SOTC Issue 30 DIGTIAL

Spring/Summer Issue 30

Cardiff & The Vale

STYLE IN COWBRIDGE We take a closer look at this fabulous market town, located in the heart of the Vale.

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SEAMASTER #AQUATERRA 30 MM Co-Axial Master Chronometer

CONTENTS Spring/Summer 2026

Features

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P21 COVER FEATURE

Beauty & Wellness

Style in Cowbridge - discover the Vale's most stylish shopping spot.

Stay updated on the latest beauty and wellness trends.

P66 ANGELA GRAY COOKING Welsh cooking sensation Angela Gray shares her top recipes.

P53 WEDDINGS Everything you need to make your day perfect

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P48 EMMA'S COLUMN Writer and journalist Emma Meese on why midlife might be the best chapter yet

P59

COOKING & TRAVEL

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P60 L A VIDA TRAVEL SHARES THE BEST SUMMER BREAKS AVAILABLE.

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P62 S TYLE OF THE CITY IN CALIFORNIA P72 S ILURES COASTAL DINING IN THE HEART OF PENARTH

72 P12

Fashion Get inspired by the latest trends

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EDITOR’S LETTER

The Style Effect FOUNDER & EDITOR – IN – CHIEF Rosie Harris EVENTS & OPERATIONS MANAGER Cat Morgan FASHION EDITOR Karine Laudort CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Emma Meese Angela Gray Sarah Stephens Dr Anne Alison Style of the City Magazine Unit 3 Goodsheds Lofts Hood Road Barry CF62 5QT ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: rosie@sotcmag.uk

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i, you fabulous lot! Now that the weather is finally brightening up, I’m excited to bring you this new issue, filled with everything to give you that seasonal style pick-me-up.

This issue highlights the wonderful market town of Cowbridge. Just outside Cardiff, this gem in the Vale has become a favourite of mine—not only for its fantastic shops, but also for its strong sense of community and Welsh spirit, all set against a backdrop of historic charm.

From gorgeous places to eat such as the Penny Farthing, to incredible swim suits at Coco Plum Cowbridge, shoes galore and incredible pieces from JonIan and some preloved designer treasures from Vale Preloved to name a few, it's the perfect place to go for a nice weekend shopping trip with the girls and if you're in need of an event show stopper, the girls at Minnie May Closet are located on this iconic street.

I’m also thrilled to share that I was named Female Founder of the Year for Wales in the media category for Style of the City Magazine. This achievement means so much to me for many reasons. What began as just an idea while looking after my toddler has grown into my drive and passion; creating on-trend media is such a joy for me. Thank you to everyone who picks up the magazine and enjoys a good read or browse. I’m truly grateful to the Female Founder Awards for recognising Style of the City.

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Rosie Harris LEGAL DISCLAIMER: Legal Disclaimer: Style of the City Magazine does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information, product or service represented within our magazine.

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Style of the city 3

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Fairytale CASTLE

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS†

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£2000 OFF YOUR WINTER WEDDING*

Photo: sophiecollinsphotography.co.uk

4 Style of the city

SAY ‘I DO’ IN A 17TH CENTURY CASTLE There are many wedding venues in South Wales - but only one in a Grade 1 listed castle.

Think majestic turrets, sweeping staircases and gothic towers (perfect for photo opportunities!).

Our gorgeous castle is nestled in luscious, landscaped grounds with it’s own lake and jetty.

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01443 665803 | www.hensolcastle.com

† Excludes Hensol Castle Distillery & Atrium. *Terms & conditions apply, new bookings only.

Valid on winter 2026/27 weddings, minimum guest numbers apply. Subject to availability.

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Hensol Castle Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JX

Style of the city 5

Exclusive Creations: Individuality Defined

F

or millions of years, gemstones have been cherished for their beauty and individuality.

Sourced from every corner of the earth, in some of the most exotic landscapes, each one carries with it a story of heritage, discovery and geological innovation. The journey from mine to jewellery is one that fascinates admirers, adding only further to the allure of these exotic gemstones.

6 Style of the city

In a celebration of artistry, luxury jeweller, Laings, marries rare gemstones with exceptional design talent and craftsmanship. The Exclusive Creations range showcases gemstones hand-selected by a team of exceptional experts, transformed into beautiful designs that are individually crafted with a focus on

their unique nature. Expert curator, Leah Wylie plays a crucial role in the process: ‘With the Exclusive Creations collection, it is not only about sourcing gemstones that are of the highest quality but also those that can be visualised as part of an innovative design. We aim to select

The pieces were lovingly designed by Cardiff based, Adrien Leroux:

" When working on commissioned bespoke pieces our focus is on fusing the clients’ ideas with our expertise"

stones that will spark even more creativity in our designers and goldsmiths. For this collection in particular, we’ve chosen gems like spinel and chrysoberyl, stones that are often underrated in jewellery, yet possess extraordinary colour, vibrancy, and natural beauty.’

With over 185 years of expertise, Laings has been part of innovative jewellery design and craftsmanship for six generations. With a dedicated designer in each of their four showrooms, Laings are committed to nurturing craftsmanship, allowing creativity to take the lead. Lead Designer, Sarah Alexander, has expressed enthusiasm over the collection:

and express ourselves in ways in which we hadn’t before. Exclusive Creations weaves together historical influences, artistic eras, and contemporary trends, allowing each piece to be shaped by a rich blend of inspiration.’

While each piece in the collection is a truly unique, one-of-a-kind creation, the range is united by a series of elegant designs that appeal to a wide variety of tastes.

One standout example is the 2.12ct colour change garnet ring, a true hero of the collection. With an oval stone set in an east-west orientation, it is a magical marvel to behold. The magnificent pink colour-change garnet captivates with its shifting shades. Amongst the rarest garnet varieties, its hues transform under different lighting, inviting the eye to discover a world of wonder.

Other exotic and captivating gemstones in the creation include the imperial topaz jewellery set.

Comprising of ring, earrings and pendant, each of these pieces feature a mesmerising Brazilian imperial topaz. Glowing with rich golden hues, this rare treasure’s colour is formed naturally deep within the earth. Each piece in this set is set with SMO gold, reflecting a commitment to responsible sourcing and traceable craftsmanship.

"Imperial topaz has always felt regal to me, its golden glow is like sunlight captured in a gemstone. I chose SMO gold to honour that majesty with integrity, ensuring the beauty of the piece is matched by the story behind it.”

Laings Exclusive Creations collection celebrates not only the world’s most exceptional gemstones, but also the pinnacle of British craftsmanship. Each piece is carefully brought to life with a sense of timeless elegance, individuality, and refined artistry, resulting in treasures that are truly one‑of‑a‑kind.

The current selection of Exclusive Creations is available to view in the Laings Cardiff showroom, with new masterpieces unveiled throughout the year for clients to discover and delight in.

Discover fine jewellery and watches at Laings.

Laings Cardiff, St.David’s Centre, The Hayes, CF10 1GA

When working on commissioned bespoke pieces our focus is on fusing the clients’ ideas with our expertise.

However, Exclusive Creations has given each of us designers a chance to play with jewellery design Style of the city 7

Mazda Unveils MAZDA CX-6e New Battery EV in World Premiere Expanding EV Lineup to Flexibly Address Regional Needs with Multi-Solution Approach−

HIROSHIMA, Japan - Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the introduction of its new battery electric vehicle, the MAZDA CX-6e, to the European, Australian, and other markets. Making its world debut at the Brussels Motor 8 Style of the city

Show in Belgium on January 9 (local time), the MAZDA CX-6e is scheduled to launch in Europe this summer, with plans for introduction in Australia later this year.

Building on the MAZDA EZ-60 unveiled at last year's Shanghai Motor Show, the new Mazda CX-6e is the second model in Mazda's collaborative battery EV lineup introduced globally,

partner, Chongqing Changan Automobile Co., Ltd., offering a versatile solution to suit a variety of lifestyles.

In terms of design, it embodies the "FUTURE + SOUL x MODERN" concept, blending sculptural beauty with advanced technology. Driving dynamics enhance "Jinba-ittai" through handling and ride comfort optimized for European market preferences. In addition, a suite of intelligent technologies — including voice and gesture recognition, advanced driver assistance systems, and digital side mirrors — ensures a safer, more comfortable mobility experience.

In the European market, the MAZDA 6e battery electric vehicle, a mid-size sedan launched last September, has been well received, achieving cumulative sales of over 7,000 units since its launch. With the introduction of the MAZDA CX-6e, Mazda further expands its battery EV lineup to meet customer demand.

Mazda will continue to pursue the "Joy of Driving" under its core value of "Radically Human," and aim to deliver the "Joy of Living" by creating exciting mobility experiences in our customers' daily lives.

following the MAZDA 6e. This crossover SUV combines Mazda's signature design and "Jinbaittai" (human-machine unity) driving performance with the electrification and intelligent technologies of its collaboration

Style of the city 9

Redefining Your Image in Your 50s: A Powerful New Chapter There’s a quiet but profound shift that often happens in your 50s. Priorities evolve, perspectives sharpen, and the need to live authentically becomes less of a wish and more of a requirement. Redefining your image at this stage isn’t about reinvention for the sake of appearance—it’s about alignment. It’s about making sure how you present yourself reflects who you’ve become.

Start with Identity, Not Appearance

This could mean:

Before changing anything external, take stock internally. Who are you now? Your 50s often brings clarity: you know what matters, what doesn’t, and what you’re no longer willing to tolerate. Your image should reflect that confidence and self-awareness.

• Letting go of styles that no longer feel like “you”

Ask yourself: • What do I want people to feel when they meet me?

• What values define me today?

• What parts of my current image feel outdated or inauthentic?

Clarity here becomes your foundation.

Refine, Don’t Reinvent You don’t need a dramatic overhaul. In fact, the most powerful transformations in your 50s are subtle and intentional. Think refinement rather than reinvention.

10 Style of the city

• Updating your wardrobe with uplifting colours or better-fitting pieces

• Choosing quality over quantity

The goal is coherence—everything working together to express a confident, grounded version of yourself.

Embrace Confidence as Your Signature Confidence in your 50s looks different than it did in your 20s or 30s. It’s quieter, steadier, and rooted in experience. This is your greatest asset—and it should be visible.

When you know how to dress with intention, this gives you the greatest confidence.

Update Your Personal Style Narrative

Ready to find YOU?

Your style tells a story. The question is: is it still the right one?

Your 50s aren’t a windingdown phase—they’re a recalibration. A chance to strip away what no longer fits and step fully into who you are now.

Maybe you’ve moved on from a high-pressure career, or you’re stepping into a new phase— consulting, mentoring, creating, or exploring. Your image should evolve alongside these changes.

Redefining your image isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about becoming more you—with intention, clarity, and confidence.

Consider:

And that’s not just powerful—it’s life changing.

• Does your style reflect where you are now, or where you used to be?

If you’re feeling inspired to take your style to the next level, schedule a free style consultation to receive tailored advice and actionable strategies.

• Does it communicate approachability, fun, creativity—or something else?

You’re not dressing for your past. You’re dressing for your present and future.

Invest in Grooming and Self-Care Self-care becomes less about trends and more about sustainability and wellbeing. Small, consistent habits can dramatically impact how you feel and how others perceive you.

QR CODE to Calendly Let go of ideas like: • “I should dress my age” (instead, dress your identity) • “It’s too late to try something new”

@loveyourlook_ online for daily style inspiration, expert fashion tips, and behind-the-scenes transformations!

• “People expect me to stay the same” Growth doesn’t have an expiration date.

This might include: • A refreshed hairstyle that complements your current features

Align Your Outer Image with Your Inner Growth

• A quick and simple makeup routine that gives you a fresh and bright appearance

Ultimately, redefining your image is about alignment. When your external presentation matches your internal evolution, something powerful happens—you feel more confident, more visible, and more in control of you.

Remember when you look good on the outside it impacts how you feel on the inside.

Let Go of Limiting Beliefs One of the biggest barriers to redefining your image is the belief that it’s “too late” to change. It’s not.

In fact, your 50s can be one of the most liberating times to evolve.

This alignment shows up in: • The way you walk into a room • The conversations you initiate • The opportunities you attract

Style of the city 11

Hobbs Chartreuse Gold Jumper £69

Reiss Floral Print Lace-Trim Blouse £158

Céline Palm Leaves & Calfskin Panier £490 Karen Millen Tailored Blazer £143.20

THE NEW CLASSICS:

HERITAGE TAILORING

Classic wardrobe icons are redefined for spring with sharper cuts and a lighter, more fluid approach. From the timeless trench to polished tailoring, heritage dressing feels modern again, less rigid, more wearable.

