy to be a part of it. collection…

HAPPY BIRTHDAY bod & ted!

Why should we support our independent boutiques? Firstly supporting independent puts money back into your local economy. By shopping independent you know that you are buying into slow fashion and getting something unique and exclusive. By very carefully and thoughtfully curating our collections, we have done the hard work for you. along with my sisters – the original bod & ted. It helps that the brand has gone from strength to strength this year – and that’s all down to our wonderful customers. Congratulations on being named Drapers’ Womenswear Independent of the Year.

How do you reward TN card members for supporting local? For purchases over £50, TN card members receive an artisan soap of their choice free of charge from British brands Arthouse Unlimited and Brick Sixty or from luxury Sicilian brand Ortigia. SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 29

Food & Drink

“Me and My Girl

TWODS return to tread the boards at the Assembly Hall this month with their production of Me and My Girl from November 15-19. Here the show’s director David Fawcett tells SO magazine why this version, which has been modernised by actor Stephen Fry, is still such a relevant and joyful watch – despite the huge amount of work that goes on behind the scenes...

is one of the

best musicals ever written”

HOW TO JOIN TWODS

e and My Girl is what could be termed a ‘traditional’ musical with a twist. It was originally written in the 1930s by L Arthur Rose and Douglas Furber – with music by Noel Gay – and then rewritten and modernised by Stephen Fry in 1984. However I believe the show still keeps its 1930s feel despite having some 21st century humour laced through it. This particular version of the rags-to-riches tale has the glamour of Hollywood mixed with the comedy of US sitcom Friends. When casting for Me and My Girl I am sure most directors have in their mind the performance of Robert Lindsay, who played the Bill Snibson in the successful West End run some years ago. Well the good news is TWODS (Tunbridge Wells Operatic & Dramatic Society) is very lucky to have similar talent in the Society including Mike Knell who we cast as Snibson. His character’s girlfriend, Sally Smith, is being played by a brilliant singer and dancer, Brooke Wells – the pair have great chemistry between them. The other principal roles are being played by 30 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

“It’s so fantastic to have the opportunity to recreate such a massive hit from the West End and Broadway”

experienced members of TWODS giving me a strong cast to work with. We also have 88-year-old Colin Moore, a bastion of TWODS who is appearing in his swansong show, as Sir Jasper, an elderly, very deaf aristocrat. No typecasting there! The show follows the tale of Bill Snibson who discovers he is the true heir to the Earl of Hareford. His newly-acquired aristocratic relations try to educate him in the ways of the gentry and separate him from his beloved Lambeth girl Sally. The result is comical mayhem between a host of hilarious characters, with toe-tapping songs including ‘The Sun Has Got His Hat On’, ‘Doing the Lambeth Walk’, and of course ‘Me and My Girl’. Rehearsals are going well but it’s fair to say they’re often frenetic! This is due to the time constraints of getting big production numbers up to scratch. Most of this I have left to my brilliant choreographer, Bertie Witt, though who is doing a wonderful job. Covid is still proving to be a challenge with various members laid low with it when they really want to be rehearsing. The show is also quite prop heavy – but many of these – including a full-sized Rolls Royce –

don’t arrive until a few days before the curtain goes up! But it is so fantastic to have the opportunity to recreate such a massive hit from the West End and Broadway, which is a multiple Olivier and Tony award winner and one of the best feel-good musicals ever written. There are lots for the ensemble and dancers to get their teeth into – including the challenge of putting a full-scale musical on in effectively less than 50 hours! We hope you come along to see it – and enjoy Me and My Girl! About the Director: David Fawcett spent four years in the Manchester and West End productions of Les Miserables and now produces and performs in the UK’s leading musical theatre concert, Beyond the Barricade. Locally he has recently directed Spamalot, Boeing Boeing and Leading Ladies for Trinity Theatre, and Carousel and Sister Act for TWODS.

You can get in touch via an online form, and they will call or email you back with details of TWODS’ next New Members’ Welcome Workshop.You need to come along to a workshop if you want to join the society, and you need to join it before you can audition for the show. We’re an all-inclusive society, so we welcome people with many different creative and organisational talents not just those on the stage! TWODS’ performance of Me and My Girl takes place from November 15-19 at the Assembly Hall theatre.Tickets start from £25.There will be additional matinee performances at 2.30pm on 16 and 19 November. Bucket collections will take place after each performance to raise funds for The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre in Tunbridge Wells. To book visit www.twods.org/booknow or call 01892 530613.

TWODS member of ten years, Lynn White will be playing the part of The Duchess and is dedicating her performance to her late Aunt – Evelyn Eacott – who played the lead role of Sally in the professional touring production of Me and My Girl in 1948. Pictured is Evelyn on a publicity shoot with Lynn’s mother Joy Eacott (who was also in the show) sporting two-piece swimsuits which they made themselves from butchers’ apron fabric, as it was one of the few materials which wasn’t rationed at that time!

Plans for Christ mas? Celebrate in style at the Bottle House Inn in Penshurst where head chef Gary Jarvis has prepared this cracker of a menu. Backed up by a wonderful wine list, great ales, log fires, a private room and stylish restaurant oozing Christmas charm, there’s no better place to be jolly this season.

Call now to book on 01892 870 306 thebottlehouseinnpenshurst.co.uk The Bottle House Inn, Coldharbour Road, Penshurst, Kent, TN11 8ET

WEDDINGS

How to create your

dream wedding This month a special weddings event is taking place on November 20 which will see local experts from One Warwick Park and Salomons sharing their advice on all the key things those tying the knot need to know. Molly Miller finds out more about it – and reveals why winter weddings are so popular…

ccording to UK Weddings, over 41,000 ceremonies take place in the South East of England every year. And while most nuptials happen during the summer, there’s certainly a rising popularity for winter celebrations in December, January, and February. There’s a real advantage to getting married during the chillier months: availability is better, there are less issues with getting hold of suppliers and the colder weather helps to create an undeniably cosier ambience in your venue of choice. If you’re recently engaged and feeling a little overwhelmed about where to start with all of this then the good news is this month there will be a special wedding showcase at Salomons Estate where experts will be on hand to provide you with all the information and inspiration you need about tying the knot – whatever time of year you decide upon. The event takes place on November 20 and will be headed up by the expert Elite Leisure Collection teams who run weddings and events at both One Warwick Park Hotel and Salomons Estate. Both venues are finalists in three categories at the Kent Wedding Awards for 2022/23. These include Wedding Venue of the Year – Heritage, for Salomons Estate and Wedding Venue of the Year for One

“Remember it’s your big day so do what you want to do”

Warwick Park Hotel. Salomons has also been nominated for the best in-house events team category, so Fiona Owens and her team certainly know their stuff when it comes to planning the perfect nuptials. Here, Fiona shares a few key tips for you to consider if you plan on walking down the aisle…

Get your priorities right The first thing to consider is budget. Next is writing a guest list of people you would like to attend your day. With regard to your budget ensure you prioritise the things that are most important to you on your wedding day. For example, the photographer, food and décor.

One Warw Park Hotel ick an Salomons d Estate are o ffering

50% off ven

ue h

ire for wedding s in January and Februa ry 2023. S ee @onewarw ickp @salomons_ ark and estate for more informat ion

TIS THE SEASON TO GET MARRIED

Have you got your heart set on a winter wedding? Award-winning venue Salomons Estate is hosting a complimentary open day on November 20 from 10.00am to 2.00pm, where newly engaged couples who want to say 'I do' can start their journey to wedded bliss. The Victorian country house has plenty to explore, as guests will be met by recommended suppliers and beautifully-dressed ceremony and reception rooms, perfect for envisioning the big day. Meet the team and take a stroll around 36 acres of picturesque grounds that could form the exclusive backdrop to your very own winter wedding. Email mslevents@salomons-estate. com to register your interest.

Be practical

Create a spreadsheet to keep track of payments, deadlines and everything you need to book and organise. It’s always worth asking friends and family for help as you may have a creative pal who could create your table plan and name cards or put you in touch with a reliable specialist supplier. Decisions, decisions Book your venue first. Once you have this in place everything else will follow. We recommend sending out your ‘Save the Dates’ no later than 12 months prior to the event and formal invites no later than six months before the event. Book in your photographer and

videographer if you’re having one as soon as you can. Both can get very booked up in advance.

Venue checklist

Top things to look for: • Onsite accommodation or nearby accommodation • Are there any additional fees (eg service charge) that you need to be aware of ? • What does the venue provide? Do you need to source your own cutlery, crockery, linen? • Do you have to use the venue’s suppliers or are you able to use whichever you want? • Is there flexibility in the packages offered from the venue? In other words can you adapt the menu to choose you? • Are there good photo opportunities on the inside of the venue, as obviously you can never guarantee the weather!

Try before you buy Ensure your venue or caterer holds wedding tasters for you to sample the food and its quality. If you are having additional evening guests, ensure you cater for them, too. As a venue we recommend catering for no less than 80% of your evening numbers, as once people have a drink then they are likely to want something to eat. Most weddings do go for the formal, seated wedding breakfast, but to be honest it’s up to YOU what you want to do! It could be an informal BBQ , a pizza van or interactive carved roast at the table!

Salomons Estate & One Warwick Park Hotel are owned by the Elite Leisure Collection who also own SO Magazine 32 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

DIZZI PERSIAN CUISINE Probably the best kebabs in town!

Buy 1 Get 1 FREE (Main Course Only) Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday

10 %off For TN C ard Member s

Why not come and try our delicious Hot & Cold Starters, Stews, Seafoods, Grills and Kabobs? “Superb service, delicious food beautifully served and lovely surroundings.” “The ambience & vibes truly give that genuine Persian feel.”

We are open 7 days a week from noon until midnight. Please book early to avoid disappointment!

01892 520 220 37 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells TN4 8AA

www.dizzipersiancuisine.co.uk

Food & Drink

A recipe for success…

Anna Stanford, a popular local food blogger with over 110K followers on social media, has just had her first cookery book published. Eileen Leahy meets the mother of three and selftaught cook to find out why her faff-free meals are proving to be so popular….

