Absolutely Cheshire May 2026

CHESHIRE

Cheshire MAY 2026 / £3.95

SPECIA L Inspiration and ideas for your big day

MAY 2026

Pretty in

PINK TURN HEADS THIS MONTH WITH THE LATEST FEELGOOD COLLECTION FROM BODEN

ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES.COM COVER WITH SPINE.indd All Pages

PLUS ELISSA CORRIGAN The Liverpool local revolutionising the beauty industry WALLS CAN TALK Kunal Trehan on how best to use art in the home FOOD WITH A FLOURISH The Ivy Collection heads to Chester

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents M AY 2 0 2 6

46 62

38 CULTURE

FASHION & BEAUTY

INTERIORS

14 Agenda Expect big names in music,

46 The Shoot The latest from Boden

from Midge Ure to Keifer Sutherland

will put a smile on your face

80 Art In The Home Top tips from Cheshire's Kunal Trehan

16 Elissa Corrigan How the Liverpool

53 John Pass Jewellers Exploring

84 Biophilia How it has

local is changing the wellness industry

the history of the family business

changed interior design

20 Elysia Gilman The artist bringing

WEDDINGS SPECIAL

a dose of reality to her work

FOOD & DRINK

56 Absolutely Loves A wedding

36 Food News New launches to whet the appetite

60 Whitfield & Ward The Wilmslow business ensuring grooms look the part

38 Liverpool Dining Why the city is

62 Venues Ten of the best places

becoming a culinary heavyweight

in Cheshire to say "I do"

wishlist for the bride and groom

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89 Florals Must buys for a dose of spring sensations

91 Products How to make others green with envy

O N T H E C OV E R Boden SS26 (boden.com)

editor MARK KEBBLE • art director PAWEL KUBA • magazine designers MARIANA SUZUKI, PAMELLA MORENO • production manager DANICA BRODIE • senior media consultant north region MARTIN CUNNINGHAM • credit control manager ALEXANDRA HVID • directors CRAIG DAVIES, JAMES FUSCHILLO • non-executive director ALEXANDRA HUNTER • managing director SHERIF SHALTOUT 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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LET OTHERS FOLLOW

Aston Martin Manchester Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 5BQ 01625548802 stratstone.com/dealers/aston-martin-manchester/

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ABSOLUTELY • THIS!MONTH

ASHLEY!RUDD

Cheshire CHATTER Ashley Rudd walks us down the aisle ahead of our weddings special

M

ay just hits different.

Everything feels a bit softer, a bit lighter, and suddenly your calendar is full in the best way. This year, it’s been all about weddings, longer evenings, and actually making the most of everything going on instead of saying “I’m tired” and staying in.

I was a bridesmaid this month for the loveliest spring wedding, and it was one of those weekends you wish you could bottle.

From the early morning buzz of getting ready to the last dance at the after-party, the entire celebration was just pure joy.

The reception at the White Horse at Chester Races was absolutely magical… fairy lights twinkling overhead, flowers

IT'S!THE!PERFECT!TIME!FOR!NUPTIALS!ACROSS!CHESHIRE

spilling from every table, friends and family letting loose on the dance floor.

There was a moment during the speeches when everyone was laughing so hard, champagne in hand, and it felt like time slowed down just enough for you to really soak it all in. There’s something about weddings that makes you properly switch off and just be in it, slightly emotional, slightly chaotic, but completely brilliant. We have more weddings later in this issue.

Beauty-wise, May has naturally called for that soft, glowing, “lit-from-within” look. I headed to H Beauty for a little refresh, and we’ve been taking full advantage of those long spring evenings, popping into town and visiting Chapters on the Rows for the latest book release and a crisp glass of rosé.

Ultimately, May has been a reminder that

CHESTER!RACECOURSE!IS!A!GREAT!LOCATION FOR!A!WEDDING!RECEPTION

not every reset has to be quiet; sometimes it looks like celebrating with your friends, leaning into special moments, and just being present. Spring in Cheshire, weddings, coffee stops, evening drinks… it’s all felt like the perfect little bubble of joy.

This month I will be...

Reading The Housemaid's Secret. I’m so late to the hype! I did catch The Housemaid in cinemas, but I’ve been catching up on The Housemaid series. I know they’re producing more, and I want to get ahead this time.

I am loving that our office is in Hoole and making sure all our meetings are scheduled at Little Yellow Pig or Okells.

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

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MOT H E R E A RT H This Mythical Garden collared buttonup with long gathered sleeves and a cropped, curved hem from Mother Denim features colorful flowers on the front and a forest scene on the back. motherdenim.com

EDITOR’S PICK

G A R D E N PA R T Y Derek Rose's new prints for summer include the London Garden, a mix of hand-drawn florals and hidden cats that represents an urban garden in bloom. These pyjamas are soft and airy in lightweight cotton. derek-rose.com

F LOW E R G I R L Agnes B's French chic dates back to 1973 and alongside a recurring collection of stripes and monochrome classics, SS26 brings a fresh look at florals too. agnesb.com

IN BLOOM Faux blooms are easy and beautiful – and the collection at Fake It includes houseplants and even trees too. Can you even tell they're not real? fakeitflowers.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

FLORAL R E V I VA L This floral pattern was adapted from an 1899 furnishing fabric by Steiner & Co. Lancashire, and now adorns a pouch at the V&A shop. vam.ac.uk

DIAMOND DESIGN Experience the exquisite allure of this remarkable diamond pendant design, where striking emerald and diamond shapes elegantly blend within the lustrous embrace of 18ct white gold settings. berrysjewellers.co.uk

FRESH AS A DA I SY The Georg Jensen Daisy collection captures the innocence and beauty of the flower itself. Easy and wearable, the enamel petals create a lifelike appearance that brings a fresh and carefree attitude to each piece. berrysjewellers.co.uk

P E TA L P O W E R C. Atherley's new Geranium No. 4 is hand-blended with pure Rose Absolute, revealing notes of Cedarwood, Rosemary, Corn Mint and Spikenard.And for the first time, there's a face oil too. c-atherley.com

IN THE SHADE The Adidas Originals eyewear collection marks an intersection of sport and street style seen through the lens of culture. £129 specsavers.co.uk

BLOCK PRINT

RED ROSE

With its vintage vibe and screen -printed floral detail, Pink City Prints' Ava dress is an enduring favourite. Versatile and effortless, it's just as stylish with sandals for a picnic, or with heels for a party. pinkcityprints.com

Loeffler Randall’s sandals evoke a flower in bloom. Slender grosgrain straps curve into a vine-like silhouette, crowned with a sculptural grosgrain blossom and finished with subtle leather trims. net-a-porter.com

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Starts here...

Multi-award-winning Crow Wood Hotel has become the wedding venue of choice for style-conscious couples. With a breathtaking panorama, it has all the grandeur of a bygone era in an ultra-modern setting.

Arrange your visit to our multi-award-winning venue

crowwoodhotel.com

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17 MAY, CHESTER STORYHOUSE

For over five decades, actor, writer and comedian Lenny Henry has been telling stories – on stage, on screen and through a host of characters etched into our collective memory.

In his first UK tour since his critically acclaimed Cradle to Rave in 2010, Still At Large will see Lenny return to the experiences that shaped him while also exploring the ideas, challenges, and creative sparks driving him today. storyhouse.com

PHOTO: JAKE TURNEY

C U LT U R E

Lenny Henry

Agenda 14 • Elissa Corrigan 16 • Art: Elysia Gilman 20 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: NATHAN ROACH

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

MU S I C

Midge Ure 9 May LIVERPOOL PHILHARMONIC HALL Acclaimed musician, producer and songwriter Midge Ure is set to embark on his visionary A Man Of Two Worlds Tour. Anticipation has continued to build around what promises to be one of the most distinctive shows of his career. Midge has conceived A Man Of Two Worlds as a seamless and immersive concert experience, blending classic tracks and fan favourites with cinematic instrumental pieces to create a continuous musical narrative. liverpoolphil.com

EV E N T

Discos for Grown Ups 2 MAY, C HE STE R CATHEDRAL

The legendary Discos for Grown Ups party is heading to a bigger venue this year, the stunning Chester Cathedral. Get glittered up for a fun, fab and feelgood night of dancing with people your own age to the best ever 70s, 80s and 90s classics to boogie to. Expect stage dancers, mirror balls, glitter, glamour and the best ever dance floor classics. chestercathedral.com

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MU S I C

Keifer Sutherland 18 May NEW CENTURY HALL Internationally acclaimed actor and musician Kiefer Sutherland returns to the stage with the Love Will Bring You Home Tour. The tour will support the forthcoming release of his fourth studio album, Grey, expected this spring.

While a confirmed release date is yet to be announced, fans can anticipate hearing new material alongside favourites from across his catalogue. newcenturymcr.com

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CULTURE • DIARY

M A P P I N G

THE PAST AU/RA 9 May MANCHESTER ACADEMY AU/RA will head out on a UK headline tour this May. Ibiza-born to German parents and raised in Antigua, songwriter Au/Ra has created a unique and powerfully emotive world, filled with songs that explore the dark nature of humanity with real and relatable storytelling. Her music captures the complexities of Gen-Z life in an internet-core era, where reality and illusion constantly overlap. manchesteracademy.net

MU SIC

THE PUPPINI SISTERS

This Month’s Must See

8 MAY HALLÉ ST PETER'S For two decades, The Puppini Sisters have brought vintage glamour and vocal fireworks to audiences around the world with fabulous frocks, festival stage appearances, platinum records and attracting famous fans from Cyndi Lauper to Robbie Williams – and even King Charles.

They celebrate turning 20 with a new album and a tour. halle.co.uk

ANGELA GOULD U NTI L 3 1 MAY, WARRIN GTON MUSEUM AN D ART GALLERY

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recreation of the Cornish coast, painstakingly stitched entirely from memory over five years, is now on display at Warrington Museum after being recognised by the Royal Academy of Arts. From the Sea View is the creation of mathematician-turnedartist Angela Gould, and was based on some of her happiest childhood holidays. wmag.culturewarrington.org

A piece of history has gone on show at Tatton Park

PHOTO: CHRIS FOSTER

MU S I C

V

isitors to Tatton Park will have the rare opportunity to see, on display for the first time, an extraordinarily important map of Venice. Featured within an exhibition that follows 18-year-old Samuel Egerton’s journey from rural Cheshire to the vibrant heart of Venice’s art world, the 1729 map by Ludovico Ughi, the Iconografica Rappresentione della Incita di Venezia, stands as a technical marvel of its time.

First published by Giuseppe Baroni, the map was printed on 12 plates surrounded by exquisitely detailed vignettes depicting 16 key Venetian buildings – believed to be the work of Francesco Zucchi and inspired by Luca Carlevarijs’ celebrated Fabriche e Vedute di Venezia (1703), the definitive Venetian views of the period.

Originally intended to be cut from its folio and assembled into an impressive 5 by 6 foot display, the Tatton copy is an extraordinary survivor: completely uncut, and preserved in its original folio, a remarkable treasure of 18th century cartographic artistry. As the first topographical map of the city, Ughi’s creation is remarkably accurate for its time, standing as both a scientific achievement and a work of art.

Carolyn Latham, Mansion and Collections Manager, says: “Visitors will be able to see both the original folio and the digitally assembled map in all its impressive detail, together with an engaging interactive Storymap that invites them to explore the map, draw comparisons with the modern city and connect with the past in entirely new ways.”

Beyond the View: Canaletto runs at Tatton Park until 1st November.

See more at tattonpark.org.uk

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T h e C o n f i d e n c e C O N V E R S A T I O N

ELISSA CORRIGAN

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

LIVERPOOL IS HOME

From journalist to founder, Liverpool’s Elissa Corrigan is quietly reshaping the wellness space for midlife women – building a brand rooted in honesty, science and community

By MARK KEBBLE

T

here’s a clarity to Elissa Corrigan that feels increasingly rare in the wellness world.

In an industry often dominated by noise – new launches, lofty claims and perfectly filtered youth – she speaks with a kind of measured certainty, grounded not in trends but in lived experience. It’s perhaps no surprise. Before founding Elle Sera, Elissa was a journalist, trained to ask questions, interrogate narratives and look beneath the surface. Those instincts remain at the core of everything she does.

Elle Sera, launched in 2020, wasn’t born out of a single lightning-bolt moment so much as a slow accumulation of insight.

Years earlier, Elissa had been running health retreats, spending extended time with women navigating their 30s, 40s and 50s. On paper, many arrived with familiar goals – weight loss, fitness, toning up. But as conversations deepened, a different picture emerged. Hormonal shifts, loss of libido, a creeping sense of invisibility.

The language of traditional wellness, she realised, wasn’t quite capturing what these women were actually experiencing.

“One message in particular stayed with me,” she recalls, describing a retreat guest who later reached out asking what she could take to help with libido. It was a simple question, but it opened a door.

Elissa began researching – speaking to herbalists, reading clinical studies, digging into ingredients and efficacy with the same rigour she had once applied to interviews and features. The idea began to take shape slowly, almost subconsciously, until a four-hour drive to Kent in 2019 crystallised everything. “The product, the positioning, even the marketing angles – it all just clicked,” she says.

That instinctive moment of clarity would become the foundation for Elle Sera’s first product, The Golden Pill.

But more than that, it defined the philosophy of the brand itself: fewer products, carefully considered, rooted in science rather than marketing spin.

If the idea had been quietly forming for years, the timing of its launch was anything but conventional. Elissa introduced Elle Sera in 2020, just as the world was shutting down. Yet, in contrast to the narrative of pandemic struggle, she describes the period as unexpectedly enabling. With in-person retreats halted overnight, she

pivoted quickly to e-commerce, allowing her to continue supporting the same women, albeit remotely. At the same time, lockdown created space – for her and for her audience. People were at home, more reflective, more engaged online. In many ways, the conditions were ideal for a brand built on conversation and connection.

