Halloween Swealthy guide to elevating your celebrations
68-69
What’s On?
Your guide to what’s on across the Midlands - including the region’s very best bonfire night celebrations
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West Midlands B90 4GT
0121 745 9911
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IT’S COMPETITION TIME.
FEATURED CONTRIBUTORS:
A big thank you to our contributors this month
Suzanna Hayes-Goldfinch
Senior copywriter
Dawn Lander
Copywriter
Luke Wells
Product photographer
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Hello!
This end of the year is always a little busy, and this issue of the magazine is a great reflection of that! We’ve got a guide to having the most stylish Halloween event and a reminder about International Men’s Day – how will you mark it this year?
We’ve also profiled the most gorgeous wedding venue if you got engaged over the Summer and need to start planning. And if you are thinking ahead to your next staycation, we’ve found a gorgeous glamping retreat for you to enjoy. In the meantime, check out this issue’s renovation article – Louise has turned her home into something truly incredible. She’s managed everything from rebuilding to styling, but if you have a home to stage and you’re looking for an expert to do it for you, you’ll want to read our announcement and interview with Melissa Yeadon.
Dare we go there... Christmas is fast approaching and we think this is the year to get organised. Our early bird Christmas gift guide will help you get all the present buying out of the way in plenty of time to properly enjoy the festive season.
You’ll be glad you got your Christmas shopping done early if you were thinking of spending the holiday season on the slopes. We’ve picked out some of the most exclusive ski resorts in the world so you can make the best choice. Consider us your winter event fixers this year!
To perfectly round off the issue, we’ve got an article on the UK’s best Italian restaurants – we’re drooling just thinking about those big bowls of pasta! And not forgetting our regular FOOD BIBLE which we’re told has fast become your go to guide of fine food and drink across the Midlands!
So read on and enjoy!
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THE FRAGRANCE EDIT: By Harvey Nichols Birmingham
1 / FRAGRANCE DU BOIS
SIRÈNE EAU DE PARFUM 75ML
£235.00
Sirène is the latest addition to Fragrance Du Bois collection and the first in the collection which has been designed for women. Since launching earlier this year, it has been hugely popular with our customers. You immediately notice the black cherry, which then softens into a very alluring, fruity and woody scent. It comes in a stunning, embellished bottle and elegant gift box which adds to the sense of luxury.
2 / ELLA K
MUSC K EAU DE PARFUM 100ML
£223.00
Every time I use this perfume, someone always asks me what I’m wearing. It stays on your skin for a long time and smells fantastic. It has a clean and salty musk scent with notes of pink pepper, sand lily, Orris oil and cedarwood.
3 / MAISON MARGIELA
REPLICA BY THE FIREPLACE EAU DE TOILETTE 100ML
£125.00
From Maison Margiela’s Replica collection, this Eau de Toilette has top notes of pink pepper and clove, with warming notes of cashmeran and orange flower. Imagine sitting by a crackling fire on a cold winter night, sipping warm mulled wine. This perfume captures that cozy, autumn-winter feeling.
4 / JEROBOAM
INSULO EAU DE EXTRAIT 30ML
£100.00
This unisex fragrance by Jeroboam has been my go-to evening fragrance for years. Insulo has top notes of vanilla, jasmine at the heart and the brand’s signature blend of enigmatic musks at the base. The unique scent is so unforgettable and lasts for hours.
5 / NISHANE
HUNDRED SILENT WAYS EXTRAIT DE PARFUM 100ML
£285.00
Harvey Nichols Birmingham Beauty Manager, Helen Gough, shares her favourite fragrances currently available at the luxury Mailbox store. 1 3 5 2 4 6
The Istanbul-based perfume house has become one of the most celebrated niche fragrance brands in the world. Hundred Silent Ways is one of my all-time, go-to scents. The fruity notes, with bergamot and wood make it perfect for both day and night. It’s also a great scent to layer throughout the day to make it stronger for the evening.
6 / DIOR
MISS DIOR EAU DE PARFUM 150ML
£179.00
This best-selling fragrance by Dior is a classic. It has a fresh and sensual floral scent making it very wearable and a great choice if you’re purchasing as a gift for a loved one.
You can visit Helen and the Beauty team to explore the full range of fragrance and beauty instore at Harvey Nichols Birmingham.
THE COUNTDOWN IS ON
Get ready for Christmas in style with a Harvey Nichols Advent Calendar.
Choose from a whole month of beauty surprises or, treat yourself to12 Days of luxury perfume. The highly anticipated Beauty Advent Calendar is now available instore and online. The Fragrance Advent Calendar will be available from 17th October.
Harvey Nichols 12 Days of Fragrance Advent Calendar
£165
Worth over £730, the 12 Days of Fragrance Calendar has scentsational surprises waiting for you inside every drawer. Featuring Creed, Byredo, Maison Crivelli, Parfums de Marly, Xerjoff, Frederic Malle and more, open your way to a speciallycurated selection of our most-loved perfumes over 12 days of Christmas – including seven full-sized products. And if that wasn’t already enough to get you in the festive spirit, one in every 100 calendars will include a Harvey Nichols Gift Card, worth £165.
The Harvey Nichols Beauty Advent Calendar
£250
Worth over £1,000, the Harvey Nichols Beauty Advent Calendar 2024 is brimming with beauty heroes inside a new, iconic design. From Charlotte Tilbury, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Le Labo, La Prairie and Sisley Paris to Fenty Beauty, Trinny London, Sol de Janeiro and Xerjoff, open 25 captivating drawers to discover our most-loved beauty treats, including 18 full-sized products. Plus, to boost the festive joy, one in100 Beauty Advent Calendars will include a Harvey Nichols Gift Card, worth £250.
OUR 10 MOST EXCLUSIVE SKI RESORTS AROUND THE WORLD
Whether you’re a skiing pro or yet to master the slopes, it can be distracting to try and get to the bottom with any kind of grace when the mountains are overcrowded. That’s why we’ve put together this list of ski resorts that are more exclusive than the traditional tourist traps, so you can enjoy a more peaceful piste.
Whistler
CANADA
The resort that hosted the Winter Olympics 2010, Whistler really does have it all. With plenty of mixed terrain and varied runs, this resort gets some impressive snowfall, making for a longer-than-usual ski season and an incredible view no matter where you stand on the mountain.
The celebrities love Whistler, perhaps because they have the option to arrive by helicopter. This is a popular transportation choice for visitors making the short trip from Vancouver airport to the mountain. In fact, you can spend your whole visit in a helicopter if you like, with Heliski taking you to the most pristine runs on the mountain, with little traffic and the freshest snow. It doesn’t get more exclusive than that!
And when it comes to deciding where to stay, you can’t go wrong with the Four Seasons Hotel, where you can soothe tired muscles with heat treatments in the luxurious spa.
Courchevel FRANCE
Of course, you can’t have a list of exclusive ski resorts without mentioning Courchevel. A favourite destination of the A-list, there are so many trails to explore and some truly breath-taking views to discover from the peaks. It’s a great choice for beginners and experts, with some lovely gentle slopes to practice on and some off-piste runs to challenge those with more experience
And the food in the area is divine too, but you will have to book to have a hope of eating in any of the best establishments. You have to try one of the incredible desserts at Cedric Grolet, and of course, because its France, you’ll need to find a good raclette or a tartiflette.
If you want to experience Courchevel like the royal family then you need to stay at their favourite spot, Les Airelles. This decedent, palace-style hotel is the most luxurious spot in the mountains.
Niseko
JAPAN
Niseko is less well-known than many of the other ski resorts on our list, which automatically makes it a little quieter than the rest. It might not stay that way for long though, as this is definitely an up-and-coming destination.
