Absolutely South West December 2020

SOUTH WEST

South West DECEMBER 2020 / £3.95

Pet's paradise SPECI A L

Cool dogs for cool homes

Stylish decorations and gifts galore

DECEMBER 2020

FASHION SENSE New looks from Tallulah and Hope

THE BIG

DAY

What to eat, drink and wear

Tinsel

TOWN A R E YO U F E E L I N G F E S T I V E ?

ZEST.LONDON ABS_Dec2020_Cover_PH.indd 8-9

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT 23/11/2020 13:17

gp.indd 20

20/11/2020 15:36

NWF.indd 1

23/10/2020 13:26

SMEG.indd 20

19/11/2020 11:26

ABSOLUTELY

Contents DECEMBER 2020

102

26 8

C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES

10 things we’re coveting this month

12

WHAT'S ON

Your diary for December

18

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL HOME TRENDS How to decorate in style

34 GIFT GUIDE

Everything anyone could possibly want

FOOD & DRINK 56 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry

60 RECIPES

Daylesford Organic's Christmas ideas

72

FA S H I O N Q&A

Design talk with Tallulah and Hope

74

JEWELLERY Celestial shapes

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y 87 MAKE UP

60

Party looks for the season

93 BEAUTY NOTES The best new buys

INTERIORS 98 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS News from the industry

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

101 GET COSY

Warm home comforts

102 A DOG'S LIFE Cool dogs, cool homes

A B S O L U T E LY M A M A 115 MAMAHOOD

32 pages of babies and bumps incorporating Absolutely Mama magazine

O N T H E C OV E R paulaknorr.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Contents_PH.indd 5

5

23/11/2020 15:05

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR ABBIE SCHOFIELD MAMA EDITOR CARLY GLENDINNING ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNER MIKE ROBERTS MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN MEDIA CONSULTANTS JEMMA HAYES, STELLA ADAMS, ANABELA KOLECI BRAND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER NAVINDER LALL MARKETING MANAGER LUCIE PEARCE FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3981 7187 or email: craig@zest-media.com

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588 zest.london

Please sign up to explore.

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.

Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

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

a b s o l u t e l y. l o n d o n

FLANNEL.indd 8

23/11/2020 13:14

YOUR FESTIVE HOME

Are you ready to decorate?

Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S December issue highlights

1

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

Our pick of stylish, beautiful and cute baubles

A

s we go to press, we still don't know what our Christmasses will hold. This time last year, nobody could have imagined the events of 2020 – and in this final month of the strangest year in living memory, we're all feeling confused to say the least.

However, at Absolutely we're choosing optimism. In this Christmas issue we are embracing decorating our homes with a mix of the natural and the garish, because a maximalist approach seems fitting. We are looking forward to eating and drinking with as many people as we are allowed, and in these pages we have gift ideas for everyone. Also in this issue we have a special parenting section, Absolutely Mama, dedicated to pregnancy and babies, full of advice on everything from choosing a buggy to decorating a nursery. Aside from Christmas, we look at all our usual favourite areas of fashion, beauty, food and interiors, making this a very special edition. Here's to ending 2020 on a positive note – and a merry Christmas to all our readers!

5

4 GLAMOROUS SHAPES

Style talk with Tallulah and Hope.

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

2 THE BIG WREATH

Stylish adornment for your door.

3 TABLE TALK

Laying the table for a feast

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ED_LETTER_Dec_2020_PH.indd 7

7

23/11/2020 11:52

Wish LIST

GA M E O N

Mulberry’s first collection of leather accessories was made in Somerset and sold on Portobello Road in 1971. These locations, along with London’s top stylish spots, have been added to this limited edition Monopoly board. £55 mulberry.com

10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

ABBIE SCHOFIELD

8

S TA C K U P Luv AJ was born when founder Amanda Jane Thomas was just 14 years old and her school hobby of jewellery-making soon became a successful business. The 2020 holiday collection is full of luxe sparkles, including stackable chain necklaces and pavé rings designed to be mixed and matched. From $40 luvaj.com

IN THE PINK

SOMETHING NUDE

This crystal button blazer dress

by Mach + Mach oozes '80s extravagance. From the brand that describes itself as 'bright, futuristic, pop', this piece is the fashion medicine we all need right now. £1,065 koibird.com

Create an eye for every occasion with Kevyn Aucoin’s Something Nude palette, exclusive to Harrods. It holds 12 cool and warm eyeshadow shades with matte and shimmery finishes, high pigmentation and a seriously blendable formula. £47 harrods.com

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

ABS_December20_Wishlist.indd 8

23/11/2020 16:43

ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

H O LY H E E L Christian Louboutin's 2020 Christmas collection is the epitome of glamour. Pictured here is the Me in the 90s Boot, £1,125, Elisa Small Bag, £1,690, and Happy Rui Men's Trainer, £545 eu.christianlouboutin.com

S TA R S T R U C K Upgrade your glassware with LSA International’s Space Champagne Flutes. Mouth-blown and handpainted with real gold, this elegant collection was inspired by outer space. £50 for 2; lsa-international.com.

H AT S O F F Isabel Marant’s Denji hat puts a wintery spin on the bucket hat.

Made with a textured white wool blend and comfy cotton lining, this will keep you warm and stylish on those long wintry walks. £240; isabelmarant.com

EDITOR’S PICK

LOV E L E T T E R Nick Cave's online store, Cave Things, sells a collection of curious and quirky items. This notebook shows a letter drawn in 1980 by the musician for his then-girlfriend Anita Lane. £10 cavethings.com

SW E E T ST U F F L’adurée and double Michelin star chef Jean-François Piège have created two limited edition Christmas macarons, the Blanc Manger and the Clementine Saffron Rose. £19.50 for 8 laduree.co.uk

S I L K S TA R S We love luxurious silk sleepwear brand Ginia’s Orion pyjamas, adorned with clusters of white stars and contrast piping. Available from southwest London lingerie specialists Amelie’s Follies. £299 ameliesfollies.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Wishlist.indd 9

9

23/11/2020 16:43

MOL.indd 20

19/11/2020 11:45

C U LT U R E 'A NEIGHBOURLY VISIT TO THE PENGUINS', MICHAŁ KRZYSZTOFOWICZ, FROM EXPOSURE: LIVES AT SEA AT THE NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM

What's on 12 • London's best ice rinks 14 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December 20_Culture_Opener.indd 11

11

20/11/2020 11:03

The Agenda

LO N D O N ’S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

MU S I C

Live from London Until 6 January ONLINE Following the success of its first digital festival which was viewed in over 60 countries, Live from London by the VOCES8 Foundation is back. The internationally renowned line-up will sing everything from Bach to festive pop hits in this Christmas celebration of choral music. voces8.foundation

ERROLLYN WALLEN

WO R KS H O P

Christmas Wreath Class MCQ U E E NS F LOW E R S • 3 , 10, 17 DECEMBER

Perrier-Jouët and McQueens Flower School have teamed up to host a series of Christmas wreath-making workshops at their Mayfair studio, with a 30-minute champagne tasting session.

45-47 Brook Street, W1K 4HR mcqueens.co.uk/school

12

MU S I C

Spitalfields Music Festival 5 December ONLINE You can listen to Spitalfields Festival at home this year, with spectacular performances from Britain’s Got Talent’s Chineke! Junior Orchestra, eight world premieres from female composers and much more. spitalfieldsmusic.org.uk

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

ABS_December20_Culture_Agenda.indd 12

20/11/2020 10:24

CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

A RT

Eye of the Huntress Until 20 January ONLINE A new quarterly online exhibition series has launched, showcasing some of the world’s most exciting contemporary artists in spectacular architectural spaces using advanced CGI technologies. The first group exhibition is Le Petit Trianon, virtually housed in the eponymous San Francisco chateau built in 1904. eyeofthehuntress.com

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS London’s spectacular sparkles

PRETTY PIAZZA C OV E N T G A R D E N Covent Garden’s famed Christmas decor is back with a festive bang.

115,000 lights dazzle across the Piazza and its adjoining streets, making Covent Garden London’s most festive enclave. There is also a huge 60ft British-grown tree decked out in baubles and lights. coventgarden.london

E X H I B I TI O N

EXPOSURE: LIVES AT SEA

From 2 December N AT I O N A L M A R I T I M E M U S E U M In this socially distanced, visuallyled exhibition, photographs taken by people employed in the maritime industry will reveal a snapshot into life at sea today. It will cover isolation and camaraderie, science and survival, climate change and conservation – the lived experience of men and women at sea.

Romney Road, SE10 9NF rmg.co.uk

COVENT GARDEN

WE CAN BE HEROES OXO F R D S T R E E T London’s famous shopping destination’s Christmas lights celebrate the heroes of 2020 who have displayed selfless acts of kindness during the pandemic. You can nominate your own hero, who will win a £500 voucher and see their name in bright lights for a week. oxfordstreet.co.uk

This Month’s Must See

FALLEN BY CEZAR GABRIEL

BRUC E N AU M A N

G

U NTI L 21 FEBRUARY • TATE MODERN

roundbreaking contemporary artist Bruce Nauman continually tests what an artwork can be, reshaping old forms and creating new ones. This is the first showcase of his work in London for more than 20 years, and the featured art can also be viewed online in an exhibition guide.

Bankside, SE1 9TG tate.org.uk

FESTIVE FIRS KING'S CROSS Visitors to King’s Cross and Coal Drops Yard can discover three unique Christmas trees, each delivering an unexpected interpretation of the traditional festive tree. From fairytale forests to multi-coloured installations, have your camera at the ready. kingscross.co.uk

ONE HUNDRED LIVE AND DIE

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Culture_Agenda.indd 13

13

20/11/2020 10:28

CULTURE • SKATING

MUST visit

ROUND UP

GlideON Nothing will get you in the festive spirit like a glittering evening on ice. Here are our top skating spots

HAMPTON COURT PALACE

While not a traditional Tudor pastime, Henry VIII's historic home makes for a beautiful backdrop to your skating session. The Thamesside rink is extra big this year to allow for social distancing, and there’s also a heated café serving warm drinks and sweet treats for après-skate refreshment.

Hampton Court Way, KT8 9AU hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk

By A B B I E S C H O F I E L D THE QUEEN'S HOUSE

QUEEN’S HOUSE

Home to the only outdoor ice rink in south London, Queen’s House in Greenwich is a former royal residence built in the early 1600s. Visitors can skate in the surrounds of the spectacular UNESCO heritage site while admiring a view of the Thames before grabbing a warming hot chocolate from the National Maritime Museum's Parkside Café.

Romney Road, SE10 9NF rmg.co.uk/skate

ALEXANDRA PALACE

The newly-refurbished rink inside this beautiful north London landmark has opened its doors again for the winter period, offering skating sessions on its full-size rink. Everyone from first-timers to seasoned pros are welcome to go for a 60-minute glide, and those looking to improve their skills can join a ‘Learn to Skate’ programme. Don't forget to explore the palace's grounds while you're there.

Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY alexandrapalace.com

QUEENS After working up an appetite on the rink, visitors to Queens can head to American-style diner MeatLiquor and munch on burgers and fried chicken as well as cocktails and boozy shakes.

There’s also a state-of-the-art bowling alley and retro arcade games to continue the competitive fun into the evening.

However, the highlight is the Sin Bin, the UK's first skate-up rinkside bar.

17 Queensway, W2 4PQ queens.london

14

SKYLIGHT Situated on a rooftop in east London, Skylight provides unbeatable views of the cityscape while you skate. But the venue boasts far more than just an ice rink; there’s an igloo village, Feast In The Forest dining experience, spacious Après Ski Lodge bar, OffPiste Speakeasy bar, Christmas market and Christmas Cocktail Cinema Experience — everything you need for a festive day of fun with your bubble.

Tobacco Quay, E1W 2SF skylightlondon.com

ALEXANDRA PALACE SKYLIGHT

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

ABS_December20_Ice Rinks.indd 14

20/11/2020 09:54

RG.indd 20

19/11/2020 11:52

AWARDED DOUBLE GOLD AT THE SAN FRANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION 2018 marylebonegin

CUTLASS.indd 1 Marylebone_210-297.indd 1

22/11/2018 21/11/2018 14:57 16:22

Christmas S

P

Deck the HALLS

ROSE AND GREY

Wreaths aren't just for the front door.

Indoor wreaths are huge this year and we like this simple eucalyptus one from Rose & Grey, £59. roseandgrey.co.uk

E

C

I

A

L

In this sect ion D E C O R A T E Y O U R H O M E 18 T H E T R E E 25 C H R I S T M A S F O O D 31 G I F T S F O R H E R 34 G I F T S F O R H I M 36 S T O C K I N G F I L L E R S 51

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_CHRISTMAS OPENER_USE_PH.indd 17

17

23/11/2020 14:10

IN THE FOLD BROSTE COPENHAGEN

Broste's stylish paper decorations in muted shades set the scene for a stylish Christmas with their sustainable, anti-garish vibe. But if that makes them sound joyless, think again because actually they're pretty, delicate and fun.

From ÂŁ5, heals.com

Christmas at

HOME D E C O R AT E YO U R S PAC E I N S T Y L E

HANG UPS BROSTE COPENHAGEN

No space for a tree? Arrange some pine or fir branches in a vase and hang some fabric decorations from it in. Be sure to use a heavy, decorative vase such as this blue glazed one by Broste Copenhagen. ÂŁ29, atelier-home.co.uk

18

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

ABS_DEC_2020_Christmas home_PH.indd 18

20/11/2020 10:55

CHRISTMAS • HOME

FESTIVE FRAGRANCE

DECK THE HALLS

HABITAT

Habitat's Neutrals theme for Christmas 2020 includes paper decorations and natural colours – but there are glitter accents and metallic shades too. Garlands and candle holders come in all shapes and sizes. habitat.co.uk

F.Y.G

The Frankincense & Myrrh candle creates a warming and earthy vibe. £20, fyghome.com

COCOCHI

Natural soy wax and cruelty-free fragrance make up the range of scents at Cocochi. cocochi.co

STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN HABITAT

Don't forget the banister when decorating the house. Fairy lights winding up the stairs create an invitingly festive feel, and a string of baubles – and even some foilage – can make a humble landing into a festive space. habitat.co.uk

BROWNSTONE

A delicious blend of pine, eucalyptus, citrus and star anise. £28, brownstonelondon.com

LIGHT HOUSE FERM LIVING

Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without any candles. Lighting up every surface with candles in varying shapes and sizes is one of December's great pleasures, and requires its own collection of candle holders. This one from Ferm Living doubles as a bowl for nuts, fruit or decorations. £50, royaldesign.co.uk

SUN.DAY OF LONDON

This Hackney-based brand's Beyond the Pines will transport you straight to Christmas. £26, sundayoflondon.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_DEC_2020_Christmas home_PH.indd 19

19

20/11/2020 10:56

D EC K YO U R H A L L S

FB.indd 1 FLOWERBX-Absolutely-Magazines-Dec19-Artwork.indd 1

11:02 21/11/2019 10:02

CHRISTMAS • BAUBLES LALIQUE Red Christmas Tree, €90 lalique.com

NKUKU Bouka Baubles, £16.95 for 4 nkuku.com

ANTHROPOLOGIE Skiing Poodles, £22 anthropologie.com

RED CANDY Christmas Fry Up Shaped Bauble, £7.50 redcandy.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

DAYLESFORD Beatrice Bee Christmas Ornament, £12 daylesford.com

SWAROVSKI

NEXT Set of 2 Wooden Monogram Baubles, £4 next.co.uk

LIBERTY Christmas at Sea Decoration, £4.95 libertylondon.com

Little Snowflakes, £35 each swarovski.com

FESTIVE BAUBLES Fun ornaments to complete your tree

By PENDLE HARTE

BROSTE COPENHAGEN

HEAVENLY HOMES & GARDENS

COX & COX

Cable Car Baubles, £18.50 for 4 coxandcox.co.uk Popcorn Stand Christmas Bauble, £13 heavenlyhomesandgardens.co.uk

Christmas Tree, £6 brostecopenhagen.com

SOPHIE ALLPORT

ALPHABLOTS

12 Days Of Christmas Milk Maid Felt Decoration, £7 sophieallport.com

Letter Decoration, £7 alphablots.com

THE CONRAN SHOP Pomegranate Decoration, £9.50 theconranshop.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_BaublesUSE_AS.indd 21

21

23/11/2020 14:43

Rebel R ses

Bespoke Faux Flowers RR.indd 2

rebelrosesinfo@gmail.com 07738 064 956 www.rebelroses.co.uk 23/10/2020 13:26

CHRISTMAS • WREATHS

I N T H E R O U N D UP YOUR WREATH GAME FOR 2020

1

RING MY BELL S H I DA

Make your own Scandinavian style indoor wreath using preserved foliage that won’t wilt. With eucalyptus foliage, small preserved flowers and two gorgeous white cotton flowers, this kit comes with a gold wreath ring and full instructions. £36 shida.florist

1

2

ALL TIED UP G R AC E & T H O R N

This DIY kit contains everything you need to make an impressive wreath.

Pine cones, orange slices, lots of foliage and eucalyptus come with a pine base, plus wire and a ribbon for hanging. What better way to spend a winter afternoon? £80; graceandthorn.com

2

3

WHITE XMAS POLLENET

The Pollenet Christmas Wreath is filled with creamy tones and pops of a brozey gold. Made up of dried foliage and two types of preserved flowers, it is built onto a 12 inch gold hoop and comes with a thick satin ribbon. £75; pollenetflowers.co.uk

3

4

'TIS THE SEASON

4

MCQUEENS

The Noella wreath celebrates the classic ingredients of the season. Eucalyptus, pine cones and oranges plus highlights of ruby-red Ilex berries and deepcrimson hydrangeas infuse this festive creation with warmth. £150 mcqueens.co.uk

5

V I D EO S TA R S WMD

5

Wreath Making Delivered offers complete kits to create beautiful hand crafted wreaths at home.

Instructional videos help you create classic favourites and unique on-trend creations. wreathmakingdelivered.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_DEC_2020_ WREATHS_PH.indd 23

23

20/11/2020 12:18

Seasonal flowers from local growers

Specialising in arrangements for weddings, events and installations. h e l l o @ u l t ra m a r i n e f l owe r s .c o m

ULTRAMARINE.indd 2

|

w w w.u l t ra m a r i n e f l o we r s .c o m

07/02/2020 10:26

CHRISTMAS • TREES

1

1

ONE CLICK

S H O O T S & L E AV E S

T O P T R E E S ALL THE FINEST FIRS FOR CHRISTMAS

Shoots and Leaves' hand-picked Christmas trees come in all shapes and sizes – and they'll even deliver and decorate if you like. Order online in advance or choose your own tree at four west London locations. chritmastrees.london

2

FAUX F I R I DY L L H O M E

No need for a real tree? this artificial potted Christmas tree with battery-operated string lights is perfect for smaller spaces or as a central table top decoration for Christmas dinner. £59 idyllhome.com

2

3

TA R TA N T R E E PINES & NEEDLES

3

Pines and Needles was founded by brothers Josh and Sam Lyle in 1995. After a few years the kilted crew grew in size and in 2016, the company hit the headlines for supplying a tree to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Now there are stalls over London. pinesandneedles.com

4

S T R O N G R O OT S

4

GREEN ELF

Green Elf Trees is hiring out-ofwork musicians and members of the entertainment industry to deliver their beautiful and sustainably sourced British Christmas trees. Order online and they'll donate to your chosen charity. greenelft rees.co.uk

5

T I N Y L E AV E S BLOOM & WILD

5

This tiny letterbox Christmas tree comes with a sparkling star garland, little baubles, fairy lights and a pop-up pot. And best of all, it can be replanted and loved long after Christmas. £33 bloomandwild.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_XMAS TREES_PH.indd 25

25

20/11/2020 12:53

NORDIC STYLE BROSTE COPENHAGEN

Style your table the Scandi way with organic linens and textured ceramics, alongside natural embellishments of pine cones and fir. Add smoked glass goblets and lots of candles for the full effect. brostecopnhagen.com

Lunch

LO O KS D E C O R AT E YO U R TA B L E I N S T Y L E

IN THE DETAIL SHIDA

Shida's beautifully adorned handmade mini wreaths make the perfect addition to your table. Pair with linen napkins to create a beautiful, natural tablescape for your celebrations. Available in a choice of colour palettes to match your décor. £32 for four, shida.florist

26

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

ABS_DEC_2020_Christmas Table_PH.indd 26

23/11/2020 12:17

CHRISTMAS • TABLE

THE TOAST: GLASSES

GO MINIMAL

FERM LIVING

Danish design brand Ferm Living's Christmas focus is pared back, minimal and definitely glitter-free. The focus is on candles in a variety of holders to create a simple, earthy neutral look with a subtle yet magical atmosphere. fermliving.com

THE VINTAGE LIST

A traditional bowl shape with fine stem and stylish etchings, £12.50 thevintagelist.co.uk

RED CANDY

Peacock champagne saucer, £26 for two redcandy.co.uk

RED HOT DAYLESFORD

Daylesford's adorable decorations are made by the ARKE Foundation in India, while a new range of bright red tablecloths and napkins in 100% washed linen create a sense of occasion. daylesford.com NKUKU

Mila glasses, set of four £39 nkuku.com

COUNTRY TABLE THYME

Cotswolds retreat Thyme’s new collection of French linen tableware features three prints designed and hand-drawn by the hotel's founder Caryn Hibbert, inspired

by Thyme’s gardens. Ceramic artist and fashion guru Deborah Brett has created some limited-edition pieces to go with them, adding up to a super stylish spread. thyme.co.uk

GARDEN TRADING Berkeley glasses, £28 for a set of four.

gardentrading.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_DEC_2020_Christmas Table_PH.indd 27

27

23/11/2020 12:17

Rare Citrus is here.

Cue not-so-silent fanfare.

Today, we’re making a big noise about our new, rare citrus gin. Shouting about how we sourced the World’s most aromatic fruit. Making loud claims about its entirely natural production. And going on about its exquisite aromatic taste. All in our usual, over-the-top manner.

