Vanilla Norwich April/May 20

A P R I L / M AY 2 0 2 0

I’M FREE TAKE ME! KEEP ME!

hello Spring!

We've miss ed you!

LOVE YOUR LOCALS ♥♥♥♥♥

YOUR MUST-HAVE GUIDE TO LOCAL CITY LIVING

NORWICH EDITION

HAUNTINGLY GOOD AT 4.5% & 0.5% ABV! Adnams Ghost Ship is a vibrant, refreshing pale ale full of bright citrus aromas and flavours from citra, chinook and cascade hops.

Made from East Anglian malted barley. It’s so good, it’s spooky... adnams

FASHION WIN!

HOMES

11 SEASON 13 NEW BOUQUETS FOR

49 HOME STUFF 52 EXTERIOR PAINT

Five key piecesAND for VALENTINE’S MOTHER’S Spring 2020DAY

© SYLVAINE POITAU

Two lovely bouquets 13 LEARN TO LOUNGE from Myrtle & Mint for The coolest loungewear your loved one on the high street 36 SEE STEPS LIVE! 16 HOMEWORKING Tickets for two at O2 Ways to keep looking GIFTS good when you’re 9 HER VALENTINE working from home

12 VALENTINE 18 HIS SPRING COLOUR 32the LOVE JEWELLERY for chaps 34 NICE MOTHERS DAY 21 & EASY Easy-to-wear, from FASHION The Style Show team

The best paint to use and how to do it

52 TAXIDERMY...

just became cool again

Vanilla...

13

16

PEOPLE PEOPLE (Yes, this

49

54

66 ALDOUS ICE-CREAM

A Norfolk tradition going strong

67 SALAD DAYS

The Norfolk Veg Box business keeping up with demand

BUSINESS How to become a

Ladies leading the 1:1 Dietare Consultant way with start-ups

41 LOVELY breaking newSTUFF ground 54 HOUSE OF 35 JENNI FALCONER

& FABRICS

The Cellar House in Eaton

13 WOMEN 34 BE YOUR MEAN OWN BOSS

WELLBEING Oakland Hall Nursery

58 NU FURNISHINGS

63 FOOD STUFF 65 REVIEW

Learn to you lookthrough on the Guiding sidehouse of life... fibright rst-time buying

DAY NURSERY

OVER PAINT

Don’t throw it, use it!

FOOD

(Yes, could this be you!)

22 GROWING STRONG could be you!)

36 HOME SCHOOLING 14 BUSINESS 38 THE LANES COACHING EXPLAINED Still openFIVE-STAR for business 16 THE

57 IDEAS FOR LEFT

Garden furniture you can snooze in!

Vanilla’s sneak at the Spring offerings

24 PARTY wedding on&a PROM budget 26 NORFOLK 50 THE REASONS TO HARE BE CHEERFUL 32 PROBLEM SOLVED

Ideas for the smallest room in the house

60 AND RELAX...

18 LOOKBOOK 29 2014 JEWELLERY

Norwich Market’s one 14 VILLAGE AFFAIR big happy family How to get a glam

54 STYLE FILE

69 JORGES-TO-GO

Portuguese restaurant switches to takeaway

70 RECIPE

52

70

Gressingham Duck recipe for Easter

WHAT’S ON

AESTHETICS

71 Your guide to local

36 PROBLEM 45 SLIMMINGSOLVED WORLD

REGULARS

We meet Heart Vanilla visits the FM’s Aylsham Sunday morning DJ beauty clinic Inheritance rights of an Meet your local Norwich unmarried partner network

39 46 WHICH BEAUTYSCHOOL? TIPS

How questions to choose answered the right Your April/May 2020 Vanilla

entertainment...

73 STOCKISTS 74 THE LAST WORD Mike Read, landscape gardener and designer

3

HELLO!

A P R I L / M AY 2 0 2 0

I’M FREE TAKE ME! KEEP ME!

hello Spring!

We've missed you!

LOVE YOUR LOCALS ♥♥♥♥♥

YOUR MUST-HAVE GUIDE TO LOCAL CITY LIVING

Keep Calm & Carry On! We’re in uncharted territory right now and understand everyone is feeling unsettled. We’re all looking for ways we can help, however small. So whether you’re working from home, attempting to keep your family entertained or trying to maintain a bit of normality, we’ve gathered together some of the best things we’ve spotted recently to help you enjoy the four walls you know best with our latest issue of VANILLA. LOOKING AHEAD... We have a vibrant city full of independents but many of our local businesses will be suffering right now. We want them all to survive so please support them in any way you can... and when we are all allowed out again pop in and say “hello”!

REMEMBER TO LOVE YOUR LOCALS!

the Vanilla team x Reproduction of images and artwork is forbidden. All information is believed to be correct at time of going to press. Vanilla Magazine and East Coast Publishing Ltd cannot accept liability or responsibilty for intellectual copyright infringement, inaccuracies or ommisions.

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NORWICH EDITION

Editorial Laura Hall Advertising Nicola Secker-Bligh Production & Distribution Michelle Nicoll Contributors Lucy Ohsten, Sylvaine Poitau, Joelle Fordham Jeff Jacobs and Holly Pagani Thanks to All our readers, supporters and advertisers NUMBER 35 April /May 2020 Vanilla is published February, April, June, August, October and December.

Cover photograph © River Island Printed by Micropress Ltd. Distributed by Blue Tree Distribution Produced by East Coast Publishing Limited Advertising Tel: 07730 436426 nicky@vanilla-magazine.co.uk Editorial Tel: 07766 201930 editorial@vanilla-magazine.co.uk www.vanilla-magazine.co.uk

What’s On HHHHH

‘All hip hop life is here’ Independent

The Birthday Party Tue 12 - Sat 16 May

Breakin’ Convention Fri 29 & Sat 30 May

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie Mon 1 - Sat 6 Jun ‘It makes you want to cheer’ The Times

Sheila’s Island Tue 9 - Sat 13 Jun

English Youth Ballet: Swan Lake Fri 19 & Sat 20 Jun

Malory Towers Tue 23 - Sat 27 Jun

01603 630 000 norwichtheatre.org

RIVERSIDE ENTERTAINMENT RIVERSIDE ENTERTAINMENT EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND FUN, ENTERTAINMENT AND FUN, DAY OR NIGHT DAY OR NIGHT With an IMAX cinema, With an IMAX cinema, selection of great selection of great restaurants, state of restaurants, state of the art bowling bowling alley alley the art and trampoline park. park. and trampoline Located close to to the the Located close train station. train station.

riversidenorwich.co.uk riversidenorwich.co.uk

Riverside Entertainment Centre, Koblenz Avenue, Norwich NR1 1WT Riverside Entertainment Centre, Koblenz Avenue, Norwich NR1 1WT

NEWS COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER The team at VisitNorwich have launched a Community Hub on the VisitNorwich website to showcase what local businesses are able to offer at this time.

This, of course, is work in progress.

They’ll also share news, insights and inspiration about Norwich and how communities are supporting one another. ● visitnorwich.co.uk/community-hub/

newsonthestreet ....and on the Norwich Grapevine THEATRE REACHES OUT

Norwich Theatre chief executive, Stephen Crocker, has appealed to loyal theatregoers to help the organisation through the difficulties it will face with the closure of its three venues across the city during the Coronavirus crisis.

He has asked them to consider donating the cost of their ticket on cancelled shows, rather than asking for a refund or credit note, to help mitigate the loss of income from programmed shows as well as from the popular bars and restaurants at the Theatre Royal, Playhouse and Stage Two. Mr Crocker said: “Our audiences and local community are the lifeblood of Norwich Theatre’s three venues. We are extremely grateful for their loyalty and dedication and for the support they have been giving us over many years.

“As a registered charity with no public subsidy, we rely on ticket sales for 80% of our income and the bars and restaurants in our buildings for a further 15%.”

Supporting the campaign is easy to do – where shows are cancelled at Theatre Royal, bookers will receive an email which will ask them whether they would like a refund, a credit to their account or if they would like to donate the value of their tickets. The Box Office team then do the rest.

April/May 2020 Vanilla

SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVALS Some of the East Anglian Summer festivals are still planning to go ahead and others have rescheduled.

Here’s the latest...

RESCHEDULED TO 4-6 SEPTEMBER

RED ROOSTER at Euston Hall Originally, due to take place at the end of May, Red Rooster will go ahead with the same line-up in early September.

Embracing the sounds and lifestyle of the American Deep South, Red Rooster aims to become the event for fans of Rhythm and Blues, Americana, Soul, Roots and Country music.

16-19 JULY

JARROLD CLOSED... FOR NOW The 250-year-old Jarrold business has closed all of its shops until further notice due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Jarrold runs a five-floor department store in Norwich city centre and six other shops throughout Norfolk.

It said the decision to close its buildings and online business on Monday afternoon was taken with a “heavy heart” but was “the right thing to do”.

The company was founded in Woodbridge, Suffolk in 1770, moved to Norwich in 1823 and employs more than 450 people.

A Jarrold spokesperson said: “We have been in business for 250 years, in good times and bad. But these aren’t normal times and we find ourselves in the unique situation where closing our doors is the right thing to do.”

LATITUDE at Henham Park As we go to press, Latitude is still hopeful to be going ahead. The 15th edition is packed with great acts: headlining Friday, Haim; Saturday, Liam Gallagher; Sunday, The Chemical Brothers, Snow Patrol and Keane.

21-23 AUGUST

FOLK EAST at Glemham Hall FolkEast is back for the ninth time, proving why it is nothing like other music festivals. This year it has an impressive line-up – acts announced so far, include Afro Celt Sound System, Catrin Finch & Seckou Keita, Gigspanner Big Band with more to follow!

7

strattons hotel ROOMS & SELF CATERING

CoCoes café/deli

APRIL events Celebrating 30 years of Strattons Traditional Afternoon Tea £18.50pp

MAY events Peter Rabbit themed Traditional Afternoon Tea £18.50pp

Bottomless Brunch Club Monday 13th £26pp (or £18pp without bottomless!)

JUNE events Peter Rabbit themed Traditional Afternoon Tea £18.50pp

after

five

Father’s Day Bottomless Brunch Club Sunday 21st £26pp (or £18pp without bottomless!)

JULY events The Tiger Who Came To Tea themed Traditional Afternoon Tea £18.50pp

L i f e s t y L e /i n t e r i o r s

eatery

AUGUST events The Tiger Who Came To Tea themed Traditional Afternoon Tea £18.50pp Bottomless Brunch Club Monday 31st £26pp (or £18pp without bottomless!)

SEPTEMBER events Gruffalo themed Traditional Afternoon Tea £18.50pp OCTOBER events Gruffalo themed Traditional Afternoon Tea £18.50pp

boutique luxurious classic contemporary heart of norfolk afterfive eatery afternoon tea cocoes café deli self catering lifestyle shop ash close swaffham norfolk pe37 7nh 01760 723845 enquiries@strattonshotel.com www.strattonshotel.com Luxury without sacrifice to the environment

SHOPPING

London cake tin £17.99 Roys of Wroxham online

Health Journal The Ultimate 12 Week Health Journal – self accountability to help create the best version of you! £20 LadiesThatPlan.com

White & Light Easter egg £29 Hotel du Chocolat online

Hello Sunshine neon sign £59.99 Lights4Fun Lemon squeezer £6 Sainsbury's Home

Hot

Pittards gloves £40 The Tannery online

Spring ✿ Stuff

✿

Easter nest decoration £15 John Lewis

Smartphone case £8 The Other Curator

Easter Luxe biscuit tin £45 Order online at Biscuiteers Baking

Embroidered slippers £26 The Other Curator Terrida toiletry bag £79 The Tannery online

April/May 2020 Vanilla

Egg cup £4.50 John Lewis

See p73 for stockist’s details

Secrid mini wallet £55 The Tannery online

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Proud to be part of this community through 2 world wars, 9 monarchs and over 60 prime ministers. Our very best wishes to all of our Colleagues, Customers, Suppliers and Partners. Together we will get through this.

JARROLD.CO.UK Don’t forget we have 1000s of products online which can be delivered to your home

FASHION

FIVE KEY FASHION ITEMS FOR SPRING 2020

AllSaints Riley leather biker jacket £318 Jarrold

THE STATEMENT SHIRT

A good shirt is one of your must-have pieces for spring and summer. This one from Vilagallo at Jarrold is perfect worn with jeans or trousers.

LEATHER JACKET

Annabelle shoe £179 Jarrold

Dover shirt £99 Jarrold

A leather jacket is a timeless item in your wardrobe. Perfect for wearing now and as a cover-up on cool summer evenings, the leather jacket can pull your look together in an instant. As we have our trusty black one already, this year we are looking at a jacket in a more neutral hue, which makes it perfect when worn over a summer dress or can add a stylish look when worn with black.

Levi’s 511 slim jeans £85 Jarrold Weekend Max Mara Brusson skirt £226 Jarrold

THE JEANS

BRIGHT COLOUR

Bright colours are a big trend for this season, but if you don’t like wearing colour why not add a touch of this look through your accessories? These pumps from Carl Scarpa at Jarrold will take you from work to an evening out.

April/May 2020 Vanilla

Skinny jeans are starting to fade and be replaced with more baggier jean styles. If you are not ready to put on your bootleg or Mom jeans, a pair of straight cuts will give you the appearance of the skinny, but are so much more comfortable!