There are four ski resorts on the mountain, collectively known as Niseko United. To enjoy the most luxurious ski experience, you’ll want to stay at the Higashiyama Niseko Village. It doesn’t matter which room you stay in, you’ll get incredible views of one of the surrounding mountains. One of the views comes courtesy of the hot spring bathtub, bringing you true relaxation in privacy.
Niseko Village is a small resort compared to some of the others, but it offers gentle runs for beginners and some long, steep slopes for more experienced skiers. And if you do find yourself running out of snow, your ski pass gives you access to the other resorts too, so you can spend weeks exploring if you like!
Lech
AUSTRIA
Lech is a great resort for those just starting to get their ski legs. There are no black runs here, only blue and red, so you can relax a little as you make your way down the slopes. If you are an experienced skier, however, you will find lots of off-piste trails to follow, adding a little excitement to your visit.
This is another resort that offers heliskiing, something you really should try for the most exclusive experience. But it is the food that might sway your booking decision, with several Michelin star restaurants in the area’s many boutique hotels. Nothing tastes quite as good as the dinner you’ve earned after a hard day on the slopes and these establishments have attracted many a famous diner.
And those famous guests usually stay at Severin’s Alpin Hotel. This luxury resort offers premium suites worthy of royalty and a wellness area that will help bring your muscles back to life.
Photo: Kevin Oliveri-Hiver
Photo: Niseko Tourism
Klosters
SWITZERLAND
Another resort set in the Swiss alps, Klosters is always alive with celebrities, royals and millionaires. It’s a relatively small resort compared to others, and is situated right next to the bigger, more popular Davos, but that’s what makes it such a great place for a quiet ski retreat. Let the tourists flock to the flashier resorts and enjoy a little exclusivity in Klosters.
This is the home of “stealth wealth”. You won’t find big designer boutiques or fancy five-star hotels, but you might stumble across a member of the royal family as you make your way onto the slopes. They particularly like to stay at Chalet Eugiena, an 11-bedroom escape that is the epitome of quiet luxury.
Klosters has 300km of slopes for you to slide down, but if you do find yourself yearning for a little more action, it’s easy to pop over to Davos for a day, giving you the best of both worlds in one ski trip.
Verbier
SWITZERLAND
The World’s Best Ski Resort (according to the World Ski Awards in 2021 and 2022) is part of the Four Valleys in Switzerland, all of which offer incredible ski opportunities, but there’s something a little special about Verbier. With amazing views of Mount Blanc and the Matterhorn from the highest peaks, this is a wonderful resort for more experienced skiers looking for a challenge. There’s plenty of off-piste powder to entice thrill-seekers, but not so much for beginners.
The apres-ski scene is lively, with plenty of excellent bars, restaurants and nightclubs to distract you from the slopes. You are almost guaranteed sun and fluffy snow during the ski season, due to the altitude of the resort, making it popular with the rich and famous. Some of these celebrities have stayed at the Hotel Farinet, a beautiful accommodation with a lively atmosphere and easy access to the Verbier resort.
Val D’Isere
FRANCE
Offering one of the longest ski seasons in Europe thanks to its high altitude, Val D’Isere is all about the ski scene. There’s something for all abilities to enjoy, including the 1992 Olympics Men’s Downhill slope for you to test your skills on – could you be an Olympic skier one day?
This Alpine resort is just a short distance from the French/Italian border, giving you the opportunity to ski into another country if you head over to Tignes. With over 90 lifts in the area, you are unlikely to exhaust all your ski options – there is plenty to explore, including a lot of off-piste powder! Those with a little more ski-skill under their belt might want to check out one of the two glaciers, which are sure to test your courage!
And where to stay while you’re there? Le K2 Chogori is a relatively new boutique hotel that’s only open during the ski season. It is perfectly set-up for skiers, with a range of wellness facilities that will make your stay feel like a dream.
So, where are you off to on your next ski trip? There’s plenty of incredible resorts to choose from.
Possibly the most famous ski resort in the world, these four mountains tower over Colorado, enticing celebrities and snow-lovers from near and far. This ski resort is so extra that it even has its own airport, so you can fly right into the snow, making transfers easy.
Full of fine dining, art galleries and designer boutiques, you might struggle to find time to ski! But if you do make it to the slopes, you’ll be treated to heated gondolas and mid-piste champagne bars. With plenty of ski opportunities to choose from, spread out over Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk and Aspen Highlands, you certainly won’t get bored at this resort!
And for the most luxurious way to start and end your days, you’ll want to book in at The Little Nell. It is right at the center of all the ski action, allowing you to ski out of the front door, but it also offers world-class comfort.
Cortina
ITALY
Regular skiers need to put Cortina on their bucket list because this is the ultimate ski resort. With incredible views, amazing food and a fabulous apres-ski scene, there are over 1000km of slopes to ski down, keeping you busy for a good while!
There are some great ski tours to enjoy too. History buffs will love the Great War Tour, which allows you to ski through snow-covered heritage sites, while the Super 8 tour even incorporates a horse-drawn stretch as you explore the wonders of the nearby mountains.
If you’d rather seek thrills, there are 13 black runs to explore. Are you brave enough to try them all?
And there’s no better place to relax after your adventures than at the five-star Grand Hotel Miramonti Majestic, which is close to the ski action but far enough away to feel like a retreat.
Gstaad
SWITZERLAND
The celebrities love Gstaad for skiing and it is easy to see why. Gstaad Palace is the hotel of choice, and has been for over 50 years, ensuring patrons live in the absolute lap of luxury after a hard day on the slopes. From here, the best ski spots are Wispile and Wasserngrat. Wispile is perfect for family skiing, with plenty of nursery slopes to help you get your piste legs, while Wasserngrat is where you’ll find The Tiger Run, the steepest run in Gstaad which is also quite long – great for thrill-seekers!
The resort sits in the centre of four valleys. Wispile and Wasserngrat are in one direction, but if you really want to take your time to explore the area, you have three other routes to choose from! Take the gondola from the edge of the village to the top of Saanen, or head over to the valley that comprises Schönried, Saanenmoser and Zweissimen. The choices are endless, and each one is more beautiful than the last!
Copyright Information Destination Gstaad Yannick Romagnoli
When you hear the term ‘getting back to nature’, your brain might automatically turn to the idea of outdoor showers and treks through forests, and you’d be right! But The Firs brings an element of luxury to your visit, so you never feel like you’re slumming it. Instead, you can count it as an experience you’ll never forget, for all the right reasons. Are you ready for a glamping holiday of a lifetime?
A BLISSFUL HIDEAWAY
The 22-acre site is set around a farmhouse and has a range of glamping accommodation options for you to choose from, with large bell tents and teepees for you to get comfortable in. All are equipped with proper beds, mattresses and bedding, so you are guaranteed a good night’s sleep in nature. One of the best things about the location is that it is just a short drive from Birmingham. Turn off at J5 on the M5 and you are almost there, so you can plan regular retreats without having to travel too far.
And despite its proximity to the city, you will feel like you’re a million miles away from all the chaos. And it is the perfect location for big groups of people to stay. You can book out the whole venue for your occasion, whether that’s a birthday,
anniversary, wellness retreat or a wedding and there will be room for everyone.
To add that premium edge to your visit, The Firs has recently obtained its alcohol license and there is now has a bar. There are plans for a fine-dining set-up in the woodlands, allowing you to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the space at the same time as eating really good food. There are fire pits, which are great for relaxing around in the evening, and the showers might be outdoors, but they come with some truly breathtaking views that will make for a lovely cleansing experience.
A LAID-BACK VIBE
Sarah and Zak Sweeney took over the site in 2019, but this is their second season welcoming guests. They have a lot of ideas on how to create a chilled-out, festival space, with plans to convert some of the grade-II listed barns to high-end holiday lets and a full calendar of wellness activities currently being created.
