bloom february 2012

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The very latest news from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.

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Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.

Issue 3: February 2012

Love is in the air!

Peter OliverHairdressing

223 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3JFt: 028 9067 1058 e: [email protected] www.peterolivers.com

Open: Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri: 09.30-17.00 Thu 09.30-20.30 Sat .8.30-16.00

“Peter would like to take this opportunity to introduce Louise (Formerly of Lounge, Ballyhackamore). Louise is looking forward to welcoming her clients to her beautiful new salon. We would also like to welcome Vicky

Westwood. Vicky is a very talented and creative young stylist who we are delighted to have on our team.”

Our highly experienced and creative team specialise in bridal parties. Trust us to help make your day extra special.

Hello

Issue 3A very warm welcome, come on in...

Given that February’s claim to fame is without doubt Valentines Day, we thought it fitting to crank up the love-ometer even more and present our wedding special in this issue too! With perhaps a whole host of proposals taking place over the festive period and of course on New Years Eve, assuming they weren’t retracted the next day with a clear head, we reckon there will be a fair few couples in the midst of planning their big day be it this year or further down the line. The good news is that the planning of a wedding is much smoother than it used to be and the number of people out there who can not only help you out but can provide something totally unique and bespoke to you is fantastic. We spoke to just a handful of experts who have kindly given us their thoughts and ideas from hen parties to headwear to honeymoons. Also in this issue we have our regular look at some of East Belfast’s newest and longest serving establishments, the latest local news and events, cookery and of course we have a broad selection of local advertisers helping you make the decision to shop local much, much easier. So remember, if you use one of the businesses inside, tell them where you spotted them and

spread the word. Thanks for your support.

Bloom Magazine308 Albertbridge Road Belfast BT5 4GX

www.bloommagazine.co.uk

@bloommag Find us on

Welcome

Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or Newborn Media. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Links and contacts are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by

Bloom Magazine. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

If you would like to find out how you could grow your own business by advertising with us, contact [email protected] 07719 104862

If you have news, events, charity updates or anything else you want East Belfast to know about, contact [email protected]

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www.bloommagazine.co.uk 3

Bel ast Bloomsffloral art

At Belfast Blooms we have been supplying beautiful flowers since 1998. Our customers love our unique

blend of blooms and exotic flowers.

“Will you be getting yours on Valentines Day Feb 14th?”

Let us help!And don’t forget us for all your school formal flowers

87 Castlereagh Street, Belfast BT5 4FNTel: 028 9045 0650

www.belfastblooms.co.uk

Bloom. The local magazine for your community. Contents

2123

Local News

16

CookbookPure indulgence this month and the sweetest of creations in Tea with Bea.

Food FocusItalian restaurant Il Pirata has docked in Ballyhackamore, we take a look on board.

What’s On?Calenders poised and at the ready, here’s what’s happening this month.

Local Legend27 years hairdressing and still as passionate as day one; it’s Kenneth Michael.

6

Rising StarsDj duo Mark and Chris discuss the popularity of their Bespoke Music Solutions .

21

Health & BeautyIt’s a love thing with our resident beauty experts; The Secret Day Spa.

15

Wedding SpecialPlan your dream wedding with tailor made advice from the local experts.

16

23

28

30

34

The very latest headlines direct from the East Belfast area and beyond.

February 2012


News Local news and views. Get in touch...

6 www.bloommagazine.co.uk

How to Make Your Unwanted Christmas Presents Turn a Child’s Life Around Barnardo’s NI is appealing for unwanted gifts from the festive season to be donated to their shops in East Belfast at King’s Square Dundonald so they can be sold to raise vital funds. All money raised in Barnardo’s shops is used to fund the charity’s 40+ projects across the region that support children who are affected by today’s most urgent issues - including those living in poverty, who have suffered abuse or who are disabled. With an estimated 30% of the gifts given

at Christmas being unwanted, Barnardo’s guarantees they can find a customer for those unwanted gifts. Shoppers can buy quality collectibles, household goods, books, toys, children’s clothes, books, accessories as well as men’s and ladies’ fashions at Barnardo’s shops. www.barnardos.org.uk/northernireland

Local youth football club Newbridge AFC is available to both boys and girls. They train down at Avoniel every Wednesday night between 7pm - 8pm and anyone interested in playing is very welcome to come along to the training sessions to find out more.

Gym’ll Fix ItADAM Newton, DUP Councillor for East Belfast’s Pottinger Area has welcomed the decision of Belfast City Council’s Parks and Leisure Committee to provide an outdoor gym in Orangefield Park. Adam Newton said, ‘I believe this will become a positive feature of the park and will be useful for park users of all ages. It will encourage increased exercise levels that will help make East Belfast people fitter and healthier. I want the council to work alongside the recently formed Friends of Orangefield Park group to deliver this project. It seems appropriate that the new outdoor gym should be sited in close proximity to the bowling pavilion, the football pitches and the playground; this would encourage full use of the gym equipment.’

ICONIC BUILDING NEEDS YOUR SUPPORTTemplemore Avenue Public Baths and Swimming Pools were built as one of four public baths in the City during the late 1800’s. Now known as Templemore Swim & Fitness Centre, the 25 yard pool is still in operation. In addition the centre also has a fully equipped gym, sauna and steam room. In partnership with Belfast City Council and one of its major users, Templemore Aquatics Sports Club (www.templemore.org.uk), the Committee has ambi-tions plans which require a significant injection of funding. If successful the Centre will renovate into one of the most important buildings in terms of heritage, leisure & community in the whole of Belfast. Opened in 1893 the baths and pools have served over five generations representing thousands of people in the community includ-ing men from the shipyard who worked on the Titanic, actor James Ellis and soccer star George Best. If you would like to be kept up to date on developments, or would like more details on the facilities email [email protected] orphone 028 9045 7540.

Bloom :[email protected]


IS THIS THE YEAR TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE – AND SAVE SOMEONE ELSE’S?Why not make 2012 the year when you do something truly life changing? Action Cancer offers a wide variety of amazing overseas trek and challenge destinations every year and challenges planned for 2012 include a trek along Spain’s Camino de Santiago, the pilgrim trail featured in hit movie The Way; cycle trips through Nevada’s Death Valley, treks along the Great Wall of China and climbing challenges up Peru’s Machu Picchu, the legendary Everest base camp and the African majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro. The money raised will help Action Cancer fund its life-saving services which include free digital breast screening for women aged 40 to 49 and 70+ – groups not included in the standard NHS screening programme – as well as men’s MOT health checks, health promotion, complementary therapy and counselling services. Lyn Palmer, Events Officer for Action Cancer, said, ‘I’d like to thank the overseas challengers who chose to support Action Cancer in 2011. They all did an incredible job and we’d love more volunteers just like them, from all over Northern Ireland, to participate in up-coming challenges so that we can sustain our services. Whatever the reasons for taking part, participants always come back with a new outlook on life, a renewed confidence in themselves and a new group of friends, too. If you would like more information on taking part in an overseas challenge in aid of Action Cancer, please contact Lyn Palmer on 028 9080 3369 or email [email protected]

Titanic: the legend coming home: Belfast City Council has produced a commemorative publication to mark the centenary of Titanic’s ill fated maiden voyage and to look forward to the opening of Titanic Belfast. It will be delivered to all households in Belfast during the weeks commencing Monday 27 February and Monday 5 March 2012. See our What’s On guide for the Titanic events at the Ulster Hall throughout February.