It’s about investing in pieces that balance tradition with contemporary ease, delivering effortless sophistication for everyday.

Lacoste Linen Shirt Dress £165

BY: KARINE LAUDORT

Whistles Double Ring Buckle Belt £55

Ted Baker Sheer Mesh Stiletto £60 £129

Burberry Ellingham Flare Trench Coat £2,095 12 Style of the city

Ray-Ban RB2221 Oval Frames £212.00

Polo Ralph Lauren Cotton Beaton Trousers £235

Oliver Bonas £28

Uniqlo £79.90

Nobody’ Child £75 Charles & Keith £79

Quiet Luxury Revisited:

Elevated Essentials

Bonmarché £70

Minimalism evolves this season with a focus on refined basics that work harder in your wardrobe.

Clean lines, neutral tones and soft tailoring create a polished yet approachable aesthetic. These are the pieces you reach for daily, simple, versatile, and quietly luxurious without ever feeling overdone.

BY: KARINE LAUDORT

Office £26.00 £59.99

Guess £57 £95.00

Mango £89.99 COS £269

Arket £54.99 £119.00

Style of the city 13

Dune London £69

After Youth £65 Accessorize £38.50 £55.00

Missoni £860

CRAFTED WITH CHARACTER, BOHEMIAN CHIC

Monsoon £65

Spring embraces a more expressive mood, where texture, print and craftsmanship take centre stage. Crochet, embroidery and bold colourways bring personality back into dressing, while relaxed silhouettes keep the look grounded. This is bohemia with intent, curated, elevated and designed for confident, individual style.

BY: KARINE LAUDORT

BA&SH £235

Baé £392.66

GRLONDONPARIS £550

Desigual £109

Anthropologie £130

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Hermès Scarf £520

FASHION

Finlay & Co. Lexington Sunglasses £200 CDLP £185 (set of 3 tee-shirts)

Tag Hauer Connected Calibre E5 - 40 mm, Steel £1,350

Sunspel Shirt £185

THE NEW CODE OF MENSWEAR

Ami Wide-leg pants £530

Modern menswear shifts towards a more relaxed approach to tailoring, where structure meets ease. Lightweight fabrics, softened silhouettes and neutral tones redefine smart dressing for spring. The focus is on versatility, pieces that transition seamlessly from work to weekend while maintaining a sharp, considered aesthetic.

Sandqvist Backpack £114.99

BY: KARINE LAUDORT

Axel Arigato Sneakers £215

Folk Jacket (Working Class Heroes) £96 £160.00 40% off

G.H Bass Loafers £160

John Smedley Jumper £235

Reiss Blazer £278

Style of the city 15

TRAVEL & LEISURE

PREMIUM AT UTILITA ARENA CARDIFF The Utilita Arena has a range of premium spaces and upgrades available for you to enjoy. Whether you are looking to grab a preshow meal, enjoy a night of comedy with family with The Suite Experience or bring your friends for a night of fun in The Engergise Club we have a number of options for you to choose from.

The Suite Experience This package gives you everything you could need for a premium night out – a 2-course meal with complimentary arrival drink, balcony seating to watch your favourite show and access to a suite with a private bar.

Your pre-show menu will be served in our L2 Restaurant, and our team will guide you every step of the way when you join us for that special show.

Energise Club The Energise Club is our newest premium offer at the arena, with seating overlooking the main arena and a private space for you to enjoy every show in style.

Flexible seating and a private bar compliment this club so you can enjoy your night with friends or family.

This space is also available to hire for private groups (subject to availability) so you can really have a party while watching your favourite act.

L2 Restaurant Our highly-rated L2 Restaurant, situated on Level 2 of the arena, offers a fantastic bistro style menu available prior to shows at the arena. Our chef and his team use the finest ingredients, locally-sourced wherever possible to produce seasonal dishes that not only look good but also taste good.

You can upgrade you’re your ticket to include L2 Restaurant from just £35 per person once you have purchased your show ticket.

Pre-Show Bars Upgrades available on most shows, this pre-show bar upgrade allows you to access the bar prior to doors opening so you can relax in comfort while waiting for the show to begin. The upgrade is also a queue jump for the main doors (excludes any VIP early entry) and you also benefit from discounted drinks.

For more information contact hospitality.cardiff@livenation. co.uk or visit www.utilitaarena.cardiff.co.uk/premium Style of the city 17

De Courceys Manor…

For the Moments That Truly Matter Not all venues are created to be taken over.

A

short journey from Cardiff, De Courceys Manor is not simply a place to hire, but a private-use estate that happens to host weddings exceptionally well.

Sixteen years ago, the manor was acquired with clear potential.

Today, under the ownership of Rachel Dancey, it has been

18 Style of the city

shaped into a space that runs with clarity, consistency and quiet control, whatever the occasion.

The estate is entirely selfcontained. Cottages, a private apartment, the Secret Garden and the Pamper and Prep Suite sit alongside the main house, allowing everything to unfold in one place.

Weddings remain at the heart of the manor’s story. Each one is delivered with the confidence that comes from years of experience, allowing the day

to flow beautifully, creating a seamless experience.

But the manor was never built to do just one thing.

For businesses, it offers a more intelligent alternative to standard venues. Within easy reach of the city yet removed from its pace, it provides a setting where teams can think clearly, speak openly and spend time well.

There are no shared spaces. No interruptions. No competing

Sixteen years of ownership brings a depth of experience that cannot be replicated.

priorities. Just an environment where board meetings, strategy days and conferences are delivered with discretion, control and attention to detail.

For private clients, the same approach applies.

From milestone birthdays and anniversaries to christenings and family gatherings, each event is shaped around the people at its centre. There is no fixed format, no imposed structure. Only a clear understanding of what matters, and the experience to deliver it with ease.

Food plays a central role in every event at the manor.

Prepared on site, menus are seasonal, locally sourced and built around flavour. Whether an intimate dinner or a larger celebration, the emphasis is on quality, consistency and presentation, ensuring that what is served is remembered long after the event itself.

Gemma Langley Photography

What sets De Courceys apart is the ability to host everything in one place, without compromise.

Accommodation, preparation spaces and flexible event areas allow each occasion to flow as it should, without disruption.

Sixteen years of ownership brings a depth of understanding that cannot be replicated.

Every detail is anticipated.

Every element is managed and delivered with care and consistency.

In a market where many venues feel interchangeable, De Courceys Manor offers something more defined. A place shaped by experience, built around people, and designed for those who expect more.

For those planning something important, this is one to see in person.

For those planning an event this year, it may be closer than expected.

enquiries@decourceys. co.uk 02920 892232 www.decourceys.co.uk Style of the city 19

Get Your Business Noticed Today

Print Advertising · Digital Campaigns · Social Media

Brand Consultations · Video Marketing PR and Marketing Development 96 Style of the city

COVER FEATURE Photography Yolanda Kingdon

STYLE IN COWBRIDGE

Discover Cowbridge, the treasure of the Vale.

A mere stone's throw from Cardiff, in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan, sits the cherished market town of Cowbridge, its character and charm a testament to its rich history. From a Roman settlement to a lively Victorian hub, Cowbridge now stands as a stylish destination, thanks to its unique independent shops and vibrant Welsh community.

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he high street and heart of Cowbridge highlight the dedication and enthusiasm of local independents. Visit wellness havens like Vale Wellness and Soul & Soma or indulge in

beauty at Beauty within MediSpa . Delight in thoughtfully curated homeware, women’s clothing, and home fragrances at No. 39 Cowbridge. For flower lovers, Wild n Fabulous Flowers is a must-see florist. Discover stunning swimwear at Coco Plum Cowbridge, browse an excellent bookshop, and stock up on stationery at The Pencil Case, a gorgeous stationery spot—making back-to-school shopping a breeze.

Vintage Homestore stands out as a treasure trove of vintage, retro, and antique pieces. It’s the ideal place to find something

22 Style of the city

unique—definitely one to add to your shopping list.

With Royal Ascot looming and summer events and weddings ahead, we love Minnie May Closet for fashion rental pieces.

Jewellery from Amanda Jones Jewellery, known for its artistic, unique handcrafted designs, is also a favourite. With over 55 years in business, JonIan remains a trusted place to indulge in its ever-growing retail and shoe collections.

STYLE IN COWBRIDGE

It’s not just the women who are catered for; King Fox Menswear is a standout presence on the high street, thanks to its bold coloured shop front and exquisite menswear pieces from tailor-made suits, to scarves, ties, cravats and lots more.

The high street buzzes with energy, perfect for an afternoon of shopping. Recently, Vale Preloved has become a destination for one-of-a-kind pre-loved designer pieces, including bags and shoes. Expect to be delighted by the variety.

Needing a staycation with style? The Bear Hotel sits at the heart of Cowbridge, offering much-needed breaks, relaxed evenings, seasonal celebrations, and rooms designed for a cosy country feel. It’s dog-friendly, so your four-legged friends can enjoy their stay as much as you do; The perfect refuge after a fun-filled shopping day and summer evening.

For those with a sweet tooth, you are truly in for a treat. Cocoa & Co, a luxury Belgian chocolate shop tucked away just off the high street, has a stunning collection of chocolate goodies; you can even build your own

bespoke chocolate box; life is truly a box of chocolates here.

For an ice cream treat, or just a sweet treat in general, Fablas Ice Cream Cowbridge is your go-to spot for sweet indulgences, offering ice cream, milkshakes, and more. Don’t miss their custard slices—they’re delicious!

There is so much to discover in Cowbridge with these spots, and so much more. Cowbridge's cosy country feel, strong Welsh community, and, at its heart, a shopping experience with real substance, thanks to the quality of the independents who make it the perfect style spot.

Needing a staycation with style? The Bear Hotel sits at the heart of Cowbridge, offering much-needed breaks, relaxed evenings, seasonal celebrations, and rooms designed for a cosy country feel Style of the city 23

VALE FEATURE

Vale

Pre-Loved New to Cowbridge High Street, Vale Pre-Loved has opened its doors to the Cowbridge retail community offering customers a wide range of pre-loved pieces from labels such as Moschino and Essential Antwerp, to Dior and Chanel.

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ridgend-born founder, Liz Lewis, has called Cowbridge home for over 30 years, and is now a proud part of the business community. Seeing a clear gap for luxurious style, and an aim to battle fast-fashion, Liz combined her skills from a successful career in business, to offer just that, to the South Wales community.

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VALE FEATURE How does Vale Pre-Loved Work?

Vale Pre-Loved offers a hasslefree way of parting with your high end labels & designer pieces. Simply drop off your wares between 10am and 5pm, Tuesday - Saturday, and the team will talk you through the sales process. They will then display your items for sale, for up to 8 weeks, and once the piece is sold, you receive 50% of the retail price, within 5 working days after the sale.

Vale Pre-Loved aims to create a sustainable boutique, where preowned luxury goods can find new homes.

With a fresh and modern interior, and friendly team and service, Vale Pre-Loved is more than a boutique, offering advice, encouragement and confidence to every customer who walks through the door. With curated racks, with hand selected pieces from dresses and outerwear, to bags and accessories, Vale PreLoved offers everything to add to your wardrobe.

If you’re looking for a new label in your wardrobe, a vintage piece of fashion history, or to even sell some of your own designer wares, pop into Vale Pre-Loved!

Contact Vale Pre-Loved: 07813984496 lizlewis76@icloud.com @valepreloved_ 13 High Street, Cowbridge, CF71 7AD www.valepreloved.co.uk

Style of the city 25

VALE FEATURE

COWBRIDGE RESTAURANTS

Thai Elephant

Toscana

Barbacoa Bar & Tapas

Freshly prepared Thai cuisine, with dishes such as Pad Thai, and Tom Yam Goong.

Timeless Italian restaurant, offering fresh comforting classics, and seasonal specialties.

Delicious and authentic small plates, paired with speciality drinks.

The Penny Farthing

The Bear

Mughal Emperor

Chic Georgian tea house, located on Cowbridge High Street, offering a full bar, and all-day menu.

Al fresco dining on Cowbridge High Street, with locally sourced dishes.

Offering genuine dishes from all districts of India and Bangladesh.

26 Style of the city

Cocoplum We’re Alex and Abigail, the mother-and-daughter team behind Cocoplum, an independent boutique in the heart of Cowbridge High Street. We offer a carefully curated collection of womenswear, swimwear available all year round, nightwear, lingerie, accessories, and much more.

At Cocoplum, we are passionate about providing every customer with a warm, personal shopping experience, alongside a complimentary alteration service on all in-store purchases.

