FEBRUARY 2015

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• SBID International Design Excellence Awards 2014 - Finalist - Notification Pending• KBB Industry Awards 2014 - Finalist Designer of the Year• International Design and Architecture Awards 2014 Finalist - Notification Pending• SBID International Design Excellence Awards 2013 - Finalist• Designer Magazine Awards London - Kitchen Design of the Year 2013 - Finalist• Designer Magazine Awards London - Kitchen Design of the Year 2012 - Finalist• Society of British Interior Design - International Design Awards 2012 - Finalist• KBB Industry Awards 2011 (London): Finalist - Designer of the Year • KRI Awards 2010: Winner: Designer of the Year• The Design Awards 2010 (London): Winner: Designer of the Year• IKT Awards 2010: Finalist: Designer of the Year• KRI Awards 2010: Finalist: Best Contract Design• The Design Awards 2010 (London): Highly Commended: Designer of the Year• KBB Industry Awards 2009 (London): Winner: Designer of the Year• The Design Awards 2009 (London): Finalist: Designer of the Year• The Design Awards 2009(London): Highly Commended: Designer of the YearStudio consultation by appointment

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Launch Night at the Petri School of Irish Dance and Eire Designs. The event was attended by leading figures in the Irish Dance world from Northern Ireland, America and further afield, and acted as an official event to launch the school’s new

centrally-located facilities on the Boucher Road.

Petri School of Irish Dance

Barbara & Sean Bradley

Sinead Green

Lisa Petri

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Carys Magill Amy McGuckin Rebecca Maguire

Hollie Keegan & Sara McCoo

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West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK

With the launch of its nineteenth season the West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK launch at the BFW HQ in

Belfast brought a splash of colour to a cold and wet January, and with it, the announcement of the popular

FASHIONWEEK programme. Returning from 19-22 March

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ULsocial

Popular Belfast nightclub, El Divino, hosted an exclusive event for Charles Hurst Vauxhall to

celebrate the official launch of the all new Corsa in Northern Ireland this week. Party goers’ and motoring enthusiasts managed to stop traffic as

guests flocked to the Lagan-side venue for a preview of the fourth generation super mini whilst enjoying

bespoke cocktails and canapés and listening to upbeat tunes from resident DJ Mike Callan

El Divino host Charles Hurst

Jordan Asil & Anna Henry

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From the tour bus to the catwalk, get set for spring, as being a fashion groupie has never been cooler. The new season sees a resurgence full of retro influences, with a focus on quintessential seventies throwbacks.

Forget being in the band, the look of the moment is ‘with the band’. Groupie-glam covers all angles, from rebellious punk-chic to flower power to glitter glamour.

The archetypal hippy gets a refresh, while maintaining her carefree vibe in a mix of crochet, fringing and denim. Spend the season floating in a flouncing maxi dress and vintage kimono à la Stevie Nicks, or

With the Band

A leading stylist in Northern Ireland, Eve has a wealth of experience in the

industry. Each month she offers a fashion focus into the most coveted designers,

trends and styles of the season.

Groupie Glamour

Saint Laurent

SS’15

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reach dizzying heights in the most pioneering of platforms.

This season the catwalks and runways took inspiration from 70’s stars, with this decade producing some of music’s most

Stevie Nicks

Tom Ford SS’15

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iconic female looks. Tommy Hilfiger cashed in on true star quality with an abundance of rock n’ roll attitude, embracing the golden years in authentic shaggy coloured faux furs, patchwork denim and knee-high boots. Of the collection Hilfiger explained his inspiration, “my love of music - The Beatles, The Stones, Hendrix, The Who… I thought I would celebrate my passion, my beginnings, my roots”.

Tom Ford presented his offering to a version of Robert Palmer’s renowned eighties track ‘Addicted to Love’. Influenced by Debbie Harry, models marched in high-waisted flares, micro-minis and glittering slip dresses. Make up was reminiscent of a heavy night on the dance floor, with mascara-laden eyes and shaggy bed hair. The groupie girl tribute continued throughout the shows, as we saw several designers channel the

Debbie Harry

Emilio Pucci SS’15

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CONTACT:W: evebrannonfashionstyling.com E: info@evebrannonfashionstyling.comT: + 44 (0) 7817 597067

idealism of heady Glastonbury days. Saint Laurent’s spring girl enjoyed an eclectic mix of printed separates and thrift shop finds, accessorised with velvet details and sheer tights.

