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5 BENEFITS OF PRESCHOOL & EARLY EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN

Editorial Team
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5 BENEFITS OF PRESCHOOL & EARLY EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN

Making decisions that can impact your child’s development and wellbeing can be stressful, to say the least. There’s so much contradictory advice out there, and making informed, practical decisions on such precious topics can be tough. 

The COVID-19 crisis has only made such choices about your child’s education all the more complicated. While primary and secondary schools are set to reopen in the coming weeks, nurseries have remained operational for the majority of the crisis, highlighting the importance of early education for children’s development and even enabling a preliminary acquisition of soft skills during what has otherwise been a challenging time.

Yep, it’s hard to overstate the importance of nursery school, but state we shall; here are 5 benefits of preschool and early education for children.

PREPARING FOR ACADEMIA THROUGH PLAY

Play is how children introduce themselves to the world, and atmospheres which facilitate, encourage and diversify a child’s access to play can be hugely beneficial to their learning and development.

According to the good guys at UK children’s charity Family Lives, ‘’Young children can develop many skills through the power of play. They may develop their language skills, emotions, creativity and social skills. Play helps to nurture imagination and give a child a sense of adventure. Through this, they can learn essential skills such as problem solving, working with others, sharing and much more’’. 

The emphasis here is on power we think; play is one hell of force for preschool children finding their feet in the world, and contributes to soft skills – like teamwork, interpersonal relationships, communication, and curiosity – and neurological development which could serve them so well in later life.

An early childhood education centre that focuses on child-initiated, child-led play can have a tremendously positive effect on your kid. Should you be considering local preschool and nursery programmes, take note of centres that emphasise the value of play. ELCACenters.com double down on that power of play we mentioned, suggesting that it’s essential to ‘’encourage children to be active thinkers, and to learn through experimentation and expression. Using real materials through play helps children develop intellectual skills and creative abilities that will last a lifetime’’. We couldn’t agree more.

GRADUAL RATHER THAN ACCELERATED LEARNING BENEFITS CHILDREN MOST

Ever wonder why children learn so much more quickly than adults? It’s not because their learning is regimented, strict and rushed. Quite the opposite in fact; during the early phase of neuronal development, particularly pertinent for toddlers, the brain exhibits more plasticity. 

Because children haven’t learnt regimes and rituals to the point of being ingrained, their minds are far more malleable and responsive to new information. Us adults, sticklers for routine that we are, have trouble building new pathways in the brain because of this. Children, much to their benefit, don’t have the same problem.

Starting a child in early education, where the focus falls on freedom to play, explore and be curious, benefits their learning hugely. On the flip side, studies have found that encouraging academic pursuits like reading and maths at too young of an age can have detrimental results on a child’s development. Children in Finnish schools, for instance, don’t learn to read until they’re seven years old—and Finland has the highest adult literacy rate in the world. Food for thought, indeed.

As such, when on the search for the ideal nursery for your child, ask potential education centre about the amount of material that they teach (or better, don’t teach) in their curriculum. Accelerated learning and testing have been shown to be counterproductive—it actually slows down a child’s learning.

SETTING DISTINCTION ENCOURAGES PROBLEM SOLVING & ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Attending a preschool can help with your child’s neurological development, that much we’ve established. But having a routine each day distinct from the familiar four walls of home, with predictable outcomes and the odd surprise, is brilliant for toddlers to develop skills which might traditionally escape them, particularly problem solving and organisation.

There are several key developmental skills which young preschoolers will be learning and honing:

  • Counting objects as well as developing the ability to describe and sort them via their characteristics (shapes, sizes, colours)
  • Problem solving, via planning, discussion, suggestion and building
  • An interest develops in knowledge accumulation regarding biology, both of their own bodies and the natural world around them
  • An understanding of the structure of how the day develops, and recognising the similarities and differences between, for instance, school days and weekends
  • Taking apart and putting items back together

Attending pre-school helps finesse these skills in a new environment, which reinforces organisation and problem solving in the child’s mind, before this development can be applied in the domestic setting, too.

LEARN THE VALUE OF FRIENDSHIP

Making friends and playing with them is a wonderful experience at any age, let’s be honest. But it is particularly beloved of young children, who learn so much from forming bonds and communicating with their young peers. 

Studies have found that, from the perspective of the child, the social element of early childhood education is the most appealing, and encourages commitment in the more mundane areas, too. If your child is without siblings or neighbours, in particular, this might mean they could benefit extra from the social experience of an education program.

Just some of the benefits of these early instances of building friendships include:

  • Developing a capacity for empathy
  • Learning sharing, cooperation and negotiation
  • Practicing communication skills
  • Stress relief

In many truly magical instances, friends for life can be made at preschool. Just how lovely is that?

INTRODUCTION TO HOBBIES

Finally, an early childhood education program has the potential to introduce your child to new things that they will grow to love. Some programs have gardens that kids can nurture plants in. Some have different sports equipment or musical instruments. Some boast pet rabbits, guinea pigs or gerbils. In fact, preschool education presents a diverse range of stimulating, educational activities, many of which are integral, not only to a child’s development, but also their sense of worth and wellness.

Part of being so young is exploring the world and finding the things that stimulate them. It’s possible that an early childhood education program could form hobbies and interests which last for a lifetime, and there’s something rather special about that, don’t you think? 

THE BOTTOM LINE

A child’s development is a precious, beautiful thing, and every single child walks their own unique path when forming a personality, perspectives and relationships with their peers. Preschool and early education play a vital role in this process, and we hope your child finds their first formative years a joy!

4 STYLISH SHOE TRENDS FOR SPRING 2021

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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4 STYLISH SHOE TRENDS FOR SPRING 2021

Wondering what spring 2021 will bring? Well, this season in the shoe world, it’s all about comfort and practicality. After a year spent indoors, we’re all in need of shoes for exploring and stomping around in, but spare a thought for our poor feet; they’ve got a little tender over lockdown, and getting used to stepping out with swagger is going to take some time.

But what about fashion, we hear you cry? Well, luckily this coming season is all about functionality. As Marie Claire point out, “For spring 2021, it was clear that practicality was top of mind for designers and in the demand from consumers…Even if we can’t predict what our next six months will look like, we can find relief in the fact that most designers are leaning into familiar styles that should hold up for a couple of seasons still”. 

Actually, we might just be able to predict the items likely to put a spring in our step this season. In fact, we’re going to do it below; here are 4 stylish shoe trends for Spring 2021.

OVERSIZED ‘FASHION’ SNEAKERS 

Well, we did say that this season, we needed some shoes to stomp around in, whether that’s on the beach or to wear in the office, and the ideal iteration of a stomping-around-shoe is surely the Vans old skool sneaker. 

Sneakers for spring have always been an obvious choice, embracing that lightness of touch and spirit of optimism that the changing of the season brings, and chunky, oversized trainers have been in trend for a while thanks to Alexander McQueen. Indeed, they were touted as one of the “hottest women’s products” for 2019, and that’s pretty much remained the case ever since. 

The fashion designer’s oversized signature sneakers, in particular, have gained well-deserved cult status and other brands have followed, loosening and widening the silhouettes of their sneakers to replicate the design. They do say imitation is the finest form of flattery, after all. 

This oversized shoe trend is set to continue as sneakers get more experimental in shape and colour this season. Chunky-soled platform styles are also set to be a huge trend, which brings us to our next point….

CHUNKY TREAD SOLES 

This spring, the bovver boot has been reimagined. In their article titled ‘Treading Tightly is now this year’s sole desire’ (geddit?), the fashion folk at The Times say that “Clumpy, track sole ankle boots have been must-haves for the style set on their daily walks during the pandemic, but news of the vaccine roll-out hasn’t stopped their spread — in fact, they have mutated”. 

Indeed, it seems like “heavy track” sole rubber ankle and knee high boots are growing in popularity, emblematic (and encouraging) of outward bound hikes in the wilderness whenever the government granted us the chance.  

The guys at the Times highlight that “The pertinence of the trend is more good news for the original punk boot brand Dr Martens”. This famous brand is, of course, known for their chunky shoes and platform-esque soles – think their classic 1461 Quad with marked, unmistakable yellow welt stitch.

PLATFORM SANDALS

We’re going all the way back to the 90’s for this one! Platform sandals, beloved of The Spice Girls, are back and we can’t wait to wear them. If you’re looking to boost your spring shoe collection, then platform sandals are the ideal way to do it – in more ways than one. Easy to wear and ideal for that stomping around we keep mentioning, these solid block shoes also give you that extra height to make a bold first impression on friends you haven’t seen in a while….’my, how you’ve grown!’

CHUNKY, CUTE CLOGS 

Practical and comfortable, clogs are a footwear item that tends to divide the nation. While some think they are cute, others firmly place them in the ‘ugly shoe camp’, considering the clog to be too close a cousin of the croc. Let’s not get started on how divisive those are.

However, whether you love them or hate them, one thing is for sure; you’re going to be seeing (and wearing) a lot more of them this spring. Yep, clogs are going to be big this year, and provide that marriage of convenience and cuteness which looks likely to define 2021’s footwear.

You can thank fashion brand Hermès for bringing this unapologetically orthopaedic shoe back into fashion. The luxury fashion brand slipped a chunky pair of clogs  on all their models, pairing them with everything from leather miniskirts, shorts to sleek black trouser suits, and the fashion world followed suit. Heel clogs have clomped their way back into fashion, too, and look great with flowery summer skirts. Get them while they’re hot, but the weather isn’t quite.

Oh, and if you were wondering, we’re firmly in the cute camp! 

Keen to consider your seasonal wardrobe further? Here are 7 IDEAL fashion must haves for spring.

5 TIPS FOR COOKING A RESTAURANT STANDARD MEAL IN LOCKDOWN

Editorial Team
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5 TIPS FOR COOKING A RESTAURANT STANDARD MEAL IN LOCKDOWN

 

The end is (hopefully) almost here. Barring further government U-turns, the British public can hope to be dining in restaurants and enjoying the company of friends and family under a new and exciting roof within three months.

For some missing the thrill of fine food, the clink of wine glasses, the intimacy of good company, and the feeling of being spoilt, three months still feels like a long way away. If you’ve a special occasion approaching and you want to go all-out, creating a fine dining meal at home with all the appropriate bells and whistles attached, then there are few things you can do to elevate your dinner from good to gastronomic. 