THE ’CHINO’ MIDI SKIRT

Whilst floaty midi skirts are still having a fashion moment, more structured styles are starting to come in this season. The ‘Chino’ skirt – made from the same material as a pair of chinos – is smart enough for the office but also casual enough to wear at the weekend with a pair of trainers and a jumper or t-shirt.

11

NORWICH HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AGED 3 TO 18

Proud to be Independent

GIRLS’ SCHOOL OF THE YEAR 2019/20

Contact us today to book a tour of our outstanding school Visit our website: www.norwichhigh.gdst.net Call us: 01603 453 265 Email us: admissions@nor.gdst.net Limited places for September 2020 entry

Part of the

Vanilla half l/scape_Layout 1 12/01/2020 11:27 Page 24

ATOUCH OF CLASS fromCecilAmey

N O RW I C H AT T L E B O R O U G H aylsH A M D E R E H A M H A L E SW O RT H H A R L E S T O N w r ox h a m WAT T O N W Y M O N D H A M

C ECI L A MEY

Looking Good! c ec i l a m ey.c o. u k

FASHION

Haven't you heard?

Staying in is the new going out! And while it’s still nice to dress up as part of a ‘normal’ routine, there’s no denying the mood-boosting factor of cosy clothes...

LEARN TO LOUNGE Ombre top £10 Ombre leggings £10 Primark

April/May 2020 Vanilla

Loungewear online at Matalan

Time To Dream floral print trouser set £55 Oliver Bonas

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FASHION

Good Move gilet £25 Jacket £29.50 Sports bra £15 Go Train leggings £29.50 Shoes £45 all at M&S

Soft touch star print PJ set £40 Figleaves

we ❤ lounging

See p73 for stockist’s details

Trousers £22.99 Hoody £17.99 Jacket £29.99 New Look

Crop £12 Joggers £20 Miss Selfridge

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Vanilla April/May 2020

LE Y T S E C A R B M E different with your eyewear

Dare to be

Crop £12 Joggers £20 Miss Selfridge

Joggers £15.99 Hoody £17.99 Jacket £32.99 New Look

Top £6 Bottoms £10 Primark

I’ve often wondered why people in the UK wear such drab glasses.

I look around and all I see is samey shapes and colours but with a different designer label on them. It can’t be that we’re not interested in fashion. Look at this magazine, full of the latest, quality and high fashion clothes and accessories. You are reading and looking at this magazine, you must be interested.

So what is going on?

Choice, or to be more precise, lack of choice.

UK opticians all tend to stock the same brands and ranges, so very dull.

Each year I go to the

largest frame trade show in the world, MIDO. The choice and ranges available are mind blowing.

When I asked the designers why they didn’t sell them in the UK they all told me because the UK market is so dull!

So we’ve gone directly to them and imported ranges only available at Oculus. Styles that are beautiful, fun and stylish to wear. Just as when buying clothes, trying on different styles is fun. So we encourage people to come in and try them, experiment with different shapes and colours, it is fun!

When you are allowed out, come and see us in Norwich, we are opposite John Lewis and we look forward to welcoming you with a cup of tea or coffee.

Jeff @ Oculus

16 All Saints Green, Norwich NR1 3NA 01603 763764 Check out our new website www.oculusnorwich.co.uk

 April/May 2020 Vanilla

Follow us on facebook and instagram

FASHION

FASHION STYLIST working ing from h ome THE LOUNGE SUIT Luxury loungewear that you can change into in the morning is just as comfortable as your PJs but feels smarter for getting your mind set into work.

Who would’ve thought that many of us would be working from home? It makes our work wardrobe look a little redundant. But before you fall into the trap of being in your pyjamas all day, putting together a home working wardrobe can help with your wellbeing, explains Jarrold personal stylists Florrie and Katy.

Deciding what to wear that is appropriate for work can be a challenge at the best of times.

So now that many of us are working from home it is easy to let that decorum slip and end up slouching around in your PJs all day. This is all very well; it’s comfortable and easy, as you can have a lie in every morning rather than rushing to get ready for the commute. However, it could start to have an effect on your wellbeing.

Having the routine of getting showered and dressed is a ritual that helps you feel ready for the day ahead. It can help lift your mood, make you feel more productive and it can instantly wake you up. With this is mind here is our guide to your home working wardrobe...

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Scotch and Soda Jumpsuit £199.95 Jarrold

Calvin Klein Modern Cotton Lounge Zip Up Hoodie £65 Jarrold

Vero Moda Alexa Wide Leg Jeans £45 Jarrold

Calvin Klein Modern Cotton Lounge Joggers £55 Jarrold

THE JUMPSUIT We all must have that all-in-one hanging in our wardrobe. And if yours is quite smart it can look good for when you need to make that video conference call, but it’s comfortable enough to wear round your house.

THE WIDE LEG JEANS Wider leg jeans will be a big trend come Summer (when hopefully we will all be through this) and they are comfy for home working as well as smart, so a pair of these are probably worth the investment now.

FitFlop wedge slides £110

Superga trainers £80

Superga jaguar trainers £60

Vanilla April/May 2020

FASHION

See p81 for stockist’s details

French Connection Asha Scarf Print Handkerchief Dress £125 Jarrold

April/May 2020 Vanilla

THE DRESS Sometimes just wearing a dress aroud the house can lift your spirits! Have you seen that episode in Friends where Monica, Rachel and Phoebe all put on wedding dresses?

We’re not saying go that crazy, but a printed or colourful number will improve your mood.

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FASHION

Seidensticker & Viyella shirts from £69 Robert Oliver Menswear Redpoint cotton shorts £49.99 Robert Oliver Menswear

SPRING COLOUR Skinny single breasted suit jacket £65 River Island

for him...

Seidensticker shirt £69 Robert Oliver Menswear

See p73 for stockist’s details

Pocket front jacket £55 T-shirt £20 Swim shorts £18 River Island Bomber jacket £50 River Island

Geo mix shirt £19.50 M&S

Furyyy espadrills £409 Dune

Budgie loafers £85 Dune

Garbstore shirt £150 John Lewis

E YES RIGHT ! Bright frames from Wolf – prices start from £99.99 at Cecil Amey 18

Vanilla April/May 2020

RENT A CHAIR AT MAX GIAMMELLO’S EXCLUSIVE HAIR SALON Why pay double when you can take advantage of our offer and save £6000 per year?

Want to work at a high end hair salon?

And learn the skills to create on trend styles with Max at his Ber St salon?

Only 6 PLACES LEFT for aspiring and experienced hairdressers

Whether you’re starting out or taking the next step on your hairstyle journey – Max Giammello gives you the skills you need.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity Call now for no obligation chat T: 01603 761188 E: info@maxgiammellohair.co.uk

Daily rent only £25 PER DAY... one of the lowest in Norwich DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS as a career hairstyling professional

HAIR & BEAUTY

MMELLO ess Coach IA G X A M @ Y BEAUT ian & Welln ailable + Dietic

nts now avFacebook for details Beauty treatme See

7416

e 7506

WE ARE NOW OFFERING VIRTUAL STYLING & FREE POSTAGE!

In these uncertain times, The Style Show has adapted accordingly and are now offering Private Personal Shopping and Facetime one-to-one stylings with your very own assigned Style Consultant.

Shop online at our new eBoutique for a collection of clothing designed to fit your style rules and difficult to find elsewhere! Clothing to figure flatter and make you feel amazing.

Individual, affordable and chosen to reveal the you, you never knew!

Postage is free and we do home deliveries (respecting social distancing guidelines) within the Norwich area.

Just get in touch for our help Visit us at www.styleshow.co.uk or our facebook page.

Email enquiries@styleshow.co.uk or call 07487 796853 for more information.

FASHION

Stehmann trousers £59.99

Yerse maxi dress £85

Latte Spring jacket £99.99 (also in tan)

NICE & EASY

Latte linen jacket £99.99 matching cullottes £99.99

Flattering and easy-to-wear fashion from The Style Show Spring/Summer collections

Latte block dress £99.99

April/May 2020 Vanilla

Yerse nautical maxi skirt £48.99

Latte animal print shirt dress £99.99

Yerse split maxi skirt £59.99

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FASHION

The market is like one big happy family and we all try to help each other when we can.

work together to give the stall another interesting dimension. The market is like one big happy family and we all try to help each other when we can. It’s a wonderful community.”

Caryn Louis, The Other Curator and ‘Mr. Prickly’ Tony Hall

Growing strong on the market!

T

HE OTHER CURATOR has brought a quirky, Bohemian sense of style to Norwich Market over the past three years, with its unique range of beautiful and colourful clothing, homewares and jewellery from around the world.

Owner Caryn Louis has her own intriguing sense of style, and like most of the things she sells, she’s a one off!

Keen to expand her growing business, she has recently joined forces with her friend Tony Hall, who has now joined her on her stall, selling his indoor gardens created from cacti and succulents.

In return he will be working on the stall for two days of the week.

“I am so excited to have Tony working with me,” Caryn says. “We affectionately call him Mr Prickly, for obvious reasons! He’s a great friend, a very good businessman and it makes perfect sense for us to

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● In usual circumstances, The Other Curator is open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 5pm at stalls 138 and 139 at the top of the market. www.theothercurator.co.uk

Vanilla April/May 2020

© SYLVAINE POITAU

T

ONY HALL was born in Norwich and moved back to the city six years ago after 30 years’ travelling around the world as a private chef, cooking for royalty and celebrities, including Queen drummer Roger Taylor.

“I also work as a private chef so the idea of selling my creations on Caryn’s stall In return for two days help a week is the perfect opportunity for me,” says Tony. “I had a pop-up stall on the market last Summer, and it was so successful that I was invited to take a permanent pitch, but I couldn’t commit to it all the time. So of course I jumped at the chance to work with Caryn, it’s a perfect fit for both of us and we can help each other to grow. I had a fantastic time on the market last year, so it’s great to be back.

“Caryn and I both have interesting quirky businesses. I travel around Norfolk finding interesting containers and materials to design my mini gardens, and my plants are all sourced locally.

I particularly love customers to bring a special container to the stall for me to fill with plants.”

It’s no wonder Norwich Market scooped the 2019 ‘best large outdoor market in the country’ award.

A great community, great stalls and people who are committed to keeping it fresh, interesting and growing strong.

The other Curator FA S H I O N • J E W E L L E R Y • D E C O R

Bursting with colour and quirky bohemian and vintage style, The Other Curator oozes creativity, expression and fun. Shopping here is an experience you won’t forget. Everywhere you turn something beautiful winks at you enticing you to come, touch, feel, try and play.

For the best selection of

Prom Dresses & Evening Gowns in Norfolk

Jubilee House, The Street, Long Stratton NR15 2XJ Daytime, evening and weekend appointments available 01508 218050 • www.partyprom.co.uk

Follow us @partyandprom

Find us at Norwich Market Stall 138/139, Market Place Norwich NR2 1ND

open: Tues-Sat 11am to late afternoon tel: 01953 860512 / 07940 377998 www.theothercurator.co.uk

theothercurator

12 - 14 Exchange Street Norwich NR2 1AT t: 01603 661600 e: info@thetannery.co.uk

www.thetannery.co.uk



HANDBAGS | BRIEFCASES | SATCHEL BAGS | BACKPACKS | LUGGAGE | SHOES | WALLETS | BELTS | GLOVES

FASHION

Hazel Hallett, Party & Prom founder

illa Van PORT RE

W

E ALL WANT TO BE the belle of the ball for that special event – a prom, summer ball, cruise, party or wedding. If there is something coming up in your calendar that calls for a touch of glamour and class, then Party & Prom in Long Stratton is the place for you.

Owner Hazel Hallett has created a boutique that offers over 500 full length evening gowns and prom dresses to choose from, and she is established as one of the biggest stockists of special occasion wear in Norfolk and Suffolk “Whatever the formal occasion, we have something to suit, and people come from all over East Anglia, and even as far afield as Kent, to buy from us. We don’t hire, but all our dresses are reasonably priced and there is something to suit every pocket.”

Hazel set up the business six years ago after struggling to find a

24

prom dress for her daughter. “Our local shops weren’t very helpful at all, or had nothing we liked, so I saw a clear gap in the market for a boutique that would offer a superb range of stylish and great quality evening wear, and a friendly personal service to go with it.

“Buying a beautiful evening gown should be a pleasure, stressfree and never rushed. We open by appointment only, setting aside an hour or so for the customer to try on dresses in complete privacy, with no other customers in the shop. It’s a relaxed and fun experience, and we are always honest, there is no pressure selling and we guarantee that the dress you choose will be stylish and flattering, whatever your shape, size or colouring. It’s about spending quality time with you, and I think that’s what makes us different.

“Many customers have a fairly fixed idea about what they want

and have done some research, but they often end up choosing a very different style. You will only find something that’s perfect for you if you try on lots of dresses. It has to make you feel glamorous and beautiful, of course, and very special. I think it’s important to keep an open mind about what suits you, you may be surprised!”

Fashions change – so what’s ‘in’ at the moment? “Stylish, figure hugging gowns are always on trend but full-skirted ‘princess’ dresses have been very popular this season along with the colour green. We also stock brands such as Pia Michi which are popular with minor celebrities, so some customers like to follow that style. Our skill is finding the perfect style of dress for every special occasion.”