Undeniably the spring/summer season has successfully underpinned the charming and playful mindset of the definitive groupie. Throw away the rulebook, embrace the Dazed and Confused look and be sure to rock this spring!

Tommy Hilfiger SS’15

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The great and the good turned out for the opening of the hilarious social satire God of Carnage at the MAC running from 3-21 February. The Prime Cut and MAC co-production directed by Emma Jordan centres on the story of two sets of parents who meet up to deal with the unruly behaviour of their children in a very civilised manner. What happens next is open to opinion - a calm and rational debate between grown-ups about the need to teach kids how to behave properly? Or a hysterical night of name-calling, tantrums and tears before bedtime.Tickets are on sale now from themaclive.com starting from just £12.

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Northern Ireland’s Pharmaceutical champions have been recognised at this year’s Ulster Chemist’s

Association’s President’s Ball and Pharmacy in Focus Awards which returned on Saturday

31st January for the ninth year running.

Pharmacy Focus Awards

Caroline Davey and Greg Hall

Michele and Peter Surgenor

Grace and Brendan Donnolly

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Hannah Ennis and Ruth Dickson

Claire McCollum and Alistair Clarke

Orla Lagan and Rick McCaig

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West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK returns for a colourful season.

With the launch of its nineteenth season, West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK is now firmly established as a key date in every stylista’s schedule. This season’s launch at the BFW HQ in Belfast brought a splash of colour to a cold and wet January, and with it, the announcement of the popular FASHIONWEEK programme. Returning from 19-22 March, with nightly catwalk shows plus the return of Sushi Saturday and Style Sunday, Ireland’s leading fashion event continues to lead in the style stakes.

FASHIONWEEK Director Cathy Martin said: “Following on from a fantastic and remarkable milestone with our ten year celebrations last season, I am excited about showcasing the very best of our local designers and independent boutiques as well as international high street names once again this March.”

“And, as well as the catwalk shows, our new HQ in Bruce Street will also host a pop-up sushi and cocktail bar, courtesy of Belfast’s favourite Japanese and Asian venue Zen. This stylish, pre-show eaterie is the perfect complement to our “shop the show” boutique alley, where show-goers can browse the latest catwalk collections as well

as purchase fashionable gifts. “In terms of trends for this

season, we welcome back some of our all-time favourite trends to the catwalk for Spring. Fashion fans should prepare for an array of zingy colour with a palette of citrus bursts – especially bright yellows and lime greens - jumping to the fore. An eclectic mix of vintage prints and fabrics inspired by fashions of the 1970s will also abound, with full flared trouser silhouettes and belted in waists everywhere. For evening, feminine ballerina shapes and fabrics give a delicate alternative to the bolder stripes, prints and colours for day wear.

No stranger to fashion trends, high-street retailer Next’s PR Manager, Chantelle Craig has said: “Here at Next we are truly delighted to be back on board for what is sure to be another successful season at Belfast FASHIONWEEK. We are excited to showcase our latest collections, which include spring floral prints, zesty lemons and luscious limes, appealing to our more daring and vibrant customer. However, we have not forgotten about the fashion minimalists with a stunning pale palette collection consisting of nudes, greys and whites. This season’s trends gave us

the perfect opportunity to play around with silhouettes and shape, so you can expect to see feminine fringing and a super stylish addition of cut-outs, mesh, lace and sheer fabrics.”

In terms of the main schedule, Friday 20 March will see the latest collections from local designers and independent boutiques on the runway. Confirmed to return are Blush and Jourdan from the Lisburn Road, Diamond Dolls and Spoilt Belle

Springing into Summer

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Boutique as well as designers Grainne Maher, Nor Lisa and Chloe Dougan, among others. FASHIONWEEK new-comers this season include Mimi’s Roadtrip boutique from Moy in Tyrone and The Style Retreat, Lisburn. Dundalk-based designer Gillian Leavy, as well as illustrator-turned-designer Sara O’Neill, who will showcase her Èadach collection, are also coming on board for the first time.