The Life and Work of CS Lewis by Sandy SmithBelmont Tower is pleased to announce the first of an intended se-ries of short courses at the recently launched C S Lewis Centre, the beginnings of an exploration of his life and work. It will run for five sessions on Tuesdays from 30 January until 28 February 2012. Any Bloom readers that miss the initial class Sandy is happy to accom-modate later. The programme will run in the mornings from 10:30 until 11:45 and in the evenings from 19:30 until 20:45 in the Craig Suite at Belmont Tower. Both sessions on each week will cover the same material and are offered at these alternative times to facilitate participants. This programme is for adults only. It is not designed specifically for children but it is intended that programmes suitable for children will be run at some point in the future. £50 for the series of five weeks which must be block booked. Contact Leanne Mathews at Belmont Tower 02890 653338. [email protected]

News


National charity relaunchwith new name: PTA-NI The launch of charity PTA-NI (formerly NCPTA) too place recently at Long Gallery Parliament Building. It is a membership organisation and registered charity that supports all forms of home school association and schools wishing to start a PTA. David Butler, PTA-UK Chief Executive said ‘A very committed group of educational professionals were present at the PTA-NI launch event, which marked the next exciting chapter in the charity’s history. It was obvious that everyone present shared a deep-rooted passion for good education and learning and the event gave PTA-NI an opportunity to thank various stakeholders, not only for that passion but also the support they give to PTAs. In NI our membership in the last year alone, has grown by nearly 14% with a total membership just short of 20% of all schools. Our last member survey indicated that PTAs throughout the UK raised some £100 million and that the number of individual PTAs raising more than £10,000 grew to 22%.’ Phone 0845 850 5460. www.pta.org.uk

We Need Your IdeasEast Belfast Partnership’s New-townards Road 2012 project will be transforming the image of derelict shop units on the Road over the next few months. These can include installation of virtual shop fronts such as a book shop, bike shop or record store as well as iconic images associated with East Belfast. This is your chance to get creative so if you have any ideas please let them know. You can leave a comment on East

Belfast Partnership’s Facebook Page or contact Lisa on [email protected]. 028 9045 1900. You never know, your idea might be coming to a shop front near you….

The Badminton Club is up and running at Belmont Presbyterian Church after a break due to the refurbishment of the halls. The club meets on Monday evenings 7.30-10pm in the McDermott Hall. Why not give it a go? Ring Michael Fletcher 028 9065 4601 or Russell Birch at 028 9076 1132 for further details.

Bloom :[email protected]

2 Cod Suppers for £10!Use this voucher:

15 Belmont Road, BT4 2AA. Tel: 028 9065 9824.Phone orders for collection welcome

Monday - Wednesday all day. Valid until 29th February.

THE BELFAST BARGEA cargo of culture is presented in Ireland’s only floating heritage centre: the new and luxurious Belfast Barge. This unique attraction, afloat on the River Lagan, brings the past and present together in its stunning museum multi-use performance space and cafe.

The Belfast Barge, moored behind the Waterfront Hall, is the home of a museum based charity that uses physical artefacts and oral history recordings to tell the illustrious story of Belfast’s maritime past (commercial and industrial)Admission (£4 adults, £3 concessions). Titanic Boat Tour joint ticket also available. Includes a guided tour of the museum and entry to the stage cinema where visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a series of classic maritime documentaries.

For more information contact 02890 232555 or visit www.belfastbarge.com.

Yardmen Cycle & Walk ReminderJust a quick reminder that The Connswater Community Greenway, Belfast City Council and Titanic Belfast have teamed up to deliver the Titanic Yardmen Cycle and Walk on 1 April 2012 and are asking 1,000 people to sign up to either walk or cycle to the Titanic Belfast building dressed as shipyard workers from the early 1900’s in aid of Bowel Cancer UK. Upon arrival at Titanic Belfast participants will receive a goodie bag containing a free ‘Duncher’ or flat cap, their piece (sandwich) and other assorted ‘goodies’. They will then be asked to participate in the creation of an iconic image of 1900’s shipyard workers in front of the new Titanic Belfast visitor attraction. To find out more or to register for the event visit www.communitygreenway.co.uk or the Facebook page facebook.com/connswatercommunitygreenway. Numbers are limited so register early. For further enquiries please phone the Connswater Community Greenway Team on 028 9046 7925 or 028 9046 7930.

J-Bird Bakery will be hosting a wedding showcase event at the bakery on Sunday 5th February from 1pm-4pm. It’s a chance for future brides and grooms to come and see their new ideas for wedding cakes and cupcakes… and of course taste some flavours! 129 Bloomfield Avenue. www.jbirdbakery.com

NewsBloom :News Bloom :[email protected]

Getting Married?

Wedding Showcase

Sunday 5th February1pm - 4pm

You are invited to our

at 129 Bloomfield AvenueFor more information phone 02890457293

email [email protected] [email protected]

birdBAKERY

www.jbirdbakery.com www.facebook.com/jbirdbakery

on

Pottery PartyBaked in Belfast hosted a pottery painting evening for the girls of Glenburn Methodist GB. The girls travelled to Baked in Belfast in Orby Drive and painted a range of plates and bowls which were glazed and kiln fired for their next meeting. Baked in Belfast are continuing their community outreach activities all week with cupcake decorating in Age NI’s Belvoir and Braniel clubs. Any group or organisation wanting to arrange a creative evening should get in touch with Suzanne at Baked in Belfast on 028 9079 8445 or email [email protected]


Ladies NightLC Cupcakes will be hosting Ladies Night at Inverary Community Centre on Friday 16th March 6.30-8.30pm with stalls by LC Cupcakes, an art stall,

Fairydust, Aunt Sandra’s, Pashmina Butterfly (jewellery & pashminas) and much more. All proceeds go to Sarcoma UK for rare cancers that develop in the supporting or connective tissues of the body. For further information or to discuss taking a stall, contact Lynette on 07513 531432 or email [email protected]

Calling all dirty dogs!!