That sense of connection has remained central. Before launching, Elissa spent 45 hours on the phone with 45 women, listening closely to their experiences, frustrations and needs. It’s a level of research that feels almost old-fashioned in its thoroughness, but it has paid dividends.

Even now, she maintains a direct line to her customers, often knowing them by name, sometimes quite literally having their numbers saved in her phone. It’s not a performative idea of community; it’s something far more tangible.

Living in Liverpool certainly helps with this. “Liverpool has definitely shaped how I build and communicate the brand. It’s such a friendly, open city.

People talk to each other here. They’re supportive, they’re chatty, and there’s a real sense of community. You can come to one of our events on your own and very quickly end up making friends with the A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

people around you. That spirit makes a huge difference when you’re building something that relies on connection. It creates a really welcoming atmosphere.”

Part of what those early conversations revealed was a disconnect at the heart of the wellness and beauty industries. Despite the fact that a significant proportion of consumers are women over 40, the imagery and messaging remain stubbornly youthfocused. Elissa finds this both puzzling and frustrating. “There’s this strange mismatch,” she says. “The products are being bought by midlife women, but the narrative still centres on women in their 20s.”

Elle Sera sets out to challenge that imbalance, not through overt statements, but through a subtle repositioning of what aspirational looks like. Drawing inspiration from French culture – with its more nuanced, less youth-obsessed view of ageing – the brand celebrates maturity, confidence and sensuality. It’s about visibility, Elissa explains, about ensuring women continue to feel seen as they

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evolve, rather than encouraged to chase an impossible version of their younger selves.

If that philosophy shapes the brand’s outward identity, its internal workings are defined by an equally strong commitment to substance. Elissa is candid about the shortcomings she sees within the supplement industry, particularly around underdosing – the practice of including ingredients in quantities too small to have any meaningful effect, simply to support a marketing claim. It’s a commercial strategy she understands, but one she refuses to adopt.

Equally important is bioavailability – the body’s ability to actually absorb and use the ingredients in a supplement.

“It’s not just about what’s in the formula,” she says. “It’s whether your body can do anything with it.”

Her disdain for gimmicks extends to formats too. Gummies, despite their popularity, come in for particular criticism. “They’re basically Haribos with margins,” she says, bluntly. It’s a line

that encapsulates her broader approach: cut through the noise, strip things back, focus on what genuinely works.

That clarity also informs Elle Sera’s deliberately restrained product range. In a market that thrives on constant newness, Elissa resists the pressure to launch for visibility alone. Each product begins with a simple question: is this something she would genuinely want to take herself? If the answer is yes, the process begins – sourcing the best experts, working with manufacturers, refining formulations until they meet her standards.

Beyond her products, Elissa’s voice has found another outlet through her podcast, where she speaks to other female founders and interesting women about business, health and ambition. It’s an extension of the same ethos: honest conversations, shared experiences, a willingness to explore the realities behind the highlight reel. She is also notably vocal about collaboration over competition, positioning Elle Sera not as a solitary success story, but as part of a broader ecosystem of women supporting one another.

That spirit is reflected in the way she defines success. There is, she admits, a practical dimension. “There are two sides to success in my mind,” she says.

“The first one is financial security. I never thought I’d necessarily have that, so being in a position where I know I can look after myself and my daughter if anything were to happen is really important to me. Not having that heart-attack moment when you’re standing at the till wondering if your card is going to be declined. And knowing I don’t have to rely on a man to be financially secure, that matters to me.”

The messages, too, she receives from customers are what stay with her. Women sharing that they’ve conceived after years of trying. Husbands saying they feel they’ve “got their wife back”. Children noticing a change in their mothers. These are not metrics you can easily quantify, but for Elissa, they carry weight. They are evidence that the brand is doing something real, something that extends beyond transactions.

It’s a perspective that feels increasingly important in a space often driven by optics. Elissa isn’t interested in chasing attention for its own sake. Instead, she is building something quieter, more deliberate – a brand that speaks directly to women who have long felt overlooked, and does so with honesty rather than hype.

In many ways, that restraint is her greatest strength. Where others shout, she explains.

Where others promise, she questions. And in doing so, Elissa Corrigan is not just creating products, but reshaping the conversation around what wellness can – and should – look like for women at every stage of life. elle-sera.com

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BRUSH WITH

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North Wales artist Elysia Gilman’s paintings have become renowned for their realism, with work even featured on a billboard in Times Square.

Absolutely meets her

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T

he work of Elysia Gilman is rooted in a deep sensitivity to fleeting moments – those quiet, often unnoticed instances that carry emotion, atmosphere and narrative. A painter from North Wales, Elysia combines a disciplined grounding in traditional techniques with a distinctly contemporary lens, creating works that feel both timeless and immediate.

In an increasingly digital world, Elysia’s paintings o!er something enduring – handcrafted reflections of memory, emotion and lived experience. Here, she describes her working process.

Q How did your training at the Realist

Academy of Art at Walton Hall shape your technical approach compared to your earlier Fine Art studies?

A Studying at the Realist Academy of Art at Walton Hall gave me exactly what I felt was missing at university. At uni, I wasn’t really taught how to draw or paint in a traditional sense, which is what I was really hoping to learn.

At the Academy, we were taught by a graduate of the Florence Academy of Fine Art, and everything was focused on the fundamentals – proportions, facial structure, tone, mixing colours, values. It was very disciplined and technical, and I loved that. I remember saying after my first session that I’d learned more in that one day than I had in my whole time at uni! It

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CULTURE • ART catching people’s attention?

A One of the first big turning points was my Savoy series, which I created after watching a documentary about The Savoy around 2021. I became really inspired by the history and elegance of it and capturing people in the hotel, and based a series of paintings around the hotel.

The response was so exciting. The Savoy shared my work on social media, which brought so many new eyes to what I was doing. When I started releasing the paintings, some of them sold within the first minute, which was such an exciting and surreal moment. That was probably when I realised my work was reaching beyond just friends and family and local people.

Q Can you sum up your artistic style?

A I always say I’m not sure if I even

have a “style” but if I had to label it, I’d probably say Impressionist Realism – if that’s even a thing!

From a distance, my work looks quite realistic, but when you go up close you can see all the brushstrokes and pops of colour.

I’m really inspired by the Impressionists and their use of vibrant colour and visible marks. I don’t fully blend anything – I like the painting to feel alive and for you to still see the movement of the brush.

Q Many of your works capture fleeting

moments – travel scenes, sporting events, everyday life. What draws you to those in-between, atmospheric moments rather than posed compositions?

A I’ve always loved people-watching. I think the most beautiful moments are often the ones where people don’t realise they’re

completely changed my confidence in my technical ability, as I felt I had been taught the foundations to build my own work upon.

Q Growing up in North Wales, how

has the landscape and culture there influenced your sense of colour, atmosphere and storytelling?

A I’m always so grateful to have grown up in North Wales. The natural beauty here is incredible – the mountains, the sky, the sea, the hills, the way the light changes through the seasons. Even though I don’t paint landscapes very often, the colours in nature definitely influence how I mix and use colour in my work.

In summer, especially, everything feels so vivid and alive. There’s also something quite atmospheric and cinematic about the landscape here at times, and I think that subtly feeds into my storytelling. I feel very grateful to call it home and I’m proud to be Welsh.

Q When did you first realise you

were creating work that was

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CULTURE • ART

BRACED FOR THE EVENING

being observed as they’re more natural.

I love capturing those in-between moments where something might have just happened, or something might be about to happen, or people engaged in an activity, sport or conversation. It leaves the story open-ended so the viewer can connect to it in their own way and maybe see something of their own life, experiences and memories in it.

REFLECTIONS AT THE SAVOY

Q Do you have a favourite piece of work,

light falls across the face and high chroma transition shades. I use lots of colour in the skin tones to make them feel tangible and real, and I rely on visible brushstrokes to describe the planes and structure of the face. I don’t fully blend anything.

I’ve been told I capture personality even without meeting the person, which means so much to me because that’s always the goal; not just painting what someone looks like, but who they are.

A “Reflections at The Savoy” definitely

Q You’ve been recognised by institutions

or a couple that stand out for any reason?

stands out. I was really proud of it because I painted it completely freehand, and technically it pushed me. It was also the piece that ended up being shown on a digital billboard in Times Square, which was completely surreal.

I also love “Braced for the Evening”, which was the first piece in my Voyage series. With that one, I really pushed myself in terms of storytelling and colour, and it felt like a step forward in my confidence and style.

Q When beginning a commissioned

portrait, how do you ensure you capture not just a likeness, but the emotion and personality of your subject?

A My work often gets described as photographic, which I’m so grateful for because it means I’ve captured the likeness!

But I do try to go further than that.

Even though I usually work from photos, I study the subtle expressions and the way

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such as the Portrait Society of America and selected for the National Gallery’s “200 Creators”. How important is that recognition to you?

A It was such an honour to be recognised by organisations like the Portrait Society of America, especially knowing how many talented artists enter. That kind of recognition is really a!rming.

At the same time, the response from the public means just as much to me.

When someone chooses to commission a piece or bring one of my paintings into their home, that personal connection feels incredibly special. Both types of recognition are meaningful in different ways.

technically. Being commissioned by a well-known figure one day would be such a fun and exciting challenge.

I’ve recently launched my own range of brushes, which is really exciting, and I’ve released digital downloads and video tutorials before, so I might expand on those. I’m starting to do print drops of my work as well, which I love because it makes my art more accessible.

More than anything, I just want to keep painting, keep improving, and keep following my passion. elysiagilman.com

Q Looking ahead, what

ambitions do you have?

A I’d honestly just love to keep doing

what I’m doing and continue growing and learning. More commissions, more storytelling, and pushing myself

ELYSIA AT WORK

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Making sustainable living beautiful

Artisan homeware handcrafted in England. www.tomraffield.com

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A E G E A N E L E G A N C E Set in pine-clad hills, Zeus Eleva Ajul offers an idyllic setting for weddings, wellness and a relaxed Mediterranean break, where nature, design and hospitality come together in effortless harmony

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et amid pine-clad hills overlooking the Aegean, Zeus Eleva Ajul feels as though it was designed with life’s most meaningful moments in mind. Weddings, rather apt considering Absolutely’s special this month, take centre stage here. Whether it’s an intimate barefoot ceremony by the water or a larger celebration framed by golden Mediterranean light, the resort offers a setting that feels both effortlessly elegant and deeply personal. There’s a sense that everything unfolds naturally – the sea shimmering in the distance, the scent of herbs in the air, and a calm, unhurried rhythm that invites you to savour each moment.

It’s this atmosphere that makes Ajul such a compelling destination for couples seeking something more than a traditional venue.

Ceremonies are tailored with care, from bespoke menus inspired by local flavours to thoughtful details that reflect each couple’s story. And beyond the wedding itself, there’s the added appeal of a place where guests can truly unwind – turning a single day into an extended celebration of connection, relaxation and shared experience.

Located in Agia Paraskevi on the Kassandra peninsula of Halkidiki, Ajul occupies a stretch of coastline where forested hills meet crystalline waters. The setting is quietly spectacular. Pine trees roll down towards the sea, and the light shifts throughout the day – soft and silvery

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in the morning, rich and golden as evening approaches. It’s a landscape that encourages you to slow down, breathe deeply and tune into the simple pleasures of being here.

Arriving at the resort, the sense of space is immediate. Pathways wind through greenery, opening onto views of pools, terraces and the distant shoreline. The main building is airy and contemporary, with warm tones and natural materials that echo the surrounding environment.

There’s a calm, understated luxury to it all – nothing feels overdone, yet every detail has been carefully considered.

Our room continues this theme of relaxed elegance. Designed in a soft Mediterranean palette, it’s both spacious and soothing, with clean lines, tactile fabrics and thoughtful lighting that shifts with the day. Floor-to-ceiling doors open onto a private terrace overlooking the landscape, where the horizon stretches out towards the sea. Many of the resort’s rooms and villas feature private or shared pools, and it’s easy to see the appeal – a quiet, personal space where you can begin or end the day in complete tranquillity.

Inside, the comforts are all there: a generous bathroom with premium amenities, plush robes and slippers, and a well-stocked minibar alongside coffee and tea facilities.

It’s the kind of space that encourages lingering – a place to retreat to after a day in the sun or a long, leisurely dinner.

Food, as you might expect in this part of Greece, plays a central role in

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Ajul reveals itself as a resort designed for a wide range of experiences the experience. Ajul’s three restaurants offer distinct yet complementary approaches to Mediterranean dining. At Infinity, dishes are served with a light, contemporary touch, celebrating seasonal ingredients and clean flavours. Thimari draws more directly on Greek tradition, reimagining familiar recipes with a refined, modern sensibility. Meanwhile, Ambrosia brings Italian influences into the mix, with fresh, vibrant plates that feel both comforting and elevated.

Dining here is less about formality and more about atmosphere. Lunches stretch lazily by the pool, accompanied by chilled wine and the sound of water lapping nearby.

As evening falls, the mood shifts – golden hour drinks give way to dinners under the stars, where the air is warm and the conversation flows easily. There’s a strong emphasis on local produce throughout, from sun-ripened vegetables and fragrant herbs to freshly caught seafood and exceptional olive oil. It’s food that feels rooted in place, yet thoughtfully interpreted.

The six bars dotted around the resort each offer their own distinct setting.

There’s something undeniably appealing about a cocktail at the beachfront Enki bar, where the rhythm of the waves provides a gentle backdrop. Elsewhere, the swim-up

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Ananas bar brings a more playful energy, while the Lounge Bar offers a quieter, more intimate space for evening drinks.