Preparing for her first season,

illustrator Sara said: “I'm very excited to be involved in BFW SS15 because, although I've styled various BFW shows and shoots over the years, this season I'm taking part as a designer, showcasing my Èadach collection. I always love seeing my work on the catwalk as a stylist, but seeing my own designs up there is really wonderful.”

Following from the ever successful designer night, style proceedings continue with the High Street Heaven shows on Saturday 21 March, bringing the latest looks from the nation’s biggest and busiest stores including Next, Marks and Spencer, Jigsaw, The Outlet, Banbridge, Excel Clothing, DV8 Fashion, Oasis as well as Dorothy Perkins, New Look, Designers at Debenhams and Miss Selfridge from CastleCourt.

No stranger to the FASHIONWEEK format, CastleCourt Marketing Director Camila McCourt said: “As a centre, we are thrilled to continue our involvement in Belfast FASHIONWEEK this season. At CastleCourt, we pride ourselves on having a wide range of high-street stores that reach a varied audience from young, tall, petite and curvy, to those on a budget and those who want to flash their cash. FASHIONWEEK is the perfect platform for us to showcase what is on offer from our retailers – and we’re even more delighted to be announced as the official fashion partner of the iconic Belfast FASHIONWEEK/Sunday Life COVERGIRL

competition this year too.”Having made a special return as

part of the ten year celebrations, budding models will be excited to hear of the continuation of the COVERGIRL competition. The team is seeking to find ten budding models – and one ultimate COVERGIRL – who will walk away with a host of amazing prizes including a stint on the catwalk at FASHIONWEEK in March and £1000 worth of fashion from CastleCourt plus return flights from airline partner Aer Lingus. Scouting days will take place in CastleCourt on 31 January and 07 February from 1-3pm. A team of judges will whittle down the entrants to ten finalists who’ll take part in a shoot for CastleCourt, then three lucky finalists from the ten will be shortlisted and whisked away for an all-expenses-paid destination shoot abroad courtesy of Aer Lingus and West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK.

For those unable to make the evening catwalk shows, the return of Sushi Saturday at the uber-chic Shiro is a welcome treat. The “Director’s Cut” fashion event showcases 36 of the best looks from across all shows at Belfast FASHIONWEEK, whilst guests enjoy a welcome West Coast Cooler cocktail and sushi platter - all for the bargain price of £25 per person.

Last, but definitely not least, the schedule will close in sumptuous style with the flagship Style Sunday luncheon

Click here to continue this article

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Ulster Life Fashion takes a look at what’s on offer at one of Belfast’s best Boutiques. Velvet Boutique based on the Lisburn Road (Opposite

Bank of Ireland) Click any link below to shop at Velvet Boutique.

Black Velvet

DOROTHEE SCHUMACHER COUTURE DRESS

Of course, you should save this tip sea not only for glamorous evenings. For peak is now less

playful, but with downgrade attitude. With boots and parka black lace cast emancipated in rotation

with cardigans casual. Late-night black as randomly placed Tapes and nudefarbene See-through

effects, midi dress making (now a duo with Ankle Strap Pumps) but to a large (evening) event.

DOROTHEE SCHUMACHER LIBERAL CHARM DRESS

Embroidery, Tubes, subtle sexiness: this dress is - despite very charming details -

the silent relief from too much fanfare. In silhouette sleek and sophisticated, thanks

very delicate silk crepe timelessly feminine, the piece follows only a fashion rule: less is sometimes more important.Authentic to: oversize jackets and long cardigans.

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ULfashionDOROTHEE SCHUMACHER CRYSTAL ROCK BLOUSE This season is the feminine blouse a trace of sensual and dipped as in the glamorous atmosphere of the Roaring Twenties: hand embroidered with delicate crystals and dark transparent Seidengeorgettes it is classic office affairs quite sublime and sometimes “ready to party”.