With that in mind, here are 5 tips for cooking a restaurant standard meal in lockdown.

LOCKDOWN LARDER

Any self-respecting restaurant worth its pink Himalayan salt doesn’t just nip down to the local Tesco Metro to source their ingredients. Nope, the provenance of the fresh produce has never been held in higher regard, with farmers and fishermen regularly getting name checked on modern day fine dining restaurant menus.

So, instead of relying on your local supermarket, make sure your lockdown larder is stocked with premium produce, particularly where protein, vegetables and fruit are concerned. 

You can find veg boxes of the highest, freshest quality from companies like Abel & Cole, Pale Green Dot and Natoora, who in more normal times are suppliers to some of the UK’s best restaurants. Due to hospitality’s ongoing shutdown, they have diversified their offering, with the public now able to get access to their fantastic produce via a few clicks of a button. 

The same thing has happened with butchers and fishmongers; you can buy meat online as well as fish from top suppliers usually reserved for the fine dining restaurants and top chefs of the country. Hell, even Waitrose have got in on the act, and have been selling top quality, MSC certified clams originally destined for the UK’s best eateries. 

For the ideal restaurant standard meal at home, you should first focus on sourcing the best produce you can get your hands on.

MISE EN PLACE

Once the shopping’s done, the hard part begins. Now, you actually have to cook it. Organisation, cleanliness and timing are key, and no chef gets very far in the industry without a keen grasp of all three. 

In the world of professional cooking, the term ‘mise en place’ is a mantra that all chefs live by. Though it translates from French roughly as ‘setting up’, as an ethos, it means so much more than that. 

To approach your meal prep in a way which produces restaurant like results, you need to work in a meticulous, precise way. To-do lists should be made, ingredients and tools collected ahead of time, and your slicing, chopping, marinating, mincing and the rest done in advance, too, in the most time-efficient manner possible. 

Then, everything is boxed up and put in its optimum position for ‘service’ – the salt is to the left of the stove, you’ve several tasting spoons in a tub of warm water, your pans are all lined up so their handles are facing the same way – making cooking as effortless as possible. Or rather, as effortless as it can be with twenty checks on the rail and a head chef demanding several simultaneously. Though your only critic will be your partner or family, you did say you wanted this to be restaurant standard, right?

Master this mindset and the delicious dinners will come. 

WOW-FACTOR FOOD

So you’ve honed your mindset and got some great suppliers on speed dial. Now, you need to figure out what you’re actually going to cook. Baked camembert, spag bol, and chocolate brownies this ain’t. We said restaurant standard, didn’t we, so you’re going to need to up your game where your menu writing is concerned.

As we mentioned earlier, it’s a good idea to let your produce dictate the menu. The trick, we think, is to pick one main, premium ingredient for each course – say a côte de boeuf or whole turbot – and build everything else around it with complementary sides and flavours. It’s the classiest way of doing things; allowing a carefully sourced main event to speak for itself with the supporting cast chosen thoughtfully and effortlessly. In the right hands, the rest writes itself. 

Restaurant dishes are usually surprisingly paired back, too. Rather than serving up several vegetable sides, as you would with a roast dinner, for instance, you should instead focus on just one or two vegetable elements which pair beautifully with the main event. Then, all you have to do is make a killer sauce (jus, gravy, reduction…call it what you like) and you have yourself a restaurant standard meal made!

FINE WINE-ING

If you’re going all-out with a gourmet meal – nibbles, starters, mains, desserts, cheeses and all – why not announce the arrival of each new course with a wine which will enhance its enjoyment? Because let’s face it, fine wine is all part of the restaurant experience, and when it’s paired aptly with the food, well, that’s pure alchemy right there.

If you’re keen to channel that in vogue, totally trendy London wine bar vibe, then check out our tips on how to create the IDEAL wine bar experience at home for more.

FINISH-AT-HOME BOXES

Hey, you know what would be more ‘restaurant standard’ than anything you could cook (not doing down your skills or anything) at home? 

Not having to cook at all. Because restaurants are all about sitting back and allowing your evening’s pleasure to be in the very capable hands of highly trained professionals. 

Sure, you could cook. But if you’re spending the entire evening staring at a flaccid soufflé praying it stands to attention, setting fire to a tea towel and yelling at your partner to disable the smoke alarm, it’s not exactly a fun experience for anyone. 

To truly create an ideal restaurant experience at home (and avoid the washing up) why not avail yourself of one of the many fantastic finish-at-home restaurant meal kits currently being offered by the UK’s top chefs? Check out this breakdown of some of the best to get inspired (perhaps not if you’re hungry, though!).

STARTING UNI IN SEPTEMBER 2021: SHOULD YOU LIVE AT HOME OR IN HALLS?

Editorial Team
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STARTING UNI IN SEPTEMBER 2021: SHOULD YOU LIVE AT HOME OR IN HALLS?


In recent years, the idea of a traditional three-year, exam-led path through academia has changed hugely. Vocational and associate degrees, placements, internships, long distance learning and mature study have all gained traction, and this can only be a positive thing, opening up the opportunity to attend university to a more diverse range of student than ever before.

It still remains to be seen just how much COVID-19 will affect student life and learning in the near and more distant future, with recent months being particularly hard on students. A sense prevails that the government has failed those attending university and those preparing for it in myriad, neglectful ways.

Some hope, however, is on the horizon, with the UK vaccination program going well, on campus learning tentatively beginning again, and study-as-normal hopefully set to resume for the next academic year, beginning in 2021. 

Of course, university isn’t only about the degree at the end of it. Perhaps one of the main benefits of University is that it gives young people the excuse to break out on their own and experience life as an individual. 

A large part of that is the idea of moving away from home for what might be the very first time; there will be bolognese recipes to master, you’ll have to learn to tolerate Sambuca, and most importantly, you may well make friends for life along the way. But university housing and, particularly, university halls are certainly not cheap, and with so many courses being altered in line with COVID restrictions, many more are thinking, quite frankly, “what’s the point of living on campus?”

With all that’s happened in the past year, you’re probably wondering if living away from home is crucial for the full University experience? Or can you get by quite comfortably (and save a small fortune) by staying at home? Below, we’ll take a brief look at the pros and cons of both choices, and give aspirant students some food for thought on the question; if you’re starting university in September 2021, should you live at home or in halls? 

LIVING AT UNIVERSITY BENEFITS

Freedom – There’s undeniable freedom with living away from home for the first time. No parents to answer to (or for!) and your own space to work from as you develop your education and your post-school personality, all at your own pace. This is what university life is all about, and the element most missing, for so many, during the COVID downtime. 

Financial support – It costs to live away from home for the first time, that’s for sure, and newly independent students have to learn life skills like budgeting, foresight and self-discipline in real time. That said, for those who do choose to live away from home, financial support is available, in the form of government grants, credits, and direct help from your university, too.

There are also loans for students that offer low-interest rates, as well as the opportunity for part time work in and around university, which provides a social aspect as well as a little extra income. Do bear in mind, though, that balancing work and study can be tough. Speaking of that social aspect…

Social life – Traditionally (and still largely true to this day), there are two reasons to go to University – the education and the experience. Perhaps the largest aspect of that ‘experience’ is the social life. 

Cheap drinks at the student union bar, nights at the local clubs singing along to that song by Journey, and gigs at the local venues; it’s a rites of passage for so many prior to adult life beginning. It might not be possible right now but come September when the world is (hopefully) back to normal, that social aspect, of freedom, frolics and frivolity, is best realised when living on campus or in halls.

LIVING AT HOME BENEFITS

Savings – Though you’ll likely be entitled to less government and university support financially if you continue to live with your family, you’ll save a small fortune staying at home during your University studies, all of which can be put towards other experiences later down the line, perhaps travelling, a new car or maybe even a deposit on a house.

Do remember that your parents may expect you to contribute to the smooth running of the household should you be living there as an adult; it’s not fair to expect them to financially support you all the way through university!

Support – You might make some amazing friends at Uni but they may not be able to offer you the same level of emotional support as your family. The more stressful aspects of the university experience, such as looming deadlines and inevitable relationship dramas, are more manageable from the security of home. And let’s face it, your mum or dad’s cooking isn’t going to do any harm, either.

Peace and quiet – Particularly for those who are used to a slower pace, the jump into Uni life can be something of a shock. Student housing and halls are loud places to live, with comings and goings, parties and pumping music the order of the day, even at the best of times (and these are certainly not the best of times). Should you prefer peace and quiet, living at home might suit you better.

Home is where the heart is – Finally, life is difficult for everyone right now and we need all the comfort we can get. You might not feel ready to leave home yet and with the country on lockdown, you’re even more likely to want to cling onto that comfort for a little longer. Remember that it’s perfectly possible to have a rewarding University experience from home, and many are preferring this option since COVID changed the game so comprehensively.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Everyone’s situation and personal preferences are, of course, different. Rather than come to any conclusions about whether it’s better to live in halls or at home during your studies, we hope we’ve provided you with a little food for thought going forward. Either way, we hope you enjoy your time as a student as much as we did!

WHAT TO EXPECT AT AN EAR WAX REMOVAL APPOINTMENT

Editorial Team
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WHAT TO EXPECT AT AN EAR WAX REMOVAL APPOINTMENT

Hello? Excuse me? Can you hear us? 

Feeling blocked up? You’re not alone. Ear wax is naturally produced by our bodies to protect the ears from damage, and everyone suffers from the occasional build up, with some more insistent than others. 

That said, if a build up becomes irritable and sometimes even painful, it may likely need medical intervention to get it cleared up. Often those experiencing symptoms of build-up – which include earache, difficulty hearing, itchiness, dizziness, an ear infection or possibly even tinnitus – may need to consider booking an ear wax removal appointment with an Audiologist, a fairly harmless procedure which we’ll delve into below. 

An Audiologist will be able to examine your ear internally and externally to ensure there are no wider concerns regarding your hearing health. They will then carry out the procedure of ear wax removal. Depending on the Audiologist and your individual circumstances, your ear wax may be removed using one of several removal options. With that in mind, here’s what to expect at an ear wax removal appointment.

