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4 IDEAL RETIREMENT IDEAS FOR MAKING THE MOST OUT OF LATER LIFE

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL RETIREMENT IDEAS FOR MAKING THE MOST OUT OF LATER LIFE

We keep reading in the news that we must start saving for our retirement now, while we’re still young. Although it seems like a long way off, it’s actually a sensible idea – if sensible is your thing that is. Most us don’t want to start thinking about paying into a pension pot, but if you do, paying for your retirement will be a whole lot easier, especially if you want to live comfortably. According to the Money Advice Service “to have an income of £20,000 a year in retirement, you would need to put aside roughly £250 a month from the age of 25. Wait until you’re 35, and this figure goes up to a little more than £400 a month”. Scary stuff right.

So, you’re going to spent decades getting up early, going to work and saving for your retirement (that is, unless we end the capitalist society we live). But what do you do when you actually retire? Well luckily it doesn’t have to be full of cliched activities like small gardening projects, slow-paced hobbies such as knitting and watching old reruns of countdown on the telly. Indeed, nowadays the current retirement age of 66 isn’t all that old, especially since many of us can expect to see the other side of 90. As such, many of us still have an long later life ahead to be enjoyed. With this in mind here are 4 IDEAL retirement ideas for making the most out of later life.

EMBRACE YOUR PASSION

Have you always wanted to be an artist but you don’t have the guts to leave your 9-5 and give it a go. Or maybe you have a passion for cooking and have always dreamt of training as a chef. Or perhaps you’re longing to be your own boss and to see where an entrepreneurial idea might lead, but don’t have the finances behind you right now. Then do it when you retire. Embracing your passions is a marvellous thing to focus one’s attention on in later life and is a chance to give those long-repressed dreams an actual go. 

INVEST IN A HOLIDAY HOMES

While this one depends on that aforementioned pension pot, since you’ve been working all your life, isn’t it time to go on holiday – perhaps forever? If by the time your retire, you’re lucky enough to own your own home, but have always dreamt of living by the seaside or in the countryside, then why not sell up and follow that dream?  Many older people look at Lake District holiday lodges for sale in order to escape cities and towns to enjoy the tranquility and utter beauty offered by more secluded natural vistas. Holiday lodges, static homes and shared complexes in these destinations also benefit from a real sense of community, bringing together people of a certain generation into new groups of friends. Holiday homes aren’t necessarily going to break the bank either; they’re often offered on a shared basis so that you’re able to dip in and out of upkeep responsibilities.

WORLD TRAVEL

Everyone’s heard of the retired couple who remortgaged their home to up sticks and travel the world. And hopefully, we’ll be right behind them come retirement age. Indeed, after a lifetime of working, retirement should be the big payoff and what could be bigger or better than exploring the entire globe?

VOLUNTARY WORK

Hands up if you feel time poor right now? We feel you and we’re not the only ones. Half the population reckon they are time poor, with three quarters of Brits saying they are too stressed to have a good time and 40 per cent stating they spend most of their time working and juggling household chores. Unfortunately, this means that many younger people can be deterred from volunteering because they feel like the don’t have the time. While it’s important to volunteer at all ages, when you retire and have more time on your hands, the ability to volunteer and help others gets a little easier. Now we’re not telling you not to volunteer when you’re young, just that you can do more of it when you retire. 

5 IDEAL REASONS TO CHOOSE A HOLIDAY RENTAL HOME OVER A HOTEL

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL REASONS TO CHOOSE A HOLIDAY RENTAL HOME OVER A HOTEL

Here at IDEAL we’re often asked to recommend a good hotel. And although this may seem straight forward, it’s a question fraught with difficulty. Everyone’s different, with a diversity in taste, price point and idea of what or what isn’t ‘essential’. Some prefer quirky and unique boutique hotels, others a luxury five star hotel with all the amenities to boot. However, while we adore most hotels, especially those that have cloud-like beds and spa-like bathrooms, sometimes staying at a hotel can be the wrong choice, especially if you like to have your own space and a bit more freedom. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL reasons to choose a holiday rental home over a hotel.