DOROTHEE SCHUMACHER SHINE PANTSWho is going “as well as” the SUBTLE SHINE denim selected in sleek modern look, which also plays with sporty and urban bonds. Thanks to high stretch ultra soft, they still guaranteed with lamination rocking all the attention. So it is also the blacks who belongs in every closet and yet the Special Force for special occasions.

DOROTHEE SCHUMACHER JEWEL TONES BLOUSE Velvet is due, succeeds this casual getailorten Top with significant SCHUMACHER Blouse T-shape, a climb to the aristocratic Evening Piece. With incredible grip and handbesticktem rhinestone neckline the boxy blouse crowns every night at Grandes Dames chic of the Roaring Twenties. (as seen on Emily Blunt)

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ULfashionDOROTHEE SCHUMACHER SPIRIT BLOUSE TOP Despite effortless cotton, this Blusentop is a fashion statement: rocking jewelry and placed Garment Print define the highlight-Piece. Sporty details such as a continuous back zipper and drawstrings at the waist to bring the Easychic the poplin blouse to the point.

DOROTHEE SCHUMACHER JEWELS TONES SKIRTOne must copy the new skirts this season necessarily dominate: the gentle swing. In heavy velvet and a casual modern interpretation of wrinkles Rocks, this model of appearance with Twenties attitude works particularly authentic.

DOROTHEE SCHUMACHER PLATEAU BOOTSThe cosmopolitan: Mid-Heel Boots speak this season an urban language - cobblestone suitable and robust in design, material choice is brushed calfskin (on loan from the slippers of men). But even with noble prize, the white feminine seductive to emphasize the subtle nuances of our gentlewomen styling.

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Lidl were sharing the love in a rose-mantic way on Valentine’s Day at Victoria Square in Belfast by

showcasing their beautiful range of flowers available in stores NOW and all year round! They built a bespoke

flower wall in Victoria Square and shared the love all day by giving single stem red roses to passers-by.

A Lidl Love

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Catherine McKillop

Gemma McCorry, Fay Millar & Sophia McKeever &

Johnny Rowan and Allyn Somerville

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Lisamarie Wood and Alice Rayner

Aisling Wray and Ciara Kelly

Peter Smart and Helen Crothers

Stacey and Leanne Galloway

Megan Singh

Ellen Kirk and Beth Murphy

Available at Belleek Living stores and leading giftware stockists nationwide.

www.belleek.com /belleekpottery

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Omeya Day Spa is an award-winning spa which offers a place of tranquil luxury, just a short walk from the busy high street. As I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly staff and offered something warm to ‘up’ my internal temperature during this crazy weather bomb! In my detox mood, I chose a hot water with lemon, and my amazing morning started with a warm but clean feeling.

There is a lovely atmosphere in Omeya, with great offers on products to buy, like old faithfuls Dermologica and OPI Nail Varnish to name a few – and I was happy to pick up a personal fave in Dermalogica’s Special Cleansing Gel while I was there… But onto the main event – the DermaCo Skincare Facial.

Christmas party season is now behind us, and I am on the lookout for something new that will revive my sparkle for the New Year. Step forward the DermaCo Skincare Professional Facial to measure up to the challenge, compliments of the Omeya Day Spa in Bangor.

I am always looking for new treatments to try, especially ones that are non-invasive and give quick, visible and corrective results. DermaCo has quite the following throughout the UK and Ireland, with a few exclusive salons offering the tailored, cutting-edge technology which claims to allow therapists to create bespoke treatments for a youthful, more vibrant and nourished complexion; so naturally, my expectations were high. The DermaCo Professional Facials combine the use of thermotherapy, microdermabrasion and various light therapies to give clients the ultimate facial to revitalise their skin, all encompassed in one device. I chose to undertake a one-off facial with

the DermaCo treatments; however, it is recommended that you continue the treatment once every two months to maintain your youthful glow. I wasn’t disappointed and I will definitely be back for more.

