Absolutely Buckinghamshire May 2022

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

Buckinghamshire MAY 2022

SPECIAL Inspiration and ideas for your big day

MAY 2022

Lead the

ABSOLUTELY-BUCKINGHAMSHIRE.CO.UK

FIELD THE BEST OF SUMMER FASHION WITH THE ASCOT STYLE GUIDE PLUS TOM KERRIDGE Prepare for a feast in Marlow in May NOBLE ISLE AT TEN The story of a beauty brand born in Amersham STRUTTING HIS STUFF Buckinghamshire's Anton Du Beke on his new tour

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents M AY 2 0 2 2

48

58 16

C U LT U R E AGENDA

WEDDING SPECIAL 58 COUNTRY HOUSE

ANTON DU BEKE

64 HORWOOD HOUSE

The best events across the county this month

18

Why his home life is Strictly Buckinghamshire

23 KEVIN GASKELL

The leadership expert on breaking records

Extra special locations around the UK

The venue with many different faces

68 LITTLE WHITE BOOK Meet the experts around the county

FOOD & DRINK 32 FOOD NOTES

HOME & INTERIORS 84 INTERIORS NEWS

34 TOM KERRIDGE

88 VICKY SILVERTHORN

43 JOE WICKS

93 TREND

The best bites in your local area

The latest from Marlow's chef extraordinaire

On a mission to make us all feel good

43 A B S O L U T E LYB U C K I N G H A M S H I R E .C O. U K The online guide to inspirational local living.

The latest from the industry

Declutter with the professional organiser

How colour can transform your home

O N T H E C OV E R The 2022 Ascot Style Guide (p48) (ascot.com/styleguide)

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SAMANTHA SCOTT MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM JUNIOR DESIGNER KAI NICHOLLS GROUP SALES MANAGER - SOUTH ABIGAIL GARDNER MEDIA CONSULTANTS LOUISE PEARSON, STELLA ADAMS, ANABELA KOLECI FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 07977 195732 or email: abi@zest-media.com

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588 Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors.

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

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Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYBUCKINGHAMSHIRE T wi t t e r @ABSOLUTELYBUCKS In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELYBUCKSANDBERKS We b si t e

a b s o l u t e l y - b u c k i n gh a m s h i r e . c o . u k

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Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S May issue highlights

M

1

5

Tom Kerridge On why he can't get enough of Marlow

y first experience of Marlow was when I travelled from London to eat at The Hand and Flowers some ten years ago. The hype was so much that even a London journo like myself had to see what all the fuss was about. It didn't take me long – probably after taking my first mouthful – to understand the hype.

These days, editing this fine magazine, Tom Kerridge is a regular fixture in my email inbox. He and his team seem to be on a mission to constantly come up with something fresh for one of his many venues, and The Hand and Flowers certainly doesn't look and feel like a 17-year-old. I found out what makes him tick this month – and it all starts at 4am in Copenhagen.

Food plays a key role, of course, at weddings – during the stressful build up to my own nuptials, I probably enjoyed the tasting day the most to decide on the menu. It all came flooding back putting together our in-magazine special this month, where we visit some of the county's best venues and get some top tips and advice from those in the know. Just like Marlow and Tom Kerridge, it's a marriage made in heaven.

4

Weddings Special

Everything you need to make your big day just perfect

Mark Kebble MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

Vicky Silverthorn

On what decluttering at home does for the mind and soul

2

Noble Isle

Celebrating 10 years of beauty perfection

3

Murus Art

Helping to bring affordable art into homes

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

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C A N DY CRUSH Esme is an arty, comfortable, elegant dream of a dress. Inspired by the bold kimono shapes and with clever wrap dress detailing, Esme is a beautifully innovative yet simple design. She has roomy sleeves, an adjustable wrap front and a luxurious midi skirt. £165 palava.co

SHERBERT DIP Designed with an interior corset, Anouki's pink top is crafted from tulle and features a strapless silhouette, sweetheart neckline and ruched detailing. £470 koibird.com

EDITOR’S PICK

ENGLISH ROSE Cubitts' Belgravia collection takes inspiration from iconic English gardens. Three feminine frames are shaped and sculpted between geometric and organic curves. cubitts.com

LIGHT HEART The Phileas rechargeable cordless lamp is useful and stylish both indoors and out. £115 pooky.com

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

TIMELESS APPEAL This Cartier Ballon Bleu De Cartier 33mm steel watch is available from Berry's Windsor. £5,300 berrysjewellers.co.uk

CHECK OUT Australian brand Kip & Co's colourful bedding collection includes this oral pink and golden brown check tartan linen, which will continue to soften over time. antipodream.co.uk

R OS E GA R D E N Penelope Chilvers has launched a lifestyle collection of tablecloths and napkin sets, plus a pink shopper tote bag, all printed on 100% washed linen and made in Portugal. penelopechilvers.com

R OSY TO E S The Zoya sandal is designed to bring joy and light-heartedness into our lives, with bright colours and simple, clean shapes. It's made for comfort too. £243 tanksteiger.com

PINK L A DY Be pretty in pink with this Cassiopee embroidered lace bra in sugar pink from Odette Lingerie, available up to a G cup. £98 odettelingerie.co.uk

PINK FIZZ This V-neck Boyfriend Jumper

by Winser London is knitted in a fine quality pure merino wool, a generous length that can be worn long or adjust the rib finish higher on the body and wear relaxed. winserlondon.com

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C U LT U R E

C RA I G DAV I D 16 JULY, NEWBURY RACECOURSE

Summer is on the horizon, so here’s an early shout out for an unmissable event: the Weatherbys Super Sprint Day. Always popular with racegoers, this high-octane day is an opportunity for a big day out to watch some fast and furious live action, featuring the Weatherbys Super Sprint. Newbury Racecourse have also announced that live after racing you will be able to see a fan favourite return to the Party in the Paddock stage, Craig David.

Book tickets now at newburyracecourse.co.uk

Agenda 16 • Anton Du Beke 18 • Kevin Gaskell 23 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The Agenda PHOTO: PETER GREENWAY

M AY ' S H O T T E S T H A P P E N I N G S

E XH I BI TI ON

Colourscape 28 May-5 June WA D D E S D O N M A N O R This May half-term, an immersive experience of colour, light, space and music lands on Waddesdon’s lawns.

Returning to Waddesdon for its eighth year, Colourscape is for visitors of all ages and promises an extraordinary experience you will not forget, as you explore the many different tunnels featuring a host of sensory experiences. waddesdon.org.uk

MU S I C

Camille O’Sullivan 22 MAY, TH E STA B L E S , MI LTON KEYN E S

‘Queen of the Fringe’ (BBC) Camille O’Sullivan brings her acclaimed show CAVE, back to the UK, exploring the light and the dark of Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds - one of her favourite writers - in her dangerous yet fragile theatrical style. Having sung Cave many times over the years in all his guises and characters, she decided to look at their back catalogue and put a whole show together exploring the music in all its different aspects. camilleosullivan.com

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EV E NT

RunFestRun 20-22 May ENGLEFIELD HOUSE, READING The line-up has been announced for this year’s RunFestRun, the only UK festival to combine running legends, beautiful scenic running routes and the best feel-good party atmosphere this side of the Balearics.

Basement Jaxx, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Paula Radcliffe, Colin Jackson, Steve Cram CBE and Natasha Evans are all on the billing. runfestrun.co.uk

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CULTURE • DIARY

EV E N T

Charity Fashion Show 10 May JAK & LIZA , B E AC O N S F I E L D Over the years, Jak & Liza have hosted many fashion shows for charity and this feels like the right time to do another. Expect complimentary canapés and Prosecco, and there will be an opportunity to purchase raffle tickets and win some amazing prizes, followed by a fashion show presented by Roz Tranfield. All of the proceeds from ticket sales, raffle and auction will go directly to those who need it in Ukraine. jakandliza.com

ARTIST

TO WATC H Lisa Baker picks out an unmissable first ever solo photographic exhibition by

RACHIDI BISSIRIOU Rachidi Bissiriou’s Gloire Immortelle opens in early June at David Hill Gallery in Notting Hill. This remarkable exhibition offers a previously unseen insight into one of West Africa’s greatest photographers.

It captures the spirit of a pivotal historical moment by picturing the lives and styles of those who lived it.

COURTESY OF DAVID HILL GALLERY AND THE ARTIST, RACHIDI BISSIRIOU, UNTITLED, 1970

T H E AT R E

24-28 May M K T H E AT R E Mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby has a penchant for lavish parties and beautiful women. As the sparkling façade of his world begins to slip, the loneliness, obsession and tragedy that lies beneath is revealed in one of Northern Ballet’s most treasured productions.

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic American novel is brought to stunning life. northernballet.com/the-great-gatsby

Born in 1950 in the village of Kétou, Bissiriou began photographing members of his community after Benin was finally granted independence in 1960. He inadvertently documented an intense period of seismic cultural and political shifts through his disarmingly beautiful portraits of

FOOTLOOSE 9- 14 MAY, AYLE SBURY WATERSIDE THEATRE

C

ity boy Ren thinks life is bad enough when he's forced to move to a rural backwater in America.

But his world comes to a standstill when he arrives at Bomont to find dancing and rock music are banned. Taking matters into his own hands, soon Ren has all hell breaking loose and the whole town on its feet. This is classic musical theatre to get the crowd moving.

atgtickets.com/aylesbury

PHOTO: MARK SENIOR

This Month’s Must See

PHOTO: EMMA KAULDHAR

THE GREAT GATSBY

COURTESY OF DAVID HILL GALLERY AND THE ARTIST, RACHIDI BISSIRIOU, UNTITLED, 1978

local people as he found them. The images illuminate the diversity and beauty of West African style during the period, a fusion of traditional attire and a burgeoning westernised youth culture.

Bissiriou’s innate photographic talent shines through in the delicate framing and lighting.

Rachidi Bissiriou: Gloire Immortelle, 10 June–29 July 2022. For more information visit @davidhill_photo and davidhillgallery.net

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“Strictly is a show that makes everyone feel included”

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

M O V I N G with the T I M E S Strictly Come Dancing's Anton Du Beke on his love of Bucks, life as a dad, and his hopes on returning to the dance floor on the hit show B y N ATA L I E L I

A

nton Du Beke is in a jolly mood and, like on screen, exudes a genuine warmth in person. It’s easy to see why he has become a household name, one that audiences can easily connect with.

We are chatting the day after the Royal Television Society (RTS) Programme Awards and Strictly Come Dancing has scooped the prestigious Judges’ award for breaking new ground. Strictly’s first deaf contestant, Rose Ayling-Ellis, appeared in 2021, performing a silent dance with her partner Giovanni Pernice. This moment of landmark television was noted by the RTS judges, and the show was applauded for its fresh, modern, and diverse approach.

“It’s so amazing to win this award, especially when you think how long the show has been going and it’s now into its 19th season,” explains Du Beke. “It’s going from strength to strength, is even

more popular than ever, and it’s been breaking new ground with diversity and disability. It’s just an amazing show and everyone is looking forward to its return.”

Strictly Come Dancing burst onto our screens in 2004 and has become a staple of the BBC’s autumn schedule, attracting an audience of 7.2 million viewers in 2021 on its launch night, reaching its peak in 2016, with viewing figures of 9.3 million.

What is the secret to Strictly’s ongoing success? Du Beke answers quickly. “Strictly is great stuff, simply perfect for family viewing,” he states. “What makes it so good is that we have the best band, singers, best professional dancers, production, judges, and costumes. Everything comes together perfectly, and this formula has never been interfered with – it’s just improved.

“It’s all about evolution, not revolution,” he continues. “In recent years they’ve brought in augmented reality, so you have these wonderful images on the dance floor.

From the technology to diversity – it’s a show that makes everyone feel included but,

excuse the expression, it’s not something we make a song and dance about.”

Du Beke, 55, has been dancing since the age of 14 studying contemporary, jazz, ballet and modern theatre dance styles. He later decided to focus on ballroom dancing. He joined the show in 2004 as a professional dancer, saying the opportunity to work with Bruce Forsyth was “one of the main reasons I joined”.

He swapped the dance floor for a seat on the judging panel in 2021 while Bruno Tonioli stayed in LA due to travel restrictions. It’s a role he adores. “I can’t wait for Strictly again and I will return, but in what guise I don’t know – I have yet to have conversations. But as soon as I know, everyone will know,” he laughs. At the time of writing there is press speculation that Du Beke will return as a judge.

Away from the glitz and the glamour of the dance floor, Du Beke relishes time with his wife Hannah and their fiveyear-old twins George and Henrietta at home in a village close to Beaconsfield.

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

DORNEY LAKE IN ALL ITS GLORY

“There is so much space here and there’s the golf clubs. I think it’s the best place in the world to live,” he exclaims.

The couple have candidly discussed their IVF journey and Hannah’s endometriosis diagnosis. He is on a high after celebrating the twins’ fifth birthday a few days before we speak. “I love being a dad and being with them. Hannah and I have never been ones to outsource childcare. We had children late in life and I remember Hannah was called a ‘geriatric mother’ in hospital! We want to do everything together as a family. The children are so wonderful – I know everyone thinks that about their own children!”

I wonder if being away from home is a wrench; Du Beke recently took to the dance floor at venues across the UK with former dance partner and Strictly professional Erin Boag on their Showtime tour. “It’s been tremendous touring again and making it to places like Scotland, which was cancelled during the very first lockdown in 2020,” adds Du Beke. “We’ve had an amazing time and I like going to a new theatre to perform. I only do one-nighters.

I have no desire to be away from the kids for a sustained period. The children are so small, and I want to be with them.”

Does he see any budding dance stars in his family? “The twins love dance and they have been to my shows, and they’ve loved it. They watch Strictly and their friends at school know it. It’s lovely to share this with them.”

With a holiday booked for the first time in three years, Du Beke admits he’s looking forward to time with the children. “The first time we went on holiday it was like moving home, the gear you need for two babies is staggering – they are bigger now, so they just put their shoes and coats on, and off we go!”

What have been the best parts of his career? “I love that it’s been so varied.

I’ve had two careers – the dancing and competitive dancing world, and my career in television and theatre.

That’s been a great thrill because I have always been a huge fan of theatre and variety on television growing up.

“All of my partners on Strictly have been genuinely magnificent whether they can dance or not! Ann Widdecombe was gold – people are still speaking about those times and laughing with fondness.”

Work continues as Du Beke heads on tour in May with Strictly guest vocalist Lance Ellington. “An Audience with Anton Du Beke is going to be an intimate evening,” he says. “I’m going to tell you about my career and life and we’re going to do it with song and dance. It’s going to be a great night!”