Make your own citrus discovery at silentpoolgin.com

@silentpoolgin #rarecitrus SP.indd 1

23/10/2020 16:03

FOOD & DRINK • CHRISTMAS THE BOTANIST Islay Dry Gin, £34 thebotanist.com

CHAPEL DOWN English Rose, £30 chapeldown.com

BRUNO PAILLARD Première Cuvée, £39.80 hedonism.co.uk

PALE FOX Wild Strawberry Spritz Kit, £44.95 palefoxprosecco.com

REDBREAST 12 Year Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, £40 waitrose.com

LU D LOW G I N Four luxury 13" crackers, each containing 5cl miniatures of a classic range of gins. Ludlow's handcrafted crackers are presented in kraft card, hand-tied with copper ribbon and also containing a premium hat, placecard, and joke. £35.99 ludlowgin.co.uk

XXXXXXXXXXX xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx DELLA VITE

xxxxxxxxxxxxxx £xxxx Prosecco Superiore xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx DOCG, £25.99 selfridges.com

FESTIVE TIPPLES

From celebratory bubbles to warming spirits, here's what to drink this Christmas

LA FIORITA Rosso di Montalcino 2018, £29.80 hedonism.co.uk

HAYMAN'S Gift-wrapped Gin, £28 haymansgin.com

By A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

CÎROC

EDITOR’S PICK

Black Raspberry Vodka, £35.90 amazon.co.uk

BERRY BROS & RUDD The King's Ginger, £23.50 bbr.com

NO. 3 London Dry Gin with Gift Box, £39 bbr.com

KEW GIN Botanical Gin, £35 shop.kew.org

MIRABEAU Rosé Gin, £35 waitrose.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_CHRISTMAS DRINKS (Conflicted copy from Michael Roberts’s iMac on 2020-11-20).indd 29

29

23/11/2020 14:07

CUTLASS.indd 2 WHITLEYNEILL-range_297-210.indd 1

22/11/2018 12/11/2018 14:57 14:13

CHRISTMAS • FOOD

1 1

SMOKE HOUSE S M O K E S TA K

Smokestak chef and founder David Carter will be firing up his woodfired smoker for the festive season and offering Christmas specials such as whole smoked turkey and whole smoked goosnargh duck, for delivery throughout December. smokestakshop.co.uk

A L L T H E T R I M M I N G S ALL YOUR CHRISTMAS LUNCH NEEDS FULFILLED

2

IT' S A WRAP FA R M I S O N & C O

Farmison's Christmas dinner trimmings range from pigs in blankets to an array of stuffings and all of them have been months in development by Michelin Star Executive Chef, Jeff Baker. Yum. farmison.com

2

3

BEST BIRDS C O PA S

Copas combines the very best, centuries-old production methods with state-of-the-art facilities, exceeding all farm assurances schemes and welfare standards.

That's why their Bronze turkeys are the best you can buy. copasturkeys.co.uk

3

4

B OX F R E S H MORTONS

5

Order a large Christmas hamper and you'll get everything you need to feed 12, including a 6kg Freerange Norfolk Bronze Turkey, a whole side smoked salmon, 24 Pigs in blankets, a Christmas pudding and much more. ÂŁ190 mortonsfarm.co.uk

5

LO C A L D E L I V E RY CLARKE'S

4

Sally Clarke's fabulous roasted bronze-legged turkeys will be winging their way to your door by ecofleet drivers, alongside home-made cranberry sauce, baked pumpkin, delicious pecan tarts and much more. sallyclarke.com/shop

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_CHRISTMAS FOOD_PH.indd 31

31

20/11/2020 10:52

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 1

20/11/2020 14:08

CHRISTMAS • CRACKERS

1

G O L D E N AG E

O N

T H E P U L L

ABSOLUTELY'S FAVOURITE CRACKERS

1

ROCKETT ST GEORGE

The glamorous gold star luxury crackers are filled with chic pouch bags with unique funky slogans on the front, along with gold paper hats and cheeky jokes for those who love a bit of sweary humour. £38 for six. rockettstgeorge.co.uk

2

GREEN FLASH NANCY AND BETTY

Nancy and Betty's recyclable crackers (apart from the bows – use them for crafting) contain plastic-free gifts. Also inside is a silver paper crown and a joke.

Even the box is recyclable, with no plastic window. £36 for six. nancyandbetty.com

3

3

WEST END

FORTNUM AND MASON

Fortnum's super stylish Piccadilly crackers have a foodie theme – each contains a recipe from the Fortnum's cookbook, paired with a miniature kitchen utensil to use while you make it. There's a hat and a joke too, naturally. £60 for six. fortnumandmason.com

2

4

4

5

S M A L L J OYS MISSOMA

The ultimate luxury cracker, Missoma's version contains a pair of earrings for each lucky winner. And the set of four is a bargain at £145, since its contents are worth £240. Get cracking. uk.missoma.com

5

PA P E R P L AY

CA MBR IDGE I MPR I N T

These limited edition Cambridge Imprint patterned paper crackers contain genuinely desirable gifts. Theres's a notebook; a packet of origami papers, a glass ornament and more. £39 for six. cambridgeimprint.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Crackers_PH.indd 33

33

20/11/2020 11:02

AMELIE'S FOLLIES Summer by Prima Donna Bra, £93; Knickers, £60 ameliesfollies.co.uk

S WA R O V S K I The Crystal Flower Watch with a metal bracelet in rose gold is adorned with glittering crystals.

Inspired by flowers, this feminine timepiece will win you brownie points on Christmas Day. £299 swarovski.com

EDITOR’S PICK JESSICA RUSSELL FLINT Panimal High Neck Top, £165 jessicarussellflint.co.uk

VALENTINO

Rockstud Spike Shoulder Bag, £3,015 net-a-porter.com

Gifts for

ATLAS ACCESSORIES Recycled 14k Gold Ingot Bracelet with African Kudu Leather, £1,965 atlasaccessories.com

HER Treats for under the tree that she'll love

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

NEOM Real Luxury 3-wick Candle, £46 neomorganics.com

REJINA PYO Myra Printed Floral Dress, £695 libertylondon.com

LAURENCE KING 100 Years of Fashion Book, £24.95 laurenceking.com

FLEXARS The Original Flexars Leggings, £59.99 each flexars.com

THE EYE PLACE Dior Sorealo Glasses in Rose Gold, £360 the-eye-place.co.uk

34

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

ABS_December20_For Her.indd 34

23/11/2020 12:51

CHRISTMAS • GIFTS AESSAI

JO LOVES

Palermo Poncho, £409 matchesfashion.com

Pomelo Christmas Bauble, £40 joloves.com

TOM FORD Lost Cherry Fragrance, £228 Atomizer £56 tomford.co.uk

MARC ELLA LONDON Monty Bag in Black, £325 marcellalondon.com

MICHAEL PLATT GANNI Organza Collar, £65 ganni.com

Pink Tourmaline, Peridot & Diamond Ring, £1,195 Earrings, £1,300 michaelplatt.co.uk

LOVE MY READ Book Subscription, £49 for 3 months lovemyread.com

GYM CLOTHING CO Bloom Sports Bra in Bubble Gum Pink £37.99; Leggings, £41.99 gymclothingco.com

MONDO MONDO Heart Charm Necklace, €325 mondo-mondo.com

SKINFLUENCER These Zo Skin Health pads remove oil, help smooth theXXXXXXXXX skin’s surface and reduce irritation. Deadxxxxxxxxxx, skin cells, dirt oil are £xxand ; removed fromxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx the pores while salicylic acid provides an effetive treatment against acne. The pads also have a blissful cooling agent to the soothe skin. £55 skin-fluencer.com

SCOTCH SODA Leopard Gloves, £89.95 scotch-soda.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_For Her.indd 35

35

23/11/2020 12:52

GUY MORGAN Dagger Rose Face Oil, £45 guy-morgan.com

HEATH Grooming Gift Set with Wash Bag, £110 fortnumandmason.com

TOM FORD Noir Extreme Fragrance and Travel Spray, £120 tomford.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

JAEGER-LECOULTRE Rendez-Vous Night & Day Watch, £11,100 net-a-porter.com

Gifts for

SUBLIME Cashmere Beanie, £100 couvertureandthegarbstore.com

HIM

Stylish present inspiration for the men in your life

GYM CLOTHING CO

DASHEL

Ghost Gym Tee and Shorts in Blue Shadow, £26.99 each gymclothingco.com

Urban Cycle Helmet in Sky Blue, £79 dashel.co.uk

LOEWE Scented Candle, £145 libertylondon.com

36

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

ABS_December20_GIFTS FOR HIM.indd 36

23/11/2020 13:01

CHRISTMAS • GIFTS TM LEWIN Max Cool Slim Fit Shirt, £44.95 tmlewin.co.uk

MISSOMA Gold Round Curb Bracelet, £159 uk.missoma.com

AESOP Moroccan Neroli Shaving Serum, £23 Shaving Brush, £43 aesop.com

ISABEL MARANT Florens Scarf, £480 isabelmarant.com

KAPITAL Wool Smilie Socks, £35 couvertureandthegarbstore.com

ATLAS ACCESSORIES Sterling Silver Aeon Bracelet with English Bridle Leather, £195 atlasaccessories.com

HARRY'S X TOM DIXON Black Razor, £45 harrys.com

NOT ANOTHER BILL Leather Games Box, £65 notanotherbill.com

THE MINCING MOCKINGBIRD Notebook, £20 couvertureandthegarbstore.com

UNIQLO X JW ANDERSON THE EYE PLACE

Double Faced Duffel Coat, £129.90 uniqlo.com

Thom Brown TB807 Glasses, £510 the-eye-place.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_GIFTS FOR HIM.indd 37

37

23/11/2020 13:04

ORIGINAL, LIMITED-EDITION ART DECO POSTERS

97 x 65 cm. Priced at £395 each.

Private commissions are also welcome.

@pullmaneditionsposters

Our central London gallery All images and text copyright © Pullman Editions Ltd. 2020

View and buy online at w w w.pullmaneditions.com PULLMAN.indd 20 Magazine.indd 1 Pullman Ed-Absolutely

19/11/2020 10:31 11:50 10/11/2020

CHRISTMAS • GIFTS

GA L E R I E PRINTS If you can't find a suitable gift from Galerie Prints' vast selection of iconic photographs and fine art photography prints then you're not looking properly.

Signed Bardot print by Terry O'Neill available in various sizes, POA galerieprints.com

EDITOR’S PICK

PHAIDON Life Meets Art by Sam Lubell, £39 phaidon.com

SMEG Smeg's stylish and user-friendly espresso machine makes a great gift for lovers of coffee as well as lovers of 50s design. It comes in a range of candy colours. £319 smeguk.com

ARKITAIP Shoopy studio matches, arkitaip.com

CRAIG & KARL X AMBAR Crag and Karl throw, £345 ambarliving.com

Gifts for

ANTHROPOLOGIE Grecian bust pot, £18 anthropologie.com

HOMES Presents for stylish interiors

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

KD LOVES KD X Guy Allen Ladybird original etching with Kelling Red, £550 kdloves.com

HABITAT Bia woven planter, £45 habitat.co.uk

J A PA N A H O M E Sakai Kyuba x Japana's kitchen knife set is designed for home cooks to intensify pleasure from cooking and the three knives: chef’s, vegetable and paring knife are everything you need. £650 japanahome.com

AESOP Aromatique candle, £80 aesop.com

LIBERTY Artichoke pitcher, £45 libertylondon.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_HOME GIFTS_PH.indd 39

39

23/11/2020 13:10

THE ART OF GIVING You can book or buy directly from my curated list of reliable London services and interesting ďŹ nds at competitive prices. This list will save you time and money when you need to book a service or buy a gift now.

All services have been personally tried and tested and made sure they are priced fairly and negotiated discounts when possible.

Shop now at almostessential.com +44 (0) 207 183 8088 michedeb@almostessential.com

ALMOST ESSENTUAL.indd 1

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 2

19/11/2020 13:05

20/11/2020 14:08

CHRISTMAS • HAMPERS LINA STORES Il Natale Di Lusso hamper, £250; linastores.co.uk

HARVEY NICHOLS Champagne breakfast hamper, £85; harveynichols.com

EDITOR’S PICK COLETTE Christmas afternoon tea hamper, £180 colette.co.uk

OTTOLENGHI The Ottolenghi Christmas Hamper, £150 ottolenghi.co.uk

HECKFIELD PLACE A little box of Heckfield, £350 heckfieldplace.com

GAIL'S Christmas hamper, £150 gailsbread.co.uk

GOODIE BAG S MELROSE AND MORGAN Bespoke hampers, from £50 melroseandmorgan.com

All the best hampers this Christmas

SELFRIDGES Classic alcohol-free hamper, £120 selfridges.com

By PENDLE HARTE

FORTNUM & MASON The Merrymaker's Hamper, £60 fortnumandmason.com

PASSIONE VINO The Platinum Experience Box, £325 passionevino.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Hampers_PH.indd 41

41

23/11/2020 14:28

JAPANA.indd 20

16/11/2020 13:48

CHRISTMAS • GIFTS SELFRIDGES Honeycomb Coal, £8.99 selfridges.com

RITA FARHI Bombonniere, £15 farhi.co.uk

SMEG Coffee Grinder in Cream, £199.95 shop.smeguk.com

THE CONRAN SHOP Chicken Soup Tree Decoration, £24 conranshop.com

WHOLE FOODS Chestnut Panettone, £14.99 wholefoodsmarket.co.uk

SILENT POOL Rare Citrus Gin, £37 silentpoolgin.com

THE CONRAN SHOP Hydro Herb Kit, £20 conranshop.co.uk

CARLUCCIO'S Pandoro, £17.95 carluccios.com

Gifts for

FOODIES EDITOR’S PICK

Festive goodies to satisfy any food lover

By A B B I E S C H O F I E L D GRIND

House Blend Tin, £9 grind.co.uk

LIBERTY All-Butter Shortbread Biscuits, £9 libertylondon.com

PASTA REMOLI

BISCUITEERS Happy Christmas Biscuit Tin, £35 biscuiteers.com

LSA INTERNATIONAL

Restaurant Voucher & Christmas Box, £100 pastaremoli.co.uk

Whisky Club Collection, £375 lsa-international.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_FOOD GIFTS.indd 43

43

20/11/2020 11:49

SNÜZPOUCH SLEEPING BAG, FROM £29.95 EACH

EDITOR’S PICK

MORE SNÜZ-ING the ultimate gift

A SNÜZCLOUD BABY SLEEP AID, £29.95

44

t the top of any new parent’s Christmas list will undoubtedly be more sleep! So, why not prepare to fill some stockings for your favourite parents and parents-to-be with the gift of silent nights and yuletide yawns.

Gift the dreamiest sleepy setting with SnüzCloud, the super sweet baby sleep aid that promises the ZZZ’s that every parent needs! With super soft plush fabric, four soothing sounds and two light options; the cute and cuddly sleep aid will help comfort and settle baby day and night – it’s a must!

Your gift could also help with the dreaded night-time nappy changes! Despite delicate and drowsy attempts to remove layers in a dimly lit crib or cot, baby gets roused out of an otherwise peaceful slumber, and mum and/or dad face hours of unrest for the night ahead. Enter SnüzPouch, an award-winning baby sleeping bag with a genius nappy change zip to limit all disturbances for babies (and parents)! Available in a range of stylish designs, bedtime couldn’t get any cosier (or more convenient)!

The gift of sleep – it’s what every parent wants! snuz.co.uk

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

ABS_Dec20_Adv_Snüz_Half_Page_CG.indd 44

20/11/2020 16:20

CHRISTMAS • GIFTS

LUCY & YAK Easton Denim Dungarees in Midwash Denim, £65 lucyandyak.com

ASHOKA PARIS Pamela Vegan Leather Bag, £245 immaculatevegan.com

EDITOR’S PICK

BAMFORD Fig Willow Diffuser, £58 alittlefind.com

PALE FOX Wild Strawberry Spritz Kit, £44.95 palefoxprosecco.com

BRUSHD Toothpaste Tablets, £4.99 brushd.co.uk

CRU KAFE

ECO GIFTS

Democratic Republic of Congo Capsules, £15 crukafe.com

LIBERTY Leontine Print Bamboo Takeaway Coffee Cup, £20 libertylondon.com

FABLE Stainless Steel Drinks Bottle in Blush Pink, £30 fableyoga.com

Sustainable brands for a more conscious Christmas

OLIVIA & PEARL Starlet Ear Climber, £80 oliviaandpearl.com

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

VEJA Metallic Trimmed Leather Sneakers, £125 net-a-porter.com

CHLOE X UNICEF T-shirt, £280 net-a-porter.com

SANA JARDIN Tiger By Her Side Eau de Parfum, £80.75 sanajardin.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_SUSTAINABLE GIFTS (Conflicted copy from zestmedia's iMac on 2020-11-20).indd 45

45

23/11/2020 14:14

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 3

20/11/2020 15:34

CHRISTMAS • GIFTS SQUISH Flower Power Acne Patches, £18 libertylondon.com

SKULLCANDY X COLLINA STRADA Crusher Evo Headphones, £149.99 skullcandy.co.uk

SPOTS AND STRIPES The Boarding School Bundle, £75 spots-and-stripes.com

LEFRIK Scout Mini Metal Hook Backpack, £37 lefrik.com

THE TIK TOK CHALLENGE

CARTILAGE CARTEL Spiked hoop drops, £30 cartilagecartel.com

Card Game, £12.99 waterstones.com

ATLAS ACCESSORIES Organic Plant Fibre Recycled Sterling Silver Bracelet, £179 atlasaccessories.com

Gifts for

PANGAIA Recycled Cotton Hoodie, £131 thepangaia.com

TEENS

AMAZON

Echo Dot Smark Speaker, £38.99 amazon.co.uk

Even the most hard-to-buy-for teens will enjoy these goodies

By PENDLE HARTE

EASTPAK Stranger Things 80s Bumbag, £40 eastpak.com

CLOUD NINE Gift of Gold Hair Iron, £169 cloudninehair.com

NOT ANOTHER BILL iPhone Wallet with Chain, £15 notanotherbill.com

EDITOR’S PICK

Q+A Skincare Cracker, £6.50 qandaskincare.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_TEEN GIFTS (Conflicted copy from zestmedia's iMac on 2020-11-20).indd 47

47

23/11/2020 12:46

REMASTERING R E M A S T E R I NTGH E H O M E CRI N EM AA S TEEX RPI N EM EG RIENCE T HSOTMEER ICNIG N E M A E X P ETRHI E NHCOEM E C I N E M A E X P E R I E N C E RH EE MA T H E H O M E CThe I N Ecustomisable M A E X P E R home I E N Ccinema E experience delivers vivid

The customisable homeclarity, cinema experience vivid The home cinema sound. experience d image and a customisable superiordelivers range of dynamic

image clarity, and a superior of dynamic sound. image clarity, and a superior range of dynam The customisable home cinema experience delivers vivid Flexibility to range build and expand your system over time.

Flexibility to build expand system over time.

Flexibility to build expand your system image clarity, and aand superior of dynamic sound.

Experience it range atyour your local Bang & and Olufsen store.

Experience at your local Bangyour & Olufsen Experience itover at your Flexibility toit build and expand systemstore. time.local Bang & Olufsen s Experience it at your local Bang & Olufsen store.

BANG & OLUFSEN OF EALING B A N G & O L U F S E1N OO F NED A LSITNRGE E B 7 B T ,ALNO , W PF E A L I N G GN&D O ON LU F S5E 5 NAO 1B7ABNO SL TU RF ES EE T0N , 2L0 OF D4A O 8N8E 0LNI1,N 0W 1G05 157ABPO N D S T R E E T , L O N D O N , W 5 5 A P GN&D O O 0 8N 84 N G5-0O L0P U8 F8S4 E0 N .1C0O 1 0. U K 1 72 0 BO D0S1T0R1 0 E E TE,ALLOI N NG D@ OB NA , W 52A E LIN G4@0B1A 0A 20 88 0N 1 0G - O L U F S E N . C O . U KE A L I N G @ B A N G - O L U F S E N . C O . U K EALING@BANG-OLUFSEN.CO.UK BO.indd 1

BO.indd 1

18/11/2020 16:57

22/0

CHRISTMAS • TECH

1 1

GO FOR GOLD

BA NG & OLUFSEN, EALING

H I G H T E C H FIVE GIFTS FOR GADGET LOVERS

The Beoplay H95 headphones with Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation offer exceptional sound quality through customised titanium drivers. Expertly crafted using premium materials, this is the perfect gift for audiophiles. £700 bang-olufsen.com

2

S O U N D WAV E B R AU N

LE is a series of three premium Hi-Fi speakers by Braun, delivering beautifully dispersed sound stage. Sleek and minimal, the LE01 can also be connected to a floor stand and displayed in landscape or portrait. £1,099 braun-audio.com

2

3

BOOKED UP

3

KINDLE

Amazon have released the Kindle Paperweight in a number of new colours, including this muted Sage. With a six-inch screen and adjustable light, you can also pair your device with Audible to listen to your books. From £119.99 amazon.co.uk

4

R A D I O G AG A

4

R UA R K

14 years since the first R1 radio, Ruark's new R1 Mk4 Deluxe Bluetooth Radio allows you to stream ultra-high quality sound from your phone or computer. Pleasing to the eye and ear, it's available in Light Cream or Espresso. £229.99 ruarkaudio.com

5

FULL STEAM ST E A M E RY

5

Reluctant ironers will love Stockholm-based Steamery's Cirrus No.2 clothes steamer which smoothes wrinkles, reduces odour and removes shallow dirt. Handheld and portable, it comes in six shades including this delicate pink. £110 steamery.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_TECH GIFTS.indd 49

49

23/11/2020 12:42

MAGNUM.indd 1

13/02/2020 17:21

CHRISTMAS • GIFTS

NATURAL DEODORANT CO Orange & Bergamot Deodorant Balm, £4; naturaldeoco.com

LIBERTY Cotton Eye Mask, £45 libertylondon.com

GLOVED BY TOM DAXON Cedarwood Hand Sanitiser, £25 gloved.co.uk

MULBERRY Notebooks, £20 for 3 mulberry.com

LANSON

LOUISE KENNEDY

Le Rosé Mini, £19.99 waitrose.com

Fabergé Egg Candle, £75 louisekennedy.com

SCREAM PRETTY Mix Tape Huggie Hoop Earrings, £60 screampretty.com

DIVINE

QUINTON

Chocolate Bauble, £6.49 wholefoodsmarket.co.uk

Fingerless Knitted Gloves, £40; libertylondon.com

HUSH Backgammon Game, £45 hush-uk.com

STOCKING FILLERS

GUCCI Cotton Blend Socks, £90 net-a-porter.com

DIPTYQUE Sapin de Nuit Candle, £32 net-a-porter.com

Playful keepsakes and useful trinkets to unwrap

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

EDITOR’S PICK

WHOLE FOODS

CHARBONNEL ET WALKER

Hangover Comforter, £1.99 wholefoodsmarket.co.uk

Heart Truffles, £6.50 notanotherbill.com

FERN FANS Rainbow Fan in Berry Pink, £80 fernfans.com

KOJIS Nutcracker Charm, £295 libertylondon.com

LAURENCE KING Do You Look Like Your Cat? Game, £14.99 laurenceking.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_STOCKING FILLERS.indd 51

51

23/11/2020 14:21

Located in the heart of Mayfair, Hedonism Wines is an amazing fine wine & rare spirits boutique & the most talked about wine project of recent times.