Whether you’re local or visiting the area, we’d love to welcome you into the boutique for a browse. If you can’t make it in person, you can shop online at Cocoplum.store and follow us on social media to stay up to date with our latest arrivals and new collections.’

Instagram @cocoplum_cowbridge Tik tok @cocoplum.boutique Facebook Cocoplum cowbridge cocoplum.store

At the heart of Simply You is the core belief to make the most of who you are and to be yourself.

Charlotte Leeke is a fully qualified, award winning Colour Me Beautiful Personal Stylist, Colour and Image Consultant based in the beautiful rural market town of Cowbridge in the Vale of Glamorgan. Charlotte offers the full range of colour, style, full image and make-up consultations for individuals, groups, parties and businesses as well as Wardrobe Edits and Personal Shopping Trips. Charlotte is also in demand giving talks and presentations to WI’s, organisations and businesses throughout South Wales.

A recent client summarised her consultation with Charlotte: “I cannot speak highly enough of Charlotte and her incredibly talented eye for colour. Charlotte is passionate and extremely knowledgeable about colour analysis and explains the whole process clearly. It was such an exciting experience seeing the effects of the different colour drapes and how the right colours make the skin clearer, eyes brighter and face younger. I now feel I can shop for clothes and dress with confidence,

ease and authenticity... definitely an investment that pays off everyday. It really is life changing! Thank you so much Charlotte!”

Get in touch to find out more about Simply You’s consultations and services: Charlotte@SimplyYou.org.uk www.SimplyYou.org.uk

Style of the city 27

Science Backed. Soul Led. Physio-led Pilates & women’s health in Cowbridge

@soul.andsoma

www.soulandsoma.co.uk

info@soulandsoma.co.uk

Soul & Soma: Where Clinical Expertise Meets Modern Movement in Cowbridge

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ucked away in the heart of Cowbridge, Soul & Soma is a physio-led wellness studio offering a more intelligent, personalised approach to movement and health. Blending clinical expertise with a calm, boutique environment, it has become a destination for those seeking something beyond traditional fitness.

health, postnatal recovery and injury rehabilitation, the studio combines clinical precision with a compassionate, whole-body approach.

Founded by a musculoskeletal physiotherapist, the studio is rooted in evidence-based care while embracing a slower, more mindful way of moving. With a growing specialism in women’s health and pelvic wellbeing, Soul & Soma supports clients through all stages of life - while remaining an inclusive space for both women and men.

What sets the studio apart is its uniquely clinical-led team. All Pilates sessions are taught by qualified physiotherapists, while yoga and movement classes are led by experienced instructors and healthcare professionals, including osteopaths, nurses and occupational therapists. This depth of expertise ensures every session is not only beautifully delivered, but grounded in a true understanding of the body.

Set against the charm of Cowbridge, Soul & Soma offers a refreshing alternative to fast-paced fitness spaces

The studio offers private and smallgroup Reformer and Mat Pilates, alongside yoga and restorative movement classes designed to build strength, improve alignment and support nervous system regulation.

Sessions are intentionally intimate, allowing for a highly personalised experience where clients feel both guided and understood.

Alongside classes, Soul & Soma provides one-to-one physiotherapy, clinical massage and specialist services including the Mummy MOT. With a strong focus on pelvic

Set against the charm of Cowbridge, Soul & Soma offers a refreshing alternative to fast-paced fitness spaces - creating an environment where movement feels purposeful, and wellbeing is approached with depth and care.

Whether you’re recovering from injury, building strength, navigating postnatal or midlife changes, or simply looking to move with more intention, Soul & Soma is a space designed to support you - wherever you’re starting from.

Contact info@soulandsoma.co.uk 07961 691679 @soul.andsoma soulandsoma.co.uk

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VALE FEATURE

55 Years in Business – Jon Ian

Jon Ian in Cowbridge, the fashion & shoe boutique that continues to make waves on the high street, forever in style.

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stablished in 1971 Jon Ian has been a destination on our Highstreet for 55 years.

The family run business that has lasted the test time, always evolving and trying to keep ahead of trends. A pandemic and a few successive lockdowns later and Jon Ian is still here, full of enthusiasm, and excitement for the future. This is due to the passion of Esther Hitchcock and her team around her.

When you enter the store located on Cowbridge Highstreet it is evident this is a haven for lovers of fashion. Collections of exquisite footwear and stand out pieces for your wardrobe are displayed beautifully within the boutique. The attention to detail is iconic as Esther and her merchandising team collate the pieces together, matching colours and themes to create a story throughout the store.

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It is refreshing to enter a store and feel at ease knowing you have friendly advice to guide you through the whole shopping experience.

VALE FEATURE There are a number of stylists at hand to help you - whether you are looking for specifi c pieces to inject a fresh look into your wardrobe, or require a head to toe re style. It is refreshing to enter a store and feel at ease knowing you have friendly advice to guide you through the whole shopping experience.

Esther and the team recently celebrated this landmark birthday with a fabulous Fifty Five & Flourishing Fashion Show in Cowbridge Physic Garden raising funds for Horatio’s Garden - a charity supporting those in NHS Spinal Facilities by creating beautiful gardens for Spinal Units all over the country.

Esther’s greatest advice piece of advice for those shopping in Jon Ian? Get in that changing room!

Sometimes pieces that you think won’t suit can truly come alive when put on, so you can’t let a lack of hanger appeal dissuade you!

www.jonian.shop

" Get in that changing room! Sometimes pieces that you think won’t suit can truly come alive when put on" Style of the city 31

COWBRIDGE DIRECTORY

The Cowbridge

Directory

Wild & Fabulous

Forage Farm

Fablas

Where to Eat & Drink

Fashion

• Forage Farm Shop & Kitchen

• Jon Ian

• The Bear

• Vale Pre-Loved

• The Penny Farthing

• Minnie May Closet

• Elephant & Bun Delicatessen

• No39 of Cowbridge

• Noble Grape

• Happy Days Vintage Home Store

• The Cross Inn • Barbacoa • Pear Kitchen (Vegan) • Thai Elephant

Sloana Home

• Goose Island • Cocoplum • Tallia

• Toscana

• The Vintage HQ

Coffee Spots

• Bee & Bloom

• The Pencil Case

• King Fox Menswear

• Stwff-Stuff

• Ground Bakery

• Tiki Surf & Snow

• The Cowbridge Book Shop

• 96 Degrees Coffee & Micro Roastery

• JRC Jewellry

• Restore & Adore

• The Brunch Hut

• Amanda Jones Jewellery

• Sloane Home

• E91

• Thornbush Hill Home Fragrance, Bath & Body Care

• Cocoa & Co Cowbridge

• Bethan Jones

Home

• Hare & Hounds Bakery

• Bathrooms of Cowbridge

• Maple & Bean

• Wild and Fabulous Flowers

• Lilly’s Diner

• The Bay Tree

• Fablas Ice Cream Cowbridged

• Cowbridge Flowers

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COWBRIDGE DIRECTORY Clay & Craft

Noble Grape

Wellness & Beauty

Art & Culture

• Vale Wellness

• Jenny Lambert Art

• Soul & Soma

• Alchemy of Cowbridge

• Beauty Box Cowbridge

• Clay & Craft

• Beauty Within Spa

• Kingfisher Gallery

• Marooned Hair Salon

• The Old Wool Barn

• Thryve Clinic

• The Cowbridge Craft Hub

King Fox Menswear

• Enaid Healing Hub • Rainbird Relaxation • Studio Viva Ladies Fitness • HOBBS Hairdressing • Blossom Hair • VADAtelier • Y Bont Faen Dental • Cowbridge Dental Specialists • Cowbridge Dental Care • Love Lagree

Bee & Bloom

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BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Cutting Edge Health & Wellness Therapy In the heart of Cowbridge

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Why Vale Wellness?

ale Wellness is proud to become the first centre in Wales to offer NESA® Neuromodulation Therapy - an innovative, non-invasive treatment designed to support the nervous system, recovery and overall wellbeing.

Founded by Dr Anne Alison, Vale Wellness combines modern medicine with a personalised, holistic approach to healthcare.

Vale Wellness also offers private GP appointments, physiotherapy, consultant-led clinics, dietetics services and weight management support - providing expert care for your health and all under one roof.

What is NESA® Therapy?

A painless, drug-free therapy using gentle low-frequency microcurrents delivered through wearable electrodes placed on the hands and feet. Sessions are relaxing, comfortable and typically last 30-60 minutes.

The treatment may support patients experiencing: • Chronic pain & fibromyalgia • Fatigue & low energy • Stress & anxiety • Sleep problems • Headaches & migraines • Muscle recovery • Nervous system disorders

Book a Consultation Vale Wellness, Cowbridge 01446 789740 valegp.co.uk 34 Style of the city

The multi award-winning Vale Wellness, combines modern medicine with a personalised, holistic approach to healthcare.

Services include private GP appointments, Adult and Paediatric ADHD clinics, physiotherapy, consultant-led clinics, vasectomy and men’s health services, psychology, dietetics and weight management support. Vale Wellness also offers reflexology, pilates and breathwork, supporting both physical and mental wellbeing under one roof. Vale Wellness will also become home to specialist skin and plastic surgery and ENT services, with additional holistic services launching later in 2026. As an approved Randox testing centre, Vale Wellness also provides advanced blood testing and diagnostic services.

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BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Spring Into Confidence: A Fresh Start for Your Smile

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s the days get longer and life moves outdoors again, spring and summer are the perfect time for a reset - and your smile should be part of it. At Y Bont Faen Dental Centre, this season is all about confidence, feeling good, and showing up as your best self.

From weddings and holidays to garden parties and sunny catch-

ups, your smile is on display more than ever. A great smile isn't just about how it looks - it's about how it feels. Comfort, health, and confidence all go hand in hand.

That's why we focus on prevention first. Simple, regular visits - examinations, hygiene appointments, and tailored advice - help keep everything on track and stop small issues becoming big problems. It's dentistry designed to fit your life, not interrupt it.

Spring is also the ideal time to start something transformative.

Thinking about whitening for a fresher, brighter look?

Considering Invisalign to finally straighten your teeth? Starting now means you'll see real results just in time for summer's biggest moments. With advanced digital scanning and precise planning, we make the journey straightforward, predictable, and tailored to you.

And it's not just about treatment - it's about how you feel walking through the door. Our team prides itself on creating a relaxed, welcoming environment where patients feel listened to, understood, and genuinely cared for. Whether you're a regular visitor or haven't been to the dentist in years, you'll be met with empathy, clarity, and a clear plan forward.

So if your smile has been on your mind, take this as your sign.

A small step now can make a big difference in how you look and feel over the months ahead.

Contact us to book in today.

01446 771163 smile@ybontfaendental.com 36 Style of the city

At Y Bont Faen Dental Centre, we're here to help you achieve spectacular smiles for life.

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Iconic Faces Collective is a Cardiff based modelling agency redefining modern beauty through a curated roster of diverse, striking, and authentic talent.

We pride ourselves on representing individuals who embody confidence, presence, and individuality, bringing a refined, elevated edge to every project we are part of.

Our journey so far has been incredible.

We've been shortlisted as finalists for both the UK Start-Up Awards and the Small Business Network Awards for Best New Business. We’re also celebrating a major recent win… but you’ll have to watch this space, as we can’t reveal it just yet.

We collaborate with luxury brands, visionary creatives, and forward-thinking clients seeking more than just models.

We offer presence, influence, and impact.

From high-end campaigns to exclusive events, Iconic Faces Collective delivers talent that commands attention.

Create something unforgettable with us. @iconicfaces_collective iconicfacescollective.com Style of the city 37

W W W.T I M E S T W O . O R G

C I N E M AT I C W E D D I N G F I L M S & P H OTO G R A P H Y

There’s something extraordinary about the fleeting moments of a wedding day - the anticipation before the ceremony, the emotion in a parent’s face, the atmosphere as evening begins to unfold. At Times Two, we create cinematic wedding films and photography that feel honest, elegant and deeply personal. Rooted in documentary storytelling and shaped by a background in commercial filmmaking, our work captures the true essence of a celebration without ever interrupting it.

every story begins with two.

D I S C OV E R M O R E H E L LO @ T I M E S T WO.O R G T I M E SX T WO

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BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

Ask Dr Anne The ADHD Edit Style of the City’s resident doctor, Dr Anne Alison, discusses two very common questions people have, when it comes to ADHD diagnoses and treatments.

Here in the UK, the process of assessment usually starts with your GP, who can discuss your concerns and, if appropriate, refer you to a specialist service. Unfortunately there are often very long waiting times for NHS services. Some people explore private assessments.