MICROSUCTION REMOVAL

One of the more advanced procedures in the audiologist’s armoury is Microsuction, which is generally reserved for more serious cases of build up in a patient.

Microsuction consists of sucking the wax out with a suction device, and represents the most comprehensive treatment available, with Camden Opticians Group telling us that ‘’due to the nature of the suction, ear wax can be removed from the ear, irrespective of whether it is soft or hard. This differs from other methods such as syringing and water irrigation where wax has to be treated beforehand with drops to encourage a softer consistency.’’

Because of this, microsuction is probably the cleanest, most effective method of ear wax removal. During an appointment, ear wax can usually be removed from the ear within 30-minutes. Because of the efficiency of this procedure, it will cost more than a simple, though often unreliable, DIY effort, ranging from £200 to £400, on average.

Your appointment will also usually include pictures of the ear canals before removal, removal of wax from both ears and pictures after to demonstrate the health of the ear canals and ear drums. Though this may sound a little gross, it can actually be reassuring and testament to the skilled work involved.

Due to microsuction’s adaptability at dealing with both hard and soft wax, you will not be asked to treat the wax with oil or drops before your appointment. In a few cases, a follow up visit may be required; your audiologist will discuss this with you following the initial procedure. Generally speaking, this will only incur a minor additional fee. 

MANUAL WAX REMOVAL 

An alternative method of ear wax removal is to remove the ear wax manually. Though this isn’t ideally suited to larger build ups, it can work for minor cases.

During such a procedure, small amounts of earwax are removed using a tool called a Jobson Horne. A Jobson Horne is used to remove the ear wax usually within the entrance of the ear canal. This instrument will not hurt or damage your ear or your hearing, but should be used by a professionally trained Audiologist, who is trained in removing ear wax this way. Attempting a DIY procedure with a device simply isn’t safe, and could damage the eardrum. 

Typically, the appointment time for manual removal will be around 30 minutes, although this is dependent upon how stubborn or hard the wax may be. Unlike Microsuction, you may be required to insert oil or drops into your ear before your appointment to soften the wax for removal; your Audiologist will inform you beforehand if this is the case. 

With manual wax removal, you may be required to attend multiple appointments if there is a lot of wax build-up, as the procedure is less comprehensive than Microsuction. This is reflected in a lower price; expect to pay a flat fee of around £100.  

EAR IRRIGATION

If you have never had ear wax removed before, you may still be familiar with ear irrigation as a wax removal method. 

This is the flushing of ear wax from the ear using water, and can either be carried out professionally or at home, using a kit available in most high street pharmacies. Generally speaking, this is the only procedure which is safe to carry out at home, though it will be more effective when carried out by an audiologist.

You can expect your appointment to last around 30 minutes and to potentially return for multiple visits with this method of ear wax removal. The water is typically heated to body temperature to make this procedure comfortable and to avoid shock to the inner ear. 

The Audiologist will hold an ear cup under your ear to catch any fall out, water or wax. Then, the irrigation probe will be inserted into the canal, where the Audiologist will begin the introduction of water into the ear. The water is precisely inserted into the ear to avoid damage and to dislodge the wax. Once the wax is collected into the ear cup, your ear will be cleared of water and dried. 

IS EAR WAX REMOVAL PAINFUL?

All of the methods of removal we have mentioned are painless when carried out by a professional. It is always important to note that the best option for wax removal is to book an appointment with an Audiologist who can offer their professional advice and treatment, as the inner ear and drum are a surprisingly tender, prone body part.

As such, choosing to remove wax at home can be harmful for your ear canal and drum. On the flip side, an Audiologist will ensure the procedure is comfortable and most appropriate for your individual circumstances. Good luck!

LOCKDOWN LIVING ALONE: 5 PLACES TO FIND FRIENDSHIP & SUPPORT ONLINE

Editorial Team
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LOCKDOWN LIVING ALONE: 5 PLACES TO FIND FRIENDSHIP & SUPPORT ONLINE

If you’ve alighted on this page because you’re living alone during lockdown, firstly, how are you? We hope you’re doing okay, and if you ever need someone to talk to, don’t hesitate to scroll down to the very bottom of our home page and click Say Hello. 

Lockdown in the UK has led to a loneliness epidemic, with the BBC reporting in November 2020 that 8% of the adult population (that’s a whopping 4.2 million) are ‘’always or often lonely’’. Four months of strict measures later, and we can only imagine how that number has increased.

If you feel like you’re lacking social contact, camaraderie and companionship, then you don’t have to do this thing alone. There are support groups, professionals, community organisations and more, all ready to lend a helping hand and a friendly ear to those feeling isolated. If you’re living alone in lockdown, then here are 5 places to find friendship and support online.

VIRTUAL CLUBS & CLASSES

Book clubs, pottery classes, poetry readings and 5-a-side football…in the pre-pandemic world we were spoilt for choice regarding the various clubs and classes we could join in order to nurture a niche passion. Of course, that was only half of it; the primary reason for attending these various get togethers was to meet new people and, hopefully, make new friends.

Fortunately, like so much of the rest of the world, these various clubs and classes have moved online, and still represent a great way to interact with strangers and form meaningful connections. 

Perhaps the most popular (and populated) are online group exercise classes; DigMe is widely used across the UK, and offers a 21 days for free and a trial community class to help get going. Alternatively, you could give their online yoga classes a go; they have four different instructors to choose from and that invaluable access to interaction with both the instructor and the group.

Or, if you feel more comfortable in chorus, there are a whole host of fantastic online choirs you could join to harness that sense of community you’re missing. Some of the best include:

  • The Sofa Singers, who gather every week at 7:30pm on a Tuesday and 11am on a Friday.
  • Sing Out Strong, who place a strong focus on mental health and well being.
  • Or for something a little, shall we say, stronger, it has to be Rock Choir? Sign of the Horns at the ready!

There are also online book clubs offering community, support and discussion active across the UK right now. Check out these useful round-up of 9 of the best to join now .

COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS

Obviously, you don’t need to be engaged in an activity to reach out for support. There are loads of community based support groups and forums currently doing good work online, connecting people and offering peer-to-peer support to those who need it.

It’s been reported in recent years that the elderly, in particular, are suffering from a loneliness epidemic, and COVID has only exacerbated this. Reengage is a charity which facilitates contact between seniors who may be suffering from loneliness; right now, their ‘call companions’ platform is doing great work. On the other end of the phone, check out Age UK’s campaign, where you can become an Age UK digital buddy and provide companionship to those in need.

Similarly, Befriending Networks exist across the country, connecting those who are feeling isolated and alone with kind-hearted folk who are always up for a chat. You can find a Befriender here. 

Mind, the UK’s largest mental health charity, also boasts a large, diverse and support online community, Side by Side, where you can find peer-to-peer support in the form of forums, discussion groups and support via private, one-to-one messaging with like minded, supportive people. The forum is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is moderated everyday between 8:30am and midnight. 

REACH OUT TO A PROFESSIONAL

This has been an incredibly tough time for everyone, but particularly for those living alone, who don’t have someone to turn to regularly. If you feel like you need someone to talk to in a more professional capacity, with all the treatment recommendations and expertise that entails, then you can find that help available online, too.

Though speaking to a professional won’t necessarily offer you the companionship you’re seeking, if you’re in need of support and advice, it can really help. Check out the UK’s Counselling Directory to find a therapist today.

Group therapy is another option available, and may help those suffering from low self-esteem or lack of confidence to open up in a supportive, confidential setting. Facilitated by a professional and populated by like-minded people, many have found such therapy to be profoundly effective in finding support and advice in novel places. If you’re keen to learn more about whether group therapy is right for you, then click here.

APPS

Just as the pairing of smartphones and location services made finding a romantic partner as easy as a few swipes and a corny chat up line, so too can you now find friends – actual friends – easily using apps. Bumble BFF is a way of expanding your social circle using the same interface as a dating app would; there’s a photo, a brief bio, and the chance to match with likeminded people, have a chat, and establish a connection.

Other similar apps which help match lonely folk seeking platonic fun include Huggle, Whistle and Patook. Though these friendship-pairing apps were available prior to lockdown, the idea has truly come into its own since. Lovely stuff!

SOCIAL MEDIA

Using social media to make connections seems almost quaint after all the forward-thinking, expansive ideas we’ve already suggested. But never has there been a better time to rekindle old relationships which have fallen victim to packed schedules and physical distances. Why not call that friend you haven’t spoken to in years? More often than not, you’ll find the spark is still there, and it’ll feel like you’ve made a whole new buddy!

Alternatively, you could initiate a Zoom call or phone conversation with an acquaintance you’ve previously only shared memes with on Twitter or the odd comment on Instagram, or reach out to a colleague you’ve always shared friendly office banter with, and see if they fancy making friends? Build on fleeting friendships and make them something more permanent, because let’s face it, we’re all feeling a little lonely right now.

And if you’re looking for more ways to reach out and make a connection, check out these 4 ways to stay connected and keep a sense of community during lockdown.

*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP first*

6 TIPS ON HOW TO START A FOOD BUSINESS FROM YOUR HOME KITCHEN

Editorial Team
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6 TIPS ON HOW TO START A FOOD BUSINESS FROM YOUR HOME KITCHEN

Since COVID changed just about every facet of our everyday, more people than ever have found solace in the kitchen, with amateur bakers, butchers, sushi chefs and wok enthusiasts all cooking up a storm from home.

Naturally, some entrepreneurial minded folk have started to sell their wares, keen for recognition beyond the wife, kids and dog for their home cooked creations.

At the same time, those already in the restaurant and catering industry have had to adapt, too, and some have started operating delivery businesses from their home kitchen, keen to keep their knives sharp and palettes refined for when restaurants are allowed to reopen later this year.  

Whether you’re intending to double down on your midweek bolognese and sell the extra for profit, you’ve been baking cupcakes which have gained a cult following on Instagram, or you’re a bored professional chef chomping at the bit, there are a few things to know before you start selling your food from home safely and effectively.

With that in mind, here are 6 tips on how to start a food business from your home kitchen. 

HERE TO HELP CAMPAIGN 

There are a ton of practical requirements you’ll need to meet if you’re starting a food business from home, from registering as a food business and as self employed, to getting permission from your mortgage provider or landlord, and even asking the local council to assess whether you’re meeting all health, safety and hygiene requirements.  