“S

haring my family recipes just started off as a bit of a hobby,” smiles Anna Stanford as we sit down to chat at Juliet’s café on Tunbridge Wells High Street. We’re here to talk about the publication of her new book Anna’s Family Kitchen: Navigating Through Food, Faff and Family which was recently published by Mezze and reflects the type of fuss-free yet delicious and impressive looking

34 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

“I think people like my recipes because they are so adaptable and relatable and come from a real family kitchen”

crowd-pleasing dishes Anna has become so well known for via her Instagram account Anna’s Family Kitchen. “The recipes just seemed to be relatable to people,” she continues. “I obviously love cooking and am self-taught but the monotony of cooking endless family meals can be quite overwhelming for a lot of people – even for me at times!” She says she launched her Instagram and Facebook accounts four years ago and they naturally grew because Anna was all about

sharing real recipes that would suit families of all sizes – and tastes. “I started sharing my family’s favourite recipes but also experimenting with how to switch up traditional dishes too. My daughter became a vegetarian when she was 12 and was a slightly faddy eater anyway so I was always having to tweak recipes as I didn’t want to cook separate meals for everyone. “Despite my two boys being meat eaters, I found a format where I was able to create dishes that pleased everyone. Supplementing meat with other things like fish lent itself to a lot of Asian inspired food and curries. In my previous job I’d travelled extensively all over Asia so I had a good grounding in a variety of things you could make.” Anna adds that some of her followers wait for her to post a recipe before going shopping while others follow her for tips on how to use up leftovers or

Food & Drink

simply just for inspiration. “I receive so many lovely messages telling me that I’ve changed the way people cook for their family. They tell me they were stuck in a rut until they started following me!” Anna says she started sharing these recipes daily on social media and things started to take off – especially during lockdown when people were stuck at home and the highlight of the day was cooking dinner – especially during lockdowns. Anna, who cites Jamie Oliver and Nigel Slater as big influences, says she did Ready Steady Cook style ‘What are We Making For Dinner Tonight’ Instagram lives where she’d come up with a recipe idea after one of her selected followers told her what ingredients they had to work with. She also introduced virtual cookery lessons – which have since become something she does in real life now with Uni students and children. This USP is what she believes gives her 400plus recipes – and now book – an edge compared to others on the market. “I wanted to do a book that had never been done before.

I think what people like about my food is that it’s faff-free. I’m a working mum with three children and run a real family kitchen. I think that was definitely the appeal in terms of getting a book deal.” The 70 recipes in Anna’s Family Kitchen are divided into five chapters, covering all aspects of everyday challenges faced in the kitchen. These include Light Bites & Snacks, Quick & Easy Weekdays, Weekends & Gatherings, Fakeaways, and Cook Clever, which is full of useful hints and tips to save money, batch cook ahead of time and utilise your freezer to make sure you aren’t wasting food. Anna, who did most of the food styling in her new book and also does some commercial work for brands, reveals that her main goals with the new book were that recipes were simple and easy to follow and had as many variations as possible. Dishes include Beef Massaman Curry, Summer Roast Chicken, Harissa Hake & Couscous Traybake, Chana Masala and Foolproof Bread. And does she have an idea for a second book? “Oh yes, I do so watch this space!”

@annasfamilykitchen www.annasfamily kitchen.com Anna’s Family Kitchen retails at £25 and is available from www.annasfamily kitchen.com and all good book shops.

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 35

FOOD & DRINK

Food with thought….

Gary Jarvis

Following the news that talented chef Gary Jarvis has taken over the kitchen at The Bottle House in Penshurst, Eileen Leahy went along to savour a flavour of his exciting new menu that’s big on seasonality and ingenuity…

t’s a late autumn Friday evening when my husband and I pay a visit to The Bottle House. We cross the threshold of this charming 15th century inn located on Cold Harbour Road in Penshurst and step into the bar area which is bustling with customers drinking at the bar and happily dining in one of the historic pub’s charming cosy dining nooks. It’s fantastic to see the place so packed – you’d never know there was a cost of living crisis given the amount of people enjoying themselves… The Bottle House has always been a popular country pub, but it would appear to be even more so now thanks to the fact the talented chef Gary Jarvis has been brought on board to oversee the menu.

36 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

Gary’s epicurean pedigree is nothing short of impressive. He has worked at The Ritz in London, The Curlew at Bodiam and was also Executive Chef at The Lyle in Tunbridge Wells. But the good news is he’s brought most of his team over to work their culinary magic at The Bottle House so hopefully we’re in for a good night. On spotting us arriving, the pub’s amiable host and manager of the past 30 years Paul Hammond greets us like old friends and sits us at a lovely table by the log burner. He tells us that Friday nights are cocktail nights and he can highly recommend the Damson Vodka Gimlet (£8.50) – a delicious confection of damson vodka, distilled on the premises, simple syrup and lime juice. I willingly oblige while my husband opts for a pint of ale. We settle back to look at the

menu: on first glance it’s clear that Gary hasn’t wanted to alienate the pub’s loyal clientele so you’ll still find lots of classics on it including hearty burgers, fish and chips and steak options. But look a little closer and you’ll see there’s a subtle refinement going on here too with grander dishes such as Truffle Poached Chicken with Potato Terrine (£16.50) and Mussels with Chrorizo, Tomatoes and Basil (£10) included. There’s also decent options for vegetarians and vegans including Roasted Cauliflower Steak with Raisins, Capers & Spiced Coconut Broth (£14.50) and Grilled Aubergine with Tomato, Mozzarella, Basil & Olive (£14). And despite the grander foodie offering the prices are still pretty good value. In addition to the main seasonal menu there’s also a Chef ’s Specials offering which on the evening we visit boasts a

“You’ll still find lots of classics on The Bottle House’s menu but look a little closer and you’ll see there’s a subtle refinement going on here too with grander dishes such as Truffle Poached Chicken with Potato Terrine now included”

trio of delicious dishes. These include Red Pepper Soup with Black Olive, Basil & Homemade Bread (£6), an indulgent Fillet of Seabream with Mussels, Crushed Potatoes and Champagne Sauce (£17.50) and a decadent Chocolate Brownie with Raspberry & Vanilla Ice Cream (£7). I decide upon the intriguing sounding Gin Cured Salmon with Rhubarb Tasters & Pumpernickel (£12) while my husband, who has recently become a vegetarian, opts for Mushrooms on Toast (£8.50). Now as plain as this sounds on paper it is in fact, he says, a taste triumph. The mushrooms are rich, sweet and creamy served on a thick crusty tranche of brioche toast which is piled high with slivers of sweet peppers and a sprinkling of fresh tarragon. My smoked salmon is expertly cured and complements the sweet pops of rhubarb purée perfectly. Added texture comes courtesy of sprinklings of bread. For our main courses we both decide upon fish dishes. My husband says the aforementioned Fillet of Seabream with

FOOD & DRINK

Champagne Sauce sounds far too good to pass up while I am curious about the inclusion of salted grapes served with the Filet of Hake and celeriac purée. I’m happy to report the latter is an ingenius pairing. Both plates are superb and any fine dining establishment would be hard pushed to beat them. We enjoy a nice couple of glasses of the recommended Wine of the Month: Anima Osco, a refreshing Italian white which cuts through the seabream’s decadent sauce and equally complements the buttery pan fried hake. When it comes to dessert I have to declare defeat but my husband already knows what he’s going for:

the Chocolate Delice served with Blackberries (£8). “Shall I bring two spoons with that?” smiles Paul knowing that it will be futile to resist. “Yes please,” I reply and sure enough our meal ends with us duelling for the last bite of this delectable dessert. It’s fair to say that Gary and his team are certainly stepping up to the plate when it comes to delivering quality, inspiring and utterly delicious food for The Bottle House’s loyal and discerning diners and we cannot wait to see what they have up their sleeve for Christmas! thebottlehouseinnpenshurst.co.uk

In addition to the main seasonal menu there’s also a Chef’s Specials offering which on the evening we visit boasts a trio of delicious dishes including an indulgent Fillet of Seabream with Mussels, Crushed Potatoes and Champagne

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 37

social scene

Photos © Key & Quill

Robin Read serves up a feast at the launch of The Counter

e h t e t s a T

e c n e r e f dif

38 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

elebrated chef Robin Read launched his new pop-up restaurant The Counter at Daily Bread in Rusthall on October 20. Open every Thursday to Saturday evening until December 24, each dinner service will offer guests a seasonal sixcourse tasting menu using the best local, wild and foraged produce. During his career Robin has worked for some of the culinary greats including Albert and Michel Roux, Nico Ladenis and Marco Pierre White. And for the past 16 years he has been Group Executive Chef of the Firmdale Hotel Group in London, overseeing the adventurous menus at the Soho Hotel, Charlotte Street Hotel and Ham Yard Hotel. And now the Langton Greenbased chef is bringing a taste of his signature dishes, which are inspired by local products and the seasons, to the people of Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells and beyond. A passionate supporter of artisan farmers, growers and producers, Robin’s menu at The Counter includes delicious delicacies such as venison from Eridge Park and wild porcini mushrooms from the woods around Rusthall and Langton Green. Menus start from £60 per person. For more information and to book visit www. thecounterhomeedition.com or follow @the_counter_tw

social scene

k ? in e old dr tim ry C ed ur ry o D has yo ve le rc e e Ka pu rv led EE hen se il FR itc o ch a ry k t t ly ring eve an ct offe th W rfe are er wi pe nate amb r O Ch Designer German & British Kitchens Projected Managed In House Showroom Tunbridge Wells Skilled, Dedicated Design & Installation from start to finish CALL US NOW FOR A FREE DESIGN SERVICE 01892 330 000 www.ornatekitchens.co.uk studio@ornatekitchens.co.uk 17 Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2LU

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 39

ADVERTISING

WHAT'S ON AT BALFOUR WINERY

WINTER EVENTS Dining Club Music Sessions - Saturdays in November and December Enjoy the sounds of live music, and the taste of our new winter menu with our four-course dinner and a tasting of Balfour Wine. Winemakers' Dinner - Friday 11th November To celebrate the end of harvest, we would be delighted for you to join us for our very special black tie Annual Winemakers’ Dinner. Oysters and Fizz - Thursday 8th December Join us along with the Oyster Meister for a unique and delicious culinary experience with canapés and Balfour Wine.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING Our Christmas shop opens on Thursday 24th November. Come and browse our Cellar Door shop for fabulous gift ideas including:

VISITING BALFOUR WINERY

- Our bespoke Christmas Hampers

Winter at Balfour Winery is a great opportunity to take an invigorating walk on our beautiful 400-acre Estate before warming up in our tasting room. Make sure to try a tasting of three or six of our Balfour Wines alongside a delicious baked Camembert as part of your platter.

- Tour experiences vouchers

We are open daily from 10am.

- 25% off selected cases of Balfour Wine

- And so much more!

Book online at www.balfourwinery.com | @balfourwinery | 01622 832794 | Balfour Winery, Five Oak Lane, Staplehurst, Kent, TN12 0HT

TWODS M&MG So Magazine Ad 148x255mm + 3mm bleed 300DPI.indd 1

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23/09/2022 16:16

GIFT GUIDE

Give the gift of luxury this Christmas

Get your festive shopping off to a stylish start with these beautiful present ideas for all the family

For her

ARM CANDY Selection of Catherine de Crevecoeur bracelets, £36 each, all available at www. catherinedc.com

GOLDEN EYE All Gold Stackers Stack - A gorgeous trio of gold-filled beaded stacking bracelets. Price: £134. Exclusively available on www.bellajane jewellery.co.uk

ALL THAT GLITTERS Trefoil 0.86cts Diamond Platinum Earrings - Handcrafted in our onsite workshop, this pair of 0.86cts platinum diamond earrings consist of three round brilliant cut diamonds and is a signature piece in our Trefoil collection. - £4,540 Platinum Initial Diamond Set Pendant - A timeless yet contemporary take on the traditional initial pendant, this is designed to sit perfectly with your existing jewellery collection. - £3,050

LOOK OF LUXE Lauren Jumper in Cerise (other colours available) £50; Commando Faux Leather Leggings £99 and Venus Ring (Labradorite Gemstone in 24 carat gold plated setting) £36. All available at www.loveandluxe.uk

Two Row Platinum and 18ct Yellow Gold Skyline Pendant - Our Skyline Collection, inspired by the iconic and contemporary architecture of striking city skylines and modern cities. This pendant design is the perfect contrast of glistening diamonds beside the elegant 18ct Yellow Gold bar, our first two row design for the Skyline collection. £1,620 All available from G Collins & Sons www.gcollinsandsons.com

SO Magazine | November 2022 | 41

GIFT GUIDE

A Piece of History from The Diamond Setter What is hallmarking?