SAVE ON COSTS 

With the average hotel room rate across the UK exceeding £100, one things for sure – hotels are expensive. However, one way to save on hotel costs is to book a rental house, which, when compared to booking a hotel can be amazingly cost effective. Indeed, if your sharing the cost of renting a holiday home, we’ve seen great deals for as little as £20 per person per night – you could barely get a hostel for that. Also, having a kitchen at your disposal can instantly cut your costs and add to the fun factor of a holiday. You can stock up on food, snacks and take as much wine and prosecco as you can carry. Even if you go out in the evening, you can make breakfast, lunch and midnight snacks, which will save some serious pennies. And the money you save can be used on other holiday activities such as taking a boat ride, going on a cooking class and so much more; in turn making your holiday more memorable. 

A HOME FROM HOME

Renting a house offers you privacy and the amenities of a regular home, but still with that sense of adventure of being somewhere new. Moreover, sometimes the four walls of a hotel room can feel a little confined, whereas a holiday home gives you space to spread out. Yep, you can kick back, relax and treat it like your own home. Which brings us to our next point…

MAKE YOUR OWN SCHEDULE

You can create your own fun, in your own time. You don’t have to get up in time for the hotel breakfast if you want a lie in. Indeed, you can get as much sleep as you need (you’re on holiday after all) safe in the knowledge that breakfast will still be there after a late start. You don’t have to be disturbed by the hotel staff cleaning your room. If you fancy a midnight snack, you don’t have to order outrageously expensive room service or raid the mini-bar to stop your tummy from rumbling. If the bars shut, you can take the party home instead of going back to a hotel room and renting a movie that you didn’t want to see in the first place. Moreover, the hosts of holiday homes are often flexible with check-in and check-out times. Yep, with a holiday rental your free(er)to make your own schedule and do things in your own time.

THE CHOICE IS ENDLESS

Whether you want to embrace the countryside with luxury cottage rentals, breathe in the fresh sea air with a beachside villa, or stay in a highrise in the middle of a mega metropolis, there are a plethora of holiday rentals available to suit all tastes. Indeed, with holiday homes there’s something for everyone. Moreover, each property offers a stay that feels more unique and personalised; something that identikit hotel rooms can’t offer.

EMBRACE & COOK LOCAL PRODUCE

A stroll around a food market should be on every visitor’s holiday hit list. But what’s the point of looking if you’re not some cooking? However, book yourself a holiday rental with a kitchen you’ll be able to cook and experiment with the gorgeous local produce you see at the market. What’s more, you’ll be supporting the local economy instead of giving the money to rich hoteliers restaurants. 

 

5 IDEAL AUTUMN TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL AUTUMN TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Ciao summer, hello autumn! The leaves are turning golden and there’s a crispness in the air that’s urging us to go on one more holiday before the winter kicks in.  And surprisingly for some, autumn is one of the best times of year to travel for so many reasons. Indeed, the comfortable and mild weather, where it’s not too hot, yet not too cold either, means it’s the perfect time for wandering around cities or exploring the great outdoors.

In autumn, travel tends to be cheaper as do hotels since it’s technically the “off-season”. Moreover, going on holiday when the leaves begin to fall means avoiding summer crowds and the annoyances that go hand-in-hand with the tourist hordes. Yep, the autumnal months are a wonderful time to visit many far off places and some that are closer to home. And here are 5 IDEAL autumn travel destinations that are enchanting to visit when the season rolls around each year.

LAS VEGAS, USA

Unbeknown to many, one place that it makes sense to visit in the autumn months rather than at other times of the year is Sin City itself, Las Vegas. While the draw of the casinos and the endless number of other attractions remain relevant throughout the year, the weather does not. In the summer months the temperature can reach uncomfortable highs of 41°C and although the average temperature in winter is 15°C, it often fluctuates and can drop to chilly lows of 0°C. 