Wherever you choose, the emphasis is on relaxed enjoyment rather than spectacle.

Beyond the dining and social spaces, Ajul reveals itself as a resort designed for a wide range of experiences. Wellness, in particular, is woven into the fabric of the place. The spa draws inspiration from the region’s longstanding tradition of healing, incorporating natural elements such as olive oil, honey and aromatic herbs into its treatments.

There’s a sense of quiet restoration here – a chance to step away from the pace of everyday life and reconnect with yourself.

The facilities extend beyond the treatment rooms. A heated indoor pool, sauna and steam areas provide additional space to unwind, while yoga sessions and fitness options cater to those seeking a more active approach to wellbeing. It’s a holistic offering, one that feels aligned with the surrounding environment rather than imposed upon it.

For those drawn to activity and exploration, the resort offers plenty to discover. Scenic trails wind through the surrounding hills, inviting leisurely walks or more energetic hikes. Sports courts provide opportunities for tennis, padel,

basketball and volleyball, while the coastline opens up possibilities for snorkelling and diving in the clear, inviting waters.

Families are equally well catered for.

A dedicated kids’ club and a variety of activities ensure that younger guests are engaged and entertained, while spaces such as the adventure park encourage a sense of play and discovery. The waterpark, in particular, brings a lively contrast to the resort’s otherwise tranquil atmosphere.

Slides, pools and shaded lounging areas create a space where laughter and movement take centre stage – a reminder that relaxation can take many forms.

Yet even with all these options, there’s no pressure to fill every moment. Ajul excels in offering the freedom to do as much or as little as you wish. Seven outdoor pools are scattered across the property, each with its own character, from lively social hubs to quieter corners designed for contemplation. It’s always possible to find a spot to settle into, whether with a book, a drink or simply your own thoughts.

For guests who wish to explore beyond the resort, a complimentary shuttle provides easy access to nearby beaches. Halkidiki is known for its stunning coastline, and the stretches of sand here are no exception – soft, pale and lapped by clear, gently sloping

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CULTURE • TRAVEL waters. It’s the perfect setting for a day by the sea, whether you’re seeking solitude or a more sociable beach atmosphere.

Back at Ajul, evenings often take on a gentle, celebratory tone. Open-air cinema screenings and entertainment spaces add variety to the nights, while the warm hospitality of the staff ensures that every interaction feels genuine.

There’s an ease to the service here – attentive without being intrusive, always anticipating what you might need before you have to ask.

And it all circles back, inevitably, to those defining moments – the weddings and celebrations that bring people here in the first place. Ajul has a way of elevating these occasions without overwhelming them. The natural beauty of the surroundings does much of the work, while the team ensures that every detail is handled with care and precision. The result is an experience that feels both polished and deeply authentic.

As our time here draws to a close, it’s this sense of harmony that lingers. Ajul is not about grand gestures or dramatic statements.

Instead, it offers something more subtle and, ultimately, more lasting – a place where nature, design and hospitality come together in quiet balance. Whether you arrive for a wedding, a family holiday or simply a few days of rest, it’s a destination that encourages you to slow down, reconnect and savour the beauty of the Mediterranean at its most refined. zeusintl.com

Ajul excels in offering the freedom to do as much or as little as you wish

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INTRODUCING AMOH RHODES

Effortless elegance in a secluded Aegean setting.

The AMOH, a Luxury Collection Resort in Rhodes, is one of the newest high-end arrivals to grace Greece this summer.

Perfectly positioned on a secluded peninsula on the sun-drenched island of Rhodes, AMOH offers an exceptional escape in Pefki, within easy reach of Lindos. This brand-new, design-led resort is tailored for couples, honeymooners and luxury travellers seeking refined seclusion, curated experiences, suites with private pools, outstanding cuisine, and indulgent spa and wellness offerings.

Plan your escape and talk to our experienced team at Prestbury Travel.

To book, visit our Prestbury Travel Experts in Poynton and Prestbury 01625 855855 | prestburytravel.co.uk | enquiry@prestburytravel.co.uk

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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP

THE VIP experience Why race days at Chester Racecourse are always extra special

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ring the ooh la la to your next race day experience at Chester Racecourse, with their renowned hospitality. Whether its entertaining clients, celebrating a milestone or popping the Champagne for a special occasion, Chester Racecourse’s delicious dishes, top-notch service and stylish venues promise to deliver an unforgettable day. You’ll be visiting as a VIP! Beyond the thunder of hooves and the spectacle of race day fashion, it is the racecourse’s refined approach to hospitality that truly distinguishes it within the luxury landscape. From the moment guests arrive, there is an unmistakable sense of occasion. Private boxes, elevated restaurants, and exclusive lounges o!er panoramic views of the Roodee, blending proximity to the action with sumptuous food and drinks. The atmosphere is perfectly curated for those who expect both excitement and elegance in equal measure.

Dining is central to the experience.

Seasonal menus showcase the best of British produce, often with a modern European twist, crafted by accomplished chefs who understand that race day indulgence should feel both celebratory and sophisticated.

Fine wines and expertly mixed cocktails complement each course, while attentive sta! ensure that service flows seamlessly.

What sets Chester apart is its ability to personalise luxury. Whether hosting corporate clients, celebrating milestones, or simply indulging in a day out, guests can tailor their experience to an exceptional degree with every detail considered. This adaptability makes the racecourse not only a sporting venue, but also a premier destination for high-end social gatherings.

The heritage of the venue enhances its allure. As the oldest racecourse still in operation, Chester carries centuries of tradition, yet its hospitality o!ering feels contemporary. It is this balance, between legacy and innovation, that resonates with modern luxury consumers, who seek authenticity alongside comfort.

Ultimately, hospitality at Chester Racecourse is about more than exclusivity; it is about creating moments that linger.

As the final race concludes and the sun sets over the track, guests depart with more than memories of winners, they leave having experienced a unique racing experience. Where sport, style, and service converge e!ortlessly.

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your spring escape awaits Spa days, refined dining and luxury stays in the Lincolnshire countryside.

lacebymanor.co.uk

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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP

Capturing memories

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Absolutely discovers more about Shiny Moments, the business founded by Asima Crewe to help preserve those special moments

n an age defined by the ephemeral – fleeting stories, endless scrolling, and the quiet erosion of tangible memory – one entrepreneur is inviting us to slow down and curate a more meaningful legacy. Enter Shiny Moments, a newly launched service founded by Asima Crewe, a Manchester-based digital transformation specialist who has reimagined how modern families preserve their most treasured possessions.

Asima’s insight is both simple and deeply resonant: while we live increasingly digital lives, our most emotionally significant artefacts remain stubbornly physical.

Children’s artwork tucked into drawers, handwritten letters folded into boxes, fading photographs hidden in albums – these are the objects that carry the weight of identity, love, and time. Yet, too often, they are left to gather dust.

“Memories aren’t clutter,” Asima reflects. “They’re expressions of who we are. The challenge is preserving them in a way that fits contemporary life.”

At the heart of Shiny Moments is its signature offering, The Modern Memory Box™ – a thoughtfully designed, end-to-end service that transforms analogue keepsakes into an elegantly organised digital archive.

Clients receive a beautifully curated kit, enabling them to send in their most meaningful items for expert digitisation.

The result is a refined, accessible digital library that can be revisited, shared, and safeguarded for generations. It is, in essence, a luxury of a different kind – not one of excess, but of intention.

In a market saturated with fast fixes and disposable trends, Shiny Moments distinguishes itself through a commitment to craftsmanship and care. Each item is handled meticulously, digitised to high standards, and returned – or responsibly recycled – according to the client’s wishes. The process is seamless, discreet, and underpinned by transparent pricing, eschewing the gimmicks of flash sales in favour of quiet confidence.

There is also a subtle cultural shift underpinning the brand’s appeal. As consumers increasingly seek authenticity over algorithm-driven content, there is a growing desire to reconnect with personal narratives rather than curated digital personas. Shiny Moments speaks directly to this sensibility, offering not just a service, but a philosophy: that our own stories deserve as much attention as the ones we consume.

Asima, who has aptly adopted the title “Chief Memory Maker”, embodies this ethos.

Working in the high-velocity world of AI alongside a more reflective, purpose-driven venture mirrors a broader recalibration among modern professionals – one that values meaning alongside achievement.

Ultimately, Shiny Moments is less about

ASIMA CREWE

digitisation and more about preservation in its truest sense. It invites clients to reclaim their histories, to edit with intention, and to create a legacy that is both beautifully organised and deeply personal.

Because in a world that moves relentlessly forward, the greatest luxury may simply be the ability to hold on to what matters.

Find out more by visiting shinymoments.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

Treasured possessions The Gold & Silver Roadshow events head to Cheshire this month, an opportunity to cash in on a host of vintage objects

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here will be a host of Gold & Silver Roadshows across Cheshire over the course of May and into June, with special one-day events being held at: Altrincham Conservative Club, 24-30 Market Street, Altrincham, WA14 1PF on 8th and 20th May; The Rams Head, Buxton Road West, Disley, SK12 2AE on 9th May; Macdonald Hotel, Tarporley Road, Whitchurch, SY13 4HA on 26th May; and Macdonald Portal Hotel Golf & Spa, Cobblers Cross Lane, Tarporley, CW6 0DJ on 5th June.

What can you expect at these events? A Jewellery & Coin Roadshow will be held at the Bromborough Royal Oak. A very lucky couple called at one of their recent roadshow events with a couple of old gold chains and a silver charm bracelet and a bag of old silver coins. They were paid over £1,600 just for the coins alone. They turned out to be pre 1947 silver coins that were normal currency a few years ago and are now highly collected.

Like most people, who can only dream of winning the pools or the lottery, a lot of normal

households have a hidden treasure of old gold jewellery, silver jewellery, teapots, trophies, trays and old objets d’art. Why not get a free valuation from an expert at one of the roadshows?

There is no queuing and their experts will give you a one on one appraisal of the value of your treasured possessions in a private area, where there are no prying eyes, watching the process evolve. If you like the valuation, their expert will make you the same offer in cash which you can accept or decline at no cost to yourself.

Anything can be an unearthed treasure.

Any old British or foreign coins. Any old wrist watches or pocket watches. All chains, bracelets, rings and bangles broken or not and in any condition. If you think it is a diamond ring, bring it along and they will confirm it to be genuine. If you have an old trophy or tankard or any silver

coloured items, let them value them for you.

Old war medals and old Masonic medals can be very valuable. You will be surprised to hear that they have paid thousands of pounds for certain war medals and even the General Service Medal group is worth bringing especially if you have the original box. Also of great interest are old military uniforms, tunics, hats and any army, navy or RAF field gear.

There are rarely any queues at the events and they can normally offer a valuation within a few minutes. They will give you a free valuation on which they back up with a cash offer, there and then. Get looking now in your old drawers, cupboards, and jewellery boxes.

Look in the loft and the cellar, even old broken or squashed items of jewellery and silver are valuable. Of particular interest are gold and silver cigarette cases, Vesta Cases, thimbles, candlesticks, trays and all things silver are needed. Pocket watches in gold and silver and all wristwatches by: Rolex, Cartier, Omega, Longines, IWC are particularly in demand.

07378 965411 / goldandsilverroadshow.co.uk

R oa d s h ow e v e nts ALTRINCHAM Friday 8th May / Wednesday 20th May Altrincham Conservative Club, 24-30 Market Street, Altrincham, WA14 1PF DISLEY Saturday 9th May The Rams Head, Buxton Road West, Disley, SK12 2AE WHITCHURCH Tuesday 26th May Macdonald Hotel, Tarporley Road, Whitchurch, SY13 4HA TARPORLEY Friday 5th June Macdonald Portal Hotel Golf & Spa, Cobblers Cross Lane, Tarporley, CW6 0DJ

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FOOD & DRINK

BE OUR GUEST THE WHITE HORSE

The White Horse in Churton has announced the return of its Guest Chef Series for spring 2026, with some of the UK’s most in-demand chefs taking over the kitchen for a run of oneoff, ticketed dinners in the Cheshire village pub. On 11th May Andrew McLeish takes centre stage, chef-patron of Chapter One, where he has held a Michelin star and four AA Rosettes. thewhitehorsechurton.co.uk

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WHAT TO DRINK

TASTING NOTES

GRAPE news

Food news and the most exciting openings across the North West

By MARK KEBBLE

Wine recommendations for the month

By THE WINE SOCIETY

The Society's Pinot Grigio 2025  £9.50 This elegant Italian pinot grigio, made exclusively for The Wine Society, really hits the spot. With lemon and ripe conference pear on the nose, this is refreshing and bright with a crisp, slightly salty finish.

Muac! Terra de Falanis Mallorca 2022  £13.95 From the south-eastern part of Mallorca, this is a blend of indigenous varieties led by the island's signature grape callet with mantonegreo-fogoneu and a touch of cabernet sauvignon for structure. The wine has lovely graphite perfume with juicy blue and black fruit.

Prosecco Brut I Duecento  £9.75 Prosecco is a fantastic choice when looking for a crisp, apple- and pearscented, delicate fizz. Made for The Wine Society by the expert team at Araldica, this is fresh and gentle with elderflower notes on the finish.

Since it was founded back in 1874, The Wine Society has dared to do business a little differently. Bringing together a community united by a shared love of wine, The Society is a co-operative and owned by its members. This means there is no requirement to pump profit into annual dividends or bonuses for shareholders – all profits go back into the business.

The Wine Society welcomes all wine lovers.