But if you don’t want to follow a timetable, this is the perfect place to unwind and take your time. There are lots of local attractions within walking distance, including National Trust site Hanbury Hall and plenty of village-style pubs. If you just want to
A BLANK CANVAS FOR YOUR GLAMPING RETREAT
put on your walking boots and head out, the site lies right on the Hanbury Circular, so you can stroll to your heart’s content!
A TAILORED RETREAT
Sarah considers The Firs to be a blank canvas when it comes to retreats. She is happy to tailor a whole weekend around what her guests want. In the past they’ve had people bring alpacas, bucking broncos and arcade machines, but she suggests that it would also be a great spot for clay pigeon shooting, axethrowing or garden games. She’s keen to provide for everyone.
Sarah has a full directory of wellness practitioners on hand. From yoga instructors, meditation experts and breathwork guides to those offering sound baths, nutritional information and rapid transformational therapy. In the future you might also see cold water plunge baths on the site. So, if you want to organise your own wellness retreat that works around your groups’ needs, Sarah can help.
One of the loveliest things about The Firs is that whichever accommodation option you choose, you’ll feel like you’ve picked the best one. Sarah still can’t pick a favourite spot, “The haybarn is probably one of my favourite places. The glamping
feels lovely because it’s got a nice view, but the woodlands, especially in April, it’s like a sea of bluebells, it’s quite stunning. People always say it’s quite magical here”.
Fancy a magical retreat that’s close to home? Book your trip via The Firs website:
thefirs-hanbury.co.uk
“it’s stunning, people always say it’s quite magical here”
15 years
of wedding bliss
“The couple don’t have to do anything on their wedding day here”
Redhouse Barn has just celebrated its crystal anniversary –the 5th September 2024 marked 15 years of weddings at this specialist design-built venue. Despite being one of hundreds of wedding venues in the county of Worcestershire, it is easy to see why Redhouse Barn has stood the test of time.
We spoke to owners Jeremy Bellis and Jane Finch to see what makes this such a special venue for your big day.
A wedding as unique as the couple
“There is a lot that we do that other venues don’t. It is very much a high-end lifestyle business for us rather than a wedding factory. We only do around 60 weddings a year, so it’s about quality rather than quantity and the experience that couples and their guests have with us.
“We don’t restrict couples to food or drink packages –everything is tailored by our caterers Morgans, ensuring couples have what they want. Once they have designed their menu with Chef Anthony Morgan, they have the opportunity to have a meal of their actual wedding breakfast at the Barns. See how the food looks, importantly, how it tastes, to experience the service and make any tweaks. And we hold wine tastings for the couples and their parents twice a year.
“Each table has a member of staff to serve the food as soon as it is ready, which means it is served piping hot and those posh scotch eggs are runny. Our ‘staff to guest’ ratio is very high ensuring an exceptional service experience.”
Taking on the weight of the wedding
The Redhouse Barn team is very hands-on once the wedding planning is underway. Jane & Jeremy live on-site, so they are available to contact day and night.
“We sort as much as possible. We set up most of the wedding accessories and tables. The couple don’t have to do anything on their wedding day here, they just have to enjoy every moment of it. The attentive MC and front of house managers ensure that everything is done in a timely and seamless way without any fuss.”
Making it special
The flexibility of a civil ceremony on site means couples can get married anywhere within the five-acre grounds of Redhouse Farm. There’s over an acre of formal gardens, koi ponds, waterfalls, perfectly striped lawns and play lawns, ensuring that no matter where you set up, the photos will be incredible. There are equally impressive indoor options too, so you never have to worry about the weather.
The venue is well-equipped to make for a hassle-free, special day. There are fairy-lit trees, garden games, lanterns and accessories, as well as a full Bose sound-system, light-up LED dance floor and professional special effects lighting rig. There’s even a large drop-down screen and digital Bluetooth projector that allows guests to share messages, use during speeches or for the couple to show lots of pictures of their journey together.
But Jane believes that a good wedding relies on a great party and on good food. “Nobody wants a wedding that is remembered for them being hungry, so feed your guests well –it’s a long day with alcohol throughout, so delicious food keeps hunger at bay.”
That’s why Morgans cook all the food fresh, in-house, with a catering team that have previously won The Wedding Industry Awards and The Food Industry Awards ‘Caterers of the Year’. Meanwhile, Redhouse Barn has been awarded The Wedding Industry Awards and English Weddings ‘Wedding Venue of the Year’. So as far as accolades are concerned, you’re in good hands!
“Morgans cook all the food fresh, in-house, with a catering team that have previously won industry awards”
“Take a few moments throughout the day to spend time with each other”
Not just a wedding venue
Redhouse Barn is great for other events too. In the past they’ve hosted children’s parties, anniversary dinners and corporate events. They recently held HSBC’s client breakfast meeting and a very successful corporate marketing and rebranding launch to 180 staff for a large Midlands accountancy business.
The Barn has space for 160 seated or 200 to party, while smaller events can be held in the Lounge Bar. “We can do most types of event – just come and chat to us!”
But of course, weddings are still the main focus for Redhouse Barn. Jane has a top tip for her couples: “Take a few moments throughout the day to spend time with each other and step out of the wedding bubble to take in what’s happening. The day goes by really quickly, so enjoy those small moments.”
Want to discover the magic of Redhouse Barn for yourself? Their next wedding open event is Sunday 12th January 2025. Could this be the wedding venue you’ve been looking for?
For more information, head to: redhousebarn.co.uk
UNCOVERING YOUR NEXT UK ADVENTURE
THIS SUMMER, WE LAUNCHED OUR FIRST, MUCH ANTICIPATED COLLECTION IN THE MIDLANDS , COTSWOLDS & SURROUNDING AREAS
To find out more about Ellerton Hall, plus many more hidden gems waiting to be discovered, visit our Instagram & website today:
Ellerton Hall, Shropshire | Sleeps 12
Early bird Christmas gifting
Don’t you wish you could be one of those people that has their Christmas shopping done by the end of November so you can enjoy the December festivities without a care in the world? Well now you can! Our early bird Christmas gift guide has suggestions for everybody, so you can order online and sit back and relax until it’s time to wrap!
FORERUNNER 965 WATCH
Garmin: £599.99
If your significant other would prefer a watch that does more than tell the time, there are few better than the Forerunner 965 from Garmin. Perfect for tracking their distance runs, their HIIT runs, their heartrate runs and their speed runs, this watch comes with a ton of extra features they never knew they needed. garmin.com
LUXURY WHISKEY ADVENT CALENDAR
All Things Brighton Beautiful: £224.95
Got a whiskey lover in the house? They’ll adore this unique advent calendar from All Things Brighton Beautiful. It features 24 rare and aged single cask and blended Scottish Whiskeys, allowing them to try a new one every day. allthingsbrightonbeautiful.co.uk
HYDRATING RITUAL – INDIAN ROSE ABSOLUTE COLLECTION GIFT SET
Forest Essentials: £70
Treat someone to this decadent skin care gift set designed to balance and hydrate with a fresh rose fragrance. With a moisture-rich body milk, hydrating shower wash and scented body mist in every set, they’ll jump out of the shower as fresh as a rose every day! forestessentials.co.uk
PYJAMAS
Derek Rose: £225 -£235
It’s important to get a fresh pair of pyjamas every Christmas and these checked designs from Derek Rose are irresistible! There are matching designs for men and women, so you can buy for that sickeningly in-love couple or for anyone who likes to coordinate with their partner.
derek-rose.com
PREMIER
CRU CHAMPAGNE & LUXURY CHAMPAGNE CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES 125G GIFT BOX
Harvey Nichols: £80
Is there anything more decadent than a champagne and chocolate truffle gift set? These are perfect for anyone who “doesn’t need anything” because they are a luxury, rather than an essential. Treat them to the best Friday night in with this set. with the divine Harvey Nichols Premier Cru Brut and Luxury Champagne Truffles, all wrapped up in a stylish gift box.