T: 01508 218050. Normal business will resume soon at Party & Prom. www.partyprom.co.uk

Vanilla April/May 2020

© SYLVAINE POITAU

A TOUCH OF CLASS

Robert Oliver Menswear

2020 SPRING COLLECTIONS IN STORE NOW

Spring Offore2rfor £100

Brands include: VIYELLA MAGEE

9 each Seidensticker shirts £6

REDPOINT CLOTHING SEIDENSTICKER SHIRTS THE LABEL SUITS LACUZZO SHOES Tuesday–Friday: 9:30am – 5pm Saturday: 9:30am – 4:30pm T: 01603 661220 E: r.oliver.1@btconnect.com 238 SPROWSTON ROAD, NORWICH NR3 4HT

Visit our beautiful boutique!

SPRING/SUMMER COLLECTIONS Comfortable classic fashions with a modern twist WEDDING • CASUAL • DAYWEAR

Handbags, purses, scarves, jewellery plus a beautiful range of perfumed candles from Heart & Home

Wedding outfits from £199

✽ sizes 14-36 ✽ Open 10am-4pm Monday-Saturday

14 School Road • Drayton • Norwich • NR8 6DN 01603 866060 33 Bull Street • Holt • NR25 6HP 01263 714040

FASHION HOMES

NEW BUSINESS

Leaping into business...

The Norfolk Hare

Cornish handmade ceramic jug £29 bowl £31

Mini moose head £19.50

The Norfolk Hare owners, Stuart and Tamsin

RETAIL NEWS seems to be all gloomy at the moment, so it is a real joy when we hear about a new retail business starting up and particularly a local one! We caught up with Tam and Stuart, proud owners of The Norfolk Hare, to find out just what their story is – and more importantly what we can buy from their shop.

TELL US, HOW DID THE NORFOLK HARE BEGIN?

Well, it technically began on the 5.47am train from Diss to London

26

Liverpool Street!! We met on the train nearly five years ago now, and quickly realised that we shared a love for beautiful things (and for dogs). My mum was an inspiration for us too as she was mad about hares and always wanted to set up a shop selling lovely things; very sadly she passed away before that happened. Stuart and I have both commuted for the last few years which has given us many hours to plan how to launch our business.

We finally took the plunge just before this Christmas and it has been quite a journey since!!

AND WHAT TYPE OF PRODUCTS DO YOU SELL?

We specialise in British-made, local, artisan and international ethically sourced homewares, gifts and artworks. We particularly like sourcing unusual or slightly quirky items like our wall art animal heads, or bespoke, individually made pieces like our Cornish Sand and Sea ceramics.

Vanilla April/May 2020

FASHION HOMES

Natural lambswool throw £78

Dando brass pot £58/£38

Hurricane light £28

Casserole with lid £30/£39

Limited edition print £77

Part of the joy for us in setting this business up has been in sourcing the products, talking to the producers and artists and hearing the stories behind some of the objects. We only buy things that we really love ourselves – this might be limiting I suppose but we want to truly believe in the quality and origin of what we sell.

SO WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU?

At the moment we are an online business that is based in Diss. We are both huge fans of East Anglia,

April/May 2020 Vanilla

Game birds table lamp, shade and base £151

having lived here for most of our lives and with both our families connected to the region. Our goal is to buck the current trend and open an actual shop as soon as we can.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ITEM YOU ARE CURRENTLY SELLING?

That’s a difficult one!! I really love the quirky wire sculpted animal heads and our handmade ceramics. For Stuart, probably the artist-designed lamps and lighthouse prints.

Visit the Norfolk Hare at www.thenorfolkhare.com and please follow us on Instagram, facebook and twitter    e: hello@thenorfolkhare.com

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9 Royal Arcade, NR2 1NQ I 01603 625533 I sonkai.co.uk

SHOPPING

Flint bar pendant in gold with diamond £595 Sonkai

See p73 for stockist stockist’s ’s details

Infinity necklace £60 Pandora

Peach blossom flower snake chain slider bracelet £150 Pandora

Reed silver amethyst and diamond bracelet £230 Sonkai

HIDDEN GEMS

at a jewellers near you!

18ct yellow gold and diamond eternity ring £1,300 Sonkai

Set of three 9ct yellow gold halo rings priced from £250 Sonkai

Flint 9ct yellow gold and diamond station necklace £2360 Sonkai

Flint edge diamond ring 9ct yellow gold £1295 Sonkai

Flint diamond earrings in 9ct rose gold £630 Sonkai

love vintage style

Sapphire and Diamond 18ct white gold ring £1950 Albrow & Sons

April/May 2020 Vanilla

Peridot and Diamond 18ct yellow gold ring £1185 Albrow & Sons

Pink Sapphire and Diamond 18ct rose gold ring £1185 Albrow & Sons

Amethyst and Diamond 18ct yellow gold ring £1995 Albrow & Sons

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SHOPPING

THE GEMSTONE Vanilla MASTERS REPORT

F

amily jewellers Albrow & Sons, on All Saints Green in Norwich, is a familiar sight to anyone who knows the city. Run by brothers Richard and Harvey Albrow, the shop is an Aladdin’s Cave of antique jewellery and silver from every era, and no-one knows more about the quality and beauty of these glorious historical pieces.

One of the most exciting aspects of Albrow’s work is their expert knowledge of gems. In their state-of-the-art workshop they create the most wonderful exclusive jewellery – rings, necklaces, brooches and more – using gems with superb colour and cut. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds and intriguing, very special stones.

“Sapphires are very popular, in every colour, but recently we made a customer a platinum

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and diamond Art Deco ring with a watermelon tourmaline,” says Richard. “As its name suggests, this fabulous stone has a pink flesh colour and this one measured over six carats.

Watermelon tourmalines can also be green, yellow, orange and brown.

“We are always busy buying antique jewellery from all over the country, as we find that more

and more of our customers are looking to purchase something unusual with history that you wouldn't find on the high street.

This is what makes it so much more interesting, and gives it warmth.

“Yellow and rose gold with coloured gemstones, as well as diamonds, are becoming more and more fashionable, and this trend lends itself to antique jewellery. There is a very alluring style and romance to the different periods, from Victorian and Edwardian to Art Nouveau and Art Deco.

“I think it’s lovely that typically sentimental antique jewellery was very romantic indeed, featuring love birds, entwined hearts and cherubs. This is what makes it so special and highly sought after.”

So what jewellery is in fashion now, and what are customers looking for? Richard says: “Lately it seems customers want to trade in a collection of smaller dress jewellery they have accumulated over the years and invest in one larger high-quality piece, such as a traditional diamond ring which can be worn, enjoyed and admired all of the time.

“It’s almost impossible to predict what styles will be in demand in the years ahead, but it does seem that high-quality vintage pieces will always sell, which is why we are selling antique. It’s a proven market, built to last.” ● Albrow & Sons, 10 All Saints Green, Norwich t: 01603 622569 www.albrowjewellers.com

Vanilla April/May 2020

ALBROW & SONS LTD Family jewellers

10 ALL SAINTS GREEN • NORWICH • NORFOLK • NR1 3NA • 01603 622569 OPPOSITE JOHN LEWIS

www.albrowjewellers.co.uk

“Although each property will bring with it its own issues, the process of purchasing a property will usually run along the same lines”

Are you a first time buyer?

MY QUESTION: I would like to get on the property ladder and am looking to purchase my first home. There is so much information out there as to what is involved when buying a property and I am finding it overwhelming. How does the conveyancing process work?

32

W

HETHER YOU ARE a first time buyer or you have not sold and purchased a property in a number of years, it can sometimes be a daunting process. Although each property will bring with it its own issues, the process of purchasing a property will usually run along the same lines.

When you are buying a property, your estate agent will send all the necessary details to your nominated Solicitor.

Your Solicitor will then be able

to contact the Solicitor acting for the seller and request the contract documentation.

The seller’s Solicitor should then send: ● The contract ● The office copies (which are the deeds held electronically by the Land Registry) ● The Property Information Form ● The Fittings and Contents Form and any other relevant document to your Solicitor.

The Property Information Form is a form which provides Vanilla April/May 2020

REAL LIVES information about the property including the boundaries, utilities, building works and other common enquiries. The Fittings and Contents Form is a list of all of the fixtures in the property such as curtains and curtain rails and confirmation as to whether these are being left, being taken or will be left for an additional amount.

Your Solicitor will then apply for searches on the property which will usually include a local search, a water search and an environmental search.

Your Solicitor will also raise any specific enquiries based upon the papers received from the seller.

O

NCE THE SEARCHES have been received, enquiries replied to and your mortgage offer received (if necessary), your Solicitor will be able to send you a full report in relation to the property along with the contract to sign. Your Solicitor will also need from you, the deposit amount which will usually be 10% of the purchase price.

When you are happy to do so, your Solicitor will then exchange contracts with the seller’s Solicitors. Exchange of contracts is when you will become contractually bound to purchase the property and the seller is contractually bound to sell the property to you.

Exchange of contracts is also when a deposit is sent by your Solicitor to the seller’s Solicitors.

This deposit secures the property for you.

A completion date is also agreed at this stage. Once

April/May 2020 Vanilla

contracts have been exchanged, your Solicitor will require the balance of the purchase monies and will also liaise with your mortgage company (if necessary) to confirm the mortgage monies will be sent to your Solicitor in time for completion.

Completion is the day that the remainder of the purchase

monies are sent by your Solicitor to the seller’s Solicitor. It is also the day where you will obtain the keys to your new home and get unpacking!

Following completion, your Solicitor will then deal with registering the property in your name with the Land Registry and also filing the Stamp Duty Land Tax form with HMRC. n

We are here to help...

Our expert conveyancing team at Steeles Law are here for you every step of the way when purchasing a property. Please contact the team on realestate@steeleslaw.co.uk or 01379 652141 to begin your process or for further information.

Lawrence House, 5 St Andrews Hill, Norwich NR2 1AD

t: 01603 598000 e: info@steeleslaw.co.uk www.steeleslaw.co.uk

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WORK ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

BE YOUR OWN BOSS Be your own boss, choose your own hours, and do something that really makes a difference.

Find out how to become a 1:1 Diet Consultant

A

RE YOU a good listener?

Are you supportive? Got spare time you want to put to good use, or fancy a change of career? Answer ‘yes’ to any of these questions and you’d make a great 1:1 Diet Consultant.

14 years ago Dan was asked these questions, and said ‘yes’ to the first two but was content with his career, that was until he became a Consultant, and within ten months he quit his day job to be his own boss, full time.

Having the freedom and flexibility of being your own boss, plus the brilliant people, products and plan from The 1:1 Diet, you can choose your hours and take as much holiday as you want – sounds cool right?

Dan and Kirsty will be there to support you 100% 24/7 from starting, through training and beyond. There’s no hefty up front investment, and no limit to your potential income.

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In 2006, Dan wanted to lose weight and when all other diets failed, he turned to Cambridge (what The 1:1 Diet was called back then). As he approached the end of the weight loss part of the journey he was asked “what could you do with extra income?”

Quick as a flash he replied “go on holiday!” From that point the seed was sown, and a year after becoming a Consultant he went on holiday, to New York, armed with more spending money than he ever imagined, something that would not have been possible had he stayed in his former job.

F

OURTEEN YEARS later Dan is still loving the enjoyment and buzz from helping people to not only achieve their weight loss goals, but to maintain them. For some it is a more life changing journey

as losing weight improves their health and self esteem. Seeing clients getting excited about the changes they had dreamed of means every day is different.

Dan has helped a number of Consultants start their own businesses including one of his cousins, who felt unchallenged in his job, and then Kirsty, a childhood friend who was wanting to spend more quality time with her family while having an income from working the hours she wanted to work.

Would you get a buzz from helping people? What could you do with extra income? A phone call or email could change your life, like it changed Dan’s and Kirsty’s. ● Contact Dan and Kirsty on 07979 756850 or email them at info@wayless.co.uk

Vanilla April/May 2020

WORK

For those of you working from home for the first time over the next few months here’s a few top tips from Amanda Baldwin at HR Answers!

● Breaks & Lunchtime – Take regular breaks, walk round the room, stretch the shoulder and back out, give the eyes a rest. ● Always keep hydrated.

This will help with your energy levels.

● No commuting.

Enjoy the lie in! ● Make yourself presentable.

Imagine you are going into the office – this will get you into the right mindset to work in an unfamiliar environment. ● Draw up a list of ‘procrastinators’.

These are the things that will distract you. For example, checking social media, watching a box set, playing games, reading etc. Keep the list somewhere handy and reward yourself with these once your working day is over. ● Have a designated workspace.

Set up the laptop so you have the screen at eye level and adjust the chair you’re going to sit on wherever possible. If the temptation is to work from bed – don’t – it will play havoc with both your back and your work-life balance!

IN THE WORKPLACE

TOP TIPS FOR HOME WORKING ● Establish ground rules.

Let partners/children/housemates know that you are not to be disturbed. ● Get started slightly earlier than normal.

Let your manager/team leader know you’ve started work. This shows that your Wi-Fi is playing ball and shows you are working.

● Have the radio or some background music on.

However, if you’re in a busy household you might be looking forward to some peace and quiet so make sure everyone knows you’re working, not to be disturbed and get the headphones on. ● Build a support network.

Ring colleagues for assistance, the IT helpdesk number, your manager etc. ● Beware video and conference calls.

Pay attention to what you are doing throughout. Don’t make tea/coffee whilst on them or cook scrambled egg whilst on them. All the other participants can hear what you are doing so beware. ● And Finally...