Before I began my facial, I was led into a peaceful room where I was given a few minutes to myself to lie down and get comfortable. Precious minutes alone to concentrate on breathing and relaxing are rare for me – so I cherished even this part of the treatment.

The DermaCo unit is a 6 in 1 system that allows each beauty therapist to completely redesign a personalised treatment procedure for each individual client depending on their own personal needs and

A Fresh Start

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requirements. At Omeya Day Spa you have the option to choose Microdermabrasion Facial or the Light Therapy Facial. As I was there on a taster, I was lucky enough to try both.

The microdermabrasion element safely removes dead skin cells from the skin with a diamond tip abrasion method making it quick and painless - so fresh, new epidermis can grow and replace the removed skin. The exfoliation is a gradual process and there is no risk of deep, unequal exfoliation or scarring. This is followed up with LED light

therapy, which allows UV rays to penetrate the skin and increase collagen production, soothing irritations and helping with problematic issues like acne.

The results, I have to say, were instant. My face had a dewy glow and my cheeks had a rosy tint - I fully felt the effects right away. But although this facial is slightly more expensive than others, it did last me a few weeks, throughout a busy party season.

As expected, this treatment works best when you take care of your skin in between sessions, so a healthy diet and lots of water are advised to keep

your skin fresh and clear. And if you do (accidentally) wake up with your evening face still on the morning after the night before, the DermaCo facial will answer all of your wishes.

I’m definitely be going back early this year for round two as a freshen-up session.

High Street,Bangor,Co. DownBT20 5AZ

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As the most romantic day of the year approaches, Ulster Life is spreading a little love with our top picks for Valentine’s Day. Type Valentine’s Day into any search engine and prepare to be amazed and confused all at once! With literally thousands of ways to spend

the day with your better half, we’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up the best of what Northern Ireland has to offer.

True Romance

ALTERNATIVE NIGHT OUT: CABARET SUPPER CLUBPerfect for music lovers, Cabaret Supper Club truly know how to make it a night to remember! On Valentine’s weekend, enjoy a two course dinner and show from just £32.50 per person. Get a taste for the bright lights of Vegas as singing sensation Jamie Johnston takes to the stage with a host of classic tunes. For information on booking, visit: www.cabaretbelfast.com.

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MOST ROMANTIC: GALGORM RESORT & SPAThis is one hotel which just exudes romance! From the picturesque setting to the roaring fires and luxurious bedrooms, a surprise trip to Galgorm will definitely earn you brownie points. Enjoy fabulous fine dining in The River Room Restaurant, experience total relaxation in the Spa and don’t forget to take in the spectacular views from the ‘love swing’ by the river. Visit: www.galgorm.com for more information.

BEST FOR SPA BREAK: ROE PARK RESORTGet away from the hustle and busy of city life and take a trip to the rural Roe Park Resort in Limavady. This award winning hotel truly offers total relaxation and with both a golf course and a spa, it’s a win-win situation! Enjoy a sumptuous candlelight meal in the Taste of Ulster Accredited Greens restaurant before retiring to one of the hotel’s lavish bedrooms. Special weekend retreat packages are available at: www.roeparkresort.com.

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BLOW THE BUDGET: RAYANNE HOUSEReally want to pull out all the stops? Treat your Valentine to exquisite fine dining in

the five star guest house and private dining restaurant, Rayanne House. They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach so why not indulge in a gastronomic

delight this Valentine’s Day with a fabulous seven-course tasting menu, all prepared by an award winning chef! Get the details at: www.rayannehouse.com.

HIDDEN GEM: MOLLY’S YARDNestled just off Belfast’s bustling Botanic Avenue, you would be forgiven if you haven’t yet heard of this true hidden gem. Housed in the converted Victoria Stables and courtyard of College Green House, its distinct setting and superior modern Irish cuisine sets it apart from the rest. Check out their special Valentine’s Day menu at just £35pp at www.mollysyard.co.uk.

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It’s a NEW me!Dawn Pratt from Birmingham, England, talks to Aideen from MyUlsterLife about her amazing weight loss while on The New You Plan. The New You Plan was founded by Northern Irish entrepreneur Julie Ann Muldoon and is currently available UK and Ireland wide via www.thenewyouplan.com

How much weight you have lost with new you plan?Starting weight: 15st 0lbs, Loss on New You: 6stone ¾lb!