Have you ever considered the hallmarks that are struck or lasered onto your jewellery? Precious metals are rarely used in their purest form and usually alloyed with other metals for workability, durability, and wearability. But it isn't possible to detect an article's precious metal content by sight or touch. Fortunately, it is compulsory in the UK that gold, silver, platinum, and palladium are independently tested and hallmarked by a thirdparty institution to make sure that every piece of jewellery made in this country conforms to all legal standards of purity or fineness. This guarantees provenance by telling you as a consumer where the piece was assayed or tested, what the article is made of and who sent the article for hallmarking. Nowhere in the world are consumers more highly protected than in the UK.

and even who the maker was. It is so heart-warming to uncover the history of a piece that a customer has inherited from a loved one. They find it fascinating."

Awareness

A consultation with The Diamond Setter can pave the way to learning more about hallmarking. "It is surprising to meet people who are unaware of hallmarking in the UK. People should always look for the hallmark when buying jewellery and ask the store what each symbol represents. This will ensure they are getting what they pay for." says Lorraine of The Diamond Setter. Hallmarking also helps uncover the origins of older jewellery. As Gavin, Master Jeweller and Diamond Setter says, “When customers bring us an inherited piece of jewellery, we can trace the year it was brought or made

Platinum Jubilee Commemorative Mark – the first and probably the last in our lifetime. The British Hallmarking Council announced last year, "Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will become the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, seventy years of service, having acceded to the throne in 1952. To celebrate the occasion, the body which oversees UK hallmarking, the British Hallmarking Council, has sanctioned a commemorative component mark." We have been including this special mark since it launched in November last year. When The Queen sadly died in September, the commemorative mark was abruptly withdrawn, but public

A CUT ABOVE Made to measure shirt experience at One Warwick Park with Boland and Sons Prices start from £225, www.bolandand sons.com

appeals from jewellers and consumers alike prompted the Assay Office to consult with the King's Assay Master. Consequently, the four Assay Offices of the UK brought back the Platinum Jubilee Mark and it will remain available until the end of 2022, as originally scheduled. “We are so thrilled to be able to continue to offer this unique service to our valued customers. This is only the 7th commemorative mark to be released in history, the like of which we may never see again in our lifetime", say Gavin and Lorraine.

The Memory Collection

So, if you wish to own or gift a one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery with Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Commemorative Mark, head to The Diamond Setter website or their Studio at Salomons Estate. There you can view ‘The Memory Collection’, a series of one-off pieces created by Gavin and Lorraine and perhaps treat yourself or a loved one to one of a handpicked selection of diamonds and gemstones to treasure for life and pass on to future generations.

For him SLEEP IN STYLE Jersey PJs, £80, The White Company Cotton jersey robe, £69, The White Company www.thewhite company.com

MAKING SCENTS Tom Ford Ombré Leather Eau de Parfum, 50ml, £94, available in store from Fenwick, Tunbridge Wells

SAY CHEERS TO GOOD BEER Gun Brewery Tour and Tastings from £20 www.gun brewery.co.uk

42 | November 2022 | SO Magazine

TASTE THE DIFFERENCE Balfour Celebration Hamper: includes a £130 winery experience voucher, three Vintage Collection wines, Pink Fizz (rosé wine in a can!), Jake’s IPA and Lager, cheese, charcuterie, chutney and more. £345, Balfour Winery, www. balfourwinery.com

Gavin has been creating jewellery for more than 20 years both in the UK and internationally. His wealth of experience includes working for the Rolex watch company in the early 2000s. The Diamond Setter offers a noobligation consultation for creating bespoke jewellery, wedding and engagement rings, redesign and remodelling and any jewellery repair jobs. Gavin’s workshop is onsite, meaning no jewellery leaves the property unless it is going for hallmarking. They also have an onsite laser engraving service. Gavin and Lorraine look forward to welcoming you at The Diamond Setter Studio soon.

The Diamond Setter 01892 458 042 www.thediamondsetter.co.uk

GIFT GUIDE

For kids HAT’LL DO NICELY Christmas Pudding Beanie £16, The White Company www.thewhite company.com

SOFT TOUCH Jolly Gingerbread Fred, £16; Mitzi Reindeer, £27.00, Sugar Plum Fairy, £26. All Jelly Cat, available from www.jellycat.com and Jeremy’s Home Store

WHEELS IN MOTION Ride on Car £120, The White Company www.thewhite company.com

For you

DEAR SANTA Personalised letter to Santa Christmas Stocking, £36 and sack £45, includes free personalisation, Lime Tree London, www. limetreelondon.com

DINE IN STYLE Can’t decide? Then why not treat yourself or a loved one to some vouchers to experience afternoon tea or a lunch at One Warwick Park (from £25 pp) or Salomons (from £22.50)? www.onewarwickpark. co.uk www.salomons-estate.com

BLUE FOR YOU ‘Winter Wonderland’ fused glass curve (available in many colours), £28 each, Glass by Claudia www.claudiawiegand.co.uk

FESTIVE FLOURISH Wreath and candle making workshops at The Outdoor Candle Company, £85, Candle making kits, £24, www.theoutdoor candlecompany.com

FIRED UP I AM WORTHY Love lights scented candle, £32, Love Up, www.loveup.shop

ILLUMINATING IDEAS 3D Wire star lights, £19.50 and £29.50, Lime Tree London, www.limetree london.com

ALL SET House of Hackney Majorelle & Wildcard Dinner Plate, £26, Anthropologie, available in store on Tunbridge Wells High Street and www.anthropologie.com SO Magazine | November 2022 | 43

BUSINESS

“I want to do things differently with my new

hair salon” made me appreciate nature and the countryside so much – and also the need to protect it. “Having worked in the industry since I was 14 I know how much waste there is in hairdressing. Plastic bottles, hair, foils – all of it goes in the bin. I found it upsetting that we were doing so many beautiful things with people’s hair and yet at the end of it we were throwing pretty much everything away. I thought there must be a way we can change that. That was the motivation for me opening a sustainable salon. “Currently we are zero to landfill – nothing goes in the bin here. We recycle everything and have so little general waste that I had to ask the bin people to stop collecting weekly

Eileen Leahy meets hairdresser Charly Denton to discover why she is so committed to being a sustainable salon – without compromising on customer service or the quality of her products

harly Denton is determined that her new hairdressing salon Denton’s Art of Hair, which opened in July and is located in Camden Road, is as sustainable as possible. From opting for 100% organic and vegan hair products, to using recyclable highlighting foils and compostable business cards, and airdrying towels instead of tumble drying them, Denton’s Art of Hair is certainly going that extra eco mile. Even the salon’s toilet paper is made from unbleached bamboo and its appointments booking system is carbon neutral. “I’m passionate about sustainability and believe we can make a difference to the planet, without compromising on delivering clients a luxurious designer experience when they visit the salon,” states Charly. Having trained at the Vidal Sassoon Academy, Charly – who started out as a Saturday girl in her local salon in Maidstone when she

44 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

was just 14 – has since gone on to work as a Wella colour specialist as well as in numerous salons including Leigh Roberts and The Chapel here in Tunbridge Wells. “I started at The Chapel when I was 19 and was one of their youngest stylists. I was there for 11 years and left during the pandemic to go freelance. I really enjoyed my time there. “I mainly did mobile work after that as a bit of a stop gap and that obviously became really busy and popular during the lockdowns. In between those I was also doing one day a week in the Leigh Roberts salon as I wanted to keep my hand in on salon work. Working there made me think ‘I want something like this but I want to do it differently’. “I live in West Malling and it is absolutely beautiful. Living there has definitely made me love and respect the environment more. When you live in the greenbelt you realise how lucky you are. I often go out walking with my dog and that’s

as the carbon waste they were emitting just to stop at the salon was so pointless.” What happens to the hair she cuts off I ask her? “That’s a really interesting one actually as most of it is made into something called a hair boom. They are then used to clean up oil spills in the ocean and also made into building materials and used in agriculture.” Charly explains that her business is part of the Green Salon Collective – an organisation of sustainable salons – which she pays a green fee towards so she can encourage recycling for her clients – many of whom have followed her to the new salon. “Any product you buy in the salon you can then bring it back to be recycled. We also run a refill station here too and you can get a small discount as a result. The brands we stock – Davines and epiic -– are both organic and vegan. They are really beautiful, effective products which totally respect the environment and reflect my ethos. So that’s a win-win for me. “My eventual goal is to have a sign up saying ‘when you enter through this door your carbon footprint will be zero’. That’s what I would love. Imagine spending three hours here and not emitting anything at all?” In fact the salon’s sustainable approach begins as soon as you walk over the threshold. Customers are welcomed with a cup of freshly brewed loose-leaf tea or Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance coffee (no plastic pods) and instead of being offered a stack of thumbed through paper magazines, clients can choose from thousands of titles courtesy of the Readily app on a recycled Kindle. Charly’s computer is also second hand, as are the salon’s white goods. And then there’s the Davines and epiic hair products themselves. “Rather than rely on toxic hairdressing products and wasteful techniques, we use high-quality, ethically harvested, organic and vegan hair products,” Charly explains. Both brands also donate a percentage of profits to charities committed to the betterment of the planet.