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News


Upcoming free business and retail events in BelfastA number of free business events for small businesses and retailers are being organised by Belfast City Council. Local retailers will benefit from a number of free retail masterclasses which will be running until March. The council will also be supporting the sector through the organising of

`Belfast Independent Retail Week’ from 5-11 March which will celebrate independent retailing in the city, through a week-long series of workshops, events and promotions. All of the BEN events start at 6pm following registration and food at 5.30pm. Belfast Independent Retail Week will also highlight the quality neighbourhood shopping and unique retail experiences available in Belfast to local people and visitors. For further information on Belfast Independent Retail Week and the free business events and masterclasses organised by the council, go to the council website www.belfastcity.gov.uk/business

Classic Decorators

- All Interior & Exterior Work

- Member of Constructionline

For a free estimate:028 9032 2189 07711 808422

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57 Holywood Road, Belfast BT4 3BA Tel: 028 9047 2115

Same day repair!• WashingMachines• Dishwashers• Microwaves• TumbleDryers• Cookers

ClosedWednesdays

Castlereagh Borough Council E Waste InitiativeResidents in Castlereagh Borough Council are encouraged to clear out their sheds and cupboards and recycle their electronic waste (e-waste). An advert on e-waste recycling has been broadcast to increase public awareness of the need to recycle waste electronics, such as washing machines, fridges, televisions and electronic gadgets or anything with a plug or battery. The film shows how e-waste that is diverted from landfill can be sent for recycling so that its materials can be recovered for use in new products. In 2010, Castlereagh Borough Council collected over 420 tonnes of e-waste at its Household Recycling Centres for recycling. Alderman Gareth Robinson, Chair of the Council’s Technical & Environmental Services Committee said, ‘The recycling of e-waste can make a significant contribution to the Coun-cil’s recycling rate and reduce the environmental impacts and costs associated with landfilling. I would strongly encourage all householders to support e-waste recycling and continue to help the Council meet its recycling and waste diversion targets.’ For more information about where you can recycle your unwanted or broken electronic items go to WRAP’s Recycle Now site to find your nearest recycling centre: www.recyclenow.com

No. 36Belmont Road

Fresh, Local, Homecooked Nosh

No. 36 is a newly established coffee shop and eaterie on the Belmont Road, offering the best of home cooking, beverages prepared by

experienced baristas and to complement a wide range of home baked goods. In addition, No.36 has a retail section presenting a selection of home made chutneys, jams, short-bread, truffles and tray bakes that you can take

home to enjoy or pass as your own.

To complement our take on the breakfast menu a selection of home-made gourmet scones and muffins are available. At lunchtime you can find fancy tarts, delicious bakes, meaty pies and other hot pots in our kitchen. Our soups are inspired from recipes from Belmont road to Bombay served

alongside gourmet sandwiches, Ciabatta and wraps.

36 Belmont Road, Belfast, BT4 2AN Tel: 028 9065 7476 [email protected]

Opening hours: Mon: 8-6, Tues: 8-6, Wed :8–6, Thurs: 8–8, Fri:8–8, Sat 9–4 Sun: 10-4

• Suki tea • Ristretto coffee • Freshly baked scones• Hot pots• Homemade traybakes • Gourmet sandwiches

No 36 Favourite!Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes

OPEN LATE THURSDAY AND FRIDAY FOR LIGHT BITES AND SWEET TREATS!

DICKSON’SDRY CLEANERS

384 Upper Newtownards Road, Ballyhackamore, Belfast BT4 3EY. Tel: 028 9065 5126

SPECIAL DRY CLEANING

OFFER!3 items for the price of 2

We also offer an ironing and alterations service.

Delivery Service & Collection Available - Quality Service Guaranteed

•Shoe Repairs•Key Cutting•Bag & Case Repairs•Locks

Welcome to The Secret Day Spa beauty page. Keeping the good people of East Belfast looking gorgeous & feeling fantastic!

Health & Beauty

The Secret Day Spa, 30 Belmont Road, Belfast. Tel: 028 9067 1914.

Health&

Beauty


February, the month of love!! Also it’s when we start booking our summerholidays. Would you like your skin to have a healthy glow for jetting off? With [Comfort Zone] daily beauty regime your skin will look and feel perfect!

3 Everyday steps to perfect skin!

Apply every day cleansing milk to dry skin morning and evening and gently massage, rinse well or remove with a damp cotton pad. Every Day cleansing milk is a revitalizing, silkening gentle cream milk with anti oxidant and hydrating active ingredients. It contains almond oil that acts like a magnet to any makeup or dirt!

Apply every Day Tonic with damp cotton pads all over the face and neck. Every Day Tonic – A revitalizing and tonifying lotion with anti oxidant and hydrating active ingredients to help skin be radiant, protected and feel silky.

Always ensure you are using the correct moisturiser to suit your skin type.

Step 1 - Cleanse!

Step 2 - Tone!

Step 3 - Moisturise!

[Comfort Zone] Skin Resonance Cream. A rich cream with a velvety and protective

texture. A product for the daily care of sensitive skin, especially for the more mature and those in need of nourishment and hydration during

cold, dry winters.

YoungBlood High Definition BrowsSince the emergence of The Only Way is Essex and Desperate Scousewives, we have fallen in love with their big dark and wonder-ful eyebrows! Contact The Secret Day Spa to get the look everyone is talking about. To keep your Youngblood High Definition eyebrows in perfect shape use Youngblood Brow Artiste kit. Each kit contains two shades of pressed powder, one wax, a dual ended applicator wand/angle brow brush and our ultra- premium tweezers. Available in four shades; Auburn, Blonde, Brunette, and Dark.

St Valentines Day 14th FebruaryThe day to celebrate love and affection between loved ones! Show your love by booking you and your partner a Destress Back, Neck & Scalp Massage and receive a free glass of bubbly and chocolates. Special price £70 for per couple. Available from 14th – 18th February.

Sshhhhh… We recently had a celebrity visit; Faye from Steps, who loved our massages and

shared it with all her twitter followers!“

”

Photography: This Modern Love‘Most couples we work with are looking for relaxed, natural wedding photography. We usually do a few portrait and family shots, but focus our attention on documenting natural moments and relationships between people. Some important things to consider when choosing a photographer; Firstly, do you like their style? For example we have a creative, alternative style that wouldn’t be everybody’s cup of tea but is perfect for others. Secondly, it’s a great idea to meet up with your potential photographer before booking. Finally, price wise, many couples planning weddings are on a tight budget but they choose to prioritise photography and save on some other things, because they know that their photographs will be with them for the rest of their lives. It’s a real privilege for us to be able to give people beautiful images which will be passed around families and down through generations.’ PhoneTim & Claire 07794 552817 www.thismodernlove.co.uk

Wedding SpecialWe speak to some wedding experts in their field to help you on your very special day...

Hen Night & Engagement Party: Lagan Boat Co.‘Make your hen party a night to remember on the River Lagan, Belfast Harbour and beyond on either the Joyce Too, for more intimate parties up to 30 or on the Mona with her enclosed cabin and two open decks for parties of up to 50. We supply this fully weatherproof and heated venue along with an icebox, ice, glasses, and lights, with a CD player or an i-pod dock. You are welcome to bring your own decorations (balloons and banners) to decorate the boat. You supply your own beverages and food to keep you refreshed. Local catering companies can be recommended or if you wish to salsa or burlesque the night away we can provide contact details for companies specialising in teaching you as you sail. Our boats are also available for other parties too. Bookings are by the hour and are subject to terms and conditions.’ Phone 028 9033 0844/07718 910 423 www.laganboatcompany.com