Amazing! – Can I ask how many dress sizes you dropped?6/7 (size 24 down to size 10)

What benefits have you seen todate? I’m sure your shopping experiences have changed dramatically!Well firstly, I saw my waistline forming very quickly, within 4 weeks (I didn’t think I’d ever have one!) and although my dress size took a few weeks

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ULto drop I can now shop in high street shops. When I was size 24 I had no chance! I can also just take clothes off the rack without having to search endlessly at the back for the largest size – That feeling alone puts a smile on your face. I also sleep a lot better, my weight no longer dictates the position I have to lie. From a health point of view my blood pressure has also normalised.

How have you found the support from The New You Plan? Secret Slimmer’s / speaking to anyone in the New You office etc?Where does one start?! The support from the plan, from the members, is honestly second to none. Customer Service goes above and beyond on every occasion and nothing is too much trouble for anyone, it’s like having massive daily family support. It’s amazing and probably one of the reasons I’ve succeeded. I now consider all of the customer service team friends and have made some amazing lifelong friends in some of the members also along the way.

What advice might you give to anyone who is just starting The New You Plan?To give it 100% from day one. It might be a struggle for the first few days but the rewards are amazing! 100% is the only way to guarantee the amazing results in the shortest amount of time. It’s not feasible for some people I know that but if you join and go the 5:2 way you will

also achieve your goal. 100% was what worked for me. Know your trigger times, and plan for them, save a meal if you struggle in the evenings and weekends.

How do you find it best to stay on track while on the diet?For the first few weeks I planned my daily meals and tried different meals until I found what I liked most and the times of day that were best for me to eat. Knowing your hunger triggers is important, for me it was evenings and weekends so I made sure I had at least 2 meals left for evenings so that I didn’t

get hungry. The Facebook Secret Slimmers page was created to help anyone who wants support. It is also essential for keeping you on track if you’re struggling a little – It’s a great support tool and is only accessible to customers. It’s also completely private for you to comment on. Only your fellow Secret Slimmers who are on the same journey can communicate with you. It’s amazing the support that gives along the way.

We all hate exercise – Did you do any exercise along the way?I didn’t do any exercise at all, I wanted pure losses without muscle gain initially. I have now joined a gym and intend to kick it all off during my long term maintenance. I must say that exercise becomes less of a chore as the weight comes off and it’s something you find yourself doing naturally. It becomes something you want to do and you no longer feel as self-conscious – Particularly in the Gym!

For more information on The New You Plan and to sign up for daily motivational emails visit www.thenewyouplan.com or telephone +44 28 3833 0720

I didn’t do any exercise at all, I wanted pure losses without muscle gain

initially. I have now joined a gym and

intend to kick it all off during my long term maintenance.

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Upon entering Sarah Jane Boutique, Coco Chanel’s infamous quote: “Fashion fades, only style remains the same” came to mind. Oozing style and sophistication, this boutique instantly set itself apart from anywhere else I had visited before.

Located in bustling Magherafelt, the store’s gorgeous window display draws you inside where modern interiors and a spacious layout boast rails of gorgeous designs, just waiting to be discovered. Established in 2010 by proprietor Sarah Jane, the boutique has gone from strength to strength and it is certainly easy to

see why. Housing top luxury brands at affordable prices, Sarah Jane has sourced far and wide to bring the discerning shopper something that little bit different.

Showcasing some of the very best European designers, alongside international brands exclusive to Ireland, stylistas can expect labels such as the fashion-forward BDBA, simply chic Cabotine and the fabulous Xenia. From everyday wear to occasion wear, revamp your wardrobe instantly! No look is complete without those all important finishing touches and thankfully you can choose from the boutique’s selection of on-trend hosiery, statement

A fashionista’s

dream!Ulster Life visits Sarah Jane

Boutique, Magherafelt.

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jewellery and killer clutches to complete your look.