BUSINESS

“I say because Davines gives to earth-focused charities and epiic to ocean ones I am covered on both the land and sea!” Denton’s Art of Hair leaflets are printed on seeded mulch paper and if one goes into landfill by mistake it will grow wild flowers. Yet everything is as you would expect it to be in an upmarket salon. From the comfortable massage chairs and quality products to the tasteful décor and inviting relaxation area, every minor detail has been thoroughly thought through by Charly. “By reducing our carbon footprint on the salon floor, we’re proud to offer our clients something different. Just because we are eco-focused doesn’t mean we compromise on anything. In fact because most of our suppliers give a portion of their profits to various charities your money actually goes further when you are here.” At the moment it is just Charly working at the salon but her hope is that her business will grow – sustainably of course – and she will be able to employ like-minded hair stylists. “I’m so proud of this venture. Wouldn’t it be great to inspire other stylists and salons? It’s not easy and it’s certainly costly but socially it is the right thing to do.” Another USP is that there is no set price list. Charly charges by a client’s time spent at the salon and will

“Everything at Denton’s Art of Hair is as you would expect it to be in an upmarket salon. From the comfortable massage chairs and quality hair products to the tasteful décor and inviting relaxation area, every minor detail has been thoroughly thought through by Charly”

explain what they are paying for and why. “Your luxury doesn’t have to be at the detriment of the environment,” smiles Charly. She then adds that she is very keen to bring the traditional community spirit back to the salon. “It’s somewhere you feel comfortable, you can meet friends and chat. Salons have always been a great focal point. That’s why I have local artists’ work hanging on the walls. I want people to see them and have the opportunity to support our painters and illustrators.” And her clients’ well-being and experience have also been meticulously considered too: “A lot of my clients say they hate having to sit in front of the mirror for hours on end so my solution was to put pretty things on the wall to look at! And instead of being the usual trademark black, our gowns are purple because it’s a more flattering colour on most people’s skin tone. The tops of our chairs come off so if you have very long hair you don’t need to stand up to have it cut. It’s those little details that make something more valuable in my opinion.” Downstairs are some beauty treatment rooms which Charly hopes to rent out soon to therapists who have a similar eco ethos to hers. Having gone freelance in a pandemic and opened a salon in these turbulent economic times, the odds have been most definitely stacked against Charly but her genuine passion and commitment to sustainability – as well as to her loyal clients – should ensure her every success. “I don’t want to be the only eco hairdresser out there. If anything, I want to inspire others and show people that you can provide a luxury service with great products but still be respectful to the environment. I want to give the absolute best to whoever walks through the door, as without them I don’t have a business. It’s about wanting to give 100% to everyone.”

A CUT ABOVE Spotlight on the two ecofriendly products used at Denton’s Art of Hair:

DAVINES: Premium Italian haircare brand, Davines, boasts a range of gorgeous, 100% vegan products from everyday care to colour, styling and treatments that promise to be ‘good for your hair and the planet’. Designed, formulated and produced in-house at the carbon-neutral Davines Village in Parma, the company uses 100% sustainable energy from renewable sources including sun, wind and water. The company is both a certified B Corp and certified Plastic Neutral; for every product sold, an equal amount of ocean-bound plastic is collected and removed from the environment through its collaboration with Plastic Bank. epiic: Designed in Denmark, epiic’s professional, sustainable hair care products are organic, 100% vegan and cruelty free.Taking inspiration from its Nordic roots, epiic’s products use clean, simple, gentle ingredients, while offering a uniquely luxurious spa experience. As part of its commitment to the planet, epiic has collaborated with Ocean Plastic Waste (OWP™) which pledges to remove the same amount of plastic from the world’s oceans and rivers that are used in its packaging. Several epiic hair care products are also certified according to the strict, European standard in natural and organic cosmetic products – COSMOS Organic.

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 45

FASHION

Style

Queen This month SO magazine welcomes Charlotte Newman, owner of Kitch in Tunbridge Wells as its new resident fashion columnist. Here she tells us about her beautiful High Street boutique and reveals what’s so special about Me369 - one of the uber cool fashion labels she stocks

and about being able to overcome f you love fashion then obstacles in a vivacious and you’re bound to know audacious kind of way. Renowned Kitch, a treasure trove for their elevated takes on everyday of stylish sartorial finds essentials, Me369 offers luxurious located on the upper end garments, premium basics and of the High Street in statement pieces that are current Tunbridge Wells. yet timeless. From wonderfully You may think the independent printed dresses and skirts, to their boutique’s name is a spelling cult-favourite wool blazers, here are mistake – i.e that it should be a selection of key pieces for your ‘Kitsch’ - but actually it’s a blend of the owner’s name Charlotte and capsule closet that will transcend the latest fashion and style trends: that of her husband’s: Kit. The shop opened its doors in 2003 and is one of the town’s JACKET REQUIRED: biggest independent retail success stories. During Covid it No closet is complete without commissioned local fashion stylist a signature blazer. The Monica Victoria Genevieve to carry out blazer is a timeless staple you will weekly instore lives on Instagram. reach for time and time again. They proved to be so Tailored from a popular they are now wool-blend in a a permanent fixture classic checkered and something pattern, it has a Kitch’s loyal clients relaxed fit and Me369 offers love. structured shoulders luxurious “I’ve always tried making it ideal for to offer something layering over knits. garments, different,” comments When it comes to premium basics Charlotte on the outerwear, a blazer and statement ethos behind her can add businessshop and website. ready polish to pieces that are “Kitch is a one-stop everything, which current yet shopping destination. makes it a staple timeless We try to source piece to wear for new, upcoming both work and brands you won’t the weekend. The see everywhere Monica blazer will else so we can offer instantly become the customer a unique shopping one of the hardest-working experience. Kitch is all about versatile pieces on rotation in your colour and print.” wardrobe. Eye-catching patterns and highoctane hues are clearly key sartorial DRESS TO IMPRESS: staples for the store’s rails so it’s no surprise that Charlotte loves the Crafted from Me369’s signature Me369 label which offers statement soft and silky fabrics, the Mavis pieces, with a focus on exquisite Tattoo dress is the epitome of prints, colours and silhouettes that elegance and laid-back luxury. are perfect for women of all ages. With a notch neck and tie detail, It also sells a variety of wardrobe the dress features long balloon basics. Here she tells us more about sleeves that are secured with the international brand… buttons and functional tie. The The Me369 collections are palette of warm neutral shades inspired by the fast pace of life is a great choice for the new

46 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

FASHION

season and makes a sophisticated alternative to the classic wintery neutrals. The soft oyster, black and caramel tones will compliment any skin tone and make every day dressing a joy.

SEASONAL CHANGE: A standout piece in the new collection, the Amelie Urban dress is a stunning choice for Autumn with its contrasting animal and geometric print. Featuring a deep V-neck with button fastening and small slits at each side, it can be styled up or down to suit a myriad of looks. A great option for any occasion, wear it with a pair of sneakers for an effortless daytime look or style with heels for elevated evening attire.

CONTEMPORY CHIC: For day-to-evening dressing, a silky midi skirt is an easy-to-wear wardrobe staple that combines classic and contemporary styles. The Rosalie skirt is a cultfavourite, with its vibrant and unique print. The midi skirt is elasticated at the waist and has a straight, relaxed fit. Team it with a sweater and chunky boots for a casual daytime look, then switch it up in the evening with a silk camisole and a pair of heels. Complete your look with minimal Anna Beck gold jewellery that will complement and enhance the warm tones of the skirt. The latest Me369 collection presents seasonless luxury essentials, through high quality pieces in a refined palette that can be mixed and matched with total ease, season after season. Me369 expertly combines decades of creativity, talent and stunning design to create high end styles, with minimum effort. SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 47

PLOT PLOT PLOT OR NOT ? OR NOT ? OR NOT ? OR NOT?

IF YOU THINK YOUR LAND OR PROPERTY HAS IF YOU THINKPOTENTIAL, YOUR LANDTHEN OR PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT GIVE US AHAS CALL IF YOU THINKPOTENTIAL, YOUR LANDTHEN OR PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT GIVE US AHAS CALL WITHOUT OBLIGATION AND IN CONFIDENCE. IF YOU THINKPOTENTIAL, YOUR LANDTHEN OR PROPERTY HAS DEVELOPMENT GIVE US A CALL WITHOUT OBLIGATION AND CONFIDENCE. IF YOU YOUR OR PROPERTY IF YOU THINK THINK YOUR LAND LAND ORIN PROPERTY HAS DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL, THEN GIVE US AHAS CALL WITHOUT OBLIGATION AND IN CONFIDENCE. DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL, THEN GIVE US A CALL DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL, THEN GIVE US A CALL IF YOU THINK YOUR LAND ORINPROPERTY HAS WITHOUT OBLIGATION AND CONFIDENCE. WITHOUT OBLIGATION AND IN CONFIDENCE. WITHOUT OBLIGATION AND IN CONFIDENCE. DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL, THEN GIVE US A CALL WITHOUT OBLIGATION AND IN CONFIDENCE. We are always on We are always on the lookout for land We are always on the lookout forwith land and property Welookout are always on the for land and property with We are always on We are always on development the lookout forwith land and property development the lookout for land the lookout for land potential. We are always on and property with development potential. and property with and property the lookout forwith land development potential. development development and property with potential. potential. potential. development potential. Commercial buildings for residential Commercial for residential conversion,buildings former public houses, Commercial buildings for residential conversion, former public houses, redundant buildings forpublic redevelopment, Commercial buildings for residential conversion, former houses, redundant buildings for for redevelopment, Commercial buildings for residential Commercial buildings residential buildings for conversion or replacement, conversion, former public houses, redundant buildings forpublic redevelopment, buildings for conversion orlarge replacement, conversion, former houses, conversion, former public houses, houses for improvement, sites on Commercial buildings for residential redundant buildings for redevelopment, buildings for conversion or replacement, houses for improvement, large siteslarge on redundant buildings for redevelopment, redundant buildings for redevelopment, the edge of town, barn conversions, conversion, former public houses, buildings forimprovement, conversion orlarge replacement, houses for sites on the edge of town, barn large buildings for conversion or replacement, buildings for conversion orlarge replacement, gardens inbuildings residential areas andsites major redundant forconversions, redevelopment, houses for improvement, on the edge of town, barn conversions, large gardens in residential areas and major houses for improvement, large sites on houses for improvement, large sites on regeneration projects. buildings for conversion or replacement, the edge of barn conversions, large gardens intown, residential areas and major regeneration projects. the edge of town, barn conversions, large the edgefor of barn projects. conversions, large houses improvement, large on gardens intown, residential areas andsites major regeneration gardens in residential areas and major gardens in residential areas and major the edge of town, barn projects. conversions, large regeneration regeneration projects. gardensregeneration in residential projects. areas and major regeneration projects. Many of our clients retain our services Many of our clientsofretain and, in the majority cases,our payservices our fees Many of our clients retain our and, inproperty the majority of cases, payservices ourcosts. fees saving owners significant Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs. Many of our our clientsofretain retain our services Many of clients our services and, in the majority cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs. and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees and, inproperty the majority ofretain cases, payservices ourcosts. fees Many of our clients our saving owners significant saving property owners significant costs. saving owners significant and, inproperty the majority of cases, pay ourcosts. fees saving property owners significant costs.

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the corner! Vitamin C can also help accelerate the healing of acne wounds with its anti-inflammatory properties which help to reduce redness and swelling.