Sweet Treats: LC Cup ‘n Cakes‘LC Cup ‘n Cakes not only makes cakes but also makes dainty cup-cakes which are becoming increasingly popular for weddings along with one tier cake. The cupcakes can be made to suit your wedding theme, and can be done as either miniature cakes or quirky cupcakes with hand-crafted versions of your bridal flowers or your colour theme. The cupcakes can either be done with sweet icing or butter-cream. The cakes can be the classic fruit cake with a plain design to the more modern or extravagant design with any other flavours which includes carrot, lemon sponge or chocolate. I also can make little sugar paste trinket boxes which can be a lovely keepsake for your lady guests. I also do cake pops – a great treat for the kids!’ Phone 07513 531432. www.wix.com/cakeangel/lccupandcakes


Honeymoon: Co-Operative Travel, Cregagh Rd.‘Barbados: Barbados is a lovers delight. Colourful nightlife & friend-ly people, glorious beaches & fun-filled attractions. Almost year-round sunshine provides a welcome relief for winter honeymooners.Maldives: Long sandy beaches, palm trees, stunning coral reefs & mysterious lagoons. If serenity and beauty are the most important factors for your honeymoon destination, you have hit the jackpot!New York: Great nightlife, attractions and a tranquil green haven in Central Park. A lesser known honeymoon destination, who caters to the city lovers and those who like their entertainment at super speed.Italy: Few could argue with a honeymoon on the Amalfi coast with iconic towns of Sorrento, Ravello, Minori and Maiori. Twin this with a few nights in the city of Rome for a great all round honeymoon.Cyprus: The romantic island of Aphrodite greek goddess of love and beauty. A year round temperature of sunny days & mild nights.’ Phone 028 9045 1654. [email protected]

Hats etc: My Little Hat Box‘We love weddings this time of year, when the New Year is upon us and we are looking forward to the brighter days and the onset of Spring. With Valentines day hot on our heels it makes the atmosphere for a wedding at this time of year all the more romantic. At My Little Hat Box we not only embrace the traditional but also our non traditional brides and those who like to steer away from the norm. Valentines allows us to use rich reds and passionate pinks as well as all of our traditional colours. My Little Hat Box loves every season and loves adapting new styles with a vintage twist. Spring /Summer 2012 will bring beautiful necklines and an abundance of lace for our brides, all of our clients can expect flattering feminine pieces that complement their features, rich laces, soft silks, everything that says elegance and class.’Phone 07754 719242. facebook.com/MyLittleHatBox

Fairydust have these beautiful designer windproof wedding um-brellas for the discerning bride. The range includes swarovski crystal umbrellas with perspexhandles to beautiful pagodas with hanging crystals or just ordinaryplain wedding umbrellas. From £16.99 to £34.99. Phone 028 9073 1141.

Décor Etc: Charm Wedding Studio‘We provide wedding venue styling and wedding stationery. We offer a wide range of chair covers and sashes, table centres and stunning fibre optic and LED backdrops to transform any room into a fairytale setting. Our service starts with a design consultation to get a idea of how you imagine your venue to be styled and then on the day we transform your ceremony or reception rooms, completely relieving you of the stress! It’s our job to create the ‘WOW’ factor and to add those finishing touches to your wedding venue to leave a lasting impression. We also provide a bespoke wedding stationery service to set the tone for your big day!’ To make an appointment with Lynsey & Allyson visit www.charmweddingstudio.com or email [email protected]


Wedding Special...The Perfect Shave: Peter Oliver‘Well the big day has finally arrived, all that’s left to do is have a nice shower, a good shave and a decent breakfast. We can’t help with the shower or breakfast but we can give you guys the perfect shave. If you intend shaving at home here is some great advice for the perfect shave. First it is important to leave yourself adequate time to shave while relaxed, you’ll have more risk of cutting yourself when rushing. It is best to shave before you’ve had breakfast as once the metabolism has kicked in; the blood flow around your face is increased. Always start by washing your face with a cleanser and warm water after which you should use an exfoliator which will

remove any dead skin leaving the hair follicle free of skin debris. Always use hot water, as this will soften the beard, use a quality shaving soap and shaving brush to lather up, lathering in small circular movements. A shaving brush will help lift the stubble face giving a better shave. Now using a new blade in your razor shave in the direction of the growth pattern, this will help prevent razor rash and in grown hairs. Rinse your razor regularly between strokes and when you’ve finished rinse off and repeat the lathering shaving process again if you feel any rough spots. Rinse off with clean cold water to help close the pores and reduce redness. Now apply a good quality moisturiser. You are now looking sharp and ready for the big day ahead! For top quality shaving products call in to any of our branches.’ www.peterolivers.com

Make Up: Jill McMillan‘I graduated from the Oonagh Boman School of Make-Up and studied advanced bridal make-up training in the South of Ireland. Every bride wants to look radiant and luminous on her special day whilst retaining her individual look and style. But, before lifting a brush, it’s important to understand the look they want to attain and help them achieve a beautiful flawless look that will stand the test of time for the duration of the day but also stand up to flash photography for stunning pictures that will look beautiful for a lifetime. I advise my brides on current trends and classic looks that we can achieve which will complement and enhance their natural beauty. I can travel to the comfort of your home for the trial where together we can create the perfect look for your big day. But bridal make-up does not stop here! Together we can achieve the perfect look for your bridal party, which will not only complement each individual but also bring together your chosen colour scheme or theme. A final piece of advice to all brides to be is that beautiful make-up starts with good skin care and a regular skin care regime leading up to your big day will ensure stunning results and maximum staying power.’ Phone 07843 578 285. [email protected] www.makeupbyjill.co.uk


107 Bloomfield Avenue, Belfast, BT5 5ABT/F: 028 9045 2665 F: 028 9087 2491 E: [email protected]

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The Bride & GrooveBelfast DJs Bespoke Music Solutions talk to us about how they made the wedding disco a cheese free zone.

Bloom :Rising StarsRising-Stars

Mark Bell and Chris Frieze have both been lifelong record collectors, playing in the most

popular clubs and bars in the country winning DJing competitions, running successful club nights and playing alongside some of the world’s most respected DJ’s. But as their careers developed, they spotted a gap, as they explain, ‘We always felt there were people who wanted an alternative to the standard cheesy, mobile DJ road shows, not to mention wanting a DJ that can actually mix music properly on record decks.’ The eureka moment came when Mark went to a wedding show with his fiancé (now wife) and were tortured by prospective wedding disco companies offering exactly the sort of thing that makes him shiver and cringe. ‘One of the packages from a particular company had an encore of two men dressing up as Elvis Presley and doing a sing off!’ And so as an antidote to the cheese, Bespoke Music Solutions began with a superior level of quality and precision. ‘Now we are in the mp3 generation, anyone will have a go at trying to be a wedding DJ by playing back to back cheese from an iPod through a terrible sound system. We are music obsessives. Not only do we use top of the range equipment but we believe that record turntables are musical instruments and each record should be creatively mixed together

whilst reading the crowd and giving them the best party possible. Some companies put restrictions on the set time and what time the night ends. Weddings are stressful enough without those barriers so our full night package has no time restrictions at all and we also offer a cheaper half night package for couples that want a band as well as a DJ. ’ You can also select what genres you would like to hear as well as picking limitless specific songs, or make unique remixes or mash-ups of your favourite song to your specification. ‘We are the only company that can offer a fresh alternative to the now clichéd cringey wedding disco.’ So with such an incredible job seeing all these smiling loved up faces week after week at weddings nationwide, what have been the highlights so far? ‘Seeing our vision become successful. Realising that people want what we have to offer. Playing at great weddings all over Ireland and meeting some of the nicest couples you could ever meet. Being told by brides and grooms that we made their day really special for them means a lot.’ 07800 576220 or 07595 597544 Live DJ mixes: www.bespokemusicsolutions.co.uk Catch them at The Alternative Wedding Fair:Crescent Arts Centre, 19th Feb 1-5pm.


