Dluxe Birmingham & Solihull Summer 2017 Issue 24

LU E D X BIRMINGHAM & SOLIHULL

ISSUE 24

THEWedding

ISSUE

SUMMER STYLE

BIRMINGHAM BITES! HONEYMOON

HOTSPOTS

special

CAMERON talks MACINTOSH

MISS SAIGON HARVEY NICHOLS, ROFUTO & PRAZA OH MY!

YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY

DLUXE-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

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A

dluxe edit

Letter Editor from the

Hello and welcome to the Summer edition of dluxe BIRMINGHAM & SOLIHULL magazine. At the time of writing, I’m melting. It would seem – for today at least – that Summer has arrived and I, for one, plan to grab it with both hands and find a beer-garden or cocktail terrace to de-camp to this evening. Few things can beat a glass of something chilled at sunset.

With this in mind, I’ll keep my letter concise. I want to welcome you to this Anniversary Edition of dluxe BIRMINGHAM & SOLIHULL. Who would’ve thought that in just five years, we’d witness such incredible growth in our business, but also in the city – or is that vice versa? Either way, we’ve enjoyed reporting on the blindingly brilliant things about Brum and feel privileged to be doing so. Thank You. What I don’t always tell you about is our online and social media content. Because there is so much going on ALL THE TIME, we don’t always have space to squeeze it into the magazine, so you should always head over to our website and social media platforms for exclusive stories, online-only content or see enhanced versions of what you’ve enjoyed in print. Over a million people read our iPad version of dluxe last year and we’re regularly reaching over 130,000 people each month on social media, so if you’re not already logging on, you’re missing out. Big time. :-P

Cover Imagery by White Stuff

Being a bit jazz-handy (is this a word?), we were especially excited to interview the inimitable, theatre-heavyweight, Cameron McIntosh, ahead of his spellbinding Miss Saigon production hitting the Hippodrome. We’ve also scoured the region for our annual Wedding Guide, which is jampacked with quirky ideas to make your wedding spectacular – from venues to rings and all inbetween.

As well as this, we have our much-loved regulars such as our Arts guide, Bar & Restaurant guide – including reviews of Rofuto and Praza’s Indian Afternoon Tea – plus an enhanced travel section featuring Honeymoon Hotspots and reviews from Styria and Faro.

We also bring you society pics from recent events at Tommy Hilfiger, Paul Smith, Hyatt Regency, Siamais and Colmore Curry Club.

So, I say, let’s crack open the bubbly and toast our great City and region. Birmingham, we’re very proud to call you home and here’s to an exciting year ahead.

Jonathan Fraser Group Editor In Chief

We can’t wait for...

3.

1.

5.

Christopher Build up your appetities Nolan’s as The Colmore Food film of the Dunkirk Festival returns to evacuations starring the city from the Tom Hardy is set 30 June to 1 July. to be unmissable cinema this Summer.

2.

Never have we longed for Winter to arrive in the middle of Summer!

Season 7 of Game of Thrones, comes to Sky Atlantic on the 17th July.

4 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

FOLLOW US: @dluxemag on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter

4.

Number one bestseller, Philippa Gregory returns with more historical fiction with The Last Tudor released on the 8 Aug.

5. Sunset Boulevard comes to Birmingham Hippodrome from the 13 - Sat 18 Nov starring the wonderful Ria Jones and the divine Danny Mac- we’re ready for our close up

Garden LIVING

AT LEEKES

Al fresco Entertaining..

Get set to embrace the great outdoors with the stylish collection of garden furniture and accessories at Leekes.

Enhance your space and choose from our extensive selection of new season cast aluminium and weave furniture from leading brands plus discover the range of vibrant picnicware - ideal for al fresco entertaining!

FOR

120 YEARS 1897 – 2017

Leekes Coventry, Junction 3 M6, W.Mids. CV6 6PA

Tel: 0333 222 4120 | Online: leekes.co.uk

CONTENTS...

08 THE EDIT Our personal picks of our favourite features, stories and products this season.

20 SPOTLIGHT We chat exclusively to Cameron Mackintosh as he prepares for Miss Saigon to come to Birmingham.

24 WEDDINGS The dluxe guide to your dream wedding. We look at everything from venues to rings, catering and of course the all important dress…

30 FOR HER All the season’s key looks

condensed plus we look at how to choose the perfect swimwear to suit your shape.

34 FOR HIM From choosing the perfect

pair of sunnies to how to dress for success whilst staying cool in the city.

38 LIVING Bringing the outdoors in and coastal style for summer living.

44 TRAVEL We look at some of the best Honeymoon Hotspots.

50 MOTORS Legendary sixties sportscar

brand Alpine are back and we can’t wait to drive one.

52 DINING Summer duck from Harvey Nichols, Rofuto reviewed and the inside scoop on the cities big new restaurant openings.

58 DIARY What’s happening and what’s

happened in and around Brum this summer.

Your diary will thank you for reading this.

70 PAPERWORK The latest thinking

and topic led business advice from some of the cities top business brains.

74 PEOPLE We talk to Tom Kitchen’s

GET IN TOUCH

founder Tom Aikens

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Andy Winfield Andy@fu-media.co.uk 07557 042996

MANAGING DIRECTOR Kevin Urquhart Kevin@fu-media.co.uk 07713 740 272

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Lilith Hunt-Sheppard lilith@fu-media.co.uk 07975 970711

DIGITAL CONTENT EXECUTIVE Francesca Arculeo Francesca@fu-media.co.uk 0116 2533 445

GROUP EDITOR IN CHIEF Jonathan Fraser Jon@fu-media.co.uk 0772 580 9654

ACCOUNTS & ADMINISTRATION Carey York carey@fu-media.co.uk 0116 2533 445

LAYOUT & DESIGN Stephen Goddard stephen@kukucreative.co.uk 07580 136693

Disclaimer: Copyright 69 & dluxe BIRMINGHAM & SOLIHULL No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of the publishers. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy in compiling this publication, the Publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, omissions, breach of copyright or otherwise since compilation. The Publisher cannot be held responsible for any material submitted to the publication, not excluding advertisements. The views expressed within this title are not necessarily the views of the Publisher. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply recommendation by the Publisher. © 69 Magazine Ltd 2016

FOR EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES CONTACT: DLUXE BIRMINGHAM & SOLIHULL HQ 31 Rutland St, Leicester LE1 1RE TEL: 0116 2533 445 6 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

info@fu-media.co.uk / www.dluxe-magazine.co.uk @dluxemag

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DLUXE

PARTY ON PUPS Children aren’t the only ones being lavished with extra special birthday celebrations as new research reveals 75% of pet owners celebrate their dog’s special day.

A new study by Lily’s Kitchen, Creators of proper food for pets found that over half of doting dog owners admits to throwing a birthday bash for their pup, and nearly 60% howl out the iconic ‘Happy Birthday’ musical number to their dogs on their special day. Pooch parents are happy to splash the cash when birthdays roll around, with almost two thirds of those surveyed spending more than £10 on gifts and decorations, making sure their hound has the celebration it deserves.

When it comes to the all-important birthday meal, more than half of owners prepare a special birthday feast for their canine companion, based on their own favourite meal. Meat loaf, fish cakes and chicken stew are just a few homemade doggy dinner favourites.

This increased humanisation of our four-legged friends has led to a growing demand for more occasion- based pet products, including celebratory dog meals and treats made with premium ingredients. Lily’s Kitchen has responded to pet parents wanting to celebrate their dog’s “adopted day” or birthday with the launch of ‘Birthday Surprise’; the first ever party-perfect meal for dogs made from three different fresh cuts of steak, potatoes, broccoli and herbs.

According to the study, spoiling our dogs on their birthday is all part of the deep “emotional connection ” we have with them; 41% of pet owners say they celebrate because “their dog is part of the family” and one in eight people feel that “their dog is like their child”.

The dluxe dogs can testify to its tastiness having devoured the special meal in seconds!

The Birthday Surprise gift box is £9.95 from www.lilyskitchen.co.uk and Amazon.co.uk dluxe-magazine.co.uk 9

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GO WILD IN THE COUNTRY!

Birmingham Hippodrome are asking visitors to escape to the countryside as their annual free festival Summer in Southside returns on Sat 17 & Sun 18 June with country capers, animal encounters and free farmyard fun whilst live music fills the air.

The Hippodrome Square will be transformed into a temporary Village Green complete with live Sheep Racing, Mini Farm, live performances and a host of colourful country characters. Say ooh arr to Farmer Giles on his travels through Southside, enjoy storytelling, music and song in the company of The Fabularium’s Reynard The Fox, the woodlands’ most infamous scoundrel – and move your hips to the beat of Bhanghra with Midlands based dance troupe; The Lions of Punjab.

Visitors to The Arcadian can look forward to a live performance from Folk Dance Remixed, a colourful and quirky collision of maypole, clog dancing, breakin’ and street dance.

Bringing a taste of the South Asian subcontinent to Southside are Jaivant Patel Dance with a high-energy dance piece incorporating Gujurati and Raas Garba folk, performed to a soundtrack of contemporary Bollywood dance. Joining them are the Rajasthan Heritage Brass Band with their vibrant celebration of the music and dance of Rajasthan and Secret City Arts Country Fayre Picnic – an interactive storytelling adventure inspired by Olde English folk takes with a contemporary twist.

Festival-goers are invited to carry on celebrating into the night-time with live music from Birmingham mega-folk band The Destroyers who will be bringing their trademark energy and madcap performance style to The Arcadian on Saturday evening.

On Sun 18 June, visitors can take a stroll through the country without leaving the Hippodrome Foyer with free activities, arts and crafts, miniature petting farm and a costume exhibition from Birmingham Royal Ballet. VR experts from Freemotely and South and City College will also be on hand to guide visitors through the landscapes of virtual reality.

This year’s festival will also feature a special performance from resident partners Birmingham Royal Ballet, pecking order with a special performance of ‘The Chicken Dance’ from La Fille mal gardee, the sunniest of summer ballets. They will be joined by The Black Eagles from Tanzania who present their highimpact acrobatic show set to a lively soundtrack of African music and Rogue Play with Taking Flight, an enchanting aerial display set to a soundscape of word and music.

Alongside a jam-packed programme of live events, festivalgoers can also take advantage of a Vintage Fairground complete with swing-boat rides, coconut shy and hook-aduck, animal-themed Face-painting and a mobile brasserie serving freshly made crepes, galettes, gourmet burgers, ice creams and barista coffee.

Seeing Summer in Southside off in signature style on the Sunday, visitors to the Showground can look forward to an action-packed Grand Finale featuring the most hotly-anticipated event in the countryside calendar, the Southside sheep race!

Find out more at birminghamhippodrome.com 10 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

E S P R E S S O ON THE MOVE If you thought standard black Americano was the closest you would ever get to your beloved espresso when on the move, then think again.

Providing freshly pressed, frothy topped espresso shots at your fingertips, the Minipresso Portable Espresso Maker from The Fowndry is full of cutting edge technology to create barista style shots and brews full-bodied coffee at 116 psi – the same pressure as traditional espresso machines.

All you have to do is pop off the top and bottom caps, add your ground coffee or capsule for the Minipresso Nespresso, add hot water, and pump into the espresso cup included. Once finished all the pieces cleverly fit back together to give you a single, light and versatile coffee maker that can be taken anywhere.

The Minipresso’s easily fits in bags and pockets and due to the hand-pump feature, no electricity is required, meaning no worrying about charging or batteries whether you’re out in the wilderness or camping out at festivals.

The Minipresso Portable Espresso Maker is available online for £47.99 at thefowndry.com

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BIRMINGHAM’S HOTTEST NEW INDY STREET FROM NEW SEASON COLLECTIONS AND NEW MENUS, TO BRAND NEW OPENINGS, THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO EXPLORE BIRMINGHAM’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE DESTINATION, THE MAILBOX. WELCOME TO BIRMINGHAM Having opened in December, Tom’s Kitchen Birmingham has already become one of the city’s favourite spots.

Serving up an unmissable selection of British classics, it’s the simple ethos of using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients that makes it a must-visit. Having chosen Birmingham for its foodie reputation, and diverse mix of people, this is the first UK opening outside of London for critically acclaimed chef, Tom Aikens.

NRI

TOM’S KITCHEN

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Alongside the restaurant, there’s another eatery branding Tom’s name in the Mailbox, with the opening of Tom’s Kitchen Deli. Found in the Urban Room, it’s the perfect spot for food lovers on the go. Open seven days a week, from breakfast through to after-work drinks, the freshly prepared and seasonal daily menu includes sandwiches, soups, homemade cakes, snacks and more, so you can upgrade your lunch break in style.

RIBBLE

Mailbox With all bikes designed and built here in the UK, you can rest assured that they’re designed to go the distance, whether you’re taking on a cycling challenge this year or just a keen social rider. As the bike brand that Olympian Bradley Wiggins started his cycling career with, head in-store at the Mailbox now to explore the impressive selection of road, leisure and track bicycles.

Not to be missed is Harvey Nichols’ Wine Wednesdays. Staged in the striking Wine Shop at the Mailbox store, pull up a stool at the bespoke wine tasting tables under the wine glass chandelier and let Harvey Nichols’ wine specialist Siofra O’Brien guide you through two wines each Wednesday between 7pm and 8pm. From Australian Pinot Noirs to Harvey Nichols’ own label Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, enjoy complimentary wine tasting whilst sampling nibbles from a specially created cheese board.

COFFEE BREAK

MORE AT THE MAILBOX

HARVEY NICHOLS

Plus, with the Mailbox being the first city centre car park to introduce a contactless payment system, including Apple Pay, there’s never been a better time to shop at the Mailbox.

There’s always time for coffee, and you’ll find it hard to resist the classic Italian blends on offer at the newly opened Caffè Nero. The elegant coffee shop, found on Level 3 of the Mailbox, is perfect for an on-the-go caffeine boost or leisurely lounging, with a selection of small bites and snacks on offer too. Whether it’s a morning latte or cappuccino on your commute, or a new meeting spot in the city, Caffè Nero is the perfect taste of Italy right here in Birmingham.

At the heart of the Mailbox, Harvey Nichols is the ultimate home of luxury retail. Showcasing over 200 of the world’s most desirable womenswear, menswear, beauty, food and wine brands in a unique shopping environment, there’s nowhere quite like Harvey Nichols anywhere else in the city. Focusing on delivering an unrivalled in-store experience, you’ll find the Concierge team on hand to help with any queries, whilst the

After hours, the Urban Room is often transformed into the setting for a number of exciting Mailbox events. From live demonstrations and product launches, to shopping events, fashion showcases, networking evenings and more, signing up to the free Mailbox newsletter ensures you have priority access to the latest events.

HARVEY NICHOLS

Joining Tom Aikens later this year will be twice Michelin-starred chef, Atul Kochhar, who will open his new restaurant concept – NRI by Atul Kochhar. Located in a high profile position at the front of the Mailbox, NRI by Atul Kochhar will span over 5,000 sq ft and will showcase high-quality but affordable spiced dishes that draw inspiration from everywhere Atul has ventured, from Malaysia and Japan to South Africa and beyond.

SPECIAL FEATURE expert team of stylists offer guidance on product size and fit, as well as outfit tips and trend inspiration.

The perfect destination for all your fashion, beauty and gift needs, shop the new season now at Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

PEDAL POWER

Joining an already exciting mix of lifestyle and homeware brands on Level 1 of the Mailbox, Ribble is a cyclist’s ideal destination. The stunning showroom is home to the award-winning collection of bikes, each with unmatched customisation to help you build your perfect ride.

TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST MAILBOX NEWS, OFFERS AND EVENTS, SIGN UP TO THE MAILBOX NEWSLETTER AT WWW.MAILBOXLIFE.COM , OR JOIN THE CONVERSATION ON SOCIAL MEDIA, @MAILBOXLIFE.

dluxe wishlist

SPECIAL FEATURE

COOKES CAUSE RIPPLES WITH NEW SHOWROOM

Choose greatness Amplify believes there’s great, and then there’s greatness. And that memorable is the enemy of unforgettable. It’s why it offers VIP hospitality at the Barclaycard Arena and Genting Arena like no other. Premium live experiences that don’t simply stand out, but offer outstanding choice and value.

As the summer hits, so does a fresh stream of Autumn and Winter show announcements, and Amplify has the best experiences ready and waiting for you with their ‘Freestyle’ package. Designed with single event hospitality in mind, this package offers a host of premium perks.

Luxury home retailer Cookes Furniture has created an all new hub of inspiring bathroom design at their Sutton Coldfield store with the unveiling of a new in house Ripples bathroom showroom.

Established in 1988, Ripples has become famed for creating beautiful bespoke bathrooms designed by a team of talented bathroom designers. The new showroom features inspirational displays that showcase versatile bathroom styles, from contemporary to traditional and everything in between.

Vanessa Hoe, Marketing Director at Cookes Furniture, said: ‘By introducing luxury bathrooms by Ripples to our family run business we now offer complete furniture solutions for every room in the home.”

Cookes, 28 Goosemoor Ln, Birmingham B23 5PN. Tel. 0121 250 5050 cookesfurniture.co.uk

Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary or corporate shindig, Amplify will take care of everything; from exclusive entrances and check in to pointing you straight to the VIP lounge for a few complimentary cocktails.

There’s a whole host of events now available, so whether you want to catch one of the hottest live acts such as John Legend, Lady Gaga or Lady Antebellum, prefer a laugh with the Impractical Jockers, or win brownie points with the family and see Disney On Ice-Passport To Adventure, with the Freestyle VIP package, greatness comes as a choice.

The Freestyle package includes benefits such as Category A ticket, VIP check in and private entrance, pre-show and interval access to the private lounge, free onsite parking and informal two course meal.

To view the full range of VIP hospitality experiences head to amplify.co.uk or call the team on 0844 338 0333

BEE INSPIRED BY BEEFAYRE Inspired by the traditional English Country garden and the plants that attract honeybees and other pollinators, the Beegarden range of scented candles from Beefayre are beautifully presented in colourful botanical prints designed to connect people with nature and the British countryside.

Beefayre is passionate about British wildlife and conservation and donates 3% of the company’s profits back into bee conservation projects.