At the end of the day, email to say your logging of at x time, put the work away and move away from your workstation.

HR ANSWERS offers a flexible, affordable HR service tailored to your business. It’s our personable approach Answers that sets us apart from our competitors. We make Your personnel solutions the effort to be familiar with our clients and to be an extension of your business. You will always have the same HR team no matter what the issue. HR Answers are the only HR consultants to offer 24/7 access for those clients that have 24/7 businesses.

HR

Email: info@hranswersltd.co.uk or telephone: 07979 365724 for our helpline.

WWW.HRANSWERSLTD April/May 2020 Vanilla

35

REAL LIVES

HOW TO MAKE YOUR LIVINGROOM A CLASSROOM

As 9 million children in the UK are set to spend weeks at home, how can parents make their own school at home?

M

ANY PARENTS in the UK are now faced with an unprecedented challenge: keeping their children occupied and engaged with their education from home.

For younger children especially, one effective tool for doing this is to ensure that different areas of the house correlate to different subjects. If you have a garden, this is a great place for PE lessons to take place. For those core subjects, a separate desk in one corner of the house will help kids focus. Other useful life skills can also be taught during this time at home - such as basic cooking skills.

For older children, having their own space in the house where they can work, away from their bedroom, will also help to set good work habits.

Putting up signs can help too - whether they be subject signs for different areas of the house, or signs with a few key facts on; similar to posters that might be found in the classroom. Getting kids to help with these displays will also be beneficial and seeing their work on the walls will be a source of motivation.

Here’s some tips to help keep your homes as harmonious as possible...

36

engagement of peers, motivation and energy can take a dive. Create a timetable that’ll work for both you and your child, covering their subjects and your own workload. Divide up periods of work and study with active breaks.

Make sure that you and your child keep active, go outside, eat meals at the appropriate times and have offline conversations.

1. SET GOOD HABITS AROUND PHONE USE AND HAVE HONEST CONVERSATIONS

Teens spend a lot of time on apps speaking with their friends anyway - and isolation will only increase their desire to communicate socially. While some communication will be positive for their mental health, the opposite is true when social media fuels feelings of isolation and anxiety.

You’ll need to set some ground rules for how phones are used during the day and make sure to have honest conversations with them about their mood.

2. ORGANISE YOUR DAYS (AND MAKE SURE TO GO OUTSIDE!)

Without the structure of a work or school day, and without the

3. LOOK FOR ONLINE SUPPORT

Self-study is an incredibly hard skill to master and secondary school pupils may struggle without someone actively explaining concepts to them. If you feel unable to help your child study while also dealing with your own workload, it is worth finding an online tutor who can help your child fill in any gaps in their knowledge. Online lessons are like having a face-to-face skype call with a tutor but with an interactive whiteboard on the screen too so students can upload documents and make notes. A tutor can keep students on track with the syllabus and give them a much-needed boost of confidence in what is a confusing and challenging time. n Vanilla April/May 2020

SERVICE REPAIRS • MOT’S • VEHICLE UPGRADES • RECOVERY • 4X4 TYRES

Independent repair and service specialists for Land Rover vehicles We offer servicing, repairs, MOT’s, vehicle upgrades and a recovery service for vehicles dating back to 1948 right up to the present day.

We are stockists of Allmakes, Bearmach, Britpart and genuine Land Rover parts, with a large stockholding and over 17000 stocklines.

We offer a daily delivery service across Norfolk and north Suffolk and aim to deliver within 24 hours of receiving your order.

JSF 4x4 Norfolk 1 Spar Rd Norwich NR6 6BY e: info@jsf4x4norfolk.co.uk 01603 787064 www.jsf4x4norfolk.co.uk

THE FASHION LANES

LIFE IN THE NORWICH LANES

“

A MESSAGE FROM THE MADDERMARKET THEATRE... #imagineyouveseenit “If you have bought tickets for a show at the Maddermarket Theatre, in the event of cancellation, we would ask one thing: please would you imagine you’ve seen it and turn your ticket refund into a donation?

The Maddermarket Theatre Trust is a small charity. We exist to serve our local community and our small team works incredibly hard to provide an important service in Norfolk. At a time when the arts and creative industry is in crisis, we are doing everything in our power to save the jobs of our employees, and to ensure we are able to re-open when the pandemic has passed.

We fully appreciate this is a big ask, but please if you could imagine you’ve seen the show and donate your refund, it will make a huge difference to our ability to carry on.”

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Our small independent traders are in a struggle to stay afloat, with the general public urged to stay home and avoid non-essential travel.

Please support them in any way you can...

BREAD SOURCE

BENEDICT’S

Richard Bainbridge’s award-winning restaurant, Benedict’s, is offering weekend ready meals. Simply call, make your payment over the phone and turn up to collect. Orders must be received by midday for same day pick-up or delivery. Deliveries are £5 within a seven mile radius of NR1, with a delivery time of 3pm to 5pm. 01603 926080

MOORISH FALAFEL With the Moorish Falafel Bar shop doors closed for the foreseeable future, we are now offering a delivery service so that you can pre-order fresh, delicious falafel straight to your door.

Minimum spend from £15.

Free delivery Thursday to Saturday.Pre-order by 5pm for next day delivery between 11am-1pm 01603 622250

NAMASTE INDIA Still Providing & Delivering Food, Spreading Kindness We will stand by the people of this city and continue to provide our healthy, authentic, indian & vegetarian food prepared with highest standards of hygiene through take-out (from restaurant) or contactless delivery within Norwich area. Please call 01603 466466 or email namastevillagenorwich@ gmail.com to order & arrange pick-up.

NamasteOpie Street, Norwich

The independent, artisan bakery in the heart of Norwich, specialises in simple, honest produce.

You’ll be hard pushed to find a spot that offers better coffee and delicious treats. From 24 March Bread Source will be offering an online shop only for collection or delivery. Orders include bread, cakes and food bundles with essentials like butter, jam, eggs and milk.

Place your order online.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

01603 611526 CMY

K

For the most up-to-date information check online at www.norwichlanes.co.uk

Vanilla April/May 2020

BEAUTY Clinique Superdefense SPF40 Fatigue+ 1st Signs Of Age Multi-Correcting Gel £42

An all-in-one skincare multitasker to rouse tired skin. There isn’t much this gel can’t do and it also contains a sturdy factor 40 SPF to protect against sun damage. Somehow it all fits in one small pot!

The shampoo equivalent of a deep clean car valet.

As well as fighting scalp-blocking pollution and product build-up, Living Proof’s new shampoo contains agents, which bind to the metal ions that make up the minerals in hard water, rinsing them down the plughole along with the suds.

Max Factor False Lash Effect Max Out Primer, blue primer that delivers dense, fluttery, ultra-dark lashes without the faff. £11.99

Lovely stuff

REN A.H.A. RANGE

The alpha hydroxy acids that REN use in their clean skincare are naturally occurring and work as a gentle but powerful exfoliator for your AHA Smart skin. They work by Renewal Body dissolving the bonds Serum £35 Ready Steady between old cells and new, lifting away dead Glow Daily AHA Tonic £25 skin and cleansing Jarrold the skin’s surface. As well as helping to keep skin clear, they also fight signs of ageing and help give skin a radiant glow.

We love the resurfacing toner that exfoliates and brightens the complexion for the perfect glow and the moisturising body serum for dry or uneven skin, that restores natural radiance.

April/May 2020 Vanilla

Spring beauties. beauties . .

Living Proof Triple Detox Shampoo £24

NEW LAVENDERLAND Jo Malone London introduces a new limited-edition collection, Lavenderland, that is offering a fresh perspective on an iconic ingredient: English lavender.

Discover a trio of takes on this timeless note, each offering a different presentation of natural lavender.

One strikingly aromatic, the second fresh with a cool woodiness, and the third cascading with soft florals.

Available online and at Jarrold, Norwich

Wisteria & Lavender 30ml Cologne £50

Silver Birch & Lavender 30ml Cologne £50 Lavender & Coriander 30ml Cologne £50

41

BEAUTY

RE

BEAUTIFUL INSPIRATION

Vanilla talks to Lynn Massingham at House of Aesthetics

H

OW MANY of us know what we want to do with our lives when we are as young as eight years old? Lynn Massingham did. The owner of House of Aesthetics, in Aylsham, has always had a passion for beauty, creativity, science and biology, and this has brought her a long and successful career helping people of all ages to look and feel better.

“I fell in love with the beauty industry and there was no looking back,” says Lynn. “What I really love about my work is the broad knowledge you need to have,

42

and there are so many new developments and techniques.

A good aesthetic consultant needs passion, a broad range of skills, a good creative eye and an understanding of how the body works.”

Lynn offers a full range of procedures, from nail enhancements and semipermanent make-up, to wrinklereducing injections and dermal fillers, lash and brow treatments, waxing and tanning, microblading, body massage and more.

“It’s so important to me that

For more info on treatments and services contact Lynn at House of Aesthetics, 9 Buckenham Road, Aylsham, NR11 6GB Tel: 07919 104965 email: admin@houseofaesthetics andbeauty.com

Vanilla April/May 2020

© SYLVAINE POITAU

illa Van PORT

every client is happy with their treatment. I never make huge, startling changes. It’s about subtle enhancements to a person’s natural beauty, so they still look like themselves, but fresher and brighter, and this gives a huge boost to their confidence.

“For example, when we get a little older our faces tend to fade back and lose colour. This is due to a reduction in collagen and blood flow. A very popular and effective treatment is semi-permanent make up to add a rosy glow to the lips.

It’s very subtle, it doesn’t look like you’re wearing lipstick, but it simply gives back that lovely pink freshness.

“I’m 50, so I understand how the body can change. I have had the lip treatment, plus a little collagen, and Botox. Nothing more, because I understand that these small enhancements are all you need to feel and look so much brighter.

“My aim is to advise clients about what they can do to make that subtle positive change. I invite anyone to come in for a relaxed, no obligation chat about options. It’s essential that new clients come to see the clinic, so they are reassured that I have all the necessary qualifications and experience, that my levels of hygiene are superb, that in the unlikely event of any complications I know what to do, that they are in good hands – all the things people worry about. I never intimidate, I inspire.” ■

“A unique salon that doesn’t just cut your hair, you’re treated to a whole experience...”

l Aesthetic skin

procedures

l Semi-permanent

makeup

l Consultation for

l l l l l

the treatment of lines and wrinkles Dermal fillers Plasma Fibroblast Eve Taylor advanced facials 20% OFF Lash & brow All treatments treatments for all new Waxing, tanning, clients nails & more!

Quote Vanilla at time of booking

01603 616396 BOOK ONLINE W W W. S TA N D E N M AY.CO M S TA N D E N M AY

9 Buckenham Road, Aylsham, NR11 6GB t 07919 104965 e admin@houseofaestheticsandbeauty.com w www.houseofaestheticsandbeauty.com

The clear choice for a confident smile

Get a straighter smile in as little as 3 months To book a FREE consultation please call the Practice and quote ‘Vanilla’

R O S S CA M P B E L L DENTAL PRACTICE Denplan Excel Accredited

36 SURREY STREET, NORWICH NR1 3NY

01603 660758 or email us at reception@rosscampbell.co.uk w w w. r o s s c a m p b e l l . c o. u k

Be your own boss.... Choose your own hours... and help make people happier and healthier!

J

Become a

Consultant!

Contact Dan & Kirsty today!

t: 07979

756850

e: info@wayless.co.uk

delicious! bewith Slimming World

Check website fo all local r groups

A warm, friendly Slimming World group is the very best place to lose weight. You’ll get all the support you need to reach your dream weight and stay there for life!

Saturdays with Anne 8.30am & 10.30am: Hewett School – The Base, Hall Rd, Norwich NR1 2PW Mondays with Kelly 5.30pm & 7.30pm: St Anne’s Church Hall, Colman Rd, Norwich NR4 7HA Tuesdays with Kelly 9.30am: Harford Community Centre, 10 The Lastings, Hall Rd, Norwich NR4 6ET Tuesdays with Anne 5.30pm & 7.30pm Bignold Primary School, Wessex St, Norwich NR2 2SP Wednesdays with Rebecca 9.30am & 11am: St Andrews Centre, The Good Shepherd Church, Thunder Lane, Thorpe St Andrew, NR7 0AB 5.30pm & 7.30pm: Norfolk Snow Sports Club, Whitlingham Lane, Trowse NR14 8TW

slimmingworld.co.uk

Anne

Kelly

Rebecca

T: 07737 548696

T: 07708 370900

T: 07881 698892

Your local Slimming World Consultants p

0344 897 8000

WELLNESS Kelly Mitchell

Anne Rolfe

Rebecca Jones

EMPOWERED TO MAKE A CHANGE

The trio of Norwich women championing the Slimming World weight-loss programme

S

LIMMING WORLD was founded 51 years ago to help people lose weight healthily, in a supportive environment, where every member is treated with genuine care, empathy and respect.

Three women – Anne Rolfe, Kelly Mitchell and Rebecca Jones – run separate Slimming World groups in and around central Norwich. They all support each other, and their own personal weight loss journeys led to them becoming consultants.

“We know from personal experience that losing weight can be tough, time consuming and very personal,” says Anne Rolfe. “The Slimming World ethos is to always

April/May 2020 Vanilla

welcome each new member with a smile, encouragement and to be there throughout the weight loss journey.”