With temperatures sitting at an average of 21°C in October, it’s much easier to actually get out and explore in the daylight, rather than being baked alive in the blistering desert heat. Indeed, the cool autumn weather is the ideal time to appreciate some of the city’s outdoor offerings.This includes exploring nearby Hoover Dam which is said to be the “greatest dam ever built”, picking pumpkins or apples at Gilcrease Orchard and enjoying some cider at the annual farm fall festival.

TUSCANY, ITALY 

While Tuscany, famous for its natural beauty as much as for its cultural and culinary significance, is a hotspot for tourists during the summer, the mild months of autumn for many are preferable – and being able to take a selfie outside the tower of pisa without zillions of tourists doing their ‘pisa pose’ in the background is just one of them.

Tuscany in autumn is wonderful. The countryside is alive with autumnal hues, and without the crowds, you can fully appreciate the magical atmosphere of the Medieval hilltop towns and quaint villages. Moreover food fans will find that the mouth-watering array of dishes on offer is even more delicious at the time of year.

Autumn means wine and olive harvest, truffle hunting and chestnuts. The freshly harvested grapes allows for numerous wine tasting opportunities and the spicy taste of freshly pressed olive oil puts an extra zing in an otherwise already amazing cuisine. Oh and in autumn porcini mushrooms make an appearance on the menus of Tuscany; if you love risotto ai porcini this is the right time to order the dish.

REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

The capital of this intriguing country is a vibrant hub of activity and a gorgeous place to take in whenever you choose to visit. In the autumn, temperatures are generally more tolerable than they are during the coldest months of the year, so you will not need to pack for permanent sub-zero temperatures, which is a benefit. 

Like other parts of the world, the trees in Reykjavik and the surrounding countryside will change colour and put on a dazzling display that you will want to stare at for hours. After you have spent the day exploring the volcanic landscape and its fabulous flora, you can eat and drink in the cutting edge bars and the restaurants of the capital.

PARIS, FRANCE 

This is yet another European city that’s a pleasure to visit during the autumn, and not just because the trip will be more economical than during peak periods. Paris in autumn is an inspiring time to visit. The capital’s tree line boulevards and many parks take on vibrant autumnal hues; it’s just like looking at a watercolor painting found in one of the city’s many galleries. Indeed, strolling around Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin des Champs-Élysées when they are ablaze with coppery colours will tease out the photographer, painter and artist inside you.

Autumn is also traditionally the time that Paris Fashion Week is held, so if you’ve got an interest in the world of clothing and design then it’s also a great time to visit and see all of the boundary-pushing creations that are making their debut.

And, there’s nothing better than strolling the streets of Paris  on a crisp autumnal day, soaking up the romance of sights like Sacre Coeur and The Eiffel Tower before finding a cafe or nearby bistro to grab a warm drink and something to eat. Moreover, since bikini season is well and truly behind us and not even a blip on the horizon, you can enjoy the plethora of patisseries, boulangeries, bistros and delicatessens that Paris has to offer without a second thought. 

TOKYO, JAPAN

While cherry blossom (sakura) draws crowds in the spring, the turning of the leaves is arguably just as beautiful come fall. Indeed, the colourful autumnal leaves known as koyo arrive around mid-November to early December. During this season, the city’s many parks are alight with the glow of autumnal hues and are certainly a sight to behold.

Other seasonal attractions include the annual Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival which is held on Meiji Jingu Gaien – a 300-meter-long ginkgo-lined avenue – and a celebrated spot for admiring autumn foliage. Here hawkers serving delicious street food dishes and local products come to sell their wares attracting millions of visitors every year. In addition,  there are quite a few food events over the autumn period. One of our favourite is the Tokyo Ramen Show. Here many of the best ramen store owners from all over Japan to sell delicious bowls of noodly and brothy goodness to the people of Tokyo and its visitors.