An Audience with Anton Du Beke, 13 May at the Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe (more dates across the country) – see more at wycombeswan.co.uk

The best for Du Beke Anton Du Beke’s top local picks

Burnham Beeches I love going there with the kids and also to play golf.

O d d s F a r m Pa r k Which is officially recognised as an ‘Approved Farm Park’ by the Rare Breed Survival Trust.

B e aco n s f i e ld Simply visiting the town centre.

BEACONSFIELD

Dorney Lake This is great for riding bikes; a wonderful part of the world to spend time at.

ANIMAL MAGIC AT ODDS FARM PARK

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Luxury Holiday Rentals at Glenmor Make yourselves at home in the heart of Gleneagles The Gleneagles experience is one of a kind – you can now enjoy it from the comfort of a Glenmor luxury holiday home, located in the heart of Gleneagles. On your stay you can enjoy complimentary golf for one person, plus access to all of the leisure, dining and pursuits of the 5 star estate. We have 2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties available, perfect for all the family. With prices starting from £3,500 for a 2 bed, £4,410 for a 3 bed and £4,840 for a 4 bed for 7 nights.

Find out more: GLENEAGLES.COM/GLENMOR +44 (0)1764 694321 OWN@GLENEAGLES.COM

The Timeshare, Holiday Products, Resale and Exchange Contracts Regulation 2010 requires Gleneaglesto provide you with certain key information in relation to the proposed seasonal ownership contract. A standard information form which contains this key information in relation to that contract may beobtained by contacted us via the above methods.

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CULTURE • PROFILE

Q You’ve had quite the career to date.

As a youngster, did you always possess real energy and drive to achieve things?

A Yes. I've always been curious and never accepted boundaries. I have looked for adventures and interesting ways to push myself. I grew up, very happily, in a small village and went to the local school, but always felt that there was a lot of the world that I wanted to see. I had goals from a very early age and for as long as I can remember I was determined to work hard and achieve them.

Get to know…

KEVIN GASKELL B U S I N E S S L E A D E R A N D A DV E N T U R E R

Q You were the UK MD of Porsche at 32.

At the time, did it feel like a huge step?

A It was a massive step. I had been in a number of roles for five years and watched the business fall to pieces around me.

It was so frustrating to see. There was nobody more surprised than me when I was appointed as MD. For the first year I had no idea how we were going to turn the business around. But I had a great team around me and we were so passionate about the product and brand we were selling. We learned together, dealt with the biggest problems and rebuilt a great company – and had a lot of fun doing it.

Q It’s clear you have a knack for leadership. Why do you think it suits you?

A You should probably ask the people who I work with! Fundamentally I believe that people are amazing and given the opportunity can achieve extraordinary results. My role as a leader is to create a culture where the team feel inspired because we have clear goals, work in an open and honest way, and everyone is valued for the job they do. I am happiest working with a team who are A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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NEWBURY IS THE PERFECT HOME

“I have always been curious and never accepted boundaries” determined to achieve something special.

My job is to remove the barriers.

THE RECORD BREAKING TEAM

Q What can you tell us about The Inspired Leaders Group?

A It is my own company through which I aim to give something back to businesses.

I have been fortunate to work with some fantastic people and have learned so much from them. Through TILG I offer coaching and development to leaders, strategic workshops to companies looking to move their businesses forward and keynote speaking to global clients.

Q Outside of work, you’re an adventurer too – what has been the highlight for you so far?

A I have been playing around in mountains since I was about 12 and have climbed some of the biggest mountains in the world. I have also walked to both the north and south

Q Whereabouts do you live and what do you love most about it?

A I live a few miles southeast of Newbury in a property which used to be a farm. I enjoy the peace and quiet and the scenery of the hills, trees and open fields. Watching the wildlife from my office is wonderful.

HE LOVES WATCHING BERKSHIRE WILDLIFE

poles – and I am privileged to have done much of that with my son. The highlight was our row across the Atlantic. In 2020 we set the new world record for the fastest row from Spain to Antigua. It was an amazing experience. I never expected to be in the Guinness Book of Records, but now we are!

WITH HIS SON MATT AT THE CARSTENSZ PYRAMID SUMMIT

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Q You live in Berkshire, so do you actually have the time to relax and enjoy it?!

A I do work a lot, but then I love the work I do, so enjoyment and relaxation time is relative. I don’t watch TV, but I do spend a lot of time outdoors. Usually that time is spent walking, cycling or dragging tyres around the woods. Since I live out of town and enjoy keeping fit, where I live is perfect. It is also very accessible for the road, rail and air networks.

Q If you had to pick three places you love visiting in the area, where would they be?

A I love cycling and walking the Wayfarer’s Walk around Watership Down and I have enjoyed clay pigeon shooting at the Royal Berks Shooting School for many years. At a business level I admire Camp Hopson in Newbury. I don’t enjoy shopping, but they deliver a high quality department store despite the online competition – it’s my one stop shop!

Q How do you see the rest of 2022 panning out for you?

A I have a new book, Catching Giants, out that shares the madness of rowing a little plastic boat across the Atlantic.

It shares how five novice rowers used lessons from business to beat the best and set a new world record. In August I plan to canoe the Yukon River in Alaska with my son. My daughter has just had twin girls so I'm enjoying being a grandad for the first time. Overall, I will continue my approach to life, which is that the world is full of adventure, so enjoy it.

kevingaskell.com

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!

W O N K O O B E L A S N O

WEATHERBYS SUPER SPRINT STARRING

SATURDAY 16 JULY GET GOING BOOK NOW

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‘Hilarious!’ ‘Truly Amazing’ THE STAGE

UK THEATRE

Joe Pasquale Written & Directed by Guy Unsworth

Based on the TV series by Raymond Allen

Susie Blake Sarah Earnshaw

Photo by Michael Wharley

Starring

Tue 21 - Sat 25 Jun 0844 871 7615* atgtickets.com/aylesbury* *Fees apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.

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CULTURE • CHARITY

HOST YOUR OWN FUN AND GAMES

L E T T H E G A M E S B E G I N ELEANOR'S TIME AT GOSH HAS BEEN HELPED BY THE PLAY TEAM

T

his July, Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity (GOSH Charity) will challenge children, family and friends to come together in the name of fun to raise money to support seriously ill children treated at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH).

Taking place for the first time this year, GOSH Charity Play Date will involve people across the country hosting a Play Date at home, in a garden, at a park, school or nursery on a day of their choosing during the month of July. Guests will be asked to make a small donation to their host before joining in with the fun.

We take a closer look at GOSH Charity Play Date: play time that changes lives

The concept is simple, but the impact your fundraising will have could be huge.

Anyone who signs up to host a Play Date will receive a fundraising pack complete with stickers and print-at-home bunting, posters and invitations. Also in the pack will be a collection box and a QR code to direct guests to the host’s fundraising page. And if that’s not enough, there’ll be plenty of game ideas available on the GOSH Charity Play Date website.

Each donation will help fund GOSH’s dedicated Play team who help children make sense of their treatment and recovery through games and other activities. Play is a vital part of a patient’s hospital stay and ensures they feel in control, calm and informed every step of the way. It simply allows children to be children during what can be a difficult and worrying time.

ELEANOR AND THE PLAY TEAM Eleanor, now seven, was admitted to GOSH at three-years-old and was diagnosed with hyperinsulinism, a rare condition where the body produces too much insulin. She knows first-hand how much the Play team, funded by GOSH Charity, support children during difficult times.

Eleanor says: “I like the Play team because they set up lots of fun things

for me to colour in and make. I’ve made a t-shirt for my brother, I’ve done cupcakes, I’ve done lots of crafts and I’ve made a lion head to scare the nurses with! The Play team helped me feel better about my treatment because they made it really fun.”

Eleanor’s mum, Rebecca, adds: “The Play team are an essential part of our visits to GOSH. Eleanor’s first question about any upcoming visit is when she’ll get to see the Play team.

They bring fun, laughter, distraction and support to Eleanor and our family.

“The wonderful doctors and nurses work to better the treatment of Eleanor’s illness. The Play team work to better Eleanor’s experience of being at GOSH and having to face the tests and treatments we hope will improve her quality of life.”

G R E AT O R M O N D S T R E E T H O S P I TA L C H I L D R E N ' S C H A R I T Y Keen on being part of the action? Sign up to host your own Play Date at gosh.org/playdate Any donation(s) received in relation to the GOSH Charity Play Date event(s) will be used to fund the Play Services at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust. The target for this appeal is to raise £101,250. In the event that additional donations are received over and above the target and/or the needs of the hospital or patients change, they reserve the right to redirect funds for use against the hospital’s most urgent needs.

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CULTURE • TALENT

G E T S N A P P Y Inspiring our younger generation, MK Gallery launch two exciting initiatives this month

CAN YOU TAKE A STUNNING PHOTO LIKE THIS?

“Get snapping on a phone, disposable, digital, SLR or polaroid camera” HAVE YOUR VOICE HEARD

M

K Gallery is celebrating photography this year through its Ingrid Pollard: Carbon Slowly Turning, and Vivian Maier: Anthology exhibitions and has just launched a Young Photographer competition for all young children and young people aged 4-19 (SEND up to 25 years) living in, or at school in Milton Keynes.

Entry to MK Young Photographer is free and submissions are welcome up to 17 June 2022, so there’s plenty of time to get snapping on any type of device such as a phone, disposable, digital, SLR or polaroid camera.

The Gallery is offering an exciting programme of workshops throughout May, which you can book online, to inspire children and help them develop their photographic skills. Together with artists and photographers, participants will explore different types of photographic techniques including cyanotypes, pinhole cameras, digital photography and

MK GALLERY ARE LOOKING FOR TALENTED PHOTOGRAPHERS

experimentation with different materials.

The shortlisted entries will be exhibited in MK Gallery’s Project Space, where the work will be judged by a panel of curators and photographers. All the participants will be invited to the exhibition opening on Friday 1 July and prizes awarded to both individuals and schools.

Alongside this, MK Gallery launches Amplify, a new three-month arts project running until July 2022 for young people aged 16-25 who have something to say about the world we are living in.

Young people’s voices are more important than ever in initiating change.

Through a variety of creative workshops, they will have the opportunity to explore how to communicate their concerns about current social and political issues through art, poetry and text, to best influence and foster change.

Workshops include zine making, automatic writing, text and image and performance with artists including Dylan Fox, De’Anne Crooks, Lesley Asare and Zoe Thompson from Sweet-thang zine. mkgallery.org

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A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PHOTO COMP.indd 28

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Delivering the very best organic, natural sleep through superior temperature regulation and natural hypoallergenic qualities whilst offering the practicality of machine washability.

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www.rstrouttbutchers.co.uk RS Trout.indd 30

27/04/2022 15:31

FOOD & DRINK

THE PERFECT PAIRING HOUSE OF PIPER-HEIDSIECK

Since its founding in 1785, the House of Piper-Heidsieck has proven its innovative prowess in selecting and blending wines of exception. Now, chef Eric Geoffroy, from Piano des Chefs in France, has created a dish to complement the flavours and aromas of Piper-Heidsieck Essentiel Blanc de Blancs: Tartar of John Dory, leche de tigre and fresh herbs.

Discover the full recipe on page 38. piper-heidsieck.com

Food News 32 • Tom Kerridge 34 • Joe Wicks 43 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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WHAT TO DRINK

IN THE spirit Gin recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

The latest launches and news from across the county

By MARK KEBBLE

By PUDDINGSTONE DISTILLERY

Ultrasonic Gin 50cl 41% ABV  £35 Inspired by the flight of native bats, this bold gin uses a unique ultrasonic process and pot distillation to extract flavour and aroma from the botanicals. The light finish carries notes of apple and mint. £2 from every bottle sold goes to the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.

Campfire Cask Aged Gin 70cl 43% ABV  £40 Forget any preconception about cask aged spirits. This is not smoky, it’s not woody, it’s simply delicious. Ten botanicals underpin a gin that draws its pale golden hue, soft fruity bourbon notes, hints of caramel and a lingering vanilla palate from the meticulously selected American Oak casks.

Campfire Navy Strength Gin 70cl 57% ABV  £44 Launched to critical acclaim, the rich mouthfeel and sumptuous full-bodied flavour of this exceptionally smooth Navy Strength gin belies its higher strength.

This is packed with juniper and excels in all applications, from a bold gin and tonic through to a classic gimlet cocktail. Anchors away.

The Campfire Gin range is distilled by founders and operators, Ben and Kate Marston, at the multi-award winning Puddingstone Distillery in Tring, Hertfordshire.

Alongside the four strong Campfire Gin range the distillery also produces seasonal varieties and special editions in support of conservation and wildlife projects.

puddingstonedistillery.com

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Let’s celebrate T H E I V Y R OYA L W I N D S O R B R A S S E R I E

The Ivy Collection has announced the opening of The Ivy Royal Windsor Brasserie this spring, in the year of Her Majesty the Queen’s much-anticipated Jubilee. Located within the heart of Windsor and catering for up to 140 guests, the brasserie will offer sophisticated and friendly all-day dining. They will serve modern British classics from dawn until dusk, including breakfast, coffees, weekend brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and cocktails. theivywindsor.com

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

PLANT POWER

Three to mark National Vegetarian Week in May

TASTING JOURNEY HOBB S OF HENLEY

All aboard for a Gin Tasting Cruise with Hobbs of Henley on Friday 27 May, 6-9pm. Experts ‘The Gin to my Tonic’ will take you on a gin tasting experience whilst cruising along the River Thames. A tailored menu of five-courses including one of Hobbs of Henley’s very own Mr Hobbs gins will be introduced and presented with its backstory. hobbsofhenley.com

V E G I VO R E S

Next course CA ST L E H OT E L W I N D S O R

Sir Richard Sutton Limited group has announced the launch of Sutton Hotel Collection comprising three iconic British hotels: Castle Hotel Windsor, Queens Hotel Cheltenham and Francis Hotel Bath. Whilst the hotels are not changing ownership, this new chapter begins as the hotels transition from the MGallery Accor brand they have previously been a part of. Expect the same quality produce from Castle Hotel Windsor's restaurant, Leaf, and atmosphere at the on-site bar. castlehotelwindsor.com

Founded in Reading in July 2017 as a street food and catering business, after successfully building a following at local markets and events Vegivores went on to launch their first restaurant in Caversham in October 2019.