Become a member today and receive £20 off toward your first order. thewinesociety.com

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Smart dining E ATC L U B

EatClub has arrived in Manchester, the fast-growing dining app backed by Marco Pierre White that gives users access to exclusive prices at some of the city’s favourite restaurants and bars. EatClub helps restaurants make the most of quieter moments by offering smart, real-time pricing during off-peak hours. eatclub.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

TAKE TREAT THREE YOURSELF Indulge in these Our favourite delicious desserts

tasty bakes

R I C H

F L AV O U R S SEAFORTH

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Manchester’s favourite year-round spot, The Lawn Club, is bringing fresh flavours to its go-to city garden with a full menu refresh, £10 weekday lunch deal, updated bottomless brunch and extended happy hours, marking the start of the venue’s summer season. thelawnclub.co.uk

Seaforth, the signature restaurant within The Municipal Hotel & Spa Liverpool, has unveiled a new collection of spring/ summer menus. The menus bring together local provenance and international influence. seaforthrestaurant.com

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Morbi efficitur sauce and fresh raspberries, malesuada convallis.

Nulla maximus topped with pearl sugar. condimentum urna, sed malesuada birleybakery.com augue. Aenean xxxxxxxxxxx.co.uk

M A N Y

H A P P Y

RETURNS DEFINE FOOD & WINE

Bean count WO O D F I R E D C O F F E E

Australian cult brand Wood Fired Coffee has launched in the UK with its rare approach to roasting: every batch is slow-roasted over real wood fire fuelled by sustainably sourced hardwoods.

The result is a sweet, flame-kissed flavour. woodfiredcoffee.co.uk

X X XCXAXKXEXO X FXFX X X Sublime Lorem chocolate ipsum dolor sponge sit amet, is layered consectetur with sweet adipiscing salted caramel elit. Praesent and chocolate ut odio quis fudge dui convallis buttercream, tincidunt. then Morbi finished efficitur with caramel malesuada fudge convallis. pieces and Nullachocolate maximuschips condimentum for this Cutter urna, sed andmalesuada Squidge decadent augue. Aenean cake. cutterandsquidge.com xxxxxxxxxxx.co.uk

Cheshire wine merchant and restaurant DeFine Food & Wine is celebrating its 25th anniversary with the release of an exclusive limited-edition magnum, created in collaboration with renowned Lebanese winery Massaya. definefoodandwine.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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MOWGLI

C u l i n a r y C R E D E N T I A L S With the Liverpool Biennial launching on 5th June, it’s the perfect time to also look at how the city’s food scene has become one of the UK’s best

L 8 BY ANDREW SHERIDAN

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ong celebrated as a city of rich culture, sport and music – home to a diverse programme of concerts and music festivals, world-class exhibitions, and passionate football celebrations – Liverpool is now earning national recognition for its food and drink scene. Recently named the UK’s top food city by Time Out in both 2024 and 2025, the city’s food and drink offering blends historic culinary institutions with a new generation of ambitious chefs, restaurateurs and a burgeoning wine scene.

The city continues to attract inward investment and top-tier talent, supported by a £5.5 billion regeneration of Liverpool’s iconic waterfront and docklands – one of the most ambitious urban renewal projects in Europe.

Alongside this transformation, established restaurant groups such as Dishoom, Hawksmoor and Flat Iron have chosen the North West city as a key location for expansion in recent years.

ALBERT DOCK Liverpool’s historic waterfront and docklands remain one of the city’s most iconic backdrops, where maritime history meets contemporary hospitality venues.

Among them, the award-winning Bar Glue has quickly established itself as one of the UK’s leading cocktail destinations, recently ranked No.2 in the 50 Best Cocktail Bars in the UK. Known for its warm service and community-led approach to cocktail making, it exemplifies the ambition and quality emerging from Liverpool’s bar scene, playing host to some of the world’s most celebrated cocktail bars including Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy and New York’s Sip & Guzzle.

Nearby, Liverpool-born Maray has cemented its place as a cornerstone of the city’s modern restaurant movement.

Since opening in 2014, the restaurant has continued to attract both local and national attention for its Middle Eastern-inspired small plates such as Spiced lentil and rice mejadara; the signature Disco Cauliflower; and Medjool date bread and butter pudding.

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FOOD & DRINK • FOCUS FLAT IRON

COMMERCIAL DISTRICT Liverpool’s Commercial District continues to evolve into one of the city’s most exciting destinations for food, drink and nightlife, with Castle Street as the flagship location for this transformation. The area has seen a wave of high-profile openings that are sparking a culinary revolution within the city, with notable recent openings such as Dishoom and Simone’s Cocktail Club – a stylish new vinyl bar – further underlining the area’s reputation as a day-to-night destination.

Among the standout venues is NORD, a restaurant rooted in northern hospitality, where friendly, genuine service sits alongside food and drink inspired by the people and local producers it works with. Executive Chef Daniel Heffy – a proud Liverpudlian representing the North West on this season of Great British Menu – describes the menu as “Travelled British”; a reflection of his northern roots combined with the influence of time spent cooking in Scandinavia. His approach is expressed through thoughtful, produce-led dishes such as Roscoff onion tart tatin, walnut, chive, truffle and Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire custard; and BBQ hen of the woods with tortellini, Jerusalem artichoke, black garlic and mushroom sauce.

BOLD STREET Bold Street has long been synonymous with Liverpool’s independent spirit, and today it remains one of the most vibrant hospitality corridors in the city.

A magnet for students, creatives and visitors, the street is home to an eclectic mix of cafés, restaurants and bars that reflect Liverpool’s diversity and energy.

BAR GLUE

At the heart of the street’s café culture is Bold Street Coffee, a long-standing favourite known for its commitment to specialty coffee and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

A pioneer of Liverpool’s independent coffee scene, it has become a staple meeting place for locals and visitors alike, helping to shape Bold Street’s reputation as a hub for creative, independent businesses. Nearby, speciality coffee shop and wine bar, Ropes & Twines, has built a loyal following for its curated wine selection and relaxed, neighbourhood feel, while the original Mowgli restaurant from restaurateur Nisha Katona has become a household name with its distinctive take on Indian home-style cooking, demonstrating how Liverpool-born concepts can achieve national success while maintaining strong local roots.

CAVERN QUARTER The Cavern Quarter in Liverpool is best known for its music heritage around the Cavern Club, but its restaurant scene has grown into a lively mix of casual dining and high-end experiences. Along Mathew Street and its surrounding alleys, venues such as The Cavern Restaurant offer approachable, crowd-pleasing menus in a setting that reflects the area’s welcoming, tourist-friendly atmosphere. In contrast, one of the most distinctive restaurants is 8 by Andrew Sheridan. This intimate, chef’s table concept delivers a theatrical tasting menu for a small number of diners, combining modern British cuisine with music and storytelling to create a multisensory experience.

THE BALTIC TRIANGLE The Baltic Triangle continues to play a significant role in shaping the city’s wider hospitality landscape. Once an industrial district, the neighbourhood has transformed

into one of Liverpool’s most experimental and fastevolving BOLD STREET COFFEE quarters, known for its cultural spaces and independent venues including The Baltic Market.

Among the restaurants helping to elevate the area’s culinary reputation is Manifest, the acclaimed modern British restaurant led by chef-owner Paul Durand. Celebrated for its seasonal tasting menus and open-kitchen dining experience, Manifest showcases thoughtful, ingredient-led cooking that has drawn both critical praise and a growing national profile, through carefully-curated dishes like Char siu celeriac with burnt apple and hazelnut; and the ‘Scouse’ lamb skewer – a playful nod to Liverpool’s most famous dish.

DISHOOM

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FOOD & DRINK • PARTNERSHIP SCALLOPS WITH SAFFRON CREAM MINI BEEF TATAKI

TUNA AHI

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TRIO

Nantwich’s NINE Mill Street is renowned for its stunning dishes - and here are three reasons why

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INE Mill Street, a small plates restaurant in Nantwich, continues to build a reputation for bold, contemporary dining with an Asianinspired edge. Each menu is a celebration of flavour and creativity, carefully crafted to excite both loyal regulars and firsttime visitors. At the centre of this latest offering are three standout dishes that have quickly risen to the top of diners’ must-order lists, each one showcasing the kitchen’s attention to detail and passion for balanced, vibrant plates.

At the heart of NINE’s current and previous menus lies a dish that has quickly become a signature favourite (and one they can’t take off the menu otherwise they will incite a riot): the Mini Beef Tataki. Lightly

sealed to preserve tenderness, the beef is elevated by a rich Japanese sweet soy that delivers depth without overpowering.

Layers of chilli flakes and mirin bring a gentle heat and subtle sweetness, while spring onion, sesame seeds and crispy garlic add texture and aromatic crunch.

The addition of pickled ginger cuts through with brightness, and fresh coriander ties it all together. It’s this harmony of flavour, texture and freshness that keeps guests coming back time and again, making it the restaurant’s most popular dish and a true reflection of modern Asian-inspired dining.

Equally compelling is the indulgent yet refined Scallops with saffron cream.

This dish showcases perfectly sautéed scallops, caramelised on the outside while remaining delicately soft within. The richness comes from a luxurious white wine and saffron cream reduction, which

envelops the scallops in a velvety, fragrant sauce. Edamame soy beans introduce a subtle nuttiness and vibrant colour, while crispy bacon lardons add a smoky, savoury contrast that enhances every bite. Finished with a scattering of fresh chives, the dish strikes a careful balance between decadence and freshness. Its popularity lies in this contrast. Comforting yet elegant, rich yet not overwhelming, making it a firm favourite for diners seeking something more traditional but not boring.

Last but not least, the Tuna Ahi. Seared to a perfect medium rare, the tuna retains its natural tenderness and colour, while developing a delicate outer crust of sesame seeds. The dish is complemented

by Japanese mayo for creaminess, ponzu for a citrusy lift, and a dusting of shichimi togarashi powder that adds a gentle, complex heat. Spring onions and coriander bring freshness, rounding out the dish beautifully.

Its appeal lies in its clean, vibrant profile (lighter than many options), yet still packed with flavour. As diners increasingly look for dishes that feel both nourishing and exciting, the Tuna Ahi has quickly established itself as a must-try on the new menu.

Together, these three dishes perfectly capture the spirit of NINE Mill Street: bold flavours, thoughtful combinations and a commitment to creating plates that not only taste exceptional but leave a lasting impression.

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FOOD & DRINK • DRINKS

BIEN SUR

Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Côtes de Gascogne Sauvignon Blanc punches well above its price point, delivering lively citrus, a hint of white peach, and a crisp, clean finish.

The smartest buy on the bank holiday table, £7.50. sainsburys.co.uk

English Rising Abingworth Vineyard’s newly released Pinot Noir is English winemaking at its most promising.

Delicate red cherry, a whisper of earth, and silky texture make it a refined pour for May lunches and long weekends that deserve something special, £28. abingworthvineyard.com

Maremma MIA May deserves something a little special, and Morellino di Scansano Riserva Roggiano delivers. Rich cherry fruit, earthy depth, and Maremma sunshine in every glass. Serve alongside grilled lamb or slow-cooked ragu for a bank holiday that feels celebratory, £14. waitrosecellar.com

MayDay P

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Five bottles built for bank holidays B y N ATA L I A S U TA

Bright Find

SIX APPEAL 6Percent’s newly released Sauvignon Blanc is the bank holiday bottle you didn’t know you needed.

Its crisp citrus, green herb, and a clean finish will keep you coming back, and at just 6% abv, it’s made for the long game, £15.99.

6percent.wine

Albastrele’s Cravet Hill Sauvignon Blanc is the wildcard your May bank holiday deserves. Hailing from Moldova, it brings bright lemon, green herb, and a lively mineral finish that punches well above expectations. Fresh, distinctive, and genuinely surprising, £11.99. laithwaites.co.uk Natalia Suta is a WSET-certified wine writer and educator with a knack for making wine accessible and fun. When she is not writing, she’s busy curating wine experiences and offering consultancy to help others discover the joy of wine. Follow Natalia on Instagram @_winerocks_

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FA S H I O N

Precious meaning BERRY’S JEWELLERS

Emeralds, May’s birthstone, symbolise renewal, love and prosperity, making them a deeply meaningful birthday gift. Their rich green hue evokes spring’s vitality, while their rarity adds a sense of luxury. Twinned with diamonds, emeralds offer timeless elegance and emotional significance to create a treasured keepsake for any loved one celebrating in May. Discover the stunning range of Emerald jewellery at your nearest Berry’s boutique or at berrysjewellers.co.uk

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F e e l g o o d Boden's summer collection – available at stockists across Cheshire – is full of colour and joy, with standout dresses, polished tailored two-pieces and vibrant knitwear

f a s h i o n

BODEN.COM

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FASHION • FOCUS

saturation diving, helium molecules can infiltrate the watch case in hyperbaric chambers. Without a release mechanism, pressure could build internally and compromise the crystal. The valve allows this excess gas to escape safely during decompression, protecting the watch without sacrificing waterproofness.

Reliability at such depths is rigorously proven. Every Rolex Deepsea undergoes waterproof testing with a safety margin of 25 percent beyond its rated depth. Rolex even developed a specialised hyperbaric tank in collaboration with the French underwater engineering firm COMEX to conduct these extreme trials. Under such conditions, the crystal withstands nearly four tonnes of force, while the compression ring and case back resist up to 4.5 and 5 tonnes respectively.

Functionality remains paramount.