It is important that these are thorough, evidence based and include information about your childhood and current troubles from people that know you well such as parents, partners or close friends.

Q: I think I have ADHDwhat should I do about it?

If you are wondering if you have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), you are not alone. Many adults first recognise the signs in themselves later in life-often when work, relationships or daily organisation start to feel persistently harder than they should, or if their child has recently been given a diagnosis of ADHD. The first step is to pause and reflect. ADHD isn’t just about being distracted or busy. Modern life is

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stressful and can feel overwhelming, for many reasons. In people with a diagnosis of ADHD, there is a pattern of longstanding difficulties with attention, organisation, impulsivity or restlessness that begins in childhood and continues across most areas of life. It can help to think about whether these challenges have been consistent over time and whether they are causing meaningful problems in day-to-day functioning. If you think this pattern could apply to you and you are experiencing distress or difficulties, it is worth considering whether a diagnosis could be helpful for you.

While exploring options or waiting for an assessment, there are practical steps that can help regardless of diagnosis. These usually are based on developing helpful systems to support you, such as using reminders and regular routines, breaking tasks into smaller steps and reducing distractions.

These can all make a meaningful difference irrespective of diagnosis.

Finally, be cautious about selfdiagnosis. The internet is a wealth of information and there are lots of helpful first-hand accounts from people with personal experience of ADHD on social media platforms. However there is often no regulation or governance to provide reassurance that what is being said is reliable or accurate, and sometimes there can be a branding or sales motive linked to the content. ADHD shares features with many other conditions such as stress, anxiety, trauma, sleep disorders, drug and alcohol misuse and low mood-so a careful clinical assessment that considers alternative diagnoses or explanations is essential.

BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE If ADHD is diagnosed, effective treatments are available including psychological strategies, lifestyle changes and medication. The goal isn’t to change who you are, more to become a better and happier version of yourself by making the challenges of life easier.

Mindfulness practice and Breathwork has a growing body of evidence within ADHD and is a safe and relaxing activity to promote a peaceful and more focussed mind.

Q: I’m reluctant to take medication-what else can I do?

within this food such as emulsifiers, preservatives and stabilisers cause a dysbiotic gut microbiome which can negatively affect nutrient absorption, sleep quality, blood sugar stability and generalised inflammation, with the obvious impact this has on mood and concentration.

Reluctance to take medication is understandable and more common than you might think! Many of our patients who receive a diagnosis from our Resident Psychiatrist or Paediatrician are keen to explore non-pharmacological options and for many these approaches are not just sufficient but genuinely transformative.

The most evidence backed non-pharmacological treatment for ADHD in adults is cognitive behavioural therapy or CBT. Adapted specifically for ADHD, it addresses the patterns of thinking and behaviour that make focus, planning and follow-through so difficult. It equips you with practical tools and crucially the insight to use them. Health coaching can also help develop practical, goal-orientated focus on day to day functioning.

Environmental and structural changes such as consistent routines and activity planning can also be helpful. Designing your life to work with your brain (rather than against it!) can help focus and achievement and reduce frustration and fatigue.

There is now compelling evidence that a healthy lifestyle can also improve ADHD symptoms. Regular aerobic exercise is probably the most powerful natural intervention available-improving attention, mood and executive function. Sleep quality is equally important-we have all experienced the brain fog effects of a fitful nights sleep, the effects of which are amplified if you have ADHD. Dietary improvements will also help-ensuring a regular nutritious whole food diet provides nourishment to the brain thereby improves cognitive function.

Avoiding UPF (ultra processed foods) is also imperative-chemicals

Mindfulness practice and Breathwork has a growing body of evidence within ADHD and is a safe and relaxing activity to promote a peaceful and more focussed mind.

There is also growing interest in non-invasive neuromodulation as a complimentary approach, such as the NESA device. Imperceptible electrical micro-currents are delivered via electrodes to the skin, to gently (and painlessly!)

recalibrate the over-stimulated autonomic nervous system, promoting sleep, stress regulation and cognitive function. This can also be very helpful for individuals without ADHD. One thing worth keeping in mind:it is entirely reasonable to use these approaches both before medication is initiated, but also in conjunction with pharmacological treatment as approaches can compliment each other very well. My advice would be to work with your specialist in finding a bespoke approach combining western medicine with a holistic approach that is tailored for you.

Dr Anne Alison is a practicing NHS GP, Medical Director of Vale Wellness and a medical writer.

Questions can be submitted via the magazine’s website and social channels. This column is for general informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a medical professional if you are worried about any of the topics mentioned in this article.

Style of the city 41

BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

Natural Aesthetics with Jo Ferriday Medical Aesthetics At Jo Ferriday Medical Aesthetics, not only will you receive a highly personalised approach, crafted bespoke for each individual, you will also be at the hands of a highly experienced practitioner.

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ith over 17 years of experience, and being a highly sought-after Advanced Level 7 in Medical Aesthetics, Registered Nurse Prescriber specialising in nonsurgical rejuvenation and wellness, Jo offers each client an opportunity to enhance and lean into their natural beauty.

and development, Jo is very proud to be a part of a community that genuinely supports one another, shares knowledge, and gives nurses a voice. Working in aesthetics can sometimes feel quite isolating, with many practitioners working independently, which is why the BAMAN community is important to both Jo, and her services to clients.

Jo is also a Regional Lead for BAMAN, which is the UK’s largest professional association for nurses in medical aesthetics, which plays an important role in helping industry professionals to grow and develop.

Providing community, support,

Advocating for a bespoke phased treatment approach, empowers patients to make informed decisions without feeling rushed, or influenced. And with a genuine passion for aesthetic medicine, and a wealth of experience, you are sure to be in safe and knowledgeable hands.

Prioritising ethical practice above all else, and only giving honest recommendations to clients, Jo firmly believes in treating everyone equally, never recommending unnecessary treatments.

With clients spanning across the UK, opting to visit Jo in her Barry practice, all because of her approach to aesthetics, and patient care.

" Jo’s approach is focused on helping you become the best version of yourself, achieving naturallooking and beautiful results through the latest treatment innovations. “ Jo goes above and beyond to provide a professional service and I wouldn’t go anywhere else.” - Kirsty

joferriday.co.uk joferriday@yahoo.co.uk 07533 396216 42 Style of the city

BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

Jo Ferriday Aesthetics Answers your Questions about the Industry QUESTION

QUESTION

QUESTION

With over 17 years of industry experience, what would you say has changed the most in the aesthetics world?

You emphasize natural beauty as part of your business ethos, how do you enact this in practice?

What is the biggest misconception about aesthetics, that you would like to dissuade?

The biggest shift has been the move towards subtle, regenerative treatments rather than obvious, overfilled results. Patients are far more informed now and are seeking long-term skin health, not just quick fixes.

Natural results are at the core of everything I do. I take a full-face approach, assessing balance, proportions, and skin quality rather than focusing on one isolated area.

That results should be instant and dramatic. In reality, the best outcomes often take time and require a combination of treatments.

There’s also been a huge advancement in products and technology, allowing us to work more intelligently—stimulating collagen, improving skin quality, and restoring rather than altering.

For me, it’s been incredible to see the industry evolve into one that prioritises natural results, safety, and evidence-based practice.

I always say less is more—using the right product, in the right place, at the right time. Treatment plans are tailored and often phased, allowing results to build gradually and harmoniously.

It’s about enhancing what’s already there, not changing how someone looks—so patients still look like themselves, just fresher and more confident.

Another misconception is that aesthetics is purely about filler.

Although filler is an important part of many journeys, skin quality is everything—treatments that stimulate collagen and improve the skin often make the biggest difference.

Ultimately, good aesthetics should be undetectable. People should notice you look well, not that you’ve had something “done.”

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BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

Clarity When You Need It: A Smarter Approach to Ultrasound At Cardiff Ultrasound Clinic, the focus is not just on performing scans, but on helping patients understand what’s going on.

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he clinic brings together Consultant Radiologists and highly experienced sonographers, offering specialist ultrasound for a wide range of concerns, from abdominal and pelvic symptoms to musculoskeletal injuries and pregnancy care.

The clinic accepts both self-referrals and referrals from healthcare professionals, and works closely with GPs, physiotherapists and other specialists where ongoing treatment or further investigation is needed.

Based in Pontcanna, the clinic has been designed to offer a calm, modern alternative to the traditional hospital environment.

Many patients arrive unsure whether their symptoms are significant; persistent pain, a new lump, or something that simply hasn’t settled.

“ We see a lot of patients who simply want clarity,” says Dr Peter Burrows. “Sometimes that’s reassurance, but often it’s about identifying the cause of symptoms and helping guide the next steps.”

Ultrasound is often one of the most effective first-line investigations for symptoms such as abdominal pain, pelvic pain, testicular symptoms, new lumps and muscle or joint 44 Style of the city

For many patients, it’s not just about having a scan, it’s about leaving with answers, reassurance, and a clearer understanding of their health.

injuries. Patients are seen within days, with findings explained clearly during the appointment and a detailed medical report provided within 24 hours to support ongoing diagnosis and treatment if needed.

Appointments are designed to feel calm and unhurried, with time to explain findings clearly and answer questions during the scan itself, rather than leaving patients waiting days or weeks without context.

Cardiff Ultrasound Clinic Pontcanna, Cardiff 02922 520 142 cardiffultrasoundclinic.co.uk Instagram: @ cardiffultrasoundclinic

BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

Ask the Expert: When Should You Get an Ultrasound?

We spoke to Dr Peter Burrows, Consultant Radiologist and Clinical Director at Cardiff Ultrasound Clinic, about when it’s worth getting symptoms checked.

Q: Why would someone choose to have an ultrasound?

Ultrasound isn’t just for pregnancy, although that’s a big part of what we do. It’s also very useful for investigating a range of concerns, including abdominal and pelvic pain, irregular periods, post-menopausal bleeding, testicular pain, muscle and joint pains, and new lumps.

It doesn’t involve any radiation, it’s quick, and it allows us to diagnose problems whilst we scan. We can explain what we’re seeing during the scan, so patients aren’t left waiting and wondering.

Q: People often aren’t sure if their symptoms are worth investigating, what’s your advice?

In many cases, it provides a clear starting point for understanding symptoms and deciding what to do next.

Q: If someone finds a lump, when should they get it checked?

Not every lump needs a scan.

However, if it’s new, increasing in size, painful, or hasn’t settled over a few weeks, it’s worth having it assessed. Ultrasound can usually distinguish between common benign findings and those that may need further investigation.

Q: What makes a private ultrasound different?

The difference is speed and clarity.

Our patients are seen within days, rather than waiting weeks or months.

During the scan, we take time to explain findings clearly so you leave with a full understanding of the results.

As specialists, we guide you on the most appropriate next steps and provide a detailed medical report, which you can share with your GP or specialist to support and speed up your diagnosis and treatment.

If something is persistent, getting worse, or not settling as you would expect, it’s sensible to have it assessed.

Many patients worry they’re overreacting, but more often the opposite is true, people tend to wait longer than they should. The aim isn’t to scan everyone, but to use ultrasound where it can help identify a cause for symptoms or confirm that there’s no serious underlying problem.

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BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

The Rise of Dr Kathryn Aesthetics & Skincare Dr Kathryn Aesthetics & Skincare – one of Wales’s most respected doctor-led clinics – enters a new era with a state-of-the-art Cardiff home and a technologically advanced treatment portfolio, including Endolift, the revolutionary non-surgical facelift.

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BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

An exciting new chapter The multi-award-winning Dr Kathryn Aesthetics & Skincare has entered an exciting new chapter, unveiling a brand-new, purpose-built clinic in the Lakeside area of Cardiff, marking a significant milestone driven by exceptional demand.

What began as a discreet home-based practice eight years ago, has evolved into a highly advanced clinic attracting patients from across the UK. The new space reflects that journey. After a year of securing and preparing the site, followed by over four months of immaculate renovations, the result is a refined, state-of-the-art environment designed to meet the highest clinical standards.

With three fully equipped treatment rooms, a welcoming reception space, and a calming, modern environment – plus convenient parking outside – the new clinic reflects the quality and care that have become synonymous with Dr Kathryn’s name.

Elevating aesthetics in Cardiff This expansion is about more than just a new location, it represents a significant step forward in what the clinic can offer.

Now supported by a growing team of specialists, Dr Kathryn delivers a broader and more advanced range of treatments than ever before. Alongside her renowned injectable work, the clinic also offers medical-grade laser rejuvenation, microneedling, chemical peels, women’s-health focused treatments, and medically supervised GPL1 weight management programmes, as well as so much more.