Choose from six fragrances; Bluebell and Wood Anemone, Honey Lily, Hyacinth, Lime Blossom, Rhubarb and Raspberry and Watermint and Rosemary.

Candles start at £8 and are available from beefayre.com

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HAVEN LODGE | HAVEN PASTURES| HENLEY IN ARDEN | WARWICKSHIRE 4|

5|

guide price ÂŁ1,800,000

5 | EPC Rating: B

Haven Pastures is an exclusive collection of outstanding new build residences by Byrne Homes. Haven Lodge provides truly luxurious living for discerning buyers. Accessed via a private road, this stunning residence sits in a secluded, tranquil location in an elevated rural setting near Henley in Arden with extensive views over the Warwickshire countryside. With elegant freestanding baths in master en-suites and plenty of superior appliances concealed within contemporary bespoke kitchens, these impressive properties are sure to inspire.

Fine & Country Land and New Homes 970 Stratford Road, Solihull, B90 4ED +44 (0)121 285 5550 nhcentral@fineandcountry.com

NEW HOMES

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Colours of England We love Little Greene’s range of paints – they go on beautifully and we can vouch for how hardwearing their floorpaint is first hand! Now there’s even more choice as a revived and revitalized colour card has been unveiled comprising of 184 shades: 170 individual colours 14 of which are repeated in varying strengths as ‘Colour Scales’.

The card spans over 300 years of historic interior design and includes many authentic 18th, 19th and 20th century shadesthat sit harmoniously alongside contemporary shades conceived to meet the requirements of 21st century living. As a result, the card, whilst respectful of period architecture, is also completely in tune with modern life and today’s interior design aesthetics.

All shades on the ‘Colours of England’ colour card are available in the full range of paint finishes including their renowned Absolute Matt Emulsion is also now complemented by their new Flat Oil Eggshell, which is flatter than a regular eggshell having just a 10% sheen level.

Buy online or find your local stockist at www.littlegreene.com

STEP IN TIME AT SELFRIDGES Coming to Selfridges Birmingham this summer is the striking Daphnis Collection from Versace Timepieces.

The now iconic symbol of Versace features within the whole collection, as the pattern crosses the enamel or mother-of-pearl dial and continues along the length of the strap to the top ring.

Available in a feminine 35mm case size, the new Daphnis Collection features a brilliant round case shape, also donning the intricate Greek Key design. The Versace Medusa head sits at 12 o’clock on the Greca engraved dial.

There are six different strap styles to choose from including blue, black and white as well as an IP yellow gold or bi-metal bracelet strap. Prices start at £670@ Selfridges, Bullring.

ON CLOUDFLOW

For those serious about their sport, running brand On have launched an incredibly light and responsive training and competition shoe. On is a young Swiss sports company with a simple mission: make running fun.

The revolutionary On running shoe has already won the prestigious ISPO Brand New Award for innovation in sport. And it continues to garner further design and technology distinctions all over the world The new Cloudflow sports sneaker uses the latest generation of the awardwinning CloudTec sole which includes a record-breaking 18 Cloud elements to cushion and propel precisely where you need it.

Made of Zero Gravity foam they offer ultimate lightness.

The Cloudflow is priced at £120 and is available from Tri-1st, 293 Harborne Lane, & Realbuzz, 64 Stratford Road, Solihull.

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The Summer Fest is offering the people of Solihull the opportunity to experience the fun and excitement of a festival within their own town. With expected visitor numbers reaching 6,000 per day, this promises to be a fantastic event for all involved.

The festival line-up is now complete; featuring all-time favourites on Saturday 26th August such as Peter Andre, Lulu, Gabrielle and Lemar, as well as a blast from the past from Musical Youth, Reggie and Bollie from X Factor and world famous tribute artists Navi as Michael Jackson and The Upbeat Beatles.

Feeder will be headlining Sunday 27th August, with the return of The Wonder Stuff for a second year running. They will be joined

by The Pigeon Detectives, Toploader, The Noisettes, Andy Bennett from Ocean Colour Scene and local Solihull bands 2 Week’s Notice, Chasing Deer and The Wedding Crashers.

Children’s activities across the weekend will cater for all ages and include face painting, glitter tattoos, fun fair rides, mascots and Help Harry bracelet making.

Street food vendors will be providing a huge choice of great quality food to suit all tastes, accompanied by several bars to include Real Ale. For an extra sparkle, The Beech House will be running a festival prosecco and cocktail bar.

Exclusive VIP tickets include entry to the VIP area, a private bar, luxury toilets and gold circle access at the front of the stage.

Day tickets are just £30 for adults and £20 for children, with free entry for under 4 year olds.

Weekend tickets and family passes are also available. Please visit TheTicketFactory.com

WE’LL MEET

WHERE WE MAKE THE MOST OF SUMMER W E ’LL M E E T AT

SHOP. DINE. DISCOVER

dluxeedit

SOLIHULL SUMMERFEST

The Solihull Summer Fest returns to Tudor Grange Park over August bank holiday weekend 2017. Each day will run from 12 midday until 10pm with live music, food and drink stands, children’s entertainment and an exclusive VIP area.

SPECIAL FEATURE

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WHISKeY GALORE!

HOLIDAY HEROES

When it comes to what to pack in your holiday holdall then Tropic’s new summer collection has got it in the bag! An innovative range of summer skin solutions that are designed not to clog pores, cause breakouts, or leave stickiness but dry to a beautifully soft, powder finish. The new sunscreen range consists of Skin Shade Mineral Sun Protection (£28) in factor 15, 30 and 50 for the body, Tinted Skin Shade Mineral Facial Sun Protection (£24) in SPF 50, available in two shades to offer a lightweight coverage whilst protecting the skin, and Sun Balm (£16) in SPF 50. All have a mineral formulation that helps to prevent prickly heat and include kakadu and illawarra plum to synthesise new collagen production and regulate sebum production.

There’s also a new range of refreshing Body Washes with pH balanced formula that’s free from harsh toxic chemicals. All priced at £10, choose from Wild Mint, Lime and Pineapple, Mangosteen, Thyme and Mandarin or Frangipani, Star Anise and Tiare Flower .

Finishing off the range and leaving you looking sunkissed and stunning are a glistening Cream Highlighter (£18) for a dewy glow and Summer Goddess Shimmering Body Oil (£28), infused with organic virgin coconut and golden jojoba to add a show-stopping bronze shimmer to the skin.

Following the success of Spring’s Stourbridge festival, the Midlands Whisky Festival is set to return for a second stint on on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 September at thestudiobirmingham.

Tickets for the festival are already on sale, with a General Admission ticket including a branded nosing glass, brochure, and the opportunity to take part in intimate whisky talks costing £35 for Friday evening and £40 for Saturday. However, Saturday session tickets are currently available at an early bird rate of £35. A Combo Friday and Saturday sessions ticket which grants access to the festival over both days is priced at £70.

All tickets include a ‘Dream Dram Token’, which can be exchanged for a taste of one of the many premium whiskies on offer, some worth over £1000 per bottle. Additional tokens can be purchased on the day for £5.

Find out more or buy your wristband at www.whiskyfest.co.uk

THE Theory of Shopping AT THE FORT The Fort Shopping Park, Birmingham, has commissioned research in order to find out more about the way we shop. Results show that those surveyed would actually rather shop alone, amongst other key insights. The research findings are being brought to life through the out-of-town retail destination’s new campaign - ‘The Fort Theory of Shopping’ - which aims to inform shoppers on how to get the most out of their shopping trip.

It’s all about focusing on the job in hand when it comes to men and shopping – the survey revealed that more males said the word ‘productive’ would best describe their most recent shopping trip than females.

The survey targeting UK adults, who shop at a shopping centre at least once a month, was conducted in order to dig deep into the mind of the consumer. The research shows that how people like to shop, doesn’t always tally up with how people actually do shop.

It was revealed that the most favoured preference from shoppers surveyed, was to go it alone by shopping solo; the second most popular scenario was to shop with their partners. In contrast to preferences, those surveyed are actually more likely to shop with their partner than alone.

Marjan Horne, manager of The Fort said: “As a shopping centre manager I have always found shopping habits and behaviours fascinating.

This campaign has revealed some really interesting results which we’re excited to share - I think many of you will resonate with the findings! We’re keen to get the conversation going and find out what our shoppers’ thoughts are on the way that they shop.”

The Fort also delved into the different shopping behaviours of males and females and discovered that 60% of polled female shoppers shop ‘to treat themselves’ vs only 27% of males.

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Another key insight that the research unearthed was - the larger the shopping group, the more money and time they spent. Those who went shopping alone found it more boring but more productive than any other grouping. Fun, or fruitful – the choice is yours!

The Fort Shopping Park is located 15 minutes from Birmingham city centre, offers free parking and includes anchors Next, Boots, River Island and Primark, plus a selection of restaurants such as Nando’s and Frankie and Benny’s. Visit the Fort website at www.thefort.co.uk

THE FORT

Theory of Shopping

Shopping . . . d e n i a l p x e WWW.THEFORT.CO.UK

J6/M6 BIRMINGHAM B24 9FP

WELCOME TO

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DREAMLAND In a career that has spanned over fifty years, Cameron Mackintosh has produced more musicals than anyone else in history, including the three longest-running musicals of all time, Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera and Cats, which are still running extraordinarily successfully across the world. His latest project , a new production of Boublil and Schönberg’s legendary musical Miss Saigon has been a recent smash hit in the West End and is about to embark on a major UK Tour calling at Birmingham’s Hippodrome this Summer. DLUXE Magazine’s Jonathan Fraser caught up with Cameron to discuss just what it takes to produce a hit and after fifty years just how hands-on he is in the process.

The excitement around Miss Saigon’s tour has been immense. What do you think is at the heart of the show’s success?

Ever since audiences first saw “Miss Saigon” in London in 1989, the British public have embraced this contemporary but timeless story, spectacularly staged with an extraordinary score by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg. In 1989, it was only about 14 years after the Vietnam war and therefore, it was very much considered an American story. Over the ensuing 28 years, sadly, numerous wars all over the world such as in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, the Balkans and the Ukraine have happened and the story of innocent or ordinary people caught in the background of war now involves the whole world.

What can audiences look forward to?

The new version had a wonderfully successful two year run in London, and has recently opened on Broadway where it was nominated for Best Musical Revival at the 2017 Tony Awards. In some ways, it is even more gritty and powerful than the original, with the same enormous cast, so there’s a lot to look forward to.

Part of the problem of success is that it can take you away from actually doing the thing that you love. Do you still manage to be hands on? Is that important for you?

I’ve been so lucky with my career in choosing to work on subjects that the public have also liked and so several of my key productions continue to find new audiences and therefore, to my astonishment, I have been able to build up my production company with such brilliant people that I am able to concentrate mostly on the art whilst everyone else does an amazing job ensuring that wherever we create shows around the world, they are as good as if I was there all the time. In truth, 90% of the actual work is done by my brilliant team, enabling me to have the time to be hands on where it matters.

You’ve been producing Musicals now for almost 50 years, why do you think audiences love them so much?

The main reason I think my shows keep attracting audiences is that the subject matters that I am drawn to are timeless and continue to appeal to audiences both in the UK and around the world.

Your career is peppered with record breaking shows and firsts, what do you think are the ingredients for a successful show?

I have no idea what the ingredients for a successful show are! I’ve always followed the mantra that I put on something I love, do it as well as I can and hope that the audience like what I like. So far, I’m very lucky that I’ve been more right than wrong. What attracts me to work on a specific musical are the characters followed by a good score.

For me, the story is everything and a song that doesn’t help a story to be told, even though it might be a great tune, isn’t enough.

At what point do you know a show’s going to be a hit?

I really don’t know if a show is going to be a real hit until after it opens and how wide the appeal is of the particular subject. You can have a show which is on for a short time and does incredibly well but doesn’t have the broad appeal of “Les Miserables” or “The Phantom of the Opera”. Very few shows have that kind of enduring appeal and lots of shows that are worthwhile doing and get done very well, are only destined to have a certain length of run and there’s nothing wrong with that.

What’s your favourite part of the process?

My favourite part of the process is working with the authors to get the material in shape dluxe-magazine.co.uk 21

dluxe edit to hand over to the director, choreographer and designers and then coming back into the theatre once the creative team have got the show on its feet and fine tuning the disparate elements of the show because however much one pre-plans, one can never judge what one is doing until you get the chemistry of the actors on stage playing to a live audience.

What’s the most nerve racking stage?

The most nerve racking part is usually the grinding of the technical period. What might have been delightful in the rehearsal room has to find the right place within the huge mechanics of putting on a musical and then working in front of the audience.

“I rarely put myself through the butterflies of opening night”

Do you still get opening night butterflies?

Yes and no. Of course, one wants everything to be a success but I have been doing it long enough now that I know that there comes a point before you open where you have to let the show go on for the audience to give its reaction, so I rarely put myself through the butterflies of opening night - I’m more out of the auditorium than in it and it is at that point that fate takes over.

What show have you been most proud of?

I’m very proud of most of my shows otherwise I wouldn’t do them. I have had probably more long running hits than anyone else. I just consider myself incredibly fortunate that so many people continue to like the work that I have done around the world and I am very proud of that.

One of the joys of success is that it opens up other avenues – you own and have been actively restoring 8 theatres in Londonis that a big passion for you now?

Architecture has always been my passion, ever since I appreciated the difference between a one bedroom flat and a house. Having gone to school in Bath, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, I have learnt to appreciate design. However, as a schoolboy I only dreamt of becoming a producer and therefore it is only because of the huge success I have had through my productions that I have been able to afford to buy some theatres when I was offered them. It was the late great impresario Lord Bernard Delfont who first suggested that I buy two of his theatres as his family no longer wanted them, and that turned out to be the start of my theatre collection and the reason why it is known as Delfont Mackintosh Theatres.

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It has become an equal passion of mine to restore these wonderful Edwardian buildings that are mostly over 100 years old and bring them back to life with the amenities one should be offering the public in the 21st century. I know from the renovation and refurbishments that I have done, that there is no reason why these theatres shouldn’t still be there in 100 years’ time. I’m currently going through the biggest renovation yet at the Victoria Palace Theatre, which is planned to reopen at the end of this year with the much anticipated American musical “Hamilton”.

When I have completed it, the Victoria Palace will have one of the biggest stages and be one of the most beautiful musical theatres in London.

What’s next for you? Is there a new project you can let us know about?

Apart from a huge amount of time being taken up with several architectural projects including the Victoria Palace, I have also got a musical movie that I’m working on and the demand for my shows worldwide is bigger than it has ever been with over 30 of my shows in various stages of production around the world in the next few years.

We also recently launched the European arm of Music Theatre International, which I co-own with Freddie Gershon. The European team, based in London, will license more than 4,800 productions a year to professional theatres and producers, amateur societies and schools across Europe and will ensure the greatest titles in the musical theatre repertoire will be well looked after and continue to be seen by many generations to come.

However amongst all of this, one of the things I most look forward to is my life in the country and grabbing as many holidays as I can - just as I have done since I was an impoverished stagehand and cleaner at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane back in 1965 when I first started working on “Camelot”.

Miss Saigon is at the Birmingham Hippodrome from 26 Jul - 23 Sep. Tickets are limited so to make sure you get yours visit www.birminghamhippodrome.co.uk or call the ticket office direct on 0844 338 5000

YOU R NEW NEIGHBOU R S Neptune Edgbaston opening September 2017 16-18 Harborne Road, Birmingham B15 3AA Neptune Edgbaston is almost ready to open its doors. We’d love to get to know our new neighbours a little better.

Olivia armchair in Pale Oat, £1,310. Wardley oak dining table, £1,000.

Wardley oak dining chair, £300. Rugs, cushions, accessories and more in-store and online.

neptune.com Neptune Edgbaston, 16-18 Harborne Road, Birmingham B15 3AA, edgbaston@neptune.com

DLUXE dings

wed

Looking for a truly unique wedding?

Lucky for you that the West Midlands is teaming with creativity, quirky and innovative businesses that live, breathe, eat and sleep all things wedding!

Dluxe Birmingham & Solihull look at different ways to make the most of your big day. Your wedding day journey starts right here!

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THE WEDDING CLUB Soon to be opening at The Mailbox, The Wedding Club is a leading designer bridal retailer with an emphasis on quality and style.

Established in 2001 in Edgbaston, their stores, including Knightsbridge and South Kensington welcome brides from all over the world looking for the latest, designer and trend focused bridalwear for fashion conscious and stylish brides.

Exclusive British and International designers include Atelier Pronovias, Berta, Bliss Monique Lhuillier, Carolina Herrera, Charlie Brear, Costarellos, Dessy, Elbeth Gillis, Georges Hobeika, Ghost, Jenny Packham, Katie May, Legends Romona Keveza, Marco & Maria, Naeem Khan, Nina Rose, Rue De Seine, Sabina Motasem, Savannah Miller, Savin London, Suzanne Neville, Temperley London, Two Birds, Yolan Cris And Zuhair Murad

For an appointment call 0121 440 8276. www.theweddingclub.co.uk dluxe-magazine.co.uk 25

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Say your vows then take a bow!

A unique wedding requires a truly dramatic setting and The REP are in the business of realising dreams and making memories. Where better than Birmingham Repertory Theatre to give your special celebration the magic it deserves?

Any fabulous party needs fabulous cuisine too! The REP works with a range of professional caterers to provide high quality, locally sourced menus tailored to suit your tastes. Just tell them your dream plans and they’ll try to make your wish a reality with a bespoke package to suit your unique style.

The REP is ideal for couples who prefer a more theatrical experience. They offer a dynamic and hugely creative environment with lots of interesting spaces to hold a reception, ceremony and party.

For enquiries email thespaces@ birmingham-rep.co.uk or call Suzanna on 0121 245 2076.

“The REP has helped us make a dream come true” The REP Wedding Client

Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Centenary Square, Broad Street, B1 2EP

Whatever your preference, The REP team will assist you in making the most of all the amazing complementary services they have to offer to ensure you have the wedding of your dreams. They host a few select weddings every year so each one is given their undivided love and attention.

Unique moments you will only get with a theatre include: • Themed Hen and Stag Parties with theatre Make Up or Stage Combat workshops, Costume Making or Cocktail making Days.