With over 3,000 spirits & 6,500 wines from the around the World Hedonism is the place to find the perfect hedonistic gift for a friend or loved one.

There are always 48 exquisite fine wines available to taste, our tasting cards make a great gift or you can arrange a tutored tasting with one of our expert sommeliers.

We offer friendly, knowledgeable service with free delivery within 1 hour in Central London plus quick & efficient shipping to the rest of the UK & many worldwide destinations.

We look forward to welcoming you to Hedonism Wines!

OPENING TIMES Monday – Saturday 10am – 9pm Sunday 12pm – 6pm 3-7 Davies St London W1K 3LD +44 (0) 207 290 7870

HEDONISM.indd 1

drink@hedonism.co.uk

hedonism.co.uk

22/11/2019 14:48

CHRISTMAS • PARTNERSHIP

P U P P Y L O V E FIVE OF THE BEST GIFTS FOR DOGS

1

WA L K T H E WA L K FA B R I C R A N G E

Barc London's adjustable fabric leads, collars and harnesses come in three colour combinations, made from high quality, soft nylon.

There's also a quick-release buckle; comfortable for your dog, and convenient for you. From £18

2

G O F E TC H

1

T OY S

Soft enough for the smaller breeds to squeak but strong enough for larger breeds to tug, playful dogs will love this toy range that comes in five colourful shapes. Choose from an ice cream, skull, gummy bear, balloon dog and pineapple. £13

2

3

CLIP ART

V E R S AT I L E L E A D

3

This clever lead can be adjusted to short, medium or long walking length thanks to a double-ended heavy duty clip. Suitable for all occasions from normal walking to heel training, it's sturdy and secure yet soft on your hands. £60

4

P L AY B A L L TENNIS BALLS

4

5

We may have missed out on Wimbledon this year, but Barc London have given the humble tennis ball a chic makeover.

Irresistable to every hound, the balls squeak when squeezed and boast Barc's adorable logo. £3.60

5

D O G DAYS

V E G A N L E AT H E R R A N G E

This cruelty-free range of collars and leads is made of strong microfiber vegan leather that is soft against your pup's fur. Available in a range of charming colours, we love the timeless Ash Grey.

Collar and lead set from £85

B A R C LO N D O N @barclondon barclondon.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_ADV_Barc London.indd 53

53

20/11/2020 09:57

LC.indd 20

20/11/2020 11:55

FOOD & DRINK

FESTIVE SPIRIT SILENT POOL GIN

Surrey-based distillers Silent Pool's new Rare Citrus Gin combines bright zest with subtle spice. The perfect present for gin-lovers, you'll probably end up gifting one to yourself too. silentpoolgin.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Food notes 56 • Recipes 60 • Drinks 65 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_FOOD OPENER.indd 55

55

20/11/2020 11:16

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this month

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

B y s a l ly c l a r k e

Pinot Noir  £19.25 Sally Clarke's own label 100% Pinot Noir is strawberry fruited with a creamy texture. This juicy red is joyously ripe with a good deal of cool climate finesse. It tastes fantastic alongside poultry or meats, but also gorgeous with a cheeseboard.

Verona Rosé  £17.25 Clarke's first ever own label wine, this vibrant rosé is fresh, crisp and zesty with a finely textured finish.

While rosé is traditionally thought of as a summer drink, this wine is lovely throughout the year and perfect with or without food — we love it with lunch.

Sauvignon Blanc  £18.50 Sally Clarke's own label 100% Sauvignon Blanc from Touraine, Loire Valley is clean and lemony on the palate. A perfumed nose and a pale lemon-green colour, this rich white pairs beautifully with shellfish or even simply as an aperitif.

Always serve extra cold.

SALLY CLARKE Sally Clarke's own label wine is available to purchase online or pick up in store.

121 Kensington Church Street, W8 7LP 283 Westbourne Grove, W11 2QA

sallyclarke.com/shop

56

Brownie points E X P LO D I N G B A K E RY

Based in southwest England, The Exploding Bakery delivers freshly made letterbox brownies nationwide. There are 12 flavours (all gluten-free, with plenty of vegan options) including fruit & nut with tea-soaked raisins and candied nuts, and rich raspberry topped with white chocolate.

Subscribe for regular deliveries, or buy as a one off. exploding bakery.com

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

ABS_December20_FOOD NOTES.indd 56

23/11/2020 15:01

FOOD & DRINK• NOTES

FOOD FOCUS Clarke's are now delivering to homes

FESTIVE GIFTS

Fromage funk

Clarke's have plenty on offer to gift any food lovers in your life, from hampers and Sally Clarke's book 30 Ingredients (£20) to their wonderful apron and hessian bags. Don't forget to order Clarke's own traditional mince pies (£9.25 for a box of six) for a festive tea time accompaniment.

FUNK CHEESE AND WINE

Mathew Carver, founder of cheese havens The Cheese Bar and Pick & Cheese, has opened a shop dedicated to the stinky stuff. Mathew has hand-selected over 30 cheeses from small producers, as well as an array of wines and cheeseboard essentials. Ready-made cheeseboards are also available for collection or delivery.

142 Columbia Road, E2 7RG thecheesebar.com

COMFORT F OO D OTTOLENGHI

Created in his Camden Test Kitchen, Yotam Ottolenghi’s new ready meals can be heated up in a saucepan and served within minutes. Recipes have been adapted from the chef’s cookbooks and Guardian column, such as spiced lamb ragu with harissa, apricots and green olives and braised spinach and herbs with paneer and lime. ottolenghi.co.uk

B U R R ATA S A L A D Clarke's burrata salad with pistachio nuts, fresh purple figs and balsamic dressing is an exquisite start to any meal, or even delightful alone as a lunch dish. The cool, creamy cheese sits atop a bed of crispy lettuce and it comes with a small pot of balsamic to drizzle on top of the rich, fresh fruit. £10

S I G N AT U R E SERVE FROG BY ADAM HANDLING

Full Monty FULL MONT Y EVENTS

Full Monty Events will deliver all the dishes, drinks and decor needed for Christmas Day, Christmas Eve and Boxing Day featuring the highest quality locally-sourced products. Thanks to chef Anna Humphreys, dishes such as pigs in blankets and celariac, leek and rosemary gratin just needs to be popped in the oven for the ultimate hassle-free Christmas. fullmontyevents.co.uk

V E A L LO I N For a warming, indulgent winter main course, look no further than Clarke's Correze veal loin roasted with rosemary-baked potatoes, fried padron peppers and Brussel sprout tops. Neatly packaged and delivered to your door ready to reheat and serve right away, it's the perfect treat for meat-eaters. £36.50 sallyclarke.com/shop

HAME, the luxurious athome experience from Frog

by Adam Handling, has four new menus including much-loved dishes from the restaurant. The chef’s signatures such as cheese doughnuts, lobster wagyu and truffle-stuffed roast chicken come ready to cook and plate at home.

34-35 Southampton Street, WC2E 7HG adamhandling.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_FOOD NOTES.indd 57

57

23/11/2020 15:01

from

Laura Lee Morgan

Suzie Lee Knitwear

Tailor & Forge

ARTS&CRAFTS MARKET

Agnes Creations

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Weekends

A N T I Q U E S & C O L L E C TA B L E S Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays

Nearest Station DLR Cutty Sark

#greenwichmarket www.greenwichmarket.london

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 4

20/11/2020 14:09

FOOD & DRINK • MEAL KITS

1

T H A I TA S T E S R O S A' S T H A I C A F E

B O X F R E S H DIY RESTAURANT KITS TO GET DELIVERED

1

Rosa’s Thai Cafe and Tourism Thailand have teamed up to celebrate 75 years of the pad thai with a kit that holds all the ingredients you need to make the signature dish with either prawns or tofu. £40 for four servings greatfood2u.co.uk

2

FIRST CLASS ONE FINE DINE

Leading private jet caterers On Air Dining have launched delivery of Michelin-quality meals that arrive neatly packaged with instructions on how to reheat. The duck and chicken liver parfait is exquisite, and the wild seabass delicate and delicious. Mains from £29.95 onefinedine.com

3

P E R F EC T PA S TA BANCONE

Bancone’s kits include starters, mains and desserts which come ready to reheat and serve. We try cacio e pepe with bucatini and spicy pork & n’duja ragù with mafalde, while dessert is dark chocolate parfait topped with blackberries.

From £36 for three courses bancone.com

3

2

4

TAC O T U E S DAY CLU B ME X ICA NA

4

Our DIY taco kit featured chilli-infused Al Pastor seitan accompanied by fresh corn tortillas.

Toppings of caramelised pineapple, red onion and a zingy salsa verde with coriander and lime – plus clear instructions – made for a feast. clubmexicana.com

5

C U R RY U P KO L A M B A

5

Sri Lankan restaurant Kolamba's Feasting Box is a selection of curries, condiments and sides pre-cooked by its chefs ready to reheat at home. From date and lime chutney to dhal and beetroot curry, there are plenty of plant-based options. £40 for two servings kolamba.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_MEAL KITS_PH.indd 59

59

23/11/2020 14:44

Feasting FARE

Christmas recipes from Daylesford Organic

60

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

ABS_December20_RECIPES_PH.indd 60

23/11/2020 14:57

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Roast Turkey SERVES 12-14

T

he key to a delicious Christmas turkey is to ensure that you leave ample time for it to rest.

Use our recipe for a perfect Christmas turkey below.

INGREDIENTS • 1 x 6.5kg organic turkey • 10g butter or goose fat, melted

METHOD 1 Preheat the oven to 180c. Stuff the main cavity of the turkey with a stuffing of your choice (we recommend our prune, walnut and sage stuffing) before crossing the legs one on top of the other and tying together tightly with string.

2 Next, stuff the neck cavity, pushing the stuffing as far down as it goes but making sure that the skin covering the cavity can still be pulled over and secured in place with a skewer. Roll any remaining stuffing into golf ball-sized shapes and set aside to roast with the turkey for the final 30 minutes of the cooking time.

3 Pat dry the skin of the turkey and brush all over with the melted butter or goose fat, then season well.

4 Cover the drumsticks with foil and place the turkey in the oven to roast for around 2¼ to 2½ hours. Try to baste the turkey at least twice as it cooks and if any areas are looking too brown, cover them with foil.

5 Remember, every oven is different so following your intuition when cooking your Christmas turkey is key. If you think the turkey is cooked, test it by inserting a long skewer into the deepest part of the thigh. Press the skin around the skewer with a spoon, and if the liquid that gathers is clear then the turkey is cooked. If the juices are pink, return the turkey to the oven to cook for a further 10-15 minutes.

Test again and repeat if necessary.

6 When you are confident that the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and cover generously with foil.

Allow it to rest for at least 30-45 minutes before carving and serving.

7 To carve, remove the legs from the carcass and carve their meat. Slice the white meat from the breast vertically across the grain and serve together with a little of the brown meat and lots of stuffing.

METHOD

Christmas Pudding

Baked Alaska SERVES 10-12

INGREDIENTS Christmas Pudding Ice Cream • 600ml double cream • 200ml whole milk • 100g Christmas pudding, crumbled • 50ml whiskey • 10 egg yolks • 75g light brown sugar Sponge • 3 large eggs • 95g caster sugar • 95g plain flour • Pinch of salt • 20g unsalted butter, melted Meringue • 3 medium egg whites • 300g caster sugar • Zest of one orange • Small pinch of mixed spice • 2-3 drops of Grand Marnier (optional)

Equipment: You will need a 600ml pudding basin or 8 individual stout dariole moulds and an ice cream maker.

Ice Cream 1 Begin by preparing your ice cream.

Combine the cream and milk in a pan with half of the crumbled Christmas pudding. Set over a medium heat and bring to boiling point. Remove from the heat, add the whisky and set aside.

2 In a clean bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until light and fluffy.

Pour in the hot milk and cream in a steady stream, whilst continuing to whisk. Pour into a clean pan and place over a moderate heat, stirring until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Pour into a bowl and set aside to cool.

3 Once cooled, churn in an ice cream machine until almost set – this should take 15-20 minutes. Crumble in the remaining Christmas pudding and churn briefly to incorporate. Transfer the mixture to a container and place in the freezer.

Sponge 1 Pre-heat the oven to 200°C and grease and line a shallow baking tin or Swiss roll tin. Whisk together the eggs and sugar in

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_RECIPES_PH.indd 61

61

23/11/2020 15:03

Come and enjoy our signature Bottomless Boozy Brunch with unlimited Prosecco, Beer, or Lychee Spritzer with a new Brunch Menu

Brunch only £40 per head

featuring Assorted Crispy and Steamed Starters, Tamarind rubbed Chicken and Traditional Thai Steamed Fish served with delicate Curries, Wok Fried Greens and our popular Pad Thai. Finish the feast with our Homemade Coconut Icecream and Banana Fritter.

Also Takeaway & Delivery Brunch includes a bottle of Prosecco per person Not valid in conjunction with any other offers/promotions.

BRUNCH @ 40 PER PERSON SERVED ON SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS FROM 12PM  4PM SIGNATURE COCKTAILS @ £8 PER SERVE OPENING TIMES TUESDAY TO SUNDAY 1210PM

YUMSA.indd 20

YUM SA RESTAURANT 3 plaza gardens 88 upper richmond road putney, sw15 2dt (opp east putney tube station)

WWW.YUM-SA.COM 020 3371 9111 #YUMSARESTAURANT

20/11/2020 11:58

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES a large bowl until pale, thick and creamy or until it has reached ‘ribbon stage’ - this means that when the whisk is lifted out of the mixture, the batter that falls back into the bowl will briefly rest on the surface of the mixture, leaving a ribbon trail.

2 Sieve half of the flour and salt over the whisked eggs and gently fold in. Once incorporated, sift in the remaining flour and repeat. Pour the melted butter around the edges of the bowl and then gently fold in from the sides, again being as gentle as possible. Pour the mixture into your lined tin and bake in the oven for 9-11 minutes until lightly golden and just cooked through.

Meringue Whisk together the egg whites until stiff and then continue to beat while gradually adding the caster sugar. Beat until thick and glossy.

Fold in the orange zest, mixed spice and Grand Marnier and transfer to a piping bag.

Assemble 1 Place the top of the pudding bowl over the centre of the cooled sponge and cut around it to create a disc. Leave the sponge disc on the baking tray, discarding any excess sponge.

2 Fill the pudding bowl with the ice cream, smoothing the top. Return to the freezer for 10 minutes. Next, turn the ice cream out of the pudding basin onto the sponge disc. Pipe the meringue all over the ice cream, working as quickly as you can and creating swirls and beautiful piped shapes. At this stage the baked Alaska can be frozen until needed.

3 To serve, pre-heat the oven to 200°C. Remove the Alaska from the freezer, place onto a baking tray and bake for 6-10 minutes until the outside is a beautiful golden brown. Serve immediately!

Tip – To create individual mini baked Alaskas, simply use small dariole moulds in place of the pudding bowl in this recipe.

Smoked Salmon

Buckwheat Blinis MAKES 18 BLINIS

INGREDIENTS For The Blini • 120g buckwheat flour • 5g dried yeast • 100ml kefir • 75ml whole milk • 1 egg, separated • Pinch salt • Pinch sugar For the Pickled Beets • 2 candy beetroot, peeled

and very finely sliced • 150g sugar • 150g white wine vinegar • 2 sprigs dill • 4 peppercorns • 2 bay leaves • Pinch salt To Serve • Crème fraiche • 150g smoked salmon, thinly sliced • A little fresh dill

METHOD 1 Begin by making the blini batter.

Combine the buckwheat flour, salt, sugar and yeast in a mixing bowl and stir together.

2 Warm the kefir and milk together in a small saucepan until lukewarm (body temperature) and then pour into the flour and yeast mixture.

3 Stir well until you have a completely smooth thick batter.

Cover with a tea towel or cloth and

leave to one side for 30 minutes.

4 To pickle the beetroot, place the sugar, vinegar, dill, peppercorns, bay leaves and salt in a small saucepan and bring to the boil. Stir to make sure all of the sugar has dissolved and pour over the sliced beetroot in a bowl. Leave to cool.

5 After 30 minutes stir the egg yolk into the blini batter. Beat the egg white until stiff and fold this into the batter until evenly combined.

6 To cook, heat a skillet or a thick based frying pan and lightly grease it with a little oil. Use a dessert spoon to drop the batter into the pan, forming small circles. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the top of the blini. Flip over and cook for 30 seconds longer before removing to a plate or tray.

7 To serve, simply spoon a little crème fraiche onto each blini, followed by a slice of salmon, a wafer of pickled beetroot and sprig of dill. daylesford.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_RECIPES_PH.indd 63

63

23/11/2020 15:03

www.quaillondon.com

QL.indd 1

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 5

020 8899 6051

19/10/2018 11:50

20/11/2020 14:09

FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DRINKS CABINET What to drink this month

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

REVIEW

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT B L AC K C OW VO D K A Dorset-based Black Cow Vodka, made with the whey leftover from cheesemaking, has released a new spirit for the festive season. Taking inspiration from the traditional Christmas pudding with flavours such as citrus, cloves, cinnamon, figs, currants and vanilla, top the amber liquid with champagne for a festive cocktail.

£25; blackcow.co.uk

MINDFUL WINE SEA CHANGE Eco-conscious wine brand Sea Change donate to marine conservation charities for every bottle sold, with an aim to reduce plastic pollution in the ocean. The Christmas Case is perfect for sharing, and includes one Prosecco Rose, one classic Prosecco, two Malbec and two Sauvignon.

£65; seachangewine.com

LIMITED LIQUEUR C O I N T R E AU Maison Cointreau is celebrating its 170th anniversary with a limited edition bottle designed by Vincent Darré. The French interior designer has adorned the four-face bottle (representing the four ingredients in the orange liqueur) with three different labels resembling mini paintings.

£35; harveynichols.com

Moore House

The luxurious cocktail delivery company

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

C

ocktail delivery services are no longer a novelty.

The past nine months have seen established watering holes and new start-ups alike take advantage of the order to ‘stay at home’, delivering drinks to our doors.

But with so many companies offering to bring the bar to you, mixologists need to stand out from the crowd to grab our fatigued attention. The Moore House Cocktail Company does just that.

Rather than dumping a box on your doorstep, Moore House aims to create a wonderful cocktail experience at home so you don't have the hassle and cost of buying multiple bottles of spirit. The handcrafted cocktails come thoughtfully packaged in either single-serve glass bottles or enough for three pours.

They make a beautiful gift too, and boxes can be personalised with a special message and the quirky addition of a cocktail-themed candle.

Moore House offers eight choices of tipple, with classics such as Negroni, Martini and Old Fashioned as well as two festive limited edition concoctions: Spicy Margarita (my favourite), which packs a fantastic punch, and Salted Espresso Martini, a glorious blend of salty, sweet and bitter flavours.

Garnishes are a big deal (each cocktail comes with its own), as are the techniques for pouring and serving, which are explained on a handy note card provided.

MOORE HOUSE COCKTAIL COMPANY

Set of three cocktails for £29 moorehousecocktails.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Drinks.indd 65

65

20/11/2020 11:12

ANN AND JEAN PAUL BRIGAND HAVE OVER 300 CITRUS VARIETIES

Passion

F R U I T

Silent Pool Distillers searched far and wide on their mission to create the finest citrus gin

T

he folks at Silent Pool Gin have been rather busy of late, travelling the globe in search of the world’s rarest and most intriguing citrus fruits to grace their new gin. It's the first major launch under the Silent Pool Gin brand since the iconic teal and copper bottle first burst onto the craft gin scene back in 2014. Cue a not-so-silent fanfare for Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin. They may have taken a path less travelled to arrive at this alluring new gin but one sip and you realise that the destination is every bit as rewarding as the journey. This

66

By EVE HERBERT LUGAR DO OLHAR FELIZ

wonderfully complex spirit balances bright zest with subtle sweetness and is both beautifully aromatic and delicately spiced.

But what’s so rare about the citrus? On their journey to locate the finest citrus fruits, the team at Silent Pool Distillers eventually unearthed two renowned citrus collectors who share their relentless passion for creativity and excellence.

Leaving their busy lives and careers in Paris in 2001, Ann and Jean Paul Brigand moved to the gorgeous Alentejo coast in Portugal and set about building their home, Lugar do Olhar Feliz.

The duo has a particular passion for citrus and have made it their mission to help young Portuguese farmers and chefs (and bartenders, of course) to discover and fall in love with citrus as

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

ABS_Dec_SILENT POOL_DPS_.indd 66

20/11/2020 12:01

FOOD & DRINK • FOCUS

RARE CITRUS NEGRONI RARE CITRUS GIN GIFT BOX, £67

If that hasn’t got your mouth watering, we spoke to the team at the Surrey-hills based distillery to ask how best to enjoy Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin. Here are five delicious cocktail recipes to try.

RARE CITRUS GIMLET

they have done. Now boasting a citrus collection of more than 300 varieties imported from the far flung corners of the planet (Yes you read right, 300!) Ann and Jean Paul have one of the largest and finest citrus collections in the world.

When Silent Pool Distillers visited their citrus grove, it far exceeded all expectations.

Head Distiller Tom Hutchings says, "We were just blown away by what we found.