To make things easier, as part of their Here to Help Campaign, the Government are offering support and guidance to food business adapting during COVID, including advice on all of the practical requirements and much more, particularly on the food safety side of things.

Before any consultation with professionals in the field or health inspectors, ask yourself a few basic questions: ”what certification and formal training do I need regarding food hygiene?”, ”how can I make sure my products are free from contamination?”, ”are there food safe gloves that are deemed to be industry standard?”, ”how do health and safety protocols differ in a home kitchen to a professional one?”, and and “what coverage should my food liability insurance provide to ensure I’m fully protected?” are just a few you should be considering.

Head to the Government’s website for more information on guidance for starting a food business from home.  

HONE YOUR IDEA 

There’s a lot of competition out there. In fact, every home kitchen in every house across the country has the potential to be your competitor. As such, your proposition needs to be unique, one-of-a-kind and something which, ideally, restaurants in your locale can’t provide.

So, consider your dishes and how they might fill a hungry hole in your community. Family recipes passed down from generation to generation, a cuisine which the restaurants in your city don’t cover, or a super-indulgent take on a traditional, ‘comfort food’ dish are all concepts which work particularly well from the home kitchen setting. 

Don’t simply offer some half-rate pasta or a burger which, frankly, isn’t as good as your local Honest. Instead, do something unique and celebratory of ‘home’.

MAKE IT EASY TO ORDER 

Online ordering systems are an integral part of any takeaway food business, and without them, you might as well be totting up your orders on an abacus and hoping a carrier pigeon will deliver them safely across town.

Should you be starting out from scratch with your from-home food business, the guys at Flex Catering, who offer catering software for UK caterers, tell us that newcomers to the industry should make their proposition as simple-to-order as possible, ideally allowing customers ‘’One Page Checkout (which) provides the best user experience where customers can place their orders quickly and with the fewest possible steps’’. 

In such a crowded marketplace, this simplicity of transaction could be the difference between customers preferring you or choosing your competitors.

Using catering software doesn’t only help with the ordering process, however. In fact, upgrading your home catering business to cloud-based catering software will not only simplify the customer experience, but also make managing your business from home much more straightforward, too.

SOCIAL MEDIA SMARTS 

Social Media – it’s one of the most influential and important things to get right for any business. If you don’t bother capitalising on the power of social media, then you may as well shut up your online food business right now. This is particularly pertinent for those running their food business from home, where the budget for a full on marketing campaign probably isn’t there.

That doesn’t mean you can’t engage with your niche audience directly and personally. Quite the opposite, in fact; use social media smartly and you’re more likely to see uptake on your products. 

If you’re selling hot sauce, for example, then jump on spice specific hashtags, like #habanero, #chilli and #sriracha.  Should you be peddling phad thai, #Thaifood is the bare minimum you should be tagging. 

To generate a bit of a buzz in a particularly testing time, some takeaway places have been running competitions over social media which are great for engaging with potential diners. You might even achieve the holy grail, of customer loyalty and repeat purchases. If you’re keen to do just that, then you could do worse than checking out our article on 5 of the best online marketing tools to capture the attention of new customers here. 

Instagram has become a notorious focal point for foodies taking the perfect snap before tucking in. Some of the most popular hashtags include #foodporn, which features in 179.9 million pictures, and #foodgasm which has been tagged 40.7 million times to date. Which brings us to our next point… 

PROFESSIONAL FOOD PHOTOS

Visual marketing is certainly where the consumer’s attention is most succinctly caught these days, and its importance is growing with each passing year. 

Nowhere is this truer than in the food industry. People eat with their eyes first, and by taking the time to create some memorable photos and learning the basics of food photography, you could make the difference between your business rising or sinking.

While, of course, you can take decent photos on your smartphone, it’s worth hiring a food photographer to really capture your food at it’s best if you’re keen to make a go of this thing. And that’s why you’re here, right? The photos that you share on your website and via social media will be essential in generating and growing your business, so take appropriate care of this side of the project. Because, let’s be honest, who ever ordered from a place without scrutinising pictures of the food first?

VEGAN TAKEOVER 

More and more people are changing their dietary preferences, and the rise of veganism has been an unprecedented trend in the food industry in recent years.

A survey found that the number of vegans in the UK had reached 3.5 million in 2018, which is representative of the soar in consciousness towards the ethical concerns and environmental impacts of livestock farming. It’s up to you to react to these changing demands, and if you’re keen to conquer an increasingly prominent corner of the market, it’s essential you have a vegan offering on your menu.  

THE BOTTOM LINE

Catering is, even at the best of times, a challenging and demanding job. And these are most certainly not the best of times. Going forward, the industry is only set to get more complex as the post-COVID rules are readjusted and refined, but with a little endeavour and a lot of great cooking, you could make a success of your home food business. Good luck! 

DRINKING TOO MUCH IN LOCKDOWN? HERE’S HOW TO DRINK MORE RESPONSIBLY

Editorial Team
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DRINKING TOO MUCH IN LOCKDOWN? HERE’S HOW TO DRINK MORE RESPONSIBLY

Qurantitini, coronaholic, laptop-lagers…it seems like a whole new drinking vernacular has emerged courtesy of the Pandemic, and sometimes, it can be hard to keep up. Even harder, for so many during this difficult period, has been keeping various vices in check. Indeed, research from Alcohol Change UK revealed that 21% of us were drinking more during the first pandemic, with many doing so dangerously.  

During the first lockdown, it might have been fun – we tried our hand at making those qurantinis, did wine tasting nights on Zoom and house-partied like it was 1999. 

Then, the hangover kicked in. This lockdown around, things feel like they’ve taken a turn, with many Brits concerned about their drinking and sadly, alcohol-related deaths reaching a record high in the UK at the end of last year.

If you’re keen to keep things under control and concerned that you’re drinking too much in lockdown, then read on; here’s how to drink more responsibly.

GET HELP 

First things first, although the word ‘coronaholic’ has been thrown around a lot, there’s a danger that the frivolousness of the term might be masking something more serious. If you are worried about how much alcohol you’re drinking, there’s no shame in seeking the help of professionals if other methods of giving up have so far failed you. 

With a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Transactional Analysis, Relational Framework Therapy, medication and counselling from such services, a fresh start is possible. You can visit their site to learn more. 

DON’T KEEP BOOZE IN THE HOUSE

It may sound obvious, but by not keeping booze in the house, you’ll be much less likely to compulsively, impulsively reach for a bottle at the end of the day. The majority of us are taking fewer trips to the supermarket lately, due to government guidance, and, as such, are loading up our trolley with more supplies than usual, including alcohol.  

Instead, load your trolly up with other, equally interesting beverages, which succinctly brings us to our next point… 

EXPLORE NON & LOW- ALCOHOLIC DRINKS 

Let’s face it, tap water is a bit boring. And if there’s one thing we’ve learnt, boredom often leads to drinking. Luckily, there are so many drinks that can replace your evening glass of wine which feel like just as much of a treat. 

While of course green tea, kombucha and turmeric lattes are all great, many drinkers have found solace in the hugely improved non and low alcohol drinks market, too. This is no more succinctly realised than with Seedlip Spice, a 0% spirit made in the same way as gin, with a serious load of botanicals and packing a similar punch flavour wise, but not inducing that maudlin drunkenness we’re so prone to. The finish is complex with notes of clove and cardamom and it scratches a certain itch, that’s for sure. 

We’re also fans of Rochester Ginger Drink, a non-alcoholic ginger beer with one hell of a kick, offering a fiery smack on the lips and a lingering on the tongue that other non-alcoholic drinks so often lack. For enthusiastic beer drinkers, Nanny State from Brewdog, containing just 0.5% alcohol, is full of flavor, grapefruit bitterness and blessed with a pleasing treacle finish. 

Finding a replacement for alcohol is one positive lifestyle change that you can make. However, there are plenty of other things you can do, too…

KEEP BUSY & FOCUS ON POSITIVE LIFESTYLE CHANGES  

To resist the urge to drink, you need to fill your time with something else. For so many, it seems like the temptation to drink strikes most directly when we’re feeling listless and uninspired. A gloomy day outside with little on the agenda often leads to us filling up a glass just to fill in some hours. Many former drinkers who gave up successfully suggest that it’s crucial to keep busy and fill up your time, particularly in the evenings. Think home workouts, learning a new language, watching a new TV series…anything wholesome to keep the wolf from the door. 

Also, focus on positive lifestyle changes like exercising, meditating and eating well, all of which will help you shape your mindset into a holistically healthier one. Slowly but surely, those drinks and hangovers will seem less appealing. 

DRINK ONE DAY A WEEK OR JUST ON WEEKENDS 

For many, pouring a glass of wine has become a way to mark the transition from day to evening. However, instead of punctuating every evening by having a drink, why not limit it to a Friday night to mark the weekend, instead? 

If you know you’re going to drink over the weekend, then measure your units – this way you can make sure you’re sticking to the recommended amount. It’s important to understand what a ‘standard’ measurement is when it comes to your favourite tipple and it can be a worthwhile investment to buy a good measure for when you make drinks at home. Doing so can help you keep better track of your drinking and limit any excesses.

DRINK BETTER 

If you’re keen to cut down, not out, then the idea of ‘drinking better’ has gained traction in recent years. Rather than witter on, we’ll redirect you instead to our tips on how to drink less wine but enjoy drinking it more. 

UNDERSTAND THAT YOU’RE NOT ALONE

You’re not alone. As environmental psychologist Lee Chambers tells Glamour, ‘’Society and humans in general equate alcohol to relaxation,” he explains, “and in the stress and anxiety of the current crisis, drinking helps block these feelings, both cognitively and chemically, particularly masking our feelings of isolation as social connection is diminished when we can’t leave the house.” 

As such, it’s vital to stay in touch with family and friends, to find that sense of belonging somewhere away from the bottle. Schedule daily calls, send voice notes, even exchange memes! Anything which keeps those touchpoints ticking is perfect.

8 UNIQUE IDEAS FOR SOCIALISING IN YOUR GARDEN

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8 UNIQUE IDEAS FOR SOCIALISING IN YOUR GARDEN

Ideal for having fun with loved ones when restrictions are eased.