• Treat guests to a backstage tour • Get ready in our actors’ dressing rooms • Dine on our stages • Fill the air with surprise ‘snowfall’ or other theatrical magic on the day

weddings at the belfry hotel & resort

Set against the backdrop of 550 acres of rolling North Warwickshire countryside, The Belfry Hotel & Resort offers the perfect setting for a wedding day to remember.

A dedicated and passionate team of expert planners are on hand to ensure every detail of your special day is exactly as you want it. The abundance of world class facilities on offer at the resort ensures The Belfry can provide a totally unique event. From an elegant extravaganza, beautifully simple ceremony to bespoke wedding breakfast, The Belfry is the perfect blank canvas.

With luxurious guest bedrooms and suites, a choice of restaurants and bars, event rooms for all sizes, a Spa and Health Club, a nightclub and three iconic golf courses, The Belfry cannot fail to impress with the outstanding quality 26 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

of facilities matched by the exceptional service and hospitality.

Your experience with The Belfry starts from the moment you book a viewing with a planner, they will be on hand to showcase the full resort and answer any questions you may have no matter how big or small. The Belfry’s Executive Head Chef will also work with you on creating a totally unique menu using the freshest of ingredients.

Choose from stunning event rooms subject to the size of your party with options including The Warwick suite with its glittering chandeliers and dedicated bar facility, the exclusively contained Woodland Suite perfect for larger weddings with 48 Woodland Lodge bedrooms and The Wishaw and Sutton Suites that both offer stunning views across the infamous Brabazon course with their own private bar facilities. For

smaller, more intimate receptions The Belfry also offers The Ryder Room and The Lichfield Suite each boasting their own charm and uniqueness.

With 319 Signature bedrooms The Belfry Hotel and Resort can accommodate your guests whilst you can opt for one of the hotels suites with their generous living space; none more spectacular than The Belfry Presidential Suite with its master bedroom, sumptuous bathroom and private balcony that provide stunning views of the golf courses.

At The Belfry the stage is set for whatever your heart desires. To find out more information about Weddings at The Belfry or to book your Wedding showround, call 01675 238 600 or email specialevents@ thebelfry.com

Birmingham Museums offers truly unique venues to hold weddings, civil ceremonies, receptions and celebrations. Say your vows at the impressive and glamorous Aston Hall, at the charming and peaceful Blakesley Hall or at the romantic and elegant Soho House. These three venues are all registered to host Civil Ceremonies.

For couples looking for just a reception venue, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery offers a magnificent and sophisticated city centre location. Thinktank gives couples a fun and creative environment to celebrate their wedding and Weoley Castle Ruins offers the chance to host the ultimate medieval themed celebration.

Birmingham Museum’s venues also provide a stunning backdrop for wedding and engagement photography. For those starting to plan their wedding and considering a city centre location, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery will be revealing a beautiful new space for weddings and civil ceremonies later this year, so contact the team to be kept updated.

Blakesley Hall

Blakesley Hall is a striking Tudor house set amongst beautiful tranquil gardens. It offers a peaceful and idyllic venue for intimate wedding celebrations.

Your civil ceremony can take place either in the finely furnished, atmospheric Great Hall for up to 40 guests, or the 18th-century Barn featuring original oak beams and flagstone floor, for up to 60 guests.

Aston Hall Aston Hall is a peaceful haven surrounded by beautiful formal gardens and 50 acres of open parkland. The Great Hall is the perfect setting for your civil ceremony for up to 80 guests. Follow your ceremony with your wedding breakfast in the Stables to toast to your happily ever after.

For larger celebrations of up to 400 guests, the North Courtyard makes an ideal space for marquees, and with Aston Hall as the backdrop, you and your guests will experience stunning views on your special day.

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery This Grade II* listed building provides a unique and sophisticated venue for your wedding reception and from the moment your guests enter this magnificent space they will be swept away. Its central location in the heart of

Birmingham makes it an ideal venue for your guests. Your party will congregate in the Round Room, standing as it did in 1885 with its ornate glass domed ceiling and a beautiful collection of fine art on display. The Industrial Gallery will then play host to your wedding breakfast. Then prepare to dance the night away in the Edwardian Tearooms before setting off into the night as a newly married couple!

50 – 140 guests can be accomodated for seated dining at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, or 50 – 250 guests for a drinks reception or standing buffet.

Soho House Offering elegance, charm and Georgian style, Soho House is a delightful setting for an intimate, romantic wedding. Your civil ceremony will take place in the Lunar Room, an 18th-century style dining room brimming with history. Joined by up to 34 guests you will take your vows and sign the register on the original mahogany dining table that Matthew Boulton used in the 1700s.

Follow your ceremony with photographs in the enchanting 18th-century style garden before hosting your wedding breakfast in our modern and flexible events space. For parties of up to 75 people they are able to accommodate seated dining but for larger groups of up to 110 people the space works well for a standing buffet. They are also able to accommodate small marquees in the gardens should you prefer celebrating outside.

To plan your perfect day contact events@ birminghammuseums.org. uk Tel. 0121 348 8082 or visit birminghammuseums.org.uk/ venue-hire dluxe-magazine.co.uk 27

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unique spaces for wonderful weddings

dluxeweddings

Say I Do IN STYLE at HN

up with a smarter shirt or plain white tee to keep things casual. If you want to join in with the bo-ho trend then the Paul Smith floral print cotton shirt, £120, could be perfect.

Add some glossy style to your wedding outfit with caramel leather Derby shoes, £475, by Hugo.

They will add class to any outfit and perfect for dancing the night away.

If the groom is still searching for the right outfit then have a look at this Corneliani dark blue wool suit, £1410, (pictured below left).

GLORIOUS GIFTS

If wedding lists and gift vouchers are not your thing then Harvey Nichols has a great range of gifts to choose from.

Harvey Nichols has oodles to offer when it comes to wedding chic. Its wedding guide is full of all things fabulous from dapper suits to beautiful modern bridal outfits and an A-Z checklist for those wedding nerves.

BOHO BRIDE

The desire for a more relaxed and chilled out wedding is becoming more and more common. So Harvey Nichols has given the bride a few options for the ideal dress, including a gorgeous Alexander McQueen Ivory lacemaxi dress, £2165 –knit wool maxi dress to make all your bohemian dreams come true.

For something in white, there is a beautifully elegant floral lace Jill Jill Stuart dress, £795, that could be paired with Franceso Russo silver leather sandals, £560, to complete the look.

First off, hampers. They are a great way to treat someone to a few indulgences of their favourite things, Harvey Nichols have a few of their own from ‘Talk Cheesy To Me’, £60,with beautiful stilton and port, to ‘The Italian Collection’ with Valdobbiadene Prosecco and wild mushroom risotto, £90.

As a bride and groom, if you really wanted to treat a certain special bridesmaid or mother of the bride then the diamond collection at Harvey Nichols will not disappoint.

The Dana Rebecca 14ct Diamond disc necklace, £295, will add some sparkle to any outfit or the Dana Rebecca earrings with classic diamond studs set in 14ct of rose gold, £450, could be the perfect gift.

For more wedding advice visit Harvey Nichols, The Mailbox Birmingham or online at Harveynichols.com

RING OF LIFE FOR THE BOYS

There’s no shortage of styles for handsome hubbies and best dressed best men, whether they want to keep It smart or funk it up, they can find something party-worthy here.

Gucci’s navy blazer, £1380, with nautical stripe detail on the sleeves could add a subtle splash of colour to your outfit and could be dressed 28 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Of all the items of jewellery you’ll ever own, your wedding ring is the most important. A constant companion to your daily life, choosing the right ring can be harder than you think. We talk to Carli Onguc of Luxury Jewellery Boutique, Lanes Fine Jewellery, to find out how to choose your perfect wedding ring.

Do wedding rings follow trends or go in and out of style?

No not really; wedding rings, like the sentiments behind them, are timeless. I would say it’s more about tradition and individuality than fashion or trends.

What are the key things to think about when choosing a wedding ring? Well it’s almost the same questions you ask before you say I do; you’re choosing this ring above all others to wear for ever more so will you still love it in 30 years’ time? A wedding ring is like no other piece of jewellery as it is with you always. It is the one part of your big day

dluxeweddings

BOHO BRIDES

SAY THANK YOU IN STYLE A gift is a perfect way to say ‘I couldn’t have done it without you’ but finding the perfect thankyou gift for a best man or bridesmaid can be incredibly difficult.

With A Gypsy Soul create dreamcatchers, wedding ceremony backdrops, feather veils and dreamcatcher bouquets for those brides with a little gypsy in their souls.

All of their creations are lovingly hand crafted in the UK and each piece, from the tiniest dreamcatcher to the largest backdrop is an original. The largest backdrop is 8ft square and just perfect for creating a bohemian feel on your day.

Smaller, individual dreamcatchers look beautiful grouped together around your venue, or hung from wall to wall, and for the true boho bride they caan create feather veils and dreamcatcher bouquets to complete your outfit.

Find them on Facebook @ withagypsysouldreamcatchers

Consider a gift that will last and be a perfect reminder of the wedding which is where Johnsons Jewellers can help with all manner of gifts from the classic to the quirky. How about these stylish cufflinks from British manufacturers Deakin and Francis? Their range pays homage to a wealth of hobbies and activities from golf clubs, fly fishing to classic car driving; perfect for a busy Best Man.

Or why not opt for something a little more unique with the Deakin and Francis skull cufflinks complete with moving jaw.

What’s more Deakin and Francis have the skills to colour match any cufflinks to the specific colour requirements of the bridetailored to perfection!

that you always have with you so it’s a big decision to get right.

How do you make sure you get exactly what you want? The key is to be open minded, push your boundaries and try different styles on; styles that you never imagined as well as what you had in mind as your perfect wedding band. You’d be amazed at how many people choose something totally different from what they’d originally envisioned.

Is there any such thing as too much bling? Noooo! LOL. Bling can be tasteful but it’s not about their being TOO much bling it’s about having the right bling!!! If you want your ring to make a statement then you just need to make sure that it’s the right one.

You read a lot about making sure your wedding ring matches your engagement ring and coordinates with your partner’s. What’s your take on that? It’s completely your choice- it’s your wedding ring! It

Gifting for that special Maid of Honour or Bridesmaid may take a little more time to choose. This is someone who will have stood by the bride’s side from the moment she has said ‘I do’, been there for the highs of choosing the dress and stress of organising the hen night to the lows of balancing the seating plan so she deserves an extra special gift! These beautiful pieces made by Carat* feature stones cut by hand and polished to make it sparkle in the same way as a diamond. The Carat* collection is popular with celebrities and fashion bloggers alike , with a range of classic stud earrings to dramatic chandelier drop earrings the jewellery range has something to suit all.

All these gifts and more can be found by browsing the website www. johnsonsjewellers.co.uk or better still why not visit them in store for a more personal service where they can show you a wide collection of wedding rings and gifts available.

Johnsons Jewellers , 51 Queens Road, Nuneaton, CV11 5JX

represents an important day and person in your life so you need to have what you want. Maybe consider having the same colour metal or same family of metal but there are no real rules. We do have some clients, whose circumstances have changed between their engagement and their wedding, who take the opportunity to upgrade their engagement ring at the same time as having their wedding ring designed. We can reset the stones from their engagement ring with new ones in a new design reusing the old mount etc. so that they have something more representative of their life now going into marriage.

This is becoming increasingly popular.

What is the process when choosing a wedding ring at Lanes?

At Lanes we work with you to get the best ring for you! We will advise you about metals and designs but ultimately it is your choice. All wedding rings at Lanes are made to order so you know that your wedding ring has been made especially for you. We have a vast range of wedding ring ideas but also offer a bespoke design service and can put most designs on to most wedding bands. We can add your partner’s heart beat or thumbprint to your ring or even the first verse of your wedding dance inside; the possibilities are endless! www.lanesjewellers.com dluxe-magazine.co.uk 29

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Poolside Ponchos AND Kaftan Cool

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HOLIDAY BEAUTY

Whether it’s a quick stopover or a fortnight escape to the sun, ensure your travelling beauty bounty is first class.

Opt for the hottest holiday essentials to preen and pamper from head to toe.

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HELEN GOUGH, Beauty Manager at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, selects the sumptuous and the splendid to see you through summer in style. Now all you have to do is decide on a destination.

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10 9 1. Sorrento Aqua Coral £95 LindseyBrown. com 2. Sabina Bandini Hanky Hem Dress £49 Monsoon 3. Sorrento Lavender £95 LindseyBrown. com 4.Black Crochet beach maxi dress River Island. 5. Star Mela Delfi Embroidered Kaftan, Khaki £85 John Lewis 6. Ted Baker Persian Short Cover Up £80 7. Paolita Xena Kaftan £180 Harvey Nichols. 8.MANHATTAN BlackMetallic£225 LindseyBrown.com 9.

Floozie by FrostFrench £34 Debenhams 10. Camilla Silk Kaftan £400 Selfridges

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1: Elemis Biotec energising cleanser, £39.50. 2: GHD V Gold amber sunrise styler, £139 3: Lancôme Soleil Bronze protective mist SPF50, £26. 4: Lancôme Soleil Bronzer hydrating after-sun milk, £26. 5: NARS duo eyeshadow palette in Wildfire Chiang Mai, £25. 6: SHOW Beauty pure moisture conditioner, £29. 7: Stila bronzing beauty balm, £26. 8: Tom Ford limited edition Mandarino Di Amalfi EDP, £155. 9: Victoria Beckham Estée Lauder lipstick in Nude Spice, £36.10: Yves Saint Laurent bronzing palette, £35. dluxe-magazine.co.uk 31

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s tylist’s c hoic e

Summer Swimwear

A well-cut swimsuit can make you look as though you have shed pounds and work wonders at helping you to look and feel at you’re best. It obviously depends upon the individual, but if you want to feel stylish and comfortable whilst you’re by the pool or on the beach then I really would treat yourself, writes personal stylist and DLUXE women’s style correspondent Cleo Lacey.

Be sure to try your swimwear on before you buy, so you know what it looks like on you. If you need to go up a size compared to what you wear in regular clothing, do not despair! Swimwear tends to be cut smaller and fit tighter.

Panic over.

Your swimwear should flatter your exact body shape and accentuate your positive features as this will naturally detract from the negative areas you don’t like. Most people feel insecure about at least one part of their body. Those insecurities can definitely amplify when the bathing suit season arrives. We can’t change Mother Nature but we certainly can disguise her! Here are a few of my top style tips and tricks for all body shapes to help you become a complete beach bombshell!

If you carry your weight on your hips and thighs, let’s slim that pear!

Pear shapes generally tend to have a good tummy, so let’s show this off with a two piece.

- Avoid detail on the bottom, the less going on there the better! Opt for a solid plain coloured bottom - Bring the focus upwards, try a top in a lighter colour, with fun details or a pretty pattern.

- Choose a fairly high-cut bottom, this will slim the thighs and create the illusion of longer, leaner legs.

- Avoid boy shorts, although very popular with ladies trying to hide more flesh around the bottom and thigh area, they are actually very unflattering. They can shorten the appearance of your legs and make you seem wider than you actually are.

- Many two-piece bathing suits are now sold separately, allowing you to mix and match and purchase a top and bottom in the exact sizes you need.

- If you would feel more comfortable in a one-piece then always choose a plunging deep V-neckline.

Although flattering on virtually any body type, they’re especially flattering on bodies with full hips or thighs such as a pear. This is because they draw the eye to the upwards to the top half of the body.

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If you’re concerned about your stomach area, here’s some tummy trimming wonders!

- Avoid a tankini at all costs!

A tankini is a two piece swimsuit with a longer top that usually draws eyes right to the stomach area (the place that we are trying to avoid). They tend to ride up and expose what you don’t want people to see.

- Do show some skin in your one-piece swimsuit. A highcut leg or low-cut top will draw eyes away from your middle area.

- Don’t go for a shiny fabric, it highlights every lump and bump. Matte is much better.

- Another great way to disguise a tummy is with ruched gathered fabric, this can be very flattering and camouflages extra weight and adds a decorative detail to the swimsuit. It can also pull you in and shape the waist. There are lots of slimming swimsuits out there designed to suck you in and flatter your tummy.

If you’ve got curves, embrace and flatter them!

- Play up your curvy shape with a fun print. Because an hourglass figure is considered the perfect shape for swimwear, you can feel free to choose a more dramatic print that will draw attention to your body.

- Don’t shy away from stripes, just be sure they’re vertical or angled across your body.

- Emphasize your defined waist by choosing a two-piece swimsuit. Bikinis show the most skin and will highlight your curves the best.

- If your curves need toning slightly do not despair, you can still wear a bikini, just avoid thin string ties, which can dig and create bulges.

- If you are not comfortable wearing a bikini but don’t want to go for a swimsuit then try a tankini. These styles cover most of the stomach but feature a separate bottom, offering the convenience of a twopiece with more coverage.

- If you do prefer a onepiece swimsuit then go for a wrap style, perfect for cinching in your waist and showing off your curves.

Remember to finish your swimsuit or bikini off with a gorgeous beach bag, some fab sandals or flip flops and a nice cover up. I advise a lot of my clients to buy a plainer swimsuit for investment purposes then add colour, print, pattern and even embellishment with a Kaftan. This will really polish off your beach/pool look. A kaftan is also great to use for other purposes on holiday such as wearing it in the evening as a floaty top with linen trousers or denim shorts. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure and become the sun goddess you have always dreamed of, those holiday snaps need to be shown off not hidden away! Still panicking and need a little help? You know where to find me...

Your Fairy Clothes Mother xx Working as a Buyer and Image Consultant for high street fashion chains as well as high end designers, including Amanda Wakeley, Cleo now runs her own personal styling and shopping service, helping real men and women to take control of their wardrobe. E: cleolacey@demi-couture.co.uk W: www.demi-couture.co.uk Facebook: Demi Couture Twitter: @cleolacey Instagram: DemiCoutureStylist

MULES RUSH IN Minimalist and modern, mules hit a strong sartorial note this season. These backless beauties are stylish and fussfree – simply slip on and go! Put your best foot forward for SS17 with our pick of the most stylish pairs from HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM.