Anne’s own story began when she had her son, now four, and decided to lose the 2½ stone she put on during pregnancy. “I was always trying to lose weight, but nothing really worked, so when my son was born I went with my mother to the Slimming World group and was immediately taken by how friendly and welcoming it was. I was never humiliated, or shamed, I was encouraged, guided and supported and after six months I had lost the weight.

I was so inspired that I decided

to become a consultant and help others to achieve the same success. Slimming World has given me a new career, and helped me to keep the weight off.”

So what makes Slimming World such a positive way to lose weight?

Kelly Mitchell says: “There are no banned or ‘bad’ foods, it’s a practical, family-friendly plan with no complex weighing or obsessive calorie counting. It’s about re-educating members so they make healthier choices, but with no restrictions. The groups are a superb support system, and from the moment you step through the door for the first time you feel like you’re part of a family, all working together to achieve success.”

Rebecca Jones adds: “The beauty of Slimming World is the atmosphere of sharing ideas and strategies. We can help you plan meals, for yourself and your family, and enjoy your food without guilt.

Some people have a very sweet tooth and struggle with avoiding chocolates or cakes. We can advise on low fat and sugar alternatives that will give you the sweet hit you need, without breaking the diet.

It’s about making time for you, your weight loss and this important stage in your life. Slimming World really can help you achieve that dream.” n Norwich Slimming World groups meet up on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Saturdays. It is hoped they will resume soon.

For more information contact your local consultant: Anne – 07737 548696 Kelly – 07708 370900 Rebecca – 07881 698892 www.slimmingworld.co.uk

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BEAUTY

YOUR BEAUTY QUESTIONS SOLVED ...by Vanilla beauty expert, Sue Adams

HOW CAN I DISGUISE THE BAGS UNDER MY EYES?

The under eye bag is possibly the most irritating beauty concern of all time! To effectively cover dark circles, it’s important that you choose the right tone of concealer for your skin. Always go one shade lighter than your skin and use the LEAST amount of product possible. To get the best coverage, use a small brush to apply under-eye concealer.

Then, using your ring finger to finish, press lightly into the skin until it’s fully blended. You can also apply a small amount of setting powder to your under eye to ensure that the concealer stays put. As with the concealer itself, go easy on the product to avoid creasing.

Top Tip:Try sleeping with your head slightly raised and don’t forget, chilled cucumber slices are very soothing for the eye area and excellent for reducing puffiness.

HOW DOES STRESS IMPACT YOUR SKIN?

The hormone cortisol is triggered by stress. Cortisol is the ‘fight or flight’ hormone and it also causes your body to make more oil which then makes your skin greasy and can cause spots and acne-breakouts.Stress can also cause other skin conditions such as eczema

46 46

or rosacea, so if you want to take care of your skin, you need to take care of yourself as well. Try and identify the reasons behind your stress so that you can take action to remove the cause and relieve stress symptoms. Why not make a conscious effort this year to look after yourself, breathe and be kind to your mind and body? And maybe book a stressrelieving facial or massage?

I’VE HIT THIRTY AND FEEL AS THOUGH I’VE GOT WRINKLES OVERNIGHT! WHAT CAN I DO?

As we get older, our skin can start to look and behave very differently. From the age of about 29, the rate of collagen and elastin renewal slows down considerably. Pregnant or perimenopausal women may also notice significant changes in their skin due to fluctuations in hormones. This can cause the onset of acne or rosacea, even in those who have never previously suffered with their skin.

For most people, external factors are most significant in the extrinsic ageing of the skin.

These include smoking and in particular, UV exposure. These influences affect the dermis in particular and result in changes in the chemical structure of collagen and elastin. These changes make the skin look dull, less plump and fine lines may start appearing. So start using products that have peptides and vitamin A C and E in their ingredients and stay out of the sun if aging is a concern – enjoy your holiday, but protect your skin with sun screen. n Vanilla April/May 2020

FINE TUNING SORE BODIES

therapyinc SUPERFACIALIST DERMALOGICA EXPERTS INSANELY GREAT MASSAGE 40 YEARS OF INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE

* GIFT

VOUCHERS available

BY JOELLE FORDHAM MOst(DO) Pain doesn’t stop because we’re in lock down.

If pain decides to self-isolate with you, or to follow in every step of your double shift, we’re here to help!

8 Exchange Street NR2 1AT

01603 305832

therapyinc.co.uk

dermalogica®

Talking about Virtual Appointments



ROSEN METHOD BODYWORK Rosen Method is an approach to well-being using sensitive touch and words to help people become aware of what they are holding physically and emotionally in their bodies.

Rosen Method can help with common conditions, such as back pain and arthritis, when muscle tension is present. It also allows us to reconnect with and experience our true nature.

Our collective anxiety level is at an all time high.

Many key workers will work themselves to exhaustion, new home workers will hijack the kitchen table and many of the furloughed will use their spare time for gardening, clearing the garage, decluttering the house or binge watching Netflix. All activities which often cause people to call us to the rescue!

Although our physical doors are closed, our virtual doors are still open!

Our virtual appointments are simple to arrange and are carried out in the comfomfort and safety of your own home. We can offer a diagnosis, teach simple techniques to self-treat, management advice, remedial exercises and facilitate an onward medical referral, if needed.

Using us as a first point of contact for musculoskeletal pain during the pandemic will also help take pressure off the NHS. Further information can be found on the “Virtual Clinic” page of our website.

For appointments please contact Louisa Turner, East Anglia’s only certified Rosen Method Practitioner and a HCPC registered Physiotherapist

t: 07746 296106 e: info@touch-matters.co.uk www.touch-matters.co.uk

To book an appointment go online or call us on 01603 327223 www.BodyFlowOsteopathy.com

Specialists in high quality fibrous plaster work • • • • • • •

Purpose made Restoration Match existing Repairs Interior & Exterior Supply & Install UK Delivery

• • • • • • •

Cornices Ceiling Roses Dado Rails Panels Fireplaces Pillars Fireplaces

We can match your existing cornice!

01603 980444  Find us on instagram www.britishmouldings.co.uk

Norwich’s Bathroom & Kitchen Specialists

CONCEPT

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS From start to finish...

Your one-stop shop Kitchen Design & Planning Traditional & Contemporary Bathrooms, Shower Rooms & Wetrooms Supply & Installation Over 30 Years Combined Experience

Frequent special offers & ex-display deals available Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm Saturday: 9am - 1pm | Sunday: Closed

01603 787578

Concept House, Roundtree Way, Norwich, NR7 8SH www.conceptnorwich.co.uk e: conceptbathroomandkitchen@gmail.com

HOMES

Bark side plates £10 each Bam & Arrow

Fir tree wall chart £29 Botanical wall chart £38 Bam & Arrow

See p73 for stockist’s details

homestuff home Framed print £65 The Norfolk Hare

we ❤ Bam & Arrow

Linden table lamp with owl shade £108 The Norfolk Hare

Set of 4 espresso mugs £16.75 Bam & Arrow

Glass jellyfish £18/£36 Bam & Arrow

Napkin sets (4 napkins) £30 Bam & Arrow

Cotton zigzag cushion £35 Bam & Arrow

April/May 2020 Vanilla

49

Qualified, friendly and professional plumbers, gas engineers and heating engineers with over 20 years experience in the industry

l General plumbing l Boiler & central heating repairs

& installations

l Quick response emergency

breakdown service

l Homebuyers inspections l Bathroom installations CALL US NOW ON

01603 630608

or email: info@hgsplumbingandheating.co.uk HGS Plumbing and Heating Unit 7 Capitol House 4-6 Heigham Street Norwich NR2 4TE

All Electrical Installations Rewires & Repairs Fault Finding & Testing Domestic & Commercial Landlord Certificates

Call Us Now On 01603 626400

info@yareelectrical.co.uk www.yareelectrical.co.uk

HOMES

how to work with . . .

EXTERIOR PAINT

BY KARL BUCK AT PAINT & PAPER LTD

For previously painted exterior wood surfaces: Sand back areas of paint that have peeled or blistered, so you can achieve a good, smooth finish. In environments where wood-rotting fungi is likely to occur, treat with exterior wood preservative prior to priming. Use a wood knot and resin blocking primer to patch and prime knotty or resinous woods. Then apply one full coat of Exterior Wood Primer & Undercoat in the correct colour tone for your topcoat. Again, we would recommend a minimum of four hours drying time between coats.

How do I apply the paint?

Q: I’m want to paint my wooden garden shed this spring. How should I go about painting it and can it be done cheaply?

Excellent question! While It may seem a daunting and expensive task, this is not always the case.

If you chose a cheaper paint, you will end up using several coats to get the required look, so in the long run you will end up spending more.

At Paint & Paper we recommend that you use the following products: Farrow & Ball Exterior Eggshell alongside the Farrow & Ball Exterior Primer and Undercoat.

How do I prepare the surface?

Ensure the surface is sound, clean, April/May 2020 Vanilla

dry and free from dirt, grease and any other contamination. Fill any cracks, holes and open joins with an appropriate exterior filler.

For exterior bare wood surfaces: Lightly sand the surface to improve the paint’s adhesion. For environments where wood-rotting fungi is likely to occur, treat with exterior wood preservative prior to priming. Use a wood knot and resin blocking primer to patch and prime knotty or resinous woods.

Then apply a full coat of Exterior Wood Primer & Undercoat and the correct topcoat. We’d recommend a minimum of four hours drying time between coats.

If you need more than one tin of the same colour, check that the batch numbers are the same. If they’re not, mix the tins together before use. Stir paint thoroughly before use – use anything to stir the paint, although we’d recommend a paint mixer, or better still, get your paint mixed at your suppliers. Apply two coats using a brush or roller. On application of the final coat, lay off the paint in a single direction.

Exterior Eggshell is dry in two hours and can be re-applied in four hours. Clean brushes and rollers with warm soapy water.

Paint the shed door in a contrasting colour.

KARL’S TOP TIP:

Painting your shed door in a contrasting colour – or just painting the door, leaving the rest of the shed as plain wood or brick – can be remarkably effective! ● For more information email karl@paint-paper.co.uk

51

HOMES

How Taxidermy Became Cool Again...

Taxidermy, once a word that conjured up images of moth-eaten and seldom-visited antique shops and Victorian Gentleman’s clubs, is now experiencing a massive renaissance thanks to a new breed of ethical taxidermist.

The art of preparing, stuffing and mounting the skins of dead animals can be traced back to the 1600s, though the golden age for taxidermy was the Victorian era, a period that was characterised by fascination with death and memento mori.

Queen Victoria herself was famously an avid collector of stuffed birds.

Although there was a decline in the popularity of taxidermy after the Victorian era, the fad of stuffing animals has never really died out (excuse the pun).

Now however, a new vanguard of young, female and ethically-minded taxidermists have come to the fore, distinguished by their mantra of never killing for the sake of taxidermy.

According to the London Taxidermy Academy, 50% of taxidermy students are vegan or vegetarian, and 90% are female.

Local taxidermist, Nicky Secker-Bligh tells us: “Taxidermy is all about appreciating nature, preserving and paying respect to something. Aside from its scientific and artistic purposes, taxidermy serves as a beautiful reminder of our own mortality, capturing the ephemeral in a perfect moment.” ● Nicky’s pieces can be found on sale at Bam & Arrow in Swaffham and Bringing The Outside In at Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea

52

Vanilla April/May 2020

Multiple Award Winning DECORATOR *****

MARK HUTCHINSON

Nicky Secker-Bligh

“Dependable Quality”

La Petite Taxidermiste

t: 01692 598985

07730 436426

m: 07852 147135 e: MHdecorators@outlook.com

- taxidermist -

Commissions taken and lovely pieces for sale

HICKLING, NORWICH NR12 0XH

 markhutchinson_decorators

Find me on Instagram

FABRIC – WE LOVE IT!!

At NU Furnishings & Fabrics we are pleased be able to supply fabrics from the classic traditional through to the contemporary modern, from the sumptuous and luxurious through to the simply stylish.

VISIT OUR NEW SHOP! l Large fabric collection l Soft furnishings & upholstery l Made-to-order furniture

We offer a home consultation and advice service where you can choose from an extensive range of fabric sample books in the comfort of your own home or business.

l Upholstery accessories

Find us at: Notcutts Daniel’s Road Norwich NR4 6QP

l Children’s furniture

t: 01603 323122

l Wallpapers

NU Furnishings and Fabrics

www.nufurnishingsandfabrics.co.uk

b r i n g

y o u r

o u t d o o r w o r l d t o l i f e b r i n g yo u r o u t d o o r wo r l d to l i f e . co lo u r s f r o m Fa r r ow & Ba l l ’ s

co lo u r by n at u r e co l l e c t i o n a r e n ow ava i l a b l e i n Fa r r ow & Ba l l ’ s d u r a b l e exterior eggshell.

e x t e r i o r e g g s h e l l i s v e r sat i l e f i n i s h w i t h a s i l ky 2 0 % s h e e n ,

Exterior Eggshell adds

l as t i n g co lo u r to a l m o s t a n y t h i n g i n

yo u r o u t d o o r s pac e , f r o m wo o d e n w i n d ow f r a m e s a n d c l a d d i n g to m e ta l g u t t e r i n g . and railing

1 1 H E L L E S D O N PA R K R D - N O R W I C H N R 6 5 D R PA I N T - PA P E R . C O . U K

E N Q U I R I E S @ PA I N T - PA P E R . C O . U K

01603 400777

We offer a tailor made interior design service to meet your individual requirements and needs, from a single blind to a full design project.