This just in; the government’s latest ‘road map’ out of lockdown is due, and rumour has it that socialising with friends and family, safely and securely, is likely to be prioritised. In fact, according to various leaks, loved ones – whether that’s two households or a ‘rule of six’ situation will become clear in the coming days – will be allowed to meet in each other’s gardens at the end of March. We can’t wait.

With all necessary caveats about taking proper precautions, keeping your distance, and washing your hands and surfaces in place, here are 8 unique ideas for socialising in your garden, IDEAL for having fun with loved ones when restrictions are eased. 

HOTDOGS & CHAMPAGNE 

Sure you could just have a BBQ, but why not make it a little more special and unique? We’ve got all summer to have the usual burgers and beers, don’t you think? For now, this is a celebratory, unique occasion, welcoming friends or family over after months apart. As such, it’s imperative that you go that extra mile… 

We’re looking to a Vienna’s Würstelstände (that’s sausage stand) for inspiration on this one. Yep, if you haven’t considered the combination before, that’s champagne and sausages, and they pair just beautifully.  

Käsekrainer (cheese filled hot dogs affectionately referred to as ‘Kranky’) served with dark rye bread, gherkins and dollops of both mustard and ketchup are perhaps the most popular choice on the streets of Vienna, and translate beautifully to a crisp, spring evening in the UK. Currywurst is equally ubiquitous, or a more elegant frankfurter topped with crispy shallots and loads of mustard might just satisfy your desires?

A side of potato salad with plenty of mayonnaise is obligatory. Then, all you have to worry about is the champagne, although in all honesty, serving cava or prosecco is just as appropriate. 

Sounds like a fantastic evening to us!

HAVE A SHISHA NIGHT 

Bring the vibes of the famous Cairo bazaar Khan el-Khalili to your garden, complete with all the escapist vibes that come with it by hosting your very own shisha night. Traditionally, hookah lounges are spaces designed with comfort in mind, with well appointed, softly furnished seating and snacks to hand. 

Generally speaking, alcohol isn’t served. Instead, elaborate, delicious tea is the traditional drink of the hookah lounge, with mint and jasmine the most popular choices. Serve some up on arrival to get the party started.

Though the hookah pipe is usually shared communally, you’ll have to invest in a separate hookah for guests to avoid cross-contamination. Don’t worry, they’re surprisingly affordable; you can find a solid, durable pipe starting at around £50. Alternatively, you can buy disposable mouthpieces to ensure hygiene is respected.

The sweet aroma is the defining feature of any hookah lounge, and you can find fruity flavours like Al Fakher Shisha Flavour to really replicate that shisha bar experience. It’s common for fruit to be served alongside the pipe, to complement but not overwhelm these flavours. Avoid spicy and greasy foods at all costs, which will be jarring both flavourwise and texturally, against the delicate smoke.

When it comes to seating, create the rightt ambiance with low, comfy seating. Then, all you have to do is find an appropriate soundtrack; check out this awesome Spotify Hookah Lounge playlist for inspiration!

PIZZA IN A WOOD FIRED OVEN 

For foodies who love bringing friends and family together, then a wood fired oven in your garden is exactly what you need for that focal point which any great evening spent socialising outdoors needs. Yep, a pizza oven, whether it’s one you’ve built yourself or one of the many great ones currently on the market, makes a fun addition to your outdoor space and serves as a hub for entertaining, too

Though this bit of kit is perfect for throwing a pizza party, don’t let the al fresco cooking stop there; fish, meat, veggies and even some baked desserts all taste amazing in a wood fired oven!

For some top advice from the experts (at IDEAL), check out these beginner’s tips on making the best homemade pizza.

CREATE A HOME BEER GARDEN 

It looks like we might have to wait until May for pubs for reopen. So, why not bring the pub vibes into your backyard and create your own beer garden for welcoming friends and family over? 

To create the right atmosphere for your very own beer garden, it’s all about the props. Start by naming your garden pub and creating some signage. Next, dig out your Christmas lights and string up them around the garden; nothing beats that twinkle, right? Otherwise, you’re just kinda huddled round, drinking in the dark…and where’s the fun in that? 

Don’t have pint glasses? Firstly, we commend you for having not stolen them from your local. But not having pint glasses at home shouldn’t stop you from hosting your own beer garden; simply serve your drinks in jam jars instead, like a trendy East London hangout would. 

And finally, the most important part of all; the beer. There are several excellent beer keg dispensers currently on the market, helping you create that pulled pint feeling from home. At the budget end of the spectrum, the Pinter At Home costs just £75, whilst the Fizzics DraftPour clocks in at £149. Or, if you’re looking to spend a little more, then the Philips Perfect Draft is a smart investment, costing £399 and being compatible with over 40 different beers.

FIREPIT, STARGAZING & MARSHMALLOWS 

There’s just something about gathering around a fire, staring into it enigmatically and contemplating life’s bigger questions. To entice friends over to do the same, and share in some existential soul searching, why not invest (or build your own) firepit? 

Ideal for backyard entertaining, a firepit can take the look of your outdoor space up a notch and will instantly transform your space into an all-year-rounder. Because, let’s face it, the final days of March aren’t exactly warm, are they?

When it comes to food, there’s plenty of things you and your guests can cook on a stick. Think frankfurters, kebabs, shrimp, corn on the cob and even fresh bread, for starters. For pudding, roasted pineapples are gorgeous, and don’t forget the marshmallows! 

And once the fun around the fire is done, why not indulge in a spot of stargazing to finish the night in style? Consider setting up a telescope next to your fire pit – you never know, you may just find the answer to those existential questions you’ve been pondering. 

TAP INTO TAPAS 

We’re looking south to our Spanish amigos for inspiration here. Tapas is one of the most convivial food experiences in the world and is ideal for the outdoor setting. It’s all about the shared experience here, and what livelier, more interactive and exciting eating experience is there than tapas? The most iconic tapas dishes can, more often than not, be made in advance; ideal for hosts who want to enjoy their party rather than spend all evening at the stoves.

Pair your tapas with some Spanish Cava and bring out the Sangria later on, if you’re keen to keep the party going. When creating a soiree around these shareable small plates (separate plates for each household or guest, of course) why not go the extra mile and invest in a couple of oak barrels and bar stools, which really create the right ambience. Don’t forget the music – we think a playlist of Spanish guitar is ideal!

THROW A PINTXOS PARTY 

If creating lots of tapas dishes seems like a lot of work, then look to another cornerstone of Spanish culture from the Basque country for inspiration. 

Coming from the Spanish verb ‘pinchar’ which means ‘to pierce’, pintxos come with a cocktail stick skewering delicious toppings like Spanish tortilla, stuffed olives, or yellow fin tuna and anchovy, with a slice of bread beneath. Cava is obligatory, here, and helps things along beautifully.

These bite-size punches of flavour can be created beforehand, which means less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests in the garden. Please note that a ham and pineapple hedgehog is not pintxo; just sayin’.

OUTDOOR CINEMA 

If you’re craving inspiration for your next gathering, then an outdoor cinema could be just the ticket. Rest assured; it’s actually surprisingly easy to create your very own cinematic experience outdoors. 

First, you’ll need a projector. There are tons of affordable ones out there; the APEMAN Portable Mini Projector 4500 at £79.99 on Amazon is often touted as one of the best budget projectors you can buy on a budget, and will give you a decent picture outdoors. For a screen, a white bed sheet pegged on the washing line with something to weigh it down to the ground will suffice; that DIY aesthetic is very on trend, don’t you think?

And when it comes to snacks, while bags of popcorn are, of course, fine, we all know that popcorn tastes best when it’s just been freshly popped. Enter the domestic Popcorn Machine; yours for just £15.

THE BOTTOM LINE

If the latest news is to be believed, you have a month to prepare for a party which takes the best elements of public socialising that we’ve all missed, and brings them into the domestic space. All it takes is a little time and creativity, and, of course, compliance with the latest rules, and you can enjoy a wonderful time with family and friends once again!

If you’re playing the long game, then check out our article on how to host the ultimate summer soiree.

How To Improve Your Poker Game Today

Editorial Team
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How To Improve Your Poker Game Today

Although it might not be one of the most complicated games to play, poker is widely regarded as one of the most challenging. With some of the biggest and best liars, tricksters and card players throughout the world taking to poker as their favorite go-to – it’s not exactly hard to see why the game can be so difficult, especially when on the world stage. 

But even the Daniel Negreanus, Phil Hellmuths and Doyle Brunsons of this world had to start out somewhere, and by using the same tactics that they and other pros used to get ahead of the rest, you too could improve your game. So, if you’re looking to give your game a lift, or simply get some practice in, then read on; here’s how to improve your poker game today.

Avoid Being The First Player To Limp 

Limping (calling the big blind preflop) is one of the biggest faults that no players commit when entering a pot. By calling the big blind pre-flop, players won’t be able to win the bot before the flop (like they would be able to if they had raised) and give the behind players enticing pot odds, so you’ll be facing more players in the pot. More players mean a lower chance of winning and that’s not what we want. So, avoid limping first, as you don’t win by being a passenger. 

Fast-Play Your Strong Hands

One of the biggest and most popular tells in poker is the long pause of consideration for the raise when a player has a good hand. This is one of the most basic tells in the game that can be used to identify strong hands and create bluffs against strong players, so it pays to avoid the long delays when you’re onto a winning hand. Keep it fast and aggressive, as that’s where the money will be. 

Play Fewer Hands

Perhaps the most important advice of all, and something all amateur poker players, whether at a game night with friends or sitting at a Vegas table for the first time, can benefit from, is to pay careful consideration to the number of hands that you’re playing. 

When a player is brand-new to the game, they’ll often play through a high percentage of hands, just to get a little seat time in the game. Although it’s not exactly going to ruin your game off the bat, it’s not going to win you any either. In short, tight and aggressive wins the game, so it might be time to start folding that 4-8 focus on playing only the top poker hands.

Fold When You’re Uncertain 

One of the biggest differences between a bad player and a good player? A good player can throw away a good hand when they think they’re beat. So, if you think that you’re beat but feel like you’re too far gone, it’s important to remember that there’s nothing stopping you from folding and saving the rest of your bankroll. Sometimes a little damage limitation can go a long way.