Dedicated fashion followers will find all of winter’s hottest trends, from statement prints to cosy knitwear and stand out co-ords. Looking ahead to spring, Sarah Jane Boutique is promising a soft palette of colour and pretty prints, with new stock arriving daily.

So as well as fabulous clothes, what else makes this boutique so unique? Customer service is the best in the business here. Expect expert advice and a keen eye from the talented staff, who will give you the freedom to shop without pressure but are definitely on-hand to help should you need it. So whether you are a trendsetter or fashion follower, make Sarah Jane Boutique your first port of call this season! www.sarah-jane-boutique.com

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www.cilentodesignerwear.com

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Chaka TravelThis month Ulster Life visits a truly amazing Honeymoon destination, Magical Mauritius.Mauritius truly is a paradise Island. Located in the Indian Ocean, it really is the perfect choice for your honeymoon or wedding abroad. Think white sandy beaches, crystal blue waters, coral reefs and dramatic mountains, it is truly breath-taking. The climate is virtually all year around and has the friendliest people of all the places I have been

to, going the extra mile to make your trip special.

Mauritius is around an 11.5 hours flight from Belfast or Dublin, offered by Emirates, Air Mauritius and British Airways. It is a stunning destination either on its own and also twinned with Dubai, South Africa or Seychelles. There are a range of properties on the island; whether you want 3*

or 5*, your own private pool or a hotel closer to a town with a little more activity.

This fabulous destination has the advantage of many luxurious hotels who want to wow you with their service and make your trip special. They offer fantastic discounts for honeymooners and various little treats from romantic dinners to spa treatments complimentary.

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ULtravelMauritian cuisines is as

diverse as its culture with dishes of Indian, Chinese, Creole and European origin. The fresh produce and seafood is also delicious, something for every palate.

You may choose to spend your trip enjoying the weather, spa treatments and amazing dishes your resort offers but there are options if you would like a little more activity. Some of the things to do include playing golf, with some hotels offering complimentary green fees, deep sea fishing or taking one of the many wonderful trips the island has to offer.

Some of my favourite things to do include visiting Tamarin Bay. A group of wild dolphins have chosen Tamarin Bay on the west coast as their natural habitat. They can often be seen in the morning and in the late afternoons. Dolphin watching can be done either on deluxe Catamarans with other people of you can hire a speedboat with experienced crew which allows a closer approach to the dolphins. Combine time with the dolphins with snorkelling in some amazing places and having lunch on a deserted island.

Casela Nature reserve is a must see also. Set in a magnificent site between Bambous and Tamarin in the Rivière Noire district, the Casela Park hosts some 140 varieties of birds from around the world. The main attraction remains the Mauritian Pink Pigeon, one of the rarest birds in the world, still fighting to avoid the fate of the Dodo, which was

native to Mauritius. Casela is home to some giant tortoises, one of which is 150 years old! As well as quad biking, zip lining and sedge way, walking with lions is an experience to never to be forgotten!

Once you visit Mauritius you will discover the meaning of true beauty, having an unforgettable holiday to a destination you will want to

return to again and again! Chaka Travel have been

tailor-making trips to Mauritius since 1995 and offer many exclusives on the island.

For more information please contact them on 028 9023 2112, enquiries@chakatravel.com or visit their website www.chakatravel.com

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EDEL & HUGHVenue: Lough Erne Hotel Bridal Wear: McElhinney’s Hair: Public ImageMake-up: Pure IndulgenceGrooms wear: Evolve Band: The Goodfellas BandPhotography: Donal Doherty

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EMMA & EDWARDVenue: Carrickdale Hotel & SpaBridal Wear: Maggie Sottero Hair: Andy Mullan @ Hedonist Hair Make-up: Rebecca Saulters @ MAC Groomswear: Dapper Dudes Room Backdrop: Creative Design Weddings Photography location: Tullyveery House by Donal Doherty

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SECRETWeapons...By Eve BrannonSponsored by BODY VIBES

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR There are several benefits to including cider vinegar in your diet: it increases insulin sensitivity and significantly lowers blood sugar responses during meals. Studies show that apple cider vinegar increases satiety – keeping you fuller for longer, as well as lowering cholesterol.