The unidirectional rotating bezel

Depth & precision Rolex Deepsea:: engineering the abyss

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hen Rolex unveiled the Deepsea in 2008, it wasn’t simply introducing another luxury dive watch, it was redefining the limits of underwater horology. Designed to meet the extreme demands of professional saturation divers, the Rolex Deepsea combined uncompromising engineering with the unmistakable aesthetic of the brand’s Oyster Perpetual Professional line. The result was a watch capable of descending where few mechanical timepieces had gone before: 3,900 metres beneath the ocean’s surface. In 2024, Rolex introduced an original version of the Oyster Perpetual Rolex Deepsea in 18ct yellow gold for the first time. This divers’ watch features a 60-minute graduated Cerachrom bezel insert in blue ceramic, as well as a blue lacquer dial bearing the name ‘DEEPSEA’ in powdered yellow.

At the heart of the Deepsea’s formidable capabilities is its 44mm Oyster case, anarchitecture synonymous with durability. Machined from a solid block of

18ct yellow gold, the case provides a fortresslike shell around the watch’s intricate mechanics.The mechanics. mechanics.T he Triplock winding crown, protected by integrated crown guards, features a triple waterproof sealing system and screws securely into the case to maintain absolute watertight integrity.

Rolex’s patented Ringlock system is a case construction specifically engineered to withstand the crushing pressures of the deep ocean. This relies on three key elements working together.

First is the thick, slightly domed sapphire crystal, an impressive 5.5mm in thickness and treated with an anti-reflective coating.

Beneath it sits the compression ring, the structural core that absorbs the immense force exerted by water pressure. The 18ct yellow gold version, introduced in 2024, uses a high- tech blue ceramic variant.

Completing the system is a case back in RLX titanium, secured by a screw-down ring that locks the entire structure together.

Another essential feature for professional divers is the helium escape valve, a technology Rolex patented in 1967. During

ENGINEERED TO WITHSTAND THE CRUSHING PRESSURES OF THE DEEP OCEAN features a Cerachrom insert in black or blue ceramic. The engraved numerals, coated with gold or platinum using PVD technology, remain legible even in harsh conditions. On the dial, Rolex’s Chromalight display ensures exceptional visibility, emitting a long-lasting blue glow from its luminous markers and hands.

Inside beats the Rolex calibre 3235, a selfwinding mechanical movement developed entirely in-house. Featuring the patented Chronergy escapement, a blue Parachrom hairspring, and the brand’s Paraflex shock absorbers, the movement delivers exceptional reliability alongside a 70-hour power reserve. Each watch is certified as a Superlative Chronometer, guaranteeing accuracy within −2/+2 seconds per day.

The Deepsea's design inspired the experimental Rolex Deepsea Challenge, which accompanied filmmaker and explorer James Cameron during his historic 2012 descent to the Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench, the deepest point on Earth. This is a mechanical companion built not just to survive the abyss, but to master it.

Prestons: 11-17 Water Lane, Wilmslow SK9 5AE, 01625 416330 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FASHION • PARTNERSHIP

Tradition of

time Exploring the history of family business John Pass Jewellers, from WWII to becoming an Authorised Rolex Retailer

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ome businesses are built to last a lifetime, while others become part of a family story that spans generations. John Pass belongs firmly to the latter, a jeweller whose roots stretch back more than a century, shaped by craftsmanship, trust, strong values and a deep respect for watchmaking and fine jewellery.

The Pass family’s connection to horology dates to the late 19th century. That heritage would later play a role during one of the most defining periods of the 20th century.

During WWII, three Pass brothers were drafted into the Royal Air Force,

ANDREW PASS, CURRENT THIRD GENERATION MANAGING DIRECTOR OF JOHN PASS

two of whom, John and Edward, were recruited for their watchmaking skills.

They were tasked with making and repairing aircraft instruments, including altimeters, later testing them in the air.

Upon their return, two of the brothers established a small watch repair business in a wooden hut in Haslington, near Crewe.

As the business grew, they expanded into retail, and in 1956, John Pass Snr opened the Nantwich Road store in Crewe, while his brother relocated to Alsager.

As the Crewe business developed, John Pass Snr was joined by his son, John Pass Jnr, who helped establish the retail presence that shapes the business today.

A defining chapter began when a representative from Rolex first visited the Crewe store. At the time, the business could only afford a small number of watches, but recognising the passion behind the family business, the representative agreed.

In 1970, the Crewe store became an Authorised Rolex Retailer.

Alongside this relationship, John Pass is the proud custodian of other prestigious Swiss brands such as Tudor, Omega, and Tag Heuer.

Alongside its expertise in watchmaking, John Pass has become one of South Cheshire and Staffordshire’s leading fine jewellers, supported by relationships with trusted international supplier partners, including German manufacturer

Hans D. Krieger, for which John Pass is the leading UK retailer.

The spirit of craftsmanship can be seen in the story of Martin, their in-house jeweller, whose connection with John Pass spans over half a century. He joined the business in 1974, arriving after school as a young apprentice eager to learn watch and jewellery repair directly from John Pass himself.

Under the founder’s guidance, he developed the skills required to repair, repurpose and care for treasured pieces. Today, Martin continues to oversee the in-house workshop, bringing decades of knowledge and attention to every piece entrusted to their care.

Now led by Andrew Pass, the grandson of John Pass Snr, the business remains proudly family owned and continues to evolve while honouring its heritage and core values.

In 2013, John Pass expanded with the opening of its Newcastleunder-Lyme showroom, with a dedicated Rolex showroom and authorised Rolex Service Centre.

Today, the philosophy at John Pass remains unchanged. It is a family business where craftsmanship, knowledge and trust are paramount, best experienced in person at their showrooms in Crewe and Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Discover more at johnpass.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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

SET THE SCENE SANDHOLE OAK BARN

Set beside tranquil waters, Sandhole Oak Barn offers a warm, rustic setting with refined interiors, flexible spaces, and a relaxed atmosphere, creating a naturally beautiful backdrop for memorable wedding celebrations.

See this and more venues inside this special. leez-priory.co.uk

In this sect ion A W E D D I N G W I S H L I S T 56 W H I T F I E L D & W A R D 60 C H E S H I R E V E N U E S 62 S U M M E R T R E N D S 68 PHOTO: SMH PHOTOGRAPHY

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10 THINGS WE

Absolutely

LOVE Our wedding day wishlist

OLIVER BONAS

These heart-shaped earrings will add a touch of summer fun to your big day, whether for bridesmaids, flower girls or the bride herself. oliverbonas.com

J O H N PA S S JEWELLERS

Freshwater pearls and delicate diamond accents define this 9ct gold bridal set, offering an effortless, timeless finish for modern bridal styling, from ceremony to celebration. johnpass.co.uk

CHANEL

Chanel No5 is a classic choice for a wedding, with its enduring appeal and romantic floral elegance.

It's a timeless fragrance in an iconic bottle. chanel.com

Savannah Miller

Savannah Miller’s eponymous bridal collection uniquely captures a fashion voice within the bridal world. The new Equilibrium collection draws inspiration from early modernist architect Max Bill and his fluid, sculptural forms. savannahmiller.com

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WEDDINGS • 10 THINGS

OLIVER BONAS

JIMMY CHOO

For a real princess-style look, the ivory crystal Bon Bon bag is a dazzler. It earns its iconic status with a contemporary bucket silhouette that is crowned with a crystal bracelet handle. jimmychoo.com

Nothing says 'I love you' like... a pair of heart-shaped sunglasses. Matching ones for bride and groom are a cute addition to a summer wedding. oliverbonas.com

BELLA BELLE

Embrace the romance of your special day with Celia 0.5 inch nude wedding flats, intricately embroidered with ivory lace vines on a subtly tinted nude mesh. bellabelleshoes.com

NOMASEI

These Italian-made kitten heels are designed for dancing with their memory foam cushioning, perfect 5cm height and structure designed for stability.

You'll never need to take them off. nomasei.com

VA N C L E E F & ARPLES

Inspired by tuberose, Fleur de Nuit is a floral amber scent that evokes summer nights and true romance. selfridges.com

MONSOON

These Rosa raffia sandals are stylish and comfortable, and in this natural hue they'll go with any outfit. monsoon.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP

Be your Best Walk down the aisle with complete confidence thanks to Ultimate Performance

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our wedding day is one of the few moments in life where everything is captured, remembered, and revisited forever.

You want to look your best. Feel your best. And walk into your day with complete confidence.

But behind every wedding is an endless list of decisions. The last thing you need is the added pressure of managing your own health and fitness. You don’t have time to experiment. And you don’t get a second chance on the day. That’s where Ultimate Performance (U.P.) comes in.

Recognised as the global benchmark in personal training since 2009, Ultimate Performance has helped more than 30,000 clients across the world achieve life-changing results. U.P. has 26 private training facilities worldwide, operating in Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, and the UAE, and has been helping brides and grooms look and feel their best on their wedding day for more than 15 years.

In the UK, Ultimate Performance has private training facilities in Manchester,

Cheshire, Liverpool, Leeds, and also operates in nine different exclusive locations across London, including Knightsbridge, Mayfair, Kensington, and Chelsea.

Unlike commercial gyms, Ultimate Performance is a fully managed coaching system and fitness concierge service, built to deliver results with certainty: 97% of U.P. clients reach their goals, and 91% maintain their results long-term. U.P. exists for one reason – to help you be your best.

Through the U.P. Method, every part of your transformation is handled for you. Your training is programmed with precision. Nutrition is tailored to your body, lifestyle and schedule. Progress is tracked across more than 50 data points, with weekly reviews to keep you on track.

Most importantly, you’re not left to rely on motivation. Your trainer holds you accountable every step of the way, adjusting your plan, guiding your decisions, and making sure nothing slips as your wedding approaches. No guesswork. No wasted effort. Just measurable progress, and exceptional results in as little as 2–3 hours of training per week. All sessions take place in private, appointment-only training

facilities, where you and your trainer will be completely focused on achieving your goals.

Because your wedding day is about more than how you look. It’s about walking into your big day with confidence, energy, and presence. It’s about feeling strong, standing taller, sleeping better, and radiating health from the inside out.

Don’t leave your wedding to chance.

Trust the system that delivers results.

Be your best on your wedding day, with Ultimate Performance. For more information or to book at a consultation at any of Ultimate Performance’s locations across the UK, please scan the QR code below or visit ultimateperformance.com

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SUIT’S you

Wilmslow-based Whitfield & Ward ensures the groom feels just as important as the bride.

Co-founder, Craig Whitfield, tells us how 60

Q As Director of Whitfield &

Ward, what first drew you into the world of wedding tailoring?

A Nicola and I started the business after we got married because we were so disappointed with what was available when we looked for suits. I had clothing retail experience, and my mother and grandmother were both tailors, so I’d always been brought up in a tailoring environment.

Nicola and I saw a huge opportunity to offer the modern groom something that was stylish, of good quality, and expertly fitted.

We started with hire suits. It was very rare for grooms to buy their suits 14 years ago.

When we started in 2012, our competitors were offering ivory and silver satin waistcoats embroidered with pearls teamed with ivory cravats. It was like groomswear was stuck in the 90s, very reminiscent of David Beckham’s 1999 wedding suit.

We introduced ties, encouraged grooms to avoid ivory (it washes you out), and introduced 3-piece suits with matching

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WEDDINGS • Q&A

CRAIG WHITFIELD AT WORK

scoop-horseshoe-style waistcoats, made popular on X Factor at the time

by Ant and Dec. We also introduced the tweed waistcoat the following year. We began making bespoke suits for grooms in 2014 when lounge suits became more popular than morning suits.

choices and measurements. An extra level of personalisation is available with embroidered initials, wedding dates, or special messages. Our son-in-law had a special message for our daughter embroidered into the lining of his jacket that he revealed to her after they married.

Q What sets Whitfield & Ward

Q What advice would you give to

Q Can you talk us through the process

of creating a bespoke wedding suit?

A We always start with a proper

conversation. We’ll sit down with you and get a clear picture of your wedding. Where it’s taking place, the time of year, the overall feel, and how you want to show up on the day. We’ll try on a few house styles so you can see what works on your frame, then we’ll guide you through clothes, linings, and design details like lapels and pockets.

From there, we take a full set of measurements and draft a pattern unique to your build and posture. Once the suits are in production, we bring you back in for fittings.

This is where the real refinement happens.

We’ll adjust the balance, clean up the lines, and make sure the suit moves properly with you. By the final fitting, every detail’s been dialled in. What you walk away with isn’t just a suit that fits, it’s one that feels natural, looks sharp from every angle, and does exactly what it should on your wedding day.

apart when it comes to crafting wedding suits for modern grooms?

A Our expertise and craftsmanship are central to what we do and are what we have built our reputation on. We understand weddings, we haven’t transferred into the sector as we saw our bespoke suits sales disappear with the decline in business suiting. We know all the venues and what works in them. We understand family dynamics, the groom, and the groomsmen’s dynamics. The importance of putting the groom at the centre and the importance of his suit. The groom’s suit is his armour on his wedding day. It has the power to give him so much (or so little) confidence.

grooms who may not have much experience with tailored clothing?

A Start early. Especially during peak summer, when days get longer, the tailor’s diary will fill up. We allow two hours for the suit design, so my diary can be a bottleneck.

Don’t overthink it, just do it. Visit some tailors; if they’re any good, they should add to your ideas. You shouldn’t design in your first appointment, so you will have time (if you started early) to work through your ideas. Don’t get into fabric selection in your first appointment too. Start early and enjoy the process. Our grooms say it’s the best part of their groom prep.

Q Are more grooms opting for

start thinking about their wedding suit?

A About six months is best. Most weddings take between 12 and 18 months to plan, but you’ve got to remember your weekends are going to get very busy with going to wedding fairs, visiting venues, talking to florists, planning guest lists, and planning your speech!

able to measure is, of course, important, but the key to a great-looking suit is the proportions and how they are used to balance and enhance the wearer’s build.

Accessories are key too. Subtle ties (not ivory, the tie will disappear into the shirt) and pocket squares that elevate the look.