Hundreds of the rarest and most incredible citrus. The aromas and tastes were like nothing we’d experienced before."

The team sampled dozens of citrus varieties before selecting the most interesting and aromatic flavours to take back to the distillery to begin formulating their distinctive new gin. After much recipe development the team settled on four lead varieties. Inside the zesty tipple you’ll find Buddha’s Hand, Green Seville Orange, Natsu Dai Dai (a hybrid of orange and pomelo), and lastly, Hirado Buntan (a type of pomelo).

Balancing all the different types of citrus in the final distillation was no easy task.

To produce remarkable layers of everchanging flavour, the distillers adopted

Rare Citrus G&T

50ml Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin 100ml Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic Garnish with a twist of pink grapefruit

the same bespoke four-stage production approach used to create Silent Pool Gin. The result? A masterfully distilled and beautifully aromatic gin with a unique taste. However, don't make the mistake of calling this a flavoured gin, or Head Distiller Tom Hutchings will wince. "Please don’t mention the F word. As with Silent Pool Gin, this is a naturally distilled gin where all the flavours are captured in the distillation itself with no artificial colourings or flavour compounds added in afterwards," he says. "We’re passionate about making proper gins in the right way. This is a gin with oodles of classic juniper to be enjoyed, complemented with wonderfully complex layers of citrus and spice." silentpoolgin.com

Add a generous amount of ice to the glass, and then add the ingredients, adding more ice after if required.

• Rare Citrus Negroni 40ml Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin 20ml Campari 20ml Sweet Vermouth

Add the above ingredients to a rocks glass with ice, stir and then top up with more ice. Garnish with a twist of pink grapefruit.

• Rare Citrus Highball 35ml Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin 15ml Umeshu 15ml yuzu juice 10ml sugar

Add ice to a highball, add the ingredients and then top with soda. Give a very quick stir and add more ice, then garnish with an orange twist and thyme.

• Rare Citrus Gimlet 60ml Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin 15ml clementine cordial

Add ingredients to a mixing glass, add ice and stir. Strain into a Nick and Nora/ Coupe glass and garnish with a bay leaf.

• Rare Citrus Twist 25ml Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin 15ml Melonade 10ml lemon juice

Add ingredients to a cocktail shaker

with ice, and then shake and strain into a flute. Top with sparkling Sake and garnish with an edible flower.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_Dec_SILENT POOL_DPS_.indd 67

67

20/11/2020 12:02

CG.indd 1

25/01/2019 13:48

FOOD & DRINK • PARTNERSHIP

Liquid GOLD Absolutely meets Rome De Bellegarde's David Bellegarde-Smeralda

By EVE HERBERT

DAVID BELLEGARDE-SMERALDA

ROME DE BELLEGARDE XO

TELL US ABOUT RDB’S FAMILY HERITAGE AND LEGACY.

The story goes back to Roger de Saint Lary de Bellegarde who was appointed Royal Master of Horse by King Henry III. In his fight to promote equality of rights, he decided to lose all his privileges to help the Huguenots escape France to find refuge in Poland. Most of the Bellegarde family then moved to Haiti where our direct ancestor Dantes Bellegarde’s father, Jean Louis Bellegarde, was the governor of Port of Prince, the capital of Haiti. It’s also around that time in 1725 that the Bellegarde family who stayed in France bought a domaine in Champagne and Cognac, gifting French nobles and diplomats the best produce every year. This great legacy always stayed with us; in 2016 three of my cousins and I reunited to revive our family story and incredible craftmanship. We relaunched Rome de Bellegarde Cognac in 2018 and have the world record of the most expensive shot of Cognac ever sold.

WHAT MAKES A COGNAC WORTHY OF ITS PRICE , PARTICULARLY XO?

Its incredible taste. Unlike Champagne, the Cognac industry has far less players, which means a lower offer versus a growing

“Our XO is a blend of eaux de vie aged for more than 25 years”

CAN YOU TELL US THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE ROME DE BELLEGARDE LOGO?

demand. All our Cognacs are made with 100% ugni blanc from Grande Champagne which is the best of the six Cognac regions due to the quality of the soil and its exposition to the sun. Our unique blends take a huge amount of time to assemble the best eaux de vie. Our Cognacs are true masterpieces. The new XO, which is a blend of eaux de vie aged for more than 25 years, is far beyond what any other XO has to offer (XO Cognac has to be aged for at least six years). The quality speaks for itself.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO ENJOY ROME DE BELLEGARDE COGNAC?

Enjoying a splash of Rome de Bellegarde Cognac is something that I like to do in the comfort of my home after our traditional Sunday roast, the children are in bed and I have just had my cup of Blue Mountain coffee in my sofa chair. I open my cabinet and pour 50ml of Cognac into one of our collector crystal glass and reflect.

Our logo is a salamander, an amazing amphibian creature. The ancient belief was that salamanders were the only creatures to be able to live through fire, which for me reflects quality that best defines our family — resilience. We chose the salamander, and in particular the seal of King Francis I who was born in Cognac, as an honour to him — he gave birth to the renaissance era. His motto of “Nutrisco et Extinguo”, nourishing the good and extinguishing the bad, is a vision that matches the Bellegarde family's core values.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE BRAND?

Our goal for Rome de Bellegarde starts and ends with creating remarkable, memorable moments that will create a positive impact for less advantaged people too; we are involved in lots of charity work. Our goal is to carry on producing the world’s most exquisite Cognacs. We are just getting started and we believe there are so many stories to tell.

R O M E D E B E L L E G A R D E XO £3,000 for 700ml romedebellegarde.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_ADV_Rome De Bellegard.indd 69

69

20/11/2020 10:37

77 Portobello Rd, London W11 2QB 020 7018 2373 www.silkandcashmere.com

SC.indd 1

24/11/2017 12:21

FA S H I O N

HERO WORSHIP TOPSHOP

Topshop's AW20 campaign was styled by Jenke Ahmed Tailly and shot by Campbell Addy. A cast of familiar faces including Saffron Hocking of TopBoy, and Topshop campaign regulars Cheyenne Maya and Megan Williams showcase Topshop’s hero pieces. topshop.com

Q&A with Tallulah & Hope 72 • Celestial jewellery 74 • Shoot 76 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_FASHION OPENER_PH.indd 71

71

20/11/2020 14:11

Q&A

Comfort

AND JOY Absolutely quizzes Lisa Ispani of Tallulah and Hope, whose new collection marks a shift from kaftans to glamour Interview PENDLE HARTE Q Tallulah and Hope started as

resortwear. What was the original concept and how has it evolved?

A Originally we were inspired to design pieces that avoided holiday wardrobe cliches and also celebrated our love of print. Our first collections focused on fluid, kaftaninspired shapes in beautiful prints. As we evolved we wanted pieces that were more relevant to our customer (most of whom are UK-based) so we started introducing more ready-to-wear styles. Our AW20 is our first full ready-to-wear collection and we’re thrilled how it’s been received.

Q The new collection has a sense of

both glamour and comfort, which seems just right for Christmas 2020.

Can you describe the look?

A The collection mood is ‘70s skate culture mets 50s Dior’ so we have very relaxed pieces with a more sporty feel. For example, our embroidered sweatshirt can be styled with the Paperbag skirt in black cotton drill, which has a cinched waist and lots of structure. We wanted to focus on clothes that are easy to wear but also elevated enough to feel special. All the pieces have flattering silhouettes, considered design details such as pockets, covered buttons and pin tucks as well as beautiful art-inspired prints and embroidery motifs. We describe T&H as a ‘style’ brand not a ‘fashion’ brand, offering pieces that deliver effortless sophistication and can be worn on repeat for years.

Q What are your visual inspirations?

A Artists, textile designers and the great

outdoors. For our current collection, printmaker and graphic artist Brian Cook and artist Tom Shedden’s recent drawings were of particular inspiration. The handdrawn embroidery panels were developed from photographs taken from a cab window

72

LOLA DRESS IN NAVY, £240

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

ABS_December20_Fashion Q+A_Tallulah+Hope_PH.indd 72

20/11/2020 11:15

FASHION • Q&A

while crossing the Sea Link Bridge in Mumbai, to create something delicate from such a strong and ingenious structure.

SHORT SLEEVE SWEATSHIRT STORKS GREEN, £140

Q What fabrics do you like to work

with and where do you source them?

A For AW20 we’ve used cotton needlecord

as it feels great and is a very hard wearing fabric, cotton drill as it has great structure and weight and a soft, fluid viscose crepe, because our prints work so well on this base and it feels lovely to wear. We work with a small family-run factory in Mumbai who source all fabrics typically direct from mills and we have them dyed to our specific colours or printed by a small Mumbai print factory.

Q Tell us about your prints.

A The bird motif (representing freedom)

is a recurring print that we return to each season. Some bird prints are more literal and others more abstract. The prints

“The collection mood is 70s skate culturemeets-50s Dior”

BARBARA MIDI DRESS IN TERRACOTTA, £240

always start off as hand drawings; we work in quite a low-fi way initially drawing on paper or creating collages. A lot of brands create everything digitally but for us the process always starts by hand – it gives the end the result a more organic feel. The colour combinations for the prints are also really important to get right – typically the inspiration comes from art books and artists.

Q Who are your favourite designers?

A Roksanda for her woman-centred design

aesthetic, colour blocking and distinctive cuts. Vivienne Westwood for her authenticity, creative originality and activism. Mara Hoffman for her beautiful silhouettes, inclusivity and creating a sustainable brand with such impressive eco credentials.

Q What are the plans for T&H in 2021?

A We want to keep refining our ready-to-

wear collections, although we will always have lovely kaftans in our summer collections too. We’ll be working directly with artisans in Jaipur to develop hand-blocked pieces on organic fabrics as part of our goal to become a fully sustainable brand. We’ll also be collaborating with artist Tazelaar Stevenson, known for his graphic, linear screenprints.

tallulahandhope.com

ELUNA DRESS IN TEAL, £280

ABS_December20_Fashion Q+A_Tallulah+Hope_PH.indd 73

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

73

20/11/2020 11:15

FASHION • JEWELLERY

Star struck Celestial jewellery for a sparkling December

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

74

KENNETH JAY LANE

RACHEL JACKSON

MAYA GEMSTONES

Gold Star Necklace, £145 libertylondon.com

Large Shooting Star Hoops, £80 racheljacksonlondon.com

Saturn Ring With Diamonds, €3,850 mayagemstones.com

HUSH

ANNOUSHKA

DINNY HALL

Kiara Star Earrings, £36 hush-uk.com

18ct Yellow Gold Diamond Spinning Moon Charm, £8,500 annoushka.com

My World Celestial Edit, £445 dinnyhall.com

SELIM MOUZANNAR

TADA & TOY

SWAROVSKI

Sapphire Cluster Star Necklace, £1,210 libertylondon.com

Celestial Hoops, £125 tadaandtoy.com

The Elements Moon Bracelet, £69 swarovski.com

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

ABS_JEWELLERY_December2020.indd 74

20/11/2020 13:58

MP.indd 20

19/11/2020 11:41

ABS_DEC_2020_Shoot_PH.indd 76

20/11/2020 11:55

RED A L E R T

High drama and fluid movement characterise the new collection from Paula Knorr PA U L A K N O R R . U K

ABS_DEC_2020_Shoot_PH.indd 77

20/11/2020 11:55

ABS_DEC_2020_Shoot_PH.indd 78

20/11/2020 11:55

ABS_DEC_2020_Shoot_PH.indd 79

20/11/2020 11:55

LINGERIE • NIGHTWEAR • SWIMWEAR • BEACHWEAR

Lingerie and swimwear from A to J cup (size 8 to 20) GIFT VOUCHER AND GIFT WRAPPING AVAILABLE

34 Webb’s Road, London SW11 6SF Tel: 020 7924 3826 www.ameliesfollies.co.uk

We are currently working by appointment only Book via the ‘book a fitting’ on our website or in our Instagram bio

Virtual Gifting Consultation Free UK shipping Click and Collect

AMELIES FOLLIES_USE.indd 1

20/11/2020 10:20

AMELIES FOLLIES_USE.indd 2

20/11/2020 10:20

HF.indd 1

23/10/2020 13:02

FASHION • PARTNERSHIP

Bags of STYLE

Absolutely meets Marcella Polzer, founder of accessory label Marc Ella London

By EVE HERBERT

N MARCELLA POLZER

o one grows up dreaming about working in insurance," laughs Marcella Polzer. “I didn’t even know what that was when I was little.”

We’re sitting at a juice bar in Battersea, where Marcella is explaining how she took the plunge and left her office job in insurance to start her own fashion business. Daughter of an entrepreneur, it’s clearly in her blood.

“I loved my job, but knew that I had to take the leap at some point, so I just went for it.”

Marcella went on to launch Marc Ella London, an affordable luxury accessories brand, mainly focusing on handbags. “Back then, I had so much ambition. I remember sitting at a restaurant with my husband,

trying to cut down a list of 30 ideas to five,” she says, brimming with enthusiasm.

Today, Marcella’s passion for design has resulted in more than 90 products, all while juggling family life as a mum of three. She takes her inspiration from the London scene, travels across the world, but also family and nature: “I want to create products that are as versatile as they are fashionable. For me, my pieces are statements of freedom, of the independent woman, always on the move.”

I look across the table to look at her bag and instantly know what she means; she has one of her hero designs, the Monty, next to her. It’s a bucket bag and has a soft, origami-like construction. “It’s not just a bucket bag, it can be collapsed or even rolled up, which is perfect for the world traveller and mum alike,” Marcella explains.

The Monty bag, it turns out, is named after her second born son, who is now two years old. She also has a four-year-old daughter and another baby boy who was just born in October. They live together with her husband and dog in Surrey.

I ask her if having a young family has affected her, business-wise. “I am as ambitious on the family front as I am in business, if not more,” says Marcella. “Ultimately, both my family and my business give each other the flexibility so that I can pursue both.”

Marcella is one of the many women who have left behind traditional careers to carve their own paths as entrepreneurs. Being her own boss has allowed Marcella to have the flexibility that motherhood requires as well as the freedom to follow her passion.

We end up chatting for hours, and are both long done with our juices. As we finally both get up to leave, Marcella wheeling her stylish pram and clutching the Monty bag, it’s clear that Marc Ella London is the independent label to watch.

MARC ELLA @marc_ella_london_official marcellalondon.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_ADV_Marc Ella.indd 83

83

20/11/2020 10:01

THE ULTIMATE ORGANIC CBD BOOSTER FOR YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

*

SCAN ME! www.theleafelite.com | theleafextracts@gmail.com Follow us at @theleaftlc *TLE is not stating any medical claims regarding the use of CBD.

LE.indd 22

17/11/2020 10:05

HEALTH & BEAUTY

SKIN HEAVEN SKINFLUENCER

On page 86, we visit groundbreaking aesthetic clinic Skinfluencer, plus their Senior Aesthetician Gigi Shaker shares the secret to radiant skin in the age of zoom social gatherings and digital festive cheer. skin-fluencer.com

Festive make-up 87 • Beauty notes 93 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Health+Beauty_Opener_v2.indd 85

85

23/11/2020 12:32

SS.indd 20

20/11/2020 11:57

HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

EDITOR’S PICK

LOLA'S LASHES Rose Quartz Magnetic Eyelashes and Eyeliner Kit, £35 lolaslashes.co.uk

JUNI COSMETICS Elise Lipstick, £48 junicosmetics.com

DECORTÉ Q Point Blush in Elegant Pink, £57 decortecosmetics.com

TOM FORD Soleil Neige Body Oil, £75 tomford.co.uk

DECORTÉ Makeup Coffret, £63 decortecosmetics.co.uk

CODE8 Lipstick Trio, £95 codeeight.com

RMS BEAUTY Master Radiance Base, £28.50 spacenk.com

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Champagne-inspired sparkles and bright pinks are the antidote to a gloomy winter

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

PILLOW BEAUTY Mini Highlighter in Starlight Blaze, £9.50 pillowbeautyuk.com

THE BODY SHOP Bold as Nature Eyeshadow Palette, £15 thebodyshop.com

BIOSSANCE Squalane & Vitamin E Shimmering Body Oil, £37 cultbeauty.co.uk

ABS_December20_Beauty Products.indd 87

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

87

23/11/2020 12:36

Xxxxxxx x xxxxx Skinfluencer xxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxxxxx x xxxxx

WINTER GLOW

We visit Skinfluencer’s state-of-the-art location on Fulham Road, plus Senior Aesthetician, Gigi Shaker shares her Christmas skincare tips

By EVE HERBERT

88

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

Abs_December20_Skinfluencer_3pp_v2 (Conflicted copy from Michael Roberts’s iMac on 2020-11-20).indd 88

23/11/2020 12:03

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

W

hen you walk through the doors of Skinfluencer’s Chelsea clinic, you expect to encounter a menu worthy of a five-star spa given its boutique interiors.

Thanks to a palette that pairs a distinctly designer upmarket green with understated gold and a nod to modern monochrome, it’s serenely elegant. Instead, however, you receive a menu that offers a range of skin-transforming protocols that harness and layer the most acclaimed technologies in the aesthetics industry, and all of which are labelled with instaworthy names: Pucker Up, On Another Level and Glow, Baby Glow, to name a few.

“It was very important to us to offer a boutique luxury client journey without

compromising on a results-driven menu of treatments,” says Sharin Shafer, COO. While the front-ofhouse checks all the necessary pre-appointment paperwork is in order (they were sent via email – efficacy is paramount at Skinfluencer, a testament to Shafer’s time in Corporate America!), I relax with a green tea in the reception, while a Skinfluencer brand video that offers insight into the treatments and brand DNA plays against a backdrop of soothing music. After a few minutes, I meet Gigi Shaker, Skinfluencer’s resident Senior Aesthetician, whose client list includes members of the Royal Family and popular TV personalities.

Instantly putting me at my ease, Gigi invites me into the consultation room to discuss my skin concerns, where my skincare journey really begins…

She tells me that many skin conditions are not visible to the naked eye, and while I may presume my unsightly skin conditions have appeared overnight, generally that isn’t the case. In fact, skin concerns such as pigmentation, redness or acne that seem to appear without warning actually take many months or in some cases (like sun damage) up to three decades to show up on the surface of the skin.

How can you possibly treat something that is unseen, I ask. She smiles sagely, introducing me to the Observ 320, which allows her to view four different layers of the skin to uncover and highlight concerns that are both visible but most impressively invisible and can still be treated to prevent them from becoming visible skin issues.

Using this, Gigi can accurately diagnose skin conditions and propose the correct treatment plan and products to maximise skin health as quickly and effectively as SHARIN SHAFER, COO SKINFLUENCER, LONDON

possible. “With the correct treatment plan, we can quickly remedy some skin conditions and stop others from ever appearing on the skin surface,” she explains.

After assessing my skin and patiently explaining to me the issues that I face currently and – without her help – will face in the future, Gigi tells me that I am a perfect candidate for the Glow Baby Glow treatment. Listening to her, it seems that the treatment is a onestop-shop for beautiful skin, banishing unwanted pigment, fine lines, pores and laxity to leave it smooth and soft and undeniably radiant. She also confesses that it uses a plethora of technologies, including Cutera Enlighten III, as well as nano and PICO lasers. Plus there is no downtime. Needless to say, I am sold!

Post-treatment, the compliments flood in over the coming days – from Zoom calls

“Post-treatment, the compliments flood in as people ask if I’ve had something done” with colleagues to socially-distanced walks with friends, I am asked multiple times if I have had something done as my skin looks so great. I may have left Skinfluencer but Skinfluencer has not left me.

Before leaving the clinic, I was prescribed a thorough at-home skincare regime by Gigi, which promised to maintain the treatment results – and quite uniquely, after my appointment I was contacted by Gigi to find out how my skin was feeling and to follow up on the results that had the treatment has achieved. This type of ultra-personal aftercare was definitely a first for me, so I questioned Gigi about the post-treatment care on offer. “At Skinfluencer, VIP treatment is standard,” she explained. “Everyone at Skinfluencer is passionate about skin – it is not a job, rather it is a vocation. We offer a conciergestyle service to all of our clients for the duration of their skincare journey.”

And who wouldn’t want that?

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

Abs_December20_Skinfluencer_3pp_v2 (Conflicted copy from Michael Roberts’s iMac on 2020-11-20).indd 89

89

23/11/2020 12:04

TEP.indd 20

21/08/2020 13:13

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

Skinfluencer’s Senior Aesthetician Gigi Shaker has some sound skincare advice to share ahead of (digital) party season….

Since February, most of us have been spending significant amounts of time wearing a face mask, which for many has wreaked havoc on the skin. Regardless of age or skin type, every client I speak to has experienced or is experiencing break outs around the cheeks, nose and chin and so for this reason, I believe that even with the festive season approaching (and the prospect of Zoom office parties and socially distanced family gatherings looming) the best approach is to limit the amount of makeup we wear and instead focus more on keeping our skin its healthiest and looking its absolute best.

Ask yourself if you really need makeup and

if you do, assess your face to work out exactly what you are trying to conceal. Do you have redness in your skin that makes foundation imperative, or are you hiding acne scars or active acne? Perhaps pigmentation is the bane of your life. Whatever your condition is, I recommend that you consider investing in a treatment programme to eliminate it or at the very least improve it. An effective skincare treatment plan can ensure make up-free skin is achievable for everyone in a relatively short amount of time.

And if you simply can’t go out without certain makeup staples, then following a professionally-recommended skincare regime is non-negotiable if you want to avoid blemishes and wow your colleagues, friends and family - even if it is at a distance!

GIGI’S TOP THREE treatments to get your skin glowing this festive season

1. ON ANOTHER LEVEL

Perfect for those aged 30+ who need to address the signs of ageing.

This six-dimensional protocol initially begins in the deepest layer of your skin to boost collagen and elastin, before working its way towards the surface, leaving no fibroblast unturned! This thorough rejuvenation works intraorally to naturally plump sunken jowls and address marionette lines, as well as restoring a beautifully plump natural-looking pout!

This treatment can be further upgraded with the addition of a bespoke eye treatment, namely either “The Eyes Have It”, which shrinks and tightens the loose skin often associated with hooded eyes, or “Eye Fi”, a wunderkind therapy, which instantly removes all traces of loose skin around the eyes, including heavy eyebrows.

2. IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Perfect for millenials and those of any age who suffer from breakouts Aimed at anyone who has acne issues and incredibly popular with millenial clients, this futuristic laser-based protocol combines long-pulsed and high energy ultra-short bursts of energy, which zap zits into submission to reveal clear, radiant skin. No concealer necessary!

3. THE SKINFLUENCER SIGNATURE FACIAL

Suitable for everyone, especially those who want beautiful, radiant skin.

This one-of-a-kind deep cleansing facial targets both the dermis and epidermis to kickstart your skin’s restoration and renewal regimen. This comprehensive one-hour medical grade facial is adapted for individual skin profiles, and includes a deep cleanse, extractions (when needed), a light chemical peel and light laser peel. The treatment ends with a bespoke nourishing masque calibrated to best suit your skin.

With this treatment, the skin will be purified, nourished and restored, perfectly complementing any skincare programme and to maintain your healthy glow.

S K I N F LU E N C E R 307 Fulham Road, SW10 9QH skin-fluencer.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

Abs_December20_Skinfluencer_3pp_v2 (Conflicted copy from Michael Roberts’s iMac on 2020-11-20).indd 91

91

23/11/2020 12:10

Beautiful skin from the inside Skincare innovation in a drink

Skinade has been a game changer for skin hydration “My hair and nails look healthier as well. Even my Dermatologist noticed the improvement in my skin”.

Joelle - March 2019

2 weeks to Wow! “The difference was clear after 2 weeks!

I am now in my 2nd month of Skinade and the suppleness in my skin is incredible. I have noticed a marked difference in the hydration and texture in my face. I am hooked!”

Andrea - March 2019

The brand trusted by professionals, and loved by you...

The inside-out approach to skincare is becoming an increasingly appealing and effective way to achieve visible results.

As we age, our collagen production slows down, affecting the appearance of our skin. Skinade’s active ingredients work together to produce a daily drink aimed at nourishing and supporting the skin from the inside for beautiful skin on the outside.

Love skinade “I just started my third month and see a great difference in the texture, elasticity and brightness of my skin highly recommend to everyone”.

Claudia - February 2019

skinade.com

SKINADE.indd 1

#BelieveTheHype

24/04/2019 15:40

HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury beauty and fragrance

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

REVIEW

GIELLY GREEN

LADY IN RED

Hair colour expertise in Marylebone

CODE8

By PENDLE HARTE

Queen of cool and Code8 brand ambassador Alexa Chung has created a gorgeously wearable lipstick trio called All-Day Soirée, available at Burlington Arcade. A gift that gives back, 10% of proceeds go to the Womanity Foundation. £95; codeeight.com

W It's LIT HOURGLASS COSMETICS

The Ambient Lighting Edit palette has returned for the holidays with three new shades of blusher, bronzer and highlighter alongside Hourglass’ most coveted colours.

We love Glistening Strobe Light for perfecting the ‘glow from within’ look. £81; hourglasscosmetics.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

ROSY CHEEKS C H A N T E CA I L L E

Chantecaille’s new Rose de Mai Cleansing Balm is the heavy-duty cleanser of dreams, effortlessly sweeping off dirt and makeup.

Thanks to hardworking ingredients such as antioxidant-rich rosehip oil, hydrating hyaluronic acid and exfoliating phytic acid, skin is left fresh, dewy and soothed. £84; chantecaille.co.uk

hen a hairdresser suggests a change of look, it's definitely worth listening to their ideas. Even if it's not what you thought you wanted to hear. But asking for what we think we like, or what we're used to, only leads to one thing: the hair rut. For me, the problem is highlights. I've been having highlights for so many years now that instead of looking subtly sunkissed, my hair is brassy and blonde, usually with thick roots.

Or at least it was, until Shona Bain politely suggested a bit of a change.

I'd come to Marylebone's Gielly Green for balayage, assuming that we'd revive the blonde shades that were growing out, but Shona has other ideas. Why don't we go a bit darker? she asks. I have tried that, I say. A few years ago I experimented with a return to what I thought was my natural shade, and everybody was supportive. So supportive in fact that it took one brave friend to confess that the new colour did, in fact, make me look older, and that I should go back to the highlights.

But that's not what Shona was suggesting. She transformed my hair by toning down the blonde and reviving my natural brown, adding hints of shine and clever accents.

Now I look subtly sunkissed, just like I always wanted.

GIELLY GREEN 42-44 George Street, W1

giellygreen.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_BEAUTY NOTES_PH.indd 93

93

20/11/2020 10:33

7

MEDISPA.indd 1

24/01/2020 14:49

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

“Looking good helps you feel good, and that's part of being healthy” more than just a smile. The health of your mouth can affect your general health too and has been associated with an increased risk of strokes, cardiac and respiratory problems and complications for those with uncontrolled diabetes, not to mention the associated mental health effects of not feeling good about yourself.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Looking after our teeth and gums is absolutely paramount. Phil at Sparklysmile says there are three key habits that can help us all achieve better oral health for the long term: – Brush your teeth and interdental cleaning twice a day.

– Keep an eye on the amount and frequency of sugar consumed.

– Visit the dentist as often as they recommend for bespoke advice.

T O Y O U R H E A L T H More than just a beautiful smile, looking after your teeth and gums aids your general and mental health says Sparklysmile

W

hile we all want straight, white, shiny teeth that help to give us a beautiful smile, your teeth are worth far more to you than just dashing good looks.

Phil, the dentist at Sparklysmile, says that without teeth, not only would we be unable to bite, chew and digest our food, but we wouldn’t be able to speak clearly.

Many people who lose teeth find that they begin to lisp or can’t pronounce words clearly. This is because the teeth create a structure for the lips and tongue, which helps us to form sounds and words.

Teeth also help to form a structure for our face and without them, the face can look sunken and lose shape.

Losing teeth really does mean losing

WHAT CAN SPARKLYSMILE DO TO HELP?

The experienced dental and hygienist team at Sparklysmile will make sure your gums and teeth are as healthy as they can be. And if you do lose a tooth, Nilesh Parmar can replace teeth with implants. If your teeth are a little (or a lot) crooked, then Jiten Vadukul can perform straightening miracles with his orthodontic skills. The icing on the cake?

Whitening to give your smile a sparkle.

Looking good helps you feel good, and that’s all part of being healthy. Sparklysmile recommend that most patients attend checkups every six months. This helps them monitor any changes to your oral health and allows them to spot and treat problems before they become serious issues.

Over the lockdown and Christmas period they will be on duty as ever in case of any mishaps, always happy to give advice and help in every way they can.

S PA R K LY S M I L E 19 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath, SE3 0TA 020 8852 0442 info@sparklysmile.co.uk • sparklysmile.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_ADV_Sparklysmile.indd 95

95

20/11/2020 10:22

Luxury Kitchens since 1892

Clear structures, sensible space. +SEGMENTO Y

Poggenpohl Wigmore 118 Wigmore Street London | W1U 3RT phone 020 7224 1986 wigmore@poggenpohl.com www.wigmore.poggenpohl.com

PP.indd 20

Poggenpohl Chelsea 107 Pimlico Road London | SW1W 8PH phone 020 7730 7927 chelsea@poggenpohl.com www.chelsea.poggenpohl.com

Poggenpohl Hampstead 477-481 Finchley Road London | NW3 6HS phone 020 7794 7801 hampstead@poggenpohl.com www.hampstead.poggenpohl.com

19/11/2020 11:49

INTERIORS

WAT ER MU SIC SA S H A CO M P TO N

Yorkshire-born and Amsterdam-based artist Sasha Compton's prints make thoughtful gifts. Inspired by the beauty of nature, her mixed-media artwork is colourful and focuses on positive imperfections. Pictured is the intriguing Sloterpas Swimmers, printed in four colourways in runs of 25, starting at £54 for A4 size. sashacompton.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Interior inspirations 98 • Cool dog, cool home 102 • Top Five: lamps 111 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_INTERIORS OPENER_PH.indd 97

97

01/12/2020 14:00

INTERIORS NOT E S Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

HIDE A ND SEEK BILL AMBERG

Bill Amberg's first lighting collection comprises a series of woven leather lights in four elegant and adaptable configurations. The Loom collection has been designed and handmade in Amberg’s London studio, and includes a single and a twin floor light, a table light and a wall light.

Each piece plays with the use of shadow effects, with a delicate glow radiating through woven leather. billamberg.com

G R E Y DAY FARROW & BALL

There's still time to redecorate for Christmas – and Farrow and Ball's colour guru Joa Studholme is a fan of moody grey Down Pipe for dining rooms, combines with All White woodwork. It's a strong look. farrow-ball.com

98

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

ABS_December20_Interiors_Notes_PH.indd 98

23/11/2020 16:25

INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E FIVE Christmas Lights COX & COX Indoor outdoor geometric lustre festoon lights, £60 coxandcox.co.uk

WINTER FLO R A L

CO LO U R E D I T GEORGE SPENCER

Clay McLaurin Studio’s latest project sees some of their best loved designs being launched in vibrant, new colourways.

The Colour Edit carefully curates their existing fabrics in 23 new colours, exclusive to George Spencer in the UK. georgespencer.com

MARIMEKKO

Marimekko's new pattern Hyhmä (frost) is part of a winter floral series by Aino-Maija Metsola. The delicate watercolor design portrays frozen flowers and plants adrift in wintery winds. Hyhmä plate, £17. skandium.com

ANNABEL JAMES Silver cluster LED lights, £17.95 annabeljames.co.uk

LIGHTS 4 FUN Multicoloured pickwick lights, £29.99 lights4fun.co.uk

FRALGETO GLASS Fused glass candle lantern, £40 thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk

GREEN SCREEN PAINT & PAPER LIBRARY

KINFOLK DECOR Wire star LED, £16 kinfolkdecor.co.uk

Encompassing 190 shades, Paint & Paper Library’s colour card is made up of two palettes: ‘Architectural Colours’ ‘Original Colours’ and a capsule collection of ‘Monochrome’ shades. Pictured is a bathroom in stylish Euphorbia. paintandpaperlibrary.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Interiors_Notes_PH.indd 99

99

23/11/2020 16:25

CASTRADS.indd 20

24/07/2020 12:02

INTERIORS • TREND SLOWDOWN STUDIO Sakamato Throw, £245 conranshop.co.uk

TORI MURPHY Throw in Pearl & Linen, £180 torimurphy.com

MINT & MAY Rectangular Orange Velvet Cushion With Tassels, £75 mintandmay.co.uk

TOLLY MCRAE Lady Grey Wool Throw Essential Collection, £69 tollymcrae.co.uk

SWOON EDITIONS Swoon Milward Two Seater Sofa, £1,499 swooneditions.com

EDITOR’S PICK

LIME LACE Cashmere merino wool throw, £99 limelace.co.uk

CHILCOTT ABODE LIVING

Super soft hot water bottle, £25 chilcottuk.com

Vista thrwo, £120 abodeliving.co.uk

GET COSY

Warming accessories for winter at home

EDITOR’S PICK WELSH OTTER Carreg Grey Yellow and White Tapestry Throw, £135 welshotter.co.uk

By P E N D L E H A R T E THE LOUNGING HOUND Animalia Scatter Cushion in Rousseau, £70, thelounginghound.com

CIEL SHOP Cotton diamond cushion, £35 cielshopinteriors.com

LOAF Easy knit throw in sage, £135 loaf.com

HEATING PLUMBING LONDON Alpaca throw, £145 heating-and-plumbing.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Products_COSY_PH.indd 101

101

23/11/2020 14:49

LIFE

A d og’s

This spare room features soft and comfortable bed linen. On the landing, a cotton blanket by Californian art brand BFGF hangs on the wall.

At home with Ella James, founder of A New Tribe boutique and her dog Peggy Words G E R A L D I N E JA M E S Photography JA M E S G A R D I N E R

102

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

ABS_DEC_2020_DOGS_HOMES_PH.indd 102

23/11/2020 16:32

INTERIORS • FOCUS

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_DEC_2020_DOGS_HOMES_PH.indd 103

103

23/11/2020 16:32

CURTAIN CALL

INSPIRED INTERIORS NOW RE-OPEN

Our redesigned and extended showroom is now open, incorporating a large Luxaflex design studio showing the latest motorised blinds, nestled alongside nearly new curtains and a huge choice of fabrics to be made to measure as curtains and blinds Please call for Showroom appointments

Opening Hours: Tues-Sat 10am to 5pm • Closed Wed from 1pm 52 Friars Stile Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6NQ 020 8332 6250 • curtaincall@blueyonder.co.uk

CURTAIN CALL MAY.V2.indd 1

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 6

22/07/2020 14:20

20/11/2020 14:10

INTERIORS • FOCUS This space illustrates the mix of their tastes: the focal point of the Tepee sofa

by Lucy Kurrein in orange, the Norman Cherner walnut plywood chair, the mix of Moroccan rugs from A New Tribe, and other individually sourced pieces.

“Peggy particularly loves the sofas: the Tepee sofa is by SCP designer Lucy Kurrein” their friend Stephen among others—it sounds as if she has quite a following.

For a longer trip or vacation, she goes to Nottingham to stay with Ella’s mother.

Ella and Magnus moved into their 100-year-old three-bedroom terraced house in Walthamstow two years ago. The house has a roof extension and a kitchen addition at the back. At the back of the house there is a train line, but thanks to the fairly long garden it’s hardly visible. Magnus and Ella completely gutted the property; it was in a very sad state and all the original features had already been removed, so they didn’t feel bad about knocking everything down.

When they first moved in, the bathroom was in the middle of the ground floor and it still had the original outside window. The renovation has been a labor of love and the overall effect is truly stunning; the attention to detail is remarkable and everything is well considered, extremely unique, and quite

P

eggy is a seven-yearold Lurcher, a breed which is typically a cross between a Sighthound and a Terrier.

Her owners, Ella and Magnus, found Peggy at Lurcher SOS in Surrey. Lurchers are becoming popular as pets as they are very laid-back and, like Peggy, prefer a warm bed to anything else. However, they do like to chase, as is their reputation, and Peggy will go after a squirrel if she gets half a chance.

Ella owns a shop called A New Tribe in Hackney, and Peggy goes there with her most days. When Peggy is not in the shop, she goes to a local dog walker, Tails and Shells. This gives her the chance to socialize with other dogs and get stimulation and exercise—it’s a fun day for her away from the shop. If Ella and Magnus go away, Peggy has no shortage of weekend minders, including

The Vitsœ shelving unit—designed in 1960 and still being manufactured today—can be customized as required

The entrance is very cleverly contained by a glass paneled wall allowing light to enter through the unique stained glass.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_DEC_2020_DOGS_HOMES_PH.indd 105

105

23/11/2020 16:34

Churchill

C U R TA I N C L E A N I N G S E R V I C E S

When only the best really matters Churchill Curtain Cleaning Services are London’s leading specialist cleaners of interlined curtains, drapes, swags and tails, pelmets, fabric blinds, nets and voiles using advanced cleaning and finishing equipment and employing skilled and security checked personnel.

NO SHRINKAGE GUARANTEE

Working in London’s finest homes and business premises since 1963.

Recommended and endorsed by leading designers, curtain makers and stores.

Churchill remains a market leader, proud of a client base that reflects it’s own standards.

30 Kings Road, London E4 7JE

020 7225 2323

info@curtaincleaners.com curtaincleaners.com

CCC_V2.indd 1

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 7

22/07/2020 14:23

20/11/2020 14:10

INTERIORS • FOCUS The strong blue wall, coupled with the plants and pots, gives the effect of making you feel as if you were in Morocco.

unexpected. I left the house feeling very inspired.

The style is quite eclectic, and Ella and Magnus like to mix designer classics, such as Vitsoe shelving and a vintage Bachelor chair by Verner Panton, with pieces they love. They have many of their own designs, originally sourced for the shop, and items collected on travels to Morocco when buying for the store. Magnus is a product designer and this has played a useful part in finding bespoke light fittings and furniture during the restoration process. Peggy particularly loves the sofas: the Tepee sofa is by SCP designer Lucy Kurrein, and the mud cloth sofa is upholstered with fabric that was bought in Morocco.

The house is a masterstroke of unique design—what was a sad, unloved, almost derelict cottage is now eclectic midcentury modern with an underpinning of North African culture. The color combinations are unusual and unexpected but so clever that you can’t fail to be inspired and encouraged to mix together different styles yourself. Peggy is the perfect pet to have in this home—like everything around her, she is beautiful and unique.

Cool Dogs, Cool Homes by Geraldine James, published by CICO Books (£19.99) Photography by James Gardiner © CICO Books

READER OFFER

In the master bedroom hangs the most splendid raffia lampshade, a very dramatic statement in a room that has soft tones and eclectic art pieces.

Readers can buy a copy of Cool Dogs, Cool Homes by Geraldine James for the special price of £14 (RRP £19.99),To order go to rylandpeters.com and use code COOLDOGS14 at checkout. Offer valid until 15 January 2021.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_DEC_2020_DOGS_HOMES_PH.indd 107

107

23/11/2020 16:35

CLASSIC CASSEROLES

DEEP TEAL

D I S H D E L U X E Le Creuset’s newly refurbished Marylebone store is the brand’s UK flagship

By EVE HERBERT

108

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

ABS_Nov20_Le Creuset_DPS_PH.indd 108

20/11/2020 09:59

INTERIORS • SPOTLIGHT

L

e Creuset’s Marylebone store was the French cookware icon’s first London outpost, opened in 2010. It’s the UK flagship store and as such it was designed to showcase a leading representation of the brand’s product range, while also maintaining the listed building’s original features. Its recent refurbishment improves the space significantly.

Although the store has a small footprint, opening up all areas as much as possible has allowed a much greater feeling of natural light and space than before.

The shopfront is listed and therefore cannot be altered; however, the team have rejuvenated it to frame the view into the bright new interior. Le Creuset installed their latest concept furniture system and new finishes, creating a personal shopping area in the basement where customers can discuss/review product options and ranges over coffee and a chat. A bespoke colour swatch board and media wall display the latest Le Creuset stories, products and recipes.

The basement's wallpaper was designed by the Le Creuset group architects and printed specifically for this space. There’s

THE MARYLEBONE STORE

“Every piece of cast iron is uniquely cast in sand moulds”

INSIDE THE MARYLEBONE STORE

a foundry display area, which shows the process of the cast iron manufacture in Fresnoy-le-Grand, France, from raw material to finished product. This includes an original 1925 casserole, which stands next to the latest casserole for comparison.

On the ground floor is a demonstration kitchen area, so once the Covid restrictions have been lifted, the team will be able to hold demonstration cooking events for the local community and customers to enjoy.

Renowned for its high-performing and timeless cookware, Le Creuset's quality products are the ultimate kitchen companions. Signature Cast Iron and Stoneware pieces will add a pop of colour to your home, while the stylishly designed Toughened NonStick and 3-ply Stainless Steel items are the workhorses of the kitchen.

Le Creuset cast iron was founded in 1925 in France, where it is still handcrafted today. Every piece is individually cast in a sand mould that is used only once and later broken, making each piece unique with its own style and identity. Crafted from the highest quality materials, every Le Creuset cast iron product passes through the hands of at least 40 skilled craftsmen – each piece is carefully finished and inspected to ensure the exceptional quality that is reassuringly covered with a lifetime guarantee.

LE CREUSET CLASSIC CASSEROLES

6 New Cavendish Street W1 lecreuset.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_Nov20_Le Creuset_DPS_PH.indd 109

109

20/11/2020 10:00

HAJ.indd 20

19/11/2020 11:39

INTERIORS • TOP FIVE

1 1

T H E H A N G O F I T CREATE ATMOSPHERE WITH A PENDANT LIGHT

BR AID BAR FERM LIVING

The Braided Belly Lampshades are braided by hand from rattan and will provide a lovely and natural light source in a room.

Hang it from the ceiling above your dinner table or use it as a focal point in a corner. £119 fermliving.com

2

SPIRIT LEVEL

YO U N G & B AT TA G L I A

2 3

The King Edison Ghost pendant lamp designed by Young & Battaglia consists of a miniature brass chandelier inside a hand-blown black glass shade giving the chandelier glimpsed inside a ghostly feel. £504 mineheart.com

3

PA I S L E Y PA R K MIND THE GAP

Transylvanian design house Mind The Gap's maximalist prints look great on the range of pendant lamps and lampshades. From £180 mindtheg.com

4

G R E AT DA N E

4

DY B E R G L A R S E N

Bring a touch of cool Danish design to your interior with the stylish smoked glass Polo pendant by Dyberg Larsen.

It's a retro feel ceiling pendant lamp which becomes a natural centerpiece in any room. £147 limelace.co.uk

5

O PA L F R U I T DAV E Y L I G H T I N G

5

The Pine Pendant is an elegant focal point, its opal glass hand blown to create a classic and enduring shape.

Ceramic and weathered brass fittings gives a cutting edge design of premium quality. £299 d-lite.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_TOP 5 LAMPS_PH.indd 111

111

20/11/2020 12:15

Hingstons Of Wilton Purveyors of Antiques and decorative items (est.1976)

�e Old Bell House, 2 Sha�tesbury Road, Wilton, Salisbury, SP2 0DR 01722 742263 | nick@hingstons-antiques.co.uk www.hingstons-antiques.co.uk

HOW.indd 1

19/11/2020 11:38

INTERIORS • PROMOTION

Sale

SEASON Create an inspired home in the BoConcept Winter Design Sale

“Infusing your space with personality is easier than you think”

A

t BoConcept you'll find a vast range of contemporary Danish design furniture, accessories and lighting for the living room, dining room, bedroom, home office and outdoor spaces.

Their furniture stores offer everything within modern design ranging from designer sofas and armchairs to practical wall units and functional TV units.

This festive season BoConcept is hosting an unmissable Winter Design Sale with up to 50% on all their premium ex-display items and up to 20% off contemporary furniture and coordinated accessories to order.

Infusing your space with personality is quicker and easier than you may think.

A personal home will not only help you embody the feeling of inspiration and relaxation — it will also enrich your lifestyle. So, whether you want a cosy home or a social haven, nearly every

piece can be customised to suit your unique taste and needs. There are endless possibilities behind everything you see.

Bo Concept's teams of interior designers and design consultants will help you make the most out of your space with their unique designer furniture range.