At the heart of this evolution is a commitment to combining innovation with clinical integrity – ensuring every treatment is evidence-based, safe, and results-driven.

Introducing Endolift One of the most exciting additions to the clinic is Endolift – a revolutionary laser treatment that is redefining non-surgical skin tightening and contouring. Dr Kathryn Aesthetics & Skincare is currently one of only two clinics in Wales offering Endolift, positioning it firmly at the forefront of modern aesthetic medicine.

Designed to target skin laxity and melt fat, the treatment works by delivering precise laser energy beneath the skin using an ultra-fine microfibre. This stimulates collagen production while refining and tightening the skin from within, resulting in a firmer, more sculpted appearance.

The treatment is highly customisable, allowing Dr Kathryn to adjust the intensity depending on the area and desired outcome – whether that’s gentle tightening of the neck, defined sculpting of the jawline, or permanently eliminating stubborn fat pockets in the face.

Meet Dr Kathryn For Dr Kathryn, introducing new treatments is never about following trends, it’s about selecting technologies that align with her core philosophy: enhance, never alter.

With over 25 years of medical experience and an ongoing role as an NHS consultant anaesthetist at The Royal Glamorgan and Prince Charles Hospitals, she brings a level of clinical expertise that ensures every treatment is delivered with precision, care, and patient safety at its core.

She’s not only a skilled, highly experienced doctor, she is also a mother in her 40s who wants to look good – very much like many of her clients. She is authentic and honest, having had many of the treatments she offers, and is always ready to share her own experience. Dr Kathryn firmly believes that nobody should feel guilty for wanting to look their best.

“Any treatment we introduce has to meet the highest standards – both in terms of safety and the quality of results,” she explains. “It’s about helping patients feel like the best version of themselves.

“ Each client is special and gets a personalised service, and they will never feel rushed. Our clients’ loyalty speaks volumes about their experience of our clinic and the treatments we offer.”

Setting a New Standard The opening of this new clinic marks a defining moment — not only for the business, but for the evolving aesthetic landscape in Cardiff.

By combining medical expertise, advanced technology, and a deeply personalised approach, Dr Kathryn Aesthetics & Skincare continues to raise expectations of what a modern aesthetic clinic can be.

It is, at its core, a place where innovation meets trust, and where patients can feel confident that they are in safe, experienced hands.

Contact & Further Information Dr Kathryn Aesthetics & Skincare 81 Brandreth Road, Cardiff, CF23 5NW

www.drkathrynaesthetics.co.uk 07368622099 @drkathrynaesthetics drkltaesthetics@gmail.com Style of the city 47

BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

Why Midlife Might Be the Best Chapter Yet Somewhere along the way we were missold a story about midlife, a bit like the PPI scandal of the nineties and noughties. Head into any card shop and read the ones for forty and fifty year olds, they’ll tell us in bold letters that we’re ‘over the hill’ and ‘it’s all downhill from here’.

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t’s implied we’re slowing down, not because we choose to but because we’re getting older and our bodies start failing. The narrative says that opportunities shrink, energy fades, and the best chapters have already been written.

Society has an unspoken assumption that by the time you reach your forties and fifties, life becomes more about maintenance than momentum.

Which feels wildly out of step with reality. We’re living longer, working longer and, if anything, squeezing more life into our years than ever before. There’s a whole wave of over-30s filling dance floors at daytime discos, swapping early nights for

48 Style of the city

playlists and prosecco. We’re not quietly fading into the background, we’re turning the music up.

I say we midlifers start a revolution and reclaim being ‘over the hill’. This is no longer the insult it was once intended to be.

I see it as meaning we’ve done the hard climb, the view is now clearer and the journey ahead is easier. We’ve weathered a few storms, navigated a difficult path and now’s the time to switch gears and do whatever our hearts desire.

This stage of life isn’t about fading out, it’s about growing in ways that actually matter.

Connecting more deeply,

savouring things you were once too busy to appreciate.

When life threw a curveball and I had to start all over again at 45, I thought that my best days were behind me. They weren’t, it was the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

Not the kind you get in your teens and twenties, full of firsts and obvious milestones. But a quieter, deeper beginning full of possibilities. One where the change happens internally first.

Where you start to ask different questions, much less ‘what can I do for you?’ and a lot more ‘what can I do for myself?’

BEAUTY & WELLNESS PROPERTY GUIDE Society has an unspoken assumption that by the time you reach your forties and fifties, life becomes more about maintenance than momentum.

I’m now bottomless brunching, daytime dancing and wearing my ‘going out’ shoes to the garden centre, because frankly, why not?

And if you see me in sequins in the supermarket… now you know why.

Embrace midlife and you’ll realise this might just be the chapter where you feel the most like yourself.

Unapologetic, unfiltered and finally, completely free.

Written by Emma Meese, Founder of Paper Aeroplane Studio paperaeroplanestudio. co.uk/ |creator@ paperaeroplanestudio.co.uk

For the first time in my life, I began making decisions based on me.

When I turned 50 I didn’t lose anything apart from the peoplepleasing, the need for approval and the quiet voice that said “it’s too late.”

Because it isn’t too late.

If anything, this stage of life comes with a kind of freedom that’s hard to access when you’re younger. There’s a clarity that comes from experience, a resilience that only life can teach you.

And then, of course, there’s the small matter of perimenopause.

No one really prepares you for that chapter. One minute you’re too hot then too cold, the next you’re wide awake at 3am questioning every life decision you’ve ever made. But alongside the brain fog, the disrupted sleep and the emotional rollercoaster something unexpected happens.

You stop caring quite so much about what everyone else thinks.

Somewhere between the hormonal chaos and the life experience, you quietly enter what I can only describe as your “give no f***s” era. And honestly? It’s liberating. I can’t wait for Taylor Swift to start singing about this era!

You wear what you want, say no without a hint of explanation and stop shrinking yourself to make other people comfortable.

It’s not a brand new you, it’s you without a filter.

Reinvention doesn’t have an age limit and joy doesn’t have a deadline. And living fully isn’t something we grow out of, it’s something we grow into.

Midlife, for me, has become less about proving anything to anyone else, and more about showing up for myself. Choosing experiences and making memories over material things.

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BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

Môr A Sawna: The Ultimate Coastline Companion M

ôr A Sawna is where the coastline becomes a companion, the elements become teachers, and the body remembers what it feels like to truly exhale. Nestled on the Barry shoreline, this sanctuary by the sea offers a rare blend of wildness and warmth — a place where community, ceremony, and deep rest meet the rhythm of the tides.

Our space is designed for both communal connection and private retreat. In our communal sessions, the doors open wide to welcome individuals, friends, and families into a shared experience of heat, breath, and sea air. These gatherings are gentle and inclusive, offering a sense of belonging that feels both grounding and uplifting.

Conversations drift easily, silence is honoured, and the simple act of being together becomes its own kind of medicine.

For those seeking something more intimate, our exclusive hires offer the sanctuary entirely to yourself.

Whether you're celebrating a milestone, hosting a team reset, or crafting your own ritual by the water, you'll have full access to the sauna, cold immersion, shoreline seating, and the sweeping coastal views that make Môr A Sawna feel like a world apart. Each private session is shaped with care, allowing you to set the tone — from quiet reflection to joyful gathering.

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Alongside our sauna experiences, we offer a growing wellness programme designed to nourish body, mind, and spirit. Guests can immerse themselves in sound baths, Sacred Sauna Rituals, full moon ceremonies, silent discos under the stars, and our signature Hot Leafy Massage — a grounding, sensory treatment inspired by ancient traditions. Each offering is crafted to help you slow down, reconnect, and feel held by the elements.

What makes Môr A Sawna truly special is its devotion to presence.

The crackle of the stove, the salt on your skin, the shifting colours of the sky — every visit becomes a moment of remembering. People leave with steadier breath, softer shoulders, and a renewed sense of themselves.

Whether you come alone, with loved ones, or with your whole circle, Môr A Sawna is an invitation to return to what matters: warmth, connection, and the quiet magic of the sea.

Our space is designed for both communal connection and private retreat

BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

Môr-A-Sawna: Beyond the Sauna Môr-A-Sawna has been a staple in wellness for the Barry and South Wales community since it opened its wood-fired doors in 2024

As someone who indulges in a spa day once in a while, I was really looking forward to trying a different, more earthy form of massage which Môr-A-Sawna specialises in. Using dried oak leaves, warmed in the heat of the sauna, brushed rhythmically over the back of the body, whilst being warmed in the sauna, was an incredibly relaxing and almost meditative experience.

As you progress through the treatment, the light brush of the leaves is replaced by warm hands, adding pressure to the shoulders, lower back, thighs, calves and feet, allowing you to centre and ground yourself in a safe environment.

Review by Cat Morgan

S

tyle of the City visited Jackson’s Bay based Môr-A-Sawna, to try out their new treatment offerings, that go hand-in-hand with the incredible benefits of cold water dipping in the ocean, and heating up in Môr-A-Sawna’s wood-fired sauna.

As the treatment comes to an end, there is a slow transition from lying down to sitting up, and just breathing in the sauna. And when ready, you are invited to use the fresh water showers, or the ocean, to wash off the aromatherapy oils, and then re-nourish your skin with homemade products with honey and sea salt.

Môr-A-Sawna has been a staple in wellness for the Barry and South Wales community since it opened its wood-fired doors in 2024, and with this new expansion into personal treatments and offerings, they will continue to provide a calm, safe, and relaxing experience, with the beautiful backdrop of Jackson’s Bay.

morasawna@gmail.com môrasawna.com @mor_a_sawna

As soon as I arrived, Kath, Founder and Sauna Master, greeted me with a brief overview of how the treatment will go ahead, allowing me to ask questions, including what ingredients she uses to create ownbrand skin and hair care products.

The start of the treatment begins by getting acclimatised to the heat of the sauna, and getting comfortable looking out over the beautiful Jackson’s Bay. Shortly after, Kath enters the space, directing me to lie face down, and sets a calming tone for the treatment with soft music, and quiet instructions.

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BEAUTY & WELLNESS GUIDE

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his season, sculpt, lift, and redefine your silhouette with Cutera TruBody Flex, offering targeted bum lift or abdominal sculpting treatments—available exclusively at Elevate Medical & Aesthetic Clinic, a luxury, HIWregulated clinic setting a new benchmark for advanced body contouring in Wales.

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How it works Each session is tailored to your goals—focusing on either a sculpted bum or a flatter, more defined abdomen per treatment session.

Alternating contraction patterns help build muscle while sculpting shape, preventing plateauing.

Treatments are delivered within a fully regulated clinic environment at Elevate, ensuring the highest standards of safety and care.

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LIMITED-TIME STYLE OF THE CITY OFFER For a limited time, the first 20 new bookings only can enjoy 50% OFF any TruBody Flex standalone session or package.

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After

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WEDDING GUIDE

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REAL WEDDING

Abbie & Cameron How did you first meet?

We met in 2020 during lockdown. We’d always known each other through mutual friends from school, but never properly spoke until then. Cam reached out first on Tinder and it didn’t take long before we moved over to Instagram and started talking every day.

How did you propose?

Our very first date was a walk at Llyn y Fan, so it felt really special that Cam chose the exact same spot to propose on 28th December 2024. I’d always said I didn’t want anything too public but it ended up being such a busy day, which made him even more nervous! I’d actually been quite unwell with Covid, but he convinced me to get out for some fresh air once i had recovered. I had a little feeling it might happen, so I made the effort and when we got there, he got down on one knee. It couldn’t have been more us!

Where did you get married?

Sant Ffraed House

What attracted you to the venue?

I work in the wedding hair and makeup industry, so I’d followed

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Sant Ffraed for years on socials.

I’d only ever been to the Coach House before, but I always said it would be my dream venue I just never thought it would actually be me getting married there. We came to a showcase in January and both completely fell in love instantly. It’s timeless, modern

REAL WEDDING sleeves. For the evening, I took the sleeves off and switched to pearl straps. I kept everything else quite minimal, just some floral earrings to tie it all together. I really wanted the dress to do the talking.

What advice do you have for others?

Honestly, just enjoy every moment of it. The team at Sant Ffraed made the whole process feel so easy from the showcase

It’s timeless, modern and just has that feeling when you walk in

Credit Imagine Photographey

and just has that feeling when you walk in. The team made such a difference too, so warm and helpful. We did look at other venues to compare, but nothing even came close.

What was your first dance song?

Heatwaves by Glass Animals.

During lockdown we used to go off-roading a lot and had it on repeat, so it just felt right. It holds a lot of memories for us.

What made your wedding unique?