M: 07714321987 E: info@saltinteriors.co.uk W: www.saltinteriors.co.uk

HOMES

HOME

STYLE FILE

BY HOLLY PAGANI INTERIOR DESIGNER AT SALT INTERIOR DESIGN

QUESTION: I have a small loo under the stairs… is it worth trying to make it look nice?

ANSWER: There is no room too small to be

decorated in my world! I love making a small cloakroom or downstairs shower room look brilliant. More often than not, it’s guests using these spaces and so it’s lovely to give them a little surprise when they open the door. Think of it like the wardrobe in Narnia.

The key thing is to not worry about trying to make it feel bigger – that’s hard to achieve and not really worth it. You would be better focusing your efforts on making it memorable.

Use really interesting /bright/ funny wallpapers.

Do the ceiling as well. If papering is tricky because of angles and pipes, then don’t hesitate to use a bold paint or hang loads of pictures in there to create a mini gallery.

I use mirrors a lot – either in one piece on an entire wall, or lots of individual ones hung together in a cluster. If you are lucky enough to have a window, then definitely get a roman blind or venetian blind to dress it. If you’ve read any of my previous articles, you’ll know I encourage using trims and tassels where possible too!

Don't worry about ‘bigger’, make it ‘memorable’

Mirrors can be used to great effect

If you can afford to go for a complete remodel, then keep the porcelain simple and consider an interesting basin instead – a copper or stone bowl perhaps? And of course, there’s always the tiles… you can have a lot of fun making patterns or mixing colours on the walls and floors. At the end of the day, you can afford to be a bit wild because hopefully your visit to this room is only a short one! ● For ideas on how you can accessorise a room or for any interior design queries contact Holly at Salt Interiors: info@saltinteriors.co.uk April/May 2020 Vanilla

55

Beautiful kitchens, beautifully made The Norfolk Workshop, North Norfolk Business Centre, Northrepps, Cromer NR27 9RQ t: 01263 510315 www.norfolkworkshop.co.uk @NorfolkWorkshop

@TheNorfolkWorkshop

Harvey Maria Neisha Crossland Dovetail Ochre ÂŁ46.80m2

From carpets to luxury floors, we’ve got it covered.

01603 443588

94 COLMAN ROAD NORWICH NR4 7EH

We build beautiful handmade kitchens and bespoke furniture in our Norfolk Workshop. Our experienced team of cabinet makers bring decades of experience to build kitchens and cabinetry that will last a lifetime.

All of our kitchens are handmade from scratch. That means every single kitchen is unique.

HOMES

what to do with . . .

LEFTOVER PAINT

because you know that when you’re using up the tester paint, the tones you’d picked are likely to all complement one another.

FRESHEN UP PICTURE FRAMES

There’s a school of thought that says you should be using eggshell paint on anything wooden, but that’s not the case; emulsion is perfectly suitable and just gives a matte finish rather than a glossy one. If you're doing things properly, use a primer beforehand, but we're not always hugely worried about doing that. At some point soon, you’ll probably fancy changing the colour again so a pristine finish isn’t vital.”

© NEPTUNE.COM

PAINT UNLOVED AREAS

H

AVE YOU EVER ordered a tester pot (or two, or ten) to help you decide what colour to pick for your next decorating project? Even though it’s always suggested painting a good-sized sheet of paper to know whether that particular tone suits your scheme, the lighting and your taste – a simple stroke is never quite enough to give you a clear picture. There’s always a lot of leftovers, waiting and wanting to be used. So what to do with the remaining paint?

April/May 2020 Vanilla

PAINT YOUR POTS

If you love having a mixture of

terracotta pots in your garden, sometimes brand-new ones can look too smooth and shiny. To help them blend in, use leftover tester paint to colour in any newcomer plant pots. By adding a band of colour, the pristine terracotta pots are toned down and feel more rustic. Usually, when you decorate, you’re torn between a few like shades rather than ones wildly different. This is good news for your garden,

Unused paint from your tester pots is a really good opportunity to look around the house and think about any small bits you’ve overlooked that would benefit from a bit of attention. Use the remnants of tester paint pots to jazz up the inside cabinets and shelving. Sometimes, if you know a 2.5l tin will be too much for a job, order a sample paint pot.

They’re relatively inexpensive and the result’s so impactful – it will help to unleash your arty side!

Remember, that when your paint’s all used up, you’ll need to dry out the tin before you recycle it. Sand and sawdust are a good way to make sure any paint lining the tin hardens completely, and then take it along to your local household waste recycling plant.

Or, keep it and use it for storing things like nails and tools in the shed. www.neptune.com

57

HOMES

YOU DREAM IT, WE MAKE IT!

That's what they do at at NU Furnishings & Fabrics

P

ride in our homes is at an all-time high. Everything from curtains and cushions, to furniture, wallpaper and beyond, the ideas the concepts we dream of can be brought to life.

Norfolk Upholstery is at the very heart of these lifestyle dreams, and the family-run business has been bringing new life to both commercial and residential furniture for nearly 50 years. Owner Karl Cooper is third generation, and has continued the good work, also launching NU Seating three years ago, along with business partner Shane Ison, to cater for commercial customers.

Karl has recently expanded the NU empire still further with NU Furnishings & Fabrics, which opened a year ago in Notcutts.

“The new venture is very much a holistic, high-quality soft furnishings offering, with beautiful

58

things for the home or office. We offer handmade curtains and blinds, bespoke made-to-order furniture and upholstery, elegant and bold wallpapers, cushions and other soft furnishings and beautiful exciting fabrics.

“Curtains are proving to be a very popular line for us, and we have some gorgeous high-end fabrics, such a Colefax & Fowler, Designer’s Guild, Romo and Blendworth. Everything from classic to contemporary, sumptuous and luxurious, to simply stylish.

“Our handmade furniture is created in our own workshop and made to a superb standard.

We can make anything you want – you dream it, we make it! Our customers are stunned by the workmanship, quality, attention to detail and the sheer weight of the pieces. They are made to last a lifetime.

NU Furnishings & Fabrics, Daniels Road, Norwich NR4 6QP t: 01603 323122 nufurnishingsandfabrics.co.uk

Vanilla April/May 2020

© SYLVAINE POITAU

Gary and Helen are on hand to help at NU Furnishings & Fabrics

“Blinds are a great way to add a touch of style and we have everything from roller to Roman, and all the trimmings to go with it. This means we can make something perfect for your home. Wallpaper is very ‘in’ and the perfect way to create a stunning feature wall that says a lot about your own personal style.

We have some gorgeous brands such as Cole & Sons, Sanderson and Farrow & Ball. A very classy choice.

“Our bespoke handmade cushions can finish off a room perfectly, adding both comfort and glamour. The sky’s the limit really, from window seats to bolster cushions; we have so many ideas to make your home really pop.”

Upholstery is, in itself, sustainable, and Karl is proud that recycling and upscaling furniture has been the cornerstone of the business since 1974. “We try to use recycled material where possible in our new furniture too, and many of our fabric ranges use recycled materials. It’s vital that we all create less waste. We can still do this and have the home of our dreams.” ■

B E C A U S E W E B E L I E V E T H AT

YOU A R E S P E C I A L , A N D T H AT ’ S A G O O D T H I N G .

At Schmidt, we are convinced that you are unique and special, and so is your home interior. Whether you live in a house, loft apartment or mountainside, whether you collect shoes or records, whether you like bold colours or brushed wood, we design ultra-personalised kitchens, dressing rooms and interior solutions with millimetre precision.

Arrange an appointment online or contact your local showroom: 7 The Lastings, Hall Road Norwich NR4 6ET 01603 574157

Follow us on Instagram: @schmidtkitchensnorwich

> www.homedesign.schmidt

Annonce Presse A4 - Notoriete 2019 - Horizontal.indd 1

01/02/2019 11:13

NORFOLK SCHOOL OF GARDENING

GROWING SKILLS

for professional & amateur gardeners

Posh Plants TOPIARY PLANT AND BLOSSOM TREE HIRE FOR WEDDINGS AND PARTIES GARDEN DESIGN & SPRING PLANTS AT SEVEN ACRES NURSERY

For anyone with an interest in gardening and keen to learn more.

We run a range of courses, from the six-week Introduction to Garden Design to the one-day Plant Propogation course.

Learn in a beautiful, historic walled garden at Ketteringham Hall near Norwich.

SHOP ONLINE for Plants, Garden Gifts & ‘Silver Leaves Jewellery’

Visit us for your garden plants! www.poshplants.com

Posh Plants l Seven Acres Nursery East Tuddenham l NR20 3NF

07703 347014

Find us on facebook, instagram or email us e: info@norfolkschoolofgardening.co.uk w: www.norfolkschoolofgardening.co.uk

D E S I G N • I N S TA L L AT I O N • M A I N T E N A N C E & A F T E R C A R E

Perfect Plantings

Specialists in bespoke designs for your garden... providing you with full colour plans, supply of all plants and materials, installation of your planted areas along with a seasonal maintenance service Mail order plants now available!

Please visit our website for details

t: 0845 643 0921 m: 07981 396 334 e: perfectplantings@virginmedia.com www.perfectplantings.co.uk

GOLD MEDAL Winner

HOMES

Porthallow 2 seater sofa £800 Posh Plants Hampstead hanging nest chair £350 Posh Plants

we ❤ lounging

Zero Gravity reclining relaxer £44.99 Thorns DIY

Staying in is the new going out.

Make the most ofwhat outdoor space you have and you’ll never want to leave again!

Richmond Bench £190 Posh Plants

Napoli steamer £99.99 Thorns DIY

Bohemian hammock £72 Bam & Arrow

Avondale 4 seat set with parasol £290 Thorns DIY

See p73 for stockist’s details

Monaco 3-piece egg chair set £149.99 Thorns DIY

April/May 2020 Vanilla

Rive Droite bistro set £120 Posh Plants

61

© ANDY DAVIDSON

St Giles House

HHOTEL OT E LRESTAURANT T E R R AC E && SSPA PA

Say you will Your perfect wedding needs a perfect setting.

EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY  Period features and sumptuous catering make St Giles House Hotel, in the centre of Norwich, the most perfect wedding venue.

Stained glass, a sweeping staircase and priceless chandeliers form a dramatic baroque backdrop for marriages and civil ceremonies.

We will help arrange every last detail, so your wedding day will be as exclusive and individual as the hotel itself.

CALL OUR WEDDING PLANNER

01603 275180 email: reception@stgileshousehotel

Ask about our Early Week Party Offers when you Est. call.

1921 41-45 St Giles St. I Norwich I NR2 1JR www.stgileshousehotel.com

L A K E N H A M C RJoinEtheAfestivities M Eat StRGiles Y House

Specialist Ice CreamLunch Makers or dinner – our Festive Menu for 1 to 80

people is a must to make your seasonal celebratio sparkle. With a choice of 2 or 3 delicious courses starting from £21.95 per person.

You can choose our restaurantOF and35 bar, ideal for WINNERS GOLDwho AWARDS smaller groups or people simply prefer a da Guild of Fine Foods time celebrations. For larger private parties you c make our Walnut Suite or Maddermarket room yo own exclusive unique party space.

Available from 24th November until 30 December (excluding 25th December – see Christmas Day Menu)

BOOK TODAY

01603 620970

www.lakenhamcreamery.co.uk 2 Trafalgar Street, Norwich NR1 3HN

reception@stgileshousehotel.com @lakenhamcream

01603 275180 Lakenham Creamery

 @Lakenham_Creamery St Giles House Hotel | 41-45 St Giles St, Norwich NR2 1

FOOD

Foodienews plenty of local food around. The Local Food Map at bigbarn.co.uk will point you to producers in your area, many with online shops and local deliveries.

3. GROW YOUR OWN

6 WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OF STAYING HOME As the world slows down, families stay home and so many businesses shut their doors, there are still reasons to stay positive!

1. COOK

Having time at home is a great opportunity to cook delicious meals, get more confident, and enthused and to encourage children to get involved in the process. Technology means we can now watch video recipes instead of wading through stodgy cook books.

2. BECOME FRIENDLY WITH YOUR LOCAL PRODUCERS AND RETAILERS

This might be difficult in lockdown, but we all need food and if you want to avoid the supermarkets then local deliveries could be the best option all round. Chickens won’t stop laying eggs, cow’s will continue to produce milk, and veg won’t stop growing, so potentially, there should be

April/May 2020 Vanilla

We would all feel a lot more secure if we grew and shared food locally. So why not start up your own veg patch? If you’re short on space invest in a veg trug, or create some window boxes.

4. FERMENTING

Fermenting food was very popular, and essential, in the past, both to preserve food for shortages and to add flavour to meals. Fermented foods are also very healthy as they contain many essential gut bacteria to help increase immunity.

5. GET BAKING

If you are lucky enough to have a flour stash, then try your hand at baking. Not only is it healthier, but it is also a great way to relax and you can get the kids involved too. Healthier, satisfying, self sufficient, and saving money, should be enough reasons for this activity.

TAKE IT AWAY!

Lots of our lovely independents have switched production so they can offer take-outs.

River Green Café The vegetarian and veganfriendly eatery near Norwich will be offering takeaways at 15% discounted from the eat-in menu.

Options for diners include falafel mezze, cauliflower ‘wings’, vegan pad Thai, mushroom Wellington and blueberry chocolate brownie.