Their focus is on making nourishing but indulgent food and everything they make is 100% plant-based. wearevegivores.com

ADDING

SPICE WAGAMAMA

LILIGANICS This is a bespoke vegan catering company based in Beaconsfield that cooks plants only. They specialise in serving fresh, home-made and nutritious food. We love The Trio on the menu: three layers of Liliganics goodness, lentils at the bottom, black beans in the middle and squash on top. liliganics.com

wagamama's Chicken Katsu Curry has been given a summer makeover to produce a lighter, lower calorie meal, coming in at 578 kcal. The launch of the summer menu also sees the return of permanent menus with wagamama’s extensive vegan options now on the same menu. wagamama.com

Made in Britain G OAT O N T H E R O O F

With a focus on seasonal and sustainable British tapas, Goat on the Roof in Newbury is set to be one of the year’s most exciting openings. The brainchild of culinary and hospitality entrepreneur Patrick Vaughan-Fowler and head chef Sam May, this new dining concept celebrates the incredible fare from producers and farmers in the British Isles, featuring traditional seasonal ingredients. goatontheroof.co.uk

H AW K Y N S Hawkyns offers vibrancy, paying homage to Atul Kochhar’s love of traditional Indian cuisine and exploring innovative and modern British touches, and adding a gourmet excitement to the picturesque town of Old Amersham. Their vegan and vegetarian menus offer plenty of choice and, just as importantly, taste wonderful. hawkynsrestaurant.co.uk

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Marlow MOUTHFUL Pub in the Park, gastronomic getaways, retaining Michelin stars… There’s plenty on Tom Kerridge’s plate right now, but he wouldn’t have it any other way

By MARK KEBBLE

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FOOD & DRINK • INTERVIEW

GLAZED OMELETTE OF SMOKED HADDOCK AND PARMESAN

T

om Kerridge is apologising for calling me three minutes past our allotted time, which is frankly ridiculous when considering his daily schedule, a whirlwind of travelling, meetings and, of course, cooking. He’s just finished a lunch service at the Marlow favourite, The Hand and Flowers, and once we are done, he’s moving on to signing off new dishes for the spring style menu there, before heading out to fellow Marlow favourites The Coach and The Butcher’s Tap & Grill to see the lay of the land.

Given everything Kerridge has going on, I would not begrudge him giving me short, sharp answers to my questions – but what you see on TV is what you really get, an intelligent, friendly personality who

is only too happy to spend his valuable time chatting about what’s going on in his life. And there’s plenty to talk about.

First of all, there is the return of his festival creation, Pub in the Park, to Marlow in May. After a year away, the food/ music behemoth made a return last year, including a September event at Higginson Park. “That was amazing,” he beams.

“There were no restrictions, no issues, everybody having an amazing time. The energy and atmosphere was fantastic.”

For all of us who attended, it was certainly the perfect way to release some pent up frustrations at missing out on so much hospitality over the past couple of years. Kerridge and his team certainly did plenty to keep spirits up during these tough times. “We set up a charity and many of the team volunteered and worked on Meals from Marlow,” he says.

KERRIDGE WITH, FROM FAR LEFT, SARAH HAYWARD, TOM DE KEYSER AND JAMIE MAY

THE COACH

“That raised over £200,000 and made over a hundred thousand dishes, and it has just raised another £100,000 to keep it going for another 12 months.”

Despite us all coming out of restrictions, Kerridge knows there will be more difficulties to overcome in the future for hospitality. “I recognise we are in a more fortunate position than small independent places that have only been open for a couple of years,” he says. “The Hand and Flowers has been trading for 17 years, so that’s quite robust in terms of its business model. But we all see the news with rising bills, staff wages, staff shortages – it’s going to be a huge challenge not just for hospitality, but for things like agriculture, farming,

THE HAND AND FLOWERS

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THE LIKES OF SIMON RIMMER WILL JOIN KERRIDGE AT PUB IN THE PARK

“Pub in the Park feels like a national festival, but in smaller parks and places that don’t normally get that footfall”

fisheries, transportation, just anything to do with the movement of people and food.

It’s going to be a bumpy couple of years, but hospitality is incredibly resilient.”

Pub in the Park is certainly what fun summer days out are made for. The Higginson Park line-up, from 12-15 May, features music from the likes of The Feeling, Rag’n’Bone Man and Happy Mondays, and top chefs and restaurants from all over the UK including Michel Roux Jr, Simon Rimmer, Atul Kochhar and, of course, Kerridge himself. “It feels like a national festival, but in smaller parks and places that don’t normally bring that sort of footfall,” Kerridge says on why the festival has proved such a hit over the last six years.

Also launching in May, on Tuesdays to be precise, is Kerridge’s Gastronomic Getaway to Marlow. The break includes a stay and meal at The Hand and Flowers,

36

followed the next day with dinner at The Coach, with a £50 voucher thrown in to enjoy the grilled goodness at The Butcher’s Tap & Grill. It’s yet another innovative idea that often wings its way to my desk from the Tom Kerridge Group. “It’s lead by the team of people that surround me,” Kerridge says on the many ideas that they come up with. “There’s a wonderful family vibe [in the team] and they are constantly trying to ask questions and to drive things.”

Kerridge talks about how his head chefs have all been with the company for lengthy periods, such as Tom De Keyser, the current head chef at The Hand and Flowers, who has spent a decade working for Kerridge, and Sarah Hayward, head chef of The Coach, who has been a part of operations for nine years. There’s Jamie May, too, the former head chef of The Hand and Flowers, who is using his ten years plus of experience with the business to oversee The Butcher’s Tap & Grill. “That’s like Marlow’s hottest pub,” Kerridge says warmly about the recently revamped venue on Spittal Street.

Recently, it was announced that The Coach had retained its one Michelin star, and The Hand and Flowers its two Michelin stars, remaining the only pub in the UK with that accolade. “It’s a huge responsibility,” Kerridge says on having that above the door, “but one that we cherish.

Those accolades don’t come easily, we had to work very hard and it was an incredible team effort to get to that position. Once you have got there, you want to maintain it, but at the same time you have to keep creating, keep changing and keep adapting.”

It’s remarkable to think The Hand and Flowers is 17 and Kerridge has achieved a lot in Marlow alone in the years since.

“No,” he says simply when I ask if he would ever get bored of the area. “We are very settled here. The little man [his son, Acey] is happy at the local school, and [his artist wife] Beth has got a studio at home, so we are very lucky, settled and sorted.” It’s time, though, to let him crack on with his busy day. “It started at 4am in Copenhagen,” he says, which makes me feel guilty for taking up part of his schedule. “There is absolutely no structure to my work, the diary is always full, but I love it!”

Visit pubintheparkuk.com/marlow for tickets to the Higginson Park festival, and for more on Tom Kerridge’s restaurants, pubs and the Gastronomic Getaway, visit tomkerridge.com

MEATY GOODNESS FROM THE BUTCHER’S TAP & GRILL

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FOOD & DRINK • DRINKS

Tartar of John Dory,

leche de tigre and fresh herbs Serves 4

NOTE PERFECT Piper-Heidsieck Essentiel Cuvée Blanc de Blancs is great with seafood – so here's an accompanying dish for inspiration

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S

ince its founding in 1785, the House of PiperHeidsieck has proven its innovative prowess in selecting and blending wines of exception. As the quintessence of PiperHeidsieck champagnes expression, Piper-Heidsieck Essentiel Blanc de Blancs boasts a precise, fresh and mineral profile. The nose expresses fresh notes of yuzu and lime, lightly underlined by touches of white flowers, acacia, almonds and toasted bread with a mineral finish. A perfect wine profile to pair with seafood.

Chef Eric Geoffroy, from Piano des Chefs, has created a dish to complement the flavours and aromas of Piper-Heidsieck Essentiel Blanc de Blancs: Tartar of John Dory, leche de tigre and fresh herbs.

I NG R E DI E N T S - 320g of John Dory fillet cut into 5 mm pieces - 200ml of eggs - 200ml of coconut milk - 1/2 red onions - 1 clove of garlic - 1 stick of lemongrass - 3 limes - 2 tins of fresh coriander - Salt and chilli pepper

M E T HOD Leche de tigre 1 Quickly blend the coconut milk with the coriander, lemongrass, garlic and onion, a pinch of salt and a pinch of Espelette chilli in a blender.

2 Strain the mixture and add the juice of the three limes.

3 Set aside in a cool place.

Finishing and presentation 1 Season the tartar with olive oil and salt.

2 Place the fish in a soup plate.

3 Pour the leche around and some fresh herbs on top (coriander, oyster leaf and vene cress).

4 Add a dash of olive oil and a pinch of fleur de sel.

5 Enjoy without delay.

Visit piper-heidsieck.com to discover more

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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F E B H U C R T G S E E RS U G

“IF YOU LOVE BURGERS, THIS IS FOR YOU!” -TOM KERRIDGE

CLARE SMYTH • PAUL AINSWORTH • DANIEL CLIFFORD JASON ATHERTON • TOM KITCHIN LISA GOODWIN ALLEN • GLYNN PURNELL OPENING TIMES

MONDAY TO SATURDAY - 9AM UNTIL LATE SUNDAY - 12PM UNTIL LATE TOM KERRIDGE.indd 39

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FOOD & DRINK • DRINKS

“It is the highest quality gin produced, as all ingredients must be natural and added before distillation”

Knocked

CRICKETERS GIN'S BOTANICALS

FOR SIX Investigating an exquisite local gin inspired by the wonderful game of cricket and Berkshire countryside

C THE TYRRELLS WITH THEO PAPHITIS

ricketers Gin is an independent, family run gin company; set up by father and daughter founding partners, it is today operated by Rachel Tyrrell and her husband Simon.

The journey began on a relaxed Sunday afternoon, with a refreshing gin and tonic, watching cricket on Pinkneys Green.

Surrounded by the stunning Berkshire countryside, the Cricketers Gin founders decided that this quintessential British game, along with the wild botanicals growing in abundance, deserved a bespoke gin of its very own – so they decided to go off and create one.

Surrounded by beautiful woodland, Pinkneys Green in Berkshire is home to three of the local botanicals featuring in Cricketers Gin; wild marjoram, milk thistle and blackberries. These unique flavours harmonise with zesty orange, spicy coriander, and subtle tones of liquorice to deliver an exquisitely smooth juniper-forward gin.

Cricketers, a London Dry Gin, is the highest quality gin produced, as all ingredients must be natural and added before distillation. This is gin in its purest form and is distilled as it would have been hundreds of years ago.

Cricketers exquisite gin is very much a product of its surrounds, with wild botanicals and the village cricket club at the heart of its conception. Cricketers Gin have been awarded a Silver Medal for their London Dry Gin and a Bronze Medal for their Berry Blush Pink Gin in the 2021 International ‘London Spirits Competition’, and they were finalists in the 2020 global Gin Guide Awards. They were ecstatic to win the Theo Paphitis Small Business Award during lockdown, following the launch of their miniature gins, and are now very much looking forward to the summer events ahead. Follow Cricketers Gin on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with this family, artisan gin company.

Find out more at cricketersgin.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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at The Henley Royal Regatta (29th June – 3rd July 2022)

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FLAME.indd 42

2 /04/2022 1 :

FOOD & DRINK • Q&A

Q Your new book Feel Good Food

M O O D

FOOD Absolutely quizzes Joe Wicks about his new book that's set to make us feel good about ourselves

By EVE HERBERT

takes you in a new direction, what made you pivot to writing about food to feel good?

A There’s been a massive shift in my narrative over the last couple of years, especially through the pandemic and the links that have surfaced between mental health, the food we eat and the exercise we do. There’s always such a big emphasis on food for fat loss and getting lean by cutting things out, but actually I think the most important thing that draws people back to healthy food and home cooking is the feeling they get when they spend time in the kitchen, creating wonderful recipes with their family, and enjoying the food and the energy it gives you.

There’s a big conversation that needs to be had around just how much food impacts our mood – I think people often think adequate exercise and sleep is enough to feel fine, but if your diet consists of mainly heavily processed foods, then this isn’t going to give you energy and will instead bring you down.

Feel Good Food is about getting in the kitchen and enjoying the process of prepping food, understanding what you’re putting in your body and how this can benefit our energy levels, focus, attention and mood.

For me personally, when I eat junk food I notice I can be more snappy and irritable. Allowing myself treats every now and then is totally fine, but I’ll always come back to nourishing my body A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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SWEET POTATO NACHOS

PESTO CHICKEN BURGERS

with food that makes me feel good. It’s something I’m really passionate about – food, sleep and exercise are all very important to me, because without one of them, it’s very easy to feel off balance.

Q Why is it now more important

than ever to start eating food that makes you feel good?

A We’re in a time where it’s so easy to get fast food delivered to your door, or to grab a ready meal from a RICOTTA CHEESECAKE

“Food, sleep and exercise are all very important, without one it's very easy to feel off balance”

supermarket, but these meals have such highly processed ingredients that they aren’t going to give you energy, and an excess can hold you back from really feeling your best self. When you have great ingredients in your cupboard and access to recipes that you can bang out in 15/20 minutes, it’s going to set you up for a day of energy, leaving you feeling more focused, calm and tolerant.

I think this book contains a really important message for everyone going through a difficult time at the minute – there’s still a lot of anxiety and people feeling low, especially with COVID still lingering, so putting good food in your body means you’re giving yourself the best chance to take on the day feeling energised.

turn means less hassle in the kitchen as well as less dishes, which is great if you’re a fan of speed and simplicity like me.

Q What is your top tip for how to

boost your mood with food?

A The most important things for me

are consistency and getting organised.

Having ingredients you need in the house and prepping parts of your meal where possible in advance can really set you up for success. If you’re exercising and putting great food into your body, you will feel better, you’ll have more energy to exercise, which in turn means you’ll sleep better and you’ll start to see and feel the links between everything.

Q Have any significant life

experiences inspired the book?