We actually decided not to have flowers as we felt the venue already had everything we needed. Instead, we focused on the atmosphere and entertainment. We had Nerys Clark, Bongo Ben, a sax player and a DJ, it was all about making sure everyone had the best time and the energy stayed high all day and night.

What did you wear?

I wore a Martina Liana dress from Laura May Bridal in Cardiff but added a few personal touches to make it my own. I loved a bow detail on another dress that I tried, so I had that added along with custom lace

with the welcome drinks to the food tasting evening, which was amazing. Every time we visited, it felt like a little date, something to look forward to. We never felt stressed, just excited.

Any final words about your venue?

Just a huge thank you to everyone for making our day better than we ever could have imagined. Everything ran so smoothly and nothing was ever too much trouble. One moment that really stuck with us was when the team went out of their way to get milk for our little one on a cold November evening, it’s those small touches that mean everything. We honestly couldn’t have chosen a better place.

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PROPERTY WEDDING GUIDE

Plas Y Rhosyn A Rustic Romance in the Heart of the Welsh Countryside.

" What really made the experience, was the staff.

They were incredibly helpful through every stage of the planning and worked so hard on the day itself to make sure everything ran smoothly"

N

estled within over 95 acres of rolling hills, ancient woodland, and lush green countryside, Plas Y Rhosyn is a place where love stories unfold naturally. A tranquil lake, alive with Welsh wildlife, reflects the beauty of the surrounding landscape— creating a dreamy, pictureperfect backdrop for your most treasured moments.

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Golden sunsets, winding paths, and sweeping views offer endless opportunities for breathtaking photography, capturing the essence of your day in the most romantic way.

course—blending the comfort of indoors with the wild beauty beyond. Wherever you choose, you’ll feel immersed in the landscape, as if the countryside itself is part of your celebration.

Exchange your vows beneath open skies with an outdoor ceremony, surrounded by nature’s quiet beauty. Or step inside the charming function suite, where panoramic 180-degree views stretch across the 9-hole Celtic Minor golf

Perfectly placed just a short drive from Swansea and only 34 miles from Cardiff, Plas Y Rhosyn feels wonderfully secluded yet effortlessly accessible. With ample parking and easy access for guests arriving by coach or camper, everyone can share in your special day with ease.

WEDDING GUIDE Dining is a heartfelt experience, thoughtfully crafted by experienced caterers who take pride in every detail. From elegant three-course wedding breakfasts to delicate canapés and generous evening feasts, each dish is designed to delight.

Bespoke wedding packages allow you to shape every moment, ensuring your day is as unique and personal as your love story.

As the day fades into evening, your guests can retreat to a collection of charming accommodations. Three beautifully restored stone cottages, six cosy stable double rooms, a snug open plan ‘cwtch’ suite, and two enchanting glamping pods offer the perfect blend of rustic character and comfort inviting you to linger a little longer in this peaceful setting.

From your first visit to your final farewell, you’ll be warmly welcomed and gently guided by a dedicated team who care deeply about every detail, so you can simply soak in the joy of each moment.

“Plas y Rhosyn is an absolutely stunning venue. Both the inside and the grounds are beautiful, providing the perfect backdrop for our wedding. What really made the experience, was the staff. They were incredibly helpful through every stage of the planning and worked so hard on the day itself to make sure everything ran smoothly. Annika was wonderful, nothing was too much and she always supported with a calm, helpful manner.

The food was another massive hit everything was delicious and our guests haven't stopped talking about it! Between the quality of the service and the natural beauty of the venue, the atmosphere was nothing short of magical, making the entire day feel seamless and stressfree.

We cannot recommend Plas y Rhosyn highly enough to any couple searching for a venue that offers both style and substance. The team played such a huge part in making our wedding feel personal and made the day more special than we ever thought possible”.

plasyrhosyn.com @Plasyrhosyn PlasYRhosyn Style of the city 57

WEDDING GUIDE

Silures – A Coastal Setting for Saying I Do Set in the heart of Penarth with breathtaking views across the sea, Silures at Holm House offers a truly unique and elegant setting for your special day.

Inspired by both European and British influences, Silures brings together the warmth of coastal dining with the refinement of modern hospitality.

O

ur menus combine the freshness and seasonality of European cuisine with the comfort and quality of British classics. Using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, we will offer menus tailored to your celebration — whether you prefer a seated dining experience or a more relaxed style with nibbles, canapés or a buffet, we will cater to your needs.

At Silures, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service in a relaxed and friendly manner. Our dedicated team strives to create a warm, attentive atmosphere where you and your guests can feel completely at ease and enjoy every moment of your day.

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The venue itself is designed to impress and provides a beautiful and versatile space. Inside, calming décor and an elegant dining area, creates a sophisticated yet inviting setting.

Outside, our stunning garden terrace offers a unique coastal backdrop, overlooking the sea — perfect for drinks receptions and unforgettable photographs on those warm summer evenings.

For more intimate gatherings, our private dining room accommodates up to 20 guests seated or 35 standing. The full venue can host up to 90 guests seated with a top table, or 150 standing, with an additional 80 guests able to enjoy the garden space.

For more information, enquiries and bookings, please visit:

silurespenarth-amh.com/

Silures at Holm House info@silurespenarth-amh.com 02922970251 Let Silures at Holm House bring your wedding vision to life.

COOKING & TRAVEL

COOKING & TRAVEL

LA VIDA TRAVEL - Voted No.1 Travel Agency for UK and Ireland Where the journey is as exquisite as the destination Step into a world of La Vida Travel, the UK & Ireland’s premier luxury travel specialists, every itinerary is a bespoke creation, crafted with precision, passion, and unparalleled global insight.

From the moment you enter our elegant boutique travel lounge in

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Newport, you are invited to unwind, indulge, and dream. Our awardwinning team, seasoned explorers of the world’s most captivating destinations curate experiences far beyond the ordinary. Think private dining in hidden coastal enclaves, sunrise safaris across untamed landscapes, and once in a lifetime celebrations set against breathtaking backdrops.

Whether you seek a sun-drenched escape, an opulent world cruise, or a destination wedding defined by effortless elegance, no request is too ambitious, no detail too small. With full ABTA & ATOL protection, your journey is not only extraordinary but assured.

ON SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA 2026, 2027 & 2028 A safari adventure that will stay in your heart forever! Wild, unforgettable, and truly once in a lifetime!

Savour South Africa’s magnificent wildlife on this once in a lifetime, fullboard safari holiday, based in the locally rated 4* Elephant Lodge, with its own sweeping private game reserve!

On this unique small-group tour, you’ll get the chance to really settle into your breathtaking surroundings as you spend a week at South Africa’s distinguished Sebatana Elephant Lodge.

• Flights from Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic - Direct flights • 10 Days

• 21 Meals & 7 Included Excursions • 4* Elephant Lodge

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• The opportunity to spot the fabled Big Five

• Four game drives in the Sebatana Private Reserve • One game drive in the Welgevonden Reserve • Fascinating guided bush walk

• Traditional African champagne brunch • Sundowner at Sunset Rock • Wildlife talk

• Wine-tasting and welcome drink

• Johannesburg and Soweto tour, including a visit to the Apartheid Museum • Optional game drives at Welgevonden Reserve and Pilanesberg National Park • Optional night safari and tribal evening cultural experience • 60 Style of the city

All-inclusive upgrade available £245pp

COOKING & TRAVEL CELEBRITY XCEL CRUISE

IKOS & SANI RESORTS

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Book with La Vida Travel and enjoy a complimentary bottle of champagne as you step into a world of serene beaches, curated experiences, and effortless indulgence.

• Stunning 7 Night Italy & French Riviera Cruise • Sailing on the BRAND NEW Celebrity XCEL • Balcony stateroom from just £1199pp • Departing Gatwick 27th June 2026

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• Florence & Pisa (La Spezia) Italy • Rome (Civitavecchia) • Naples, Italy • At sea

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• Transfers & Luggage

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OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK LA VIDA TRAVEL — YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE, IMPECCABLY DESIGNED.

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COOKING & TRAVEL

STYLE OF THE CITY IN CALIFORNIA The Ultimate Family Journey Through Sunshine, Style, Thrills & Desert Glamour California has always understood aspiration.

For generations it has sold the world a vision of life lived a little larger and a little brighter: palm-lined boulevards beneath endless blue skies, golden beaches, ocean drives, glamorous cities, championship golf, world-famous attractions and the kind of lifestyle that seems permanently tuned to possibility.

It is the place people picture when they want more from a holiday.

More excitement.

More warmth.

More freedom.

More memories.

Yet for James Taylor and the Taylor family, a five-week journey across Southern California revealed something even more persuasive than the image California projects so confidently.

The reality can be better than the dream.

C alif ornia From Ventura County and San Diego to Los Angeles, Laguna Beach and the desert elegance of Palm Springs and La Quinta, each chapter of the journey delivered a different side of the Golden State.

Some places thrilled instantly.

Others relaxed the pace. Some surprised completely. A select few became unforgettable highlights.

Together, they formed one of the most rewarding family adventures imaginable.

For British travellers considering a long-haul trip, that matters.

Time away is precious. School holidays are limited. Flights are significant. Expectations rise accordingly.

California does something very few destinations can.

It justifies the effort.

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COOKING & TRAVEL LOS ANGELES – WHERE FUN IS DONE PROPERLY Some cities entertain.

Los Angeles performs.

There is scale to everything here — the roads, the skyline, the energy, the confidence. It is a city where giant experiences feel part of the natural landscape.

At Six Flags Magic Mountain, the family experienced one of the most exhilarating days of the entire trip. Internationally recognised by thrill seekers, the park more than justified its reputation.

For the children, disbelief quickly turned into delight as each new ride somehow seemed to top the last.

Elsewhere, Knott's Berry Farm offered a different but equally enjoyable rhythm.

Charming, family-friendly and wonderfully balanced, Knott’s combined excellent rides with warmth and personality. Silver Bullet, Supreme Scream and HangTime all proved major

For the Taylor family, Los Angeles became the week where excitement took centre stage.

L o s An g L .A

ele s

highlights, while pairing the day with Knott's Soak City— cooling off under the California sun before returning for evening rides — became one of the smartest combinations of the trip.

What California understands so well is that family fun should not feel like hard work. It should feel joyful.

Los Ang eles

Los Angeles delivered exactly that.

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COOKING & TRAVEL VENTURA COUNTY – THE JOY OF FINDING SOMETHING REAL

And in Ventura itself, the family found one of the great dining highlights of the journey at Paradise Pantry.

Travel is often at its best when it surprises.

Some restaurants impress technically. Others emotionally.

Paradise Pantry managed both.

The places that linger longest are not always the most famous names on the map, but the discoveries that feel personal.

Ventura County offered precisely that.

Relaxed, coastal and refreshingly unhurried, the region provided a welcome shift in tempo. Compared to the scale and spectacle of Los Angeles, Ventura felt grounded and authentic — California with its shoulders dropped.

Part artisan market, part neighbourhood gem, part destination restaurant, it captured everything modern Californian dining should be: produce-led, stylish, warm and deeply authentic.

Owners Kelly Briglio and Tina Thayer have created something that feels personal rather than manufactured. There is genuine pride in the room and a clear love of hospitality. Most of all, Paradise Pantry felt real.

In an era of concepts, that is a powerful thing.

For travellers exploring California’s coast, Ventura County proved that some of the best memories come when you venture slightly off the obvious route.

PALM SPRINGS, DESERT GLAMOUR & THE PERFECT FINAL CHAPTER Every great journey deserves a memorable final act.

Palm Springs and La Quinta provided exactly that.

After coastlines and cities, the desert felt like stepping into another California entirely.

Mountain backdrops, warm evenings, iconic architecture and a slower luxury created a fittingly stylish conclusion.

Dining matched the mood beautifully.

At Eight4Nine, bold interiors and elegant cooking created one of the most polished evenings of the trip. It was Palm Springs glamour done properly — stylish but still warm, sophisticated without feeling stiff.

At Ponzu Sushi, the family enjoyed what they described as the finest sushi of the entire journey. Fresh, vibrant and full of personality, it became one of the great surprise hits of the holiday.

Then came one of the defining experiences of all five weeks.

PGA WEST. For James Taylor and his son, a full round on the famed Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course became far more than a game of golf. It became one of those rare father-and-son travel memories that gather meaning instantly.

Ve n t u ra C ou n t ry

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Immaculate fairways, elite course design and dramatic desert scenery combined to create the type of round golfers remember for years.

Yet PGA WEST goes beyond the course itself.

COOKING & TRAVEL

Ho l l y w o o d

Inside the Performance Lab, world-class instruction and cutting-edge technology offered a glimpse into how the modern game is refined at the highest level. Insightful, immersive and genuinely enjoyable, it showcased PGA WEST as far more than a place to play.