FairyDustG i f t E m p o r i u m

Stocking the Green Company Organic Cosmetics and Skincare rangeParaben free, for babies, children, teenagers, men & women. Helps combat: Psoriasis, excema & rosacea.

•Urban Pup designer doggy wear and bling accessories with Swarovski crystals•Wedding jewellery •Tiaras & accessories •Hand made soaps •Bath bombs & potions •Designer umbrellas •Laser cut hearts, flowers, pagodas etc

Spend £20 and receive a FREE GIFT!

*while stocks last

Amanda FrankReflexologist

Have magical moments...relax and unwind...

REFLEXOLOGY 20% OFF!

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Make a booking of 5 treatments and pay for only 4!

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415-417 Newtownards Road BT4 1AQ Tel: 028 9073 1141

Kip McGrath Education Centres offer professional tutoring programmes for primary through to high school students. We help build the foundations for

academic success.

English & Maths

Preparation for P1 & P2

Ages 6-18 Key Stage 3, GCSE, A-Level & Essential Skills

Preparation for CEA, Multiple Choice Transfer

Individual Programmes of Study

Kip McGrath Education Centre104 Loopland Drive, Belfast BT6 9DX

Build For a Brighter Future

Contact Jan on 9046 9662 for a FREE assessment

Adult courses coming soon.

Ring for details

Better Light the energy saver

36-42 Castlereagh Road Belfast BT5 5FP beside QE1

F: 028 9095 0827 T: 0788 560 7976

Exciting new lighting showroom opens in Belfast, Specialist supplier of Decorative lighting, Commercial Lighting and LED Lighting 10% discount on all lighting purchase and free low energy lamps fitted Please quote OS1

Call in anytime for free advice on all your lighting requirement Over thirty expertise in the lighting world

Call in anytime for free advice on all your lighting requirements. Over 30 years expertise in the lighting world.

Programs for 2-9 year oldsPlayball now at:

Windsor Lawn Tennis Club BT9

Playball Pavillion, Stormont BT5

Whiteabbey Methodist Church Hall BT37

2 to 3 yrs Two can do

3 to 4 yrs Watch me @ 3

4 to 5 yrs Dinkies

5 to 6 yrs Preps

6 to 7 yrs Players

FOR FURTHER [email protected]

07734 384616WWW.PLAYBALLNI.COM

“High quality delivery in small classes”

Global Sports & Movement Specialists for over 25 years

Tea with BeaBea’s of Bloomsbury has been offering mouth-watering teatime treats in London since 2008. Every day the layer cakes, meringues

and tiers of cupcakes in the shop window entice passers-by. Now you can enjoy Tea with Bea at home with these easy-to-follow recipes.

Recipes and images from Tea With Bea. Photography by Kate Whitaker. Published by Ryland Peters & Small.

Gingerbread 250ml/1 cup Guinness stout 250 g ¾ cup black treacle/molasses 1 ½ tsp bicarbonate of/baking soda280g /2 cups plain/all-purpose flour11/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 tablespoons ground ginger1 teaspoon ground cinna mon 1 teaspoon ground all spice¼ teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg¼ teaspoon ground cardamom¼ teaspoon ground cloves3 eggs100g/½ cup caster/superfine sugar100g /½ cup dark brown soft sugar1 tablespoon finely grated ginger 200ml/¾ cup sunflower oilChopped crystallized ginger

Gold cream cheese icing 225g/1 cup cream cheese60g/ 3 tablespoons unsalted butter175g/ 1 ½ cups icing/confectioners sugar sifted1 teaspoon vanilla extract2 tablespoons golden syrup

Muffin trays & 24 large cupcake casesPiping bag fitted with star-shaped tip

• Preheat the oven to 170 °C (340 °f) Gas 5.Put the Guinness and treacle in a tall saucepan (the next step will cause the mixture to bubble up violently and potentially overflow, so choose a very tall pan) and bring to a boil over high heat. Remove from the heat and stir in the bicarbonate of baking/soda. Let stand until completely cool. • Put the flour , baking powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, all spice, nutmeg, cardamom and cloves in a bowl and stir until well blended.• In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, both sugars and the grated fresh ginger. Gradually add the oil. Add the stout syrup and stir thoroughly.• Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredi-ents and mix until just combined. Spoon the mixture into the prepared cupcake cases, filling them four-fifths of the way up ( the mixture will not rise that much).• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes until they feel springy to the

touch. Remove the cupcakes from the muffin tray and let cool on a wire rack.• To make the golden cream cheese icing, put the cream cheese and butter in a bowl and beat until combined and glossy. Add the icing/confectioners’ sugar and beat until fluffy. Fold in the vanilla extract and golden syrup.• Fill the prepared piping bag with the ic-ing and pipe onto the cupcakes. Top with a couple of pieces of crystallized ginger, to decorate.

Red Velvet CakeServes 8-12

2 eggs225g/1 1/4 cup caster/superfine sugar1 ¼ teaspoons salt250ml/1 cup sunflower oil1/½ teaspoons vanilla extract150ml/ 2/3 cups buttermilk2 tsp bicarbonate of/baking soda2 ½ tsps apple cider/red wine vinegar225g/1 2/3 cups plain flour1 ½ tablespoons natural cocoa powder ¾ teaspoon red food colouring paste

Ulimate cream cheese frosting

250ml/1 cup cold whipping cream175g/¾ cup mascarpone 175g/¾ cup cream cheese85g/¾ cup icing/confectioners’ sugar, sifted2 teaspoons vanilla extract20-cm/8-inch round cake pan, greased and base lined with parchment paper.Preheat the oven to 170°C (340 °f) Gas 5

• Put the eggs, sugar and salt in a large mixing bowl and whisk together. While whisking, add the oil in a steady stream until fully combined and the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in the vanilla extract.• Put the buttermilk, bicarbonate of bak-ing soda and vinegar in a smaller separate bowl. The mixture should bubble then fade.• In another bowl, combine the flour and cocoa powder and sift twice. Add one third of the flour mixture to the egg mixtue and mix until well incorporated. Add half the buttermilk mixture and mix until just combined. Repeat with another third of the flour mixture, then add the rest of the buttermilk. Finally, add the last third of the flour mixture and mix until thoroughly combined.• Add the food colouring last and stir until thoroughly incorporated. Spoon mixture into the prepared cake pan.