A Yes, 100%. Becoming a parent and trying

to balance work (filming my workout videos) and life (trying to get the kids to bed and have enough sleep myself) has inspired me to think more about batch cooking and family style food – hence the pies, the curries and chillis – that last two or three days in the fridge too. For me, batch cooking means leftovers, which in

44

Feel Good Food by Joe Wicks, HQ, £20

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

JOE WICKS.indd 44

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UPGRADE YOUR HOME

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ASCOT RACECOURSE.indd 46 RA22_DNW_Fashion1_AbsolutelyBerkshire_210x297mm.indd 1

27/04/2022 22/03/2022 15:33 10:03

FA S H I O N

A N N I V E R SA RY PRESENT BERRY’S JEWELLERS

To mark Berry’s 125th anniversary, they are commemorating five generations of authentic British jewellery design with a special edition fine-jewellery collection – a celestial-inspired range of elegant diamond jewellery creations crafted from 18ct white gold and platinum. The special edition 125th Anniversary Collection will be available to view at Berry’s boutique in Windsor and on their website from mid-May. berrysjewellers.co.uk

The Shoot 48 • Jewellery 53 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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F i r s t p a s t

THE POST The 2022 Style Guide heralds a new creative direction for Royal Ascot, celebrating the very best in sartorial elegance and British occasion dressing A S C O T. C O M / S T Y L E G U I D E

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The Jewellery Workshop of Amersham

THE JEWELLERY WORKSHOP OF AMERSHAM has an extensive stock range to help you find a special piece of jewellery and will go that extra mile to ensure you get what you want.

Victor, the on-site goldsmith with over 30 years experience can repair treasured items or create a unique piece of jewellery.

Due to Covid, click and collect is available. Please see the website for details on how to “request an envelope” to post repair work in.

amershamworkshop@hotmail.co.uk | 01494 434178 | jewelleryworkshopamersham.co.uk AMERSHAM TJW.indd 1 JEWELLE.indd 52

27/04/2022 22/04/2021 15:34 15:11

FASHION • JEWELLERY

Nature’s Way Return to the earth with these natural gemstones B y R AC H E L H O G G

CARRIE ELIZABETH

FOOL’S GOLD

DINNY HALL

Moonstone Bracelet in Gold, £80 carrieelizabeth.co.uk

Moonstone & Diamond Set Statement Ring, £180 foolsgoldjewellery.co.uk

Gold Opal and Diamond Wristlet, £695 dinnyhall.com

HONOURA JEWELLERY

JIA JIA

MISSOMA

Vye Rose Quartz Gold Necklace, £125 honoura.co.uk

Gold Amethyst Necklace, £445 net-a-porter.com

Rhodochrosite Lena Charm Necklace, £125 missoma.com

ILAYA

SHAR OKE

MONICA VINADER

Aqua Veronica Drop Earrings, £142 wolfandbadger.com

Aquamarine & Hermiker Diamond Beaded Bracelet, £126 wolfandbadger.com

Gold & Aquamarine Siren Cluster Cocktail Ring, £180 monicavinader.com

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Elope, (Just you two).

Celebrate with your Friends and Family.

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Storrs Hall, Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria LA23 3LG Tel. 015394 47111 | Email. reception@storrshall.com | www.storrshall.com AA 2 Rosette Culinary Excellence | AA 4 Star Hotel

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27/04/2022 15:34

SPECI A L ISSUE

Complete PACKAGE

a b s o l u te l y - w e d d i n g s .c o . u k

HORWOOD HOUSE

For a stunning, unique venue in the county to host a special wedding, look no further than Horwood House. Inside this special we take a look at what they offer with their wedding packages from May– September 2023 (which start from £155 per person), and during January, February, March and November (from only £120 per person). horwoodhouse.co.uk

In this sect ion W E D D I N G W I S H L I S T 56 S T O R R S H A L L 61 H O R W O O D H O U S E 64 L I T T L E W H I T E B O O K 68

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10 THINGS WE

Absolutely

LOVE Here are ten things we absolutely love for the season to come

EMMA DODI CAKES

Since founding her business in 2016, Emma Dodi has designed unique cakes and macarons that are both luxurious and visually spectacular. Dodi's bespoke wedding cakes capture the personalities, characters and styles of her clients. emmadodicakes.com

PEPA & CO The new Celebration Collection by luxury childrenswear designer, Pepa & Co, has been designed for life’s most memorable moments. The line features a selection of timeless styles alongside a range of complementary accessories. pepaandcompany.com

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L EO C E COUTURE

The Nix wedding dress is a part of Leoce Couture’s luxury bridal collection, and is an elegant mermaid style gown, with a detailed lace bodice and a dreamy tulle skirt. £550 leocecouture.com

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WEDDINGS • 10 THINGS LITTLE M I ST R E S S

This grey one-shoulder dress from Little Mistress is an absolute stunner. The pencil skirt cuts a classic silhouette and the intricate organza trim adds a gorgeous feminine twist. £75 little-mistress.com

JOULBERRY

Joulberry jewellery is renowned for distinctive designs, timeless elegance, integrity and understated beauty. The Luna White Gold Eclipse necklace features a beautiful circular layered cluster pendant set with brilliant-cut diamonds. £1,350 joulberr y.com

MIRIAM FAITH The team at Miriam Faith Floral Design thrive on working closely with clients to create elegant, breathtaking bespoke floral arrangements that perfectly complement the atmosphere of their wedding. miriamfaith.com

K AT E S P A D E N E W YO R K

Whether you are a wedding guest or a blushing bride Kate Spade New York’s newly launched wedding shop has everything needed to take you from the bridal shower to down the aisle, including these beautifully pearlescent Rosa Sandals. £275 katespade.co.uk

D U N E LO N D O N

Sparkle your way through wedding season with the glittery Binita clutch bag. £65 dunelondon.com

MICHAEL P L AT T

Michael Platt is an independent jeweller and master goldsmith, whose expertise in jewellery making spans over 40 years. michaelplatt.co.uk

J O M A LO N E LO N D O N

The Silk Blossoms Cologne captures the scent of nature’s blooms at their most tempting. £76 jomalone.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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LEEZ PRIORY, ESSEX

WEDDED BLISS Here are six reasons why you should choose a Country House Weddings venue

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WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP

ST AUDRIES PARK IN SOMERSET

“You have exclusive use: it's your very own country house for the day”

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CLEARWELL CASTLE IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

ountry House Weddings offers six hand-picked wedding venues, chosen for their picturesque settings and opulent interiors, and designed solely with weddings in mind. From castles to country estates, a wedding-day dream can be created for all.

E XC L U S I V E LY W E D D I N G S

GOSFIELD HALL IN ESSEX

As the name suggests, Country House Weddings’ stunning venues and teams are exclusively dedicated to weddings – it’s all they do. Their venues are not hotels or corporate event centres, they have been handpicked and refurbished specifically as perfect wedding venues.

They offer exclusive use of the house and grounds, the venues are exclusively yours from midday to midnight– it’s your very own country house for the day.

AWA R D -W I N N I N G C U S TO M E R S E RV I C E They pride themselves on providing outstanding customer service to their couples, starting with their Personal Wedding Managers who are there to hold your hand from six months before your day, right through the day itself - they even sleep at the venue so that they are there in the morning to see you off.

Country House Weddings has no fewer than 25 industry accolades between their six venues from the industry’s two largest and most prestigious awards: the UK Wedding Awards and the British Wedding Awards.

VA S T E X P E R I E N C E

With six venues and over 30 years of experience holding weddings, you can entrust Country House Weddings with your special day. Since this family-run business was started in 1989, they’ve held over 15,000 weddings

in their venues. Their flagship venue, Leez Priory, was one of, if not the first Country House in the UK to get a licence to hold civil ceremonies – so they like to think they know a thing or two about running weddings.

C U L I N A RY M A S T E R C L A S S

Country House Weddings offer outstanding food and drink delivered by a dedicated in-house catering team. Their chefs are employed and trained to provide the perfect wedding banquet – it’s their primary focus. Their menus and recipes have been developed and refined to ensure that they are the perfect fit for wedding banquet service.

A M P L E O N - S I T E AC C O M M O DAT I O N

There is plenty of space to breathe, exclusively for you and your guests. Their venues can sleep between 40 and 100 guests within their onsite accommodation. Let us not forget about their honeymoon suites. Adorned with four-poster beds, luxurious features and fittings and a perfect large bath or hot tub to soak in at the end of the day, the honeymoon suites are designed to provide a night as memorable as your day.

YO U CA N K E E P T H E PA R T Y G O I N G

Because one day often isn’t enough, Country House Weddings have been developing their increasingly popular “Night Before” and “Day After” offerings. These food and accommodation packages are designed to keep the party going and are being rolled out across multiple venues, including Clearwell Castle, Gosfield Hall, St Audries Park and Leez Priory. You will be able to spend the night before and/or the day after your wedding relaxing with your nearest and dearest, while a dedicated waiting and bar team will ensure you have everything you need. info@countryhouseweddings.co.uk • countryhouseweddings.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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JUST I M AG I NE A stunning mansion house.

The beautiful backdrop. The people you love.

A perfect moment. A day to remember.

Weddings at Coworth Park.

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A S C OT + 44 (0)134 4 8 7 6 6 0 0 D O R C HES T ER C O L L E CT I ON .C OM #DCmoments CoworthPark CoworthParkUK CoworthPark

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WEDDINGS • VENUE

Set the SCENE Head to the Lake District for a wedding venue that has it all

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torrs Hall is a beautiful and unique destination – arguably one of the most spectacular in the Lake District, if not the whole of the UK. It's rarer than you'd think to find such a strikingly elegant building, with private and peaceful lake frontage in the Lake District. Built in 1797 for a Yorkshire gentleman as an alternative to holidaying in the Swiss lakes, he chose the best location on Lake Windermere.

The Grade II* listed building is wrapped in 17 acres of grounds, enjoying miles of views both north and south. His choice of location was equally appreciated by Tatler, who rated it one of the 101 Best Hotels in the World, 2022. The

Sunday Times listed it as one of the Top 80 British Hotels, 2021 – and it’s still working its magic.

With three grand period rooms licenced for your ceremony, and three outside spaces, you’re spoilt for choice – whether it’s just the two of you, or with all your friends and family taking exclusive use.

Newly licenced in 2022, the Boathouse Terrace is a unique ‘just for two’ venue, where the unusually large terrace with hot-tub, seating area, firepit and lily pond border the lake, with spectacular views north up Windermere to the central mountains. The luxuries of the Boathouse interiors match the location for your wedding night. Requiring a key code for its private grounds, and private parking, it really is something special and very exclusive.

The Garden Pavilion, wrought in lacy ornate ironwork, is romantically pretty, and with the lake behind is a photogenic location for your vows. It’s also a top spot for sunset proposals.

Newly licenced for ceremonies in 2022 is the South Lawn, between the hotel terraces and

the lakeshore, where woodland to either side ensures privacy.

It’s overlooked by the restaurant, conservatory, and drawing room.

Exclusive use maximum number of guests is 60-80, and you can speak to them about the possibility of a marquee on the south lawn.

Storrs has a very characterful bar – The Tower Bar, reclaimed from Blackpool Tower itself, a piece of high Victoriana in rich wood and stained glass, it adds another dimension to your celebrations.

Menus are devised totally to your tastes by their head chef and team.

Storrs Hall is easily accessible, being 30 minutes from junction 36 of the M6, two miles south of Bowness on Windermere – home to Windermere Lake Cruises, who will provide a private lake tour directly from their jetty, for the entertainment of your guests. They also have extensive private parking, and eight VendElectric EV charging points, and helicopter landing is available on the south lawn.

For wedding enquiries, email weddings@storrshall.com or call 015394 47111 / storrshall.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP

Greece

IS THE WORD Island Hop Your Way to Saying… I Do

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hether you’re looking to plan your very own Mamma Mia! style wedding, simply want to escape a deux or celebrate with a small number of friends and family, look no further than the Greek Islands, scattered like gems across two clear seas. Each with their own vibe, views, charm, cuisine, jaw dropping sunsets and beaches…

But where do you start trying to figure out where to go?

Well, top tip: don’t just limit yourself to one island. Island hopping is taking off and is by far the best way to combine a dream wedding and honeymoon in one fell swoop, and there really is something for everyone – big, small, budget or blow-out.

Numerous companies sell the Greek Island idyll, but very few are specialists in co-ordinating a wedding, honeymoon, island hop combo, but Olympic Holidays can provide just that. Whether it’s a religious, civil, symbolic or same-sex wedding, their dedicated team can coordinate the lot.

Take Santorini for example, with its Instagram-worthy archetypal properties built into the cliffs,

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instantly recognisable whitewashed facades, blue-domed churches and spectacular sunsets. It’s arguably one of the most romantic of all the Greek Islands and once the nuptials have taken place, is perfect to combine with an island hop over to Mykonos, Naxos or Paros.

There’s also Rhodes, with its rich classical heritage and 300 days of sunshine a year, just a short hop from more intimate island gems such as Karpathos, Halki, Symi and Kos. These smaller islands provide the perfect escape for newlywed couples to start their lives together.

If you dream of a barefoot wedding with sand between your toes, The Princess Andriana on Rhodes provides just that. Sunset weddings don’t come much better than at the Santorini Gem with magnificent views of the Santorini Caldera, a large volcanic crater off the island’s coast or the Amada Colossus on Rhodes, overlooking one of the finest beaches. For charming chapel weddings, there's Rhodes’ very own St Sophia, perched high on a hill or Aghia Fotini at the Pyrgos restaurant on Santorini. Or for a truly traditional affair, St Pauls Chapel or the Kalithea Spa in Rhodes with its beautiful gardens, mosaic and marble floors won’t disappoint.

THE LOWDOWN Olympic Holidays olympicholidays.com have an award-winning, dedicated wedding team to help you plan your big day.

RHODES & KOS A 14-night wedding and honeymoon Island Hop package starts from £8,216 per couple including the wedding and 7 nights on an AI basis at Princess Andriana Resort & Spa and 7 nights at Ikos Aria on an AI basis.

SANTORINI & MYKONOS A 15-night wedding and honeymoon Island Hop package starts from £8,910 per couple including the wedding at Santorini Gem, 8 nights at Cliff Side Suites on a B&B basis and 7 nights at the Myconian Ambassador Hotel & Thalassa Spa on a B&B basis.

Prices above include flights, luggage, all transfers.

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It’s Personal

The Post | Snelsmore House | Snelsmore Common | Newbury | Berkshire | RG14 3AL 01635 881800 | info@thepostbarn.co.uk | www.thepostbarn.co.uk Image top middle and middle left courtesy of Chris Giles Photography

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WEDDINGS • VENUE

Make a

VOW

Why Buckinghamshire country hotel Horwood House is the perfect place to say “I do”

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estled in the rural tranquillity of the Buckinghamshire countryside and built in 1911, the stunning Grade II listed Horwood House has over a century’s worth of memories and stories to tell, and is the perfect backdrop for a showstopping wedding day. Fresh from a one-year long £6 million restoration, the property offers sumptuous interiors, expansive manicured gardens and lily pond, a tree-lined approach and beautiful historical features.

Horwood House offers two ceremony locations to choose from.