harveynichols.com
SHEPHERD SHEEPSKIN SLIPPERS HUGO - ANTIQUE OILED
Idyll Home: £69
How cosy do these sheepskin slippers look? The slip-on style is perfect for dad, with rubber grip soles and snuggly interior that makes them both practical and stylish. They come in a lovely gift box too, making them the perfect Christmas gift.
idyllhome.co.uk
GOLD SAUSAGE DOG BOOKENDS
Click Style: £69.95
Do you have a friend who loves to read? These adorable sausage dog bookends will brighten their reading sessions, keeping their books tidy and in order, while adding a bouji vibe to their shelf. Unique and useful –the perfect combination. clickstyle.co.uk
MARAI 401 PRESTIGE – CRIMSON DAWN
Nomadic Watches: £1,495
How smart is this stylish men’s watch? Perfect for the man in your life that could do with better time-keeping skills, you can be sure he will wear this timepiece every day. Hand-built in Belfast with 18k gold, it has an adjustable strap to ensure it fits on any wrist. nomadicwatches.com
WOBBLE CHESS SET
Umbra: £255
Rather than the bog-standard board games, why not treat a family member to a wobble chess set instead? The iconic game of strategy has had a glow up, with chess pieces that wobble in place, adding an extra level of fun to each round. umbra.com
WELLNESS ESCAPE
Re Cabins: POA
Know someone who really needs a chance to switch off and take a break? Gift them a wellness escape at the stunning Re Cabins. Based just outside of London, the cabins come with an outside bathtub big enough for two people to relax in. The company offer gift cards on their website, so they can plan the best time to go themselves. recabins.com
LET’S CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL MEN’S DAY
Tuesday 19th November is International Men’s Day. This is an important day in the global calendar that helps mark the contribution that men and boys make to society, creating positive conversations about men, manhood and masculinity. This annual event helps to raise awareness about some of the biggest issues facing men in the world right now, such as the rising rates of male suicide, male health and a lack of positive male role models. The issues may differ depending on the country the men are in, but the importance of improving male wellbeing is the same.
What to look out for on International Men’s Day
In the past, there have been parliamentary debates, community events and charity fundraisers. Look out for lectures, book launches, student events and comedy nights in your area too – there really is no limit to the ways you can celebrate the day.
Every event is intended to entertain, while highlighting the biggest issues facing men in society today.
Want to throw your own International Men’s Day event?
Whether you have your own business or you are an individual wanting to mark the occasion, there are lots of ways you can get involved,
If you have your own business, you might arrange to get an influential speaker to talk to your employees about masculine wellbeing or any of the issues facing them in the workplace. You might also like to spread the messages of International Men’s Day via your company social media channels, allowing you to reach more people and showing your support for your customers.
Why not sign up to volunteer for charities like the ManKind Initiative, DadsMatter or Andy’s Man Club? That way you can help to keep the important messages alive long after International Men’s Day is over.
On a more personal level, you might want to send a card or a message to a man you admire or one that you thin needs your support. And if you decide to hold a community event, make sure you get in touch with the team at International Men’s Day UK via their email address: contact@ukmensday.org.uk so they can list it in their event section and help to make it a success.
For more information, head to ukmensday.org.uk
Guys, it’s time to hit the pause button and find that elusive balance in life.
Zenergy Wellness would like to invite you to join our first online Men-ditation™ on 22/10/24 & to our community event “How to be a Happy (Hu)man” at Bayley’s of Bromsgrove for International Men’s Day on 19/11/24. Both events are free to attend, offering practical wellness techniques for the real world and will be hosted by Dave James. Further details below.
For more information about the Men-ditation ™ and the free events we are hosting please contact info@ zenergywellness.co.uk or head to the website:
Following the launch of our FOOD BIBLE in issue 23, it’s fair to say the response has been phenomenal with our list fast becoming the go to guide for fine food and drink across the Midlands geography!
Keep your eyes peeled for new additions to the list and our Insta story which lets you check off and share those you’ve tried and tested.
Oh, and if you think we should be adding a venue, let us know with haste at: magazine@swealthy.co.uk
SWEALTHY FOOD BIBLE
A collection of our favourite finds across the Midlands, grouped by postcode. You’re welcome!
You will notice as the issues pass by that some will stay, some will go and our new finds will enter the FOOD BIBLE.
We’re keeping it simple - classified by fine dining / gastro and our humble opinion regarding food, drink and ones to watch (in other words - they’re already great but they’re set to smash it!)
One thing we’re sure of, if it’s made it onto the list - you’re in for a treat!
This list is based on the opinion of our food gurus!
To host, feature, remove or amend, please email: magazine@swealthy.co.uk
THE DUNCOMBE ARMS
SPOTLIGHT REVIEW
Address: Main Road, Ellastone, Ashbourne DE6 2GZ
Date of visit: Thursday 19 September 2024
Time: 19:30
After a scenic drive through the Derbyshire Dales we arrived at The Duncombe Arms, Ellastone. A sneak peak around the beautiful conservatory area and grounds confirmed we were in for a real treat. We were keen to get inside and see why it had retained its Michelin Bib Gourmand for a fourth year.
We were warmly greeted by General Manager, James, who made us feel at home straight away (and took very good care of us for the rest of our evening). After a drink at the bar we were shown to our table. The uber-talented chef, Scott, delivered some very tasty snacks of Beer Battered Pickles with Duncombe Ale mustard Mayo and Smoked Mackerel briquettes with fennel seed crackers to sample while perusing the menu. We were spoilt for choice and it was one of those ‘I want to try it all’ moments! But on to what we chose...
TO START
• Cornish white crab, brown crab crumpet, lemon mayo, mixed baby cress
• Wine pairing of Chablis Domaine Brigitte Cereal, Burgundy, France
• Duncombe Fish Pie - Cod, salmon, king prawn, shellfish sauce, buttered green vegetables
SIDES
• Minted seasonal greens
• Roasted hispi cabbage, walnut & parmesan
TO FINISH
• Chocolate choux bun, honeycomb ice cream
• Americano
• Amaretto Coffee
The most apparent thing from start to finish was the quality and freshness of ingredients. The menu had a fantastic selection of dishes and everything (literally everything) we sampled was bursting with flavour and cooked to perfection. If you’re foodies like us, you’ll love this place. We left and all we could talk about was coming back to sample the rest of the menu. Next time we’ll be trying the infamous Tart Tatin for sure. We were unable to stop on this occasion but also worth noting the Duncombe Arms has a fantastic hotel room offering.
Can’t rate this place highly enough, we both thoroughly enjoyed!
OUR TOP 10 UK ITALIAN RESTAURANTS
Is there anything more satisfying than a big bowl of pasta and a large glass of wine? The Italians know how to make crowd-pleasing food. No matter how much of a fussy eater you are, there’s always something to enjoy in an Italian restaurant – home of the ultimate comfort food.
With that in mind, we’ve scoured the country to find ten outstanding Italian restaurants in the UK. How many have you visited?
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Hartnett Holder & Co at Lime Wood
The two chefs at Hartnett Holder & Co have impressive resumes. Between them they’ve worked with greats like Gordon Ramsey and Marcus Wareing and at some of the most critically acclaimed restaurants in the world, including Orerry and the Oxo Tower. So, you know the Italian food here is second to none, complemented by a smoke oven and a very carefully constructed wine list.
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This is a restaurant that really flaunts the diversity of Italian cooking. You’ll find old favourites like pasta and pizza, of course, but there’s a few surprises along the way that will challenge your perception of what Italian food should be (in a great way!) Expect traditional decor and cocktails made with as much delicacy as the food.
Gem 42
The chefs at Gem 42 use science to ensure good quality food – they even test new flavours and dishes in their lab! As a result, every single dish is faultless. They aim to create a dining experience with simple pleasures, such as a welldesigned dining space and food that tantalises the taste buds.