Q What are the most common

Q What do you love about

classic styles or experimenting with bolder, contemporary looks?

A This is heavily influenced by the tailor and their style. Our grooms go for timeless classic looks that will never date. Your wedding suit needs to stand the test of time in your photos and needs to be unique (no other guests wearing it). Wearing high-contrast, bold outfits runs the risk of a guest wearing them and dating. Our bespoke suits say everything but quietly.

Q How important is personalisation

in today’s wedding suits?

A Bespoke suits are the ultimate in

personalisation. It’s designed by the groom to his style choices, fabric

Q How far in advance should a groom

mistakes grooms make?

A Sorting out what the groomsmen versus the grooms look like. Most important is what the groom wants to wear. Forget the other guys. Their look is very easy for us to sort (because we have hired wear and can easily coordinate). All the focus needs to be on the groom and what he wants.

Q What details can elevate a wedding

suit from great to exceptional?

A It’s about the proportions and fit. Being

being based in Cheshire?

A We love Cheshire. It’s accessibility to the

countryside and cities, and the community that we live in. We regularly bump into our clients and their families, and we feel very connected to our town. whitfieldandward.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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DELAMERE MANOR, PHOTO BY MONIKA CAPTURES

TOP

10 PECKFORTON CASTLE peckfortoncastle.co.uk

Wedding

VENUES From castles to country barns, Cheshire has plenty of inspiration when it comes to deciding where to say “I do”

Why it’s special: Fairytale medieval-style

castle offering grandeur and dramatic hilltop setting Peckforton Castle is one of the most striking wedding venues in the North West, offering a setting that feels lifted straight from a storybook. Built in the 19th century in a medieval style, the castle sits high above the Cheshire countryside, surrounded by woodland and panoramic views. Inside, grand halls, vaulted ceilings and stone corridors create a dramatic and immersive atmosphere. Weddings here often take place in the Great Hall, where high ceilings and ornate detailing provide a spectacular backdrop. Despite its scale, the castle retains a sense of warmth and intimacy, with smaller rooms offering quieter moments throughout the day. What makes Peckforton truly unique is its theatrical presence: every element – from the approach to the architecture – contributes to a sense of occasion.

DELAMERE MANOR delameremanor.co.uk

Why it’s special: Exclusive lakeside manor

offering modern luxury and private estate feel Delamere Manor offers a contemporary take

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WEDDINGS • VENUES OAK TREE OF PEOVER

on the country house wedding. Set within a private estate near Delamere Forest, the venue combines modern architecture with a tranquil lakeside setting. The house itself is sleek and stylish, with open-plan interiors and large windows that connect the indoor spaces to the landscape outside. Ceremonies often take place overlooking the lake, creating a calm and picturesque backdrop.

One of the venue’s defining features is its exclusivity. Couples have full use of the estate, allowing the celebration to unfold at a relaxed pace. The contrast between modern design and natural surroundings gives Delamere Manor a distinctive feel.

COLSHAW HALL colshawhall.com

Why it’s special: Elegant country estate

with light-filled barn and manicured gardens Colshaw Hall blends the charm of a traditional country estate with the flexibility of a modern wedding venue. The Georgian house is set within landscaped gardens and parkland, creating a peaceful and refined setting. A standout feature is the purpose-built barn, which offers a bright and spacious environment for ceremonies and receptions. Large windows and neutral interiors allow couples to personalise the space while maintaining a sense of elegance. The surrounding gardens, complete with lawns and water features, provide a beautiful backdrop for drinks receptions and photographs. Colshaw Hall offers the heritage and beauty of a country estate alongside contemporary facilities designed specifically for weddings.

OWEN HOUSE WEDDING BARN

and unpretentious, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy the celebration.

owenhouseweddingbarn.co.uk

Why it’s special: Relaxed rustic barn with

fun, informal atmosphere and on-site farmyard Owen House Wedding Barn offers a refreshingly informal approach to weddings.

Set on a working farm, the venue embraces its rural roots, creating a setting that feels relaxed and full of personality. The barn itself is rustic and characterful, with exposed beams and flexible spaces that can be styled to suit different themes. One of its standout features is the sense of fun that runs throughout the experience, from outdoor spaces to unique touches like tractor rides and farmyard photo opportunities. The atmosphere is sociable

NUNSMERE HALL

MERRYDALE MANOR merrydalemanor.com

Why it’s special: Contemporary

lakeside venue with dramatic glassfronted ceremony space Merrydale Manor is designed with modern weddings in mind, offering a sleek and visually striking setting. The venue centres around a lake, with a glass-fronted ceremony space that frames the water and surrounding landscape, creating a lightfilled environment that feels contemporary and elegant. As the day progresses, the venue transforms, with evening lighting reflecting across the lake to create a dramatic atmosphere. The reception space continues the modern aesthetic, with clean lines and a spacious layout. Merrydale Manor’s defining feature is its design-led approach, making it particularly appealing to couples who want a wedding that feels current, stylish and visually impactful.

NUNSMERE HALL nunsmere.co.uk

Why it’s special: Romantic lakeside country

house surrounded by woodland and gardens Nunsmere Hall offers a classic country house wedding setting with a particularly romantic lakeside location. Surrounded by woodland and set on the edge of a large lake, the house feels secluded and peaceful. Inside, elegant rooms with large windows make the most of the views, while traditional décor adds warmth and character. Outdoor ceremonies overlooking the water are a popular choice, creating a tranquil and picturesque backdrop. What makes Nunsmere unique is its atmosphere: it combines the refinement of a country house with a sense of calm and intimacy that comes from its natural setting.

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WEDDINGS • VENUES

COLSHAW HALL, PHOTO BY SHANE WEBBER

ARLEY HALL & GARDENS arleyhallandgardens.com

Why it’s special: Historic hall

with extraordinary gardens and seasonal floral displays Arley Hall is renowned for its gardens, which are among the finest in England.

The historic house provides an elegant backdrop, but it is the surrounding grounds that truly define the venue. Seasonal planting ensures that the gardens change throughout the year, offering a vibrant and ever-evolving setting for weddings.

Ceremonies can take place outdoors among the flowers or within the hall itself, while receptions are often held in marquees overlooking the grounds. The combination of architecture and horticulture creates a venue that feels both refined and full of life.

THE OAK TREE OF PEOVER oaktreeofpeover.co.uk

Why it’s special: Charming oak-framed barn

with countryside views and warm rustic feel The Oak Tree of Peover offers a classic barn wedding experience with a strong sense of character. The oak-framed building features high ceilings, exposed beams and large windows that look out across the Cheshire countryside.

This connection to the landscape is a defining feature, creating a setting that feels open and relaxed. Outdoor ceremonies are also possible, making full use of the surrounding fields. Inside, the barn is warm and inviting, easily transitioning from ceremony to reception.

Sandhole Oak Barn is defined by its idyllic lakeside setting. The barn sits beside a private lake, with a wooden jetty often used for outdoor ceremonies. This creates a striking and romantic focal point, particularly during sunset. The barn itself combines rustic charm with thoughtful design, offering a spacious interior for dining and dancing. Large windows ensure that the lake remains a constant presence throughout the celebration. What makes Sandhole Oak Barn stand out is the way it integrates the landscape into every part of the day.

WRENBURY HALL wrenburyhall.co.uk

Why it’s special: Exclusive country house

with romantic gardens and lakeside setting Wrenbury Hall offers a refined and intimate wedding setting within a private country estate near Nantwich. The house itself combines traditional architecture with elegant, light-filled interiors, creating a space that feels both classic and welcoming.

PECKFORTON CASTLE PHOTO BY SHANE WEBBER

One of its most distinctive features is the surrounding grounds, which include landscaped gardens and a picturesque lake that provide a romantic backdrop throughout the day. Ceremonies can take place within the house or outdoors, while receptions are often held in a marquee overlooking the water, allowing the celebration to unfold seamlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces. The venue is available on an exclusive-use basis, giving couples complete privacy and the freedom to shape their day.

MERRYDALE MANOR

SANDHOLE OAK BARN sandholeoakbarn.co.uk

Why it’s special: Picturesque lakeside barn

with jetty ceremonies and scenic views

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Captivating

SIGHTS

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WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP

“This majestic chateau boasts breathtaking views and meticulously manicured gardens”

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hateau Rhianfa stands as an extraordinary wedding venue, encapsulating timeless elegance and enchanting charm within its historic walls. Nestled along the picturesque Menai Strait in North Wales, this majestic chateau boasts breathtaking views and meticulously manicured gardens, creating a stunning backdrop for couples exchanging vows.

The venue’s architectural grandeur, reminiscent of a French fairytale, imparts a romantic ambiance that elevates any wedding celebration. With a range of opulent event spaces, from the lavish banqueting hall to intimate drawing rooms, Chateau Rhianfa offers versatility to accommodate various wedding styles and sizes.

The attentive and professional staff at Chateau Rhianfa ensure that every detail is seamlessly orchestrated, from exquisite catering to personalised decor, contributing to a flawless and memorable wedding experience.

Guests indulge in an opulent setting enhanced by modern amenities, creating an atmosphere of refined indulgence.

Whether exchanging vows in the enchanting gardens or celebrating in the regal

interiors, Chateau Rhianfa’s commitment to excellence transforms each wedding into an unforgettable affair. For couples seeking a perfect blend of romance and sophistication, Chateau Rhianfa emerges as a captivating haven where dreams of a fairytale wedding become a splendid reality.

To find out more head to the website at chateaurhianfa.co.uk or call 01248 880090

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Make it yours

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The new summer wedding: how couples are rewriting the rules B y L I Z TAY L O R

LIZ TAYLOR

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oday’s weddings are less about tradition and far more about experience. Couples are seeking celebrations that feel entirely their own, so here is how the best are brought to life.

Summer weddings have always carried a certain magic. Long evenings, gardens in full bloom and the relaxed joy that only warm weather seems to bring. But while the season itself remains timeless, the way couples are choosing to celebrate has shifted.

The weddings we’re designing today are far less about following tradition for tradition’s sake. They’re about creating something that feels completely personal.

Couples want their guests to step into something memorable, not simply attend a ceremony and reception. The expectation has changed, and rightly so.

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A BARBADOS WEDDING

Destination Celebrations, Near and Far

Destination weddings continue to grow in popularity. Last summer alone, we delivered extraordinary celebrations everywhere from Manchester to London and from the Caribbean to Capri.

What’s clear is that ‘destination’ is no longer defined by distance. It’s about atmosphere, intent and experience.

Italy, the South of France and the Caribbean remain enduring favourites, but we’re also seeing destinationstyle celebrations within the UK, from historic estates and coastal venues to private gardens and country houses.

What’s changing most noticeably is the format. Weddings are no longer confined to a single day. Welcome dinners, relaxed gatherings and farewell brunches allow couples to spend real time with their guests. The location isn’t just the backdrop; it shapes the entire celebration.

TLC Tip

Give guests plenty of notice for destination weddings and build in time for them to explore independently.

The best celebrations strike a balance between hosting and freedom.

Immersive Weddings

One of the most significant shifts is the move towards immersive celebration.

Decorating a room is no longer enough.

Couples want environments that tell a story; through florals, lighting, music and carefully considered food.

Think of it as stepping into a world designed entirely around the couple. A Mediterranean garden dinner beneath olive trees. A glamorous black-tie evening A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HERE AND RIGHT, HOLLY CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

reminiscent of an old Hollywood supper club. When every element works together, the atmosphere becomes something guests don’t see, but genuinely feel.

If the details aren’t working together, the event doesn’t land. When they are, it becomes unforgettable.

softer minimalism of recent years.

Fashion is equally important. Brides are embracing multiple looks throughout the day, while grooms, too, are increasingly experimenting with tailoring and detail.

These choices aren’t just aesthetic.

They set the tone and influence how the entire celebration feels.

TLC Tip

Lighting will transform a space faster than anything else. Get it right and everything else follows.

Weddings That Reflect the Couple

The most important change is how personal they have become. Couples are no longer interested in recreating what they’ve seen elsewhere. They want something that reflects who they are.

This shows up in every detail.

From cocktails inspired by favourite destinations to menus shaped by family traditions, to entertainment that reflects shared passions. When a wedding feels authentic, guests immediately recognise it. Authenticity is the real luxury.

TLC Tip

Identify three things that define you as a couple: travel, music, food or a particular place. Build everything around them.

Statement Styling

Visually, weddings are becoming more confident. Large-scale floral installations, layered tablescapes and richer colour palettes are replacing the

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TLC Tip

Never underestimate the power of a beautifully styled table. Get the details right and the room follows.

Guest Experience Comes First

The weddings people remember are always the ones where guests feel considered.

Not managed. Comfort, flow, timing and energy all matter. From seating and service to music and late-night food, every detail contributes to how the day unfolds.

Summer weddings offer the perfect setting for this. Outdoor drinks, live music and long tables encourage people to relax, connect and stay longer.

After decades of designing weddings, one thing is clear; it’s all about how you make people feel. And when that’s right, everything else falls into place.

For couples looking to create a wedding that feels effortless, personal and unforgettable, the right creative guidance makes all the difference. Liz Taylor is founder of Taylor Lynn Corporation, a leading event and wedding planning company based in Cheshire specialising in luxury celebrations in the UK and internationally. See more at tlc-ltd.co.uk

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The perfect setting... for a magical wedding We love to create truly memorable wedding days. From the moment you arrive to the time you leave as a newly married couple, we’re devoted to making your special day everything you want it to be.