Study The Tells & Target Them

Want to play the people rather than the cards? You’re going to need to study the main poker tells and get to grips with identifying them. There’s plenty to take into account, whether you’re playing online or in person, and it takes a good player to know them all, as they will differ from person to person significantly. That said, some tells are universal, and shared by many players, so it’s always good to know what you’re looking for. 

Go For The Kill When Players Show Weakness

Noticing a player that you’re seeing on-tilt? Now’s your time to strike. When there’s someone around the table in a off-kilter mood with erratic betting patterns, it might be time to play on the front foot. Whilst a fully blown psychological assessment is neither possible or ethical, it pays to recognise tilt in both other players and yourself. 

Focus On Solid Poker In Tournaments

When playing in a poker tournament, it can be too easy to adopt a survival mentality, but in the end, it’s good poker that wins out. There’s a time and a place for stack preservation, but when you’re in the early stages of a poker tournament, that isn’t it. Instead of playing defensively and “surviving”, it’s best to adopt an aggressive style and focus on solid poker. Because let’s face it, that’s how hands are won. 

Read: 10 cheap things to do in Las Vegas

Be Realistic About Your Strengths

If you’re looking to play poker and win, you’re going to need to play against those that aren’t quite as good as yourself. If you can’t spot the poor player within the first half-hour at the table, it might be time to look in the mirror. You should always opt for tables with players that aren’t quite as good as you, that way you can make a little profit. 

Get A Good Night’s Sleep 

Something often overlooked in the game of poker are the physical and mental factors surrounding the game. At the end of the day, poker isn’t just a game of cards, it’s much more demanding, with both a physical and mental strain put on the players in the room. If you’re playing a high-stakes game, tournament, or just want to get the best out of yourself – it’s best to get a good night’s sleep and be in a sharp, sober frame of mind when taking a seat at the table.

By making sure that you’re the best you can be physically and mentally, you give yourself the best chance of optimal performance. Check out our 5 IDEAL steps to the perfect bedtime routine over here for some great tips on setting yourself up for a night of Zzzeds.

Only Play When You’re In The Mood To 

Last but not least, when playing poker, you should only ever play when you’re in the mood to. If you’re not really into the game, keep getting distracted, playing on autopilot or just don’t want to be in the room, then head home. It’s better to not play at all than to play in a bad mood, as that’s when tilt takes over.

We’ll end this one by reminding you to always gamble responsibly, ideally playing just for fun and without real money or genuine deposits. 

5 UNIQUE GIFT IDEAS FOR AN ANIMAL LOVER

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5 UNIQUE GIFT IDEAS FOR AN ANIMAL LOVER

Ideal for your creature-crazy mate.

Hey, here’s the good news; an animal lover is perhaps one of the easiest people to buy for. 

Because for those who feel a kindred connection to each and every species who roams (swims and flies) the planet, this love for animals is all consuming, and something of a calling card, if you will. As such, choosing a gift couldn’t be easier.

That said, if you do have an animal obsessed loved one, they will have likely had their fair fill of animal-themed trinkets, posters, books and souvenirs. As such, buying a gift which they haven’t seen before can be tricky. We’re here to help with that; here are 5 unique gift ideas for an animal lover, IDEAL for your creature-crazy mate.

A BESPOKE PORTRAIT OR CALENDAR 

Sure, your animal obsessed loved one has got the panda posters. They proudly display their snake anatomy diagrams on their bedroom wall. They’ve framed their favourite cartoon depiction of a horse on the wall (BoJack, if you’re asking) and they’re never taking it down.

But how about a custom painted portrait of their favourite animal? We bet they don’t own one of those! Most animal lovers would appreciate a portrait of their best canine or feline friend to hang proudly on their wall, and commissioning a painting would make a truly unique gift. 

To make it really special, you can go high end and enlist a reputable artist to do the deed. We’re particularly enamoured with artist Andrew Walworth’s work. He also paints cats, dogs, or whatever animal your friend adores. 

SOMETHING CUTE 

These days, you can buy anything with an animal on it (not an actual animal, PETA might have something to say about that) and there are hundreds of appropriate gifts for people who love cats, chihuahuas, dogs, dolphins and nearly every animal under the sun. We suggest simply typing the specific animal your friend likes and seeing what Google throws back at you.

Currently, we’re big fans of playful and quirky animal themed lamps. These statement lamps are everywhere at the moment, and are, rather implausibly, a hot design trend of late. Wayfair have a particularly good collection and stock lamps from lots of different outlets – check their collection of World Menagerie lamps which are particularly colourful and super cute. Even Argos are getting in on the act, and have several unique and unusual animal lamps in their online catalogue.

For something a little more old school, animal candle and tea light holders are also having a moment, and are a lovely addition to the home. You could always get your arts and crafts on and make them something cute too. Indeed, using your crafting ability to make personalised gifts is a fantastic way to show someone special that you care. 

SPONSOR OR ADOPT AN (INSERT ANIMAL HERE) 

Considering we’ve already established that your pet loving friend has all the animal themed items they’ll ever need, why not instead give the gift of compassion, without your loved one having to find room in their house for another present?

A great idea for dog lovers is a dog sponsoring gift. This a great way to help an abandoned dog get the support and home they need. You’ll receive photos, stickers, magnets, and regular updates on your pup at Xmas, Valentine’s, and various other dates throughout the year.  

Adopting an animal from the WWF is another fantastic gift option. You can help your animal-mad mate protect precious habitats around the world and the species which rely on them, ensuring a safer future for various animals for years to come. See a full list of animals available for adoption here. 

A CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE 

Looking to splash out? How generous, would you like to be our friend?

But in all seriousness, if you’re eager to spoil an animal-mad loved one in a lavish way, then have you considered booking a holiday for them to go and volunteer on a conservation project in a location far flung? 

Zimbabwe, for instance, has several conservation programs, as well as wildlife orphanages and even dedicated lion rehabilitation projects, all looking for volunteers. Or, a little closer to home, there are opportunities to help dolphin tracking in Slovenia, or even conservationist work here in the UK, helping the National Trust, RSPCA, and RSPCB complete their invaluable work. Organising such an adventure for your loved one would be an amazing, totally unique gift, don’t you think?

SOMETHING TO READ 

Google ‘what books animal lovers should read’  and there will be thousands of lists. Unsurprisingly, most include classics like Watership Down by Richard Adams, Animal Farm by George Orwell, Of Wolves and Men by Barry Lopez, and, of course, Black Beauty by Anna Sewell.

But we assume any self respecting animal lover has probably read these. If not, you have your present right there. Just sneak a look at their bookshelf the next time you’re visiting (or, zoom in on Zoom) and see what they’re missing.

Alternatively, if you’re thinking of some anthropomorphic literature, first take inspiration from the movies. We’ve all seen the film Marley & Me, about the badly behaved, loveable lab, but most haven’t read the book by John Grogan. Perhaps this might be a welcome introduction to one of the most beloved animal characters in fiction?

Running with a theme, while most animal lovers have seen the cartoon version of White Fang, fewer have perhaps read the book by Jack London published in 1906. While we’re on Jack London, his book the Call of the Wild has just been made into a movie starring Harrison Ford, and is a glorious celebration of the unbreakable bond shared between dog and owner.

For more fact, less fiction, Coyote at the Kitchen Door written by biologist and conservationist Stephen DeStefano sheds light on the less-than-symbiotic relationship shared between civilisation and wilderness. 

Or, Some We Love, Some We Hate, Some We Eat by Hal Herzog looks at our complicated relationship with animals, and is most certainly an entertaining, enlightening read.  

For some easy reading, try the gorgeously illustrated animal encyclopedia An Anthology of Intriguing Animal by Ben Hoare. And for something on the more expansive side, The Diversity of Life by Pulitzer Prize-winning scientist Edward O. Wilson is just as pertinent now as it was when it was published in 1992.

However, if playing detective and finding out what books your friend has or hasn’t read is a little too trying during lockdown, might we suggest a subscription to an animal focused magazine? The National Geographic or BBC Wildlife Magazine are both brilliant monthly print magazines with tons of fascinating facts and gorgeous photography, too. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Though shopping for a creature-crazy companion can at times be tough, we hope you’ve found some inspiration in the above suggestions. Good luck!

Looking for more gift ideas? Check out our article on 8 IDEAL gift ideas for your travel obsessed friend and 8 environmentally friendly gift ideas, ideal for the eco-conscious loved one in your life

6 IDEAL TIPS FOR LONG MOTORBIKE RIDES IN HOT WEATHER IN THE UK

Editorial Team
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6 IDEAL TIPS FOR LONG MOTORBIKE RIDES IN HOT WEATHER IN THE UK

Did you feel it too? That just perceptible uptick in temperature surely means that good things are around the corner. 

We’re sure you’ve noticed the sun still shining at 6, right? And with it, can we assume you felt a little optimism alongside?

And the smell…is that the scent of daffodils in the air? Yep, Spring is coming and, without wishing to skip a whole season, that means Summer isn’t that far away either.

Though we wouldn’t want to second guess a government who’ve done more U-turns than a motorbike rider without satnav, it does look like some form of staycation may be permitted once the weather warms up.

And how we’re longing for that feeling of the open road that a great motorbike ride brings. And the longer, the better we say! In the UK, the longest, most iconic motorbike route is, of course, John O’Groats to Land’s End. From the tip of Scotland to the most westerly point of Cornwall, the whole thing covers 815 miles and takes around 15 hours, depending on traffic. 

After such a long time spent indoors and stationary, how we’d love to be revving up for such a sprawling ride! But even if you’re tackling something more manageable, and without wishing to burst the tyre on your sense of adventure before you’ve even set off, there are some precautions you need to take if you’re riding in the summer months. With that in mind, here are 6 IDEAL tips for long motorbike rides in hot weather in the UK.

STAY HYDRATED

Staying hydrated is one of the most important things to remember when you’re out riding. There are going to be some long stretches spent under the sun, and often spent under thick protective clothing, too. Distracted by the thrill of the open road, it can be all too easy to forget to drink water.