When the head chef is from Tuscany, you know you are getting properly authentic Italian cuisine, and that is exactly what Caldesi offers. With a focus on local, seasonal and sustainable ingredients, they believe the devil is in the detail, and the menu is just incredible. Who needs Tuscany when you can just pop into Caldesi?
Il Pirata
NEWPORT 1 \
Caldesi in Campagna
BERKSHIRE
3 \
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Sapori
Every mouthful represents a slice of Italy at Sapori, with head chef, Andrea Scarpati an Italian native, originally from Torre del Greco. He learnt his trade in his home country and brought that authentic cooking to England – lucky us! It is regularly recognised as one of the best restaurants in the country, but we recommend you find out for yourself.
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Luca
Executive chef, Rob Chambers, describes Luca as a ‘modern Italian’. He grew up cooking with his aunt and learned to roll his own pasta from an early age. You can really taste that authenticity and freshness in every bite of the food you eat, and if you try the wine-pairing menu, you can see just how well the flavours work together in perfect harmony.
LONDON
5 \
Locanda Locatelli
This Italian restaurant is absolutely swimming in awards, with one Michelin star to its name and three AA rosettes. With accolades like this, you can expect hearty portions and impressive flavours, with dishes inspired by different parts of the country. The wine list is just as authentic, allowing you to pair region to region.
There are only 16 Italian restaurants outside London to feature in the Michelin Guide, and Da Noi is one. Retaining its Michelin star status for another year and adding an AA rosette to its bow, it’s clear to see that the Italian couple in charge of this restaurant know what they’re doing. They now serve only tasting menus, so wear trousers with a stretchy waistband when you visit!
Casa
From self-taught kitchen novices to critical acclaim from Gordon Ramsey, the Sanchez brothers have taken Casa to new heights, offering food that is just mouth-wateringly delicious. You can’t check the menu in advance because it changes daily, depending on seasonality and freshness, but it really doesn’t matter because whatever you eat will taste like a little slice of heaven.
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Brunello at The Baglioni
If you haven’t enjoyed a meal at Brunello, then you haven’t lived! The modern dining room-style restaurant gives high class vibes, but its food is rooted in tradition, bringing comfort to your plate. And the best part? It opens at 7am, so you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner there. We’d stay all day if we could!
BRISTOL
Da Noi
CHESTER
F1® Arcade Birminghambreakfastlaunches menu
F1® Arcade, the official Formula 1® experience bar, located in Paradise Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square, have launched a brand-new weekend breakfast menu, that you can enjoy every Saturday and Sunday between 10am – 12pm.
Their globally inspired breakfast items include Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes, that can be enjoyed with either fresh fruit, or their infamous Dynamite Chicken. The F1® Arcade Breakfast Folded Flatbread that showcases quality ingredients from Burford Brown eggs to Cumberland sausages. Spiced Avocado Smash & Poached Eggs dish, plus a North African style Shakshuka.
Or if you’re wanting something lighter to snack on during a Watch Party, the venue will also be offering a Sweet Lemon Muffin with a choice of any hot drink for only £8.75.
And because it’s always 5’oclock somewhere, it would be rude for there not to be new additions to their cocktail list too! Whether you’re kick-starting your weekend with a brunch date, or setting up for an afternoon Watch Party, you’ll be able to sip on either their new Sweet Holy Mary (the MOTHER of all bloody Marys) or Breakfast Mimosa (breakfast in a champagne flute) all before the drivers have even left the grid.
THE STAGE IS OURS!
When Melissa Yeadon, CEO of UK Property Stagers met the founder of Swealthy Interiors at a networking event, the stars collided, and interior staging magic happened!
This encounter has led to a dream merger that will transform properties and help boost sales. Research tells us that most people can’t imagine a space beyond what they see in front of them, so staging is a great way to show them exactly what is possible. Staging can be used to create a temporary atmosphere or show home. Or it can be more permanent. With turnkey solutions, a customer buys a ready-made property, complete with all the furnishing and finishes implemented.
The possibilities are endless and the chance to increase profit and sell the unsellable means that staging is on the rise. We sat down with Melissa to find out more about this partnership and how it can help your property business. Introducing:
BRINGING IN STAGING BRILLIANCE
“Both teams bring significant networks to the table,” says Melissa about why this is such an important partnership, “Our combined buying power means we can pass on amazing savings to our customers. But the most important thing for us was that our values, mission and standards were so perfectly aligned.”
Melissa got into staging after renovating her own home. “As with most renovations, we went to hell and back 100 times. But every challenge and difficulty had a silver lining – I realised I had a whole set of skills and a love for transforming interior space.”
She was asked by tradesmen why staging wasn’t her main job. With her mum by her side, she took the leap from psychology to staging, working everything around her children and creating a very successful business.
“I love to see the transformation from soulless properties to stunning market-ready homes with an undeniable ‘wow’ factor.”
“I especially enjoy the buzz of watching properties sell for more than their asking price; we dressed a property in Harborne last year, which was passed to me by local estate agent MECS. It had been on the market for over a year with previous estate agents with the feedback that the property felt too small for the asking price. We staged it for sale and within three days it sold for 35k over the previous offer. Needless to say, the client and estate agent were over the moon!”
WHY YOU SHOULD STAGE YOUR PROPERTIES
The Home Staging Association UK and Ireland reported in 2022 that staged homes received an offer in 45 days and sold three times faster than non-staged homes in a third of cases. Every single poll respondent believed that viewings increased on staged homes and buyers spent more time looking round
A recent report from Zoopla shows that staging can add 10% to your sale price when done properly. Melissa agrees: “Research shows us that most people can’t see past a room in its current state. Sometimes that’s an empty room, other times a room with funky carpets and clutter.
“My background in psychology allows me to stage a room in a way that will speak to potential buyers on a deeper level. We create homes, maximising that psychological aspect in our design and implementation so the buyer has that emotional connection to the property.
“The whole point of staging is so the buyer walks in and strikes an emotional connection and can see themselves living there without question or can see the space working as a rental investment for them.”
Melissa’s degree in psychology and background in teaching the subject means she can view everything from the point of
view of potential buyers. “A lot of people can’t visualise where pieces of furniture would go in certain spaces, so it helps them to imagine how they would dress the home when they move in. The aim of staging is for someone to walk in and think ‘Wow! I want this! I want to live here!’ and that’s what we achieve through our work.
“We’ve also seen a huge increase in demand for our turnkey options, which basically means the buyer chooses to buy everything we have used to stage the property as a package. They are literally buying their dream, and we make it effortless.”
TWO POWERHOUSES ON ONE STAGE
With Swealthy and UK Property Stagers coming together, there are many benefits for developers. “We save them time, stress and money and have demonstrated our worth over the years.
“The amount of time it takes to plan, organise, purchase furniture, wait for deliveries, build furniture, organise returns if anything is broken, liaise with removals, organise vans, organise and plan labour, all before installation day! Then on the day, they have to make the property look incredible, take photos, design and implement, make sure the day flows smoothly, remove and dispose of rubbish and then clean the property afterwards. Then, if it’s a rental service, come and remove all the furniture and leave tidy – not many developers want this amount of work to do it themselves.
“There’s a huge amount of time that goes into staging a property which can also be very stressful. They have enough stress on their hands, so that’s one thing we can take away from them.”
And Melissa is not afraid of a little competition: “There’s enough room for everyone.”
In fact, she co-hosts a networking group for females in the property world called Hard Hats to Heels: “A few of us got talking to Hayley Andrews from Property Elevator in a bar in London at the beginning of the year, saying how much this was needed in the property industry. So many females were worried about networking and having a lack of confidence walking in a room full of men, so we wanted to do something that was supportive of women in the industry.