Why looking and feeling good is

more than skin deep… This month Natalie Piacun, professional make-up artist at TAW salon on The Pantiles, looks at how we can improve our skin, hair, nails and general well-being with some simple hit-reset steps…

his month we are delving into what I call ‘lifestyle medicine’ with benefits to skin, hair, nails, our immune systems and of course our all-important mental health. I begin by highlighting the wellknown topic of achieving the perfect work-life balance. This is an equilibrium that has become even more scrutinised post-pandemic as we revert back to our busy lives. I for one am a repeat offender here. Throw into the mix a busy salon, photoshoots, travel and looking after our gorgeous little girl – there is my recipe for a fast-paced, yet wonderful life sprinkled with anxiety and a little self-neglect. Something that many of us can associate with I’m sure… Couple this with environmental and seasonal factors to navigate, it is more important now than ever to evaluate one’s health and well-being. With the onset of what’s looking like a challenging flu season and a lack of exposure to ‘good germs’ due to two years of lockdowns means our immune systems have taken the hit. It’s therefore time to take more responsibility and make a conscious effort to look after ourselves as best we can this coming winter. From building our immunity and fortifying our internal bacteria – which is so important to gut health – to putting that all-important essential emphasis on fresh food, diet, mindfulness,

exercise, hydration, and sleep, there’s lots we can do. This month we are highlighting natural products, self-care and a whole lot of self-love. Hopefully these will do a good job of helping you achieve more radiant skin, glossier hair, stronger nails, and an all-round happier, healthier way of approaching life. Who doesn’t want that?

MY WELLNESS OVERHAUL: Protect with the power of Altrient Liposomal Vitamin C £44.50 x 30 pouches of 1000mg BENEFITS: Immunity boosting: Your immune system is vital in keeping you healthy as your body’s own built-in defence mechanism. This powerful defence vitamin is essential for the growth and repair of tissue all over the body. Brightens & hydrates skin: Vitamin C supports key cellular processes such as collagen synthesis, helping to increase elasticity and plump up the skin. This also reverses signs of premature ageing, helping the skin to remain bright and youthful. Improves skin health: It’s important to look after our skin health all year round, but especially for a season refresh and even more so when party season is just around

Time to give yourself some face value: This recipe for a DIY face mask passed down from an old family friend has been used for years with fantastic results. Leaving the skin feeling soft, smoother and replenished. • 1 avocado • 1 tsp of olive oil • 1 tsp of aloe vera • 2 tsp of lemon juice • 1 vitamin E capsule • 1 egg white • 2 tsp pf white flour • Ice cube Mix or blend into a smooth paste, apply a thin layer over your face. Leave to dry, before gently removing with warm water and flannel or muslin. This will make enough formulation for multiple applications. It can be stored in the freezer in an ice cube tray – pop one out when you need it and remember to defrost before use!

“It’s time to take more responsibility and make a conscious effort to look after ourselves as best we can this winter”

Natalie Piacun TAW salon @nataliemakeup_ @68thepantiles

Get your glow on the go with Zooki Collagen: Boasting a blend of marine collagen and real fruit extracts, these lipidbased supplements are the perfect way to get high-strength marine collagen into your diet. Collagen is best known for its role in promoting healthy, young-looking skin, but its benefits don’t stop there. Collagen Zooki also supports strong and healthy bones, joints, cartilage, tendons, teeth, gums, muscles, as well as your overall health and wellbeing. Collagen is a structural protein that occurs naturally in the body, but we all start to lose it from the age of 25. Collagen Zooki is free from: dairy, sugar, gluten, soy and is made from natural ingredients. With a wide range on offer from performance, beauty, immunity, and health it’s definitely worth a look. SO readers are entitled to 20% discount on any Zooki purchases during the month of November 2022. Please visit www.zooki.com and quote NATALIE20 at check out. Music Medicine courtesy of Sound and Spirit Music has the power to affect our health and wellbeing. In a bid to introduce an element of calm to my life and some well overdue ‘me time’, I have embarked on sound healing with the delightful Michelle of Sound and Spirit. Did you know that simply listening to a single musical note that vibrates at 528 Hz has been shown to repair your DNA? Neither did I! It’s called attuned vibrations. The miracle frequency is an ancient healing frequency with a unique physical and biological importance. Michelle’s sessions use crystal quartz singing bowls, pyramids and weighted tuning forks that create different frequencies that pass through the body. Sound passes through the body, clearing blockages of energy, releasing tension, stress, anxiety and balances your mind and body. Sound healing can place you into a higher state of relaxation and meditation, while the sound waves penetrate at a cellular level. Declutter the mind, relax and unwind on a matt with a pillow and cosy blanket, soft lighting, candles, beautiful scents, and an uninterrupted hour of pure bliss. What’s not to love? We are hosting a sound bath session on Friday November 25 at 7pm at TAW Salon, 68 The Pantiles, TN2 5TN. Tickets should be purchased in advance. Sessions are £25 but SO readers receive an early bird discount of £20 using code SOUND25. Please email hello@ thomastaw.com to reserve your space. SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 49

Christmas at Salomons Estate

FESTIVE GALA NIGHTS ONLY £54pp

We’re rolling out the red carpet this Christmas, step into the glitz of our Hollywood Glamour themed gala nights! Book a table for your work do or a festive night out with friends or family, our Christmas parties boast the best in yuletide spirit… DRESS TO IMPRESS HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR THEME! WELCOME GLASS OF PROSECCO | THREE COURSE FESTIVE MENU CASINO TABLES | PHOTOBOOTH | DJ & DANCING UNTIL 1AM

STARTERS

MAIN COURSE

DESSERT

Leek, potato & chestnut soup with feta cheese & thyme croute (v) (can be made vegan & gf on request)

Roasted free range turkey breast, apricot stuffing, pigs in blanket, roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables & turkey jus (gf, df)

Chocolate tart au citron, white chocolate ice cream & raspberry gel

Duck liver parfait, spiced clementine chutney, toasted spring onion & sesame seed bread Hot smoked halibut, radish, cucumber ribbon, sautéed pearl onions with dill crème fraiche (gf) (can be df on request)

Roasted haddock fillet, cumin roasted new potato cake & braised leeks with a fennel & tomato sauce (gf, df) Butternut squash, leek & spinach gratin, celeriac ribbon, sunflower seed purée with wilted greens & rosemary potato cake (v) (vegan on request)

Locally sourced cheeseboard with farmhouse chutney, celery, grapes and crackers (gf available on request) Ginger & caramel apple pudding, rhubarb compote with cinnamon whipped cream (can be made vegan & gf on request)

ESTABLISHED

TO BOOK Call 01892 515152 or email reception@salomons-estate.com Booking essential for all Christmas events

@salomons_venue @salomons.venue @salomons_estate

SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO & TO BOOK

WELL-BEING

Comfort Cold Zone As the colder weather descends our immune systems need a boost. Happily our natural health and well-being columnist Naomi Murray from Botanica Health in Rusthall is on hand to provide some effective remedies which will help you de-stress and sleep better

STRESS LESS AND SLEEP WELL

e are in the throes of beautiful autumn. A period of hunkering down and preparing for the winter ahead. For those of you who enjoy the slower pace of life this is your season; beautiful walks, glowing fires, doing less and staying in. Low stress, quality sleep and a relaxed body and mind are the perfect foundation for a more resilient immune system. So let’s start here… I hope the following recipes are therapeutic in the making and in their restorative actions. All ingredients available to buy from Botanica on Rusthall High Street.

Naomi Murray Co-founder of Botanica Health

botanicahealth.co.uk

Moon milk is an Ayurvedic tradition where milk and honey has the addition of adaptogens – in particular ashwagandha. An adaptogen is known as a substance which helps the body adapt, adjust and reset which is just what we need at this time of year. Adaptogens are the most amazing tonics and there are countless studies proving their efficacy for stress, depression, stamina and immunity. Sleep is so important for a strong immune system; for repair, rejuvenation, energy and mental health.

“In November, the trees are standing all sticks and bones. Without their leaves, how lovely they are, spreading their arms like dancers. They know it is time to be still.” — Cynthia Rylant, In November

The recipe:

1 cup of cow’s milk or a plantbased milk 1 teaspoon of coconut oil 1 teaspoon of ashwagandha powder 1 teaspoon of freeze-dried blueberry powder 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder 1 heaped teaspoon of raw honey Optional alternative: you can add 2 teaspoons of collagen powder

Method

Add 1 cup of milk to a saucepan and warm gently. Then add the coconut oil stirring until dissolved. Whisk in all the other ingredients apart from the honey. Pour into a cup and stir in the honey. Take to bed and enjoy with a relaxing book.

RELAXING LAVENDER BATH SALTS RECIPE

There is nothing lovelier than a warm, fragrant bath in a dimly-lit room. As a child I remember feeling soothed by the fragrance of lavender bags as I opened my grandmother’s chest of drawers. It was a comfort somehow, and I would pick them up, inhaling deeply. There is growing evidence that the aroma of lavender can relieve anxiety, stabilise the mood and act as a natural sedative. And if you combine it with Epsom (magnesium sulfate) or magnesium bath salts you have the perfect marriage to support relaxation. This is a simple recipe to make. The perfume is divine as you put this bath soak together and may induce sleepiness. Do not operate machinery whilst you make your lavender bath salts.

The recipe:

In a bowl combine the following: 500g of Epsom salts or magnesium salts 100g course or fine Himalayan salt (not necessary if you don’t have them) 2 tablespoons of dried lavender flowers 3 tablespoons of dried rose petals or cornflower or other pretty flower 40 drops of essential oil of lavender Dispense into a glass pot with a lid. Leave by the bath and add about four generous tablespoons under hot running water. And now, most importantly…relax. SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 51

WE ARE TAKING GROUP BOOKINGS FOR CHRISTMAS NOW CELEBRATE THE FESTIVE SEASON WITH A FUSION TWIST!

Christmas Menu £37.50 for 3 Courses

Starters

Lime cured sea trout, sweet onion puree, burnt onion, puffed rice and a smoked trout, coconut and kaffir lime mousse Or Poached chicken, lemongrass, mushroom and Thai basil terrine, toasted brioche and Thai style mayonnaise Or Carrot and coriander loaf, goats cured set mousse, curried cashew nuts and spicy carrot salad

Mains

Roast turkey tournedos with a cranberry, galangal and lemongrass stuffing. Served with roast potatoes, pigs in blankets, cranberry and bread sauces. Or Liquorice and sweet soy glazed salmon with garlic sauteed bok choi, pomelo gel. Served with steamed jasmine rice Or Buckwheat & coconut milk pancakes, roasted onion squash, Korean style cooked black beans and choi sum.