The hotter it is, the more fluids your body needs to function, and as any rider will attest, it can get super sweaty under your leathers. That’s a lot of water lost, accordingly, and it’ll need replenishing. If you’re not careful, you can suffer from dehydration, and this presents serious risks. According to the experts at News Medical, ‘’Studies have shown that cognitive function declines at mild water loss of around 2% body water loss…these include poorer concentration, increased reaction times, short-term memory issues, and negative mood changes’’.

And it’s that poorer concentration and increased reaction times which should be of particular concern to riders, as such changes could raise the likelihood of an accident.

It’s best to be alert to the symptoms of dehydration; feeling dizzy and lightheaded, general fatigue and having a dry mouth, lips, and even dry eyes, which can impair your vision are some key signs. 

Make sure that you stay safe and drink plenty of water. There are special rider’s backpacks you can buy, such as a CamelBak, which make drinking water while you ride easy. You should also avoid setting off on a long ride after a longer night on the beers; we all know how dehydrating that can be.

TIME YOUR RIDE

To avoid a whole day of sun exposure, it’s crucial that you factor in the time of the day that you travel. Doing so can help you avoid riding at peak sun exposure.  

Having the sun glaring down on you from above, especially with all your gear and no shade, can lead you to getting hot and dehydrated, which, as we’ve established, can be dangerous.

Riding when the sun’s at its highest can also present problems with visibility. This is due to the glare you’ll experience when facing the sun or with it in your mirrors. To compensate for that glare, having the right helmet helps mitigate visibility issues. To be legal, your visor must, according to the British Motorcycle Federation, ‘’conform to BS 4110 – which ensures a level of scratch resistance and permits up to 50% light transmittance. Any other visors are illegal, but sunglasses, tear-offs and inner wrap-arounds are all permitted’’. 

Do be aware that sunglasses are discouraged, though not illegal, in the Highway Code. 

At the height of summer (June, July and August) and between 11am and 3pm, the sun will be particularly strong and the glare from the road sometimes blinding. Instead, try to complete the majority of your ride during cooler, more softly lit hours. 

DRESS APPROPRIATELY

In hotter climates and during hotter times of the day or even year, one way that you can offset the heat is by dressing accordingly. 

Plan for the day and know what the average temperature is going to feel like. This way, you can choose the number of layers you wear.

Though you might think the leather biker jacket and matching trousers is obligatory, you actually have several options for protective clothing which conform to UK law. According to the Highway Code, you must wear a protective helmet, but after that, the law gets a little murky. Generally speaking, however, any insurance claim will be invalidated if you weren’t wearing…

  • Motorcycle boots
  • Textile, heavy denim or leather trousers
  • A textile, heavy denim or leather jacket
  • Motorcycle gloves
  • A visor on your helmet or goggles

Though this somewhat restricts your ability to dress cool, you can opt for protective clothing which is breathable, perhaps looking for clothes made out of a material with sweat-wicking capabilities. You can find various leather jackets and trousers in a perforated material which allows for a decent amount of breathability, too. 

Another aspect of your clothing that you want to consider is the colour; certain darker tones will attract more heat, whilst lighter colours will help you keep cooler, as well as alerting others on the road to your presence at the earliest opportunity. 

REMEMBERING SAFETY TRAINING AND PRACTICES

It is important that you have knowledge of how to safely navigate a situation where you feel uneasy riding, particularly in the trying conditions of summer, when somewhat surprisingly, the majority of accidents in the UK occur.

All your bike training will come into play in any event that you start feeling dizzy or lightheaded, or the starkness of the sun causes visibility issues. Should you be keen to brush up on your skills and road safety knowledge, courses and material from MTS rider training will provide information in regards to safety which could be invaluable.

Take a break if you need to, resting in order to get your body to cool down, and look for places to eat and drink if you need to refuel. Ignoring your body’s warning signs shouldn’t be an option.

RIDE IN GROUPS

One way to ensure that you’re safe while riding in hot weather is to ride with others, in convoy, or to put it more glamorously, in your very own biker gang.  

Whether you are on a road trip in a group or just want to have a friend along for a casual cruise, riding with a companion will help mitigate any trouble that you run into. You will be able to look out for each other, offering reminders to stay hydrated as well as checking on the well-being of your partner. 

In the event that you start feeling sick because of the heat, your riding companions can assist you, providing you with shade and water, or in more drastic circumstances, even call emergency response personnel to the scene and provide you with assistance. Riding in a group or with at least one other person ensures that responsibility and safety are prioritised.

THE BOTTOM LINE

It can be easy to get lost on the road, figuratively and literally, when the freedom of two wheels and some serious speeds revs up in your soul. We hope you enjoy your motorbike ride in summer with safety, as well as that adventurous spirit, in mind.

5 WAYS TO DRESS A WHITE LIVING ROOM

Editorial Team
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5 WAYS TO DRESS A WHITE LIVING ROOM

Ideal for creating a calming and tranquil space this spring. 

The past year has been one of gloom and doom. If you haven’t spent the start of 2021 decorating your home to lift the spirits and beckon in the positive vibes, then might we suggest you start?

Indeed, with spring knocking at the door and summer just around the corner (hey, we’re trying to be optimistic here) now is the perfect time to give your living room a refresh. And what could be more refreshing than styling your living room all in white?

Some people believe that white interiors equate to boring or the much feared ‘minimalist’. However, we’re here to hit that misconception on the head. For us, a well-appointed white room is akin to a little slice of heaven in an otherwise crazy world; calm, considered and composed, the beauty of a white interior lies in its simplicity, giving it an airy sense of grandeur we just love to luxuriate in. 

If you’re the same, then you’ve come to the right place; here are 5 ways to dress a white living room, IDEAL for creating a calming and tranquil space this spring.

WHITE & WOOD CANVAS

If you’re looking to go the full hog when it comes to decorating your living room, then let’s talk walls and floor, the canvas, if you will, for your white room.  

Painting your room white will make it feel open, spacious and clean. There are lots of variations of white paint which can vastly change the look of your room (honestly), from cream to chalk, jasmine and even ivory bone – it can get pretty confusing.  

Considering it’s the plainest of colours, it’s also a risky business to get right; choose too white and your room will end up looking sterile and cold. If you don’t want to feel like you’re living in a hospital corridor and instead are eager to evoke a relaxing ambience, the experts at Dulux recommend adding a little bit of calm green, such as sage, into your white palette.

If you want to break up the white, then consider shiplap walls to add visual interest to your living room. This wall type can add a special sense of style and texture while perfectly blending with the rest of your white interior. Or, create a feature shiplap interior wall to serve as a focal point in an otherwise monochrome space. A panelled white wall also adds visual intrigue and breaks up a plain white wall, too.

The wonderful thing about white walls is that they go with most floor types. Here at IDEAL, we’re fond of wooden flooring which can blend seamlessly into a whole range of home design styles. Dark wooden flooring can create an intimate feel to a room and, as a backdrop, upholstered white furniture really shines through against this floor type. A warm, honey-toned wood floor, perhaps a pale parquet, for instance, can look effortlessly stylish in a white room and be a design feature in its own right.  

When choosing your wooden flooring, be sure to consider the natural light of the room, too; if a room has lots of windows and natural light, you may need to don sunglasses to enter the room because of the glare of a lighter finish alongside those white walls. Proceed with caution.

A WIDE, WHITE STATEMENT SOFA 

A white sofa, we hear you gasp? You must be mad! Well, you’d be right, but not because of our choice in furniture colour.

In fact, there’s nothing quite like a crisp, clean looking white sofa, set against a monochrome backdrop. Here at IDEAL, we’re fans of a cloud sofa – they are literally like resting on a cloud (without the falling to earth bit), since the huge cushions contribute to the cloud like cosiness of the piece.

Ok, we’re going to be completely honest with you, a white couch isn’t for everyone. Type ‘White sofa’ into Google and questions like ‘Is it a bad idea to get a white couch?’, ‘How do you get white furniture white again?’  and ‘is white furniture a good idea?’ will appear. There are stories all over the internet about the ugly truth of owning a white couch. But we say; don’t fear the dirt – that’s what slipcovers and bleach is for. Perhaps just lay off the turmeric lattes when you’re sitting on yours.

A STATEMENT ARMCHAIR 

Decided against a white sofa? We understand. Instead, consider a white statement armchair positioned in a prominent part of the room – a power chair,  as we like to call it – instead. 

The problem when it comes to choosing a statement chair is the sheer choice of styles. Well, ask any furniture aficionado to name a piece that they consider to be iconic, and we wouldn’t be surprised if a classic wingback chair was the first item to leave their lips.  

It’s easy to see why; wingback chairs have a distinctive and elegant look and vast appeal, and they are undoubtedly comfortable as well. However, if you’re looking for something a little more modern and stylish, consider a more contemporary accent chair.  

Occasionally an all-white decor may sometimes seem too monochrome, so consider a statement armchair which is a combination of white and wooden elements.  

A MINIMALISTIC SIDEBOARD 

Since white represents purity, it is only right to keep your living room as decluttered and clean as possible. Enter the sideboard. 

The storage potential of a sideboard is ideal for an all-white living room. There are many classic and contemporary designs to choose from to suit your unique tastes and to complement your existing decor, however, a good one should have an abundance of roomy drawers, adjustable shelves and ample cupboard space. 

You can keep knick-knacks, games, books, glassware (anything you like) out of sight allowing you to maintain a clean, crisp look in the room as a whole. We think a wooden credenza is ideal here – as we showcased earlier, white and wood is a winning combination. 

ADD LIFE WITH ACCESSORIES & PLANTS 

To avoid that stark, clinical aesthetic, you’re going to need accessories. Harnessing the power of diverse textures will help here. Soft furnishings, in particular, will add depth to your white living room; think intricate macrame wall hangings, soft woolen throws and knitted cushions. A heavy pile white rug will look gorgeous against a wooden floor, too. 

What’s more, accessories made from rattan work so well in a white room and can add a tropical vibe to your home; think woven mirror frames, floor lamps, lampshades and lanterns made from the naturally growing, wicker weaved vine. Or, if you’re keen to channel cold weather climates, instead, then how about going for a Scandinavain vibe with a sprinkle of boho chic thrown in for good measure? 

Ideal for creating a tranquil white space, the serenity that the green of houseplants brings to your home can be soothing and rejuvenating in equal measure in the relative drab of Britain and against that starker backdrop you’ve cultivated. Lovely stuff!