Late availability

January 2026 to March 2027

£5000 for 50 day and 80 evening to include: • Dedicated wedding coordinator • Bridal preparation room including morning pastries and a bottle of prosecco • Complimentary Civil Ceremony room hire • Complimentary menu tasting for 2 • Informal toastmaster and wedding host • Drinks reception – a glass of prosecco per guest and a ‘pimp my prosecco station’ • 3 course wedding breakfast • A glass of wine per guest with their meal • Toast drink – a glass of prosecco per guest • Round tables to seat up to 12 guests • White tablecloths, white linen napkins, glassware, cutlery and china

• Chiavari chairs • Use of cake stand and knife • Use of round mirror plates and tea lights on all tables • Evening reception room hire • Bacon sandwiches for all guests with the option to upgrade to a finger buffet • DJ from 7pm - 1am • Complimentary upgrade to a bridal suite for the night prior and a complimentary bridal suite the night of your wedding Scan the QR code to view our wedding brochure.

For more information, please contact our wedding specialist.

Manchester Road, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 0SU | 01565 650333 | cottonshotel.co.uk

Spa Treatments, created with you in mind...

Make the most of our indulgent spa with a spa experience in Knutsford.

We’ve planned out the perfect itineraries for you to sit back and relax, leaving refreshed and revitalised.

That’s if you ever want to leave at all!

Quote “Absolutely Cheshire” when booking by email at spatreatments@cottonshotel.co.uk or by phone on 01565 622133 to receive 15% off your spa day booking.

Cottons Hotel & Spa Manchester Road, Knutsford, WA16 0SU 01565 650333 | cottonshotel.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

TRUE BLUE CHANEL

Denim, a CHANEL wardrobe essential, becomes a makeup must have in a new, limited-edition collection. Capturing denim's essence and reimagining it as makeup, this is a collection that feels free, intuitive, and universal. chanel.com

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BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare B y PENDLE HARTE

IN THE PINK

REVIEW

YORK TEST

C H A N T E CA I L L E

Quick and easy food allergy testing

Chantecaille’s newest limitededition makeup is the Flamingo collection, with 5% of every piece sold supporting Amazon Conservation Team’s Ancestral Tides program to protect the American Flamingos and their fragile wetland habitat on Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

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chantecaille.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

THE ONE G I E L LY G R E E N Gielly Green’s The One System is a highperformance, streamlined haircare ritual born from decades of salon expertise. The Salon has created a core trio of essentials: One Shampoo, One Conditioner, One Mask - paired with four targeted leave-in boosters that meet well over 80% of hair needs with elegance, precision, and ease.

giellygreen.co.uk

CL E AN M ACHI NE SURI

B-Corp brand Suri’s electric toothbrush uses sonic technology for great performance and is a joy to use for its good looks, four week battery life, handy travel case and magnetic bracket. And now there’s a new colour too: Canyon Sunrise. We are fans.

ould I have a food intolerance? I wasn’t sure. Vague symptoms might appear and disappear, and it’s hard to know what steps to take. So when someone suggested an at-home test, I was sold. What could be simpler? York’s tests arrive quickly with simple and clear instructions, though there’s no getting away from the fact that you do have to draw blood. Still, it’s a simple pinprick and it’s easy to do two at once: the Premium Food Intolerance Test and the Food and Environmental Allergy Test come as a bundle, and they can identify all four types of immunoglobulin.

I send off my samples, and within a few days I receive an intriguing set of results via email. The format is simple, using a traffic light system: red for high reactivity, orange for borderline and green for low. As I suspected, I am showing high reactivity (albeit at the very bottom of the scale) for cow’s milk in the intolerance test – but also for coriander/cumin/dill, which is a surprise. Happily, I have normal reactivity to everything from wheat to walnut, via Sauvignon Blanc.

I’m clear of all allergies, happily, though there is a medium reactivity to horse dander and cockroach.

Well, who wouldn’t react to a cockroach? Fascinating stuff.

YORK TEST Food intolerance and allergy bundle, £230

yorktest.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TOP 5

EVOCATIVE FRAGRANCES FOR THE MONTH OF MAY 1

MAGNOLIA INFINITA A C Q UA D I PA R M A

T H E

S C E N T S P R I N G

O F

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Acqua di Parma has collaborated with Shanghai-based artist Lea Woo for a special limited edition of their Signatures of the Sun fragrance, Magnolia Infinita. It is reimagined through a contemporary visual narrative inspired by the Year of the Horse. acquadiparma.com

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IRIS NEBULA NANCY MEILAND

Iris Nebula is described as a love potion, a warm and velvety mix of luscious white pear and iris butter with intriguing notes of anise, caramel and cedar, plus a violet current, £135. nancymeiland.com

3 2 4

5

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MAGNOLIA ALBA CHLOE

The Atelier des Fleurs collection is designed to be layered, though Magnolia Alba is lovely on its own too. A floral, green fragrance with subtly lemony notes of magnolia, this is feminine, light and full of romance, £231. selfridges.com

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W I L D R O S I N DA L B T Y F R AG R A N C E

This scent indulgence features rose blooms entwined with the juicy sweetness of wild currant, green ivy, and a hint of saffron.

Smouldering woods lend an enigmatic, carnal depth – creating a floral like no other, £225. libertylondon.com

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E AU R O S E D I P T YQ U E

This sophisticated rose combines absolute and extract of damascena and centifolia roses with essence of the firad rose, with its unexpected accents of chamomile and artichoke, £170. diptyqueparis.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Beautifully crafted British kitchens for everyday living BESPOKE KITCHENS | BOOT ROOMS | UTI LI TY ROOMS | PANTRI ES | MEDI A | WHOLE HOME

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INTERIORS

I N TO U C H W I T H N AT U R E Biophilia in the home is the design approach of incorporating natural elements – such as plants, light, water, and organic materials – into living spaces to improve wellbeing, reduce stress, boost mood, and strengthen the human connection to nature in everyday indoor environments. We explore its evolution inside.

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INTERIORS • ART

abstract or textural contemporary work often sits beautifully. In period homes with panelling or ornate detailing, you can either complement the heritage with classical pieces or deliberately contrast it with bold contemporary art for tension and energy.

The key is balance. You want harmony, but you also want personality.

Cheshire interior designer Kunal Trehan on how best to use art in the home

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rt is not an accessory. It is not the final tick on a checklist once the sofa has arrived and the curtains are installed. In truly considered homes, art is the emotional architecture of a space. It tells the story, sets the tempo and gives a home its individuality.

Whether you are styling a contemporary apartment or a period property in Cheshire, how you use art determines whether your interiors feel curated or simply decorated.

Here is what I always consider…

START WITH INTENTION, NOT EMPTY WALLS The biggest mistake I see is people buying art to fill a space rather than to define it. Before choosing anything, ask: What feeling do I want in this room? Is this space for calm, conversation, drama or retreat? Do I want this artwork to lead the design, or complement it?

In luxury projects, we often select a

hero piece first and design the room around it. A striking canvas can influence your colour palette, materials and even lighting direction. When art leads, the result feels cohesive and layered.

SCALE IS EVERYTHING If there is one non-negotiable rule, it is scale. A common error is hanging art that is far too small for the wall it sits on. This instantly makes a room feel fragmented and underwhelming.

Above a sofa or bed, artwork should span roughly two thirds of the furniture width. In rooms with high ceilings, go larger than you think. When in doubt, one oversized piece is more powerful than multiple small ones. Large-scale pieces bring confidence to a space. They feel intentional and architectural.

CONSIDER THE ARCHITECTURE Art should respond to the bones of the building. In a modern, clean-lined home,

WHAT WORKS WHERE? Different rooms benefit from different approaches. Hallways and entrances: this is your first impression. A statement piece here sets the tone for the entire home. I often recommend something confident and expressive, as this space can carry drama.

Living rooms: layering works well.

A large anchor piece above the sofa, paired with smaller sculptural or framed elements elsewhere, prevents the space from feeling one dimensional.

Bedrooms: art should feel calming and immersive. Soft abstracts, tonal palettes and fluid forms work beautifully above a headboard. The goal is serenity, not stimulation.

Dining rooms: these spaces can take bold colour and conversation pieces. Art here should spark interest and interaction.

Home offices: choose something that inspires focus and ambition. Texture and depth work well to avoid visual distraction while still adding sophistication.

THINK BEYOND THE WALL Art does not always need to be hung.

Leaning oversized canvases against walls creates a relaxed, gallery-inspired feel.

Sculptural pieces, ceramics and layered framed works on shelving add dimension.

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surfaces and introduce warmth.

In higher-end homes, we treat art as part of the interior architecture, not separate from it.

COLOUR AND COHESION Art is one of the most effective ways to introduce colour into a home without committing to bold walls or upholstery.

If your interior is neutral, artwork can inject richness – deep blues, burnt orange, earthy greens – without overwhelming the space. However, cohesion matters.

I advise pulling one or two tones from the artwork and subtly echoing them elsewhere in cushions, rugs or accessories.

This repetition creates visual flow.

LIGHTING IS CRUCIAL Beautiful art poorly lit will always underperform. Where possible, use directional wall lights or discreet picture lighting. Avoid harsh overhead glare and consider how natural light hits the piece during the day. In luxury projects, we design lighting schemes specifically around key artworks to ensure they feel elevated, almost gallery-like.

EMOTIONAL VALUE OVER TRENDS Trends move quickly. Good art should

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endure. While scale and placement follow design principles, the piece itself should resonate with you. Art is deeply personal. It should evoke something, a memory, a feeling, a sense of aspiration.

Homes that feel the most refined are not those filled with expensive pieces, but those that feel curated with conviction.

INVEST STRATEGICALLY If you are building a collection, invest in one or two large statement pieces.

Works that anchor primary rooms and art that aligns with your longterm aesthetic rather than current trends. You can confidently be more flexible in secondary spaces such as guest bedrooms or utility areas.

Art is often the detail that differentiates a good interior from a truly exceptional one. A beautifully designed home without art can feel technically impressive yet emotionally flat. When used well, art brings depth, identity and soul. It transforms a house into something that feels entirely yours. And that, ultimately, is the mark of luxury.

Kunal Trehan is an interior designer and founder of Touched Interiors and Casa Maison. See more at touchedinteriors.co.uk

KUNAL TREHAN

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Exploring the rise of biophilia in the home

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n recent years, few ideas have reshaped interior design as profoundly as biophilia. More than a stylistic preference, it signals a deeper cultural shift: a desire to restore a sense of connection to the natural world within increasingly urban, technologydriven lives. By 2026, biophilic design has matured into a sophisticated, multi-layered approach that influences not just how homes look, but how they function, feel and support wellbeing.

EARLY ORIGINS: THE PHILOSOPHY OF BIOPHILIA

The concept of biophilia has its roots in psychology and biology rather than design.

First introduced by psychoanalyst Erich Fromm in the 1960s, the term described an inherent human attraction to life and living systems. It was later developed by biologist Edward O. Wilson, whose “biophilia hypothesis” proposed that this affinity for nature is not merely cultural but biological – a product of human evolution.

This foundation is crucial because it positions biophilia as something more fundamental than an aesthetic trend. It suggests that our relationship with nature is tied to our mental and physical wellbeing.

Yet throughout much of the 20th century, architecture and interiors moved away from this connection. Modernist design, with its emphasis on efficiency, industrial materials and minimal ornamentation, often prioritised function over emotional resonance. Homes became cleaner and more streamlined, but in many cases also more detached from natural rhythms and textures.

Biophilia, when it began to re-emerge, did so partly as a response to this imbalance – a way of reintroducing warmth, variability and life into built environments.

EARLY ADOPTION IN THE HOME

When biophilic ideas first entered interior design, they did so in a relatively literal and accessible way. In residential spaces, this typically meant the introduction of houseplants, natural materials such as timber and stone, and colour palettes

inspired by the earth. Large windows and an emphasis on daylight also became associated with a more “natural” home environment.

At this stage, biophilia was often interpreted visually rather than structurally.

A room might be considered biophilic because it contained greenery or organic textures, even if the overall architecture remained unchanged. This approach gained particular traction during the COVID-19 pandemic, when homes became central to daily life and people sought comfort, calm and a sense of escape within their own walls.

As the concept matured through the mid-2020s, biophilia evolved from a decorative layer into a guiding principle embedded within the design process itself. Rather than being applied at the end of a project, it began to shape decisions from the outset, influencing layout, structure and the relationship between interior and exterior spaces.

One of the most important developments was the integration of natural elements into architecture. Designers increasingly considered how a home could be oriented

to maximise natural light, how internal spaces could open onto gardens or courtyards, and how transitions between indoors and outdoors could feel seamless rather than abrupt. This shift marked a move away from simply “adding” nature to a space, towards designing with nature as a central organising idea.

At the same time, biophilia became closely aligned with the broader wellness movement. Homes were no longer seen purely as functional or aesthetic environments, but as spaces that should actively support mental and physical health.

This led to greater attention being paid to air quality, lighting conditions, acoustics and thermal comfort. The idea of the home as a restorative environment – one that could reduce stress and enhance wellbeing – became increasingly influential.

Sustainability also played a critical role in this evolution. Natural materials were no longer chosen solely for their appearance, but for their environmental impact and longevity. Reclaimed timber, locally sourced stone and low-impact A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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finishes became more desirable, reflecting a growing awareness of the ecological footprint of design choices. In this context, biophilia and sustainability became deeply interconnected, each reinforcing the other.

Perhaps the most significant shift, however, was the move towards a more sensory understanding of space. Designers began to think beyond how interiors look, focusing instead on how they feel. Texture, sound, scent and light all became part of the biophilic experience, creating environments that engage multiple senses and foster a deeper connection to the natural world.

BIOPHILIA IN 2026: A MATURE DESIGN LANGUAGE

By 2026, biophilic design has reached a level of maturity that sets it apart from earlier interpretations. It is no longer defined by obvious gestures or visual cues, but by a more subtle and integrated approach. Nature is not imposed upon the home; it is embedded within it.