These vegetables will be served family style for the table to share. Star anise glazed carrots; sprouts cooked with red curry butter; cauliflower chilli cheese

Desserts

Duck egg and vanilla custard tart, kumquat marmalade, cinnamon anglaise sauce, orange crisp and clotted cream ice cream Or Chocolate cremeux, banana mousse, peanut nougatine, ´ popcorn, chocolate and lime soil Or Poached pear, coconut panna cotta, crispy Vietnamese cookies, pear gel, lemon verbena mousse and pear granita Coffee or Tea & Mince Pies

No.30 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5TN Annette’s garden is awash Phone 01892 487 Client 556 with colourful plants and shrubs www.kumquat.restaurant

Hypnotherapy

The manipulation of time extends wakefulness and disrupts sleep to a degree that can lead to all kinds of health issues like: Hypertension Diabetes or insulin resistance Sleep apnea Obesity Heart attack Stroke Depression and anxiety Psychosis

Timeis of the essence This month, hypnotherapist Karen Martin, who is based at Salomons Estate, looks at the issue of maintaining a healthy body clock with the changing of the seasons…

Are you an owl or a lark? Either way, your feathers were likely to be a little ruffled when the clocks changed at the end of October. The autumn ‘fall back’ from British Standard Time (BST) to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) treats us to an extra hour of sleep. But if you’re an owl like me, you may feel robbed of an hour of daylight at the end of a gloomy winter’s day. And when the clocks ‘spring forward’ next March giving us an hour less snooze time, we’re all destined to be a bit crabbier and more tired for a day or two. Whether this matters or not is a cause for debate. Changing the clocks does not create extra daylight but instead shifts the time of sunrise and sunsets. This time

change can cause disruptions to our body clock, otherwise known as the circadian rhythm. The body goes through natural cycles each day. The circadian rhythm regulates sleep and wakefulness, as well as affecting appetite, body temperature, hormones, the immune system and mood. Maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm is difficult with our brightly lit, 24/7 lifestyle which defies the ebb and flow and rise and fall of the natural world. Technology and time are man-made ways of defying nature, enabling us to work, rest and play regardless of changing seasons or when the sun rises and sets. In pre-industrial times, it was

Karen Martin Hypnotherapist

hypnotherapykent.co.uk

known to disturb the circadian rhythm. In addition, many of us have unhealthy habits or other factors which mess up our body clocks to a harmful degree like: going out late and waking up early having no set sleep time eating and drinking late at night consuming caffeine late at night using electronic devices late at night performing mentally stimulating activities late in the day living with pain or discomfort

normal to sleep when it got dark and wake at dawn. As darkness sets in, the body’s biological clock instructs the cells to slow down. The hormone melatonin The conscious mind has no starts to rise and sends us to sleep. control of the biochemical Production peaks around 2.00am fluctuations of the circadian to 4.00am and then reduces by morning when other chemicals like rhythm. Lifestyle changes can cortisol activate wakefulness. make a difference. In our fastNearly every tissue paced world, the and organ contains natural rhythm of its own biological our bodies and brain clock. These are are often overruled the result of certain or disregarded out The circadian proteins interacting of necessity and rhythm with cells in the body, expectation. It’s instructing them to hard to imagine regulates be more active or to a life without that sleep and slow down. imbalance. For wakefulness Regardless of some, the pandemic GMT or time zones, lockdowns may have and affects one master clock in been an opportunity appetite, body the body controls to slow down and temperature, all these individual reset. However, most clocks. In humans, of us have returned hormones and the master clock is to our normal mood a structure called routine of burning the suprachiasmatic the candle at both nucleus (SCN), ends. which contains about My favourite times 20,000 nerve cells of year are spring and receives direct input from the and autumn, when the seasons eyes. shift, the weather is mellow and As the eyes perceive the bright the clocks change. These are light of day or the darkness of the times when the natural cycle night, the SCN picks up on this of growth and decay are most information, telling cells to act evident. If you want to get away accordingly. Light keeps the from the relentless ticking of mancircadian rhythm in sync with a made clocks, the countryside and 24-hour day. seashore are where you’ll find Night shifts and jet lag are respite from the tyranny of time… SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 53

ADVERTISING

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Business

Putting

things in

perspective This month optician Jame Edney – who runs designer eyewear boutique Edney & Edney with his optometrist wife Ayshah on Monson Road – looks at the variety of varifocals now available…

ince the launch of the ahead in quick succession - changing very first varifocal, the spectacles would be impractical and unsafe. Varilux in the late 1950s, Varifocals rely on the principle varifocal lenses have been a that generally when we are looking at hugely popular yet divisive things in the distance, we are looking technology. straight ahead. When we need to look In this month’s column, I want to at something closer, we usually look discuss how they work, why they’re necessary and the different types down onto it, such as a wristwatch, a available. Whether you’re an existing book, a phone, or a task like cooking. wearer, you’re considering trying Varifocals exploit this principle by them, or you’ve been recommended having a progression of power across them for the first time, by having a the lens, meaning that the top part of better knowledge of the the lens has the distance product, you can make prescription and the a more informed choice lower part has a gradual at your next visit to the increase in prescription opticians. for closer tasks. We use Nikon Varifocals are This idea is not a new but as an designed for people one, in fact, varifocals who require different work on the same independent prescriptions for principle on which optical practice different tasks, most Benjamin Franklin’s we can also commonly for distance very first ‘Franklin and near vision. Most Split Bifocal’ was provide lenses of us will require based on in 1779, except from all major different prescriptions there is no line across lens suppliers for distance and near the lens and they weigh due to a phenomenon considerably less! Older and called presbyopia (Greek simpler progressive for old eyes!) Our eyes become presbyopic designs admittedly have when our eyes’ built-in autofocus one drawback, which is still a mechanism becomes less effective reason why many are hesitant to try due to reduced flexibility of the varifocals. These now superseded lens behind the pupil. This typically designs achieve a progression of starts in the mid to late 40s, and gets power across the lens at a cost – the progressively more pronounced over lower peripheral vision through the the following decades. lens is distorted and blurry, giving Historically, the most popular the wearer the infamous ‘swimmy’ solution to this problem was to sensation. This shortcoming was seen have separate pairs of spectacles for as a reluctant compromise for the specific tasks – for example driving sake of convenience. However, since spectacles, reading spectacles, the early generation lenses, modern computer spectacles and so on. lens suppliers including Nikon have developed lenses which all but This remedy is very effective for eliminate the design flaws by tailoring giving clear vision, but quickly the optical power at every point based becomes tedious when needing to on the wearing position of the frame quickly change what you are looking to minimise peripheral so-called offat. For example, when driving a car, axis oblique astigmatism. you may need to look at your Sat The newer, more researched lenses Nav, your dash board and the road

“The top part of a varifocal lens has the distance prescription and the lower part has a gradual increase in prescription for closer tasks”

GET IN CONTACT: are usually the best www.edneyandedney.com designs, but the @edneyandedney older design will @edneyandedney still be available at a @edneyandedney cheaper price, hence the catalogue of lenses which may be discussed during a spectacle dispense. The statement ‘you get what you the risk of being stuck with a pair of pay for’ has never been truer than in spectacles you do not get on with – so the case of varifocals. there really is nothing to be lost from The collective term ‘progressive trying varifocals! lens’ does not just describe It is very easy to get distracted by varifocals. Similar lens designs our phenomenal collections of artisan called occupational progressives spectacle frames, but an incredible and enhanced readers make use frame should house an equally high of progressive surfaces by having the performing lens, which is why we use full reading prescription in the lower part of the lens, and a reduced near Nikon. We are Nikon lens specialists prescription at the top. for good reason, their superior optical This results in a lens which quality has put Nikon at the forefront performs fantastically in a close of lens design for decades. However, work environment due to its superior as an independent optical practice field of view over a varifocal, and we can also provide lenses from all flexibility in working distance over major lens suppliers, so if you have a a pair of simple reading glasses. An preferred lens design, we can supply it! occupational progressive lens coupled I hope that you now feel more confident with discussing varifocals with a good varifocal will provides with your optician, and if you are one the wearer the convenient, of many who have been reluctant uncompromising vision required for to try them, I urge you to step into day to day life. Very rarely, wearers who try the brave new world of progressive varifocals for the first time may simply lenses. If you are already wearing prefer separate pairs. If this is the varifocals, your optician should be case, most reputable lens companies discussing the latest developments offer a non-tolerance policy. This in lens technology with you to make means, if you try varifocals but sure your vision is the best it can be. don’t get on with them, within a few As usual, if you would like to know months (the exact time varies between more please pay Edney & Edney a suppliers) you can return them for visit in Monson Road, Tunbridge exchange or refund. This eliminates Wells. SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 55

Visit Culverwells for all of your Autumn Garden Tool needs. Stihl, Husqvarna and Mountfield essentials in stock to help you with your seasonal garden chores! Don’t forget to ask us about servicing your lawn mowers and tools ready for next spring!

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Food & Drink

Relax in style

Molly Miller pays a visit to the stunning and newly opened Garden Cottages at Salomons Estate

wing right en route to the main house of Salomons Estate in Royal Tunbridge Wells and you’ll stumble upon one of the last remaining remnants of a grand Victorian glass house that once occupied the site when scientific author, barrister, and pioneer of road transport, David Salomons lived on the grounds 190 years ago. What once served as the gardeners’ retreat, boasting extensive flower beds and an abundance of exotic fruits, now provides the location for the venue’s latest development that brings four sympatheticallyrestored cottages to anyone seeking a break that oozes peace, quiet and historical charm. Open to guests for short or long-term stays from Saturday November 1, ‘The Garden Cottages’ have had architect Gaby Higgs at the helm and form part of the estate’s wider development

“Each cottage sympathetically honours the design and layout of the original Victorian buildings”

Each cottage pays tribute to the magnificent surrounding landscaping and sympathetically honours the design and layout of the original Victorian buildings. Guests can expect shaker-style kitchens, beautifully rustic interiors and earthy décor reflecting the building’s past. Think botanical wallpapers, deep hues of green and industrial furnishings. Sleeping up to four people, with one larger cottage sleeping six, guests can treat themselves, their loved ones, and their four-legged friends to a relaxing self-catered stay with their own fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, and lounge area with TV. There’s also a charming outside area to enjoy. Reader offer: Book one night (from £219) during November 2022 and get the second night half price. Bookings made by emailing reception@salomons-estate. com

plans that will conserve and thus secure the future heritage of the estate’s listed assets. Gaby specialises in the restoration and conversion of Georgian houses, including sensitive retrofitting for environmental performance and long-term sustainability, making her experience pivotal to the conservation of Salomons Estate and after months of considered planning and refurbishment, The Garden Cottages are nearing the end of their small-scale restorations. Set among 36 acres of beautiful grounds, the brick-built potting sheds were part of a large glasshouse built in 1888-90 and were originally a place for David Salomons’ gardening staff to nurture seedlings and re-pot plants for the estate’s extensive gardens, which at their height saw 60 varieties of apples, 45 pears, and around 600 gold and tri-colour Lady Cullum and Mrs Pollock geraniums.