That’s not to say that men aren’t supportive or don’t encourage us – they absolutely do, but it’s to bring women together somewhere where we all feel comfortable, encouraged and supported. It’s a truly fabulous networking event and we’ve had some wonderful speakers. We launched it on International Women’s Day, and it’s been a success ever since!”
So, if you have properties that need staging, you know where to come!
CHRISTMAS DINING
Simpsons has provided the perfect setting for celebrations for more than three decades. Having held a Michelin star for more than 25 years, it has evolved to remain one of Birmingham’s most loved and respected dining destinations.
Set in a stunning Grade II listed Georgian house, the restaurant offers relaxed dining in elegant surroundings that will feature plenty of festive flair throughout the Christmas period.
Diners can look forward to the very best seasonal produce and Christmas classics elevated to the level you’d expect from chef director Luke Tipping and his team.
Gatherings of between eight to 14 guests can celebrate in the stunning private dining room, with a three course à la carte and tasting menu available for small parties.
Wine director Giacomo will offer you the perfect wines to pair with your meal as well as a range of delicious sparkling teas and non-alcoholic alternatives.
Whether it’s an intimate meal for two or a work’s party, you can be sure that the team at Simpsons will give your Christmas celebration that extra sparkle.
This exquisite 5-bedroom new build by Hagley Homes, situated in the heart of Earlswood, offers luxury and tranquillity in equal measure. Nestled down a private gated driveway that serves only three houses, the property sits on a c. 1/2 acre plot with stunning views, providing a perfect blend of exclusivity and natural beauty.
Meadow View
Bromsgrove | £1,250,000
5 4 2
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS It’s who you move with.
Nestled within a generous plot of over 3 acres in the semi-rural area of Wildmoor, Bromsgrove, Meadow View is a spectacular five double bedroom detached house, offered with an additional self-contained one bedroom annexe and renovated stables. This fine country residence, which enjoys 360 degree country views, also boasts no upward chain, spacious accommodation throughout with high quality fixtures and fittings, and impressive and extensive grounds and gardens incorporating a heated outdoor swimming pool, duck pond and a paddock.
7 5 4
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
A rare opportunity to purchase a truly exceptional residence and arguably one of the finest examples of late Victorian architecture in the area. Built in 1891 and kept within one family for the majority, ‘Woodlands’ is a most impressive property with great character. Nestled amidst lush, meticulously manicured grounds of almost 2 acres (approx.), the extremely generous accommodation (amounting to almost 5,000 sq. ft spanning over three floors) is of exceptional quality and provides modern conveniences whilst still retaining many of its period features, including the original french polished mahogany entrance hall and the more recent addition of a heated swimming pool. Located on a particularly prestigious road and surrounded by remarkable greenbelt countryside, this imposing residence offers a serene escape and yet is just 0.8 miles from a mainline train station to Birmingham and less than a mile from amenities within both Alvechurch and Barnt Green.
Coopers Hill
Feckenham | OIRO £1,350,000
3
3 2
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
Situated on the outskirts of Inkberrow and Feckenham village is Bean Hall Mill, a truly remarkable former Watermill set on an estate spanning approximately 5 acres, with extensive outbuildings. Dating back to circa 1591, the property is rich in historic charm, whilst having been meticulously and lovingly restored by the current owners in 2019.
Astwood Lane
Astwood Bank | OIRO £1,200,000
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
Presenting a unique opportunity to acquire a substantial five-bedroom detached home, complete with a detached double garage, situated on the outskirts of Astwood Bank, with exceptional equestrian land and facilities totalling approximately 8.5 acres. The home features versatile accommodation with potential for conversion to combined living, subject to relevant consents and boasts an indoor heated swimming pool with seating and WC facilities. This property is being sold with no upward chain.
5 4 3 It’s who you move with.
Whinfield Road
Dodford | £1,180,000
7 4 3
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
Nestled along a quiet country lane in the sought-after semi-rural area of Dodford, Bromsgrove, is Whinfields, a unique Chartist property with three dwellings situated on a generous and attractive plot boasting 1.47 acres including the main two double bedroom bungalow, a three bedroom annexe and two bedroom annexe. In addition, Whinfields further benefits from having a gated driveway, partially completed triple garage and extensive grounds with 360 degree country views. This partially finished residence is complete to a high standard, but still provides plenty of room for anyone looking for a project to complete it by adding their own touch.
5 2 2
NO UPWARD CHAIN! The Barn is a charming five bedroom residence boasting over 3,000 sq. ft of versatile living accommodation, situated in a semi-rural location of Tardebigge. The accommodation boasts a grand reception hall, two generous reception rooms, en-suite to the master bedroom, main bathroom and downstairs cloakroom. In addition, the property features a south westerly facing rear garden, double garage and ample off-road parking.
Shrubbery Avenue
Worcester | £675,000
4 2 2
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
Step into a world of Victorian charm and modern sophistication with this executive period family home. Nestled on one of Worcester’s few remaining Victorian streets lined with trees, this property is a true testament to the perfect blend of style and practicality. From the stunning fireplace with a log burner and feature bay window in the lounge to the bi-folding doors in the kitchen that bring the outside in, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to create a warm and welcoming home. With ample space for entertaining guests, relaxing with family, and working from home, there’s no limit to what you can achieve with this property. With convenient amenities nearby such as RGS Worcester, local convenience stores, doctors’ surgeries, and Gheluvelt Park, Shrubbery Avenue truly has it all. Come and discover all the possibilities that await you in this stunning property - the perfect place to call home.
Severn Terrace
Worcester | Offers over £575,000
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
An executive Grade II Listed town house situated in a prestigious area of Worcester, located close to town and Pitchcroft racecourse. This home has been lovingly upgraded and renovated throughout to create a luxury homely feel, whilst in keeping with the 200 year old character. Spanning over five floors and boasting approx. 1916 sq ft the property in brief comprises; lounge, dining room, kitchen, utility, family room, office area, four bedrooms, bathroom and shower room. The property benefits from sash windows, gas central heating, garden and driveway. Viewing is recommended to appreciate the size, location and feel of this home.
4 2 3 It’s who you move with.
Peterbrook Road
Shirley | Offers Over £875,000
5
BEDROOMS BATHROOMS RECEPTIONS
This beautifully presented 4/5 bedroom property, located off Peterbrook Road, offers an exceptional blend of modern amenities and classic charm. Nestled down a private road shared with only two other houses, the residence provides an exclusive and tranquil setting. Spanning across 2786 square feet, the home features a recently redone driveway, new windows, front door, soffits, and rendering, enhancing its overall appearance and curb appeal.
3 2 It’s who you move with.
Thatchover Cottage
5 2 3 £1,250,000
Located close to the heart of the popular village of Alrewas, this stunning family home seamlessly blends period charm with modern and contemporary conveniences. Sitting in approximately 0.55 acres, and dating back to the 1600’s, Thatchover Cottage has been extended and remodeled recently to offer versatile accommodation that will suit any discerning buyer. The beautifully presented accommodation includes two delightful reception rooms, a useful boot room as well as a utility room, an exceptional open plan kitchen/diner & living room with bi-fold doors to the gorgeous gardens, principal bedroom with dressing room and en-suite, study/ office space, four further lovely bedrooms and a family bathroom. A gated driveway provides secure parking for several cars.
KEY FEATURES
• Blend of period charm & contemporary twist
• Village location
• Secluded plot extending to 0.55 acres
• Gated driveway
• Open plan kitchen
42 Hartopp Road
7 6 4 £1,675,000
Four Oaks B74 2QR Bed Bath Reception
This exceptional Victorian family is home located on the prestigious Four Oaks Estate and sits on a generous plot just a short distance from Sutton Park. Having a plethora of character features and charm, this lovely home offers three reception rooms, kitchen/diner, utility room, cellar (currently used as a gym), five double bedrooms to the main house along with four bathrooms. In addition to the main house, there is an excellent self contained annex with kitchen/ diner, large living room, two double bedrooms and modern shower room. Externally, a generous driveway provides off road parking for several cars as well as a garage and to the rear is a delightful landscaped garden with original Victorian greenhouse which offers a stunning setting for alfresco dining or gathering complete with a log burning stove.