The historic Manor Ceremony Room is brimming with grand features including high ceilings, an impressive stone fireplace, chandeliers, and beautiful lead light windows which adjoins to a timeless bar complete with quirky artwork. Or, for a picturesque al fresco ceremony, a white wedding pavilion is situated within the historical gardens, offering a truly romantic oasis to be enjoyed from April to September.

The ‘Classical Horwood Package’ includes everything you’ll need on your big day, with the option to add

unique and quirky ideas for a truly personal experience. To ensure no detail is overlooked, the dedicated weddings team is on hand to help plan your day to perfection. With two newly refurbished spaces, the neutral and spacious settings of the Eyre and Cook Suites can be decorated to any chosen style, seating up to 190 guests for a wedding breakfast, with a menu curated by executive chef William Dimartino. For a more intimate affair, the Manor House is an idyllic setting to host your entire day in the ethereal Ceremony Room, Lounge and Bar with terrace space just down the original stone steps.

After dancing the night away, enjoy a wonderful night’s stay in one of the hotel’s stunning bedrooms, or extend the celebrations with your immediate family and book all eight rooms in the Courtyard stables, including the private courtyard. The next morning, reflect on the day of celebrations with a hearty breakfast in the new, beautifully designed 1911 Restaurant, followed by a trip to the boutique H Spa to enjoy a swim and sauna, alongside a range of relaxing Caudalie treatments before you check out – also ideal for some pre big day pampering!

Looking for inspiration for your big day? Horwood House will be inviting couples to discover the hotel’s picture-perfect event spaces and gardens with a series of open evenings throughout the summer and an Open Day in October. More information will be available on the hotel website in due course.

“The property offers sumptuous interiors, manicured gardens and beautiful historic features”

H O R WO O D H O U S E Mursley Road, Little Horwood, MK17 0PH 01296 722100 weddings@horwoodhouse.co.uk horwoodhouse.co.uk

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MARC

DARCY

- AWARD WINNING BRITISH FORMALWEAR SHOP ONLINE AT WWW.MARCDARCY.CO.UK SALES@MARCDARCY.CO.UK | 0161 710 0000 | 271-291 BURY NEW RD, MANCHESTER, M7 2YN MARC DARCY.indd 66

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WEDDINGS • JEWELLERY

Bespoke BRIDAL What’s new in

wedding jewellery from Annoushka

JEWELLERY DESIGNER ANNOUSHKA DUCAS

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he celebrated London jewellery designer, Annoushka, is offering a range of exciting new products and bespoke services for brides, just in time for wedding season. The designer has been moving heavily into the love and commitment market over the last year and a half and is passionate about creating jewellery that will evolve as your relationship does.

Engagement rings have always been close to Annoushka's heart, her own having been the first piece of jewellery she ever designed.

Annoushka’s newest release includes ten new one-of-a-kind engagement rings, all designed using stones from the designer’s own personal collection. They feature tourmaline, andalusite, aquamarine and sapphire, all surrounded by baguette diamonds and fashioned after her own art deco-inspired engagement ring.

For those looking to design their own ring, from May Annoushka will be offering a fully personalised bespoke service to guide them through the process. Clients will be able to work alongside Annoushka and her design team to select from GIA certified diamonds

and traceable coloured gemstones and create a truly one of a kind engagement ring. For those clients who are celebrating a milestone moment or anniversary, Annoushka has also introduced an “upgrade service” inspired by the designer's own engagement ring transformation marking her 30th wedding anniversary. The new range of ring jackets is designed to be worn around engagement rings and is perfect for those looking to enhance their existing rings. So whether you are getting ready to walk down the aisle, or are just about to celebrate ten years together, Annoushka has something for every kind of bride.

A N N O U S H K A J E W E L L E RY Visit the team in-store at 41 Cadogan Gardens SW3, or call 020 7881 5828 annoushka.com

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L I TTLE W H I T E

The best of the local businesses to ensure your big day is extra special

B O O K

ATTICUS AND HOPE Atticus and Hope started business creating birthday and gifting balloons during lockdown. As the business has evolved they now offer full event styling, with a big part of their current business focussed on weddings. They have prop hire, light up letter/number hire, backdrops and continue to add to their portfolio; they’re always trying to create the wow factor.

Their diaries are getting booked up into 2023, so contact them now to discuss your special event. atticusandhope.com

THE NATURAL LAUNDRY The Natural Laundry, by Amersham Dry Cleaners, have installed the first environmentally friendly Eco-Smart Dry-Cleaning machine in South Bucks that is perfectly suited for processing all your finest and most delicate formal and casual dresswear. Using the power of water with some clever chemistry, they can clean all your clothes without any solvents, leaving them cleaner, greener, and fresher. They have also replaced power sources with carbon neutral suppliers. amershamdrycleaners.co.uk

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• thenaturallaundry.com

THE VANITY LOUNGE It’s time to get you ready for your big day. Tammy Pettet is the founder of The Vanity Lounge in Beaconsfield and has been a beauty therapist for 20 years.

She uses the most luxurious products and treatments on the market, such as Guinot, Medik8, Sienna X spray tan, Nouveau Lash Lift, Cnd, Margaret Dabbs London, Dermaplaning, and EPN Pen. Working one to one with you, she can tailor a bespoke wedding package to suit you and your party’s needs.

07521 033736 vanitylounge.net

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WEDDINGS • NEWS

PEBORYON Peboryon are one of the UK’s top wedding cake emporiums.

They have the pleasure of creating bespoke, personal and unique wedding cakes for their couples. Made in Cornwall, loved in London and beyond. They deliver across the UK and are the preferred suppliers to some

of the country’s top hotels and wedding venues. Their team have years of experience and they love taking their client’s wedding cake dreams, and making them reality.

Enquiry: @peboryon.com Instagram.com/peboryon 07534 617059 peboryon.com

INNA VORONOVA Inna Voronova’s 2022 wedding dresses offer a more relaxed and bohemian style that are perfect for Britishthemed weddings. There has been a lot of hype with this style of wedding dress because of the unique combination of different fabrics and patterns: while there may be a lot of lace detailing available, trendy wedding gown designs can still feel truly relaxed due to the less formal criss-cross fabric and natural feminine shape. Having said that, the range is very broad in its scope and depth – they believe they have something for all brides regardless of body shape or aspiration. inna-voronova.co.uk

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JASON CHARLES JEWELLERY

pecializing in bespoke engagement and wedding rings, at Jason Charles Jewellery they make sure that your rings are as unique as you are. During the design process there’s nothing they love more than working with their couples to incorporate personal touches into the rings, whether it's coordinates of where the proposal took place or the mountain range

where you fell in love hidden in the engraving, it’s all possible.

They can make wedding rings shaped to fit the engagement ring if required and because their workshop is on-site they only need the ring for a few hours.

If you would like something personal, just for you, then visit them in their Sunninghill shop or give them a call on 01344 874496 to make an appointment. jasoncharlesjewellery.co.uk

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This is our home; experience the best of Greece and Cyprus for your special day.

r u o y g n i t Crea r e t f a r e v e happily

Whilst you do the dreaming, we will take care of your wedding day wish-list in bringing your ideas and dreams to life! ●

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Wedding destinations include Cyprus, Rhodes, Zante, and Santorini Our wedding venues include quaint chapel settings, local town halls, beautifully manicured hotel gardens, by the beach or even out at sea Ceremony options we can assist in planning – civil (legal), symbolic, same sex, renewal of vows and religious Dedicated Wedding Co-ordinator in the UK and in resort Award-winning; voted the Best Large Holiday Company for Weddings and Honeymoons at the British Travel Awards consecutively in 2018, 2019 and 2020

For more information call 020 8492 6789 email weddings@olympicholidays.com or visit olympicholidays.com/weddings OLYMPIC Absolutely HOLIDAYS.indd London Weddings70 Advert_Final.indd 1

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WEDDINGS • THE DRESS

M

Dream

DRESSES

ay & Grace is a fashion-forward bridal boutique owned and run by former fashion designer Emilie Crease. Their team has carefully curated a selection of bold and beautiful gowns, hand-picked from five international designers all offering the bride something a little bit different. This season they are showcasing modern and sophisticated dresses designed for a bride with a young spirit who is looking to add a little fun to her wedding day style. This year cements the shift that has been emerging from fuller lace gowns to plain, cleaner styles, a trend that was further catapulted into our consciousness by the choices that Meghan Markle and Nicola Anne Peltz made on their wedding days.

Some brands that do this look so elegantly and are firm favourites at May & Grace are Canadian brand Mikaella and Londonbased designer Savin. Having unveiled a host of variations on the restrained on-trend look that’s one of their trademarks, the new 2022 collection does not disappoint.

The gowns available are a perfect balance between classic silhouettes and the latest bridal trends and start at £1,000 and go up to £4,500.

To really appreciate these stunning dresses, you need to see them up close, feel their fabrics against your skin and try them on. The best way to do so is by booking a visit to the intimate May & Grace boutique, the perfect relaxing haven for brides. During your bespoke bridal appointment, one of the expert bridal stylists will help you find the wedding dress of your dreams.

M AY & G R AC E info@mayandgrace.com 01428 288012 mayandgracebridal.com

Glorious gowns at May & Grace

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

B E E G LOW GUERLAIN The newest lip balm to join Guerlain’s lip care collection takes advantage of the restorative nourishing and healing properties of honey. Each lipstick has been infused with Eosin, an active ingredient that responds to the natural PH of the lips to produce a shade that is truly unique to you, £32. guerlain.com

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NOBLE

PROMISE

Amersham-based Katy Simpson looks back on a decade of success for her beauty brand, Noble & Isle

By MARK KEBBLE

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • Q&A

Q What inspired you to launch Noble Isle back in 2012?

A When I created Noble Isle, I had a passion to produce something truly British – a British company, making products in the British Isles, sourcing natural ingredients from celebrated local producers in the UK and using evocative perfume to take one back to a moment or a place. I wanted to promote and highlight what is happening in the country – amazing places, people, ingredients. The British ingredients are truly unique to Noble Isle.

KATY SIMPSON

Q Was it easy to get everything off the ground?

A Absolutely not – ten years on and it is still not easy. From day one you are up against problems and setbacks – that’s business! The secret is to know problems will always arise, know that there is a solution to everything, and never give up.

Q What was your brand’s USP from day one?

A Our unique selling point is that Noble Isle is a fine fragrance, bath & body brand, inspired by the rich, cultural heritage of the British Isles. The collection is natural, vegan friendly, cruelty-free and made in the UK using extracts from celebrated producers around the British Isles including Rhubarb from Yorkshire, Samphire from Ireland, Barley from Scotland, and Beetroot from Wales.

We are great believers in the power of fragrance to enhance mood, trigger memories and create a sense of place by using unique perfumes with distinctive top, heart and base notes that linger on the skin for hours after use.

Q How soon did you feel the business

was going to be a success?

A From day one. If I didn’t believe and feel it, then it would never happen. Believing is an attitude and even on the down days, you can never give up hope and belief. That is always my advice to people about starting a business: “Believe in yourself and your idea, never falter, and everything will happen.”

A LITTLE PET INSPIRATION

Q How has Noble Isle evolved over the last ten years?

A We have grown far and I am super proud of the work my team have done. Every year we improve and do things a little bit better.

We started with an idea and made it tangible – something to hold, smell, enjoy. We started with one or two customers and today we can boast about working with the best retailers, hotels and corporate partners across the UK. It has been an amazing journey and I am looking forward to the next ten years.

Q Today, what are your most popular products?

A Noble Isle was the first company within Bath & Body to create a rhubarb fragrance in 2011 and due to its unique, clean fragrance it jumped to our number one best seller and has remained there year after year.

We use real perfume in our products with top, heart and base notes to create the bittersweet fragrance, remindful of a Yorkshire spring morning and natural extracts of rhubarb from a sixth-generation forced-rhubarb farmer called Janet Oldroyd.

Q Earlier this year you were recognised

by Walpole as one of the 50 Most Influential People in British Luxury, and they also awarded you a Brand of Tomorrow Award back in 2016. What does that kind of recognition mean?

A I was humbled and completely delighted on both occasions. It is an honour to be named in the Walpole 2022 Power List and is such a big accolade for the business and the amazing team of people that work for Noble Isle. After ten years of building Noble Isle and steering the business through the challenging times of the pandemic and Brexit, this is

truly a defining moment in our journey. It gives me and my team great enthusiasm and recognition to continue to put all the effort in to building a great, strong British brand.

Q What’s coming next for Noble Isle?

A We have an exciting year ahead, celebrating

our ten-year anniversary. We have a calendar packed full of new launches. In May we re-launch our Tea Rose collection in new packaging and introduce our first Bath & Body Oil. In June we will launch Hand Sanitisers in new fragrances and September we will launch a new fragrance called The Greenhouse. The inspiration comes from the aroma of hot summer days in an English country walled garden and the fragrance of a greenhouse when you first open the door and all the wonderful green notes waft out of cucumber and tomato leaf.

Q I believe you live in Amersham.

How long have you lived there and what do you love about it?

A I have lived just outside of Amersham for the last eight years located on the Chiltern Hills and close to the Penn Estate. The countryside and forests are magnificent and truly inspiring. It is this landscape that inspires all of my creative ideas.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare B y R AC H E L H O G G

SMOOTH

FOCUS

SKIN SAVIOUR

operator S U GA R I N G BY A L I

The latest column from Cherrywood Clinic

There are numerous benefits to sugaring in comparison to waxing, as found at Sugaring by Ali in Reading.

The natural paste is made up of sugar, water and lemon which combines to make a 100% organic sugar paste.

As a result, there are no nasty added chemicals that could be harmful to your skin, hence a less painful method.

B y R AC H E L B R A I T H WA I T E

T

07824558558 /ali@sugaringbyali.co.uk

Bright Under Eyes SKIN PROUD

Straight-talking brand Skin Proud’s new Bright Eye Cream is just the thing to moisturise and protect the delicate skin under your eyes. The lightweight gel-cream formula is infused with a nourishing combination of pomegranate, vitamin C, shea butter and 2% niacinamide, £14.95. boots.com

I NDULG E YOU RS EL F CHANEL

Fans of the sensual scent of Coco Mademoiselle are going to love indulging in Chanel’s newest launch, the Velvet Body Oil. A clear, drytextured body oil, that perfumes the body with the distinctive fragrance, and leaves skin feeling silky soft and radiant, £60. chanel.com

EDITOR’S PICK

hread veins, red veins, spider veins: no matter what you call them, many of us suffer with broken, unwanted veins on our faces and legs. Whilst rarely harmful, and with varied causes, it’s encouraging to know that there’s no need to put up with them.