One Warwick Park Hotel is owned by the Elite Leisure Collection who also own SO Magazine SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 57

Interiors

“Interior design is all about personality for me”

Justine Hodgson-Barker of Barkerdesign tells Eileen Leahy what inspires her eclectic work, why she believes interior design should be accessible to everyone and the reason she has launched an exciting new styling service…

hen it comes to practising what you preach, interior designer Justine Hodgson-Barker certainly adheres steadfastly to this. Stepping into her stunning home, which is located along a country lane just outside Tunbridge Wells, I’m immediately struck by the house’s effortless style and unique character. Drifting from the stylish openplan modern kitchen into the gorgeous snug area which boasts some über cool mid-century furniture, an oversized mirror, a giant potted olive tree and statement retro lighting, I can instantly see why Justine’s business Barkerdesign is so successful. “It’s all about personality for me,” she says as we head into another living area which is cleverly divided into different ‘zones’. These include a cosy chill-out spot, complete with sheepskin rugs draped over sofas and an open fire with logs stacked

up around it. Adjacent is a funky bar style designer Vanessa Peters-Ennis who is waiting for us with cups of area; its focal point being a curved freshly brewed coffee and delicious bamboo counter, which contrasts perfectly with the exposed brick wall chocolate and coconut energy balls, which Justine made earlier that behind it on which hangs a quirky morning. neon sign which reads ‘For you a Her impressive thousand times over.’ studio is in some ways And despite there a direct contrast to being a variety of Justine’s home, given different design “There are so that it is all-white, but periods worked into there’s still plenty of Justine’s overall look, many blue print character here, too, somehow they all designs out there thanks to the multiple perfectly complement but I didn’t want fabric swatches, one another – as do colourful tile samples, the numerous eyeto be known trailing house plants catching artworks and for a particular and moodboards accessories on display.. style” which adorn the walls “What I like and additional desk creating is humanareas. centred design, So how did Justine, which is timeless and who has overseen the surpasses trends,” says redesign in many people’s homes, Justine as we walk outside to her and also at Leigh Roberts salon purpose-built garden design studio and the Black Dog café in town, get which is located at the bottom of into the wonderful world of interior her garden. design? Here I meet her newly appointed

“I bought my first property in London when I was 27. It went up in value and I got equity in it then I bought the flat downstairs. I did them up, sold them and bought a house,” she reveals. But this wasn’t just a case of painting walls and picking out cushions. “During that time I also got experience of the hard end of the job: writing schedules, dealing with contractors and being savvy with sourcing so I could make a return on investments. I thought ‘Oh God I love this’. I really enjoyed creating great schemes on small budgets.” After marrying and having two children Justine decided to give up her day job which involved globetrotting on a weekly basis in order to retrain as an interior designer. “I enrolled at Chelsea College of Art & Design for a year’s course in interior design. I’d had the experience in investing in properties so thought I’d give it a go. After

Interiors

graduating I did lots of work experience and worked on a number of projects in order to build up my portfolio. On the first day of starting at Chelsea I met Natalie Bourne who went on to become my business partner. We set up Barkerbourne Design on graduating and built it up to be quite successful. Our jobs were mainly in London where we did some amazing work. But back then I hadn’t realised how elitist the interior design industry was. “Natalie and I had to really graft to get our clients and do a hell of a lot of networking. Thankfully things have changed a lot with the evolution of Instagram which has made interior design more accessible. But I think going in at ground roots level really helped us formulate something different at the time.” After a few years Natalie, who

“Your home is where you spend most of your time so you want it to work as best as it can for you”

STYLE FILE Justine Hodgson-Barker (L) with her new interior designer Vanessa Peters-Ennis

is based in London, and Justine amicably parted ways. “I wanted to do more work locally to be around for my children and so it made sense to set up on my own. There are so many blueprint designs out there but I didn’t want to be known for a particular ‘style’. “It just didn’t make sense to me that you would want something someone else has got. So from the very start I wanted my work to be accessible and personality driven. That’s why I am so keen on the whole process of getting to know my clients: what they like, what makes them tick – even their health concerns. “Your home is where you spend most of your time and it’s so connected to your well-being so you want it to work as best as it can for you. That’s essentially why people come to us as we focus on this element as much as structural details and colour schemes. Designing in this way has made me the eclectic, personality-led, uncontrived and lived-in designer I am.” Justine, who is currently overseeing the revamp of an old

manor house in Lewes, adds that she doesn’t just create wonderful interior schemes, she gets involved in all elements of a revamp. “We do everything from concept to writing schedules for contractors to quote on. I do joinery drawings, lighting plans, technical drawings so they’re done for contractors to quote to so there’s no wriggle room. Absolutely everything is specified. “I think there’s no point in doing all the pretty stuff until you have all the space planning right. You can’t really do one without the other. How you move about your space is way more important than the sofa you are sitting on!” But whether she’s doing a cosmetic revamp, a complicated restructure or working on a big extension project, Justine says the client’s needs are always key. “Of course we look at the fabric of the building and the necessary creative prescriptive ingredients but the person definitely comes first. We have an initial 90-minute consultation to discuss projects – whether that’s a big renovation or for one of our new styling services

scheme. I would much prefer for people to say ‘Wow that is so YOU’ when seeing a “What I like friend or family member’s creating is humannew interior instead of centred design, which asking ‘did you use a designer?’” is timeless and Another big USP of surpasses trends” Justine’s work is her ‘splurge and save’ approach. In short this means that she will always which Vanessa has encourage clients to source items come on board to do. from all corners of the market. Once people start chatting and “If they’ve fallen in love with a letting go it’s like a therapy session!” great piece of lighting online then Interior Designer Vanessa also has I’ll always try to source it for a better a wealth of experience. The new price. After 14 years of working in service she will be overseeing will be the interiors industry I have a great mainly cosmetic room makeovers little black book of contacts and helping people decide on schemes, secret suppliers. I like to think we colours and accessories. “The new are bringing clients a service that is pretty exclusive but not necessarily service we are offering will enable expensive. you to create rooms in your home “I always say you can dial up here that are an echo of our brand. but you can save money there. I “If your home or business refurb don’t think every interior designer is already completed but it’s lacking does that but that’s how I like to a sense of cohesion and character, work. I like to get an idea of budget Barkerdesign can help source all the as it’s a big investment. Most of my finishing touches such as artwork, clients are real grafters and have objects and accessories that have a saved up for this experience.” distinct narrative and will give your Justine says she is also very space a unique identity.” supportive of local designers and Justine describes her own designs tradespeople too. as being ‘timeless’ and ‘surpassing “One of my favourites is artist trends’ which she also believes Beth Fraser, her paintings are makes her business sustainable too incredible. And I will always seek because she’s not asking people out and use the best local builders, to get rid of things or buy into a plumbers etc. particular look. “There’s a lot of time involved in “I believe all that is key to then creating my types of designs. It’s a being able to include pieces of worthy investment.” someone’s personality within the

THE BARKERDESIGN EXPERIENCE: • We always do a style direction Q&A with clients first in order to drill down into what they want. Two totally different people usually sit opposite us but any arguments are usually nailed at the first session. • We actively decide together where clients want to splurge and save. I always say you can dial up or dial down as much as you like. If you’ve had the chandelier then how about a plainer carpet? • Interior design is becoming more accessible but many designers will still say ‘this is your design and that’s what you’re having’. But with me clients will get all the options, so when they walk out they are happy with their spend and what they’ve decided upon. • Our initial consultation costs £350. Design fees are still an ‘investment’ but the savings are in our savvy sourcing, trade suppliers, emerging product designers and local artisans. • Our USP is designing timeless interiors that surpass trends and which adhere to a prescriptive brief of the client’s personality and lifestyle. So you won’t go changing any time soon!

NEW STYLING SERVICE • Vanessa’s clients will usually have their houses already done and just want to add a bit of va va voom to a space or look at switching things up. They might want a completely new look or just need some help with styling a space or adding their personality into their home. • We always work to a prescriptive brief. The initial 90-minute consultation with Vanessa is £350. While in your home she will take a full scope per room so that an estimate can be provided for sourcing. And within the time clients can ask her any initial questions on styling. @barker_design www.barker-design.com

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 59

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60 | NOVEMBER 2022 | SO Magazine

Advertising Feature

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The Green Duck Events Space & Bar

ow did it all come about? The Green Duck event space and bar was born out of the original Green Duck Emporium in the heart of Grosvenor Road. We now host over 150 events a year ranging from singalongs to 40th birthday parties and even christenings, The Green Duck Events Space & Bar, Tunbridge Wells is a unique space available for private for any kind of event you would like to throw. We aim to be as flexible as possible to tailor your quote to match the specific needs of your event. An event could be a special birthday party, christening, bookclub, engagement or even a work event with colleagues. We have indoor and outdoor seating and even our very own cave in our garden, yes you read that right a cave.....a truly unique space. The Evens Space & Bar can be hired with or without catering, with a minimum booking of 4 hours. We have a well stocked bar and a late license and are just a 15 minute walk away from Tunbridge Wells Train Station.

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SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 61

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SCAN HERE TO PLAN YOUR DAY

Outside edge

the right place and burns clean and efficiently to create optimum heat. See more about Feuerhand at www.feuerhand.com. Or buy it locally at Le Petit Jardin in Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells. www.lepetit-jardin.com

SOLUS DECOR

I saw this firepit at Chelsea this year. It’s rather pretty. You can buy it in three different sizes. Solus make a range of concrete firepits in contemporary designs, ideal for a modern garden setting. The finish is superb and comes in various colour schemes. It typically runs on a gas burner principle. Check out their website at www. solusdecor.co.uk. The version I really like is called the Hemi Fire Bowl and this either comes in a 48” diameter, or 36”, or 26”. So make sure you think carefully about the size that might suit your garden before buying.

Our resident gardening expert Tim Sykes of Garden Proud, discusses the appeal of installing an inviting fire feature in your outdoor space which you can use all year round

K so it’s time to get the marshmallows out, tuck yourself under a nice outdoor throw, get the Sonos Music system working and get cosy around a lovely warm firepit. Personally, I can’t think of anything nicer, save for some sausages to toast on the fire! We’ve been enjoying late summer and autumn nights for years around our firepits and chimeneas when we’ve had them. So don’t decamp inside just because it’s dark and chilly outside. As temperatures drop, what could be more fun than huddling around a crackling fire and sharing memories with family and friends as the sun goes down and listening to Adele, Coldplay – or even Fleetwood Mac if you are as old as me? If you don’t have a firepit already then now’s the time to think about it… The good news is there are a huge range of different styles, from wood-burning fire bowls to chimeneas and gas burners. If you are really committed you might even think of investing in an outdoor fireplace, or chimney complete with its own outdoor lounge. Interestingly, we are increasingly being asked to build such features like these into new garden designs. There is a huge amount of information online, so do Google it. But in the meantime here are a few thoughts on the different types of firepits you might consider:

KADAI

They make and sell in the UK the archetypal fire bowl. We are on our second one! Ours is roughly a metre diameter and it’s amazing as you can pile it up with wood

These are just a few of the options readily available on the marketplace. But you can always go bespoke. One of our clients last year asked me to design a square firepit for a special area we were creating in their garden. This we designed using a double skinned ‘sandwich’ fashioned out of Corten Steel to fit the scheme perfectly. To give the firepit an extended life we also created a Corten Steel tabletop. The whole thing was built for us by a very talented blacksmith based in the Peak District who did this all for an incredibly reasonable price. Let me know if you want a bespoke design and I will happily help you.

and get really warm (sit at least 1m away). But Kadai also sell a whole host of accessories and I have to say some of the best barbecues we have ever had have been cooked on a Kadai! Check the fire bowls and cooking accessories out at www. kadai.com, or if you are in Marks Cross pop into the Marks Cross Nursery where they sell the range.