Whether you’re looking for a single item or redesigning your entire house, BoConcept's free interior design service is perfect for you. Get tailored style guidance from your personal BoConcept Interior Designer in-store or at home. They can take measurements, propose layouts, create remarkable 3D visualisations, suggest fabrics and give friendly noobligation advice – guiding you to your home’s perfect look. The entire collection can be personalised exactly to your needs and taste in a spectrum of colours, sizes, materials and finishes. All that choice can be daunting, so BoConcept has created a free interior design service. You’ll receive a consultation in-store and at home, plus 3D renderings of your space.

BO CONCEPT To book your free design service or to save up to 50% off on stunning danish design furniture and accessories, visit BoConcept Battersea Reach, Harrods, Finchley Road, Notting Hill, Tottenham Court Road, Guildford, Kingston or Westfield. boconcept.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_Jan20_ADVL_Bo Concept.indd 113

113

20/11/2020 17:02

VENNICI.indd 20

19/11/2020 14:46

SPECI A L ISSUE

absolutely-mama.co.uk

SEASONS GREETINGS

In this section:

This special edition of Absolutely Mama is all about making your family Christmas special, even though things might be a little bit different this year. We have the best gifts for babies, kids, mums and dads – many of which are from independent brands.

We also have magical festive décor and tips on how to make your celebrations more eco friendly. Enjoy!

CHRISTMAS GIFTS Presents for all the family • DECK THE HALLS Making Christmas magical • GREEN TIDINGS Celebrating the eco way • LET’S PARTY Festive style for little ones

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_MAMA_COVER_DEC20_indd_CG.indd 115

115

20/11/2020 14:20

JAPANA.indd 20

19/11/2020 11:53

mam a WELCOME

MAMA LOVES P.118

KIDS FASHION NOTES P.132

Editor’s

LETTER

I

love the run up to Christmas and all the little rituals that help to get you in the spirit. For me, this year there will be no trip to Liberty’s Christmas Shop to marvel at the decorations under the twinkling fairy lights, no visit to Columbia Road Flower Market to hunt down festive flora and fauna. I’ll be very much relying on the little traditions at home to keep the magic alive instead. With this in mind, this special edition of Absolutely Mama is all about creating the best family Christmas you can, even if you might not be able to celebrate in the same way that you usually would.

Making the house feel magical will be important this festive season, so we asked Coral Atkinson, founder of Velveteen Babies, to share her decorating tips. And at the end of a year that has seen our priorities shift so dramatically, many of us will be thinking about how we can make our celebrations more eco-friendly. For ideas on how you can reuse, recycle and ditch the plastic, read our interview with the founder of Just Maison, Cassie Chung.

Finally, supporting independent businesses is more important than ever right now. If you plan to shop small, check out our brilliant Christmas gift guides, which are full of ideas for all the family, many of which are from mama-run businesses. Enjoy and Merry Christmas!

GIFTS FOR MUMS P.121

DECK THE HALLS P.134

GIFTS FOR KIDS P.126

GREEN FESTIVITIES P.138

C a rly Gl e n di n n i n g E DITOR

@carlyjglendinning carly@zest-media.com

GIFTS FOR DADS P.123

ON THE COVER: @binibamba binibamba.com GIFTS FOR BABIES P.124

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_MAMA_Dec2020_EDS LETTER_CG.indd 117

117

23/11/2020 15:34

10 things we Absolutely

LOV E The products and brands getting our attention this month

CARRY ME

Snuggly Season

STUDIO ROMEO X BINIBAMBA Studio Romeo and Binibamba have come together to create a snuggly sheepskin liner for the UP & GO Carrier. Equal parts cosy and stylish, the liner comes in a giftready dustbag. Liner €95; studio-romeo.com

GRAY LABE L A festive season spent (mostly) indoors calls for comfy basics.

Gray Label’s minimalist collection is made from the softest organic cotton fleece and the tonal colour palette makes it easy to mix and match. gray-label.com

G E T C O SY

BONNET À P OM PON How adorable are these knitted bloomers from Bonnet à Pompon? A sweet first Chritsmas gift for the littlest ones this festive season. €39.90; bonnetapompon.com

118

Festive Dressing O RGA N IC ZO O Christmas Day outfits don’t get much cuter than these pieces from Organic Zoo. With no festive motifs in sight, you’ll be able to get wear out of them after the big day as well. organic-zoo.com

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

ABS_Mama_Dec20_10 THINGS.indd 118

23/11/2020 16:18

ma m a LOVE S

Let’s Party

G RAC E LOV E S L AC E Wedding dress makers Grace Loves Lace have launched a collection of mini-me designs that work just as well for party season as going down the aisle. Each beautiful piece is made from the off-cuts of wedding gowns. graceloveslace.com

HEY MAMAS

BEYOND N IN E If you’re expecting this festive season, check out the new collection from Beyond Nine. It’s full of easy-to-wear pieces that can be worn during pregnancy and also post-partum. beyondnine.co.uk

BUILD UP

RA DU GA G R EZ A Christmas present that has longlasting appeal, this stacking tower is good for developing motor skills and will also look great on their bedroom shelf. It’s handmade from eco-friendly materials too. £42; moonpicnic.com

LET IT S N OW

Deck the Halls

NOT ON TH E H I G H STR E E T Make their room feel a little bit more festive with this wire sign from Not on the High Street. Just as good for grown-up spaces too. £40; notonthehighstreet.com

M O N KIN D We love the minimalist prints and subtle nod to Christmas in the colour palette at Berlin-based brand Monkind.

Easy-to-wear and perfect for a festive season holed up at home. monkind.com

or’s Editick P

Winter Wonderland ARK ET We’re all about festive decorations that you can reuse year after year. This paper tree from ARKET folds down flat, making storage easy. £12; arket.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_Mama_Dec20_10 THINGS.indd 119

119

23/11/2020 16:19

NATURAL FOR BABY Organic • Natural baby & toddler gifts and essentials Currently running as an online only shop, Click and Collect

MONDAY - SATURDAY 10:00 - 17:00 78 Balham High Road SW12 9AG www.naturalforbaby.london N4M.indd 1

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 8

19/11/2020 13:12

23/11/2020 11:57

mama GIFT

BINIBAMBA Rose Buggy Mittens, £79; binibamba.com

a Mames lov

GUIDE

OBADIAH COFFEE Kenya Blend, £16; cissywears.com

KENKÔ Mother & Baby Body Oil £22; cissywears.com

MERCI MAMAN Personalised Disc Necklace, from £79; mercimamanboutique.com

JEM + BEA Eco Stroller Organiser, £49; jemandbea.com

ME & MAEVE GRACE Christmas Pyjamas, from £26 meandmaevegrace.com

gif ts for

EYM Mellow Candle, £39; eymnaturals.com

MUM Covet-worthy gifts we're adding to our wishlists

SIX Maternity Underwear, from £35 six-studio.com

or's Editick p

PLANET ORGANIC Motherhood Tee, £36; organic-zoo.com

WONDER & RAH Personalised Gingham Print, from £18; wonderandrah.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

Mama_Dec20_Mum Gift Guide_CG.indd 121

121

20/11/2020 15:49

JJ.indd 20

20/11/2020 11:53

mama GIFT

THE BRIGHT COMPANY Mens PJ Bottoms, £24; thebrightcompany.uk

GUIDE

DAK COFFEE ROASTERS La Pila Guatemala, £17.50; just.maison

NOT ON THE HIGH STREET Coffee Pot, £24; notonthehighstret.com

DESIGN LETTERS Favourite Cup, £20; royaldesign.co.uk

LOLA JAMES HARPER Candle, £35; cissywears.com

KONOC Keyring, £18.95 scandiborn.co.uk

a Mames v lo

gif ts for

DAD

or's Editick p URBANEARS Pampas Earphones, £129.99; urbanears.com

Stylish picks for the man in your life

ARKET Chunky Wool Beanie, £35; arket.com OCELOT Eggnog Chocolate, £5; ocelotchocolate.com

MICRALITE DayPak Changing Bag, £65; micralite.com

AESOP Post Poo Drops, £20; aesop.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_Mama_Dec20_Dads Gift Guide_USE_CG.indd 123

123

23/11/2020 16:04

a Mames v lo OEUF NYC Embroidered Crown, £47; oeufnyc.com

WOOD LITTLE Baby Walker, £41; alexandalexa.com

LYNDSEY GRIBBLE Personalised Bauble, £10; wildseacalligraphy.com

POLAR POST Baby’s First Christmas Letter, £20.95; polarpost.co.uk

ECO FRIENDLY

OYOY Rainbow Abacus, £44; oyoylivingdesign.co.uk

gif ts for

BABIES

HEVEA Made from pure natural rubber and up-cycled rubber wood, this stacker and pull toy will make your mini's footprint a bit greener this Christmas.

Great for hand-eye coordination and motor skills. €40 heveaplanet.com

Adorable presents for baby's first Christmas

HAMPERS BY LAUREN Cashmere Blanket, £489.99; hampersbylauren.com

or's Editick p

NATURAL FOR BABY Rocking Unicorn Carousel, £79.95; naturalforbaby.london

LITTLE DUTCH Playgym, £41.95; scandiborn.co.uk

MIFFY SHOP Miffy Recycled Plush, £21.99; miffyshop.co.uk

124

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

ABS_Mama_Dec20_Babies Gift Guide_USE.indd 124

23/11/2020 15:43

mama GIFT

THE WOODLIFE PROJECT Jigsaw Reindeer Plate, £42.50; thewoodlifeproject.com

GUIDE

5 of the be s t

BY SOFIE Little Hoppa 3-in-1, From £399; bysofieofficial.com

WO ODEN TOYS

1

THE LITTLE GREEN SHEEP Baby Playmat, £29.95; thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

SEBRA Wooden Scooter, £159.95; scandiborn.co.uk

LE TOY VAN Bunny Train, £36; bluealmonds.co.uk

STARRY NIGHT

LE TOY VAN Bunny Train, £36; bluealmonds.co.uk

SNUZ With a clever Nappy Change zip, the cosy SnüzPouch Sleeping Bag helps little ones (and parents!) get better night's sleep. Which is definitely all we want for Christmas this year! From £29.95. snuz.co.uk

LIEWOOD Cuddle Cloths, From €20 each; liewood.com

2 4

3

5

1. Liewood, Wooden Puzzle, £38; themodernnursery.com

2. Kids Concept, Nature Puzzle, £17.90; alexandalexa.com 3. Janod, Stacking Stones, £34; acornandpip.com 4. Sebra, Singing Birds Puzzle, £30.49; trouva.com 5. Little Dutch, Wooden Rainbow, £19.50; scandiborn.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_Mama_Dec20_Babies Gift Guide_USE.indd 125

125

23/11/2020 15:47

MERI MERI Glitter Star Hairband, £15; merimeri.co.uk

PICCA LOU LOU Fairy, £24; mollymeg.com

NOBODINOZ Moon Cushion, £18; themodernnursery.com

LEITH & GRAY Gift Box, £38; leithandgray.co.uk

KONGES SLØJD Food Box, £49.95; sorenshouse.co.uk

gif ts for

PLAN TOYS Dolls House, £245.95 scandiborn.co.uk

KIDS

JANOD Little Pastry set, £24.99; hellobabydirect.com

Presents to light up little faces on Christmas morning

or's Editick p

DJECO Zig and Go Kit, £24.99; brightminds.co.uk

FLEXA Rose Kitchen, £154.95; scandiborn.co.uk QUARTO Little People, BIG DREAMS: Black Voices, £25; blackwells.co.uk

126

STOY Kick Bike, £42; alexandalexa.com

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

ABS_Mama_Dec20_Kids Gift Guide_USE_CG.indd 126

23/11/2020 16:10

mama GIFT

a Mames lov

GUIDE

5 of the be s t

CHRISTMAS PJ'S NOT ON THE HIGHSTREET Kids Play Den Tablecloth, £105; notonthehighstreet.com

1

PLAN TOYS Wooden Drum Set, £250; acornandpip.com

MAILEG Hiker Mouse, £29.95; scandiborn.co.uk

2

3 4

LOLA LOTS OF LOVELY ART Upcycled Christmas Art Box, £27; lotsoflovelyart.org

FABELAB Christmas Stocking, £23; kidly.co.uk

5

1. Melo + Marl X Polar Post, Pyjamas, £55; meloandmarl.com

SEBRA Dolls Pram, £119.95; scandiborn.co.uk

2. The Bright Company, Slim Jyms, £30; thebrightcompany.uk

3. Little Yolke, Leopard Silk Pyjamas, £180; yolke.co.uk 4. MORI, Snoozy Pyjamas, From £32.50; babymori.com 5. Pepa & Co., Boys Classic Striped Pyjamas, £58; pepaandcompany.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_Mama_Dec20_Kids Gift Guide_USE_CG.indd 127

127

23/11/2020 16:11

T H E U LT I M AT E

Festive Gifts The most magical Christmas gift ideas for little ones this festive season...

DISNEY MAGIC IGLOO

G

ive the ultimate gift of Disney with this deluxe, 15-book special edition slipcase set featuring some of Disney and Pixar's most treasured characters.

Pull back the shimmering silver doors to find a magical Disney scene waiting for you within!

Then join Belle, Woody, Olaf, Simba and many more familiar faces in a collection of enchanting tales full of love, friendship and adventure that can be enjoyed over and over again.

This incredible collection is the perfect addition to any child's Disney library.

Slipcase features a magnetic closure and 15 beautifully illustrated storybooks brought together for the first time. £74.85;

Set includes: Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, The Little Mermaid, Tinkerbell and the Secret of the Wings, Lady and the Tramp, The Jungle Book, The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Finding Nemo, Toy Story 4, Tangled, The Incredibles 2, Frozen, Cars 3 and Frozen 2. amazon.co.uk

Splish Splash HEV EA

B

ath time is the perfect occasion for children and parents to have fun and play and we are sure that we’ve just found their new best underwater friends. If you want children to have non-toxic fun in the pool or bathtub, you’ve got to meet the adorable HEVEA® Ingolf the whale & Dagmar the turtle. Made from natural rubber, little ones will have hours of fun with this set that can splash water – just like the living animals in the oceans! You can also use them to scoop and pour water again and again and again. €25; heveaplanet.com

128

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

ABS_MAMA_December20_LISTINGS (Conflicted copy from Michael Roberts’s iMac on 2020-11-20).indd 128

23/11/2020 14:53

mama CHRISTMAS

MAKING MUSIC THE SCHOOL OF RHYTHM

E

ducational, exhilarating, hip & life changing!

The School of Rhythm Christmas Vouchers are always a winner.

Children and adults of all levels are guided step by step to discover the secrets and intricacies of Drumming. State-ofthe-art music studios - or online - Trinity College and Rock School Grades 1-8.

Est. 2001 in South- East London. This Christmas, offer the Joy of Creation. schoolofrhythm.com

STYLISH STEPS YOUNG SOLES

Y

oung Soles brings British heritage and contemporary styling to children’s shoes, all of their retro-cool footwear stays true to the brand’s ethos of evoking childhood memories.

Acknowledging childhood trends and borrowing from memories, music, or a style movement, Young Soles take inspiration from many sources, but always stays true to their brand by giving them their own magical twist.

Designed in East London and made in Europe using the highest quality materials. With styles that complement a variety of outfits your child will look and feel like the coolest kid in town.

We love them, we think you will too. youngsoles.london

First Christmas F RU G I

F

rugi’s super-soft, GOTS certified organic cotton Buzzy Bee Baby Gift Set is a gorgeous collection of unisex baby essentials presented in a handy drawstring bag. Available for just £25 (worth £37), the long-sleeved babygrow

is fully poppered for easy dressing, has double layered cosy feet to protect tiny toes, and has fold-back scratch mitts to help prevent scrapes. With a sweet bumble bee print on the front, the coordinating short-sleeved body has a clever, easy-toopen envelope neck that can be pulled down over baby's body instead of the head. The matching Buzzy Bee knotted hat is the perfect finishing touch. £25; welovefrugi.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_MAMA_December20_LISTINGS (Conflicted copy from Michael Roberts’s iMac on 2020-11-20).indd 129

129

23/11/2020 15:17

EDX.indd 20

20/11/2020 11:50

mama CHRISTMAS

Dressing Up

TWINKLY TOES

T

T

MAMAS & PAPAS

he Mamas & Papas Christmas clothing range is filled with festive fun for your little one, with cute winter characters and merry prints. Discover everything from special party pieces to adorable Christmas Eve outfits – all designed to be super-snuggly and crafted using soft cotton and toasty knits.

Available at mamasandpapas.com

EARLY DAYS

hey look beautiful – perfect for any occasion and in a myriad of colours to complement any outfit. That’s not the whole story though – whether they are pre-walkers with soft soles or first walkers with a more structured sole, Early Days shoes are wide fitting to allow little toes to wriggle without pinching and they give support where it’s needed to aid those first steps. Traditionally made in the UK since 1952 (the shoe of choice for the young royals), and hand finished, there is no better gift you could give to your baby.

For the full collection, visit earlydays.ltd.uk

PERFECT PRESENTS M A M AS & PA PAS

W

hether it’s watching your little one’s face fill with wonder as they tear open wrapping paper, or finding a way to give something back to someone who was there in an hour of need, Mamas & Papas have Christmas in the bag this year. The Mamas & Papas Christmas gifting range is filled with beautiful toys and festive accessories to make Christmas magical. Discover everything from rocking horses to beautiful keepsakes celebrating your little one’s first Christmas.

Available at mamasandpapas.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_MAMA_December20_LISTINGS (Conflicted copy from Michael Roberts’s iMac on 2020-11-20).indd 131

131

23/11/2020 14:53

kid s

FA S H I O N NOTES Carly Glendinning rounds up the month’s best styles, looks and launches

LET ’S PA R T Y N E L L I E Q UAT S

we love

Traditional festive style doesn’t get much sweeter than the collection of Liberty-print dresses from Nellie Quats.

The sort of pieces you’ll want to pass down and will be loved for years to come. nelliequats.com

SHINE ON PETIT NORD

These adorable scalloped edged boots are our top footwear pick this Christmas.

Handmade from 100% ecological, vegetable tanned, chrome free and biodegradable leather, the soles are flexible and made from recycled TR rubber. petitnord.com

Sweet Dreams AMIKI CHILDREN

Perfect for the night before Christmas, Amiki Children’s sleepwear collection is so pretty it could be worn as party wear as well. We love the romantic flowing shapes, delicate detailing and luxurious fabrics. amikichildren.com

132

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

ABS_Mama_Dec20_KIDS FASHION NOTES_CG.indd 132

23/11/2020 16:57

mama KIDS

Get Cosy

FASHION

nd Bra us Foc

IL GUFO

Italian brand Il Gufo’s special pieces are perfect for the festive season. Keep little ones cosy in mohair knits, fluffy faux fur coats and don’t forget to check out their occasion wear collection too. ilgufo.com

THE BONNIE MOB Sustainable knitwear for little ones...

L I T T L E S TA R S

K

MIMI & LULA

From hair clips, bows and ponies to fairy wings and capes, Mimi & Lula has a brilliant selection of finishing touches to make their party outfits extra special. This star headband is one of our favourites. mimiandlula.com

5 o f t he b e st D RE S S I N G U P

IL GUFO Dress, £118; ilgufo.com MERI MERI Star Wand, £12; merimeri.co.uk

FUB Jacquard Sweater, €80; fub.dk

YOUNG SOLES Rosie T Bar Shoes, £74; youngsoles.london

ARKET Corduroy Trousers, £25; arket.com

nitwear designer Tracey Samuel learnt her craft alongside the greats, studying with the likes of Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney at Central Saint Martins. After graduating, she spent 10 years at Sonia Rykiel, living between Paris and London before motherhood signalled it was time to settle in one location. After the birth of her daughter Alice-Bee, Samuel was inspired to launch a knitwear brand for little ones that she named Bonnie baby – a nod to her Scottish roots. Her brightly coloured designs quickly gained a cult following and she could name A listers such as Gywneth Paltrow amongst her clientele. The brand became The bonnie mob after expanding to include pieces for little ones up to 7 years. Today, The bonnie mob has stockists around the world, but it has always stayed true to its core values. Samuel believes in letting kids be kids, and her pieces are made to be loved and passed on, with sustainability at the heart of the brand. As joyful and fun as the very first pieces she designed straight out of Sonia Rykiel, the current collection is full of whimsical motifs and happy colour combinations that can’t fail to make you smile.

Samuel has also partnered with Zoë de Pass, aka Dress Like a Mum, on two very cool beanie hat designs for kids and mamas. thebonniemob.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_Mama_Dec20_KIDS FASHION NOTES_CG.indd 133

133

23/11/2020 16:57

“xxx xx xx xx xx

xx xx xx xx xx xx xx xx xx

xx xx xx xx xx xx xx xx xx xx xx x x”

01

DECK THE HALLS Coral Atkinson, founder of Velveteen Babies on her family’s Christmas plans...

I n t e r v i e w C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

134

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

_MAMA_Dec2020_CHRISTMAS DECOR CORAL_CG.indd 134

20/11/2020 14:17

ma m a DÉCOR

“I've gone for a

white and pastel extravaganza this year ”

C

02

03

oral Atkinson is the founder of children’s interiors brand Velveteen Babies. She lives in Yorkshire with her husband and their three children, Felix, Barney and Willa. Here, she shares her family’s Christmas plans and talks about everything from how she plans to decorate the house, to what’s on Santa’s sleigh.

calendar – I fill the little bags with small treats and chocolates and we take it in turns to do that each day. Ours is from Scandiborn and I’ve got some pretty hair clips from Rockahula for Willa’s days on it.

We all love decorating the tree – ours was from Next although we’ll probably sneak a real one in somewhere too, and I try my best not to be a control freak over it! Every year we add a few new decorations and ours are by Meri Meri and a few Velveteen Babies garlands too! I’ve also got a brilliant Gathre mat from Scandiborn for it to sit on.

Q How do you plan to celebrate Christmas this year and will anything be different during the pandemic?

A We’ll be at home as usual, though normally our house is the hub of the extended family, this year our celebrations will no doubt be smaller than usual, but I’ll try my best to bring as much magic as possible.

Q How will you be decorating the house and your Christmas table?

A I’ve gone for a white and pastel extravaganza this year, non traditional but really magical. I discovered papersnowflake.co.uk last year and filled our kitchen with them, they are amazing!