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1: Alexandre Birman ruffled suede mules, £415. 2: Gucci fringed suede mules, £450. 3: Malone Souliers suede mules, £580. 4: Manolo Blahnik satin mules, £745. 5: Sophia Webster multicoloured fringed mules, £550 6: Saint Laurent suede mules, £510 7: Valentino Rockstud 90 blush mules, £535 8: Rag & Bone mules, £415 9: Givenchy mules, £580. 10: Miista mules, £190.

Products available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham, The Mailbox, in store, via Style Concierge, or online at harveynichols.com.

5 STEPS TO TAKE THE PAUSE OUT OF

MENOPAUSE

vaginal dryness symptoms, eliminating troublesome itching, irritation, and pain.

Find out more at takeoutthepause.co.uk

FATIGUE & DIFFICULTY SLEEPING

A good night’s sleep is vital for refreshing and repairing our mind and body. One of the main causes of fatigue during menopause is changing hormone levels that are involved in regulating energy levels in the body.

HAIR LOSS

For lots of women ‘the change’ can be tough, physically and emotionally, but it doesn’t have to put your life on hold. Menopause Expert Dr Louise Newson gives her top tips to help you take the ‘pause’ out of menopause and live your life to the fullest.

MOOD SWINGS

Hormonal changes can make mood swings one of the most commonly experienced symptoms of the menopause. Research shows that those women who exercise regularly tend to live longer and have better moods than people who don’t exercise. Diet also plays an important role in your mood.

Opt for vegetables, fruits and complex carbohydrates such as beans, brown rice, nuts and seeds.

HOT FLUSHES

Three out of every four menopausal women have hot flushes. Whilst triggers can vary from woman to woman, avoiding spicy food, alcohol, smoking and stress can help to control them. .

During menopause women may notice hair loss or thinning due to changing hormone levels which can affect the growth and shedding cycle of our hair. The effects are very rarely permanent and hair should regrow again.

Use a gentle shampoo and avoid brushing hair whilst it’s wet as that’s when hair is the most delicate.

DRYNESS & PAINFUL SEX

New research led by women’s intimate health specialists, MonaLisa Touch® reveals many women are worried about the long-term impact vaginal dryness could have on their relationship.

There are various safe, effective treatments available for vaginal dryness such as vaginal moisturisers and topical oestrogen creams that can provide relief.

Longer lasting solutions are also now available, including laser treatments which are a proven, effective solution for dluxe-magazine.co.uk 33

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DLUXE

GAME FACE The right pair of sunglasses can turn you from zero to hero in seconds and add some seaside swagger to your game this summer.

Here’s our guide to choosing the right pair for you.

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SQUARE JAW:

HOLIDAY HEROES

Aviators are a great shape for a square face. If you have strong features, the bigger the better, whilst delicate features are better suited to the small to medium sized option.

Whether it’s the heat of Hawaii or the temptation of Thailand, ensure you’re beach-ready this summer with these stylish must-haves. We asked DARREN JACKSON Private Shopping Manager at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, to share his suitcase saviours.

Oval and round frames look great edged with a solid acetate rim. For a more masculine approach, metal framework with dark lenses also look great on square faces, accentuating your chiselled features.

1: Dolce & Gabbana T-shirt, £330: Bring the fiesta feel to your holiday wardrobe with this bright and beautiful T-shirt. Team with chino shorts to take your from the beach to the bar in an instant.

Rectangular shaped frames with soft edges are a classic, unisex option so be warned; your partner will steal them.

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ROUND FACE: Definition is key so slim your cheeks with a frame slightly wider than the broadest part of your face.

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Angular styles will pull your temple higher, lengthening your face and break up the roundness.

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Solid acetate framework in dark colours and prints create a defined outline and keep things masculine.

OVAL FACE: A large frame is best for the oval face as this will accentuate and chisel cheekbones.

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Details on the arms will pull your temples out, adding definition to your face shape but make sure that the arms don’t sit too low on your face.

Visor styles work great- make sure the lenses are dark.

Metal framework will soften an angular shaped shade.

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4: Dior Homme tortoiseshell round-frame sunglasses, £345: As cool as shades get, these tortoiseshell sunnies have tinted grey lenses offering 100% UV protection. Of course, there’s the designer stamp on the arm too.

6: La Prairie’s Soothing After Sun Mist, £64: The sun certainly feels wonderful, but the after-effects may require replenishment and rehydration. This wash bag essential naturally calms, soothes and moisturises sunparched skin.

HEART / DIAMOND FACE: THE RULES Go for a more quirky, retro shaped pair of sunglasses.

Wrap-around frames work well in balancing out a diamond face shape whilst rectangular frames can balance out a pointed chin.

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3: Moschino beach towel, £95: Reserve your sun bed in the most stylish way possible, with this designer towel featuring the brand’s signature logo.

5: Tom Ford Neroli Portofino EDP, £155 (50ml): Perfectly capturing the cool breezes, sparkling clear water and lush foliage of the Italian Rivera, this classic cologne features citrus oils, floral notes and amber undertones.

Coloured frames and arms with strong detail will soften the lower portion of your face shape by accentuating the eye area.

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2: La Mer Reparative Sun Lotion SPF30, £75: Not only does this offer great sun protection; it’s also packed with extensive antiageing benefits, leaving you with firmer, healthier looking skin.

Win Win!

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Harrington jacket £55 Ribbed sweater £26 Chinos £22 Pumps £28 2.Gucci Black Aviator £240 Harvey Nichols. 3. PradaAviator Sunglasses, Silver £253. 4. PradaAviator Sunglasses, Silver £253. 5. Oakley FLAK 2.0 XL PRIZM™ Sunglasses, Matte Grey Smoke Purple £140 John Lewis. 6. Dolce & Gabbana Polarised Aviator Sunglasses, £229. 7. Ray-Ban Round Sunglasses, Bronze Green Gradient £125. 8.Burton Black Matte Wayfarer Sunglasses £12. 9. Oakley Frogskins Square Sunglasses, Yellow Mirror Green £95. 10. TOM FORD Clint Round Sunglasses, Black Green £230.

7: Monroe of London hair and body wash, £31.50: An effective yet gentle formula that leaves your skin refreshed and energised and your hair thoroughly cleansed.

8: Master & Dynamic aluminium headphones, £319: For impeccable sound quality onthe-go, chill out in the sun with your favourite tunes.

All products featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham, either in store or via the Style Concierge service. dluxe-magazine.co.uk 35

STYLIST’S CHOICE: CLIMATE CONTROL

Lightweight Suit

Your jacket needs to be lightweight enough to layer over a shirt or tee on cooler days without feeling oppressively hot. Look for unstructured and unlined styles – they feature minimal padding and will allow you to receive the full benefit of your summer fabric choice. A jacket in a shade of white, cream or beige is not only on trend but also reflects light whilst being timeless and extremely versatile meaning you’ll use for many years to come.

Single-breasted linen and cotton-blend blazer, selfridges, £510

T-Shirt

The mere thought of wearing tailoring in the stifling heat of summer can cause even the most hardened of men to break out in hives – stiff, starched collars, weighty fabrics, suffocating tie knots and of course - the sweating; so it pays to swat up on the basics which, when mixed and matched to produce looks that are comfortable, still cut a handsome figure.

Ever wonder how these slick Milanese types saunter through a sweltering piazza in a three-piece suit without so much as breaking a bead of sweat? Well, there are ways to ensure you don’t spend the day constantly mopping your forehead; follow these easily executed styling tips and you’ll be well on your way to seasonal sartorial comfort.

The key to layering at this time of year is opting for pieces you can easily throw on and take off; depending on which turn the weather is taking. It’s about setting an outfit foundation that you can gradually build on as the day gets later and the temperature gets cooler.

Being in an office in summer shouldn’t feel like an obscure form of torture.

Armed with these simple guidelines, you’ll see that your work wear can be versatile all year-round; so long as a little more consideration is made for fabrics, construction and colours.

Double Breasted Blazer

Double-breasted tailoring is a look I’m not only championing for summer, but thanks to this season’s new textures and sharpened cuts, there are plenty of reasons to fall in love with the design all over again. An easy to wear design which will reinvigorate your working wardrobe for the summer without making too bold a statement, the double breasted blazer feels refined and slightly relaxed at the same time.

Wear this in summer during working hours as part of a mismatched tailored look, pairing a navy blazer with light sand chinos, a white shirt and brown suede monk straps.

Second-layer navy double-breasted, Harvey Nichols, £555

Knitwear

Breathable, open weave knits are crucial when it comes to layering up in a refined way. Thin cotton v-neck jumpers in navy or grey never fail to look sharp when pulled over a crisp white linen shirt – a go to combination for the office on a chilly summer day. Pair with a slim-cut suit, seasonal tie and leather Derbys during the working week and with rolled up chinos and slip-on loafers for smart-casual occasions.

Chinos

When it comes to leg wear, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for styles that are either cropped or that can be easily turned up at the hems. Make sure your top and bottom half contrast or clash; the only head-to-toe colour that works is white, which makes for a striking summer getup providing you have the skin tone to see it through.

Short Sleeve Shirts

When it comes to short sleeve shirts, there are two main areas you need to focus on – sleeves and shoulders. The shirt should fit well across your shoulders without being too tight around your chest. As for the sleeves, they should finish around midbicep. Go for conservative colours such as white, blue and pink.

Smarter Fine Stripe Short Sleeve Shirt, John Lewis, £35

Linen And Cotton-Blend Trousers, Selfridges, £240

Start by remembering that natural fibres are your friend during summer. This applies to every aspect of your wardrobe and not just workwear. Although linen is a great choice at combating the heat, it has, with wrinkles and creases, too much going against it for the ‘rat race’ and may be a little too scruffy for an office that demands a smarter appearance; but blended with cotton, it becomes a savior.

Selected Homme Rune Wide Stripe T-Shirt, John Lewis, £20

Barbour Pima V Neck Jumper, john lewis, £59

It’s officially summer time and for many of us, this means long hours in a hot office along with uncomfortable commutes for the foreseeable future. Dressing for the hot weather is not simple - we all know how unpredictable the British summertime can be writes DLUXE’s men’s style correspondent Pablo Collelo.

For those lucky enough to work in an environment where the dress code allows a degree of freedom, staying stylish and cool in the heat is easily achievable. Swapping out a restrictive shirt for something more casual instantly ups the comfort factor of your tailored looks, while also lending them a subtle contemporary edge. The humble t-shirt is a no-brainer – stick to stripes, flecked or plain and avoid logos at all costs. A white t-shirt with charcoal tailored trousers and brown brogues or with a suit will hit the sweet spot between smart and casual.

SMART OR

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It’s the dress code that’s guaranteed to confuse ... but what exactly does smart casual mean? LISA PIDDINGTON, from Harvey Nichols Birmingham, offers advice on how to get it right.

Whether it’s a business lunch or a garden party, “smart casual” is more often than not the directed dress code ... but does that mean you veer towards casual or play it safe and go smart? Some people interpret the term as meaning they can wear what they like, while others will turn up feeling a little overdressed. The definition of both “smart” and “casual” are quite different; one calls for a suit and tie while the other suggests comfy jeans and a favourite T-shirt. So, is it casually smart or smartly casual?

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The easiest way to get it right is to plump for a great selection of wear-anywhere basics and then add a final flourish with your choice of accessories.

A blazer or sports jacket should be your starting point as this is the easiest way to take any casual outfit over the smart threshold, adding an instant dash of style.

Invest in a great pair of brogues in suede or leather – they work with a suit, a pair of chinos or designer denims and add an air of English eccentricity. Feel free to leave the tie in the office and instead go for an open-collared shirt teamed with a plain jumper or cardigan for an on-trend preppy feel. Express your personality with super stylish accessories.

All products featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham, either in store or via the Style Concierge service.

All products featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham, either in store or via the Style Concierge service.

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1: Barena cotton blazer, £285 2: Larsson & Jennings watch, £215. 3: Paul Smith floral-print shirt, £155. 4: Polo Ralph Lauren chinos, £125. 5: Fendi striped tote, £1180. 6: Grenson brogues, £215. 7: John Smedley cardigan, £170 8: Harmony pin-striped shirt, £185. 9: Aspinal of London briefcase, £525. 10: Gucci loafers, £495.

GIVE THE GIFT of Writing TO THE WORLD Montblanc was founded on a love for writing and a belief in its power to change the world. That’s why the luxury pen makers have partnered with UNICEF with the aim of achieving one common goal: to sustain primary education and literacy programs for children all over the world.

With over Ten Million USD donated by Montblanc, the next phase of the brands support is the The Montblanc for UNICEF Collection. Inspired by the Rosetta stone with its multilingual inscription, the comprehensive collection symbolizes a worldwide bond with six very special written characters incorporated into the design.

The handwritten characters featured are the first letters children learn to write at school in six different world languages; Latin, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Hindi scripts. All this is brought together in a seamless design to emphasize how precious the gift of writing is.

As you would expect from Montblanc, each writing instrument is made to measurefrom materials such as precious resin, sterling silver or ebonite. Gold, platinum, ruthenium or rhodium coatings give each writing instrument a distinctive character, and each piece is accentuated with a UNICEF blue sapphire.

Each item sold between April 1, 2017 and March 31, 2018 will help to provide more children access to primary education of a better quality.

Find out more and see the range by visiting The Penshop, Great Western Arcade, Birmingham. B25HU Tel. 0121 236 8089 www.penshop.co.uk dluxe-magazine.co.uk 37

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DLUliving XE

Image by Farrow & Ball

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1. M&Co Home Vitamin Sea plaque £5. 2. Sainsbury’s Home Shore Woven Baskets, £22 3. Metal lantern £80 House of Fraser. 4. Sandtex Ultra Smooth Masonry Paint Cornish Cream 2.5L £18 5. Hook £15 Debenhams. 6. Large column vase £40 House of Fraser. 7. Oval Marble Wall Clock £40 Oliver Bonas. 8. Sainsbury’s Home Shore Split Willow Basket, £12. 9. M&Co; Home Sea Urchin Vase £8. 10. 4 Person Hamper £59 marksandspencer. 11.

Hook £20 Debenhams. 11. Whale cushion £15 House of Fraser. 12. Small Lantern £25 Debenhams. 13. Wilko Paint Smoky Blue 2.5L £24. 14. Cusion Marble Blue £28 Oliver Bonas. 15. Newquay bottle vase £25 House of Fraser. 16. Wendover faux wood vase, tall £95 OKA.17. Sainsbury’s Home Chunky Natural Boucle Mat, 60 x 150, £16. 18. Bloomingville - Deck Chair - Grey Dots £165 Amara. dluxe-magazine.co.uk 39

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BEACH STYLE

Why wait until your holidays to enjoy the beach?

Bring a little coastal charm to your home with relaxing seaside shades of blues, creams and sands and natural themed accessories.

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INTERIOR NEWS S U R f ’S U P D U D E This is one of the most remarkable beds we have EVER come across! Modeled on the iconic VW split screen camper van, this awesome kid’s bed will certainly introduce some fun and imagination to your little person’s room. The flawless exterior is made from fibreglass in a glossy powder blue and white with chrome plated finishes; the luxurious interior is kitted out with a bed, desk, ssofa, mini fridge and TV. Now, we can feel the envy from all you adults out there... why was this not around when we were kids?!

If you ask nicely you may be granted permission to step inside and lose yourself in the magical world of make believe, be careful though, you may not want to leave! A snip at £40,695.00 from cuckooland.co.uk

M O N O MODE

BRITISH INTERIORS AND LIFESTYLE BRAND TO OPEN AT EDGBASTON VILLAGE

Belgian design house Louis de Poortere are rocking one of this season’s biggest trends, Monotone, with their new collection of rugs; the perfect way to embrace all things black and white. Stripes, patchwork and traditional herringbone are just a few of the options available.

Louis de Poortere rugs are priced from £145 for 80cm x 150cm, louisdepoortere.com

Neptune, a leading British interiors and lifestyle brand, is the latest prestigious company to confirm the opening of a new store at Edgbaston Village.

Set to start trading in autumn 2017, the Neptune store will be located in a newly refurbished property next door to OKA at 16-18 Harborne Road, offering timeless, beautifully- made, solid timber kitchen designs, furniture collections, lighting and interior decorations.

Established in 1996, first trading from a farm workshop in Wiltshire, the company has grown rapidly since then and increased its total number of aspirational retail outlets to 20 with the addition of Edgbaston.

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Tim Buxton, Head of Property at Neptune, said: “Over the years Neptune has become well known for occupying distinctive properties that create a ‘home from home’ experience for customers. Calthorpe Estates’ sympathetic refurbishment of the Edwardian period building we have selected makes the property the perfect addition to our current portfolio.”

Just a mile from Birmingham city centre, Edgbaston Village is adding a new heart to this prosperous catchment area, defined by its leafy spaces, period properties, excellent educational facilities and world-class leisure facilities, including Edgbaston Priory Club, Edgbaston Golf Club and Edgbaston Stadium.

6. ACCESSORISE

Gently accessorise to make your property feel like a home. Use a soothing colour palette to allow one room to flow into the next, creating a cohesive feel.

7. SOFT FURNISHINGS

SELL YOUR HOME IN TEN STEPS When it comes to selling your home first impressions count. The experts at Alexander James Interior Design have shared their top 10 tips for selling your home faster through creative interior design.

1. BE YOUR OWN CRITIC

Start by casting a critical eye over your home yourself, picturing it through the eyes of a potential buyer. Try and think about the tastes and requirements of the type of person who might buy your home.

2. REPAINT

A fresh coat of a neutral paint colour can work wonders. Cover up more controversial colours, which could put off potential buyers by restricting their vision for the property.

3. FLOORING

If carpets look tired, tatty and threadbare, it’s a good idea to replace them, if your budget permits. At the very least, professional carpet cleaning can make a huge difference when it comes to brightening up a room.

4. DECLUTTER

Make the most of every inch of drawer, cupboard and wardrobe space that you have by removing unnecessary clutter. If you have somewhere to store it, you can even remove two or three pieces of furniture from each room, to really show your home’s features and create a spacious feel.

5. DE-PERSONALISE

Eliminate personal effects so that your home becomes a place where potential buyers

Soft furnishings are important and the use of luxury brands can really make a difference.

While the brands themselves are unlikely to be noticed by the potential buyer, the overall impact will be to add a quality effect.