CHESNEYS

You probably know them for their incredibly nice indoor fire surrounds. But Chesneys (www. chesneys.co.uk) have also launched a range of outdoor wood burners. Top of the range is their XL oblong Clean Burn Outdoor Woodburner which retails at about £1900, but also look at their smaller version of the same design at £1600. They are very nice and efficient fireplaces, as you’d expect. Locally, check out Chesneys’ main distributor (www. thekentstovecompany.co.uk) in Paddock Wood.

FEUERHAND

The Feuerhand Byron fire barrel is a new concept in outdoor heating. It’s about efficiency and maximum heat derived from an effective flow of air to the fire source. This is a concept that other manufacturers such as Solo also promote. But the Feuerhand fire barrel is second to none. It’s a fantastic heater for your garden or terrace. A doublewalled fire barrel made of brushed stainless steel. Thanks to the design, the wood fuel sits in just

For further information about creating firepit areas in your garden contact Tim Sykes at Gardenproud on 07725 173820, or visit www. reallygardenproud.com

“What could be more fun than huddling around a crackling fire with friends?”

THINGS TO DO IN THE GARDEN this November: Clear up fallen leaves this month. You may have to have three or so goes at this, but it’s worth it! Alternatively if it’s not too bad mulch it with your mower.

Tim Sykes

Garden Proud

Plant out your winter bedding plants.

Plant your tulip bulbs for your spring display next year. Put out winter bird food to encourage birds in your garden. Clear up any other debris around the garden.

Use a seasonal bonfire, when allowed, to dispose of excess garden debris. Clear out your greenhouse and prepare it for new season.

SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2022 | 63

Travel

a ñ a p s E Viva

Escape the stress of rising fuel bills at the new Club Med Magna Marbella resort, where sunshine provides all the energy you need, says Johnny Green

trolling through the floral-lined streets of Marbella’s Casco Antiguo (the old town), on a sunny September day, life seems very pleasant indeed. Bordering Portugal to the west and stretching all the way to Almeria and beyond, Andalusia is the second largest region in Spain, with a gloriously long Mediterranean coastline to entice and enchant travellers. Protected by the Sierra Blanca mountains to the north and lying in the heart of the Costa del Sol, Marbella enjoys 325 days of sunshine on average each year, while winter days often exceed 20 degrees Celsius. Bougainvillea and jacaranda decorate the pretty streets, while the fragrant orange trees are so abundant they’ve been given their own square in Plaza de los Naranjos. Perched above the city, I’m a guest of Club Med at the recently

64 | November 2022 | SO Magazine

The recently opened Magna Marbella family resort is Club Med’s first foray into Spain for 20 years

opened Magna Marbella family resort, the French company’s first foray into Spain for 20 years, at a location where it was once based. Now operating more than 70 resorts around the world, Club Med’s all-inclusive model of tourism has come a long way since its origins on the Spanish island of Majorca in 1950, when accommodation was a collection of tents. They’ve since upped their game: tents have become suites and never have I seen so much lobster on the dinner table, topped off with a bounty of scallops and oysters. The very finest Spanish cuisine, sourced largely from Andalusia, is spectacularly showcased on platters of meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables, all accompanied by fine wines. Being a Club Med and allinclusive debutant, I’m struck by the focus on wellbeing. Activities available to guests range from archery to tennis, or flying trapeze

Travel

to yoga. I settle with swimming – in both the lagoon and Zen Zone pools – and a massage. The Zen Zone is located at the highest point of the resort’s 12 acres of terraced gardens. From here, on clear days, you can see both Gibraltar and Morocco across the blue, milky ocean that is the Alboran Sea, the westernmost part of the Mediterranean. I could just relax here for the entirety of my stay, but it would be a shame to miss what the region has to offer. The historic centre of Marbella is a 20-minute walk from the resort. Here, I visit the Church Of Our Lady Of The Incarnation, the Cristo Del Amor Bridge, and its surrounding park, containing the modernist architecture of the

The historic centre of Marbella is a 20-minute walk and further afield is Mijas

Fernando Alcala Central Library. Further afield, Mijas is a town worthy of a visit regardless of the season, with her streets of whitewashed houses, so common in southern Spain, glowing against the bright blue sky. The annual Virgin of the Rock festival, known as the Mijas Fair, is in mid-swing when I arrive. It’s a week-long celebration in honour of the patron saint of Mijas, following the discovery of a shrine by a monk here in the 17th century. With the Rock of Gibraltar and North Africa as the backdrop, hundreds of families gather to share food and drink in this charming, mountainside town, with many of the women dazzling in bright flamenco dresses of every colour.

HOW TO PLAN YOUR TRIP Club Med (clubmed. co.uk; 03453 676 767) offers a sevennight all-inclusive stay at Club Med Magna Marbella, Andalusia, Spain from £1,145 (was £1,317) per person, including transfers and return flights from London Gatwick with Vueling. Price based on the week November 5-12, 2022.

Evening entertainment is A famous son of Andalusia is provided by flamenco dancers Pablo Picasso, who was born in Malaga. The Mijas Contemporary and dance troupes, along with live music and discos. Art Museum (cacmijas.info) Club Med has displays many of his certainly travelled works, along with far and wide over its several pieces by 70-year history to date Salvador Dali. and shows no signs of Picasso’s birthplace Evening down. Now is my next stop, where entertainment slowing owned by the Chinese I explore various is provided conglomerate Fosun Phoenician, Roman Group, the company and Moorish sites, by flamenco has managed to retain including the fortress dancers and its French identity, of Alcazaba and dance troupes, while branching out Gibralfaro Castle, into the Chinese as well as Malaga’s along with market with numerous magnificent cathedral. live music and resorts planned or Back at Club Med discos already open inside Magna Marbella, China. I return to the vast A strong message array of culinary remains – perhaps options on offer and best served up through am rewarded by the Club Med’s own philosophy: “The best paella I’ve ever had. The purpose of life is to be happy, the richness of the flavours, combined time to be happy is now and the with the salt of the shellfish, is place to be happy is here.” extraordinary. SO Magazine | November 2022 | 65

Motors

wind noise kept well isolated from interrupting the peace. It’s quick too, but this isn’t a car you try to hustle along. It’s one that you’d rather just settle into a cruise in, which it undertakes with impressive ease. The rear-wheel steering fitted to the EQS is also a real marvel. At slow speeds, the system allows the rear wheels to oppose each other, effectively shortening the car’s wheelbase. In reality, it means you can perform three-point turns in even the narrowest of areas with ease, which is something you wouldn’t expect a car measuring just over five metres long to be capable of.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

FIRST DRIVE:

In truth, we’re not sure about the looks of the EQS. It just feels as though it lacks any real styling touches and has instead been designed solely in the wind tunnel. Of course, aerodynamic efficiency is of great importance in an electric vehicle, but it’d be nice to see some interesting elements added to the EQS to spruce things up a bit.

FACTS AT A GLANCE MODEL: MercedesBenz EQS PRICE AS TESTED: £106,995 ENGINE: Rearmounted electric motor POWER: 325bhp TORQUE: 568Nm 0-60MPH: 6.0 seconds TOP SPEED: 130mph ECONOMY: N/A EMISSIONS: 0 RANGE: 453 miles

That said, you do get a full-width light bar at the front – something we’ve come to expect from nearly all new EVs – which gives the EQS a futuristic look at night. It’s just not the most exciting-looking of cars.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The refined driving character of the EQS is mirrored within the cabin. It’s a wonderfully comfortable place to be, with well-bolstered front seats ensuring long-distance journeys won’t be accompanied by backache. We still have our reservations about the steering wheel controls as, like they do in other current Mercedes models, they can feel a little clumsy to operate and not as tactile as we’d like. Those sitting in the back are going to get one of the best experiences in the business. The flat floor means there’s loads of legroom – even for the person sitting in the middle – while there’s plenty of headroom too. When it comes to boot space, the EQS offers 610 litres with the seats up or 1,770 litres with them folding down. There’s quite a large load lip to contend with, mind you.

Merced des-Benz EQS Can the EQS deliver the high-end experience people expect from a six-figure luxury car? Jack Evans finds out

WHAT IS IT?

Mercedes isn’t wasting any time in expanding its EQ range of electric vehicles – and the EQS sits at the very top as the firm’s batterypowered flagship. Designed to offer the sumptuous quality and peerless refinement you’d get from the regular S-Class, the EQS arrives with an impressive claimed range of up to 453 miles and performance that would give a hot hatch a run for its money. But can all of this combine into a car that would tempt buyers away from petrol and diesel alternatives?

WHAT’S NEW?

Mercedes has started strong from the get-go, creating a bespoke platform for the EQS that will go on to underpin the firm’s future luxury and executive EVs. In doing so, it’s freed up interior space that wouldn’t be available had it adapted the EQS from an existing petrol or diesel chassis. But as befitting a flagship, the EQS is also kitted out with a range of next-generation systems. You can get it with the latest ultra-wide ‘Hyperscreen’ for instance, while rapid charging means drivers shouldn’t have to wait around too long for a top-up. 66 | November 2022 | SO Magazine

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

The EQS is available with a punchy all-wheel-drive setup in the range-topping Mercedes-AMG EQS 53. The car we’re testing is the more efficiency-focused 450+. It’s got a single rear-mounted motor with 325bhp and 568Nm of torque, which translates to a still-respectable 0-60mph time of just six seconds, while flat out it’ll manage up to 130mph. But the real draw is the range of the EQS. Mercedes claims you could see up to 453 miles from a single charge, which gives it one of the longest ranges of any EV on sale today. Capable of charging at up to 200kW, the EQS could top up its 107.8kWh battery from 1080% in 31 minutes when hooked up to a rapid charger. This equates to 186 miles of range for every 15 minutes spent on charge.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

The EQS manages to take some of the superb refinement that you get in the regular S-Class and only elevate the experience. Because there’s a lack of any engine noise, the cabin of the EQS is as hushed as you like, with both road and

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Much like the S-Class, the EQS comes with some of the very latest technology that Mercedes has to offer. Our test car didn’t come with the aforementioned ‘Hyperscreen’ – it’s available as a £7,995 optional extra on AMG Line Premium models and above – but it still had a large 12.8-inch central display alongside a 12.3-inch driver display. Both are brilliantly clear and easy to read, with the main infotainment touch controls being responsive and quick. Our Luxury Line car came in at £106,995 but had all of these features you’d expect from a car with this kind of price tag. Highlights included ship-deckstyle wood on the dashboard, 22-inch alloy wheels and even a fingerprint scanner so that drivers can instantly load their pre-selected settings at the press of a finger.

VERDICT

With its ultra-long range, there’s very little penalty for choosing it over a petrol or diesel option, while that silent powertrain only helps to elevate even further the hushed cabin experience that you get from a car of this type. Although its looks might not have us sold, in all other areas the EQS is a truly impressive proposition.