Red Velvet Cake

Guinness Cupcakes

• Bake in the preheated oven for 28-35 minutes. A wooden skewer inserted in the middle should come out with almost no crumbs attached, and the middle of the cake, when pressed should spring back slightly instead of sink. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes if necessary.• To make the ultimate cream cheese frosting, whisk the whipping cream to stiff peaks. Set aside.• Put the mascarpone, cream cheese, icing/confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract in another bowl and beat until well combined.• Add one third of the whipped cream to the cream cheese mixture and beat until combined. Fold in rest of cream until combined. Refrigerate for about 15 min-utes. Frosting must always be refrigerated due to fragility of whipping cream. • Cut the cake horizontally into 3 layers. Spread a little of the ultimate cream frosting over one layer of the cake and top with another layer. Spread a little more frosting over the second layer and top with the final layer. Spread the remaining frosting all over the cake using a spatula

Banoffee BourbonServes 10-12

400g/14oz. digestives/graham crackers75-100g/¾ -1 stick unsalted butter, melted800g/1lb. 12oz. cream cheese225g/1 cup plus 1 tablespoon caster/superfine sugar2 eggs50g/½ cup plus 1 tablespoon cornflour/cornstarch250ml/1 cup whipping cream1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 can of store bought dulce de leche

Topping150g/1 stick plus 1 tablespoon unsalted butter250g/1 cup plus 1 tablespoon dark brown soft sugar200g/1 cup caster/superfine sugar3 bananas, cut into diagonal slicesA pinch of freshly grated nutmeg100ml/½ cup Bourbon

25-cm/10-inch cake pan, greased and baselined with parchment paperBamboo skewerPreheat the oven to 125 °C (240 °f) Gas 1.

• To make the crust, crush the digestive biscuits/graham crackers until you get fine crumbs. Add the melted butter-the amount of butter you will need is variable. Test by grabbing a bit of the mixture and squeezing into your hand to make a ball, then releasing your hand. The mixture should hold its shape but also fall apart when touched slightly. If it doesn’t hold its shape, add more butter, otherwise the biscuit cracker will dissolve into the cheesecake and you’ll have no crust. If it holds its shape too well then add more biscuits/crackers to absorb the butter, otherwise your crust will be too hard.• Press the mixture into the prepared cake pan and pat down until level. Put the cream cheese and sugar in a bowl and beat until well mixed and the sugar has dissolved.Slowly incorporate the eggs, one at a time, beating until thoroughly combined before adding the next. Scrape the side of the bowl regularly so you make sure everything is incorporated.• Sift the cornflour/cornstarch into the mixture and stir until thoroughly combined. Add the cream and the vanilla

extract and mix until combined. Pour the mixture into the cake pan over the crust. Add dollops of dulce de leche and swirl through the mixture with a fork.• Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour 20 minutes until the middle is slightly jiggly and the top doesn’t look shiny • Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 1 hour. Refrigerate overnight. Unmould the cheesecake by turning it upside down on a plate or board, then up- righting again.• To make the topping, put the butter and both sugars in a non-stick frying pan over medium to high heat. Cook until you get a nice, gooey caramel. Add slices of banana and the nutmeg and cook until hot. When the mixture is bubbling, light a bamboo skewer. Immediately add the Bourbon to the bananas and light with the bamboo skewer. It should have a quick blue flame and then dissipate. • Let the topping cool before spreading over the cheesecake.

Tea with Bea published by

Ryland Peters & Small is

available now priced £16.99.


Banoffee Bourbon Cheesecake

Cheesecake

Warwick’s Quality Family ButchersEst. 1987

24 Holywood Road Belfast BT4 1NT Tel: 02890 657086

Awards:Butchers Choice Elite Butchers Award 20091st Prize National Sausage competition 20091st Prize National Sausage competition 20103rd Prize National Sausage competition 2011

Specialists in locally sourced dry aged beef, lamb, dry cure bacon, fresh pork and poultry and seasonal game.

MagazinebloomThe very latest news from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.

What’s going in your ownneighbourhood from mums and tots groups to entertainment.


Issue 1: December 2011

A warm andfestive welcome

to East Belfast’s brand new

community magazine!

Grow Your Business With Bloom Magazine...

Magazinebloom

Reach the people of East Belfast directly every month. To find our how and for a copy of our media pack, contact Angela: [email protected]: 07719 104862www.bloommagazine.co.uk

Magazinebloom




Issue 2: January 2012

East Belfast is in the depths of winter, so come on in and warm

yourself...

Magazinebloom




Issue 3: February 2012

Love is in the air!

LydiasPIZZERIA & KEBAB HOUSE

Delivery Service

Tel: 028 9047 2544Or ring to have your order ready for collection.

Deliveries £1.20 for 3 mile radius.

Lydia’s Pizzeria & Kebab House is located on Belmont Road and delivers excellent food straight to your door. Specialising in authentic stone baked pizzas, you can place your order by phone or online and enjoy a delicious meal from Lydia’s in the comfort of your own home. What is great about our menu is that there are dishes that suit all tastes and occasions and on

the top of that there are some great Special Offers too.

Lydia’s Pizzeria & Kebab House is open every day from 17:00 to 24:00, on Fridays & Saturdays from 17:00 to 02:00

You can find our menu on facebook just-eat.co.uk niftynosh.com or on the menu section of yellow pages.

Opening HoursSun - Thurs 5pm - Midnight Fri - Sat 5pm - 2am

Lydia’s Pizzeria & Kebab House 38 Belmont Road, Belfast.Tel: 028 9047 2544

’

Bloom :Food Focus


Simple, Rustic & Tasty.

The restaurant Il Pirata is a locally and independently owned venture with Jonny Davison as head chef who and a front of house team lead by Sarah Fitchett. The restaurant is named after Marco

Pantani, an Italian cyclist, due to the owners love of cycling, who was nicknamed ‘Il Pirata’ due to his bandana and large gold ear rings. We spoke to the team behind the venture who explain the restaurant was just waiting to happen, ‘We wanted to do something completely different that didn’t exist anywhere in our city. Ballyhackamore seemed like the perfect location. One of the team had eaten in a ‘spit and sawdust’ place in a backstreet in Rome patronised solely by Italians. It served traditional roman cuisine and he wanted to reproduce that almost rustic, simple Italian cooking in Belfast.’ That blueprint from Rome has certainly docked in East Belfast. The relaxed, unpretentious environment very much promotes the social aspect of dining...sharing, mixing and matching, getting stuck in with family or friends. ‘We wanted a relaxed casual yet professional style of service and to create a destination restaurant. We always wanted the place to have an air of coolness about it and I think we achieved that. Oscar & Oscar did the interior design. They are a fantastic design group that we have worked very closely with before.’ It’s that interior that has added to the rustic, relaxed feel. As the restaurant was being created, pictures of the furniture, the tireless work on the floor, the sublime central bench were being posted on Twitter from Oscar & Oscar which was tremendously exciting to see something so different coming together. So what can people expect when they arrive? ‘Superb, traditional Italian food and slick service, atmospheric lighting. People should not expect to eat in a traditional starter/main/dessert style but in more of a Mediterranean style where you can order multiple times as you fancy, taking your time. Don’t expect the music to be turned down, the lights to be turned up or for us to chicken out and stick steak and chips onto the menu!’ So originating from the backstreets of Rome to a central thoroughfare of East Belfast, Il Pirata has quickly become one of the city’s most talked about restaurants with a menu and evening out with a difference and some dishes becoming firm favourites already. ‘Our beef brisket ragu sums us up in a bowl. This authentic dish is one of our trademarks. Our pork slider made from award winning sausage meat packs a hefty and delightful chilli and fennel punch too. There are plenty of delicious small plates packed with flavour perfect for getting round and sharing, whilst the lemon posset and tiramisu are heavenly.’