For the table, more beautiful Meri Meri treasures and festive table favours by PLAYin CHOC, they’ve done a gorgeous Christmas set which the kids will love.

I used to be a VM for a department store and creating the Christmas

Q What are your family’s favourite Christmas traditions and how do you get ready for the festive season?

A Everyone loves their turn at our advent

01 Rockahula, Reindeer Ears, £8; rockahulakids.com | Meri Meri, Wings, £32; merimeri.co.uk | Velveteen Babies, Garland, £37; velveteenbabies.co.uk | Paper Snowflake, 3D Tree, £4.95; papersnowflake.co.uk 02 Meri Meri, Crown, £12.50; merimeri.co.uk | Meri Meri, Wings, £32; merimeri.co.uk | Meri Meri, Angel Toy, £45; merimeri.co.uk | Meri Meri, selection of tree decorations, from £12 each; merimeri.co.uk | Velveteen Babies, Garland, £40; velveteenbabies.co.uk | Next, Christmas Tree, £50; next.co.uk 03 Paper Snowflake, 3D Tree, £4.95; papersnowflake.co.uk | Meri Meri, Plates, from £8.25; merimeri.co.uk | Meri Meri, Fringe Crackers, £23; merimeri. co.uk | Meri Meri, Reindeer Crackers, £23; merimeri.co.uk | Meri Meri, Star Spool, £10; merimeri.co.uk | Meri Meri, Cups, £5; merimeri.co.uk | Meri Meri, Napkins, £4.50; merimeri. co.uk | Lights4Fun, Star Lights, £14.99; lights4fun.co.uk | Gathre, Mat, £79.95; scandiborn.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

_MAMA_Dec2020_CHRISTMAS DECOR CORAL_CG (Conflicted copy from Michael Roberts’s iMac on 2020-11-20).indd 135

135

23/11/2020 16:28

Ready for the next adventure!

Expert nutritional support from Wellkid®

s Mult i-vit

Omega-3

Vitamin D

Pro-tum

Delicious vegan soft jellies that kids will love.

Multi-vits including vitamins A, C, D, as recommended by the UK Department of Health1

•

For children aged 3-7 years old. If you feel like you’re missing out, Wellkid® Peppa PigTM can be taken by older age groups too!

2020-11-20_ADWKDPPCONP_E

•

V.indd 20

my™*

* With c a lc iu m contr wh fu n c tio ibutes to the n ich n of d ig o e s ti ve e rm a l nz ymes .

From , Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, chemists, supermarkets and www.wellkid.com/peppapig

FROM UK’s

†

1 Source NHS.co.uk †Source: Nielsen GB ScanTrack Total Coverage Value and Unit Retail Sales 52 w/e 8 Aug 2020. To verify contact Vitabiotics Ltd, 1 Apsley Way, London, NW2 7HF. © ABD Ltd/Ent. One UK Ltd 2003.

23/11/2020 16:26

ma m a DÉCOR

“We stay fairly

traditional, but I do insist on extra pigs in blankets” windows was always the highlight of my year – hanging beautiful lighting reminds me of that time and I always go to Lights4fun online for all that twinkles.

Q What is Santa bringing on his sleigh this year?

A Willa has a dreamy doll’s pram and Maileg mice from Scandiborn at the ready, I’m already excited to see her face when she opens them! I love Scandiborn for all the kids, it’s always my go-to for gifts for them.

Willa loves little trinkets and accessories so I have some lovely hair accessories from Rockahula for her stocking and her Angel doll from Meri Meri will enjoy a ride in the new pram, and she’ll be sashaying about in her wings all day no doubt too.

04 05 04 Velveteen Babies, Garland, £37 | The Bright Company, Slim Jyms Pyjamas, £30; thebrightcompany.uk | Meri Meri, Angel Toy, £45; merimeri.co.uk | Lights4Fun, Star Light Bundle, £26.99; lights4fun.co.uk | OYOY Living Design, Butterfly Wings, £57; oyoylivingdesign.co.uk 05 Rockahula, Reindeer Ears, £8; rockahulakids.com | Cam Cam Copenhagen, Advent Calendar, £45.95; scandiborn. com | Meri Meri, Crown, £12.50; merimeri.co.uk | Meri Meri, Wings, £32; merimeri.co.uk | The Middle Daughter, Dress, £65; themiddledaughter.co.uk | PLAYin Choc, ToyChoc Box Christmas Set, £17.50; playinchoc. com | Lights4Fun, Star Lights, £14.99; lights4fun.co.uk

Q Who’s in charge of cooking lunch and what will you be eating?

A I’m in charge but quite enjoy the challenge, and I like being near to the fridge for a festive tipple to get me through. We stay fairly traditional but I do insist on extra pigs in blankets and I’m never without Yorkshire puddings on Christmas day!

Q Christmas PJ’s or party outfits?

A My kids would live in PJ’s given the opportunity, so Christmas PJ’s all the way.

The Bright Company is always my go-to and this year I’ve gone for the beautiful moon design. They last forever and are the best quality. Willa has got some beautiful dresses from The Middle Daughter and Smock London so she’ll have plenty of opportunities for a few outfit changes!!

Q And finally, favourite Christmas indulgence?

A A large glass of Baileys on ice as soon as the children are fast asleep in bed!

C O R A L AT K I N S O N Founder of children's interiors brand Velveteen Babies and mama-of-three @velveteen_babies, @coral.atkinson

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

_MAMA_Dec2020_CHRISTMAS DECOR CORAL_CG.indd 137

137

20/11/2020 14:19

02

01

Green

T I D I N G S

Cassie Chung, founder of Just Maison and mama of three on how to make this Christmas more eco friendly...

C

assie Chung lives in Wales with her husband Jason and their three children, Lyssia, Emmy and Mio. She is the founder of interiors lifestyle store Just Maison. Here, she tells us how she will be making this festive season more eco-friendly and shares her tips.

Ditching the Plastic

03

138

The last few years I’ve tried to make a conscious effort to choose our presents carefully and have made the choice to buy less plastic toys. Choosing wooden toys for the play kitchen over plastic toys and spending that little bit more on wooden

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

_MAMA_Dec2020_ECO CHRISTMAS CASSIE CHUNG_CG.indd 138

23/11/2020 15:38

m a m a ECO

05

Cassie Chung with her three children

04

“Most small stores have a range of

sustainable and eco friendly products” items means that toys will last and can be handed down through the siblings. We have wooden play food that Mio now plays with, that the girls had when they were young.

We find most of ours through independent stores on Instagram, or Etsy is another good platform to find sustainable toys and independent makers. Over the years I have filled their Christmas stockings with little bits like, wooden yoyos or spinning tops.

These gifts are either still being played with or are sitting on shelves in their rooms, displayed with their other keepsake items.

Shopping Independent I’ve always supported my local small businesses and after joining Instagram eight years ago, I realised that there was

a world of other shops out there. Most of our gifts, cards and wrapping are from small shops or even a gift voucher for those tricky family members or teachers at the end of term. You will find that most small stores have a range of sustainable and eco friendly products too. I always make it my mission every year to find the most unusual or quirky gifts for family, and independent shops never disappoint.

Recycling Paper & Cards Nothing goes to waste in our house, any tags that have been left aside will get reused. Emmy loves crafting so any twine that is given is used again, we’ve also used old wrapping paper to decorate shoe box houses for toys or to

01 Moon Picnic, Weather Station, £48; scoutandcokids.com 02 Earl of East, Smoke & Musk Gift Set, £40; earlofeast.com 03 Just Maison, Grey Stocking, £22; just.maison | Dak Coffee Roasters, El Mirador, £18; just. maison | Nordal, Coffee Clip and Spoon, £8; just.maison | House Doctor, Mugs, £8 each; just. maison | Broste Copenhagen, Star, £35; just.maison 04 Cassie Chung with her three children 05 Spirited Away, Pencil Set, £13.99; scoutandcokids.com | My Neighbour Totoru, Sketch Book, £17.99 | scoutandcokids. com | Just Maison, Grey Stocking, £22; just.maison

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

_MAMA_Dec2020_ECO CHRISTMAS CASSIE CHUNG_CG.indd 139

139

23/11/2020 15:39

Independent Pre-Prep & Pre-School 2–7 Years Early Childhood Education Co-Ed Founded 1976 Member ISA

‘Foodie’ Chef for Kindergarten children Required from early 2021

Our caterers Wilson Vale have recently started recruiting a high calibre chef for our new Kindergarten site who is likely to be: • a consummate, creative ‘foodie’ who takes pride in preparing fresh, seasonal and varied lunches tailored to 2 and 3 year old children in a brand new, well equipped kitchen; • passionate about shaping the tastes of young children, evolving their preferences from ‘brown food’ to a healthy, balanced and plant-rich diet; • a bit of a gardener, who can at least tend to growing herbs with the children and preferably also some vegetables and berries to be used in the kitchen, and help with composting.

Herne Hill School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share that commitment.

To register your interest, please email reception@hernehillschool.co.uk or visit the vacancies page on our website.

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 9

www.hernehillschool.co.uk 020 7274 6336 127 & 99 Herne Hill, London SE24 9LY

23/11/2020 11:57

m a m a ECO

06 Meri Meri, Chandelier, £32; merimeri.co.uk | Nobodinoz, Bowling Set, £39.95; scandiborn. co.uk | Moon Picnic, Weather Station, £48; scoutandcokids.com | Spirited Away, Pencil Set, £13.99; scoutandcokids.com | My Neighbour Totoru, Sketch Book, £17.99 | scoutandcokids.com | Plan Toys, Timber Tumble, £26.95; scandiborn. co.uk | Meri Meri, Foliage Garland, £12; merimeri.co.uk | Just Maison, Grey Stocking, £22; just.maison 07 Broste Copenhagen, Decorations Set, £18 ; Just. maison | Plan Toys, Timber Tumble, £26.95; scandiborn.co.uk 08 Broste Copenhagen, Star, £35; just.maison | Dak Coffee Roasters, El Mirador, £18; just.maison | Anne Marie Peters, Mug, £23; just.maison | Just Maison, Gift Tags, £4; just. maison | OYOY Living Design, Jug, £33; oyoylivingdesign.co.uk | OYOY Living Design, Trivet, £16; oyoylivingdesign.co.uk

08

cover notebooks and school books in the new year. We also use washi tape to wrap presents to reduce the amount of plastic tape that we use. Even making our wreath, we head out and forage what we can from our local walks in the countryside.

07

Investing in Christmas Items Christmas is such an expensive time of year but I can never resist adding a little something to our decorations collection.

The girls have had their Ferm Living Christmas stockings for years and once Mio was born, he had his stocking to hang up too. Some of the decorations on our tree we’ve had for around nine years and almost every single one we have has been bought from an independant store. There

“Some of the

decorations on our tree we've had for around nine years” are so many advent calendars that you can also buy to reuse. I usually pop in some chocolate coins or some stationary into ours and it gets whipped out year after year.

This year has been a strange one for us all and this Christmas will be very different to the ones that we are all used to. For us as a family we are focusing on making the day as special as possible for the children. Plenty of decorations, films, fire and lots of food.

There are a few local small stores that I visit throughout the year and Christmas will be no different. Now that I have my own store I understand more than ever how important it is to buy small and support where you can.

CASSIE CHUNG

06

Cassie Chung is the founder of interiors lifestyle store Just Maison. @casschung • just.maison A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

_MAMA_Dec2020_ECO CHRISTMAS CASSIE CHUNG_CG.indd 141

141

23/11/2020 15:39

“They say you learn what an organisation is made of during a crisis: COVID demonstrated just how outstanding SJWPP is.”

Mr K for his Nursery son.

“Their rapid integration and use of video conferencing applications during lockdown, across one-on-one, small group and school-wide formats – put many large corporations, let alone o ther private schools, to shame.”

Mr G for his Nursery son.

Est. 1982 w: t: e:

www.sjwpre-prep.org.uk 0207 722 7149 info@sjwpre-prep.org.uk

RAVENSCOURT PARK

preparatory school

An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”

Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”

Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”

Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” ‘’The curriculum is excellent for all ages and abilities, and is expertly matched to meet the needs of the range of pupils in the school.’’

Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - March 2016

Open Mornings Open Mornings

9.15am Tuesday 14th November To book your place on an open morning,

9.15am Thursday 9th May 2019 please go to www.rpps.co.uk/openmornings 9.15am Thursday 18th January 2018 9.15am Tuesday 11th June 2019 or phone 020 8846 9153

9.15am Thursday 1st February 2018

To your place on an open morning, pleasemornings, go to To book register your attendance at one of our open rpps.co.uk/admissions phone 020secretary@rpps.co.uk 8846 9153 please phone 0208 846 or 9153 or mail

Ravenscourt Park Prep School 16 Ravenscourt Avenue, London W6 0SL

www.rpps.co.uk RPPS_PRINT.indd 1 RPPS.indd 1

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 10

19/11/2020 12:48 16:12 23/04/2019

23/11/2020 10:33

TRIED & TESTED

IN DEPTH REVIEWS OF THE LATEST PARENTING KIT

mama REVIEWS

The Bike Club R e v i e w e d b y J E S S S H A LT O U T

A

Stokke Tripp Trapp Re vie w e d b y M I M I N E W B E R RY

U

niversally regarded as one of the most stylish high chairs, I’ll confess that one of the first things that drew us to the Stokke Tripp Trapp was the fact that it would look nice with our HAY dining furniture.

But the minimalist Scandi design is definitely not the only reason why this classic piece of parenting kit is so popular. Setting up our Tripp Trapp took a bit of time, but once you’ve assembled it, this chair is designed to last your child for life. We got the newborn set, which enables our daughter to sit at table height with us and be ‘part’ of our mealtimes.

Once you’re out of the newborn stage, the Tripp Trapp can be used with the Baby Set. You can either sit your little one at the table or fit the Stokke Tray. An additional harness makes

the Tripp Trapp extra safe and you can adjust the height of the step and the seat as your child grows, so it really is worth the investment.  Join Stokke’s free weaning workshop with leading baby and child nutritionist Charlotte Stirling Reed on 8th December, eventbrite. com/e/stokke-tripp-trapp-tourhome-tickets-128128747533. Tripp Trapp from £178, stokke.com

s a parent I am very aware of the environmental impact we as a family make and try to make conscious decisions. I am also aware of how quickly my children either get bored of toys or grow out of them, so when I found out about The Bike Club I knew it was something I wanted to get involved with. Marketed as ‘The affordable, sustainable and fully flexible way to get your family cycling’ it does exactly what it says on the tin. You sign up and choose your bike – they vary in price from £5 to £20 per month. Then when your child outgrows it, you simply swap it for another. What’s more, you can send them your old bikes which they pay you for and renovate. You can also buy the bike you are renting, should you want to. In terms of quality, you can order a new bike or a refurbished one, but all bikes are from reputable suppliers and are strong but more importantly lightweight so your child is not put off by a heavy bike. The website is very user-friendly and the follow-up emails hold your hand through the entire process. This is a great concept – let’s hope more follow suit. Plus if you book before Christmas, you will get 50% off your first 3 months!  Subscriptions start from £5 per month and you can cancel at any time. thebikeclub.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_MAMA_Dec2020_TRIED+TESTED_CG.indd 143

143

20/11/2020 15:00

KEW GREEN preparatory school

An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”

Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”

Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”

Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” “Pupils of all ages benefit from a rich and exciting curriculum.”

Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - July 2015

To book your place on an open morning, please go to www.kgps.co.uk/openmornings or phone 020 8948 5999

Kew Green Preparatory School

Layton House, Ferry Lane, Kew Green, Richmond TW9 3AF

www.kgps.co.uk KGPS.indd 1

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 11

22/07/2020 12:52

20/11/2020 14:11

mam a

TOT GEAR

ON THE M OVE BUGABOO

Bugaboo has launched the new Bee 6, a compact city stroller. Features we love include the one hand fold, comfortable seat fabric and larger puncture-proof wheels. From £599; bugaboo.com

TOT GEAR

Inspired kit to make parenting easier

GET COMFY FLEXARS

An essential for expecting mamas, Flexars’ clever leggings are made without elastic, buttons or zips – so there’s nothing to dig into your bump. They adapt to your body and won’t sag or fall down throughout the day. Genius! £59.99; flexars.com

CITY STROLLING JOOLZ

Sleek and stylish, the new Joolz Hub+ has rear LED lights to make strolling safe now the nights are drawing in. It also folds down to a compact size and has a simple shoulder strap – making it a great choice for city living. From £569; joolz.com

ent parroved app

SILVER CROSS WAYFARER 2020 Parenting kit we’re coveting right now....

S

ilver Cross has updated their best-selling Wayfarer travel system with a luxurious new look. The latest design features a polished chrome chassis, classic quilted fabric and coordinating leatherette detailing. It’s also lighter than the previous model.

What we love most about it is that it combines timeless Silver Cross styling with all the functionality needed for city living. It’s effortless to maneuver on pavements and up kerbs, and the quick compact fold makes it easy to store and also travel with. It also has a roomy shopping basket (a huge tick for us!) and a multi-recline seat (suitable up to 22g) that can be used in either parent-facing or forward-facing mode. For summer, the hood offers UPF50 protection, with a useful pop-out sun peak. Clever new ‘elevate’ adapters (sold separately) make it possible to raise the height of the carrycot or seat by 9cm. This not only brings baby closer to you, but also gives you easier access to the shopping basket.

And if you’re expecting? The carrycot is really comfortable for newborns as it’s lined in a naturally antibacterial bamboo fabric that helps to regulate temperature.

It’s also compatible with Silver Cross’s Dream and Simplicity Plus infant carriers, which are great for getting out and about with the car or for family holidays. £695

silvercrossbaby.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

MAMA_Dec20_TOT_GEAR_CG.indd 145

145

23/11/2020 15:12

DISCOVERMORE

Open Days

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. th November 1st/7 (9.30am/care, 9.30am) With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral st Kew House is a place where you would want to be – a place November 15thof /21learning (7.00pm/ 9.30am) and discovery, laughter and friendship.

November 29th (9.30am) please go to the website for open event dates and to book your place: kewhouseschool.com/openevents T: 0208 742 2038 E: info@kewhouseschool.com W: www.kewhouseschool.com An independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

KHS_USE_2019.indd 1

@kewhouseschool

20/03/2020 16:44

KIDS & EDUCATION

SCHOOL'S OUT L E S S O N S F RO M LO C K D OW N

Queen's Gate School is one of the London dayschools to report at least some positives that have come out of the challenges that have faced all schools this year. queensgate.org.uk

Lessons from Lockdown 149 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December 20_Kids+Education_Opener_PH (Conflicted copy from Michael Roberts’s iMac on 2020-11-23).indd 147

147

23/11/2020 12:02

Discover the joy of learning

Understanding. Inspirational. Creative.

We inspire creativity through a lifelong love of learning and nurture original thinkers who have a desire to make a difference.

Next Open Event

Saturday 13 February 2021 th

STED_ABS_Sep2020.indd 1

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 12

admissions@stedmunds.org.uk

19/11/2020 16:17

20/11/2020 14:12

EDUCATION • FOCUS

LESSONS from LOCKDOWN Remote learning has challenged everyone. Two schools describe the lessons they learned from lockdown

By LIBBY NORMAN

T

he past nine months have been an extraordinary chapter for education. There has been – justifiably – much concern over the potential harm to young people of of all ages and stages denied 'normal' school life, with all that this entails. But behind the negative stories, a quiet sense that something rather revolutionary happened in 2020 is beginning to emerge.

Schools around the country managed the unthinkable – shutting their gates but finding ways to ensure both academic continuity and their spirit of community carried on. Plans were brought forward, remote learning ideals became practical necessities and staff and school leaders dug deep to prove the old adage about the 'mother of invention' in delivering pastoral, extra-curricular, sporting and creative provision. Two schools give us their impressions of the lessons learned from lockdown.

solutions for common issues,” says JAGS Deputy Head Pastoral Samantha Payne. She describes a period of remarkable agility, especially in the use of technology, and with real enthusiasm from everyone to keep the learning varied and enjoyable. “An added advantage to working online is the ease with which pupils and teachers can share their resources, and the outstanding sense of collegiality that comes as a result of this.” The way in which pupils and teachers have been able to communicate more broadly is certainly something that the school wishes to retain.

Another positive is the way in which pupils of all ages stepped up to this challenge. “It has been evident that our pupils are very resourceful and motivated and, for some, working beyond a traditional classroom but within the context of an interactive online lesson, has enabled

them to have more confidence in their own ideas,” says Samantha Payne. In any classroom, young people are influenced by their peers and the work that they see others producing, whereas working online has enabled more creativity and individual approaches. “We have also noticed that those pupils who may be quieter in lessons ordinarily have blossomed in an online environment” Wellbeing surveys and daily contact with form tutors enabled robust formal pastoral support, but clubs and regular assemblies have also played a pivotal role.

Counsellors, nurses and chaplain made themselves available to staff and parents, as well as pupils, and this has informed future plans. “Online pastoral support will certainly feed into JAGS’ wellbeing strategy as we face the coming months – and we will adapt and tweak – and embrace good ideas, as ever,” says Samantha Payne.

James Allen’s Girls’ School “PUPILS ARE VERY RESOURCEFUL”

A

t James Allen’s Girls’ School in Dulwich, remote teaching and learning swung rapidly into gear to support some 1,000 pupils aged four to 18. While there were inevitable teething problems, inventiveness saved the day. “If anything, this made the outcomes even richer as colleagues and students found creative

JAMES ALLEN’S GIRLS WERE INVENTIVE

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Lessons from Lockdown_PHindd.indd 149

149

23/11/2020 17:39

LET’s DRUM!

IS YOUR CHILD FUTURE READY?

Established 2001

THE SCHOOL OF RHYTHM ONLINE & IN OUR DRUM STUDIOS! Learn with the best teachers in London! * Face-to-face lessons in our state-of-the-art studios (SE20)!

CREATIVITY & CODING CAMPS_

or

Learning to code through creative themes that engage and excite all kinds of curious kids

* Online tuition in the comfort of your home! *Children from 5 and adults all levels are welcome 7 days/week 10am-10pm!

For children ages 5-12 Locations across London

* Trinity College & Rock School Grades 1-8!