Jorges Grill & Tapas Delicious Portuguese tapas and grilled ribs, steaks and seafood.

See page 69 for more details...

The Cellar House at Eaton Meals, sandwiches, beer, coffee and more. See next page!

Harriet’s Café The tearoom is offering a luxury afternoon tea for delivery in the city at £7.50 per person. It includes four finger sandwiches, two scones with cream and jam and two homemade patisseries. l For an updated list of local businesses offering deliveries and takeaways go to visitnorwich.co.uk

6. FORAGE

Since we are still allowed to enjoy one outside activity a day, this could be a great opportunity to forage for some free goodies.

Over the next month you could look out for wild garlic, sorrel, elderflowers and even nettles.

63

MODERN PUB DINING One passion, two great pubs.

The Cellar House L P &R ,e n ocaL ub

Main Road, North Tuddenham, Norfolk NR20 3DJ www.thelodge-tuddenham.co.uk 01362 638466

NEW! LODGE SHOP • LOCAL CRAFTS & PRODUCE • OPEN

DURING PUB HOURS

estauRant

aton oRwich

A vibrant, family-friendly pub offering delicious home-cooked food from lunchtime until late... every day

Y! ILABLE TO TAKEAWA

& BEER AVA FOOD, HOT DRINKS

2 EATON ST NORWICH, NR4 7AB

t: 01603 454 511 e: thecellarhouse@gmail.com The Street, Lyng, Norfolk NR9 5AL www.thefoxatlyng.co.uk 01603 872316

We serve food Monday - Saturday: 12 -9pm Sunday: 12 - 6.30pm Breakfast served 9.30 -11am Saturday & Sunday

The Kitchenary T R AD IT I O NA L ITAL I A N

M AD E F RESH DAILY

NORFOLK’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT COOKSHOP

Cookware & Bakeware Tools • Gadgets • Cake Decorations Home-brew equipment Cake tin hire If you love cooking (or know someone who does) come along and see what we have for you!

6 OPIE STREET, NORWICH NR1 3DN 01603 662527

Taverham Crafts Centre (behind Taverham Garden Centre) Fir Covert Road, Taverham Norwich NR8 6HT

t: 01603 261932 e: kitchenarycookshop@gmail.com

Mon-Fri: 9.30am-5pm Saturday: 9am-5pm Sunday: 10.30am-4.30pm

FOOD

The

Vanilla Reader Review

THE CELLAR HOUSE

T

HE CELLAR HOUSE is usually pretty lively on a Saturday night. Couples, young families and the older generation all happily enjoying a night out for a drink or a meal.

My partner and I were looking forward to trying the menu and there’s plenty of choice for all tastes and palates – the main menu a great example of pub grub with extras. If you like to share and graze you can choose from 13 tasty tapas dishes, like patatas bravas, sticky honey and mustard chipolatas, and breaded halloumi fingers. Then there are the pub classics like fish and chips and steak and ale pie, vegan and veggie choices, lots of steaks and burgers from the grill and salads.

Senior chef Tich has also introduced his Afro Menu, which is very popular on a Friday and Saturday night. This is South African fusion and includes some interesting dishes like beef and kale stew with polenta, and Boerewors sausages.

To start, my fellow diner and I were treated to a sneak preview of the new summer menu, which is available from April. This was a fish sharing platter with a real ‘wow’ factor. Beautifully presented on a wooden platter, it was a fish lovers delight. Giant homemade cod fish fingers, crispy and wonderful April/May 2020 Vanilla

dipped in an excellent chunky tartar sauce, smoked salmon, salt and pepper squid, prawns in a Marie Rose sauce on toasted sourdough ciabatta, grilled prawn skewers, and some great mango salsa and salads. Very moreish, a generous portion and a meal in itself.

To follow, my partner chose from Tich’s menu; half a lemon and lime chicken, with Afro salad and sweet potato wedges. Again, gorgeous presentation on a wooden platter, tender chicken, nice avocado in the salad which added a richness, and the tart lemon and lime was an original touch. He washed it down with a refreshing glass of South African Chenin Blanc False Bay, which has lemon tones.

I had the Cauliflower tikka masala, served with jasmine rice,

poppadum and mango chutney.

Stunning to look at, not too spicy and a lovely salty poppadum on the side.

We had been very well fed, but we caught sight of the desserts coming through and decided to share one. Some nice choices; sticky toffee pudding, raspberry and almond tart, devil’s chocolate fudge cake, local ice creams and much more. We went for the strawberry and cream cheesecake, with strawberry ice cream. Not too sweet, creamy, and a lovely end to the meal. Attentive and polite service here too, courtesy of Jay and Dan. REVIEW: LUCY OHSTEN

l The Cellar House, Eaton Street, Norwich, NR4 7AB. The restaurant is currently closed but sandwiches, meals, beers, wine and coffee are all available.

Pay on the phone, and collect from the bar, or they will bring to your car! Give them a call on 01603 454511.

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FOOD

Melting into Easter

W

INTER IS WELL behind us now, and predictions for the Easter weekend are that it’s gonna be hot, hot, hot!!

Fantastic, just what we all need, and to go with that much-needed sun, what could be better than a mouthwatering ice cream?

Lakenham Creamery is hard at work producing enough of our favourite treat to meet demand over the heatwave. General Manager Damian Hunt has his finger on the pulse about what people want. “It’s funny that, in these times of sophisticated flavours, vanilla is still a firm favourite. I think it goes back to when we were young and there was just white or pink ice cream – vanilla or strawberry. These things are set in stone from an early age and never change.

“Having said that, the most popular flavour currently in

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the UK is mint choc chip. Ice cream flavours are subject to trends, just like anything else.

I remember when we brought out our salted caramel flavour years ago. We thought it was just a flash in the pan, but it has stuck around and is still hugely popular.

“People’s expectations are very interesting, and colour as well as flavour is very important.

In our Norfolk County range the mint choc chip flavour is white, and people have commented on it, because some expect mint ice cream to be green. But we do use a green mint paste in our Aldous range. We like to be unexpected and challenge people’s palates.”

And they have been doing just that for a long time. Next year, the Aldous brand celebrates its centenary, and the business will be pushing the boat out to

mark this momentous milestone.

“We’ll be creating some special flavours, and also reintroducing some that were popular many years ago, back in the 60s and 70s,” says Damian. “Aldous has been an integral part of Norwich’s history for so long and we are hugely proud of its heritage. We will really be waving the flag and there will be Aldous everywhere next year.”

Hurrah for ice cream, and the experts at Lakenham Creamery who keep this wonderful treat so deliciously alive. See you on the beach this Summer. What will your ice cream flavour be?

French Vanilla... Salted Peanut Butter... Rhubarb & Custard...

Blackcurrant & Apple... I could on! l For more information on the range of flavours available visit their website: www.lakenhamcreamery.co.uk

Vanilla April/May 2020

FOOD

L

© SYLVAINE POITAU

ATE SPRING and early summer herald the arrival of some fantastic fruit and veg, bringing colour, crunch and lighter meals as the weather warms up. Norfolk Veg Box brings the very freshest of produce to your doorstep, sourced from local farmers and growers and delivered in a sustainable way… with no singleuse plastics at all!

So what delicious fruit and veg can we expect to see over the next few months? Norfolk Veg Box owner, Richard Ewin, looks at the top picks he will be bringing to his customers:

SALAD DAYS ARE HERE AGAIN!

Asparagus – who doesn’t love these crisp green spears with a unique flavour? Their short season from April to June makes them even more precious and they are considered a delicacy. Known as sparrow grass in folklore, they are so versatile to eat, perfect lightly steamed, grilled or roasted, with Richard Ewin at Norfolk Veg Box a knob of butter on their own, as part of a salad, or with a poached Strawberries – the egg, prosciutto, parmesan quintessentially English fruit. I and hollandaise sauce. We get always feel a bit of excitement our produce from Portwood at strawberry time. With new Asparagus, who pick every day technology and growing methods, so we can get them into our strawberries are available earlier veg boxes and out to customers than in the past, so we will start straight away. to deliver them to customers from May. A plate of these New potatoes – you know glossy beauties just as they are summer is on the way when new is a simple pleasure, but if you potatoes arrive, and they will be want to push the boat out you here from early June onwards. I can enjoy them with cream, love Maris Peer, a smaller relative ice cream, or a twist of freshly of Maris Piper. They have a skin ground black pepper to bring out you can easily brush off with your fingers, they are a handy size, and the sweetness. have a superb flavour and creamy Salads – there is no excuse for a texture. I love them just boiled and finished with a bit of butter. boring salad these days, with an April/May 2020 Vanilla

endless choice of lettuce varieties and leaves to add colour and flavour. We put a wide range in our veg boxes, everything from the humble Iceberg, to Cos, Lolla Rossa, Oakleaf, Romaine and Little Gem. I favour Little Gems because they are small, last a long while and have a great flavour. We also do a Lettuce Variety Pack, which contains six individual growing lettuce plants, so you can keep them on your windowsill and have your own little salad patch. Enjoy!

l For more information on what Norfolk Veg Box offer visit their website: norfolkvegbox.com

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GRILL ♦ TAPAS ♦ STEAKS ♦ SEAFOOD ♦ WINE ♦ COCKTAILS

Local seasonal produce Single-use plastic free Freshness guaranteed

For more information please call:

01953 457393 or 07712 443463

or visit www.norfolkvegbox.com

NEW TAKEAWAY MENU Enjoy a fantastic menu of Portuguese delights with our new takeaway & delivery service, ‘Jorge’s To Go’ SERVING SEVEN DAYS A WEEK Lunch: 11:30 - 3:30pm & Dinner: 5pm - 9pm

FREE !

DELI TO YV ERY O DOO U R R

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SELF-SERVICE WINE BAR BRISTON

Explore our ever-changing selection of wines in a relaxed setting along with a delicious menu of sharing boards & antipastis

36 EXCHANGE ST, NORWICH NR2 1AX

West End • Briston • Norfolk • NR24 2HY 01263 862312 www.bristonhorseshoes.co.uk

Monday to Thursday: 10am – 11pm Friday & Saturday: 10am – Midnight Sunday: 10am – 6pm 01603 446676

 hello@wallowwine.co.uk

FOOD

‘Takeaway’ your tastebuds to Portugal

© ELEANOR SANTOS

I

N THESE challenging times, we are all having to make adjustments to our ordinary lives. One of the things we take for granted is going out for a meal, but how do we carry on enjoying the restaurant food we love now that self and social isolating has become the norm?

Jorge’s Portuguese Restaurant, in Orford Yard, has become a popular eatery, thanks to its amazing food. But with this new crisis, they have launched a brand new takeaway and delivery service, called ‘Jorge’s To Go’, so customers can enjoy their fantastic menu of Portuguese delights, while still keeping a safe distance.

Eleanor Santos, owner and marketing manager at Jorge's, says: “In all this turmoil, we wanted to create a bit of good news, and Jorge’s To Go means customers can still eat our wonderful food, but in their own home. Being stuck in the house for a while we will all crave a delicious treat, and our new service can deliver just that.

“Diversifying into a takeaway service will also help us to ensure our fantastic, loyal staff remain safe, paid and employed. We will also be offering free coffee to NHS and emergency workers, plus a 20% discount when they

April/May 2020 Vanilla

order takeaway directly from us throughout the crisis.

“We have selected some of our most popular dishes to create the special Jorge’s To Go menu.

This includes some great tapas, like spicy, sticky Chicken Wings, Pica-Pau Pork Tenderloin, Ratatouille, Alheira Croquettes and a delicious combo of Iberico Ham, Black Pork Ham and a cheese selection. Then there’s our Traditional Chorizo, served with rustic bread, and some superb seafood, such as tender Squid in Tomato Sauce, crispy Cod Fishcakes and a Seafood Salad.

“From the grill, we have a choice of Black Pork Secretos, Chicken Piri Piri and Chargrilled Pork Ribs and Steaks, and much more. Add a few side dishes and a bottle of wine and you’re good

to go. There really is no need for your tastebuds to go without.”

Well done Jorge’s, for finding a positive and practical solution for their customers, staff and for their own business. We will carry on eating your delicious food for the duration. ■ TAKEAWAY MENU Serving seven days a week.

Lunch: 11:30 - 3:30pm Dinner: 5pm - 9pm.

Payment must be made upfront online. Contactless pick-up can be requested and pick-up arranged from our courtyard.

Delivery is within a three-mile radius of Jorge’s, but this may increase depending on how the takeaway launch goes.

Visit Jorge’s website to order: jorgesrestaurant.co.uk/menus

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FOOD

£100 TO SPEND ON DINING OUT!

WIN! Yes Chef!

M

at intu Chapelfield in Norwich

ake the most of warmer days, lighter evenings and time together this summer, by grabbing a relaxed bite to eat atfor intu Easter Chapelfield Perfect shopping centre, Norwich. entertaining this Pop in to shop and stay for an alfresco eveningis meal with year which likely friends, or dine out with the whole to beafter a small family family getting those backto-school essentials. loads gathering or aWith meal of restaurants to choose from, forcan two! you easily find something delicious to tempt even the fussiest of eaters.

There’s Ask Italian for the freshest pasta, pizza and salads, GBK and Byron for a great tasting burger, Ed’s Easy Diner for American-inspired classics, Yo! Sushi for2 Japanese street food and SERVES:

Duck Breast, Roast Squash and Pearl Barley Risotto

2 Gressingham duck breasts ½ red onion, sliced 350g of diced butternut squash 2 cloves garlic, crushed

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sushi dishes, Wagamama for those nutty about noodles plus familyfavourite Pizza Hut. Utter the words ‘ice cream factory anyone?’