KEY FEATURES
• Four Oaks Estate location
• Stunning garden
• Separate annexe
• Walking distance to Sutton Park
2 Jervis Park Little Aston B74 3FH
6 4 3 £1,800,000
Located on the prestigious Little Aston Park, this spacious six bedroom family home is in need of some updating but is positioned on a generous plot. On offer are two formal reception rooms, home office, open plan kitchen/diner/family room, utility room, six double bedrooms four bathrooms and triple garage.
KEY FEATURES
• Prestigous Litle Aston Park Address
• Open plan kitchen
• Generous plot
• Three car garage
• Good size driveway
After an impressive upgrade, the new Taycan now offers adaptive air suspension and up to 1,035 PS of instant power. Being all-electric it also makes a sound choice for a company car. If purchased through your business, you could enjoy 100% first year allowance with 2% BIK contribution, ULEZ exemption, and a business-friendly range of over 400 miles*. Contact Porsche Centre Solihull to book a test drive^ or scan the code.
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Autumn Sale Now On
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Your BRINGUNIQUE TO Vision LIFE
Based in the West Midlands, we specialise in creating luxurious, tailored interiors for residential and commercial spaces.
From concept to completion, every detail is thoughtfully curated to reflect your unique style and needs. Whether you seek a complete home transformation or a breathtaking commercial space, our experienced designers bring elegance, sophistication, and a personal touch to every project.
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When Louise and Vince Brown were house hunting back in 2009, they knew the exact location they wanted to live in, but they couldn’t find the perfect house. Then they stumbled across an overgrown bungalow that ticked none of their boxes but just felt right. They snapped the property up immediately and five years later find themselves knee deep in a renovation project that they admit has become much bigger than they ever expected. We spoke to Louise to find out all about the transformation.
Starting with a dream
“It was a really small rundown bungalow with a really ugly, massive fish pond and it was awful. We walked up the drive and it just instantly felt right, it’s just the weirdest thing, but never at that point did I think we were going to knock it down and take it to the ground and do what we did.”
This isn’t their first restoration rodeo, as they also worked on their first home, but to a lesser extent. “The first one was a lot easier! I’m winging it a bit.”
While Louise doesn’t have much experience when it comes to restoration projects, Vince works in the construction industry, giving him access to all the tradespeople and materials they needed to get things done properly. Despite that, they didn’t need too much help with their home.
“He’s done a lot of it himself. Obviously, we had the builders in to do the building, the rendering, all of that, but Vince has actually done so much himself. Obviously the electricians and painting and decorating and all that, The garden room we’re doing at the moment, he’s done that single-handedly himself. When he gets the time, he’s very good.”
The challenges along the way
And there have been a few wobbles along the way too. “We’ve had a few different designs with the house and to get what we’ve got, we had to dig really deep. At one point I remember standing about a meter down and looking up at the neighbour’s house and we were just stood in this mud and I said to Vince what the heck have we done?
Planning took longer than we expected, approximately three years; “It’s quite overwhelming when you do a house that size thinking how you’re going to do everything.”
A home they can love
Despite the challenges, the house is starting to take shape and Louise is really enjoying the results of their hard work. “I do love
the garden. In the evening you can just go in the garden and it’s so quiet; it’s beautiful. The garden is like a labour of love – I’m sort of learning as I go on that. It’s not to everyone’s taste – a lot of people do comment saying too much concrete, too many slabs, but it works for us.
“We’ve got a big kitchen diner with the big island, with the table and a big TV. It’s a great social space. It’s nice that you come into the front door and you’ve got that big space and big window that lets loads of light in.
“We’ve still got loads to do, don’t be thinking it’s all finished because it’s really not! The spare bedroom is currently being decorated so that will be ready for guests very soon!”
And she’s documented the whole journey on Instagram. “I went on there for inspiration and saw that some people did it and so I just put a few things on there. Back in the day I’d just put one picture on there and it developed. One reel went crazy which was great but don’t be fooled, running a social media account takes time and effort and a lot of work. Don’t get me wrong, I get to work with some great brands, but you do have to put the effort in.”
Louise doesn’t see any more renovation projects in her future, despite Vince’s enthusiasm: “But for the moment, we’re looking forward to enjoying our dream home we’ve created”
Find Louise on Instagram at: renovating_project_66
Louise’s labour of love
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Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer (LFBC) was established in 2000 by Veronica Kumeta and the late Sue Macmaster after their friend Carol Knaggs was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite their own battles with cancer, Sue and Carol’s legacy lives on through LFBC, which has supported hundreds of men and women for more than two decades.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the UK, with nearly 55,000 diagnosed annually—equivalent to one every 10 minutes. LFBC is dedicated to making a difference through initiatives like Hug-in-a-Bag, which has delivered over 4,750 bags filled with
comforting items to patients across 27 Midlands hospitals, all free of charge thanks to the generosity of our supporters.
Breast cancer affects one in eight women in the UK, and risk increases with age, with 80% of cases occurring in women over 50. LFBC’s work is crucial in providing emotional and practical support during these challenging times. As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, your support can help us continue our mission. Donations directly fund our efforts to bring comfort and hope to those facing this difficult journey.
To support our cause or make a donation, please reach out to us at info@lfbc.org.uk or visit our website below.
How to elevate your celebrationsHalloween
It’s that time of year again, when we celebrate all things spooky! If you’re planning a Halloween party but you’d rather skip all the tacky decorations and do it in style, read on for our luxury spooky guide!
WEAR
Avoid cheap, flammable Halloween costumes and opt for one-of-a-kind pieces that ensure nobody else turns up in the same outfit as you. This might mean you have to think a little outside of the box about where you buy your costume.
Try online sites like Etsy, where you’ll find unique handmade outfits. Of course, as with any online marketplace, you’ll need to check the reviews of anyone you buy from to ensure you’re buying a good quality item. But this is the best way to find something original and you’ll be helping a small business too.
If you’ve got a little more time to plan, why not get something bespoke?
Check out Molly Limpet’s Theatrical Emporium Ltd in Sheffield, Forever Entertainment in Birmingham or head to London to get something special from Prangsta Costumiers. Go that extra mile for your outfit and you’ll be sure to stand out!
DECORATE
The decorations are potentially more important than your outfit, since you want to give luxury Halloween vibes while avoiding the mainstream decor that adorns the high street at this time of year.
Start by getting the colour theme right – you want dark, autumnal shades of brown, purple and burnt orange to set the scene. Then you can accentuate this with large crystals like obsidian, known for its protective and balancing qualities, orange calcite, which gives pumpkin vibes, and clear quartz, which takes energy from surrounding crystals to amplify their effect. If you can find these crystals carved into a skull shape, so much the better!
Keep the lights off and illuminate your home with some safely and strategically placed candles. You’ll find some gorgeous options at www. swealthy.co.uk. Make sure they are in lanterns, or placed out of the way of guests who might accidentally knock them over, especially once the drinks are flowing!
Create a spooky forest area with lots of black tree ornaments and creepy forest animals – make sure to throw in a black cat too! Again, Etsy will be helpful for this, but if there are any department stores near you with their Christmas decorations out already, you might be able to find a few trees there. If they’re not black, you can easily spray them the right colour.
DRINKS
A classy party needs cocktails and there are some fantastic options when it comes to spooky themes.
Get the party started with a Corpse Reviver, a potent blend of cognac, calvados and red vermouth.
Then impress your guests with a Pumpkin Spice Margarita, a delicious mix of Cointreau, lemon juice, lime juice, tequila and pumpkin puree.