Three words that clearly define what Ballyhackamore’s newest restaurant has to offer. Il Pirata has taken the area by storm.

FoodFocus

279-281 Upper Newtownards Road. Walk in only, no reservations. twitter.com/ilpiratabelfast

Photography by Little Pink Kitchen

76 Belmont Rd, Belfast, BT4 2AA. Tel: 028 9065 2428.

Belfast stockist of Seasaltwww.silhouettefashionbelfast.co.uk

Search ‘Silhouette Belfast’ on

Aloe2Vitality.co.ukTel: 07722 449775

Forever Nutri-Lean ProgrammeFor a healthy you

The Forever Nutri-Lean Programme is a two step process, combining a 9 day nutritional cleansing plan followed by a long term weight loss plan. This is designed to take the guess work out

of a lifetime of healthy eating and diet control. Weight management is a lifetime pursuit and requires a change to your

lifestyle, but the results will be well worth the effort. Let the Forever Nutri-Lean Pro-gramme help you develop good habits

now for continued weight loss and overall improved health.

www.Aloe2Vitality.co.uk/nutrilean www.Aloe2Vitality.co.uk/petia

RECRUITING NOW!

Forever Living Products offers a fantasticopportunity to change your career.

We provide a professional and easy way to build your own business on a part-time basis working alongside existing commitments or you may decide to build a full-time role as your income increases. As an Independent

Distributor, income is earned through the re-tailing of a market leading range of aloe vera

health and nutrition products, and through building a team of like minded people.

This opportunity is open to everyone and no previous experience or qualifications are

necessary as award winning training and support are provided.

FULL AND PART TIME OPPORTUNITIES!

WIN! East Belfast fashion retailer Silhouette is offering Bloom readers the chance

to win a £50 gift voucher to spend on any of their new Spring Summer

styles!

To enter, answer to the following question:

Where do Seasalt clothes and accessories come from?

Send your answer along with your name, address and telephone number to:

Silhouette 75 Belmont Road, Belfast, BT4 2AA

Voucher valid for 3 months. Competition closes 16th March, draw will take place on the 19th March.

WhatsOn Plan your time with our handy guide...

MONDAYSSydenham Parent & Toddler GroupInvarery Community CentreBT4 1RNTel: 028 9047 1456Mon 10-11.30£1 per familyTea/coffee/juice/toast.

St Finnians10-11.30Cregagh ParkBT6 9LF028 9079 2793.

Wandsworth Mums & Chums Group10-11.45amWandsworth Community Centre,26a Belmont Church RoadBT4 3FFCost £1 per family.

Calvary Baptist Mums and Tod-dlers.10.30-12.00am100 Dee StreetBT4028 9073 2331£1 per Family.

TUESDAYS Mersey Street Presbyterian Parents & Toddlers10-11.45am term timeMersey Street Presbyterian ChurchBT1 1EXTel: 028 90 [email protected]£1 donation

Strandtown Baptist Tots10.15- 11.45am (term time)Strandtown Baptist Church, 1 Clonallon CourtBelmont RoadBT4 2ABTel: 028 9080 8380£1 per adult

WEDNESDAYSBusy Bees 10 -11:30amKnock Methodist Church, Knock Road,BT5 6JATel: 07867 [email protected]

smallTALK @ orangefield10-11.45amOrangefield Church and Com-munity, 464 Castlereagh RoadBT5 6BHTel: [email protected]

Willowfield Mother and Toddler Group10-12pmWoodstock RoadBT6 8PRTel: 028 9045 [email protected]

THURSDAYSCregagh Mums & Tots10-12pmCregagh Community CentreMount Merrion AvenueBT6 OFLTel: 028 9040 1444

Knock Parent & Toddler Group10-11.45am

Knock Presbyterian Church53 Kings RoadBT5 6JHTel: Pamela 07921 067927 or Gil-lian 07803 [email protected]

FRIDAYS Wandsworth Mums & Chums Group10-1.30pmWandsworth Community Centre, 26a Belmont Church RoadBT4 3FFTel: 07903 [email protected]£1 per family

Tots ‘R’ Us10.30amHouse of Worship127a Orby DriveBT5 6BBTel: 07791 776307/07980 984506info@houseofworshipireland.comwww.houseofworshipireland.com

TUESDAYBelmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.uk Childrens dance classes4-7pm Zumba Classes6-7.15pm Pregnancy Yoga Classes7.30-8.30pm

TODDLER GROUPS

EVENTS


Happy Valentines Day

GET YOUR VALENTINES DAY BALLOONS FROM

BELMONT ROAD’S NEW PARTY SHOP ON THE 1ST FLOOR OF JUST for YOU WHERE

ALL OCCASIONS ARE CATERED FOR•BALLOONS (latex & foil) •BANNERS

•COSTUMES •PARTY TABLE ACCESSORIES•PARTY WARE

A sample of our staff expertise - they are trained in balloon design, so why not order balloon table presentations for your valentines day party in your choice of balloon colours.

- AND ON OUR GROUND FLOOR -VALENTINES DAY CARDS AND GIFTS, QUALITY COSTUME JEWELLERY, BRANDED HANDBAGS, SCENTED CANDLES, SCARVES, CATH KIDSTON

MUGS, GABRIELLA MILLER POTTERY, WILLOWTREE ANGELS & MUCH MORE!

Just for You 13 BELMONT ROAD, BELFAST, BT4. TEL: 028 9065 7228

Mon-Sat 9.30-5.30

ers will address issues associated with the regeneration of Titanic Quarter.

Film ScreeningThursday 16 February, doors 6.30pm, screening 7pm. Free.Light refreshments will be served before the screening and film his-torian, Mike Catto will lead a post screening discussion. Made during the Second World War, this 1943 Nazi propaganda film used the sinking of Titanic as a setting for an attempt to discredit British and American capitalist dealings and glorify the bravery and selflessness of Germen men.

Ulster Orchestra - Titanic JourneyFriday 17 February, 7.45pmTickets: £8 to £22The Ulster Orchestra’s associate composer Ian Wilson presents a new work inspired by Titanic and her sister ship Olympic.

WEDNESDAYBelmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.ukBaby massage10am-1pm

Yoga with Eleanor5.45-7.45pm39th Old Boys7-9pm

THURSDAYBelmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.uk Art classes10am-1pmBaby Sensory ClssesDevelopment classes to support baby’s sensory development. 7-13 mths Thurs 10-11am0-7 mths Thurs 11.30-12.30 Yoga with Sharon6.8pm

FRIDAYBelmont Towerwww.belmont-tower.co.uk Belcanto School of Ringing10am-1pm

TITANICa: The Exhibition at the Transport MuseumExplore as you discover why Titanic and her sister ships were built in Belfast. Discover how local enter-prise and skills were combined to produce vessels of exceptional qual-ity and design. Find out about life on board through fascinating objects and personal stories that explore the tragic loss of Titanic in 1912.