PROTEINDietary protein refers to any food or supplemental source of protein.

Protein is important for muscle growth and exercise due to the mass of amino acids required to build muscle. For maximal improvements in muscle growth and exercise performance, you must consume a sufficient amount of protein. Aim for 1g of protein per pound of body weight per day.

5–HTP5-HTP works in the central nervous system by increasing the production of serotonin.

Serotonin can affect sleep, appetite and pain sensation. It is used for several ailments where serotonin plays an important role including depression, insomnia, obesity, and many other conditions. Supplementing 5-HTP is also known to reduce carbohydrate cravings and evidence suggests it is especially effective when used by obese and diabetic people.

CAFFEINECaffeine, used wisely, can be a successful fat burner. It stimulates the nervous system, which sends direct signals to break down stored fats and release them into the blood, which can then be used for fuel by the body. Studies show that caffeine can increase the metabolic rate and therefore speed up metabolism. To supplement caffeine an advised RDA is 100 – 200 mg twice a day.

COCONUTIn many forms! Named as “nature’s sports drink,” coconut water is a great way to rehydrate after sweating. It contains high levels of potassium and essential electrolytes, is low in calories and is naturally fat and cholesterol free. Coconut oil – cook with it or add it to your morning coffee. The benefits of coconut oil act on hair, skin, stress, cholesterol levels, weight loss, immune system, digestion and metabolism.

MY ‘SECRET WEAPON’? …. Definitely BODY VIBES gym!

This issue I have put together a few little ‘secret weapons’ that, when consumed, can contribute to a healthier, happier and fitter you this spring…

*Always consult your GP before taking any supplements

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COMPETITION TIME!BODY VIBES have teamed up with Vita Coco to kick off spring the healthy way by giving one lucky Ulster Life reader a chance to win three months supply of NI’s favourite hydrating 100% coconut water! For a chance to win, simply log on to Twitter and tell @VitaCocoNI your favourite flavour using the hashtag #UlsterLife. One lucky winner will be chosen and announced via Twitter on Friday 20th March.

KATE SMITH, BROADCASTER AND JOURNALISTI first saw a Power Plate in action in a gym in the South

of France and decided if it was good enough for those gorgeous French women it was good enough for me... how delighted was I when Garvan Liddy opened Body Vibes on the Lisburn Road in Belfast! It’s a half hour session that covers any exercises I’ve ever done in the gym and the theory is that the Power Plate intensifies the exercises. Add to that the fact that it’s the equivalent of Personal Training, since the class sizes are so small! I’m delighted at the benefits, and for the fee and the time out of my day it’s fantastic value. I wear my BV t-shirt with pride!

LAUREN CAMPBELL, MARKETING MANAGER, VICTORIA SQUARE Since starting just

8 weeks ago, I have been extremely pleased with the results from Body Vibes. The short classes fit perfectly into my busy working week and although intensive, they are actually enjoyable! No two classes are

Check Out Testimonials From Other Members…

the same and sessions are kept interesting and challenging with the use of Power Plates, weights and other equipment the guys throw into the mix! I am feeling fitter and more toned already and I’m excited to be beach ready before summer.

SHARON MCGUIRK, LADIESWEAR MANAGER, CRUISEAttending classes has given me

the confidence to achieve not only a greater level of fitness, but goals I never thought possible. I suffered a TIA several years ago, resulting in problems with coordination and balance, together with restricted feeling and power down one side. Using Power Plates continuously has strengthened my core stability and definitely aided

with better coordination. Body Vibes is definitely a workout for mind, body and soul!

REBECCA MCKINNEY, COOL FM PRESENTERI have been training with Body Vibes for almost

a month and have really noticed a difference in my general fitness, as well as my overall body confidence. The classes work perfectly with my work schedule and each session is so varied that I never get bored working out anymore. Garvan really knows his stuff and listens to the key areas that I want to target. Anyone who can make me laugh while on a Power Plate is a winner in my eyes! I’m loving my Body Vibes journey and am so excited to see where we can take it.