Make a Bloody Rum Punch with white rum, Triple Sec, red wine, lime juice and sugar syup, with a few slices of fruit floating around to ensure guests can always help themselves to a drink.
And then finish the event with a Rotten Pumpkin, which mixes Black Sambuca and orange juice.
Need to offer a shot? A Frisky Witch is equal parts Black Sambuca and vodka! You can find details of how to make these drinks at makemeacocktail.com.
The most important part about Halloween is that it should be fun – if a cheap plastic skeleton or a badly carved pumpkin finds its way into a corner, embrace the silliness! Because once Halloween’s done, it’s all about Christmas!
What’s on?
The weather is starting to turn but there’s still so much to see and do in the Midlands over the next two months. Which events will catch your eye?
OCTOBER
3rd – 5th
BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET – LUNA AT THE BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME
A story of female empowerment, Luna follows five pioneering women from Birmingham, each one interpreted via a different choreographer. There’s drama, there’s darkness and there’s light – everything you could possibly hope for in a ballet.
This moving performance is at the Birmingham Hippodrome for three nights only. Tickets start at £20 but they are selling fast, so book yours now. www.birminghamhippodrome.com
5th
AL MURRAY: GUV ISLAND AT WARWICK ARTS CENTRE
The famous Pub Landlord is back with another tour! Prepare to be offended and humored all at once, in the lovely Warwick Arts Centre. If you need a belly laugh, this is the event for you! Tickets start at £35. www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
9th – 12th
ROBIN HOOD BEER AND CIDER FESTIVAL AT NOTTINGHAMSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET CLUB
There’s lots of high-quality brewers in Nottinghamshire and they all come together at this four-day event so you can sample the best from them all. Expect to enjoy beers and ciders from local businesses such as Lincoln Green, Thornbridge and Nottingham Brewery, to name a few, and there will be live music to ensure a fun and lively atmosphere.
You can buy tickets for one of the days or a season ticket that gives you access to all of the days. And Saturday night is party night, so expect lots of energetic antics that day! www.trentbridge.co.uk/robin-hood-beer-and-cider-festival.html
20th
WEDDING OPEN DAY AT COOMBE ABBEY HOTEL, WARWICKSHIRE
Get inspired at this wonderful wedding event at Coombe Abbey. With over 50 exhibitors to discover, this is perfect for brides-to-be to find out what is possible for their big day. And set against the backdrop of this beautiful hotel, it’s the ideal place to plan your dream day. Plus, entry is free! www.coombeabbey.com
31st
SYMPHONIC SESSIONS: HALLOWEEN WITH THE CBSO
A spooky soundtrack to your Halloween evening awaits with the CBSO at Hockley Social Club. Playing alongside street food stalls and cocktail bars, the orchestra is led by experienced conductor Kazuki Yamada. When they’ve finished playing there will be DJs to keep the party going! www.cbso.co.uk
NOVEMBER
5th – 9th
CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG AT THE CURVE THEATRE, LEICESTER
There’s always room in the diary for this classic musical! Sit back and relax as stars like Adam Garcia, Liam Fox and The Vivienne take to the stage to tell us the story of a magical car and the evil child-catcher. There will be all kinds of special effects, including fog, strobe lights and replica weaponry so buckle up as you head off on the adventure of a lifetime!
Tickets start at just £10, so get yours now. www.curveonline.co.uk
15th
RUSSELL KANE: HYPERACTIVE AT THE BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME
Passing through Birmingham on his brand new UK tour, Russell Kane is back to make us all laugh with his high-energy antics. Expect ranting,
walking and absolute chaos as Kane takes the stage, and be prepared to laugh, a lot!
Tickets for his one night performance start at £34 and attendees must be aged 14 and over, due to potentially adult themes.
www.birminghamhippodrome.com
15th
KIRI PRITCHARD-MCLEAN – PEACOCK AT THE STRATFORD PLAY HOUSE
Expect a lot of laughs at this comedy show from Kiri Pritchard McLean. Star of Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You and QI, she has created her funniest show to date and she gets quite personal (attendees should be 15+!)
Tickets from £14.
www.stratfordplay.co.uk
15th – 17th
MIND BODY SPIRIT FESTIVAL AT THE NEC BIRMINGHAM
A celebration of wellness awaits you, with workshops, yoga sessions and meditations amongst some of the immersive events. Hall 8 will be filled with exhibitors displaying the latest wellness tips, tricks and products, so you can shop to your heart’s content, knowing that every penny is another towards your health.
Ever wanted to know what colour your aura is? Wondered what cacao is? Or been curious about the benefits of mantra dance? This is the place you need to be! Tickets start at £16.50 and include most of the activities on offer.
www.thenec.co.uk
24th
24th November
LINOCUT CHRISTMAS CARDS WORKSHOP AT WINTERBOURNE HOUSE AND GARDEN
Learn a new skill just in time for Christmas with this Linocut Christmas Cards workshop. With expert guidance you can create some beautiful metallic printed Christmas cards to gift to your friends and family. And once you’ve got the knowledge, you’ll be able to do the same year after year, making your cards an extra special touch to the festive season.
Tickets are £67.50 for the day-long workshop. www.winterbourne.org.uk
Want your event to appear in a future edition? Email magazine@swealthy.co.uk and we’ll be in touch
Best bonfire night celebrations
Trying to decide where to watch fireworks with the family this year? Here’s a round-up of some of the best events in the area to help whittle down your selection.
1st November
BONFIRE NIGHT FESTIVAL AT ALCESTER RUGBY CLUB
With festivities kicking off at 6pm, this family friendly event includes hot food, live music and games that everyone can get involved in. Plus, there’s a fairground and multiple bars to keep you hydrated. The firework and music show starts at 7.20pm. www.alcesterrfc.rfu.clu
1st November
BONFIRE NIGHT AT THE ENGINE YARD BELVOIR
There’s something extra special about watching fireworks from the castle grounds. This annual event is welcoming guests from 5pm and lighting the bonfire at 6.30pm. Fireworks are from 8pm. The Fuel Tank will be providing comfort food to warm you up and the shops will all be open so you can get a head-start on your Christmas shopping. www.belvoircastle.com
1st November
FIREWORKS DISPLAY, LICHFIELD GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
With gates opening at 6pm, you can expect a wonderful night of firework festivities. As well as the incredible firework display, you’ll be entertained with bouncy castles, stilt walkers and face painting, for a night that will delight the whole family. Fireworks are at 7.30 and gates close at 9. Tickets are sold by the car-load, at £30 each. www.lichfieldgolfandcountryclub.com
2nd November
BONFIRE NIGHT AT THE ANGEL, PERSHORE
Bonfire night is always a popular event at The Angel. This year, gates open at 5pm and the bonfire will be lit at 6pm, with fireworks from 7.30pm. In between, guests will be treated to entertainment from Mel and Him and Come up and See Me. There will also be food and drink. Tickets are £8 for adults and £5 for children. Or, get a VIP package, including a premium view and a meal for £25. www.angelpershore.co.uk
2nd November
BONFIRE AND FIREWORK SPECTACULAR AT ALDERFORD LAKE
The bonfire will already be lit when the gates open to this event at 5pm. There will be a funfair to enjoy, live music from local artists and food and drink stalls to help warm you up. There are two firework displays over the evening – a quieter display at 7pm, which is great for sound-sensitive children, and a main display at 8pm. www.alderford.com
8th-10th November
ULTIMATE FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR AT ALTON TOWERS, STOKE ON TRENT
Rounding off the end of another busy theme park season, Alton Towers’ Ultimate Fireworks Spectacular combines oohs and aahs with rides and family fun. The theme park stays open late on these three days so you can ride rollercoasters in the dark before watching one of the best fireworks displays in the UK! www.altontowers.com
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