Bloom :Whats [email protected]

T: 028 9042 8428E: [email protected] W: www.nmni.com

TITANICa: The People’s Story at the Folk MuseumExplore the ultimate living history experience of Titanic by walking and talking with the people who knew her best. Dress in period costumes and take away your own copy of the Titanic launch ticket. Meet local shopkeepers, businessmen and townspeople, and watch silent mov-ies in the Picture House. T: 028 9042 8428E: [email protected] W: www.nmni.com

Making Connections - Ulster Folk and Transport Museum12-4pm, running until Wednesday 14 March 2012Making Connections is a pro-gramme of monthly open afternoons for the over-50s taking place on the second Wednesday of every month. Free entry to the Museum after 12pm. For booking and enquiries please contact the Live and Learn Team on 028 9039 5080/5081.E: [email protected] W: www.nmni.com

Ulster Hall - Titanic

Photographic ExhibitionRunning throughout FebruaryThe exhibition charts the redevelop-ment of Titanic Quarter, focusing on the new Titanic Belfast building and the workers involved with the project.Lunchtime LectureWednesday 15 February, Group Space 1pm to 2pmRunning in association with PLACE, a panel of specialist speak-

We do advise ringing ahead before any visits to check details. If you have an event you would like the people of East Belfast to know about, send all the details to: [email protected] Many thanks.

EXHIBITIONS


WhatsOn

The Rite FitExperts in ladies & gents garment alterations

A family business for 30 yearsAll types of garment

alterations, bridesmaid & formal wear. Fitting

service available.

Making & alterations of curtains, roman blinds & soft furnishings all at

competitive prices.Friendly, helpful staff

Tel: 028 9045 2666341 Beersbridge Road,

Belfast BT5 5DSOpen: Monday - Friday

9:30am - 5pm

64 Woodcot AvenueBelfastTel: 07513 531432

Cake Fairy

LC Cup’n Cakes create cakes cup cakes, tray bakes, cake pops and other sweet treats.

Lynette Conlon

Email: [email protected] www.wix.com/cakeangel/lccupandcakes

LC Cup’n CakesQuirky creations for every occasion!

regionalwinner...McCallum’sButchersNorthern Ireland Pork

Supported by

990-3-53 Poster-McCallums.qxd:Layout 1 1/12/11 15:06 Page 3

351 Woodstock Road, Belfast. Tel: 028 9022 6211

Community Weight Loss ChallengeAre you serious about losing weight?Join the 12 week challenge TODAY!

• PrivateWeeklyWeigh&Measure• WeightLossCoaching• Fun&Friendship• NutritionEducation• Support&Community• WeeklyPrizes&Rewards

Only £39 for the full 12 weeksChallenge is every Wednesday at 10.30am - 11.30am

and 7pm - 8pm

Call Gulnaz now to book your place:Tel: 07966 769551

104 Loopland Drive, Belfast

* Prizes based on 30 participants - class limited to 40.

BIGGEST LOSER WINS £300!*2nd Place £200*; 3rd Place £100*

Bloom :Local Legend


LocalLegend

Hairdressing is extremely competitive in East Belfast so to be still in business after 27 years is an incredible

achievement. But Kenneth wasn’t always in the trade, as he explains, ‘I set up originally at the end of 1985 as a sole trader. I was 31 when I started, I had a local government background in education before that for 14 years. At that time I also had qualifications in dance, ballroom and latin. Through that I had friends in hairdressing and my friend who was head of NI Hairdressers Association used to get me involved in the shows they did. When I decided to call it a day in education, I thought if I was going to get into hairdressing, I had to be as good as the best out there. So I did a course at Rupert Stanley (now Belfast Met).’ After that Kenneth worked for Hair Traffic and then on to manage Grand Reflections on Grand Parade to cover maternity leave. ‘That salon is still there. I stayed for over a year and they also owned the salon in the location that we’re in now which at the time wasn’t doing particularly well. They asked me to come and run it which I declined. I was 35 then and thought it was time for me to do some-thing on my own so I bought that salon over from them and have been here ever since. My partner Steven came on board a few years ago. He was also in the trade and is very passionate about the competitions. He’s a former world champion.’ Kenneth and partner Steven are president and vice president respectively of the NI Hairdressers Association and they play a vital role within the entire industry. They organise the world cup team which travels globally every year amongst other competitions including The Hairdress-ers Ball, the NI and the all Ireland championships. They

have won a lot of competitions themselves and proudly display trophies in the salon and from all over the world. Now as the business has developed they offer a beauty salon and specialise in weddings. They’re also a Premier Goldwell salon, the only one in Belfast and a main GHD stockist too. So how has the Woodstock changed in all these years? ‘It’s always been a good value for money shopping road. The lower part used to have a lot of old and bricked up build-ings which have been rebuilt and its busier now with that regeneration and there is new housing.’ Yet throughout all the change, loyalty and hard work have been the key to the success here. ‘You have to be there for your clients when they want you to be there meaning you have to sacrifice a lot in your own life. I have very few holidays or leave and what time I have away is working on the competitions. But I have clients coming today 27 years on who were here from day one plus I’m getting the next generations from their families too which is fantastic. I have a very loyal and faithful client base.’ And how does that loyalty remain so intact? ‘I’ve always said that your hairdressing ability is very important but so is communicating. You build up a rapport with clients. Those considered highly by their clients have that dual skill. You have to be switched on from first thing and also until 9pm three nights a week too. I would sincerely like to thank all the faithful and loyal clients, we really appreciate their sup-port and look forward to welcoming some new ones too.’

Steadfast StylingKenneth Michael Hairdressing has stood proudly on the

Woodstock Road for 27 years. We find out why.

221-223 Woodstock Rd 028 9045 5740www.kennethmichael.co.uk

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9060 5333

South BelfasT205 Lisburn

Road. Sun - Wed: 4pm-Midnight,

Thurs, Fri: 12 Noon-Midnight Sat: 4pm - 1am

9066 2999

EasT BelfasT377 Beersbridge

Road. Sun -Fri: 4pm-Midnight,

Sat: 4pm - 1am

9022 6633

NewtownabbeY

131 Doagh Road.


9085 4949

WE’VE MADE THIS

EASY FOR YOUHere’s all of our best

bits in handy bundles.

HAVEthE TASTe,

HALFTHE CALORIES!

NEW!

£10.50

Garlic Pizza Bread + Wedges9”DEAL

* Up to 4 Toppings or Speciality Pizza.

£12.50



12”DEAL

£16.50

16”DEAL

£6.50

SKINNY

PIZZA!

12” DOUBLE DEAL*


£15

16” DOUBLE DEAL*


£22

Cafe Smart56 Belmont RoadBelfast BT4 2AN

Cafe • Bakery • Gallery • Sit-in • Take-Away • Private Hire

cafesmart.co.ukFind us on Facebook and twitter

Mon-Sat 0830 -1700Thurs 0830 - 2200

Thursday nights: B.Y.O wine and live

music with an evening menu.

bloom february 2012

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