8. LIGHT IT UP

Homes should have bright lighting to awaken the buyer’s senses. Good lighting can make your home feel more spacious and enhance its features. It may be worth investing in some brighter light bulbs for maximum impact.

9. ADD FRESH SCENTS

Use beautiful scented candles and diffusers throughout the home, but most importantly in the living area, master bedroom and master bathroom.

10. STAGE YOUR HOME

Cast your eye over your home once more and stage it like a show home for every single viewing. Staging your house like a show home will allow potential buyers to feel that it is a property they would be proud to own.

ABBATE BAND TRIBU

Saturday 19th August 7:30pm From the opening beats of Waterloo to the final notes of Thank You For The Music, Swede Dreamz will take you on a journey through some of ABBA’s greatest and most memorable hits including Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia, Take A Chance On Me, SOS, Fernando, Chiquitita, Gimme!

Gimme! Gimme!, Knowing Me Knowing You, Money Money Money and many, many more.

For more information please contact reception birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

Find us on: Your support keeps the Gardens growing

TICKET PRICE

£20

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are able to envision themselves living. In particular, replace photographs with more generic artwork.

Getting your garden ready for the summer

The weather’s heating up and it’s the ideal month for spending time outside in the garden say the horticultural team at Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

In fact, with June 21 being the longest day of the year, you can expect to see an energetic growth spurt in your garden as it soaks up the extra daylight.

Now that frosts are a thing of the past, houseplants can be placed outdoors for the summer. However, it is really important not to put them straight into full sun, as it will cause leaf scorch. Put them in a shady space to give them ‘fresh air’ and let the great British summer wash the leaves of dust. As a rule, hairy leaved plants such as Streptocarpus hate water on their leaves, so keep these inside in a shady room.

Remember to bring in any houseplants placed outside for the summer back inside in September, before the return of autumn frosts.

Although your garden is likely to be bursting with colour, the weeds will be out in full force, too. Keep these interlopers at bay by hoeing the borders regularly, particularly on the warmer days.

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weather because longer blades of grass can cope better with drought. However, even if we do have a dry spell, it isn’t necessary to water the grass, unless it has been recently sown or newly laid turf, because it will soon recover when the rain returns.

However, it is important to water vegetable patches liberally because the heat can dry them out, which could cause the plants to bolt.

If you haven’t already done so, now is the perfect time to sow runner beans. When you do, dig a trench and put in a generous amount of water retentive material because the beans will need a constant supply of water to help them grow.

You’ll also need to water hanging baskets regularly because they can dry out very quickly when it’s warm. We’ll

be tending to ours, which are full of Calibrachoa @Cabaret Hot Pink’ and Acalypha Pendula Mini Red.’ and moss collected from the American Bank in the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, daily.

Most of your houseplants can go outside for the summer – the fresh air and rain will do them the world of good. Make sure they are in a shady spot to reduce the chance of leaf scorch and bring them back inside in late September before the frosts return.

Feeling motivated? Why not visit Birmingham Botanical Gardens for more inspiration. Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham. B153TR www.birminghambotanicalgardens.

dluxetravel

t ravel HONEYMOON

DLUXE

HOTSpots

There’s no denying that organising a wedding can be stressful but there’s no better way to reward yourself after months, or even years, of planning than by booking an incredible honeymoon break. For those of you lacking inspiration, we’ve rounded up five amazing destinations, all flyable from Birmingham Airport, where you’ll be sure to make unforgettable memories with your new spouse.

DUBAI

With so much to offer, Dubai is the perfect setting for a honeymoon. Whisk your other half away to this impressive city and take a romantic stroll across the many beaches or spend a day browsing in the souqs. Drink in the glitz and the glamour of this desert oasis and treat that special someone to a beautiful gift from the Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates as a memento of your special getaway.

If your partner is an adventure seeker, take them to the top of the world’s tallest skyscraper or book a ride through the dunes in a 4x4, or on the back of a camel, to give them a thrill! If they’re fond of the finer things in life, take them to the Chillout Lounge, the Middle East’s first sub-zero lounge, and you’re guaranteed an amazing showcase of ice sculptures.

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THE MALDIVES

The white sand beaches and bright blue seas of The Maldives are enough to make anyone book a flight to this tropical paradise, not just the recently married. Over the past couple of years the popularity of The Maldives has continued to grow, and it has now firmly cemented itself as one of the most soughtafter honeymoon destinations in the world, with many couples opting to stay in one of the stunning private overwater bungalows when they visit.

holiday, book them into an afternoon of diving amongst one of the 1200 coral islands that make up The Maldives, while you enjoy some serious R&R on the decking of your gorgeous villa.

FLORENCE

Providing the idyllic backdrop to many a romantic movie, Florence boasts breath-taking vistas, world-class art and iconic domed cathedrals. Gaze at the amberglided ripples of the Arno River during a sunset stroll, admire the Renaissance architecture masterpieces and finish by tucking into traditional rustic cuisine. The best way to explore Florence is on foot – allow yourselves to be amazed by the city’s natural beauty as you wander between grand cathedrals and across romantic bridges.

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The Maldiv

A honeymoon in The Maldives offers complete relaxation – after the stresses of the big day have passed, what better way to wind down than in a luxury spa overlooking beautiful turquoise lagoons. But don’t be fooled, The Maldives has more to offer than a permanent spot on a sun lounger. If your other half is after a more active

Florence’s cuisine is an exquisite blend of traditional and contemporary, with the drink offering packing a punch too - the city is

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not escape to the beautiful Greek island of Crete. Take a hike up a mountain and discover the birthplace of Zeus or wander around chapels, churches and monasteries. If time only allows you to frequent a couple of these historic sites, make sure Spinalonga and the Samarian Gorge, Europe’s longest canyon and a popular hiking spot, are at the top of your must-visit list. You can jump on a boat tour from Elounda to the island of Spinalonga to explore the fortress which is steeped in history.

Some would argue however that the pure beauty of Crete lies within the secluded coves and stunning beaches sitting on the shores of the sparkling Mediterranean.

Wander around the tiny villages dotted along the coastline and you’ll be sure to stumble across a hidden taverna offering local meat, seafood and cheese. Enjoying local meze accompanied by live music is the perfect way to while away an evening, or three.

Crete

CUBA

Energetic but tranquil, relaxing but not boring, developed but authentic, Cuba has recently opened up as a new travel destination and made its mark on the worldwide stage. The country’s political history has preserved Cuba’s heritage, whilst its entrepreneurial spirit is bringing in new life. The beautifully-preserved vintage cars that roam the streets are reminder enough of Cuba’s colourful past.

Cuba is the perfect place to continue your wedding party…the streets of Havana are where the Spanish, Caribbean and African influences merge to create son, salsa, rumba and more. Hear salsa at the beachfront Jardines del 1830 and jazz at the intimate La Zorra y el Cuervo.

It’d be a crime to holiday in Cuba and not sample the local drink of choice: rum. The country’s economy was built on rum (and cigars) and if you asked any Cuban, we would bet our bottom dollar that they would argue rum runs through their veins! Regardless of whether you’re a fan of this traditional spirit, a visit to the Museo del Ron Havana Club is a must, if only for the free samples.

encased in Tuscan vineyards producing elegant wines. Take a trip out to the Chianti region, frequenting as many little wine-makers as you can on your route, before dining in an authentic trattoria in amongst the Italian countryside. Our top tip: prepare to indulge your appetite and embrace the city’s love of food, and you won’t leave feeling disappointed.

CRETE

If you and your loved one are craving culture then why

GETTING THERE...

You can fly either direct or one stop to each of these honeymoon destinations from Birmingham Airport with airlines including Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Monarch, Jet2.com and Iberia Express.

Florence

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TRAVEL NEWS

Emirates AddITION

Emirates will be introducing a second daily A380 service between Dubai and Birmingham, beginning 29th October 2017.

Flight EK39/40, currently operated by a Boeing 777, will now be operated by the iconic and highly popular Emirates A380.

British Airways Flights Take off from Birmingham When flight BA7025 took off from Birmingham Airport for Florence, Italy last month it marked a significant return to regional flying for British Airways. It was the first of four new regional routes launched from the Midlands and the first time British Airways’ colours have been seen at the airport for a decade.

The airline last flew from Birmingham in 2007 when the regional airline business was sold to Flybe, although Vueling and Iberia Express, subsidiaries of British Airways’ parent company, International Airlines Group (IAG), started up services and Aer Lingus has continued to

operate to Dublin from Birmingham since 1984.

The inaugural British Airways service to Florence was the first of the new routes to take off followed by flights to the popular Spanish sunspots of Malaga, Ibiza and Palma providing more than 17,000 seats to the sun from Birmingham this summer.

Flights are operated at weekends by modern Embraer 190 jet aircraft, with Eurotraveller and Club cabins and two abreast seating so everyone can have an aisle or window seat. Low each way fares from £29 are available on www.ba.com

The A380’s popularity is partly due to the fact that it features the widest individual inseat Economy Class screens in the industry, measuring in at 13.3 inches and offers over 2,500 channels on the in-flight entertainment system. The aircraft will operate in a two class configuration, featuring 58 flat-bed seats in Business Class and 557 spacious seats in Economy Class.

And with Emirates offering A380 services to a number of key destinations in the East such as Auckland, Bangkok, Beijing, Perth, Singapore and Sydney, passengers travelling beyond Dubai have an increased opportunity to fly on the A380 on both legs of their journey. As with the current service, travellers also enjoy connectivity to Emirates’ wide network of 31 destinations in the Indian Subcontinent and Africa. www.emirates.com

FLYBE ANNOUNCES NEW YEAR-ROUND ROUTE TO HAMBURG

THOMSON AND FIRST CHOICE ADD GOA AND PHUKET WINTER ROUTES FROM BIRMINGHAM Thomson will be launching fortnightly flights from Birmingham to Phuket in Thailand and Goa in India from this winter. With year round sunshine, stunning golden beaches, exquisite food and fascinating cultures it is easy to see why Goa and Phuket are such popular holiday hot spots. www.thomson.co.uk www. firstchoice.co.uk

JET2.COM AND JET2HOLIDAYS ADD PISA TO SUMMER 18 PROGRAMME Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have introduced another new and exclusive destination to its Summer 18 programme from Birmingham Airport, with the addition of three weekly flights to Pisa.Jet2. com is the only airline to fly to Pisa direct from Birmingham Airport, providing great access to the city of Florence as well as the region of Tuscany.

The three weekly flights every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday should prove particularly useful for city breakers and long weekenders. jet2.com jet2holidays.com

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THOMAS COOK INTRODUCES HOLIDAYS TO EGYPT’S MARSA ALAM

Thomas Cook has introduced Marsa Alam as a new winter sun destination from Birmingham Airport from November 2017 until April 2018, to meet the increased demand for holidays to Egypt from across the Midlands. Marsa Alam is an idea choice for some guaranteed winter sun and boasts some of the best diving and snorkelling in Egypt, including on the world famous Elphinstone reef. Holidaymakers can also visit the Wadi el Gamal National Park, home to a variety of rare bird and animal breeds. www.thomascook.com

MONARCH START FLIGHTS TO STOCKHOLM AND PORTO

Monarch is the only airline to fly to the Swedish capital from Birmingham and Porto is the fourth destination in Portugal joining Faro, Lisbon and Madeira on the network.

The airline will fly to both destinations three times a week. Fares, including taxes, start from £35 one way. To book visit monarch. co.uk

Leading regional airline will operate direct service from Birmingham starting from July this year.

Flybe will become the only direct operator on the route to Germany’s second largest city from July with choice of up to four flights a week. Hamburg is a key business destination with a vibrant commercial sector including a busy port and the new service is also expected to be popular for leisure travel being a vibrant city. One way fares are from £34.99 including taxes and charges. www. flybe.com

dluxetravel

SO FARO SO GOOD

Quietly unassuming next to its much larger cousin Spain, the Algarve boasts treasures of great natural beauty and small market towns steeped in architectural wonders that pre-date the 19th Century. DLUXE’s Andrew Winfield spent 4 days in and around Faro, capital of the Algarve, to learn about the culture, the cuisine, the history and real Portuguese hospitality.

the perfect port of call with rare Portuguese wines and traditional recipes to get us in the holiday mood.

The Algarve is a popular destination for families and couples alike and with Jet2 Holidays opening up new routes from Birmingham Airport in 2017 it is due to get even more popular. With The Algarve being only a 2 hour and 45 minute flight from Birmingham, by the time you have done the obligatory untangling of the headphone wire and flicked through the in-flight magazine, the captain is announcing the descent.

Whether you are an avid fan or not you simply cannot visit the Algarve without playing a round or two of Golf at one of the many exceptional courses the region has to offer. We stopped off for a game at the Quinta Do Lago course ; one of the leading courses in Europe and enjoyed a game followed by a post-match snack in the small but luxurious on site restaurant.

Once on Portuguese soil, our main focus was to get to a restaurant for some traditional Portuguese cuisine. Tucked away from the main road in a quaint little courtyard, Fazgostos was

After a hearty baked steak lunch we set off to one of the Algarve’s many jewels, Loule. With walkways lined with palm trees, the pretty Loule Castle and the historic Roundabout of the Gago in Coutinho Square, Loule is a sightseer’s dream. There’s enough culture here to quench the thirst of the most culturally parched.

If practicing your swing sounds far too much like hard work why not take a chilled trek through Ludo up towards Gigi Beach and through the heart of the Algarve’s natural sea salt pans; one of the Algarve’s biggest exports. As a reward for all that walking you can grab a cool cocktail at Gigi’s Restaurante. Situated on the edge Gigi’s Beach, this gem is renowned for its daily caught sea food and the freshness of its ingredients.

The Algarve is a true luxury destination with enough activities to keep the discerning explorer occupied and beautiful beaches to keep sun bathers busy. With routes to Faro from Birmingham Airport, it’s never been easier to indulge in this little slice of luxury.

WHERE TO STAY THE CONRAD HILTON: The Conrad oozes luxury and commands attention. The stylish and sophisticated cylinder shaped lobby was built to resemble an 18th century palace and boasts beautiful views outside of the imposing front and rear windows. The hotel features outdoor pools, a luxurious sauna and spa as well as a world class gym. Once in the room, it was hard to imagine what else a person could need from a hotel but having a TV at the foot of the bath has now been added to the at home wish list.

EPIC SANA: Epic by name, epic by nature, this hotel is all focused on relaxation and wellness. The Epic Sana boasts prime positioning right on the beach with its own private access for guests. Whilst here you can take part in yoga classes, relaxation classes and use the stylish and chic sauna and spa. The hotel houses two restaurants; an A La Carte - chic dining experience and a buffet style restaurant with more choices of food than variations of jelly beans you are sure to find something to indulge the pallet.

ANANTARA VILAMOURA: The Anantara Vilamoura is a hotel that has been completely refurbished and was actually completed on the day of our arrival. This is a luxurious hotel with amazing views over the world famous Victoria Golf Course. The main restaurant in the Hotel; “Emo” is not only beautiful but the food served here is of the highest quality and it seemed that every detail had been thought about not once but twice over to ensure the absolute best in quality.

Jet2 Fly seven days a week from Birmingham Airport to Faro throughout the summer. Find out more and book online at www.jet2.com dluxe-magazine.co.uk 47

dluxetravel

STYRIA

THE GREEN HEART OF AUSTRIA

Styria, the Green Heart of Austria, is a hospitality, relaxation and adventure destination whose snow-capped mountains and natural geothermal spas are sure to steal your heart writes dluxe Magazine’s Stephen Goddard.

Graz Styria’s capital, the second largest city in Austria and home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites- will surprise you at every turn with its eclectic medieval architecture and lively creative scene. A visit to the old town is a must with its many historic buildings and churches - don’t miss the Cathedral; a relatively uninspiring building which hides a spectacularly decorated baroque interior!

While away an hour so at Mehplatz Square (known locally as Graz’s ‘Bermuda Triangle’) which is lined with boutiques, cafes and shops and is the perfect place to relax with a glass of Uhudler and soak up the sun with the locals.

For the best view in town take the Schlossberg Funicular to the Schlossberg where you can ramble around the fortress or simply dine at Aiola Upstairs and enjoy exquisite cuisine and spectacular vistas of the 48dluxe-magazine.co.uk

Schladming Dachstein To the west of the region lies Schladming Dachstein, one of the top five tourist regions in the Alps which boasts world-class pistes and cross-country tracks that cater for everyone from the amateur to the athlete. With 230 piste kilometres to enjoy and activities from sledding to fatbiking you will not have time to be bored!

A clear day is the perfect time to take in the breathtaking landscape of lush meadows, forests, mountain summits and lakes from the top of Der Dachstein where you can also enjoy a visit to the Ice Palace, but not before a walk along Austria’s highest suspension bridge which clings to the rugged mountain edges 400metres in the air. Relax at the end of a hard day in one of the 98 quaint ski lodges such as Hotel Starchlhof which is located directly on the slopes.

GETTING THERE...

Travelling to Austria is easy with BMI Regional who are the only airline in the UK to offer direct flights from Birmingham Airport to Graz. All fares are inclusive of 23kg hold luggage, complimentary drinks and snacks on board, allocated seating and speedy 30 minute check-ins.

Fares from Birmingham to Graz cost from ÂŁ99 one way. www.flybmi.com city and beyond. The perfectly located Das Weitzer hotel is a great place to stay whilst in Graz.

Thermenland 40 minutes from Graz are the sun-kissed orchards, endless vineyards and sparkling thermal pools of the Thermenland region. Rich in natural treasures with more than 1700km of biking tracks, four wine trails and even a castle route comprising of 16 castles, there is ample opportunity to explore the gorgeous surroundings. But if the outdoors is not for you then why not lose yourself in one of the 6 spas the region has to offer? Base yourself at the Falkensteiner Therme & Golf Hotel in Bad Waltersdorf which offers an 18 hole golf course, 2,500m sq wellness area with indoor and outdoor pools, luxury spa facilities and a vast breakfast buffet that is guaranteed to set you up for the day.

Not to be missed in this region is a visit to one of the many Buschenchanks such as Weingut Glatz in Bad Waltersdorf. These rustic, inn-like buildings are often in beautiful surroundings and are run by local winegrowers who serve delicious home grown, local food alongside some fantastic wine tasting. dluxe-magazine.co.uk 49

dluxetravel

Projekt Spielberg If you need a hit of adrenaline then take a trip to Projekt Spielberg.