125g pearl barley, cooked in and to guarantee squeals of delight boiling watersmiles for 40on minutes andof the faces the biggest drained little ones. And with a brand-new Vegan with sharing pizzas, 1 glassmenu, white wine cinnamon bites for dessert and 1 chicken stock cube kids’ Vegan options too, everyone 2 tbsps olive oil can tuck in at Pizza Hut. 50g butter Feeling peckish? Then enter ½ chilli, de-seeded and fijust nely thisred competition.

You might sliced win a £100 intu Chapelfield gift 4 sage sliced card to leaves, spend fiinnely a restaurant of your choice.

1 Score the fat on the duck breasts with a sharp knife.

2 Heat a pan, and sprinkle in a fine layer of salt (no oil), then add the duck breasts skin side down and turn down the heat to let the fat slowly render out until the skin is golden and crispy 3 Fry the butternut squash in the olive oil on a low heat until

it starts to soften, then add the sliced onion and garlic and cook Spinach & Ricotta Girasole at Ask for a further 5 minutes on a low heat until it softens.

HOW TO ENTER 4 When the skin is crispy, drain Question: Which intu Chapelfield the excess fat and place it in the restaurant has recently launched oven at 180°C and cook for 6 a new Vegan menu? minutes.

Email your entry, stating name, 5 Add the white telephone wine and address, daytime chicken stock to theto:squash, number and answer onion and garlic and bring to the competitions@vanillaboil, then tip in the cooked magazine.co.uk. Please putpearl barley and Gift heatCard’ through until the ‘£100 intu in the liquid has reduced. subject line of your email. Don’t 6 In athough separate pancompetition heat the delay – the butter, sage andSeptember! chilli until closes on 30th melted.

7 Season the squash risotto to taste and then serve into bowls, carve the duck breast and place on top and drizzle the dish with the sage and chilli butter.

Vanilla April/May 2020

Get out!

Let’s hope it’s soon

Grease

The Book of Mormon

THEATRE

by a fresh young cast who bring energy, vitality and passion to this ultimate musical classic. *Peter Andre will be performing the role on Wed, Thu, Fri & Sat. Tickets £10-£49.50

knowledge that if there are still restrictions in place in September, then we would look to reschedule The Book of Mormon to a future date or issue refunds.”

Tickets £10-£65

8-19 SEPTEMBER

21-26 MARCH

The nine-time Tony Award and four-time Olivier winning Best Musical.

This outrageous musical comedy from creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, and Bobby Lopez co-writer of Avenue Q and Frozen, follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent on a mission to a place that’s about as far from Salt Lake City as you can get.

A Message From Stephen Crocker, Norwich Theatre Chief Executive: “We’d like to reassure customers that they can book safe in the

Following their phenomenal rise to global success with The Play That Goes Wrong, The Comedy About a Bank Robbery and Peter Pan Goes Wrong, multi awardwinning Mischief Theatre return on tour with their brand new comedy all about growing up. ★★★★ ‘Comedy perfection …An auditorium of all ages nearly choked themselves to death laughing’ Daily Mail ★★★★ ‘A very funny farce. There’s no resisting gags of this calibre’ Sunday Times Tickets £10-£33.50

Norwich Theatre is in the process of working with promoters and producers to explore all options for rescheduling shows for this Spring and early Summer.

Where shows cannot be rescheduled cancellations will be announced and customers contacted on a show-by-show basis.

For further information and updates, please see www. norwichtheatre.org

Norwich Theatre Royal coming soon 17-22 AUGUST

Grease

The world’s best-loved musical is back! Grittier and more glamorous than ever before.

With its phenomenal score, bursting with hits including Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’, Hopelessly Devoted to You and You’re the One That I Want, this thrilling new version is brought to life April/May 2020 Vanilla

The Book of Mormon

The Dresser

Groan Ups

6-10 OCTOBER

The Dresser Inspired by memories of working as Donald Wolfit’s dresser as a young man, Ronald Harwood’s evocative, affectionate and hilarious portrait of backstage life is one of the most acclaimed dramas of modern theatre.

It is 1942 and in a wartorn provincial theatre an ageing actor manager is struggling to cling on to his sanity and complete his two hundred and twenty seventh performance of King Lear.

It is down to Norman, his devoted dresser, to ensure that in spite of everything, the show goes on.

Norman will be played by one of the UK’s most unique and best loved entertainers, Julian Clary. Playing ‘Sir’ will be Matthew Kelly, winner of an Olivier Award for Of Mice and Men. Tickets £10-£39.50 www.norwichtheatre.org

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Get out!

Our Man in Havana

THEATRE Maddermarket Theatre 17-25 JULY NORWICH PLAYERS

Our Man In Havana A mad-cap satire about life in Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

It’s Cuba, 1958, at the height of the cold war.

Salsa music sizzles, and Jim Wormold, a failing vacuum cleaner salesman is struggling to pay for his teenage daughter’s extravagant lifestyle.

So when the British Secret Service ask him to become their ‘Man in Havana’, he naturally accepts. There’s just one problem. He knows absolutely nothing. But Wormold is nothing if not resourceful. He simply invents information and a web of entirely fictional agents… only to discover that his stories are closer to the truth than he imagined.

Tickets from £11 www.maddermarket.co.uk

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Ruby Wax

ENTERTAINMENT HIGHLIGHTS Norwich Playhouse 23-27 AUGUST

Ruby Wax

Based on her bestselling book, Ruby’s new show How To Be Human answers every question you’ve ever had about evolution, thoughts, emotions, the body, addictions, relationships, sex, kids, the future and compassion.

Outrageously witty and smart, blending brilliant comedy and insightful life lessons, How To Be Human is the show you need to help you upgrade your mind as much as you’ve upgraded your iPhone.

7.30pm £20 THURSDAY 3 SEPTEMBER

Mark Thomas: 50 Things About Us

Mark uses his trademark style of storytelling, stand-up, subversion and really, really, well researched material to

Mark Thomas

try and find out how the hell we ended up in the middle of this shit show.

50 Things About Us is a show about songs, gongs, loot, tradition, wigs, nicking, statues, art and identity. A sort of funny national edition of Who Do You Think You Are? 8pm. £12.50/£17.50 MONDAY 7 SEPTEMBER

Ben Hart

Britain’s Got Talent 2019 finalist, West End star and multi award-winning magician Ben Hart is embarking on his debut solo tour.

Described by David Walliams as ‘the living embodiment of magic’, Ben has recently played to royalty, heads of state and celebrities, in West End theatres, international arenas and on dozens of UK and international TV appearances (including his own series on BBC Three, The One Show and BBC One’s Now You See It.) 7.30pm

Ben Hart

THURSDAY 3 SEPTEMBER

Arabella Weir: Does My Mum Loom Big in This?

For everyone who’s had a mother or been a mother, featuring hair-raising hilarious true stories from Arabella’s dysfunctional childhood, her perilous career and her life as a single working mother.

Devastatingly funny, excruciatingly honest, this is a helter-skelter tour of appalling – and appallingly funny – maternal behaviour.

7.30pm.

MONDAY 7 SEPTEMBER

Bridget Christie

The Edinburgh Comedy Award, Rose d’Or and South Bank Sky Arts Award winner presents her highly-anticipated brand new show. Join Bridget as she tries to work out who she is and see her tell one of the most expensive and dangerous jokes in the history of stand-up.

8pm. £18.50 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk

Vanilla April/May 2020

LOVE YOUR LOCALS

Fitness Superstore 1-7 St Stephens Rd, Norwich 01603 980380

Albrow and Sons Ltd 10 All Saints Green, Norwich 01603 622569

The Giggly Goat 20 Lower Goat Lane, Norwich 01603 663299

Amika 32 Red Lion St, Aylsham 01263 734548 Arbons Carpet & Flooring 94 Colman Rd, Norwich 01603 443588 www.arbons.co.uk Bam & Arrow Strattons Hotel, 2 Ash Close, Swaffham 01760 723845 British Mouldings 8 Hurricane Way, Norwich 01603 980444 Cafe Gelato 6 Opie St, Norwich 01603 662527 Cecil Amey 22 Haymarket, Norwich 01603 626346 cecilameyopticians.co.uk The Cellar House 2 Eaton St, Eaton, Norwich 01603 454511 Concept Bathroom & Kitchens Concept House, Roundtree Way, Norwich NR7 8SH 01603 787578

APRIL

/ M AY

Isobel's Boutique 14 School Rd, Drayton, Norwich 01603 866060 John Lewis & Partners All Saints Green, Norwich 01603 660021 Jorge’s 2-3, Orford Yd, Red Lion St, Norwich 01603 764441 The Kitchenary Taverham Craft Centre Fir Covert Rd, Taverham, Norwich NR8 6HT 01603 261932 MKM Building Supplies Vulcan Rd N, Norwich, 01603 258290 Max Giammello Hair & Beauty 122 Ber St, Norwich 01603 416799

The Norfolk Workshop Unit 1, North Norfolk Business Centre, Northrepps, Crossdale Street, Cromer NR27 9RQ 01263 510315 Norfolk Veg Box Co. Watton Rd, Attleborough NR17 1LB 01953 457393 Norfolk Yarns 11 Pottergate, Norwich NR2 1DS 01603 927034 www.norfolkyarn.co.uk Oculus 16 All Saints Green, Norwich 01603 763764 The Other Curator Norwich Market Stand 138 & 139 01953 860512 Paint & Paper Ltd 11 Hellesdon Park Rd, Norwich NR6 5DR 01603 400777 Party & Prom Jubilee House, The Sreet, Long Stratton, Norwich 01508 218050 Posh Plants Seven Acres, Common Rd, East Tuddenham, Dereham NR20 3NF. 07703 347014 Robert Oliver 238 Sprowston Road, Norwich, NR3 4HT 01603 661220 01603 958868

Ross Campbell Dentist 36 Surrey St, Norwich 01603 660758 Salt Interior Design 07714 321987 www.saltinteriors.co.uk Sin Sins Boutique of Love 14 St Benedicts St, Norwich 07738 241822 Sonkai Jewellers Royal Arcade, Norwich 01603 625533 St Giles House Hotel 41-45 St Giles St St, Norwich 01603 275185 Schmidt Kitchens 7 The Lastings, Hall Rd, Norwich 01603 574157 StandenMay Hair 1 Magdalen St, Norwich 01603 616396 The Style Show 8 Eaton Street, Eaton, Norwich 01603 393286 The Tannery 12-14 Exchange St, Norwich 01603 661600 Therapyinc 8 Exchange St, Norwich 01603 305832 Thorns DIY 22 Exchange St, Norwich 01603 622891 The Wallow 36 Exchange St, Norwich 01603 446676

If you would like to advertise in Vanilla please get in touch email: nicky@vanilla-magazine.co.uk tel: 07730 436426

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Milly J Shoes 12 Tombland, Norwich 07973 956482

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2020

House of Aesthetics 9 Buckenham Road, Aylsham, NR11 6GB 07919 104965

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NORWICH EDITIO

N

73

Mike Read Landscape gardener and designer

Professional landscaper and garden designer Mike Read is the owner of Perfect Plantings, a traditional, family-run nursery in Weston Longville. He runs the business with his son, Ryan, and together they have created a haven for plant lovers.

How did Perfect Plantings start?

I’ve been doing garden landscaping for 30 years, and this has naturally led to me being interested and involved in the planting side. We are not open to the public like a garden centre, so people can’t come and have look around. What I offer is a complete service of designing gardens for customers, sourcing the plants and then putting them in. I call it ‘softscaping.’ It’s a very precise and finely honed process.

What sets you apart from other nurseries?

I think what makes us different is that we have chosen a range of plants that are tried and tested in the garden; the most reliable and hardy grasses, shrubs, flowering plants and trees. We know what works, what will grow, and can advise customers on how to get the very best from their garden

well into the future. We have recently launched the mail order side of the business, so people anywhere in the country can order plants from us online. We have customers from all over the UK, so I often design gardens ‘remotely’ for them. I draw up plans, select the plants and then send them for a third party to put in.

What are your top tips for getting the best out of the garden?

Know what your plants need in

terms of space, soil type and their size at maturity.

You have to give them room to grow and know what they will look like in 10-15 years. It’s a case of right plant, right place.

Just because you love a plant, it might not be right for your garden. Do your research and think ahead.

What do you do when you're not working?

I like to go to the cinema, watch football and take the occasional holiday abroad. Work does keep me very busy, but we all need a little down time.

What do you love about Norwich?

The history is amazing and I love to be in the old parts of the city.

I’m not a great one for shopping, but Norwich is a very special place with its own atmosphere and there is so much to see.

What are your hidden gems in the city?

I like a pint, and the Murderers is one of my favourite watering holes. Bill’s restaurant does great food and has a nice atmosphere. I love a curry, too, and Merchant’s of Spice can’t be beaten. ■ For more information on the services provided by Mike, visit www.perfectplantings.co.uk

LOOK OUT FOR THE NEXT ISSUE OF VANILLA >> JUNE 2020

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Vanilla April/May 2020

© SYLVAINE POITAU

My City Life

For laughs (and likes).

Enjoy a fun-filled day of shopping, eating and meeting friends.

Š 2020 intu properties plc

Here for life