It is a place to experience golf fully.

As the day closed with dinner at Ernie's, overlooking the landscape in warm evening light, the moment felt symbolic.

California had saved one of its best chapters for last.

WHY CALIFORNIA STILL SETS THE STANDARD Some destinations are famous for beaches.

Others for cities, golf, food or family attractions.

California offers all of it.

Pal m Sp ring s

ring s

They want children entertained and adults inspired. They want comfort without boredom.

Adventure without chaos.

Luxury without stiffness.

Memories that genuinely justify the planning.

It offers roller coasters and ocean sunsets. Stylish restaurants and hidden gems.

Desert fairways and family laughter. Big-city energy and small-town warmth. Glamour and authenticity. Excitement and ease.

California understands all of those needs instinctively.

That combination is exceptionally rare.

A thrill trip.

A food journey.

A beach escape.

A lifestyle reset.

A golfing memory.

A family adventure.

For modern travellers, California also solves a growing holiday dilemma.

Pa l m S p

People no longer want one-dimensional trips.

For the Taylor family, this was not one holiday.

It was many exceptional experiences woven into one extraordinary journey.

And for readers wondering whether California still deserves its legendary reputation after all these years, the answer after five unforgettable weeks is simple: Absolutely.

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COOKING & TRAVEL

At Home with

Angela Gray This time of year always prompts a spring clean to freshen up my home. It's also time for a wardrobe edit, bringing some lighter summer clothing into the mix.

My kitchen gets a deep clean where cupboards are organised, and ingredients checked.

B

ringing a little of the outside into my home is something I do throughout the year. At the moment potted herbs add a lovely fresh touch to the sills, and bunches of Camellias and daffodils brighten up the dining room. It's a great feeling to get sorted, and stage our rooms ready to host the next flurry of cookery courses and culinary events here.

This time of year brings us such beautiful, fresh seasonal ingredients, and I will be using many of them to inspire a series of new recipes. I love to make the most of the short British asparagus season, so delicious served simply with a drizzle of hot butter. If you are out and about, you may come across wild garlic, just a handful of leaves will make a delicious pesto, or a tasty stuffing for Lamb. Also, beautiful pink forced rhubarb is perfect for

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a fabulous Sunday crumble, with lashings of custard! I also use it to make a syrup base with orange, ideal for cocktails with gin or vodka, topped with Prosecco or Champagne.

Salads are far more exciting now with seasonal peppery watercress, pert baby spinach, spring onions and crunchy radishes, all in their prime.

These ingredients, mixed with crumbled feta and pomegranate seeds make a quick and nutritious lunch.

Not far behind all of these goodies will be the lovely early summer tomatoes, courgettes, peppers and aubergines, all of which come together beautifully in a ratatouille. I have included a great recipe for this below, plus a couple of other ideas for making the most of the season.

Happy cooking all!

" If you are out and about, you may come across wild garlic, just a handful of leaves will make a delicious pesto, or a tasty stuffing for Lamb"

COOKING & TRAVEL Ratatouille — serves 4–6 3 tbsp olive oil 3 medium onions, peeled and sliced thinly 2 cloves garlic, grated Salt and pepper to season ½ tsp each of dried oregano, thyme and rosemary ½ tsp sugar 300ml passata 2 medium courgettes, sliced super thinly 1 large aubergine, cut in half lengthways and thinly sliced 6 medium tomatoes, halved and sliced 2 tbsp olive oil with 25g butter 1 large garlic clove, smashed

What you do Take a large baking dish and line with baking parchment.

In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil, add the onions and stir through, cover with a lid, plate or a sheet of foil and cook over a low-medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring from time to time. Once the onions are softened, increase the temperature a little to cook off any excess moisture from the onions. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then sprinkle liberally with salt and pepper, stir through. Add the dried herbs and sugar, mix well and cook for 1 minute, then pour in the passata. Cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes.

To assemble the ratatouille, tip the tomato and onion sauce over the base of the dish and spread out. Arrange the slices of aubergine, courgette and tomato in a repetitive pattern as in the picture here.

Heat the oil and butter in a pan, add the garlic and cook gently for 5 minutes so the flavour infuses. Brush half of the mixture over the surface of the vegetables. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 170c Fan/gas 5 for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, insert a knife into the centre, the vegetables should be soft. Brush the surface with the remaining oil, turn the heat up to 190c/gas 6 and open bake/roast for a further 25 minutes until beautifully rich and golden on top. If you wish, you can finish it with some lovely fragrant basil leaves. Beautiful served with fish, lamb and chicken, or on its own with crumbled feta, or burrata. I also love it on top of toasted ciabatta.

“At Home with Angela Gray”

athomewithangelagray.com Instagram: angelagraycook Email: angela@angelagray.co.uk

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COOKING & TRAVEL Rhubarb Orange and Ginger Syrup 500g new season pink rhubarb 2 large oranges 2 large lemons 600ml water To serve: Chilled Prosecco, or sparkling water, or sparkling tea Sprig mint, ½ slices of orange and lemon — frozen

Wild Garlic Pesto Fettuccine

What you do

50g wild garlic, washed

Wash and cut the rhubarb into equal pieces, tip into a large saucepan. Using a veg peeler, peel away the zest of the oranges and lemons, add to the pan. Juice the oranges and lemons into the pan. Tip in the sugar, add the water and bring it all to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and leave to steep for 1 hour.

2 fat cloves garlic, crushed 75g pine nuts, or pistachio 75g Parmesan, grated 150ml olive oil ¼ tsp sugar

Use a fine sieve, or muslin cloth in a strainer and ladle the rhubarb mixture in, leave it to strain through. You may have to do this in a couple of additions.

1 tsp lemon juice

Once strained and cooled, pour into sterilised jars or bottles and keep in the fridge for up to 1 month.

Chop the wild garlic and place in a small food processor with the crushed garlic and a good pinch of sea salt. Blitz to a rough paste, then add the pine nuts and parmesan and pulse again. Continue blending while you slowly add almost all the oil. Taste, season with salt, pepper, sugar and lemon juice.

Use 50ml as a base for Prosecco, soda water or sparkling tea. You can also use it as a mixer in cocktails, or as a sauce over ice-cream, and to soak into a sponge. Keep the cooked rhubarb for making a crumble.

400g fettuccine or linguine

What you do

Transfer the pesto to a clean jar, top with the remaining oil and cover (this can be made in advance and will keep in the fridge for up to a week).

athomewithangelagray.com angelagraycook angela@angelagray.co.uk

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Cook the linguine in salted water following the packet instructions. Drain, reserving a little of the cooking water. Mix as much pesto as you like into the pasta and add a splash or two of the water until you get a creamy consistency. Serve with a little grated parmesan over the top.

It’s Showtime! –

Royal Welsh Show 2026

The pinnacle event in the British agricultural calendar, the Royal Welsh Show returns to the showground in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells from Monday 20th to Thursday 23rd July 2026. ach year, thousands of visitors flock to the heart of MidWales to celebrate the very best of Welsh and British agriculture.

This action-packed four-day event offers an exciting showcase of top-class livestock, forestry, crafts, countryside sports, shopping, and outstanding food and drink, alongside a 12-hour programme of non-stop entertainment and displays.

E

all competing for the honour of a coveted Royal Welsh rosette.

As always, the Show will host a packed schedule of livestock classes and prestigious competitions, attracting leading exhibitors from across the UK and beyond,

Visitors can also look forward to an exciting mix of entertainment, from the adrenaline-fuelled Paul Hannam Quad Bike Stunt Show to the much-loved Meirion Owen

The 2026 Main Ring programme promises to be a highlight, headlined by the world-renowned King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and their fantastic Musical Drive. Returning for the first time since 2022, this rare and spectacular display of precision horsemanship is a firm favourite with audiences.

and his entertaining Quack Pack.

Aerial thrills will be delivered by the RAF Falcons Parachute Team, while the Regimental Band of the Royal Welsh will provide a rousing musical backdrop. Traditional and countryside favourites, including the Inter Hunt Team Relay, Parade of Hounds and Mounted Games, will once again add to the atmosphere, alongside impressive demonstrations from Tristar Carriage Driving, Hawkeye Falconry UK and the British Army Drone Sports Association.

Families can explore the Sports Village, packed with children’s activities and interactive fun, including the popular Tractor Ted and daredevils will enjoy Zip World's Big Red mobile zip line!

New for 2026, the Welsh Sheep Village will celebrate the importance of the Welsh sheep industry.

Following its successful debut, the Heavy Horse Village also returns, while the Food Hall and Welsh Food Village, Gwledd | Feast, will showcase the very best of Welsh produce.

For more information or to purchase early bird tickets, visit: www.rwas.wales or www.cafc.cymru.

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COOKING & TRAVEL

Historic Hotel named best in Wales just six months after re-opening

Settled in the heart of Tintern and just six months after re-opening, local pub The Royal George, has been awarded The Times and The Sunday Times Best Places to Stay 2026 winner for Wales.

Revealed in its definitive list of the 50 Best Places to Stay from across the UK

by The Times and The Sunday Times, the guide says a “revamp of the rooms and an impressive new restaurant by Welsh Designers The Mint List, are set to put it on the tourist map.”

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COOKING & TRAVEL

You can expect the now legendary Royal George hospitality, a welcoming atmosphere and a journey through a wine region without leaving the banks of the Wye

The judges praised its 20 snug rooms and restaurant, which are “decked out in earthy greens and oranges in a nod to the Wye Valley’s forests. The new Upper Deck restaurant is well worth planning a stay around.”

The guide focuses on the things that really matter; hotels with the essentials of comfort, great service and value, as well as personality and warmth and which The Royal George embodies in all its aspects. As one of the oldest pubs in Wales, it has a storied past, with local legend saying the building even contains timber salvaged from the 18th-century shipwreck HMS Royal George. Camilla Kelly, Lead Designer and Founder of The Mint List says, ‘It’s fantastic that the judges noted the care

and attention that we took to recognise the rich landscape that surrounds Tintern and how it translated into the design scheme.”

To see what has taken The Royal George to such heights, the intrepid explorers we are, we followed in the footsteps of the reviewers for a visit and to try its outstanding food for ourselves we weren’t disappointed! As part of their new Wine Club a sixcourse tasting menu, overseen

by Executive Chef Gareth Hope, is expertly complemented with paired wine from different regions each session. The night we attended we were taken through Spain through a series of contemporary Spanish plates, married with the acclaimed Marqués de Cáceres Excellens

range. We found it an evening that’s truly designed to bring the local community together for a relaxed and informative night, perfect for wine lovers and the simply wine-curious. You can expect the now legendary Royal George hospitality, a welcoming atmosphere and a journey through a wine region without leaving the banks of the Wye. We’d recommend looking out for their next evening!

Can’t wait that long? If you’re heading to Tintern for a visit, pop-in and sample the food in The Lower Deck Pub or Café.

We’ll be back for a wood-fired pizza in the garden soon! theroyalgeorge.com @theroyalgeorgetintern www.themintlist.com image credits – Dave Watts Style of the city 71

COOKING & TRAVEL

Silures – Coastal Dining in the Heart of Penarth Set in the heart of Penarth with breathtaking views across the sea, Silures at Holm House offers a truly unique and elegant dining experience. Inspired by both European and British influences, Silures combines the warmth of coastal dining with the refinement of modern hospitality, creating a space that is both welcoming and sophisticated.

O

ur menus bring together the freshness and seasonality of European cuisine with the comfort and quality of British classics. Using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, we offer dishes that celebrate flavour, quality and creativity throughout the year.

At Silures, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service in a relaxed and friendly manner.

Our team creates a warm, attentive atmosphere where every guest can feel at ease, whether joining us for a casual lunch, a special evening meal or a weekend treat.

The restaurant is designed to impress. Inside, calming décor and an elegant dining space provides a refined yet comfortable setting. Outside,

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Experience Silures— where great food, warm service and coastal views come together. our beautiful garden terrace overlooks the sea, offering the perfect place to relax and enjoy drinks or dining on warmer days.

Throughout the week, we offer a range of experiences for our guests. Wednesdays Wellington features a classic serving of Beef Wellington, a firm favourite. On Friday and Saturdays, guests

can enjoy a refined Afternoon Tea accompanied by a selection of World’s best teas and the option to add Champagne or non-alcoholic sparkling wine.

Our Sunday Roast is a true highlight of the week, renowned for its quality and frequently recommended by guests to friends and family.