Sitting at the foot of the Austrian Alps this high energy recreational theme park offers everything from driving experiences, go-karting, off-road experiences and even rally car experiences where you can race around the track with a motor sports legend.

Served by 9 culinary establishments offering excellent cuisine you will not go hungry. The Schonberghof is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch with impressive views over the distant racetrack, and if you like it that much, there are plenty of good hotels in the region to spend the night and extend your stay.

dluxeluxury

IF YOU’RE INVESTING IN YOUR AUDIO & AV, YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE AV SHOW AT The ICC/HYATT ‘Try before you buy’. It’s a cliché because it’s true, but the reality of attempting to follow these wise words, particularly in the fast-moving world of music and TV technology, can be somewhat, shall we say, challenging. This autumn, though, help is at hand. The Audio & AV show brings the world’s leading audio and AV brands to Birmingham, enabling its visitors to leisurely view, experience and buy, the latest top tech.

Whether you are considering getting into (or back into?) vinyl, are tempted by the latest music streaming systems, or are due a new set of headphones, this is a chance to try the latest audio kit and, at the same time, get invaluable guidance from the experts. The latest smart TV’s, will also be on display, bringing the likes of curved screens and striking 4K technology and all their derivatives to a single, smartly appointed location.

The event takes place over the weekend of Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th of September 2017 at the Birmingham International Convention Centre (ICC) and Hyatt Regency Birmingham hotel. Created by a team of hugely experienced show organisers, and in partnership with Superfi, one of the UK’s leading hi-fi and home cinema specialist retailers, the Audio & AV show has (literally) got you covered – the city centre

hotel is directly linked to the ICC making travelling between the two show zones a synch.

Both the Hyatt and the ICC are ideal for hosting this event, bringing the space necessary to properly display the equipment, as well as providing comfortable surroundings for visitors. Expect to hear some of the world’s finest audio systems, enjoying them in not only smart surroundings, but also ones in which the organisers and exhibitors will create ideal listening environments. And remember to bring your own music and prepare to relax, taking your time to hear how your tunes sound on what may be your next home audio system.

And once you’ve had a listen to the systems, you can get great advice from massively experienced exhibitors. In many instances, the guys and girls exhibiting in Birmingham are also the people who design the actual products. How often in life can you go shopping, and before you buy, speak with the people who designed the products?

The same good news applies for those looking to checkout the latest TVs and associated technology.

Brands already confirmed include LG, Panasonic, and Samsung and the space provided by the show enables visitors to experience sensational TVs in bespoke exhibition environments. The show is a family affair,

too, so bring the clan and compare notes. How does the TV picture look from an angle? How does it sound when playing movies? Is it good for gaming? This is an opportunity for the family to get together and have some productive and, no doubt, ‘lively’ discussions about which telly is best.

And when you fancy taking a break from enjoying the great sounding music and stunning pictures, the show offers breakout areas where you can grab a coffee, relax, thumb through your brochures, and plan your next move. Nourishment – from an on-the-go snack to a sit-down meal – is also on the agenda, so there should be no excuses for not spending the entire day taking advantage of what the show has to offer.

Visitors should also prepare for a few surprises. Many of the products on show will be receiving their debut in the UK, and even global, show outings, so you’ll be among the first to lay eyes and ears on the absolute latest technology. You can also prepare to experience some of the world’s finest audio systems, put together by connoisseurs and coming in at six-figure sums. This is a chance for the pros to dazzle and an opportunity for them to demonstrate that everyone can ‘hear the difference’, not just those with ‘golden ears’.

Event Organiser Roy Bird said “The move to Birmingham was a very important decision for us, as this major City has never had such a show before, so in many ways has an untapped market; and with the

recent demise of the Gadget Show a real technological vacuum had been left behind for the two main elements of the Audio & AV Show. Also the use of two quite different, but complementary venues, both of high class, has allowed us to provide for pretty well every Exhibitor and Visitor expectation over the two days of the show “ Whether you reckon you have golden ears, or not, the Birmingham show is a golden opportunity for music and movie fans to adhere to the ‘try before you buy’ maxim, and all in the comfort of the luxuriously appointed Hyatt Regency Birmingham hotel and the spacious Birmingham International Convention Centre. Shopping shouldn’t be hard work, so if you want to experience the latest gear in the world of audio and TV, make a day of it and head to the Audio & AV show this September.

THE FACTS: SATURDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2017 10:00AM 6:00PM SUNDAY 17 SEPTEMBER 2017 10:00AM 4:00PM TICKETS GO ON SALE JULY 1ST chestergroup.org/theaudioavshow/2017

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RILEY RAVEN

SUMMER DINING AT HARVEY NICHOLS W I N E T A S T I N G WITH SIOFRA O’BRIEN

Head Chef at Harvey Nichols Birmingham MARK WALSH shares one his favourite summer recipes – duck with carrot puree, coriander and mango.

INGREDIENTS Four duck breasts.

Three teaspoons coriander seeds.

Five carrots.

Salt and pepper.

2cm cube butter.

90g coriander leaves.

250ml vegetable oil.

Three ripe mangoes.

One large pak choi.

METHOD 1: Prepare the coriander oil the night before: Put around 50ml of oil in the blender and whizz on high speed, slowly adding the coriander leaves.

Once blended add the rest of the oil. Lay a porous cloth in a colander and sieve the oil into a bowl. Cover and leave in the fridge over night.

2: To cook the duck: Trim any excess fat and score the skin in a criss-cross pattern with a very sharp knife in 1cm intervals.

Toast 2tsps of coriander seeds and crush to season the duck.

Place the meat skin-side down in a cold, non-stick pan on a medium heat without oil for six-eight minutes or until golden brown. Pour off the fat regularly and seal the other side for 30 seconds. Place the duck skin-side up on a rack in a roasting tin in the middle of the oven and cook for

six-ten minutes. Once the duck is cooked, rest in a warm place for a further ten minutes.

3: Carrot purée: Peel the carrots and cut into 1cm pieces. In a saucepan dry-fry 1tsps of coriander seeds until they start to smell citrusy then add the carrots, cover with water and season with the salt and pepper. Simmer until the carrots are completely cooked through then strain off the water and keep to one side.

Put the carrots and the seeds in a food processor and whizz up on a low speed, slowly add some of the water and the butter, and blitz until velvety smooth.

4: Mango discs: Peel the mangoes and slice them into 5mm slices. Cut three small 10-15mm discs using a round cutter. Take the remaining fruit and blend until a smooth purée; put in a plastic piping bag and refrigerate until chilled.

5: Pak choi: Cut the root off, separate each leaf and wash, wilt in a pan and then lay on the plate. Plate up the rest of the ingredients as shown in the photograph.

On the new Harvey Nichols Summer Menu Head Chef Mark Walsh has created a delicious lamb loin dish, with courgettes, peppers, anchovies and tomato jelly. Wine Specialist Siofra O’Brien recommends two great bottles that perfectly compliment it.

Harvey Nichols Douro Red 2011 £16.50: Sourcing grapes from the estate’s oldest vineyards, this complex red blends Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz. It has been produced with equal care and patience by talented winemaker Jorge Moreira at Quinta de la Rosa. It displays notes of dark cherry fruit, mocha and spice supported by supple tannins and a touch of oak.

Restless River Cabernet 13, £45: This is a wine for a special occasion – a Cabernet Sauvignon which is elegant and perfumed; it expresses ripe blackcurrants and berries, crème de cassis, cherries and a lovely herbal fragrance. It’s certainly a sophisticated choice thanks to its firm, fine tannin structure and rich fruit flavours.

The notes of savoury black olives and toasty oak compliment the lamb beautifully, and will develop further layers of complexity over time.

This dish is available from the new Summer menu at Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

The restaurant at the luxury Mailbox store is open Sundays from 11am-10pm; Mondays from 10am-7pm; and Tuesdays-Saturdays from 10am-10.30pm.

Try a different wine region or grape variety each month. Join Siofra O’Brien in the Harvey Nichols Wine Shop every Wednesday to enjoy complimentary drop-in taster sessions from 7pm-8pm.

Afternoon Tea is served daily from 3.30pm-5.30pm. To book, call 0121 616 6028 visit harveynichols.com or email reservations.birmingham@harveynichols.com.

Booking is essential, call 0121 616 6024 for more details.

52 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

dluxedining

ADD SOME TIFFIN

TO YOUR TEA When I think of afternoon tea my mind instantly conjures up images of country houses and grand drawing rooms, delicate Victoria sponges and cucumber sandwiches – a very English institution. So when invited to sample the afternoon tea at Praza, a stylish, modern Indian restaurant in Birmingham city centre I was both a little confused and very intrigued writes Dluxe Birmingham & Solihull’s Martin Farrow.

I was reassured that this was going to be a good experience straight away with the arrival of my first drink. The afternoon tea can be upgraded to include either a glass of sparkling wine or the house gin and tonic and am I ever -glad I opted for the gin and tonic! Crazy Lassi gin is quite simply like no other gin I’ve ever tasted; smooth and fragrant with layered flavours of turmeric, cumin, black pepper and host of others which combine to make it utterly delicious and a perfect accompaniment to the dishes that were to follow.

On to the food itself, the menu provided a wide range of different treats and can be provided completely meat (and egg) free. Being something of a carnivore however I opted to sample the whole menu, though being an Indian menu many of the dishes were vegetarian and certainly didn’t suffer for this.

Starting with the pre-appetiser of Dahi Puri Chaat, you’re instantly made aware that this menu is something a little different, and a little special. A crisp pastry shell stuffed with chickpeas, potatoes and a mix of chutneys all in a bite size piece, it bursts deliciously and oddly refreshingly in your mouth. A lovely spiced flavour, but really this one is all about the texture and it’s difficult to beat - I could have eaten a dozen.

Before I could request more Dahi Puri Chaat, we were presented with the main event: the Indian Afternoon Tea. Beautifully displayed on a traditional three tier serving stand and with more than a dozen different delicacies to try there was no chance I was going to go hungry.

The savouries included chicken tikka sandwiches, lamb or paneer Khatti rolls, samosas and mini kachori among others. All of the dishes were a success, looking and tasting fantastic and going really well with the Indian tea which was served alongside (more on that in a moment). The standout here for me was the lamb Khatti roll- slightly spicier than most of the other dishes with an absolute riot of flavour and a ton of exquisitely cooked lamb stuffed into a delicious soft roll. Its vegetarian counterpart, the paneer Khatti roll, had milder flavours but was equally tasty.

Back to that tea, there are a choice of two (Classic Ginger and Cardamom Chai or Praza’s Special Peppercorn and Bay Leaf Infused Black Masala Chai) and I opted for the Ginger Chai. It was wonderfully aromatic with strong, but not overpowering ginger flavours and complemented both the sweet and savoury dishes. I have to be honest though, I also had myself another of the Crazy Lassi gin and tonics as they’re far too good to resist.

“the proof here is quite literally in the pudding and my sweet tooth was well and truly satisfied.”

The sweet portion of the meal is what I was most looking forward to trying, having never really thought of Indian cuisine as having a strong dessert side. Whilst there’s none of the fanciness that comes with some dessert trays, the proof here is quite literally in the pudding and my sweet tooth was well and truly satisfied. There are two standouts here, the first being the Chocochori, which is a coin of light, flaky, buttery pastry stuffed with a delectably rich dark chocolate filling. To refresh the palate after that confection is the Bhapa Doi, a tangy mango steamed yoghurt with a delightful creamy texture and served in a shot glass.

If I was to pick anything to criticise it would be – perhaps blasphemously – the scones, cream and jam. That’s not to say they weren’t excellent, they were, with a delicate hint of cinnamon in the scones, but they did seem out of place in this most different of afternoon teas and I don’t feel the experience would suffer if they were to be omitted.

Ultimately, the Indian Afternoon tea at Praza starts at £18.95 per person and is a beautifully flavoured, beautifully presented and beautifully different take on the traditional afternoon tea. I for one will be returning, and not just for the gin!

Praza, 94-96 Hagley Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham dluxe-magazine.co.uk 53

dluxe dining

REVIEWED: ROFUTO It is said that Rofuto serves the finest Japanese dishes in an exclusive loft lounge environment. A tall tale? As someone whose career began in restaurants, I needed to investigate. With Katana in hand I headed for the heights of Birmingham writes Guy Etchells.

From Broad Street you enter Rofuto through either Birmingham’s new Park Regis hotel or the more direct entrance on the Five Ways Island. Here a concierge directed us to an express lift direct to the restaurant where you form one immediate conclusion... Rofuto is a sumptuous environment.

A 360 degree panoramic view of a skyline that very few have witnessed gives the space an incredibly exclusive feel; one can’t help imagine bumping into a few celebrities as you lean against the western style cocktail bar beneath beautiful circular Japanese fishing nets. The overall design and colour pallet here is western but dishes, bowls and bottles are Japanese. Rofuto is an elegant fusion of Japanese and western influences.

It has taken the best of each and combined them to create a contemporary experience.

Rofuto though is not just a modern Japanese restaurant it’s also Pan Asian meaning that it serves recognisable dishes from various Asian cuisines and it does this with flare and creativity. You can expect to be tempted with such dishes as Sushi, Dim Sum, Tempura, Gunkan and Maki. We visited to sample the new, redesigned menu and what you quickly 54 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

realise is that every aspect of the food here is a visual and taste spectacle.

Starters range from £3 to £10 and on the advice of our knowledgeable waitress, I chose Black Cod Kushiyaki and the Sushi Chef’s Selection Platter with Wasabi and pickled ginger. Mains range from £17 to £45.

I ordered the succulent Beef Sirloin with black garlic (arguably the best I have ever tasted) and a Sesame Otoro Tuna Tataki with a Pine nut crust. The crust sharply contrasted with the beautiful tuna in a way I hadn’t experienced.

Desserts are priced between £6.50 to £8.50. A new addition is Miracle Berry, described by our waitress as a taste sensation... she wasn’t lying. There’s a delightful sequence to eating it. Firstly, you sample what I affectionately referred to as the ‘Vera Wang’ of Sorbets (try it and you’ll understand) to refresh the palate. You follow this by tasting the main dessert which was a Cheesecake, Panna cotta, ambrosial combination. You then repeat the sequence. It was a surprising delight.

I tasted my first Japanese whisky, Nikka From The Barrel and two types of Sake. Akashi -Tai Junmai Ginjo, a sparkling light cool Sake and Akashi –Tai Shiraume Umeshu, a warm rich nectarous Sake reminiscent of cosy winter nights.

My experience at Rofuto became a psychological as well as a physiological one.

I’ll tell you why. It’s the apprehension. Not only about how the food will taste but how it will be presented. I felt very comfortable asking

questions and was guided well. Our waitress had a disarming manner which resulted in a nice balance of interaction throughout the evening.

Subsequently, you delight in the fact you can’t decide where to begin, you get to share this joy with others at your table and then watch them go through a similar process. I found the conversation, laughter and excitement with my guest was centred entirely on the food experience. When you think about it, what better way is there to dine?

Look out for Shibui Supper Club, a special event on bank holiday Sundays where Rofuto conjures up a spectacular menu followed by soulful music such as Neo Soul, Funk, Hip Hop and Groove.

Rofuto is at the Park Regis Hotel, 160 Broad St, Birmingham B15 1DT. Tel 0121 369 8888

Stunning apartments great locations

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Typical apartment lounge

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They can also take advantage of Part Exchange*, so they can be in complete control of their move and we can help make the move as hassle free as possible. Many of our homeowners say it’s the best move they’ve ever made.

Your own privately-owned Retirement Living apartment, in a stunning development offers*: A House Manager who takes care of the day-to-day running Camera entry and 24 hour call system for added peace of mind Homeowners’ Lounge for socialising Beautiful gardens all year round Guest suite for family and friends^ Our Retirement Living PLUS developments also feature: - An Estate Team on-site offering help and support 24 hours a day - Table-service restaurant serving hot lunches daily^ *Features may vary by location ^ At an additional charge

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Come & see for yourself Call free on 0800 201 4728 or visit mccarthyandstone.co.uk/westmidlands *T&Cs apply. Offer only available on selected new apartments at listed developments. Agreement is subject to survey, contract and terms and conditions of the Part Exchange Company. Part Exchange is capped at £450,000 for dependent properties, any amount over this limit is subject to negotiation. Recommended Agents and Solicitors must be used on order to qualify. Not available in conjunction with any other offer or promotion, or on resale properties. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Written details available upon request.

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dluxe dining

DINING DIGEST May has been an amazingly busy month for fabulous restaurants in the city, Oko, Gaucho and Primitivo all had their launches in one week writes second city social butterfly and dluxe Dining correspondent Anita Champaneri. Read more food news at www.dluxe-magazine co.uk and msdelicious.blogspot.co.uk

Anita

PRIMOTIVO

One of Birmingham’s best loved bars made its much-anticipated return to the city after a 21-month hiatus. Primitivo Bar & Eatery, based on Barwick Street in the heart of Colmore Business District, reopened to the public. The bar and eatery, which was forced to close as part of The Grand Hotel redevelopment works, returned to the city’s thriving hospitality scene with a brand new interior, but promises to still offer its Continental-style dining and relaxed atmosphere. The planned expansion into the adjacent unit is a must as its heaving on a Friday lunchtime!

FESTIVAL FUN

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Let’s not forget all the fab Food Festivals coming to the city this summer. The UK’s biggest food festival, funnily enough called the Foodies Festival, returns to Birmingham’s Cannon Hill Park from 23rd to 25th June and you’ll get the chance to see Great British Bake Off Winner 2016 Candice Brown baking live as well as our very own Michelin starred Chefs Brad Carter and Nathan Eades cooking up their signature recipes.

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Glynn Purnell returns to open the Colmore Food Festival on 30th June and 1st July in Victoria Square and the Birmingham Cocktail Weekend is in July with all the best cocktail bars taking part like Aluna, The Botanist, Alchemist and Hotel du Vin. Last but not least, the Birmingham Food Drink & Hospitality Awards has expanded into the Midlands Food Drink & Hospitality Awards. The awards ceremony recognises the very best restaurants, bars and pubs and people who put their heart and should into the city’s hospitality scene. Look our for the winners next issue.