At the same time, the sensory dimension of biophilia has become more pronounced.

Materials are chosen not only for their visual qualities but for their tactile richness – linen, wool, raw timber and stone all contribute to a layered sensory experience.

Sound is also considered, whether through the gentle presence of water features or through acoustic design that reduces harsh echoes and creates a more comfortable

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auditory environment. Even scent plays a role, with natural materials and planting contributing subtle, ambient fragrances.

Colour, too, has evolved. The stark whites and cool greys that once dominated contemporary interiors have given way to warmer, more nuanced palettes. Greens, browns, terracottas and soft neutrals are applied in tonal layers, creating depth and a sense of continuity throughout a space. These colours do not simply reference nature; they help to recreate its atmosphere within the home.

Planting remains central, but its use is more deliberate than in earlier phases.

Rather than filling rooms with greenery, designers curate plants carefully, integrating them into joinery or using them to define specific areas. There is a greater emphasis on longevity and appropriateness, with species selected for their ability to thrive in particular conditions rather than for purely decorative impact.

The relationship between indoor and outdoor space has also become more fluid. Advances in architectural design allow for large openings, continuous flooring and adaptable layouts that blur the boundary between inside and outside.

Gardens, terraces and even balconies are treated as extensions of the home, designed with the same level of care and intention as interior spaces. This creates a sense of continuity that reinforces

the biophilic principle of connection.

Another defining aspect of biophilia in 2026 is its alignment with wellbeing.

Homes increasingly include dedicated areas for rest and reflection, whether in the form of spa-like bathrooms, calming bedrooms or quiet corners for reading and meditation. These spaces are designed to support daily rituals and provide a sense of retreat from the demands of modern life.

Interestingly, technology has begun to play a complementary role in this process.

Rather than competing with nature, it is used to enhance the biophilic experience.

Lighting systems that mimic natural daylight cycles, smart climate control and even digital simulations of natural environments all contribute to a more responsive and adaptive home. This represents a nuanced shift, where technology supports human needs without overshadowing the natural elements at the heart of the design.

WHY BIOPHILIA MATTERS NOW

The prominence of biophilia reflects a convergence of broader societal trends.

As urban living becomes more prevalent, access to nature is often limited, increasing the importance of bringing natural elements into the home. At the same time, growing awareness of environmental issues has led to a greater emphasis on sustainable living. Perhaps most significantly, there is an increasing recognition of the importance of mental health and wellbeing, and the role that our surroundings play in shaping our daily experience.

Biophilic design addresses all of these concerns simultaneously. It offers a way of creating homes that feel grounded and restorative, while also being environmentally responsible and adaptable to modern lifestyles. In doing so, it shifts the focus of design away from purely visual or status-driven considerations and towards a more holistic understanding of what makes a space truly liveable.

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INTERIORS • TREND

PHOTOWALL Folk Floral Daisy wallpaper, from £35 photowall.co.uk

ARLO & JACOB Cleo sofa, from £1,100.75 arloandjacob.com

GRAHAM & GREEN Flowers oval enamel tray, £29 grahamandgreen.co.uk

COX & COX Floral ceramic vase, £45 coxandcox.co.uk

OKA Bunched by Oka faux flowers, £POA oka.com

ASPREY Four Seasons Asia spring vase, £10,450 asprey.com

FABULOUS FLORALS EDITOR’S PICK

The enduring appeal of blooming prints

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

MATISA DECO Faustine floral dinner plates, set of six, £57 matisadeco.ie

WALTON & CO Embroidered tropical flowers cushion, £44 alfred-smith.co.uk

GP J BAKER X KIT KEMP Forest Flower wallpaper, £149 kitkemp.com

REX LONDON

THE WISTERIA TREE

Wildflower tea towel, £6.95 rexlondon.com

Blue floral planters, £29.95 thewisteriatree.co.uk

BEAUTIFUL BRASS Floral crest cabinet & drawer handle, £11 beautifulbrass.com

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INTERIORS • TREND

BESSELINK & JONES Flat ring chandelier, from £1,460 besselink.com

JOANNA WOOD Large green Venetian bowl, £180 joannawood.com

CULT FURNITURE Stanmore table lamp, £30 cultfurniture.com

LOAF

GRAHAM & BROWN

Weft y wool banket, £195 loaf.com

SO COSY Ella check blanket, £198 socosy.co.uk

PRETTY GREEN

Sage, emerald or pea – green is the colour of the moment

Laurel leaf stripe curtain fabric, from £103 grahambrown.com

EDITOR’S PICK

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GISELA GRAHAM Stripe balloon vase, £7.49 giselagraham.co.uk

Pine green stripe pillowcase pair, £59 pigletinbed.com

DAALS Minley carver chair, £199.99 daals.co.uk

CULT FURNITURE Cloud chaise sofa, £1295 cultfurniture.com

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E D U C AT I O N

PASSION PROJECTS T HE GRANGE SC HO O L

Finding the joy in being with people who share your passion is at the heart of The Grange School’s Enrichment Programme. Supporting physical and mental wellbeing, it brings you together with people you may never have met, friends you might not have made, and you may find a hobby for life or discover a hidden talent that shapes your future. Most of all you’ll have fun being you! grange.org.uk

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care With Mental Health Awareness Week falling in May, we take a look at how schools are putting their pupils’ wellbeing first

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ental Health Awareness Week, which in 2026 runs from 11th-17th May, has become a significant moment in the UK school calendar and reflects a much broader shift in how schools think about pupil wellbeing.

Today, most schools approach mental health not as an isolated issue, but as something embedded across the whole school experience. This is often described as a “whole-school approach”, where leadership, teaching, pastoral care, and external services all work together to support pupils’ emotional wellbeing. In practice, this means that mental health is now integrated into everyday school life through the curriculum, staff training, and structured support systems.

During Mental Health Awareness Week itself, schools typically organise a range of activities designed to raise awareness and encourage open conversations.

Assemblies often focus on themes such as resilience, belonging, or managing stress, while lessons – particularly within PSHE – explore topics like anxiety, self-esteem, and coping strategies. Many schools take part in national initiatives such as “Wear it Green Day”, alongside running mindfulness sessions, creative arts activities, and sports events that emphasise the link between physical and mental wellbeing.

Increasingly, pupils themselves play an active role, leading peer-support schemes or awareness campaigns that help reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help.

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EDUCATION • MENTAL HEALTH

Beyond this specific week, there has been a marked expansion in everyday mental health provision within schools. It is now common for schools to have a designated mental health lead and, in many areas, access to NHS-supported Mental Health Support Teams. On-site counselling, wellbeing rooms, and early intervention programmes are becoming more widespread, and staff are routinely trained to recognise and respond to mental health concerns. Importantly, there is a cultural shift towards normalising discussion of mental health so that pupils feel able to speak openly about their experiences.

This represents a significant change from earlier decades. Before around 2010, mental health support in schools tended to be limited and reactive. Provision was often focused on behaviour management or triggered only when difficulties became severe enough to require external intervention. There was relatively little emphasis on prevention,

Mental health is now commonly viewed by schools as one of their most important responsibilities and mental health was not widely seen as central to a school’s educational mission.

During the 2010s, however, growing awareness of rising levels of anxiety and other mental health issues among young people began to drive change. Schools started to introduce more structured wellbeing programmes and expand the role of PSHE, while national frameworks and awards began to recognise good practice.

The most substantial transformation has taken place from the late 2010s into the present decade. Government policy and

NHS involvement have helped embed mental health more firmly within the education system, with initiatives such as Mental Health Support Teams and the inclusion of mental wellbeing in the statutory curriculum. As a result, mental health is now widely regarded as a core component of school effectiveness rather than an optional add-on. By 2025 and 2026, it is commonly viewed by schools as one of their most important responsibilities, closely linked to both academic outcomes and overall pupil development.

Across England, a number of schools have developed particularly strong reputations for their approach to pupil mental health. In Cheshire, The Macclesfield Academy, The Grange School, and Sandbach School have been acknowledged for their commitment to creating supportive environments where mental health is prioritised.

Taken together, these developments illustrate a clear evolution in the role of schools. Where mental health was once addressed only when problems arose, it is now actively cultivated as part of a positive school culture.

The emphasis has shifted from reacting to difficulties to building resilience, promoting wellbeing, and ensuring that all pupils are supported to thrive both academically and emotionally.

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EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

Next STEPS

Why Sixth Form boarding? A visit to Rydal Penrhos will answer the question

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ixth Form is an exciting step. Confidence grows, opportunities increase, and young people begin making clear choices about who they want to become. With Sixth Form boarding launching at Rydal Penrhos in September 2026, families are seeing boarding as a real advantage – creating the conditions for pupils to flourish when it matters most.

Sixth Form moves quickly. Subject

demands increase, deadlines come faster, and pupils are asked to manage more while also planning their next steps – university, apprenticeships or the world of work.

Parents ask: which environment will help my child stay focused, confident, well supported and ready for what comes next?

At its best, boarding is about far more than taking away the commute. It brings together opportunity, structure and belonging. A clear weekly routine supports strong habits – steady study, balanced diet, good sleep, evening downtime – and the calm headspace that enables progress and wellbeing. Just as importantly, boarding creates a close-knit community where encouragement is immediate and support is close, both academically and pastorally.

That sense of community matters more than ever. Teenagers are constantly “connected”, yet real connection can be crowded out by online life. Boarding offers shared, real-world experiences day after day: meals together, prep sessions, team training, rehearsals and house activities.

Friendships deepen, confidence strengthens, and pupils feel part of something – with clear benefits for wellbeing.

If there is a stage when boarding makes

the greatest difference, it is Sixth Form.

Pupils are ready to use independence well: taking ownership of learning, organising competing priorities, and building the confidence to advocate for themselves. It is also excellent preparation for their next steps. Managing time responsibly, learning to live well with others, and balancing work with leisure are not “extras”; they are essential skills that support life-long success.

From September 2026, Rydal Penrhos will introduce Sixth Form boarding in New House, a purpose-designed home. It pairs the focus of boarding with what Rydal Penrhos is known for: small class sizes, expert teaching and outstanding pastoral care, so every pupil is both challenged and fully understood. It’s a setting designed to support wellbeing, friendships and progress in equal measure. Boarding also helps pupils make the most of wider school life – sport, performing arts, clubs, outdoor education, trips, leadership and service – because opportunities are on the doorstep, 24 hours a day.

Alongside subject-specialist teaching and tailored support, UCAS and careers guidance helps pupils choose the right pathway for them – from apprenticeships to leading universities, including Oxbridge and the Russell Group.

To find out more, visit rydalpenrhos.com or contact Admissions at admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or 01492 530155 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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LAST WORD • PLACE

why everyone is talking about…

The IVY

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The hospitality heavyweight is opening a new restaurant in Chester

rom Tuesday 28th April, diners in Chester will be able to experience The Ivy’s signature style and seasonal dishes, as the restaurant becomes the 46th addition to The Ivy Collection.

Situated on Newgate Street in the heart of the city centre, The Ivy Chester Brasserie will occupy a prime location within easy reach of Chester’s iconic Rows and bustling retail and hospitality quarter. Designed to complement the city’s distinctive character, from its medieval architecture to its vibrant riverside scene, the new venue promises to offer an elegant yet welcoming space for all-day dining and is set to create over 100 jobs locally.

Boasting a total of 163 covers, the venue will also host an impressive terrace that promises the perfect setting for al fresco breakfasts in the morning sun, relaxed lunches with friends, and atmospheric evening dining under the open sky. The terrace will offer guests the opportunity to linger over cocktails, soak up the ambience and enjoy the seamless flow between indoors and out.

Following a number of successful openings in recent years, the arrival of The Ivy in Chester invites guests to step into a

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space where heritage meets contemporary elegance – a place to linger over beautifully presented dishes, celebrate special moments, and soak up the character of one of Britain’s most architecturally striking cities. Each new opening reflects The Ivy Collection’s commitment to blending heritage, hospitality and contemporary dining, and Chester is no exception.

Guests can expect The Ivy’s much-loved, iconic dishes alongside seasonal specials and carefully curated drinks menus. From breakfast through to late-evening cocktails, the restaurant will deliver the high-quality, accessible dining experience that has defined The Ivy for over 100 years.

The interior design will reflect The Ivy Collection’s signature aesthetic: stylish, comfortable and full of character.

Thoughtful details create a sense of occasion, complemented by local art within the restaurant, creating a space which comes together to recognise Chester’s unique history and distinct character.

Whether meeting for brunch, hosting a business lunch, or enjoying an evening celebration with friends or family, the new Chester restaurant is set to become a dining destination in its own right.

Speaking about the opening, Kate Cooper, Restaurant Operating Officer for the North, says: “The Ivy Chester Brasserie is set to be an incredibly valuable addition to the city’s dining scene. It’s the warmth, pride and unmistakable character of the people of Chester that make the city such a natural home for our next opening. We couldn’t be more excited to offer a vibrant yet relaxed space that reflects the richness of the city, welcoming both residents and visitors alike. Chester already boasts a rich hospitality culture, and we’re proud to become part of that story.” ivycollection.com

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Emma Mackley Private Travel is an independent agency specialising in luxury tailor made holidays.

Over 20 years’ experience and contacts in the luxury travel industry.

Unbiased, honest and friendly advice on all holiday types and destinations.

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Appointments can be made to discuss your travel requirements at a time and place to suit you.

All travel arrangements are made through ATOL bonded tour operators.

Relax and let me do the research, planning and booking for you.

+44 7412 018515 hello@emmamackleytravel.com www.emmamackleytravel.com IBC - FILLER EMMA MACKLEY TRAVEL.indd 99

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