Traditionally, treatment for thread veins has meant either solutions that don’t fit with our lifestyles – such as wearing compression stockings – or invasive procedures such as sclerotherapy (injections directly into the problem vein). But there is an alternative! At The Cherrywood Clinic, we use our medical-grade aesthetics lasers to offer treatment that is effective, non-invasive, and allows you to immediately go about your day.

Thread vein removal is one of my favourite treatments to carry out. Our clients are often surprised by how quick and simple the treatment is. In some cases, the results are instantaneous, and they’re often dramatic.

As with all of the treatments offered by the Clinic, all clients are met for a one-on-one consultation. Following examination and test patching, a bespoke treatment plan is built for every client. The Clinic achieves full removal of unwanted veins with no damage to the surrounding skin, no injections, and no downtime.

CHERRYWOOD CLINIC Contact rachel@thecherrywoodclinic.co.uk or call 07491147944 for a free consultation

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOCUS

“Hydrafacials are the ultimate in skin health for life”

D i s c o v e r

B E A U T Y W I T H I N Step into CrownWood MediSpa in Bracknell for the latest skin treatments

S

ince opening their doors in December 2017, CrownWood MediSpa have grown their clinical team and treatment options extensively. Going from strength to strength, the clinic – situated in Crown Row, Crown Wood, Bracknell – has an extensive range of treatments to offer their clients. Two of the more recent additions to the range of treatments are HydraFacials and Soprano ICE Laser Hair Removal.

HydraFacials are the ultimate in skin health for life. It’s the only treatment that combines cleansing, exfoliation,

extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection simultaneously, for healthy, clear and revitalised skin. Regularly used by celebrities such as Kate Winslet and Beyonce, who like all actors and artists are always in the public eye, HydraFacials provide more youthful looking skin and make you feel great about your appearance.

But why choose a HydraFacial at CrownWood MediSpa? With their highly experienced HydraFacial therapists and competitive prices (with savings up to £310 for multi-sessions), women and men of all skin types are warmly welcomed for treatment that achieves instant, stunning and long-lasting results. With

the clinic boasting the highest five-star Google rating, clients can be confident that they’ll be well looked after.

Laser hair removal is proven to remove unsightly, unwanted hair for touchably smooth, hair-free skin. CrownWood MediSpa is proud to offer their patients the award-winning Soprano ICE laser hair removal treatment, and at a special discount up to the end of June. Considered the most complete and effective laser hair removal solution available today, it is suitable for all skin tones and hair types – and even tanned skin. Perfect for any area of the body, the highly experienced CrownWood team can ensure virtually painless hair removal and a safe experience.

To help clients prepare for summer and the holiday season, CrownWood MediSpa is launching a special 20% discount offer on their Soprano ICE laser hair removal treatment. Running from mid-May to the end of June, clients are invited to book their sessions in advance to avoid disappointment.

Also available in the CrownWood MediSpa are professional peels to refresh your skin for a healthy and radiant complexion, laser skin treatments to improve your skin safely with stunning results and a range of deluxe facials to revitalise your skin for a more youthful look. Also very popular are their wrinkle reduction treatments that help to turn back time and provide natural looking skin rejuvenation. CrownWood’s highly qualified dermatologist is on hand to improve problematic skin conditions, both safely and effectively.

C R OW N WO O D M E D I S PA To reserve a treatment or discuss your options, people are invited to call Lisa Bonello, the Patient Care Co-Ordinator, on 01344 300 417 or 07765 333 768 or email her at pc@crownwooddental. co.uk. There’s also plenty of information on all treatments at crownwoodmedispa.co.uk

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for the f inest British Alpaca socks

Are you looking for a less painful alternative to waxing?

Sugaring for hair removal could be your best discovery this year

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

FITNESS

TOP

PICKS

NOTES

LuLuLemon pieces designed with yoga in mind

By RACHEL HOGG

F O R M OV E M E N T The Align Tank is a fan favourite for a reason: the fit contours to your body and manages to be full coverage and incredibly flattering at the same time, £45.

AERIAL YOGA

DISCO YOGA

FOR COMFORT The Align High-Rise Pant is designed to minimise distractions and maximise comfort, and their next-to-nothing feel makes them a real closet staple, from £88.

FOR SUPPORT The Free to be Elevated Bra is just the thing for low-impact activities. The strappy open back allows for a full range of motion without sacrificing support, £38.

Available at lululemon.co.uk

YOGA WITH A TWIST Relax and unwind with these playful yoga classes DI S CO YO GA

W I LD LOTUS STUD I O

THE FIT NESS GA R DEN

 Forget stretching, before this class you’ll need to glitter up instead. Disco Yoga is a fun and light-hearted alternative to a traditional yoga class. You will shimmy your way through your sun salutations and swap out Savasana for a disco nap. It’s the perfect way to connect with friends and a free after-class cocktail is included in your ticket price, so you can keep the party going. discoyoga.uk

 You can take your practice to the skies at this Berkshire aerial fitness school. Their aerial yoga classes are just the thing for someone looking to add a vertical challenge to their standard stretches. It’s a great way to relieve pressure in the joints, increase your muscular flexibility, and allow your spine to decompress. You'll stretch yourself to the limit and might even leave the class feeling a bit taller. yogahub.co.uk

 The Fitness Garden was founded as a Community Interest Company in August 2019 when they opened their beautiful indoor garden facility in High Wycombe. Since then they have hosted some fantastic workshops to educate and engage local people in activities that they may not have otherwise had the opportunity to experience. Laughter Yoga, in particular, is something that will ensure you leave with a smile. thefitnessgarden.com

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Handmade in

Buckinghamshire with a 10 year guarantee

Comfort with Integrity

™

We work with farmers to source nature’s finest materials, handcrafting beautifully stylish beds and supremely comfortable mattresses that help enhance your sleep, health and well-being.

As pioneers of sustainable and ethical bed making, we believe sleep shouldn’t cost the Earth.

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INTERIORS

REST EASY DA N I E L O F W I N D S O R

Inspired by the town of Tetbury in the Cotswolds, this beautiful all-weather rattan range by Bramblecrest is one of the more classic and traditional styles with a contemporary twist. The eco-friendly Tetbury collection is recyclable and includes ‘soft touch’ season-proof eco seat cushions made from recycled plastic bottles. danielstores.co.uk

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INTERIORS N OT E S Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

GREEN SCENE EARTHBORN PAINTS

We're currently obsessed with green walls, and Earthborn's Faerie is just the ticket. This exciting clay-based breathable paint has a distinctive, ultra matt finish that softens and enhances the light in your room, while its contemporary colours tempt the senses. Green kitchens are trending right now, but we're also thinking green living rooms too. earthbornpaints.co.uk

SHAPE SHIFT NUDE GLASS

Crafted from smoke grey crystalline glass, the Inca vase presents a unique take on geometry. The classic cylindrical shape is given a delightful lift by the undulating surfaces which create an intriguing interplay of light and shadow. nudeglass.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E FIVE Vases VICTORIA GILLES FERNANDEZ CERAMICS Lento vase, £144 victoriaceramics.studio

NEW LO O KS

GLASS ART

FLORENCE BROADHURST

ROCKETT ST GEORGE

Rockett St George's selection of colourful and unusual glassware spans vases, candle holders and decorative objects. Display them together for an instant collection, or choose single pieces and find bright spots to show them off. rockettstgeorge.com

Fans of Australian textile designer Florence Broadhurst (1899-1977) have launched an imaginative and modern interpretation of her designs and revived the archive to produce a beautiful collection of wallpaper, fabrics, rugs, lampshades and accessories, all featuring bold, colourful prints. florencebroadhurst.co.uk

DARTINGTON CRYSTAL Little Treasures Amethyst Optic vase, £22 dartington.co.uk

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Small smoked brown vase, £22 rockettstgeorge.com

KATRIN MOYE Tulip vase, £685 theshopfloorproject.com

DRINK UP DURALEX

THE HAPPY BLOSSOMS Origami vase, £33 thehappyblossoms.com

Founded in France in 1945, Duralex has been manufacturing tempered glassware ever since.

These timeless designs have a nostalgic feel and are suitable for everything from coffee to ice cream, via wine, cocktails and water. There's a wide range of shapes, colours and sizes and they're virtually unbreakable and super affordable too. duralex.com

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CURATED COLLECTIONS FOR STYLISH GARDENS Instantly elevate your outdoor space with our premium collection of Ca’ Pietra statement stone & designer tiles Visit our boutique destination to peruse our striking selection & discuss your options with expert tile specialists

The Old Firestation, 67 High Street, Ascot SL5 7HP | 01344 620211

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

THE PANDEMIC FORCED LESSONS ONLINE

LESSON TO LEARN Digital learning – why the new every day in education means a high speed broadband is even more important

N

o! I can’t download the project I was doing in class; I need to finish and upload it to the school portal tonight or I’m going to fail!”

Sound familiar?

With many school assignments accessible only via school homework portals and online study and revision now a key part of student life, fast and reliable broadband is key to a stressfree home life with school aged children.

With kids logging online for school work, it is likely that you have more devices than usual connected to your home broadband, all at the same time. Internet speeds are more crucial than before to avoid homework

meltdowns. So how do you make sure that you help support a calmer household in the lead up to that crucial assignment deadline?

If you and the kids are struggling with uploading and downloading files, you first need to test your upload and download speeds. The faster the speed, the quicker files and data can be uploaded to your laptop or TV. The slower the speed, the worse the experience with video calls buffering or streaming for example. To do this, simply search online using the term ‘broadband speed test’ and you can test your upload and download speeds and check how this compares to standard broadband speeds.

For instance, a higher upload speed using Zoom or another video platform will ensure that others can hear and see you with clear

clarity, and a good upload time ensures you do not spend hours staring at the progress bar to upload a file, only to see it fail hours later. It is also required for sending emails, playing games with friends on an online tournament and of course uploading those all-important homework assignments.

Activities such as listening to music on Spotify, downloading large files or streaming videos on Netflix, reading articles and research, all require you to download data, so fast speeds are crucial for the videos and files required for that all important coursework.

For broadband services that are not Full Fibre, upload speeds will be much slower than download, however Full Fibre connections are unique. This is because the upload speeds mirror the download speed. This is where Swish Fibre comes in to help solve those common family broadband issues.

With Swish, you can say hello to household harmony with crystal clear video calls, hardcore gaming, and seamless smart-home living across multiple devices 24/7. They make every millisecond count by delivering an upload speed that matches the eye-watering download speed of your chosen package.

With split-second response rates, Swish always delivers when it matters most.

If you’d like to find out more about making the switch to Full Fibre or their packages, you can visit swishfibre.com to check if Swish is available at your postcode. Why not visit their Hub in Marlow to put the latest smart technology to the test and see the results of Full Fibre for yourself

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A DECLUTTERED ROOM WILL HELP YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

C l e a r

y o u r

MIND

Decluttering is a big thing in the 21st century, particularly with such emphasis on mental wellbeing – which is why the expertise of Vicky Silverthorn is in such demand

By MARK KEBBLE

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INTERIORS • PROFILE

S

ince launching her own business, You Need A Vicky, 12 years ago, Vicky Silverthorn has been involved in plenty of memorable projects.

“I flew to Saudi Arabia to organise for a few weeks for royalty,” she says about one. “I have organised in LA for some super celebrities, but I am always discreet regarding names obviously. I have even organised a wardrobe that was actually a house. The whole ‘spare’ house was my client’s wardrobe!”

That’s quite a walk-in wardrobe, but perfectly encapsulates how Silverthorn has become so in demand. Today, she’s a regular on our screens, advising us on all manner of things we can do to organise our lives better and make our homes a more calming

SHE WILL LOOK AT ALL AREAS OF YOUR HOME LIFE

VICKY SILVERTHORN

space – something that she learnt from an early age growing up Berkshire. “I had two big brothers and we were a family of five with various animals around too, so our home was honestly pretty chaotic,” she laughs about her time growing up in the grounds of Wellington College no less (her father worked there as a Clerk of Works). “I naturally found calm being organised and kept my bedroom tidy. It became my haven, for sure.”

When she grew up and moved away from the “magical playground” that was Wellington College, a career in organising began in PA work. “My career as a PA was very mixed,” she reflects with honesty. “I didn’t enjoy working in an office, and the same commute each day just didn’t suit me and I knew I needed more of a varied role.”

Step forward a pop star. “I ended up travelling around the world as Lily Allen’s PA for several years. This was definitely more me and although obviously very hard work and long hours, seeing the world was what I wanted and it’s exactly what I got.

I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity

“I look back and think how did I have the courage?” to travel all over the world and so much of the organisational work I did was hands on physical organisation. Over the years I found that when I’d touched on the physical organisation of my bosses’ spaces, it seemed to give them more obvious happiness than the admin I had spent years doing.

I clung onto this when I decided to start my business as professional organisers which, in 2010, wasn’t really much of a thing. I always look back and think: how on earth did I find the courage to do this?”

But she did, and with the blessing of her boss at the time – “Lily was really supportive and I’ll never forget that” – she got to work on sorting out others’ lives. “From day one, it was just me and I offered any organisation A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • PROFILE

“How you start your day can be totally different and relationships can be better” VICKY SILVERTHORN WILL GET YOUR LIFE IN ORDER

and decluttering services people wanted really,” she says. “I touched on the PA stuff slightly, but was desperate to get away from it. At the beginning you do whatever you possibly need to get by, but I knew it wasn’t for me anymore. Luckily things took off.”

Within four years, Silverthorn had a book to her name detailing how we can all live a less cluttered life. “It felt amazing,” she says on seeing Start With Your Sock Drawer published. “Even more so because I got to write with my cousin Emma [Cooling]. She can write, I can’t so much, and I know my subject, so between us it was a really lovely experience. I’ve definitely got another book in me.”

So where does she start when looking to declutter someone’s home? “This depends on what they are asking for,” Silverthorn says.

“Some clients know exactly what they’d like doing so we know where to target. Other clients aren’t sure where to start, so we begin with a full walk around the home. I always say to clients that this show round will be unlike any other they’ve done before.

This is when they show us the bits they don’t like and what doesn’t/isn’t working as opposed to showing off something new or nice to friends. We need to hear it all, learn a little about their life, there really is no one size fits all when it comes to organising.”