(100% success - 90% with merit or distinction)

19th - 30th October 16th - 23rd & 29th - 31st December

For children ages 6-14 19th - 30th October 16th - 23rd & 29th - 31st December

Discover the joy of creation!

APPLY NOW AT www.schoolofrhythm.com 07930 415 185 info@schoolofrhythm.com > FIND OUT MORE

www.cyphercoders.com

SOR.indd 1 • HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 13

20/11/2020 13:06 20/11/2020 14:12

EDUCATION • FOCUS QUEEN’S GATE SCHOOL PUPILS IMPRESSED WITH THEIR TECH SKILLS

Queen’s Gate School “DIGITAL LITERACY HAS BEEN ENHANCED SIGNIFICANTLY”

I

n common with other schools, Queen’s Gate rose to the challenge of moving its entire operations online almost overnight. “The management of this change was not in accordance with textbook advice, with limited time for planning and no time at all for pilot schemes – but it had to work and it did,” says Queen’s Gate Principal Rosalynd Kamaryc.

The school selected Zoom as its platform, and with a few quick lessons on the basics

staff were ready to go. “We always encourage our pupils to take risks in their learning, to enjoy ‘having a go’ at something new and to learn from failure and what a wonderful opportunity we had as staff to lead by example as we learned how to set up meetings, send out invitations, share our screen, annotate and use break-out rooms. It was a steep learning curve, but one which staff embraced,” she adds.

Half the lessons were designed to be ‘live’ but it soon became apparent that many more were taking place. “Creativity and ingenuity were evident in our teachers’ approach to this ‘brave new world’ of remote learning as they discovered new applications and happily shared good practice with their colleagues.”

The school timetable of activities continued, with virtual concerts, sports days – also an

“Digital literacy was enhanced significantly– I think also greater understanding of the appropriate use of technology”

online charity auction, quizzes, lectures and coffee mornings for parents. Assemblies, house events and prize giving took place, alongside end-of-year assessments. “Pupils and staff rose superbly to the challenge.

Certainly, digital literacy was enhanced significantly and I think also the girls’ greater understanding of the appropriate use of technology,” says Rosalynd Kamaryc.

GCSE and A-level pupils were particularly affected, so staff created Extend Programmes of taster lessons for the next stage of education, as well as lectures and enrichment opportunities – parents seemed to enjoy joining the lectures too. From the beginning, it was clear that social contact should be offered at every opportunity, so the External Relations team set up an online weekly newsletter. Before the end of term, there was a discussion about what might continue after Lockdown and staff were enthusiastic about continuing Zoom for some meetings, lectures from visiting speakers and collaboration with other schools. “Lockdown was a unique opportunity, but we now look forward to using the best of our experience to enhance the educational opportunities we offer our pupils,” says Rosalynd Kamaryc.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Lessons from Lockdown_PHindd.indd 151

151

23/11/2020 12:29

PM.indd 1

21/02/2020 14:48

TRAVEL

COSY IN THE COTSWOLDS ARCHITECTS CABIN

Whatever travel holds for us in 2021, we can pretty much count on being able to enjoy a staycation or two. We round up some of the best UK spots.

Fantastic staycations 154 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_Travel_Opener_PH.indd 153

153

23/11/2020 11:44

NOR-FOLK STAYS, THE WATER CABIN

CORNWALL

Little Cottage PRAA SANDS

T

he Cornish family holiday home of Soho House architect Alex Michaelis, the not so ‘little’ Little Cottage is a striking family beach house overlooking the beautiful Praa Sands beach. The unique home sleeps up to 10 guests, and includes three sea-view bedrooms, an outdoor jacuzzi, hot tub and its very own trail leading to the soft sands. Ideal for those looking for a coastal stay with a modern twist.

LITTLE COTTAGE

From £281 per night & minimum 3 or 4 night stay depending on dates. sandandstoneescapes.com

S t y l i s h H I D E A W A Y S Absolutely rounds up the best UK boltholes for staycations B y C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

154

NORFOLK

Nor-Folk Stays, The Water Cabin

BROADS NATIONAL PARK

L

ocated on the bank of the River Thurne, in the heart of the Broads National Park, this 1930s cedarclad cabin is filled with stylish design furniture and has a lack of wifi

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

ABS_December20_UK GETAWAYS_PH.indd 154

23/11/2020 13:00

TRAVEL • UK GETAWAYS BRAUNTON BOLTHOLE

DEVON

Braunton Bolthole BRAUNTON

T

his stylish two bedroom home is a throwback to the 1970s. Relax on the huge orange leather daybeds and watch a retro box set, or get outside and enjoy the surrounding Braunton Burrows dunes. You’re also only a five minute drive away from the golden Saunton Sands – one of the best beaches in Devon.

ARCHITECT’S CABIN

From £75-150 per night depending on dates. Sleeps 2-4. kiphideaways.com

to encourage you to unplug and unwind.

With two bedrooms (it sleeps four), you are surrounded by stunning river and countryside views as far as the eye can see.

From £370 for four nights depending on dates. Sleeps 4. nor-folk.com/nor-folk-stays

SOMERSET

No 1 Bruton

A

BRUTON

n elegant Georgian townhouse, medieval forge and row of cottages beautifully converted into a twelve-bedroom hotel. The perfect retreat from city life, the decor is inspired by the arts and crafts movement with lots of cosy touches. Eat at partner restaurant Osip and enjoy strolling around Bruton – which is considered to be the coolest town in the West Country.

CABÜ BY THE SEA

From £130 per night depending on dates. numberonebruton.com NO 1 BRUTON

KENT

COTSWOLDS

ST MARY’S BAY

BISHOPS CLEEVE

Cabü By The Sea

C

abü by the Sea lies on a natural stretch of privately owned grassland, next to the seafront between Romney Marsh and the English Channel. A 10 acre gated community of eco-conscious cabins, it’s the perfect retreat for families – with immediate access to the beach, a chic heated pool, hot tubs and a sauna. Cabin decor has a stylish Scandi feel and there’s an open air summerhouse and a shop where you can stock up on provisons and treats.

They can even arrange activities for you including water sports and wine tours.

From £128 per night depending on dates. cabu.co.uk/holidays

Architect’s Cabin

A

n architect-led conversion, this Scandi minimalist cabin was once a farrier’s shop. Light and bright and filled with magazine-worth 50s-style furniture, it has a homely feel with comforts including a woodburner, Spotify and board games.

The kitchen table even doubles up as a ping pong table and there’s a hot tub in the garden. Three bedrooms make it perfect for a family or multi-generational holiday and there’s scenic walking in the surrounding countryside, which plenty of space for little ones to run around.

From £170 per night depending on dates. Sleeps 6. kiphideaways.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_UK GETAWAYS_PH.indd 155

155

23/11/2020 16:55

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 14

20/11/2020 14:12

TRAVEL • UK GETAWAYS

EAST SUSSEX

The Oakey Koakey Treehouse

STARGAZER POD AND CABIN

TICEHURST

THE OAKEY KOAKEY TREEHOUSE

KENT

The Coastguard Lookout DUNGENESS

A

hoy there! Pirate spotting is a must in this stunning coastal tower, situated in Dungeness.

The maritime lookout was originally built in the 1950s as a HM Coastguard radar monitoring station but has since been transformed into stylish accommodation, set out over four floors.

The views are fantastic and on a clear day you can even catch a glimpse of France. Throw open the patio doors and the beach is quite literally on your doorstep, with stretches of shingle and sea for children to explore. The lookout has a fully equipped kitchen for self-catering, or there’s local pubs within walking distance and Rye is a short drive away. A wood burning stove and underfloor heating makes this a cosy retreat in the winter months.

A 2 night stay sleeping a family of 5 from £562. hostunusual.com/categories/hostunusual/the-coastguard-lookout

THE COASTGUARD LOOKOUT

G

et a squirrel’s eye view of the world by staying at this chic treehouse hideaway. Set in its own patch of private woodland filled with deer, badgers and birdsong, it’s just an hour’s drive from London but feels like another world.

Inside, the treehouse is filled with creature comforts including underfloor heating, electricity, and a fully furnished bathroom and kitchen. The children’s forestthemed bedroom is a real crowd-pleaser and kids will love climbing the tree trunk ladder up into their bunk beds. Surrounding the treehouse, there are plenty of rambling fields to explore or a short drive away you’ll find the pretty village of Ticehurst.

Huddle around the fire-pit in the evenings for marshmallow melting and stargazing.

From £188 per night for a family of four. canopyandstars.co.uk/ theoakeykoakeytreehouse

KENT

Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve HYTHE

I

f you can’t jet off to the wilds of Africa, then an overnighter at Port Lympne offers a wonderful alternative. The reserve combines a world-class safari park experience with luxurious overnight lodges, many of which overlook the animal enclosures. The lion and tiger lodges are the sleepover hot-tickets, as there’s only glass between your living space and the big cats.

The characterful conservation park is home to over 900 animals, including zebras, apes and lions, and dino-loving kids will enjoy taking a golf buggy tour through the model dinosaur forest. For an extra special stay book an animal encounter, where you can scatter feed gorillas or meet the white rhinos.

NORTH DEVON

Stargazer Pod and Cabin HARTLAND

L

ie down on your backs, gaze up at the night sky and discover why The National Trust recently voted stargazing into their ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ list. This geodesic dome in Devon offers the perfect spot for kids to brush up on the constellations, whilst also providing a great play-zone regardless of the unpredictable British weather.

The sleeping accommodation is in the neighbouring cabin, which also has a modern kitchen and bathroom.

Elsewhere on Loveland Farm, there’s a huge indoor heated salt-water swimming pool and further afield you’ll find surf spots and hiking trails. This is the place to come to connect with nature and soak up the vistas.

From £160 per night for a family of 6. canopyandstars.co.uk/britain/england/ devon/loveland-farm/stargazer-pod

PORT LYMPNE HOTEL AND RESERVE

The hog deer creek shepherd’s hut sleeps 4 from £299 per night. aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_December20_UK GETAWAYS_PH.indd 157

157

23/11/2020 13:01

Since 1989

PROU DLY IND EP END ENT

AWA R D W I N N I N G

B AT H R O O M S H O W R O O M & T I L E G A L L E R Y

We a r e C O V I D - s e c u r e

Open by appointment only

Over 50 Bathroom Displays

l

Working Displays

Tel: 0 1 7 8 4 426900 E-mail: sales@batheandbeyond.com Monday - Friday: 9.00am - 5.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 5.00pm

AH.indd 1

l

4D Design Service

l

Quality Brands

l

Large Car Park

193 London Road I Staines-upon-Thames I TW18 4HR

w w w. b a t h e a n d b e y o n d . c o m

23/10/2020 12:52

PROPERTY

SPENCER PARK SW18

ÂŁ9,000,000

rare opportunity to acquire a substantial detached family house on Wandsworth's premiere road with views over the Common to the front and access to a private 4/5 acre private park to the rear. The property and those surrounding it were created by the then Earl Spencer in the 1880s. Situated in Wandsworth's premier road, the house has a walled garden of 89 x 72 ft and a gate to Spencer Park.

A

KNIGHT FRANK 020 8682 7768 sam.sproston@knightfrank.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

DEC 2020 PFC.indd 159

159

20/11/2020 11:54

www.johnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

TO T W KE NE AR M

EALING W5

ÂŁ950,000 Freehold

A characterful, square bay fronted family home in the heart of the award winning Pitshanger Village with stunning views over Pitshanger Park. The ground floor offers lounge, dining room, modern well-arranged fitted kitchen and cloakroom. To the first floor are three traditional sized bedrooms and family bathroom. The property also benefits from double glazed windows, an array of period style features, gas fired central heating, 65’ rear garden and has the potential to be extended subject to the usual consents. Energy Performance Certificate C.

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 1

20/11/2020 11:38

“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

EALING BORDERS

£899,950 Freehold

A unique, extended four bedroom semi-detached family home, well maintained and improved to a high standard with stunning views over local sports fields on the borders of Ealing. The ground floor offers breakfast room, kitchen and large lounge with the extended part comprising snug/office, bedroom and shower room.

To the first floor are three further excellent sized bedrooms and a family bathroom. The property also benefits from an array of period style features, double glazed windows, 60’ rear garden and off street parking for multiple cars. Energy Performance Certificate E

T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN MARTIN.indd 2

20/11/2020 11:38

www.johnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

TO T W KE NE AR M

EALING W5

£1,400 Per Calendar Month

A beautiful two bed second floor flat on this prime residential road beside Ealing Common. The property offers spacious west facing lounge, well arranged fitted kitchen, two bathrooms (one en suite) and two good sized bedrooms. There is also electric heating, double glazed windows, rear communal garden and unallocated off street parking. Offered unfurnished. Energy Performance Certificate D.

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 3

20/11/2020 11:38

“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

1995-2020 We are extremely proud to have been a part of the community for 25 years and appreciate all of your support.

Thank you to all our clients, tenants, applicants and contractors, past and present.

John, Rhian and the team at John Martin Estates

–

YOUR SALES, LETTINGS AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

–

T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN MARTIN.indd 4

20/11/2020 11:38

WE WESORT SORTTHE THEWHEAT WHEAT FROM FROMTHE THECHAFF CHAFF TO TOGIVE GIVEYOU YOUAA DEDICATED, DEDICATED,EXPERT EXPERTAGENT, AGENT, ALWAYS ALWAYSON ONYOUR YOURSIDE SIDE

AAH.indd 1

19/11/2020 11:35

AAH.indd 2

19/11/2020 11:35

house..indd 1

26/06/2018 16:17

country house town house period house modern house dream house moving house?

Estate agency has moved on. house. is different We know people are starting to consider online only estate agents, but still want the reassurance of face-to-face help from local experts.

You get both with us, because we provide that personal service without expensive high street locations that customers have to pay for.

We also go further to ensure your property and the lifestyle it enables is shown in the best possible light.

Sumptuous photography and video, and a contemporary web experience not only shows buyers how your home looks, but how it feels to live there. It’s the new, innovative way to add value when selling your house.

The premium online estate agency.

London, Surrey and Sussex 0800 917 0447 info@housepartnership.co.uk

housepartnership.co.uk

house..indd 2

26/06/2018 16:16

Working from home?

Let’s find you a home for work and play.

jll.co.uk/residential Sales | Lettings | New homes

JLL.indd 4 20200319_Agency_2020_Absolutely_Prime_April_GJ_r2.indd 4

26/03/2020 24/03/2020 14:33 16:21

PROPERTY • FEATURE

KEEP

MOV I NG John Martin of John Martin Estates in Ealing gives his take on the property market with the benefit of over 30 years in the industry

W

ell, here we are again in another lockdown. On 25th October, we marked 25 years in business - a milestone but not celebrated quite as we expected!

For agents, this lockdown is very different from last time around as we have been allowed to continue with appointments for both viewings and valuations. Are we really doing this though? Yes we are! In fact, since my article last quarter, there have been many owners who have taken the decision to market their properties, for various reasons, encouraged by the stamp duty holiday and what that will mean for buyers. Buyers have recognised this and summer saw significant activity which has continued.

We had all hoped that the change in

stamp duty would tempt first time buyers, and it has, but for those seeking a high loan to value mortgage, things have been more difficult. Lenders have shown a reluctance to lend on this basis and are seeking higher deposits, sometimes even after initially agreeing a transaction.

It therefore remains the case, as ever, that the value of a property is based on its affordability to the buyer and it is important to ensure that a property is priced correctly, especially in a market where buyers have a choice of available stock.

I can understand people questioning the wisdom of allowing viewings to continue during lockdown when there are so many restrictions placed on others but we have had a strict protocol in place since we reopened after the spring lockdown and those COVID secure precautions

“A strict protocol has been in place since we reopened” continue. As I said before, wearing mask and gloves for appointments and adopting a strict cleaning regime is not difficult, merely more time consuming, but it is so essential. In the same way, I believe a decision was made that since so much other business functions off the back of the property market, it was desirable to allow it to still operate.

The market is fluid, depending upon the news of the day, and some weeks see higher activity than others but there is certainly a desire for life to carry on, even if not "as normal" but with people trying to take some control over their futures. For this reason, the lettings market has remained active but the high supply of available properties has dictated rent levels.

So, for now, it is business as usual with an eye to the future after Lockdown 2.0 and what the New Year might bring.

We can be optimistic on the basis that there has not been a market collapse as many predicted, a vaccine is in sight and even the Brexit talks are looking hopeful. Onwards and upwards!

For advice on the property market, Pitshanger Village and Ealing and to view the properties available, please contact John and his team.

John Martin Estates 020 8998 3333 johnmartinestates.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

• JM_FP.indd 169

169

20/11/2020 16:22

SALES

5 -7 Tur n h a m G re e n Te rra ce, C h isw ic k , Lon don , W4 1R G Te l 0 2 0 8 7 4 7 8 8 0 0 · Fa x 020 8995 7275 E-m a i l i n fo @wh i t m a n a n dco.com · We bsite w w w. w h i t m a n a n dco. co m

FAIRLAWN AVENUE, W4 W4 THE HIDDEN COTTAGE,

£465,000 £2,250,000

LETTINGS

A secluded coach with a detached gatehouse, private and off-street parkingand in this soughtgarden. after residential street in theluxury Grovebathroom, Park Anunique amazingly light, wellhouse presented triple aspect flat with the grounds added benefit of a balcony private Three bedrooms, area of Chiswickroom, moments the river.kitchen, The accommodation totalling 2183 sqft comprises a detachedbalcony coach house comprising master bedroom suite with 14' reception fullyfrom integrated gas fired central heating, share in the freehold, and private garden with side access.

Ideally dressing (bedroom 4), two further bedrooms, shower stunningshopping 30’ dual aspect reception room withon feature staircase, situatedroom within close proximity of Chiswick Park bathroom, tube station and room, the extensive and restaurant facilities Chiswick Highkitchen/breakfast Road. room, study, utility, cloakroom, private landscaped gardens, detached one bedroom gatehouse with a double bedroom, shower room and 26’ kitchen/sitting room. The property further benefits from off-street parking for 2 cars. Ideally situated in this prestigious residential road offering close proximity to all amenities.

LINDENCOTTAGE, GARDENS, W4W4 LAMB W4 GROSVENOR ROAD,

£330 PER WEEK £1.600,000 GUIDE PRICE: £3,000,000

newly detached decorated lowerfronted groundfamily floorhome garden flat with private west facing Large double bedroom receptionThe room with AA unique double of 3800 sqft set on a generous plot garden. with flexible accommodation and awith hugewardrobes, amount of character. house wood floors, bathroom with the shower over, fitted kitchen, garden.

The in flat on oneplayed of Chiswick's located roads, from theknow shops, has an interesting history being former home of Midge Ure, whose studio theisgarden host to thebest recording of the Bandmoments Aid song ‘Do they restaurants on the High Road and 5 minutes from Turnham Green station.

The property availablepanelled early September, it’s Christmas’.cafés The main house comprises a generous front garden with off-street parking, entrance hall,isstunning triple aspectfurnished. reception room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, garden room, master bedroom with ensuite, four further bedrooms, two further bathrooms, cellar/utility room, sauna with shower, lovely 64’x54’10 private garden and garage. Separate self-contained 2 bed annexe with open plan kitchen/sitting room and shower room.

WHITMAN.indd 2

20/11/2020 13:23

LETTINGS POINT WHARF LANE, TW8 THE POWER HOUSE, W4

£350 PER WEEK £1,750,000

Set in this iconic Grade II listed buildingbedroom ‘The Powersecond House’, an extremely 3/4 bedroom penthouse withdevelopment. two west-facingBoasting roof terraces and secure gated Beautifully presented two double floor flat in versatile this highly sought after riverside a stunning open plan parking. apartment is situated thebalcony top of the building withensuite lift access with the accommodation further double kitchenThe reception room, a river at side and a master bedroom.

Large open plancomprising receptionmaster room,suite, fully two fitted kitchen withbedrooms, granite work luxury bathroom, spectacular vaultedviews. ceilingUnderground reception roomparking onto 16’space west facing roof terrace, fully integrated kitchen, mezzanine room, secure gated parking, tops, fitted wardrobes and 18’ riverside included. automatic lift. Ideally located for Chiswick High Road’s shops, cafes and restaurants. Transport facilities include both Stamford Brook and Turnham Green tube stations, numerous bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London.

QUEENCOTTAGE, ANNES LAMB W4 W4 AUTUMN RISE,GROVE, W4

£430 PER WEEK £1.600,000 £599,950

A large, light and beautifully two double onofthis highly desirable in the heart of Bedford Park,extensive just minutes from An immaculately presented triple presented aspect apartment locatedbedroom on the firstflat floor this landmark building road moments from Chiswick High Road’s facilities.

Turnham Green underground Top floor position ensures from the and bedrooms.

The property is flooded with lightstation. and comprises; spacious entrance hallbeautiful with fittedviews cupboards, dualreception aspect open plan kitchen/reception room, large dual aspect double bedroom with fitted wardrobes, modern bathroom, second bedroom with fitted wardrobe, secure allocated parking space, fabulous communal entrance hall, leasehold with the option to buy into the freehold. Autumn Rise is in a superb location close to Turnham Green and Chiswick High Road’s shops, cafes and restaurants. Transport links include Chiswick Park and Turnham Green Stations, local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London.

WHITMAN.indd 3

20/11/2020 13:23

ACORN.indd 1

20/11/2020 14:23

ACORN.indd 2

20/11/2020 14:23

ACORN.indd 3

20/11/2020 14:23

The new home of property

acorngroup.co.uk/lr

Goddington Lane, BR6 ÂŁ1,250,000 F/H

This fantastic executive family home is offered chain-free and boasts an impressive 3,362 sqft of living accommodation.

3

5

4

C

Contact Orpington 01689 661 400

Woodlands Road, BR1 ÂŁ3,750,000 F/H

An exceptional seven bedroom family home, set behind electric gates and boasting over 7,100 sqft of well-designed living space.

4

7

6

C

Contact Chislehurst 020 8295 4900

ACORN.indd 4

20/11/2020 14:23

ACORN.indd 5

20/11/2020 14:23

ACORN.indd 6

20/11/2020 14:23

ACORN.indd 7

20/11/2020 14:23

ACORN.indd 8

20/11/2020 14:23

gp.indd 20

19/11/2020 11:38