Speaking of food; “Autumn Appetite” is a term in Japan which describes the bounty during the season of harvest. Known as shokuyoku no aki, or the “season of hearty appetites,” many Japanese ingredients come into their own during this time and make their way onto the menus of capital. Sanma (Pacific saury) which translates to “autumn knifefish,” is delicious at this time of year. As are Kaki (persimmons) which you’ll see hanging from the trees against the autumn sky. Matsutake mushrooms, chestnuts and Kabocha which is a type of Japanese squash are also delicious at this time of year.

7 IDEAL DIY HOME DECOR IDEAS FOR ROPES AND CORDS

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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7 IDEAL DIY HOME DECOR IDEAS FOR ROPES AND CORDS

If you think that ropes and cords are just for practical reasons then think again. Versatile, and inexpensive to buy, you don’t have to be a sailor to make the most out of these fibrous products. Moreover, you don’t even need to learn how to tie a bowline, a rolling hitch or a double sheet bend (googles boating knots) to make the most out of them. Indeed, whether your want to add a tasteful nautical touch to your home, channel some industrial flair or create an array of stylish accessories; ropes and colourful cords are perfect for the job. With this in mind, here are 7 IDEAL diy home decor ideas for ropes and cords. A reverence of function and style who knew hardware store materials had so much decorating potential?

ROPE LIGHTING

Look around you in any restaurant deemed cool by online lists; any bar worth being seen in; and music video backdrop by an artist set to break into the big time; and one design consistent will stand out. Yes, we’re talking about industrial chic lighting. And one sure way to achieve this look is with rope lighting. To make a stylish rope pendant head over to a rope manufacturer and chose the length and width you want, then continue your journey on to youtube where you can find plenty of videos on how to create it.

EXPRESS YOURSELF WITH WALL ART MADE FROM ROPE

It’s essential to put your own stamp on your property, so it can make you feel happy to be home every single day. And one of the best ways to do so is with art – word art specifically. If you have a favourite word or phrase why not hang it on the wall in your home? It’s bound to become an interesting focal point in a room and could become a great conversation starter. You can do this by fashioning some rope or cord into whatever words you chose. For inspiration, as always, trusty old pinterest provides and there are lots of simple online tutorials explaining how to make your words into art with whatever fibrous material your chose.

LIGHTBULB PLANTS

Styling your home with a little greenery can add that final flourish to your interior design. Moreover, houseplants bring a natural calmness to your space; not only purifying the air that we breathe by removing the toxins that linger in houses, but also – as research has shown – making us happy too. These easy diy plant lightbulbs will not only bring a smile to your face, they will add interest to any space and a touch of minimalist flare. Moreover, they can be made from upcycled lightbulbs and cord – and nothing makes us happier than transforming by-products into something beautiful for better environmental value.

CORD COASTERS FOR YOUR DRINKS

Tired of getting water marks on your table? Coasters are just what you need to protect your surfaces from drips, spills heat and condensation marks. And diy cord coasters are ideal for the job. Simple, practical and stylish not only do they protect your table tops;  they are a great way to add a pop of colour and texture to your home. Moreover, they are super easy to make – you just need some cord and a hot glue gun.

Feel free to choose whatever type of cord you want, as these days, you can get home textile cords in an array of different colours, braids, diameters and references, lengths or presentations. In other words, there’s bound to be a cord out there that you’ll love and will match the rest of your decor. In addition, this easy DIY project would make an ideal gift for any friend or family member who loves to host guests and have lots of parties! 

Psst, hey you cord coaster lover! In a similar vein to this diy project, you could also created a coiled rope rug.

UPHOLSTER YOUR FURNITURE

Add a professional edge to your sofas and chairs with a cord trim. Choosing a complimentary or contrasting colour can really bring the colours of your furniture and the rest of your decor together. Moreover, cord always finishes a piece of furniture off with style and adds extra texture. And if you’ve upholstered a piece of furniture yourself, cord trim is an excellent way to hide those unsightly tacks and staples.