To discover more or make a reservation, please visit: silurespenarth-amh.com/ Silures at Holm House info@silurespenarth-amh.com 02922970251

FAMILY RUN IN THE HEART OF WALES Established back in 2020 in the heart of a small Welsh village, Bethany has been growing The Station ever since.

Inside our bite-sized shop you'll find a large selection of goods made by small, local businesses. Whether it's fresh loaves of bread, jars of honey bottled from the fields behind us, or cheeses, crackers and chutneys from the rolling hills of Snowdonia, we've got you covered. Some of our products are made just 5 minutes away from the shop including scotch eggs, brownies and cookies.

We offer fresh seasonal produce daily in store alongside the option of fruit and vegetable

subscription boxes which can be collected in store or delivered locally to your door.

We offer specialised bespoke gifting hampers for your special occasions whether it be a birthday, an anniversary, a bereavement, or just a little something to treat a loved one.

We custom build your hampers to order following any guidance and dietary requirements.

Did we mention that we have a refill section for nuts, pulses, grains as well as household cleaners? There is even a 24/7 organic milk and milkshake vending machine on our forecourt.

When we say it's a treasure trove of goodies, we mean it!

If you have the chance to shop local, we encourage you to do so! Supporting Welsh businesses means enjoying fresh, local produce and unique products while contributing to the vitality of our communities.

Fast forward to 2026, we are now a family run business with Maddy joining the fold. Two sisters with like minded goals and dreams. When you choose to shop local, you're not just getting quality products; you're also helping to sustain the hard work and dedication of those who create them.

You can find us just a short drive off junction 35 of the M4 on the main road through the village of Coychurch, Bridgend, CF35 5ES. Shop Local. Shop Welsh.

Shop The Station. thestationcoychurch @gmail.com @thestation_coychurch_ The Station @thestation2020 Style of the city 73

PROPERTY & INTERIORS

PROPERTY & INTERIORS

Hensol Castle Distillery Exclusive Hire of Unique Underground Bar Located deep within the cellars of the 400-year-old Grade I-listed Hensol Castle, the bar’s aesthetic artfully blends the castle’s historic features with a modern industrial feel, with the atmosphere of an exclusive speakeasy-style hideaway.

T

he bar can accommodate up to 50 guests, making it ideal for intimate celebrations, stylish gatherings and corporate drinks receptions.

Whether planning a birthday, hen or stag gathering, bridal shower, team-building session or a milestone celebration, the space offers the perfect blend of historic architecture and modern sophistication.

Food can be added via light nibbles, hot finger buffet, grazing tables or freshly-baked pizza platters. Distillery tours and gin and rum making masterclasses can also be added to any bar hire; the perfect way to make the most of the distillery’s fantastic array of on-site experiences.

Ideal for those seeking something beyond the ordinary, the bar provides both the mood and the flexibility to create a tailored event, complete with optional distillery experiences such as gin tours, distill-yourown sessions or cocktail masterclasses.

For further information, please visit the Hensol Castle Distillery website at hensolcastledisillery.com/ distillery-bar-hire Style of the city 75

PROPERTY & INTERIORS

Kitchenology: Stylish Kitchens in the Heart of Penarth This family-run business has a proud heritage, having been founded as Radiocraft in Cardiff in 1949 Shopping local has never been more important, and Penarth’s high street is home to a fantastic independent business ready to help you create the kitchen you’ve always wanted. Kitchenology, formerly known as Vale Kitchen Studio, is now located in the stylish premises at 33 Windsor Road.

This family-run business has a proud heritage, having been founded as Radiocraft in Cardiff in 1949. Over 75 years later, they have evolved from a TV and audio shop into a kitchen and appliance specialist, while maintaining their commitment to personal, friendly service.

A part of Penarth’s vibrant mix of independent shops and larger retailers, Kitchenology offers everything from bespoke kitchen designs to top-quality appliances.

Their free designs service, interestfree finance options, and expert installation making it as smooth and exciting as possible.

You’ll find German-made Nobilia kitchens for sleek, modern living as well as Ashley Ann kitchens for a more traditional touch. Kitchenology is los proud to be Penarth’s only store offering a range of white goods and home appliances. They stock a wide range of essential items, including washing machines, dishwashers, fridges, freezers, ovens, and vacuum cleaners.

With leading brands such as Bora, Miele, Neff, Siemens, Bosch, Sony, and Samsung, as well as the ability to order other models upon request, you’ll find everything you need under one roof. Plus. with free delivery and expert installation, it’s truly a local, hassle-free service.

By choosing Kitchenology, you’re not only receiving expert advice and high-quality products, but you’re also supporting a family business that is passionate about serving the local community. Whether you’re planning a complete kitchen renovation or need a new appliance, stop by their showroom on Windsor Road to see how they can help.

33 Windsor Road, Penarth, CF64 1JD. 02922741179. kitchenology.uk sales@ kitchenology.uk

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PROPERTY & INTERIORS

Every Home Has a Story, I make sure it’s told beautifully.

Meet Dawn Taylor, Wales's leading independent estate agent, who makes it her mission to ensure buying and selling your home is a simple, streamlined experience.

I

started my journey in property at just 19 years old. Back then, the industry looked very different. No online portals, no digital marketing, and certainly no social media campaigns. What has not changed, however, is the importance of people, trust, and understanding what home truly means.

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Over 35 years later, having worked across the UK and now proudly based in the Vale of Glamorgan, my approach remains rooted in those same values. Only now, it is more refi ned, elevated, and far more strategic.

Being Welsh and living in the Vale, I feel deeply connected to this area. It is not just where I work. It is where I belong. From its coastline and countryside to its vibrant villages and elegant homes, the Vale of Glamorgan offers something truly special. That is why I am so passionate about helping people move here, within here, and beyond.

For me, property has never been just about transactions. It is about people and their stories.

Every home has a story, whether it is a charming cottage that has evolved over generations, a contemporary penthouse with breathtaking views, or a brand-new home built on land rich with history. My role is to uncover that story and present it in a way that resonates with the right buyer.

Whether you are buying, selling, relocating, or simply looking for advice, Dawn offers a tailored and personal approach to every move.

That is where my approach is different.

I combine experience with strategy, but also with a very personal touch.

No two clients are the same, and no two properties should ever be marketed the same way. I take time to understand not just the property, but the journey behind it and the next chapter my clients are moving towards.

And that is exactly how I approach every move.

Here is what some of Dawn's previous clients have to say:

It is a fully tailored experience.

Elizabeth Hunt

From initial consultation through to completion, I guide my clients through every step of their move.

Whether they are upsizing, downsizing, relocating, or investing, I make sure the process feels seamless, informed, and, most importantly, supported.

Dawn completely restored our faith in estate agents.

Professional, knowledgeable and genuinely invested in getting the best outcome for us.

The property industry has changed dramatically over the years.

Buyers now make decisions faster, marketing moves quicker, and presentation matters more than ever before. But while technology has evolved, people still want the same thing. Honesty, communication, and someone they trust to get the most important move of their life right.

That balance between modern marketing and genuine personal service is at the heart of how I work.

Over the years I have had the privilege of helping clients sell and buy an incredible variety of homes.

From picturesque village cottages to luxury penthouses, waterside apartments, and stunning manor houses set within acres of land.

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Each one required a different strategy. Each one had a different story. Each one deserved to be showcased in the best possible way.

Mark Grant Fast, proactive and solutionsdriven. Dawn handled a complex UK-wide portfolio brilliantly from start to fi nish.

Cameron Sharp Dawn was incredible from start to fi nish. A wealth of industry knowledge, always at the end of the phone, and she went above and beyond to stop problems before they became problems.

All estate agents should strive for the care and professionalism that Dawn shows without effort.

Contact Dawn Taylor eXp 07899 971786 dawn.taylor@expuk.com

Dawn Taylor,

Real Estate Agent Answering commonly asked questions about the property market.

Q1.

In this climate, what top three tips would you give to fi rst-time buyers?

Get clarity before you fall in love Speak to a mortgage adviser early and understand exactly what you can borrow and what your monthly costs will look like.

The right preparation puts you in a position of strength when the right home comes along.

Look beyond the obvious The perfect home on day one is rare. Focus on location, layout, and long-term potential rather than cosmetic fi nishes. Kitchens can be changed. Postcodes cannot.

Move with confidence, not fear Markets will always shift. Trying to “time it perfectly” often leads to missed opportunities.

If a property works for your lifestyle and your fi nances feel comfortable, that’s what really matters.

Q2.

What should you consider as a seller when choosing an estate agent?

Who will actually handle your sale?

Many sellers meet one person and never speak to them again.

You should know exactly who is responsible for your sale from start to fi nish and feel confi dent they’ll be there when it matters most.

Strategy over promises A high asking price means nothing without a clear plan.

Ask how your home will be positioned, marketed, and launched, especially in those crucial fi rst two weeks when most buyer interest happens.

Presentation is everything Your home has one chance to make a fi rst impression.

Professional photography, video, and strong storytelling are no longer optional. They are essential if you want to attract serious buyers and protect your price.

A final word…

With over 35 years in the property sector, I’ve built my business around one simple principle: Personal service delivers better results.

I work with my clients from the very fi rst conversation through to completion, advising, negotiating, and guiding every step of the way.

Moving home isn’t just a transaction. It’s a moment that deserves to be handled properly.

Contact Dawn Taylor eXp 07899 971786 dawn.taylor@expuk.com Style of the city 79

PROPERTY & INTERIORS

Jewels Canley Interiors

Jewels Canley Interiors has been running for an impressive 43 years, concentrating on upholstery & curtain making. With Julie starting the business with her upholstery skills back in 1983 and then Hayley joining forces as she wanted to incorporate her design background to include full room renovations.

You may know them from their previous shop locations in Tudor St, Whitchurch Rd and Glebe St, Penarth.

They are now a mobile business and will call directly to your home to measure and go through fabric books.

We caught up with Hayley to ask, what are her FAQs.

1

Why does it seem like everyone is painting their ceilings to match the walls these days?

The reason behind this is to stop the sudden start of the ceiling which is commonly painted in a bright white. If you continue with the same colour then the room feels higher without the abrupt cut off.

If this feels too intimidating, why not try ceiling blurring. This is where you paint the ceiling 2 shades lighter than the wall colour to make it a little less heavy feeling.

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2

How can I make a cold room feel warmer without going for orange or pink tones?

A room can feel cold if it is north facing, so I normally recommend going for a colour with a warm undertone. If you like your blues then go for a blue that has some green within it, for example F&B Oval Room Blue is a great option for brightness whilst giving warmth.

3

Are made to measure curtains really expensive?

Well…it may seem expensive if it is the first time you are getting a quote for curtains or you haven’t bought new ones in a long time.

Curtains are an investment but they can last up to 25 years with a good fabric –so really, they are not expensive at all.

If you are going to buy one thing then made to measure curtains can really make a room feel finished and put together.

jewelscanley_interiors Jewels Canley Interiors jewelscanley.co.uk hayley@jewelscanley.co.uk 02920 707779

PROPERTY & INTERIORS

Where Deals Get Done Helping property investors start, scale and grow their portfolios with creative, specialist finance.

I

've spent just under a decade in the mortgage and property finance world, helping investors, landlords and developers across South Wales and beyond navigate everything from simple buy to lets to more complex deals.

I'm born and bred in Newport which is where my brokerage Elan Property Finance is based.

I've also built a platform beyond broking (@wheresshaz) through podcasts, speaking at events and press appearances, all centred around one thing;

" Making property finance more understood and more accessible."

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PROPERTY & INTERIORS One story that stands out is a client of mine, Tej. Over a nine month period, he acquired 15 properties across South Wales using a strategy known as buy, refurbish, refinance.

In simple terms, he targeted some of the worst houses on the street. Properties that needed work, often overlooked by the average buyer. He would purchase them, carry out a focused refurbishment, and aim to turn them into some of the best properties in that same location.

Once the works were complete, the property would be revalued. Every time the value uplift was strong enough which meant he could refinance based on the new value, repay any initial funding or investor capital, and recycle the same pot of money into the next deal.

Of course we assisted with the finance all the way through.

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Rinse and repeat.

What started with capital and backing evolved into a position where the deals began to fund themselves. Not overnight, not without pressure, and definitely not without risk. But with the right structure, it created momentum.

The key takeaway here is not that this is easy or guaranteed.

It isn't. Every deal relies on accurate valuations, realistic refurb costs, and a clear exit.

More importantly, it relies on having the right people around you. A broker who understands the strategy, a solicitor who can keep pace, and an accountant who can structure things properly.

South Wales continues to offer real opportunity, but only for those who approach it with the right knowledge, the right team, and a clear plan.

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