NRI

Another top class Michelin chef is coming to Birmingham. Acclaimed Indian chef Atul Kochhar has announced he will be opening a new restaurant in the Mailbox this autumn called NRI, which stands for Not Really Indian! It looks like a a twist on the phrase Non Resident Indian, a nod to Indians’ immigration status coming to the West.

Atul is only the second Indian chef to receive a Michelin star. He received one in 2007 for his London restaurant Benares - regarded as one of the world’s best Indian restaurants.

The menu will “showcase high-quality but affordable spiced dishes that draw inspiration from the chef’s travels around the globe.”

56 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

OKO

From something old to something new… As I suspected, Oko wasn’t a new restaurant, the owners of Nuvo have merely introduced a different food offering in the week.

My thoughts were confirmed when it was announced that the downstairs area was now a sushi restaurant offering a menu of dim sum, sashimi and sushi. Let’s see if their food offering sets the city’s appetite on fire.

diary

DLUXE What to see and where to be in the West Midlands this season

Hairspray

9 - 14 Oct @ Birmingham Hippodrome www.birminghamhippodrome.com Baltimore, 1962. Tracy Turnblad is a big girl with big hair and an even bigger dream: to dance her way onto national TV, and into the heart of teen idol Link Larkin. Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for integration. But can she win equality – and Link’s heart – without denting her ‘do? Featuring the hit songs Welcome To The 60s, You Can’t Stop The Beat, The Nicest Kids in Town and many more.

The Play That Goes Wrong

19th June – 24th June @ The REP www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are putting on a 1920s murder mystery and as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong… does! As the accident prone thesps battle on against all the odds to reach their final curtain call, hilarious results ensue!

Named “The funniest show we’ve seen!” by Ant & Dec this multi award winning West End comedy is one not to be missed.

WNO – Die Fledermaus

28th June @ Birmingham Hippodrome birminghamhippodrome.com

Nonsensical but wonderful John Copley’s production is heart-warming and full of splendour, posh frocks, masks and comedy! Coming to the Hippodrome this June.

Beverley Knight

26th June @ Symphony Hall www.thsh.co.uk

Kiefer Sutherland

After a 6 month run in the smash hit West End musical The Bodyguard and last year’s release of her Top 10 album ‘Soulsville’ Beverley Knight is touring the UK where she will delight audiences with hits from her fabulous career as well as highlights from her newest album!

21st June @ O2 Academy Birmingham www.academymusicgroup.com/ o2academybirmingham

90’s Heartthrob and most famous for his TV roles in ‘Flatliners’ ‘The Lost Boys’ and ‘24’ Kiefer Sutherland has turned his talents to music. ‘Down in a Hole’ Kiefer’s album was released last year and he is now ready for a European Tour!

Three Short Ballets

21st – 24th June @ Birmingham Hippodrome birminghamhippodrome.com

Le Baiser de la fée, Pineapple Poll and Arcadia will make up this 2 hour and 40 minute performance and will complete the

Ricky Gervais: Humanity

28th June @ Barclaycard Arena www.barclaycardarena.co.uk

Ricky Gervais hasn’t toured for 7 years and he is returning with ‘Humanity’. After four international tours to date he is considered one of the most influential British comedians since Charlie Chaplin! His return to the stage is bound to be one of his best.

Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom

28th – 29th June @ New Alexandra Theatre www.newalexandertheatre.co.uk

Enchanting, magical and musical, filled with games

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dluxediary

Birmingham Royal Ballets 2016/17 year in an enthralling triple bill. Don’t miss out on this one.

dluxe diary

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Tommy Hilfiger

Fashionistas and networkers from across the city were invited for a special preview of Tommy Hilfiger’s latest spring summer range at the brands Mailbox store in association with Fraser Urquhart Media and dluxe Birmingham & Solihull.

songs and laughter, the adventures of Ben and Holly will delight all the family in this show. Young fairy Princess Holly and her best friend Ben the Elf live in the Little Kingdom getting up to all kinds of miniature sized

1st July @ Mac Birmingham macbirmingham.co.uk

This newly remastered compilation includes handpicked sections of the best of the brilliant BBC children’s series, The Big Knights.

Set in the far away land of Borovia, where the dragons are fierce and the witches are wicked, comes to you

Guests were not only treated to champagne and canapes from Tom’s Kitchen but also to an exclusive on-site monogramming service on all goods purchased that night.

Images by Edwin Lad of Social Frames

mischief.

Quill

1st July @ The Core Theatre thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

The Country, Foll, Celtic Rock band return after brilliant reviews. They have re-invented themselves with new members and will playing some of your old favourites but with the addition of tracks from their new album.

The Big Knights, Kids Screening

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from the award-winning animators behind Peppa Pig.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time 4th – 8th July @ Birmingham Hippodrome birminghamhippodrome.com

Christopher is 15; he is extraordinary, with exceptional skills in maths, yet unable to interpret everyday life. This story

Tue 27, Thu 29 & Fri 30 Jun

Madam Butterfly Puccini

Wed 28 Jun, Wed 1 & Sat 4 Nov

Die Fledermaus Johann Strauss II Sat 1 Jul

Der Rosenkavalier Richard Strauss

Wed 19 Sat 22 Jul

Wed 26 Jul Sat 23 Sep From £30

Tue 3 Sat 7 Oct From £16

Mon 9 Sat 14 Oct From £19.50

Wed 18 Sat 21 Oct From £12

Tue 24 Sat 28 Oct From £17

Mon 13 Sat 18 Nov From £23

From £16.50

d e xe c la an l Re orm 3 Ju rf n Pe Mo £8

Mon 3 Sat 8 Jul From £20

Tue 27 Jun Sat 1 Jul

From £19.50

Everyone’s Welcome 0844 338 5000 birminghamhippodrome.com Calls cost 4.5p per min plus access charge. A 5% transaction charge may apply (excl. cash sales in person).

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COLMORE CURRY CLUB

Over 75 business professionals joined SimkissGuy Recruitment to celebrate the 4th anniversary of its spicy networking event, The Colmore Curry Club.

Held at award-winning Indian restaurant Itihaas, the event has welcomed almost 2,400 attendees since its conception in 2013 with a guest list of just 18. In addition to its regular serving of naan and networking, the sold-out event also saw guests treated to a special street food festival menu including a delicious selection of meats, vegetables, rice and dahl.

A passionate supporter of local charity, LoveBrum, the event also managed to raise over £350 for the organisation.

For more information on how to attend a future event please visit www.simkissguy.com

Community Spirit

9th July @ Symphony Hall www.thsh.co.uk

Celebrating some amazing local talent and immersing you in a range of genres, from folk to pop and classical to gospel, this evening of incredible choral

takes him on a journey that will change his world.

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)

5th – 9th July @ The Old Joint Stock www.oldjointstock.co.uk

A high speed rollercoaster ride through the entirety of The Bard’s plays, all 37 in 97 minutes! Fast paced and hilarious this show will squeeze all the tragedy, heartbreak and comedy into one jam packed evening.

You’ll be left breathless and helpless with laughter.

Progress Wrestling Presents Chapter 51: Screaming for Progress 9th July @ O2 Academy Birmingham academymusicgroup.com

The rehearsed formula of normal wrestling is thrown out the window in this version of the sport which is now all grown up, in this

music is one not to be missed and includes their renowned associate artists, Black Voices.

In the Night Garden Live

12th – 30th July @ Cannon Hill Park www.birmingham.gov.uk

The world’s only live performance of the Cbeebies favourite, In the Night Garden, it takes place in its own all-weather inflatable snowdome with facilities for all the family.

Providing an immersive theatre experience that is a hit with the children, complete with Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and more!

The People’s orchestra Presents Legends: Superhero Symphonies

22nd July @ New Alexandra Theatre Birmingham www.newalexandertheatre.co.uk

The latest concert from The People’s orchestra will see the greatest soundtracks to your favourite superhero films including Superman, Batman and Spiderman performed as part of their Legend Series. As well as a special live accompaniment to an all-new X-Men fan film, Cable: Chronicles of Hope.

Billionaire Boy

25th – 26th July @ Brueton Park thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

Award-Winning strong-style of Pro wrestling. Wrestling fans, don’t miss out.

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The David Walliams best seller about Joe – who we follow as he becomes the richest boy in the world. Mr

The Colmore Festival is one of a kind and unique in its offering to guests who visit the two day showcase event.

Not only is the event completely FREE for visitors to attend, but all dishes are capped at £4, which means you can sample the delights from many of the 33 participating venues. Now in its seventh year, the event attracts more than 30,000 visitors.

stration on Festival Friday. Friend and fellow chef Aktar Islam of Nosh & Quaff, Lasan and new restaurant Izza Pizza, will take to the stage on the Saturday of the Festival.

Michelin-starred chef Glynn describes Birmingham as ‘the centre of the universe’, and has won numerous awards and national accolades for his contemporary fine dining with an eclectic twist.

Newcomers to the District Gusto, Alchemist, Gaucho and 200 Degrees Coffee will be joining the recently reopened Primitivo at this year’s Colmore Food Festival, where you can enjoy fabulous food, great drinks as well as live music acts and cooking & cocktail demonstrations.

Glynn owns two restaurants in Colmore Business District: Purnell’s and Purnell’s Bistro, both of which will be showcased at the Festival. “What’s great about Colmore Food Festival is that it’s in the city centre,” said Glynn. “This is celebrating all things Birmingham, right in the centre of Birmingham, which is the centre of the universe as far as I’m concerned!”

Leading Birmingham chef Glynn Purnell will be making a welcome return this year and will be hosting a cookery demon-

Visit the Festival on Friday 30th June and Saturday 1st July in Victoria Square, Birmingham from 11am-7pm

30th June & 1st July, Victoria Square, Birmingham

Free entry · 11am to 7pm Dishes just £4 Live music, entertainment and cooking & cocktail demonstrations

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Glynn Purnell To Take To Stove for Colmore Food Festival

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AMALA SPA AND CLUB LAUNCHES AT HYATT REGENCY

Hyatt Regency Birmingham unveiled the fruits of their latest refurbishment - the new-look Amala Spa and Club – with a glittering VIP launch on Thursday 15th June.

The event organised by Amala Spa and Club and Hyatt Regency Birmingham, in conjunction with Fraser Urquhart Media, saw over 100 of the city’s most influential guests enjoy a private tour of the new-look spa and club, whilst enjoying canapés, healthy cocktails and taster-treatments by Espa and Comfort Zone before heading home with a thank-you goodie bag to remind them of their evening at Amala Spa. Amala Spa and Club is at Hyatt Regency Birmingham, 2 Bridge Street, Birmingham, B1 2JZ. www.birmingham.regency. hyatt.co.uk Images by Edwin Ladd of Social Frames.

alongside some crafts will be a great little outing.

Spud and his son invite you along to their garage sale as they try and raise money to buy food. Bring along all your picnic favourites!

This year the annual Stage Experience production is bringing West Side Story to life with the talents of West Midlands young performers in this huge production!

Be sure to see this classic love story and musical in Birmingham this August.

Celine Dion

27th July – 3rd August @ Barclaycard Arena www.barclaycardarena.co.uk

Miss Saigon

26 Jul - 23 Sep @ Birmingham Hippodrome birminghamhippodrome.com

Winner of a record-breaking nine Whatsonstage Awards 2015 including Best Show, this epic love story tells the tragic tale of young bar girl Kim, orphaned by war, who falls in love with an American GI called Chris – but their lives are torn apart by the fall of Saigon.

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In 2016 Celine was presented with the prestigious ‘Icon Award’ at the Billboard Music Awards, she is one of the most well respected female performers in the history of music and she is returning to Europe for a summer tour to places she hasn’t visited since 2007!

Squires and Maidens: Children’s Tour of Weoley Castle 11th August @ Weoley Castle .birminghammuseums.org.uk

Give your children an insight into what life was like in Medieval England for a little one! An exciting tour

Miranda Lambert

18th August @ Barclaycard Arena barclaycardarena.co.uk

One of country music’s brightest stars Miranda Lambert is playing one of her only 4 shows in the UK at Birmingham Barclaycard Arena. The Multiplatinum and International Award Winning artist will perform a selection of her previous hits and new tracks.

Stage Experience – West Side Story 23rd – 16th August @ New Alexandra Theatre www.newalexandertheatre.co.uk

Birmingham People and Change in the Inner City

Until 31st August @ Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery www. birminghammuseums.org.uk

This display explores how ordinary people of Birmingham have been represented in art throughout the 20th and 21st Century. The exhibition includes a range of mediums, from oil paintings to film and sculpture. Head over to Gallery 12 to pay it a visit.

4 – 16 SEP

A bold retelling of the literary classic, direct from the National Theatre

JANE EYRE

By Charlotte Brontë

5 – 16 SEP

An explosive new play about power, privilege and blood ties

THE WHIP HAND

By Douglas Maxwell

20 OCT – 12 NOV Written and directed

by Debbie Isitt

Your favourite festive film is now a major new musical

30 NOV 2017 – 13 JAN 2018

By Dodie Smith Adapted for the stage

by Debbie Isitt

Experience the magical story live on stage this Christmas

Autumn and Winter Season Now On Sale!

Box Office | 0121 236 4455 | BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK Join in the conversation

birminghamrep

@birminghamrep

@therepbirmingham Registered in England 295910 Charity No.223660

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SIAMAIS LAUNCH

Inspired by Bangkok, Siamais is a new super trendy take on a traditional Thai restaurant at Brindley Place. Quirky in style, the premium bar and restaurant is filled with oddities and curiosities such as skulls in bird cages and skeletons in jars. It’s not just the interior that’s a talking point though as the cocktails are like gothic works of art, conjuring dry ice and fire in tea cups and skull glasses. The menu is a modern representation of Thai classics and there is even a secret drinks menu which changes every month.

Music, must-see drama and murder mysteries at the Belgrade this September The Belgrade Theatre has announced an exciting lineup of music, must-see drama and murder mysteries taking to the stage this September, including a landmark production to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its B2 Auditorium.

Faithful Ruslan – The Story of a Guard Dog will run on the B2 stage to mark its 10 th anniversary, directed by the internationally renowned Helena Kaut-Howson, whose previous collaborations with the Belgrade have received much criticalacclaim. Set in 1953, following the death of Josef Stalin, the inhabitants of prison camps across Russia are liberated. Ruslan is a beautiful, proud dog, bred solely to serve as a guard in these camps, but when he’s abandoned in a world without the clear structure and organisation he’s always known, how can he possibly adjust?

This powerful new stage adaptation of Georgi Vladimov’s cult novel, is a gripping allegory for the disorientation of postrevolution Russia. Running alongside this on the Main Stage, is the raucous and rebellious Reasons to be Cheerful, celebrating the infectious music of Ian Dury and the Blockheads.

It’s 1979: Labour loses to the Tories, strikes rock the nation and Ian Dury and The Blockheads’ Reasons to be Cheerful (Part 3) climbs the charts. As the ultimate fans, Vinnie and his mates would do anything to see Dury at the Hammersmith Odeon, only the gig is sold out. But life has a habit of throwing strange things at you, and one night of frustration becomes something else entirely…This punk musical and gritty coming-of- age story is heading back out on the road, following a hugely successful nationwide tour and performance at the London 2012 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony.

Also this September, the Agatha Christie Theatre Company return to the Belgrade with their brand new adaptation of the best-selling novel by Ruth Rendell, A Judgement in Stone.

Eunice struggles to fit in. When she joins a wealthy family as their housekeeper the very reason for her awkwardness, long hidden and deeply buried, leads to a terrible tale of murder in cold blood – on Valentine’s Day. Ruth Rendell’s spine-chilling thriller uncovers a lifetime of deceit and cover-ups which, bring a shocking revelation almost as grizzly as murder itself.

Tickets for all these shows and more are available now by calling the Belgrade Box Office team on 024 7655 3055 or visit www.belgrade.co.uk for cheaper tickets online.

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Paul Smith

Paul Smith Birmingham, in partnership with Fraser Urquhart Media and dluxe BIRMINGHAM & SOLIHULL magazine, ensured the champagne flowed at a special invitation-only fashion and networking event at their Mailbox store.

The store is the city’s first standalone Paul Smith store and offers edited highlights from the Paul Smith collections for both men and women. Guests from some of the city’s leading businesses were treated to drinks and delicious canapes from Malmaison, as well as aromatic Sipsmith gins and allowed to shop the ranges, enjoying exclusive offers on the current spring/summer collections.

Images by Edwin Ladd of Social Frames.

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AUTUMN SEASON ANNOUNCED AT THE REP The REP has just announced its Autumn and Winter 2017 season including the world premières of Nativity! The Musical, Douglas Maxwell's latest play, The Whip Hand and a new commission from Birmingham writer Steven Camden (aka Polarbear), I Knew You. audiences.

Opening with the National Theatre's acclaimed production of Jane Eyre, the season also features a revival of Duet For One starring Jemma Redgrave and Oliver Cotton plus a new spectacular staging for Christmas, The Hundred And One Dalmatians.

Festival fans will be pleased to hear that The REP will be welcoming

back BEDLAM: The Festival Of Divine Madness and presenting Notorious as part of Fierce Festival . SHOUT Festival also returns to The REP with And The Rest Of Me Floats and Medea The REP will also be part of the second Birmingham Weekender, presenting the theatrical circus experience As A Tiger In The Jungle.

There’s also a wide-range of brilliant touring shows to enjoy including the critically acclaimed Man To Man starring Maggie Bain and a new opera, The Golden Dragon from Music Theatre Wales.

The Autumn Winter 2017 season is now on sale. Find out more at www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

Jane Eyre

4th Sep – 16th Sep @ The REP www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

Sidney Nolan

Until 3rd September @ Ikon Gallery www.ikon-gallery.org

This exhibition highlights a selection of Sidney Nolan’s extraordinary paintings dated from the 1980s; they are made with spray paint on canvas and feature a number of individuals that Nolan identified with including Benjamin Britten and Arthur Rimbaud.

This innovative reimagining of Bronte’s story is coming to The REP from The National Theatre and The Bristol Old Vic, collaborating to bring you the classic story of the trailblazing Jane. This bold and dynamic production uncovers one woman’s fight for freedom and fulfilment on her own terms.