THE BOTTOM LINE

Quite the opposite of bland and boring, a white living room can be a breath of fresh air. Its calming, minimalist vibe can actually be inspiring, not to mention striking and soothing, all at once. 

An all-white living room is timeless choice for creating a calming backdrop to your every day life, and we could all do with a little bit of that right now. 

THE IDEAL APPS THAT DESIGNERS CAN USE TO GROW THEIR BUSINESS

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THE IDEAL APPS THAT DESIGNERS CAN USE TO GROW THEIR BUSINESS

‘’Alexa, what are the ingredients for a successful design start-up?’’

‘’I’m sorry, I don’t know that one’’.

‘’IDEAL, how about you, could you shed some light on the secrets to design start up success?’’

We’re glad you asked.

Let’s burst a few bubbles here. Starting a business in the field of design needs more than talent and skill, alone. Instead, it requires a fine balancing act to take place, and for you to juggle your creative impulses and budget constraints whilst satisfying a customer’s whims and wants and responding to the industry’s changing needs with dexterity.

Given up yet? If you haven’t, then we have some good news; since the design trade is at the cutting edge of technology and innovation, there are several platforms and apps which can help facilitate a smoother start in the industry. With that in mind, here are the IDEAL apps that designers can use to grow their business.

A PRIMARY COMMUNICATION APP 

As you’ve probably figured out by now, clear and effective communication is key to maximising your efficiency. More often than not, clients will ask for designs based on a generic idea and in a vague way, only to start making things clearer after you’ve submitted your work. 

To avoid a frustrating, time consuming back and forth, you’ll need a primary channel of communication through which you can reach a consensus with the client. Your main communication channel can be through emails, audio calls, video calls, or texting – but you have to specify a primary mode of communication and stick to it. 

The best forms of communication platform record all dialogue, exchanges and diagrams in a clear way, creating documentation and back ups along the way.

For clear, precise client communication, our favourite apps include: Chanty, MatterMost and Ryver.

A COLLABORATION APP

In the case of having a team working with you, you’ll need a collaboration app to organise your workflow efficiently and ensure you’re all on the same page. This application will be the main channel for communicating with your colleagues and within it; you’ll post regular updates, important announcements, meetings, and urgent changes. This app will act as the virtual workspace that keeps your team connected. 

For collaborative team communication and organisation, our favourite apps include: Slack, InVision and Glip.

A TASK MANAGEMENT APP

Having a task management app is important for all creative types, regardless of their line of work. Once you start taking on projects, keeping track of all the tasks you have to do can quickly become overwhelming – and let’s be honest, as designers, we can’t really count on our ability to remember every single detail asked of us. In the wise words of Kanye West, ‘’allow me to create’’.

To avoid making unnecessary mistakes or judgment errors, having a task management app (a glorified to-do list, essentially) helps you organise your work methodically, and is an incredibly useful tool where accountability and delegation is concerned.

For task management, our favourite apps include: Asana, Todoist and Trello. 

A PROJECT MANAGEMENT APP

Speaking of delegation…

If you’re working with a team, delegating tasks and explaining the details of each presents a dilemma without a good system in place. You want to deliver your message with clarity, but don’t want to appear patronising. In such cases, a project management app is ideal.

Instead of relying on spreadsheets, elaborate colour doing and endless documents, using a project management app will take care of all your tasks in one place. You’ll be able to upload assignments instantly while adding the criteria and description in each item, as well as the deadline. Once the task is done, the assignee can upload their work on the item and mark it as done. 

For clean, crisp and concise project management, some of favourite apps include: Base Camp, OmniPlan and Microsoft Project.

A CONTRACT SIGNING APP

Dealing with clients is never easy. Phew, you can say that again!

Dealing with clients is never easy. And one of the most tiresome tasks that comes with dealing with clients (happy now?) is the contract scrutinising and signing process. 

Agreeing on terms, stipulations, caveats and clauses can take a prohibitively long time, so anything that simplifies the process is hugely welcome. If you’re using Salesforce apps for managing your sales, then you’ll be glad to know that you can take care of your e-signature needs by adding a simple extension, allowing you to sign electronic documents and e-contracts easily without needing to print and rescan the document. 

Our favourite contract signing apps include: Cirrus Insight, DocuSign and RightSignature.

AN ACCOUNTING APP

Once you start taking on more clients, managing your accounting manually becomes difficult. Hey, it’s one of the perils of success, don’t you think? But as a designer, you should welcome the necessity to streamline your process, get rid of the paper, and move things into the virtual sphere. 

As the experts at Auditox Accountancy UK tell us, if you’re managing several clients and subcontracting certain processes simultaneously then you’ll need an accounting app to automate your processes.

Using this app, you’ll be able to easily create, send and chase invoices, track your finances, calculate your taxes, and pay your team members. 

Some of our preferred accounting apps include: QuickBooks, Xero and Zoho Books.

A FILE MANAGEMENT APP

Where do you usually store all your designs? Although saving them on your PC is good for security reasons, it’s not exactly practical. There will be a lot of times when you’ll need to access your files remotely, or you may even lose your data for one reason or another. Having a file management app that allows you to upload your work to the cloud is the best solution; it’s secure, practical, and allows for easy and instant sharing options. 

When your designs are so essential to your continued success, you come to feel quite precious about them. Best, then, to have them stored and backed up in a secure space.

Some of our favourite file management apps include: OneDrive for Business, DropBox Business and DocuWare.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Succeeding as a designer in today’s business world requires bags of creativity, sure, but success also relies on how you organise yourself and your work. Fortunately, there are a whole host of platforms who are only too ‘appy to help.

7 IDEAL BENEFITS OF A QUARTZ WORKTOP

Editorial Team
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7 IDEAL BENEFITS OF A QUARTZ WORKTOP

Replacing your kitchen worktops isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. Not only functional, they contribute hugely to the style and feel of the room, too. Being such an integral part of the room, it’s no wonder that so many struggle to make a decision when it comes to the perfect material, with the modern demands of the kitchen requiring durability and sophistication to make it a worthwhile investment.

Whilst granite is an enduring choice – both in longevity and popularity – quartz is fast becoming an equally smart option, and for good reason; it offers several benefits to the homeowner in terms of durability, cost and colour. If you’re wondering what the best kitchen worktop is, then you’ve come to the right place; here are 7 IDEAL benefits of a quartz worktop.

DURABILITY

Quartz is made from a mix of natural stone and resin, essentially fashioned from crushed quartz pigments (primarily for colour, but also for reinforcement) and resin. Due to this mix, the material is incredibly durable, and able to withstand knocks, bumps and scratches more so than other common materials, such as laminate or solid wood.

Yep, quartz will cope with the daily demands of an energetic household without breaking stride. Although, come to think of it, you wouldn’t want your kitchen worktop able to break or stride.

If you’re weighing up whether to choose granite or quartz, as most consumers are where kitchen worktops are concerned, be aware that granite is generally considered a little less durable. Granite is quarried from pure stone and then turned into slabs and polished for installation, and though its luxury appeal is undeniable, granite is perhaps not quite as durable as quartz.

A CHANCE FOR COLOUR CUSTIMISATION

Thanks to the fact that they’re a mix of natural stone and resin, quartz worktops can be customised to suit your own particular taste, in terms of colour, as well as the exact size and shape you’re looking for. This broader range of colours is one of the main reasons people choose quartz over granite, which boasts a much more narrow range of colour options, or wood, which rather limits you in terms of your decor.

ITS NON POROUS NATURE

If you’re a lover of turmeric, you’ll be happy to hear that quartz is virtually non-porous, which means that when deployed as a kitchen worktop, it doesn’t tend to stain. Should you spill something, you don’t need to worry about your countertops staining and becoming ruined in an instant.

Because of its nonporous nature, quartz is also scratch-resistant. If that wasn’t enough, Quartz is also heat resistant (that is unless you take a blowtorch to it) and can withstand the heat of pots and pans without any damage.

EASY MAINTENANCE

Quartz requires fairly minimal intervention in the cleaning stakes, meaning its a low maintenance choice for a material of such quality. Regarding every day use, it needs to be cleaned simply, with hot water and a mild detergent.

It has an advantage over granite in the maintenance stakes, too, since quartz doesn’t require resealing once a year. Because quartz isn’t porous and completely solid, there is no need to have your countertops resealed – therefore, in terms of maintenance, quartz is super convenient.

A HYGIENIC CHOICE

Again, thanks to that alchemistic meeting of stone and resin in quartz and the non-porous nature of the worktop, you’ll find quartz doesn’t allow bacteria to work its way into the surface. Simply wipe clean with a damp cloth and gentle cleaning agent to ensure it’s germ and bacteria free. This bacteria resistance and imperviousness to germs makes quartz a hygienic choice.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS

Since quartz is manufactured in a factory and doesn’t require the extensive mining processes of granite or the felling of trees which a wood worktop requires, it represents the more environmentally choice. What’s more, quartz uses materials which may otherwise be wasted, with quartz worktops 100% recyclable, meaning it has become the preferred worktop material for the eco-conscious in recent years.

VALUE FOR MONEY

Let’s be honest here, both quartz is one of the more expensive worktop materials you can use. That said, you get what you pay for. Indeed, while quartz may not be the cheapest option out there, it certainly isn’t the most expensive and considering it requires little to no maintenance and can help increase the value of your home, it generally represents decent value for money.

On average, a quartz countertop will cost between £50 and £100 per square foot. A medium sized quartz countertop, then, at 54 square feet, could cost you between £2,700 and £5,400. Though that may seem like a large outlay, the longevity of the surface (on average, 25 to 30 years), as well as its low maintenance, means that quartz does represent good value for money in the long run.

If you’re looking to get around the heavy price tag, quartz toppers, which simply fit on top of your existing worktop, are available.

THE BOTTOM LINE

If you’d like more information on quartz worktops or perhaps to talk with a professional supplier and installer of quartz worktops, we recommend contacting Total Tops today on 01787 844 663. Total Tops are one of the UK’s leading suppliers and offer a fantastic selection of quartz worktops, in a range of colours, all of which can be custom cut to your perfect size and installed professionally for a first-class finish.

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