Silverthorn is pretty clear on a key mistake many make in their homes. “Mostly it’s the quantity of belongings we try to squeeze in,” she says. “How can we give ourselves a chance to be organised if the amount we are trying to organise is unrealistic? I believe most people have double the amount of belongings in their home that they actually need. Needing is very different to wanting.”

Demand for the expertise for companies like You Need A Vicky is seemingly going

90

through the roof along with stacks of clutter in many homes, and Silverthorn sees a whole host of benefits to having a tidy home.

“Clarity, the ability to think more clearly, productivity, reduced stress and cortisol levels, higher energy, a calmer outlook,” she lists. “How you start your day can be totally different and in turn so too can how your day continues. Relationships can be better and your social life can even be affected.”

And when Silverthorn looks back at some of her company highlights so far, it’s not all the glitz and glamour that stands out for her.

“I once organised for a lady whose daughter was murdered,” she says quietly. “She said her home needed therapy as well as her mind. This was one of the most special jobs I have done and we are friends and in touch to this day over five years later.” Everyone does indeed need a Vicky Silverthorn. youneedavicky.com

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Traditional shaker styles designed for modern living

Celebrating 40 years of affordable luxury, quality & style...

01494 677727

Call us now for a no obligation consultation www.kbstudios.co.uk 43-45 Mayflower Way, Beaconsfields, Bucks HP9 1UG KBS.indd 91

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INTERIORS • TREND

I N T H E S H A D E Colour – is it just a tool for decorating or does it really alter our mood?

B y G I L LY C R A F T

ANNIE SLOAN'S COLOURS WILL HELP BRIGHTEN A DESIGN SCHEME

“It is important to think how using your chosen colours can affect your mood.

Putting colour together is an art”

I

t is Mental Health Awareness Week from 9-15 May this year, so it seems appropriate to think about how colour can affect our mental health and wellbeing.

Let’s look at the science of colour. This is a very broad subject, but let’s start by breaking down the anatomy of colour. Hue is most commonly referred to when people discuss colour. Hue is the actual attribute of a colour, and allows the classification of a colour such as blue, red etc. Primary colours such as red can’t be created from any other colour.

Tone is greyscale, created using black or white. The amount of black or white used together determines the value of the grey, which is then added to a pure hue. Saturation is the intensity or purity of a colour. Visually brighter colours tend to be more saturated and are usually referred to as vibrant hues.

When considering which colour to use in the space, it is important to think about the demographic of the person living in the space. For example, red in western culture can mean stop, danger or anger, but also promotes appetite, so be careful where you use it. Dining rooms are perfect for a red scheme. Whereas in eastern culture, red is the colour of happiness and luck.

Orange means warmth and with the 70s revival is a very popular colour at the moment.

Orange enlivens and is great as an accent.

Pink is the colour of love and is a very popular colour for young and old girls’ bedrooms.

Yellow is the colour of joy, but can also be the colour of cowardice. Yellow works well in kitchens due to its sunny nature. Blue means peace, calm and is a good colour for a bedroom. In eastern culture, blue is the colour of wealth. Here’s an interesting fact – Japan painted their train station walls blue, reducing suicides in these public spaces by 75%.

AN ART DECO BATHROOM BY KOUBOU INTERIORS

Green is the colour of nature and health.

The colour has been proven to lower blood pressure/anxiety. A combination of blue and green would be a good choice for a bedroom, duck egg is also very popular and works very well in this space. In eastern culture, green is also the colour of eternity.

White is the colour of purity in western culture and is often used in wedding dresses, whilst in eastern culture, white is the colour of mourning. Black in western culture is the colour of mourning, but is a great colour to use as an accent in a scheme. An all black scheme can invoke the feeling of power.

If you are doing your own colour scheme, I would suggest investing in a colour wheel to help in your colour selection. There are various interior design schemes but these are the three most common: Analogous – these are colours next to each other on the colour wheel; Complimentary – colours that lie opposite to each other on the colour wheel; Monochromatic – schemes that start from a single hue, very basically, any variation of one colour.

Putting colour together is an art, but it is important to think how using your chosen colours can affect your mood. koubouinteriors.co.uk

GREEN CAN HAVE A CALMING EFFECT

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Set in the glorious surroundings of Windsor Racecourse, with a wide variety of Exhibitors, Catering, Licensed Bar and Live Music.

­

Welcome ...

...to Englefield Garden Centre

Opening hours - Monday to Saturday 9 - 5 Sunday 10 - 4 Tel 01189 930 4898 | englefieldgardencentre.co.uk Englefield Garden Centre, The Street, Englefield, Theale, Berks, RG7 5ES ENGLEFIELD_HP_ABS_BB_MAY22.indd 1

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INTERIORS • GARDENS

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S TAT E M E N T P I EC E HYPERION TILES

G A R D E N P A R T Y FABULOUS ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE

Transform your outdoor space with a unique statement underfoot featuring one of Hyperion Tiles’ striking patterned and plain Ca’ Pietra tiles collections. Avenue Rivoli tiles in porcelain, £42 per sq m hyperiontiles.co.uk

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G I M M E S H E LT E R DEN KIT CO

3

The Cottage Garden Den Kit was designed to capture creative imaginations, encourage resourcefulness and innovation, provide escape and sanctuary, and most of all supply hours and hours of simple fun. £45 thedenkitco.com

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RAIN PROOF CELI NA DIGBY

Celina Digby's outdoor bench seat pad is water resistant and practical.

These durable, practical removable covers are two-sided and come in a variety of prints. £69.99 celinadigby.co.uk

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4

I V Y L E AG U E DA N E T T I

4

The Ivy Corner Bench is a statement garden piece, creating a social hub for outdoor dining.

With a detailed rope back and practical matt finish, this bench is the perfect way to modernise any outdoor space. £1,679 danetti.com

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B E AC H V I B E CONR AN SHOP

5

The Conran Shop-exclusive Beach Hut Watering Can by Julie-Anne Pugh features a bold stripe inspired by traditional British beach huts with a contrasting handle and spout, all handpainted by Pugh. £85 conranshop.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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KITCHEN AND INTERIORS STUDIO IN BEACONSFIELD Your new Schmidt showroom has just opened. This is the ideal opportunity to breathe life into all your home interior projects, from kitchens to living rooms, bathrooms and wardrobes.

For more than 60 years, Schmidt’s solutions have been the beating heart of countless home interiors.

Visit our design studio in Beaconsfield, the latest addition to our worldwide network of over 1000 studios.

EXCLUSIVE MAY OFFER! PLACE AN ORDER BY MAY 31ST TO RECIEVE A FREE BLANCO HOT TAP. BOOK A CONSULTATION TODAY AND QUOTE “BLANCO22” T & CS APPLY.

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> www.homedesign.schmidt

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INTERIORS • TREND DAVID HUNT LIGHTING Scallop pendant, £POA davidhuntlighting.co.uk

ROSE & GREY Blue twister side table, £310 roseandgrey.co.uk

ORIGINAL BTC London table light, £615 originalbtc.com

CULT FURNITURE Century medium coffee table, £279 cultfurniture.com

EDITOR’S PICK

CIELSHOP Cane curved screen black, £475 cielshopinteriors.com

NEW WAVE

THE RUG RETAILER Orange retro rug, £71 therugretailer.co.uk

Curves and scalloping define the new look

By P E N D L E H A R T E

FIONA HOWARD Sway wallpaper, £69 fionahoward.com

POOKY Murphy table lamp, £110 pooky.com

ERCOL Heritage loveseat, £870 ercol.com

THE HOUSE OFFICE Kastan curved edge console table, £221 thehouseoffice.co.uk

SWEETPEA & WILLOW Evernest curved sofa, £4,465 sweetpeaandwillow.com

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Award winning Interior Architecture and Design

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Design with your needs in mind

Complete service from design to completion

how to find us Moss End Garden Village, Maidenhead Road, Warfield, Bracknell, RG42 6EJ call us 01344 779 323 website www.koubouinteriors.co.uk email info@koubouinteriors.co.uk

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Warming your home is our Passion

We provide a full service offer, from the site survey, consultancy, 3D modelling, installation and after sales care. Our experienced team listen to your requirements, provide knowledgeable advice and a complete interior design solution that bring dreams to life.

Our engineers are qualified to supply and fit any solid fuel and electric appliance from traditional free standing stoves to highly contemporary inset and free standing fires, offering a bespoke service to meet your requirements.

We have built our reputation on honesty and integrity, always offering clear advice to ensure you get the right solution for your home and lifestyle.

Whatever your project, call us or visit our showroom

Marlow Stoves 01628 290 142 info@marlowsstoves.co.uk marlowstoves.co.uk

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INTERIORS • TREND

MARIMEKKO Oivia buildings mug, £18.50 abodeliving .co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

MARTHA BROOK Gold Speckled White mug with spoon and lid, £15.95 marthabrook.com

BROSTE COPENHAGEN Nordic Vanilla mug, £8.99 silvermushroom.com

MARIMEKKO Karhuemo mug, £14.50 royaldesign.co.uk

A MUGS GAME

HK LIVING Cappuccino mugs set, £39 folkinteriors.co.uk

A handle on all the loveliest mugs

THE CONRAN SHOP

By P E N D L E H A R T E

Keijo Reactive mug, £16 conranshop.co.uk

FIVE AND DIME Ombre glazed mug, £10 fiveanddime-interiors.com

KELLING COLLECTION Marmalade mug, £26 kdloves.com

LOAF Muggins mug, £12 loaf.com

TWENTY BIRDS Wren mug, £16.50 twentybirds.co.uk

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INTERIORS • ART NADIA ATTURA, CACTUS BEACH

CLARE HALIFAX, REFLECTIONS AT KEW

MURUS AT WORK

HOME GALLERY The founders of online gallery Murus Art are on a mission to help people fill their homes with artwork

By R AC H E L H O G G

T

he idea for Murus’ online gallery was originally conceived during a conversation around the kitchen table. “One of our friends was saying she wanted to buy some art for her home, but she just didn’t know where to start or how to look for it,” says Erica Davis. It made her realise that building an art collection can be an intimidating process for many,

made more so by the often impersonal approach of many traditional galleries.

She and her friend Rose O’Shea saw a gap in the market for a place to buy original art that was easily accessible and more suited to the needs of modern living. The value at the core of their business is the fact that they see art as a personal experience, and for them “it’s about putting people and their homes at the centre” of the buying process. Having both come from fashion backgrounds, “part of our approach is about the

fact that we focus on what customers want and what customers need”.

The key to matching people with their perfect piece lay in making their website “really user-friendly, to help people find specifically what they are looking for”. Davis adds: “Being able to browse art online means you don’t need to be intimidated. You can get a feel for what you like, what styles you like and the more you look, the more you start to see what things evoke in you and what you get drawn to.”

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MURUS’ WORK IN SITU

MARCUS AITKEN, QUADIR

of their own homes. It provides a way for people to easily visualise the scale of the piece, how it might fit in with other works of art and how it could potentially exist within the clutter and the chaos of daily life. Davis hopes that this technology can “give confidence and make people feel really happy about their purchase”.

At murus.art there is something for every taste, from abstract and graphic to landscapes – also a wide budget, with pieces ranging from £450 to £6,000 plus.

The gallery offers an interest-free finance option via the Art Council’s Own Art scheme, so you can pay for your piece over ten months. Ultimately, the curated artworks here have been designed with one goal in mind – making it easier for us to bring more colour and individuality into our homes. murus.art

“IT’S PUTTING PEOPLE AND THEIR HOMES AT THE CENTRE” Available on murus.art is a carefully curated selection of original paintings and limitededition prints made by a talent pool of emerging and already established artists.

Each piece is also accompanied by a selection of lifestyle photography, showing how it looks inside the homes of other people because, as Davis says, “people’s homes aren’t white walls, so you need to understand how a piece of art is going to fit into your lifestyle”.

Knowing this is quite a hard thing to properly envision, and because “a lot of the time it’s hard to see what it’s going to look like on your wall”, Davis and O’Shea wanted to utilise technology to take some of the abstraction out of this process. The website is accompanied by an AR app that allows shoppers to transpose artworks onto the walls

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ERICA DAVIS AND ROSE O’SHEA

BRUCE MCLEAN, FRESH WHITE SPRING

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Department Store

Tetbury Nutmeg Mini Modular Sofa with Eco Cushions & Dual-Height Tree-Free Top Table and Two Stools

£1499

The ultimate in social dining for small gatherings The classic design of the Tetbury range features fawn linen seat cushions made from innovative Eco Fabric, spun from recycled plastic bottles. The soft-touch cushions retain the hard-wearing, season-proof quality that is synonymous with Bramblecrest outdoor fabrics. The all-weather, Nutmeg rattan is built on an aluminium frame, hence the furniture is lightweight, strong and rust-free.

Full collection available at Daniel of Windsor, shop in-store & online: www.danielstores.co.uk Tel: 01753 801000

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INTERIORS • PROPERTY

C L A S S I C C O L L E C T I O N Exceptional demand as Bewley launch their flagship Beaconsfield development

“The development offers buyers a unique opportunity to live in a truly landmark setting”

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he launch of Wilton Park in Beaconsfield has seen huge interest from potential buyers with the first release almost sold out. Demand was always expected to be high with the development offering buyers a unique opportunity to live in a truly landmark setting, featuring a wide range of superbly designed homes arranged to form impressive street scenes.

For over 30 years Bewley Homes has been creating stunning developments that have evolved naturally into exciting new communities and it’s a trend that’s set to continue at Wilton Park.

Created to reflect the splendour and elegance of grand 18th century Georgian designs, the collection of homes at Wilton Park has been designed to appeal to those who desire a new home that combines the grace, elegance and proportions of a classical design with a carefully curated specification designed for a contemporary lifestyle.

Located just a mile from Beaconsfield town centre means Wilton Park boasts a prime location close to a superb range of

amenities, restaurants, cafés and shops.

Importantly, the development also offers a host of new facilities on site including a nursery school, community hub, café, play areas, interconnected green spaces, integral cycleways and pedestrian links.

Inside the homes, a superb specification includes designer fitted kitchens with a choice of Kensington and Zola cabinetry and a range of AEG integrated appliances, Karndean flooring and Porcelanosa tiles.

You can visit the state-of-the-art marketing suite and two beautiful show homes by appointment, Monday to Sunday, 10am-5pm. The two, three and four bedroom homes are available from £715,000 to £1,200,000, and the one, two and three bedroom apartments from £425,000 to £695,000. Interested parties should also ask about the Bewley Bond – the VIP way to reserve a new home at Wilton Park, even if you have not sold your existing home.