HANGING LANTERNS

Another lighting idea – we adore these hanging lanterns that are ideal for your garden and easy to make. These lovely lanterns which you can create form cord and old jam jars serve a functional purpose, of course – we’ve all had a glass of wine too many and tripped on a poorly lit path (or fallen in a pond). But moreover, they benefit the look and feel of a garden, creating a fairytale like vibe and ambience which perfectly suits any garden gathering.

MACRAME INSPIRED PIECES

We know that earlier we said you didn’t need to learn how to tie boating knots, well while that’s still true, for this diy idea knots of a different kind are involved. Macramé, the craft of knot tying, which was popular 1970s is hip and cool again and can add a boho style accent to any room. However worry not, these knots are not a difficult skill to master. But once you have mastered them, you can make a beautiful, whimsical wall hangings from cords made of cotton twine, linen, hemp, jute, leather or yarn.

5 IDEAL WINTER COCKTAIL TIPS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WINTER COCKTAIL TIPS

 

With chilly mornings and dark nights approaching, it’ll soon be time to pour away your spritz coolers and reach for your winter warmers. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect beverage to brighten your evenings, you’re in luck. Dimitri Marqueteau, Manager of Bohemia Bar & Restaurant in Jersey, has kindly prepared a seasonal drinking guide to quench your thirst. Read on to reveal five top tips for creating the ultimate alcoholic beverages at home, featuring a winter-friendly twist.

PICK UP A POMEGRANATE

Pomegranate is a key ingredient to consider when preparing winter cocktails due to its ruby-red colouring and sweet flavour. Try making Pomegranate Mimosas, using two parts pomegranate juice to one part orange juice. Then, add an orange-flavoured liqueur (preferably Cointreau) followed by well-chilled Cava. 

SANGRIA SEAON – NOT JUST FOR SUMMER

Contrary to popular belief – Sangria season isn’t over. The refreshing drink might be perfect for seaside-sipping in summer, but there’s no reason why it can’t be enjoyed throughout the year. After all, the heated variety is just as tasty. Neatly slice oranges and add them to a pitcher of red wine, then bring the liquid to the boil along with orange juice and sugar. Excelente!

GROWN UP HOT CHOC

For those with a sweet tooth, this indulgent drink offers a sophisticated twist on the simple hot chocolate. Kahlua works well with most good quality hot chocolate powders when combined with milk and topped with whipped cream. 

CLASSIC WINTER COMBINATIONS

Classic winter flavours of cranberry and cinnamon complement each other wonderfully. Add fresh cranberries and two cinnamon sticks to a glass of bourbon or whiskey, followed by a touch of lemon juice, orange juice, lime juice and sugar to sweeten. Top up with water to lessen the strength of the liquor.

GINGERBREAD DUNKING

If mornings = tea & biscuits, then evenings = cocktails & gingerbread. Gingerbread makes for a fabulous and playful addition to a warm winter cocktail. Whether you’re enjoying a warm glass of Baileys or a warm mug of Kahlua Hot Chocolate, a crunchy gingerbread biscuit is guaranteed to add a touch of festive magic to your drink.

5 IDEAL WINTER COAT TRENDS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WINTER COAT TRENDS

With the temperatures continuing to fall and the threat of snow always around the corner, it’s safe to say that winter has arrived. Whether it’s a season you look forward to, or you’d rather enter hibernation mode until spring, there’s no denying that whenever winter comes around so does a change in fashion. Coats and jackets are out in full force and with so many styles to choose from, you can’t help but get involved.

So, if you’re hoping to seek out this season’s best coats, you might want to pay attention to some of the top winter trends that have emerged during AW18. Whether you want something to complement your style, or you’re feeling brave, there’s a coat perfect for you this year. Here are 5 IDEAL winter coats trends to get your hands on this season.

Puffa Jackets

We have seen puffa jackets and Monclear inspired coats soar in popularity in previous seasons, and they’ve once again made an appearance this winter. Keeping you warm while offering a stylish design, they look great in any colour. Often featuring a hood for extra practicality, and faux fur details for extra style, puffa jackets have been seen across the runway this season. With high end and high street fashion labels both offering puffa jackets for AW18, it’s a style you’ll want to snap up sooner rather than later.