The Simon and Garfunkel Story 5th September @ New Alexandra Theatre www. newalexandertheatre.co.uk

With all the hits you love, original footage, huge projections and a full live band you won’t want to miss this, join the show for the 50th Anniversary!

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The Dreamboys 6th September @ New Alexandra Theatre

www.newalexandertheatre.co.uk

This action packed show is definitely one for a girl’s night out! Hotter than ever and ready to entertain you with their striptease skills these Dreamboys are back with a brand new show for 2017! Do not miss out on this music, muscle and magic on the stage.

Crazy For You

24 - 28 Oct @ Birmingham Hippodrome birminghamhippodrome.com

Crazy For You tells the love story of Bobby, son of a New York banking family and frustrated Broadway hoofer, and Polly, daughter of the proprietor of a failing theatre in Deadrock, Nevada.

Sent to close the theatre down, Bobby falls for Polly and saves the day by putting on a show.

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BOTANICAL STYLE

Personal stylist, Beth Goodrham shared her fashion essentials for the summer season at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens Annual Style Event and showed invited guests how to style themselves for any occasion using clothes provided by John Lewis and hair styled by & Beauty at John Lewis.

Images by Edwin Ladd of Social Frames.

Guests enjoyed lunch and fizz before perusing the latest ranges and services from exhibitors including Marc Jacobs, Air Aesthetics Clinic, Captain Tortue, Jo Malone, Livto Jewellery and Sharper Millinery.

BOOK ONLINE to save money

The Ultimate Ian Dury and The Blockheads Musical 2 – 16 Sep

from £13*

8 – 9 Sep

from £19.25*

19 – 23 Sep

from £21.50*

Look for the to save 20% off the cost of your full price tickets when you book equivalent amounts for two or more participating shows at the same time.

See website for further information on ticket prices and other concessions. Ticket prices include a £1 booking fee. No booking fee applies if booked online.

BOOK NOW

024 7655 3055

www.belgrade.co.uk

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MEETING MANAGEMENT- AS EASY AS ABC

Three days left until the end of the month and you could really do without having these two meetings that you scheduled… you don’t want to be rude and cancel at such late notice, sound familiar? So how do you make sure that you make maximise your meetings and make sure you rule your schedule rather than having your schedule rule you asks dluxe Birmingham & Solihull’s Business Editor Bart Dalton.

Here are the ABCs of finishing off the month in style. The hard part is that you need to prepare them ahead of time so if you are reading this with 3 days left...sorry.

Preparation:

Agenda is a necessary element to establish where the meeting is going to begin and hopefully end in a direction that will be beneficial for everyone involved.

Background, get info on the people who are attending the meeting so that you can focus on the business at hand. This is where LinkedIn and social media will allow you to learn more.

(Use your staff to make sure that you do not spend too much time on this) The more you can prove you understand your contacts personally then the deeper your meeting will be.

Contact, email or call or text to remind that you are going to be discussing a certain topic, new product or an event or a client.

Texts and professional reminders using LinkedIn messages will give you the platform to remind your clients why you are going to be meeting and tee up one or two items that you want to discuss. Invite them to share anything that they are looking to present to you.

Place and Pace:

Action: If you can meet with them on a walk and wander then you will probably be the first person that they have met with on a Business Walk. Museums, city centre tours or a walk around a park will make this a meeting to remember. The movement will spark different conversations and it is not too bad for the waist line any way.

Breakfast: If you are going to meet and you are not in the school run parenting stage of your life then an early morning meeting can be the best. It means you are meeting with people before they have gone in to work to get lost in the minutia of their jobs.

Conferences and events: Surrounding yourself with the fervour and noise around what you are trying to sell will create true gravity towards you and your products. If you sell building goods or services then find a place in your town where there will be a large volume of your clients, contacts and influencers and use it as the basis for planning or rescheduling meetings around. You can schedule a round table off the back of people being in town.

One of the things that I get asked the most when I am doing talks to sales teams is: “How do I know when I am going to have a meeting that is going to take my Energy, Time and Focus and get me nowhere?” My response is that, “You never know for certain, but if there are any doubts then use one of the tests above. If they respond positively by agreeing to a walk around meeting or a early meeting, then you are in a good position.”

As you read through the dLuxe Paperwork there are so many great articles. Choose a few and put your plans into place. ABCs or 3s keep it simple, and we all know that even the most complex things are made of simple functions. That is how you use easy things to make Networking power moves.

Bart (BD) Dalton, Director of Taurus Wealth Management and Author of True Gravity, has a passion for helping people maximise wealth. Wealth is the ability to live life in a manner that makes you feel successful and fulfilled. www.tauruswealth.co.uk 70 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

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A DECADE OF

D E L I C I O U S SECOND CITY SURGES AHEAD Delicious PR is celebrating 10 years in business this summer. The Birmingham based PR company that specialises in the food drink and hospitality sector hosted a series of fun foodie events to mark their Delicious Decade including The Phoenix Lunch at Siamais, a celebration party at Edgbaston Boutique Hotel and Cocktail Bar and Afternoon Tea at Hotel du Vin. MD Anita Champaneri said, “Having founded the company after a career as a showbiz producer with ITV and BBC in London, I am fiercely proud that the company is really plugged into the dynamics of my adopted city. It’s been an adventure, and we want to say a big thank you to all our clients, colleagues and hospitality comrades who has been on this fantastic journey with us.”

As well as driving the Midlands Food Drink & Hospitality Awards, Anita is Ambassador for Love Brum, The Birmingham Awards, The Big Art Project, The Birmingham Youth Sports Academy and the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce. To boot, the agency has been nominated for a Best In Media Award at next month’s British Indian Awards.

Despite the recent removal of financial relief for Buy to Let investors, agents Knight Green have ranked Birmingham higher than London in relation to house price growth with demand outweighing supply by 15 to 1.

According to the agent's most recent Global Residential Cities Index, both Birmingham and Manchester are ranked higher than London in relation to house price growth.

Jonathan Stephens, Managing Director of property consultancy Surrenden Invest, whose most recent addition to the Birmingham market is the contemporary “B5” development on the city’s Southside, said “In Birmingham alone we have experienced an increasing level of interest, with approximately 15 buyers to every unit available. And this demand does not look set to falter anytime soon. Birmingham is benefiting from substantial investment in infrastructure and development and extensive job creation as many businesses move to the city. We would expect demand to continue on a positive trajectory, especially in prime, central locations.”

“B5” offers an excellent living opportunity to a growing rental market. With prices starting from just £155,000, all 100 apartments have been specifically designed for the shared rental market and will include features such as video entry access control, custom built kitchens and hard wood flooring.

For more information, visit www.surrendeninvest.com or contact Surrenden Invest on 0203 3726 499.

CITY BUSINESSMEN SWAP SUITS FOR HIKING BOOTS Leukaemia. Partner at Veale Wasbrough Vizards Clive Read, solicitor at Shakespeare Martineau Josh Hartle, acting chief executive at Coventry City Council Martin Yardley and his teenage son Tom form the team taking part in Dixons Carphone Race to the Stones on the weekend of 15th and 16th July.

Three leading Midlands businessmen are taking on an epic 100km walk in July to raise funds towards the £1m Centre Appeal of blood cancer charity Cure

The 100km route along Britain’s oldest road ‘The Ridgeway’ has ultra marathon runners, experienced walkers and beginners all taking part and this year Cure Leukaemia

is an official charity partner of the growing fundraising event. Clive, Josh, Martin and Tom all plan to walk the route in under 24 hours which will mean maintaining a very fast pace throughout and walking in the dark too.

All funds raised by the team will go towards Cure Leukaemia’s £1m Appeal to expand the Centre for Clinical Haematology at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. This transformational £3.2m expansion, which has been granted over £2m in local government funding, will begin on May 15th with completion expected in November this year. Cure Leukaemia is committed to raising the remaining £1m by December 31st 2017 to ensure the project is fully funded.

To sponsor Clive and his team go to: justgiving.com/fundraising/100kmIn24h dluxe-magazine.co.uk 71

TEN MINUTE MEETING: A

s the annual Birmingham Awards approach, we speak to business coach Jackie Cummins about winning last year’s Business Woman of the Year award and how it has changed things for her business.

How did you get involved with the Birmingham Awards? I was nominated by a previous client and business associate as to reflect my work; I was then shortlisted to the finals.

What was it like to win Business Woman of the Year? Absolutely incredible! As the category was a tough one, it included other high achieving ladies so therefore it was a great honour and a wonderful feeling that I knew would open doors for me.

Has winning the award changed things for you? Oh most definitely, it added greater kudos and value for myself and my business J21 Coaching, which significantly increased my client base. I was also invited to appear on a panel for BBC’s Newsnight; It enabled me to secure some great press coverage in Edge Magazine, Birmingham & Sutton Coldfield Observer and only earlier today Five Live TV programme contacted me to appear on their TV breakfast show tomorrow morning.

How did you end up in your current consulting role? I had already coached professionals for many years and really enjoy; fact finding, brainstorming, problem solving and discussing options and alternative solutions for professionals and charity management boards and getting results.

After a conversation with a qualified coach and mentor who said that I should definitely become a professional coach and mentor due 72 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

to my natural skills, I decided 5 years ago to make it official.

What does your role consist of? Working with professionals who are serious about making improvements or changes to their business or their business teams. Or it might be people wanting to make career improvements and those who need to work on their personal development to achieve greater results, profits, growth and overall fulfilment.

If you could start all over again, what would you change or do differently? I would probably have started my business journey, 10 years earlier although I like where I am at in my life and with my business as it is congruent with my values and lifestyle.

“Always go with your gut instinct, it will never let you down!”

What is your favourite thing about your job? Having the opportunity and privilege to work with so many wonderful clients and key businesses in the UK & USA and being part of their success journey to ensure that they are achieving great results through confidence building, high performance management training, business growth, goal setting, planning and overall positive mind-set.

What are you most proud of in the last year? Apart from winning my prestigious Birmingham Business Woman award, securing new clients in New York & Florida, including a high-end client at Goldman Sachs, New York. This is a wonderful achievement for an independent growing business from Birmingham such as J21 Coaching.

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

Having the freedom to manage my own diary, choose my clients who are a great fit for my business model and really enjoy meeting and working with so many talented and driven businesspeople and career climbers!

Jackie Cummins

Do you switch your work mind off over the weekends or are you always on backup? Yes usually, unless I need to accommodate clients on occasions that are traveling to see me from a different part of the country and require face-to-face coaching to prepare them for an important meeting or opportunity.

What hobbies do you have outside of work? I love reading biographies, interesting architecture and worldwide travel is a passion!

What do you think is the most valuable lesson you have ever learnt? Always go with your gut instinct, it will never let you down!

What does the future hold? More of my own business growth, taking my brand to other countries, working with more great businesses including their management and staff teams and propelling them to great heights!

Jackie Cummins has a broad range of expertise with clients based in the UK and USA and can assist with start ups, SME’s and individuals in the corporate sector. To find out more about how Jackie can help with your business visit j21coacjing.com or call 0121 2411 331

mind your p’s and q’s We all know that marketing your brand, products or services is gold dust for your business, but why do so many get it wrong?

So many businesses invest in marketing, but never reap the rewards and this could be down to not following the 7 P’s; you might have heard of the 5 P’s of marketing, but to get it really right you need to follow all 7.

Stephen Goddard, Creative Director and Brand Expert at KuKu Creative shares his tips of the fundamentals of successfully marketing your brand.

1 Product – First things first; is your product responsive to the needs of its target market? Is it relevant, affordable and accessible? Be honest! Second, know your product inside-out - you must be able to talk confidently about the features and benefits of your product both in person and in your marketing materials. Don’t send out mixed messages; if your product is about luxury does everything in your marketing say ‘luxury’?

2 Price – Is price an important factor to your customers and do you want to shout about it? For a discount store the customer is likely to be price driven so the answer would be yes, but if you’re selling luxury leather handbags then perhaps not. You might even be inclined to inflate the price of your handbags to reinforce your brand’s quality status.

Price anchoring is also a useful tool - by placing a premium product next to a standard one you create a clear sense of value to the customer which in turn will make the customer think they’re getting a bargain by purchasing the standard product. (look out for this technique on restaurant menus!)

3 Place – Roughly 1/5 of the cost of a product goes on getting it to the customer so think creatively and carefully about how you connect your business to your target market. What are the channel options for you?

Before the internet, Dell Computers analysed the personal computer value chain and eliminated the retailers from their distribution channel and started selling direct to the customer. This provided them with the option to pick the features they needed at a discounted price. It also furnished the company with the information available regarding

customer’s needs and requirements enabling them to predict market trends.

4 Promotion – How can you raise your customer’s interest when promoting your brand? Is it a special offer? A competition? A free trial maybe? Either way, your first step is to determine your target market and how best to reach them. A lot of money is wasted on ineffective promotion due to lack of research. Next you need the materials to let people know about it - are you focussing on social media? If so, you need a digital ad, or is your newsletter your most powerful tool? Ensure you apply a tracking code so once your promotional campaign is finished you can accurately review its success.

5 People – Ever heard the phrase “people buy from people’? Well it’s true as people are the most important element of any service. At some point in your business your customer is going to come into contact with you and/or your team so ensure the service is appropriate to the function. ie, a staff member taking an order will need to be quick, efficient and accurate whereas if your staff member is trying to sell an expensive product then relationship building and rapport are more important. Ensure you have the right people doing the right job.

6 Process – this is where you need to put your potential customers at the heart of your business. You need to consider the process they will go through before buying, during and afterwards and ask yourself - are you adding enough value?

Is the process smooth enough? Are there any uneccesary steps? Take regular feedback and be prepared to alter the process and remember that not every customer will need to go through the same one.

7 Physical Evidence – this is the physical environment, or space in which someone occupies when they consume your product, so think about the functionality, ambience and how your brand is infused into this. If this doesnt apply then are there other ways a customer can evaluate your product before buying? Show you are a minimal risk by adding credence through price promises, gaurantees or awards. By encouraging your customers to become emotionally attached to your brand they are more likley to remain loyal to you, recommend you and spend with you.

So there you have a brief snapshot of the ‘7ps’. If you would like to talk about your branding and marketing in more detail and find out how these can benefit your business please do feel free to get in touch: Twitter: @Ku_Ku_Creative Email: stephen@kukucreative.co.uk Web: www.kukucreative.co.uk

Stephen’s talent and skill in branding goes back many years, so very much a born creative. His career, which began as a freelancer quickly gained him a reputation as someone with an eye for detail and natural flair for creative concepts.

Now head of his own creative agency based in the heart of the Midlands, Stephen has advised international banks, pharmacy giants through to charities, consultants and new entrepreneurs.

DLUXpeEople CLAIRE FRY TALKS TO TOM AIKENS, OWNER OF THE MAILBOX’S TOM’S KITCHEN. When did you first get into food?

My father bought an old barn in a tiny little hamlet right the heart of Auvergne. We would go every summer and occasionally on Easter breaks. It was in an amazing spot, on the top of the hills over-looking a great lake. We had a couple of huge walnut trees in the garden, as well as a damson tree and in the lead up to summer, the grass would be littered with fields of wild strawberries, where we would just sit and stuff our faces in the sunshine. We would get fresh cow’s milk in the morning from our neighbours: rich warm milk with your cornflakes in the morning, with all that sickly cream on top, was sublime. All these food experiences, as well as all the amazing food markets we would go to in the region, must have set me on my way to becoming a chef.

Did you start cooking when you were young?

I have cooked for as long as I can remember; probably the age of 8 or so. My twin brother and I were always helping out in the kitchen with my mother. She would involve us in making cakes and home baking. We were always on hand to lick out the cake mix left in the bottom of the bowl. I have a great memory of her making milk bread, the smell was so incredible. Living in Norfolk, we had a large back garden where we grew a lot of our own fruit and vegetables so I got to learn about seasonality and how to grow and cook great produce. We grew lots of soft fruits from strawberries, gooseberries, blackberries and so on which were mostly turned into jams and stored in a large larder full of things that we’d made.

Tell us about your first job working in a kitchen?

Joel Robuchon and Pierre Koffman both contributed very much to making me the Chef I am today. Working in their kitchen was not easy, that’s for sure, but that’s probably where I learnt the most. From discipline, to solidarity and cooking techniques.

Who, or what, inspires you?

My inspirations are…. some of the world’s best chefs. Many of them were 74 dluxe-magazine.co.uk

French such as Joel Robouchon and Pierre Koffman. They have both been real inspirations in my cooking and certainly have influenced my style.

I also admire chefs like Paul Bocuse, Alain Ducasse and the Roux brothers.

Not only have they revolutionised the industry with their cooking, but they are also great businessmen. My mother was also a great influencer of mine; she was a great home cook.

What was your motivation to go from one Tom’s Kitchen to expanding the brand across the World?

I love to open new restaurants as it is always a different adventure and a great challenge. Expanding abroad is also a lot of fun as you get to discover a new environment, new produce, new tastes, which are all very good inputs to my cooking style. I want the quality of all my restaurants to remain at the top level so of course there needs to be a limit to this growth as I like to be involved in all aspects of the project which is very timeconsuming.

What made you choose Birmingham as a location?

Birmingham is a vibrant and bustling city with a thriving food scene. There is already a wonderful array of restaurants in the city, and I believe that Tom’s Kitchen adds to that and offers an exciting new option for diners in The Mailbox. Birmingham has really developed over the last few years and with the HS2 line and HSBC moving to the city, things can only get bigger and better.

What is the best advice you have ever been told and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?

You can’t say yes to everything, it’s

impossible. I am an active chef who is always on the go and full of ideas, but sometimes you have to realise when an opportunity just isn’t worth taking and that it’s healthy to let yourself breathe. For me my family always come first, even if that means saying no to something else.

When you aren’t running your restaurants, what do you like to do in your spare time?

I love sport and it gives me freedom away from the hustle and bustle of work.

I run every day which helps to focus and stimulate the mind. Giving myself time to work out, refresh and just be is very tough but investing in this has such a positive impact on my life. Time is a luxury that many of us don’t have so if I’m out running I will usually think about recipe development or my little girl Violette. A chef’s mind never stops churning over ideas!

Tom’s Kitchen is @ 53/57 Wharfside Street, The Mailbox, Birmingham. B1 1RE Tel. 0121 289 5111 tomskitchen.co.uk

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