Please contact sole selling agents Hamptons Beaconsfield for further information on 01494 677744 or email wiltonpark@hamptons.co.uk

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LIVE THE DREAM

An aspirational site finding service.

At Sited we source exceptional sites for clients requiring a bespoke service – facilitating the dream of developing their own home.

See it, Source it, Sited.

Sited Limited 78 St Johns Road Tunbridge Wells Kent TN4 9PH 07739 514350 01892 579937

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www.sited.land

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Bring kids together for summer fun!

Host a Play Date this July and raise money to help seriously ill children being treated at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Sign up now for your free Play Date pack:

gosh.org/playdate

*Any donation(s) received in relation to the GOSH Charity Play Date event(s) will be used to fund the Play Services at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust. Our target for this appeal is to raise £101,250. In the event that additional donations are received over and above our target and/or the needs of the hospital or patients change, we reserve the right to redirect funds for use against the hospital’s most urgent needs. Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. Registered charity no. 1160024.

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E D U C AT I O N

SONGS OF PRAISE ST G EO RG E ’ S W I N DS O R CAST L E

Two female Year 4 students from St George’s School Windsor Castle joined the world-famous choir of St George’s Chapel this term, making history in the process. The girls, Julia Johnson and Lucy Howe, will now live in the school’s boarding house during the week and participate in the choristers’ programme of daily rehearsals and in time regular services, alongside their normal schooling and co-curricular activities. And that historic moment? Read more on page 121.

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SIGN of

things to come The pandemic has, if anything, taught us that communication between humans is vital. But what about those who struggles continue beyond lockdowns?

By S U E L A I D L AW

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EDUCATION • FEATURE

I

f there is one thing that we have all realised over the past two years, it is the absolute need for all of us to find new ways of communication. In those early days of spring 2020, we had very little option but to embrace Zoom and certainly our home diary was scattered with invitations for “Virtual Meetings down the Pub!” and family get-togethers on screen.

At Laidlaw Education, we are constantly exploring ways to communicate with children in our teaching – not always just by speech and voice. However, it became very clear that, when face masks were required to be used, for many children and adults, communication became harder; facial cues were hidden as well as the ability to watch the articulation of a teacher, particularly for younger children and those with specific needs.

The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists also underlined how much harder it was for those with hearing loss to communicate as lip-reading was clearly impossible. Face masks with transparent panels over the mouth are now used.

We have all come to understand even more how important it is to explore new ways of communicating with each other. Against this backdrop, the annual Deaf Awareness Week, which takes place from 2-8 May, has caused me to reflect. This special week aims to promote an understanding of the importance of social inclusion around the deaf community.

“There are over ten million people in the UK with hearing loss” It highlights all the positive aspects of living with deafness, but also raises awareness of the isolation that deaf people can sometimes experience. Indeed, you may not be aware that there are over ten million people in the UK who are living with some form of hearing loss.

If your autumn Saturday evenings included snuggling up on the sofa to watch BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing, you, like me, will have shared the joy of watching EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis’ wonderful dancing and perfect rhythm, knowing that she was the first deaf contestant on the show.

She and her professional partner, Giovanni Pernice, won the show but have, more importantly, shone a very bright, creative and positive light on promoting the positivity of the deaf community.

Ayling-Ellis’ inspirational personality led to a significant increase in people wanting to learn Sign Language, for example.

Equally moving is this year’s Oscar winning movie, CODA. Coda stands for Child(ren) of Deaf Adults and the film tells the story of 17-year-old Ruby Rossi (Emilia Jones) as the only hearing member of a deaf family in Massachusetts. The film's exploration of the deaf community is real and authentic, even though the plot is fictious.

Alongside Emilia Jones, who spent many months learning to sign for the part, deaf actors Daniel Durant, Troy Kotsur, and Academy Award-winner Marlee Matlin star as the rest of Ruby's family. Troy Kotsur has made history as the first deaf man to win an Oscar as Best Supporting Actor.

So, as Deaf Awareness Week dawns, let’s be more aware of our means of communication. You may not want to learn Sign Language yet, but we can all be more aware of what we can do to embrace everyone in the way that we communicate.

Sue Laidlaw is founder of Laidlaw Education LLP, who offer educational advice, lessons and courses for children of all ages through their centres, including Laidlaw Hall supporting children with special needs, and the Laidlaw Virtual Academy. Call 020 8487 9517 or find out more at laidlaweducation.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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TOP SPRING M U ST READ

3+

From love and loss to a technology guide for budding inventors, a rediscovered Paddington and a history tour of great world cities, here's our pick of great spring reads

WE ARE FAMILY

by Lucy Reynolds Illustrated by Jenna Herman DOODLE S & SCRIBBLE S , £12 .99

T

he latest book from a recently arrived publishing house set up by two Oxford graduates, Lucy Reynolds and Jenna Herman, this hardback brings together their specialisms in poetry and fine art. We Are Family explores the diverse nature of families.

While very young children will be captivated by the lovely illustrations and poetic narrative with messages of inclusivity, older readers will be absorbed by the accompanying nature notes about how different animals live and raise their broods.

3+

Love is...

by Lily Murray Illustrated by Sarah Maycoc k BIG P IC TURE P RE SS , £14.9 9

This is a follow-on to Lily Murray's Sometimes I Feel... which was shortlisted for an ALCS Award. You will find the same lyrical prose style to engage very young readers, and with powerful messages about looking out for each other and the strength that love brings to our lives and relationships. This, plus mesmerising wildlife illustrations by Sarah Maycock, makes it a book to return to for comfort and reassurance.

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8+

A GATHERING STORM

Editor's pick

by Tamsin Mori UCLAN PUBLISHING, £7.99

Tamsin Mori's debut novel draws on childhood experiences of her mother's homeland Shetland, a place of myths and legends – and wild weather. This entrancing and fast-paced tale features an apprentice weather weaver and her mentee. It's the annual Gathering where weather magic and stories are traded by the weather weavers. But Tamar's welcome is going to be frosty because she's broken a cardinal rule that risks everything – including Stella's future and her magical relationship with her cloud Nimbus. This is the first of a trilogy of adventures that looks sure to attract many fans.

A HISTORY OF THE WORLD IN 25 CITIES

3+

FIVE LITTLE CHICKS

by Tracey Turner and Andrew Donkin Illustrations by Libby VanderPloeg

by Lily Murray Illustrated by Holly Surplice

NOSY CROW, IN COLLABORATION WITH THE BRITISH MUSEUM, £16.99

TEMPLAR BOOKS , £6.99

Just in time for spring, Five Little Chicks is a delightfully traditional readout-loud story with lots of interactive fun. Every page has flaps that lift up to reveal an array of cute animals with accompanying text. The main narrative, told in rhyme, encourages children to find and count the chicks that feature on every page. Holly Surplice's colourful illustrations add plenty of extra interest and a whole array of animals to identify.

5+

THE LAST SEAWEED PIE

by Wendy Shurety Illustrations by Paddy Donnelly STORYHOUSE PUBLISHING, £6.99

The Seaple and Treeple inhabit very different worlds. These collide when the Treeple's passion for making things in their jungle home and then throwing cast-offs into the ocean makes the world below uninhabitable. This vividly drawn and engaging tale for young readers contains lessons about working together, and with a section at the back giving advice on how to protect our oceans and planet. Every UK purchase supports the work of the Marine Conservation Society.

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8+

T

his is a book that will intrigue parents as much as children, bringing together the might of the British Museum and with heavyweight children's writers and illustrators. It combines maps (brilliantly created to capture a moment in history), descriptions of what life was like then and facts about the cities today. We love the range of places, from Jericho, Memphis, Baghdad and Benin City to London, Tokyo and Delhi. The final two entries cover cities of today and tomorrow.

Definitely a theme to spark questions and further investigation by young geographers and historians.

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Enjoy the journey Based in the heart of Windsor, Upton House is a thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School for boys and girls aged 2-11 years

With high academic standards, high calibre staff and excellent pastoral care, Upton House children blossom and have a zest for life, continually learning and developing their abilities, interests and talents within a caring and supportive environment.

Our children thrive in the modern world and we invite them to think outside the box.

Call 01753 862610 or email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk

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A happy, supportive educational environment Whole School Open Day Saturday 25 June 2022 Register at: www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk/admissions/open-days

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EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

Nature’s

CLASSROOM Lesley Thompson, Senior Nursery Manager & Safeguarding Lead at Jubilee Day Nursery in Padworth, on the benefits of outdoors learning

Q Before we talk about Jubilee Day Nursery, tell us a little about your role…

A It is a job you could never become bored with as every day is different, sometimes every hour! It can often be very diverse with a good measure of fun thrown in. For as long as I can remember I’ve been caring for children; there was no other vocation that matched it from the age of 14. My career has spanned experience as a private nanny, nursery nurse and as a manager at the renowned Norland College. I have led the team at Jubilee for over 15 years and it is a truly unique place. It is an absolute honour to care for the children who come through our doors and as a team we pride ourselves on creating magical memories and exceptional learning opportunities.

Q In a nutshell, what does Jubilee Day Nursery offer?

A We offer exciting nursery experiences and adventures for all babies and children in our care, with daily opportunities to explore, learn and be creative with our amazing practitioners in our beautiful woodlands, farm, sensory garden, and mud kitchens. Every day is a new learning experience for all ages both indoors and out, 51 weeks of the year.

Q Where are you based?

A We are located in Padworth, West

Berkshire (between Newbury, Reading and Basingstoke and minutes from the A4).

Q How key is the environment around you to what you offer?

A It is all about our environment at Jubilee, the amazing natural learning available for the children all year round linked to the seasons. For the children, being outdoors for most of them is the best place to be, with so many choices that our Practitioners offer the children every day.

Today, at the time of this interview, we will be: making mud pies carefully measuring out the ingredients to make cup cakes; building dens in the woods; feeding the goats; playing Superhero doctors in the Teddy hospital; listening to the wind blowing in the trees; hunting for bugs and building hotels for them; making shapes and pictures from things collected on a nature walk; following dinosaur tracks; and planting and growing fruit and vegetables.

Children whilst being outdoors have their interest and natural curiosity sparked, developing so many skills and understanding of the world around them,

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EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

JUBILEE DAY NURSERY MAKES FULL USE OF THE OUTDOORS

their emotional wellbeing, and essential life skills. As Maria Montessori said: “The best classroom is only roofed by the sky.”

Q What are your children prepared for

when they leave Jubilee Day Nursery?

A For children going to school is a huge

transition. At Jubilee we begin to help our children early on, from making independent choices about what they would like to play and do, self-selecting their own breakfast and snack, and finding their own coat and shoes.

When children reach Treetops, our pre-school, our team of Practitioners including our Early Years teacher continue

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“We help children make independent choices from an early age” to develop the children’s independence, knowledge and extending and building on the skills they have already gained.

We continuously work on self-help skills as we want them to be independent and confident in being able to care for their own needs once they are at school. Recognising their own name helps the children to identify their coat peg, with all our environments having different forms or writing all around, children begin to recognise letters and form words. To extend this skill the children begin to learn phonics playing rhyming games, going on sound walks and learning to listen – as they reach school age they have all the skills to begin to recognise words and read when they join school.

To develop muscle strength, we do regular finger gym to enable children to hold mark making tools, this and many other independent learning activities enable the

children to begin to form shapes letters.

In essence with these and so many activities, games and adventures planned every day by the Practitioners linked to the children’s own interests they have so many experiences ensuring all Jubilee children are school ready, independent young learners who are excited about learning and fully prepared for their next big adventure after Jubilee.

Q Is it a privilege to teach this age group?

A For me and the team, looking after all

children is always a privilege and being part of their most precious and important years is a job I will always love.

J U B I L E E DAY N U R S E RY Rectory Road, Padworth, RG7 4JD 0118 970 1600 • jubileedaynursery.co.uk

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Open Morning 6th May Book now:

Preparatory School for boys 3-13 years

sjb.admissions@sjb.email

EXPERIENCE

+ Outstanding academic results + Small class sizes & individual care + Large estate with superb facilities

Est. 1888

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A SCHOOL

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Senior School

OPEN EVENING Tuesday 24 May 2022 at 17:45

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EDUCATION • NEWS

EDU CATION NEWS The latest from schools across Berkshire and Buckinghamshire

Full of voice

STUCK IN THE MUD There is much excitement at St John’s Preparatory Beaumont School in Old Windsor as Little Muddy Boots, a local garden and nature club for toddlers and pre-schoolers, launches its third franchise at the school’s site. Little Muddy Boots Windsor is based at the Boarders’ Garden of St John’s Beaumont, which has undergone a wonderful transformation. The hour-long sessions will run weekly, on Wednesdays and Fridays, for children between the ages of 2 to 5 years alongside their parents, grandparents and carers.

During classes, the children will be learning through play, crafting, gardening and much more.

Families are invited to experience the school on 6 May at an Open Day. Go to SJBwindsor.uk/visit to book your visit. To join Little Muddy Boots toddler classes, visit littlemuddyboots.co.uk/Windsor

“During classes, the children will be learning through play and crafting”

Two female Year 4 students from St George’s School Windsor Castle, Julia Johnson and Lucy Howe, joined the world-famous choir of St George’s Chapel this term, marking the first time girl choristers have been admitted to the choir in its 674-year history. This follows the decision, announced by the Dean of Canons of Windsor in January, that girls and boys would sing alongside each other in St George’s Chapel Choir. stgeorges-windsor.org

Uncover a treasure Thorpe House School consider themselves one of Gerrard Cross’ hidden gems and would love for you to go and discover the riches that are on offer. Thorpe recognise that every child is different, but that is the wonderful privilege that education affords – helping every young person to discover their talents and to fulfil their potential. They are aspirational for their boys and look to give them the very best platform for success in the future.

Book your place for their Open Day on 10 May at thorpehouse.co.uk

G LO B A L E D U CAT I O N Downe House is a hugely successful school in Thatcham and their expertise is spreading. The Downe House Global Academy is set to continue and expand its online super-curricular courses offered in the Greater China area with the formalising of their partnership agreement with the EliteK12 Education Group. With the agreement in place, DH Global Academy two-year diplomas and individual 10-week supercurricular courses will continue to be delivered.

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ART FAIR 20-22 MAY 2022

Fri: 1pm-8pm Sat & Sun: 10am-4pm www.landmarkartscentre.org

Ferry Road, Teddington, TW11 9NN Admission: £5, Concessions £4, U16s & LAC Members FREE 020 8977 7558 landmarkarts landmarkartfairs landmarkspringandautumnartfairs Image: Marianna Bettini

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