Shearling Detail

Offering an element of cosy comfort, investing in a jacket with shearling detail will keep you warm right the way through until spring decides to show her beautiful face. Shearling jackets are having a popular season, with jackets featuring collars, sleeves and lining made from shearling or borg material the biggest hitters. Updating the likes of denim and biker jackets, shearling detail can add a wintry aspect to your outfit for AW18.

Faux Fur Coats

One of the more glamorous designs to come out of AW18, faux fur coats are luxurious without the controversy. Usually seen in pastel shades like peach or grey, as well as deep colours like burgundy or black, faux fur coats ensure you stand out from the crowd.

Inspired by celebs and beauty bloggers up and down the country, this style has been seen more and more over the past few months. Whether you opt for a longer length or a cropped fur jacket is entirely up to you.

Trench Coats

Seen across multiple catwalks for AW18, trench coats never seem to go out of style. They’re a classic, which means you may well already own one. If you don’t, then it’s time to invest; it’ll last you for years and is practical as well as stylish.

A design that won’t be going anywhere fast, trench coats look great in block colours, plaid patterns and in a number of different colours. Look out for navy, khaki or burgundy colours to really blend in with this season’s shades. Providing that flattering belted feature, trench coats are a must-have this winter.

Biker Jacket

A classic design that can’t be overlooked even in the depths of winter, biker jackets are perfect for a more casual, easy approach to AW18. For occasions when an oversized coat is not necessary, a biker jacket provides just the right amount of style and warmth. Often embellished with faux fur collars, or made using suedette material, biker jackets can be both feminine and edgy. With different colours to choose from like pastel pink, grey and tan, you don’t have to go for the classic black; although no one would blame you if you did.

5 IDEAL HOT CHOCOLATE TIPS

Editorial Team
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Hot chocolate season is approaching! It’s time to wrap up and get cosy, and what better than with a steaming mug of creamy hot chocolate on a chilly winter’s eve. Hunter 486 restaurant, located within five-star boutique hotel The Arch London, makes a mean hot chocolate. So Gary Durrant, Head Chef at Hunter 486, has shared his top tips on how you can instantly upgrade your hot chocolate game this winter.

DITCH THE KETTLE

Replacing boiling water with hot whole milk is a better alternative. A splash of single cream at the end can give it an even creamier and smoother finish.

USE GOOD QUALITY CHOCOLATE

Use grated real chocolate (I recommend 70% cocoa solids) instead of powder to give it a more intense flavour. You will need to add sugar to taste to balance out the bitterness of the chocolate.

DON’T ADD IT ALL AT ONCE

Mix the grated chocolate with a small amount of milk to create a paste. If you gradually add the rest of the milk to the paste while simultaneously stirring you will find the hot chocolate is a lot smoother.

SPICE THINGS UP

When it comes to spices, a winter favourite is cinnamon. However you can always mix things up by adding cardamom and orange instead.

ADD A CHRISTMAS TIPPLE

The addition of spirits and liquors can turn it into an adult guilty pleasure. Baileys, Disaronno and Cointreau all work well in a hot chocolate.

5 IDEAL TIPS ON BUYING A VAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS ON BUYING A VAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS

5 IDEAL TIPS ON BUYING A VAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS

When looking to buy a van for business purposes, priorities tend to diverge from those when buying a private vehicle. While your private car ought to express personality, ooze comfort and most importantly, get you from A to B safely, your commercial van should be powerful, easy to drive, low-maintenance and fuel efficient. Oh, and offer a sense of branding. A big ask, then.

So, whether your van is for running errands, delivering parcels, transporting staff or passengers, or any other responsibility which comes to mind, some sage advice is always welcome. Well, we’re here to help, with these; our 5 IDEAL tips on buying a van for your business.

BEFORE YOU BUY, LEARN TO DRIVE ONE

Driving a commercial van feels nothing like a getting behind the wheel of a private car, and assuming the skill set required is the same could be dangerous and costly. A van, quite simply, is designed and driven differently. Therefore it’s advisable to get some pointers from the experts, such as via driving lessons in Solihull or wherever you are based, before buying your commercial van. Confidence behind the wheel is a must if you’re to get the most from your new purchase.

AVOID MISTAKES WITH MODEL & MAKE

Not all commercial vans are created equal, with each one designed to fulfill a different purpose. So whether it’s transporting passengers or running errands, the shape and feel of the van will be different. It’s important when buying a commercial van to look into your requirements and decide on the model and make which best suits your budget and transportation needs. Thorough research is required at this stage if you’re going to get the van most appropriate for you.

PERFORMANCE

Every business is unique, and so are its requirements and operations, which means the decision of buying a commercial van will be heavily influenced by the nature of your business combined with road conditions in your service area. If you operate in hilly terrain, you need a van with high bhp and torque, whereas, in plains, your focus should be on high fuel efficiency unless you are partial to high-performance vehicles. For running errands in plain areas, electric vans are also a good option; economical in the long run and better for the environment.

RUN A FEW CHECKS

If you’re looking at buying a pre-owned commercial van, you can never tell its condition just by looking at it. A test drive is the easiest way to start your inspection. How smooth the clutch and gearbox feel provide a good indication of the condition of the vehicle.

You’lll also need to look under the hood to make sure the engine is in good condition. Are there major oil leaks? Do you notice any rattling noise? If yes, then steer clear (not in the vehicle of course, or you’ll crash). If you’re not sure about the engine’s condition, consider hiring a licensed mechanic to run a detailed inspection, although this could get costly. Alternatively, trust your instincts.

BRANDING YOUR VAN

As we’re talking commercial vans, your branding of the vehicle is important. After all, it’s a moving advert of your company; maximum exposure at minimum effort. If the van you’re buying is vinyl wrapped, you’ll have to strip it off first and rebrand it in your own colours. Consider logo, slogan, font even, to really catch the attention of those you drive past. Oh, and remember to drive safely, or you’ll inadvertently bring negative publicity to your company.

 

9 IDEAL RECIPES FOR YOUR HALLOWEEN PARTY

Editorial Team
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9 IDEAL RECIPES FOR YOUR HALLOWEEN PARTY

‘Tis the season to be spooky, or so the saying should go. And while most of the tricking and treating yields little more than a lucky dip in a box of Celebrations, we at IDEAL think that such a lack of imagination is an opportunity missed. Why not give a fright to those knocking at the door with these fun, frivolous and flavourful treats; our 9 IDEAL recipes for your Halloween party courtesy of Waitrose & Partners.

TARANTULA EGGS WITH VENOM DIP

Serves: 6

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

  • 6 large Waitrose Columbian Blacktail Eggs
  • 150g pack essential Waitrose Blueberries
  • 2 tbsp crème fraîche 
  • 1 tbsp Sacla Sun-dried Tomato Paste

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO DO

  1. Place the eggs and blueberries snugly in a pan and just cover with water. Bring to the boil and cook for 5 minutes. Lift out an egg and lay on a piece of folded kitchen paper. Lightly crack the shell with the handle of a wooden spoon and return to the pan. Repeat with all the eggs.
  2. Continue to cook the eggs for a further 5 minutes then turn off the heat and leave the eggs to cool completely in the water.
  3. Drain and shell the eggs to reveal the cobweb effect. Ripple together the crème fraîche and sun-dried tomato paste to create the venom dip then serve with the eggs.

IDEAL tip: 150g are enough blueberries to make 12 tarantula eggs provided they are packed snugly in the pan so you don’t need to add too much water.

POISON MERINGUE MUSHROOMS

  • Preparation time:30 minutes
  • Cooking time:1 hour + cooling
  • Makes: 25-30

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

  • 3 Waitrose British Blacktail Large Free Range Egg whites (roughly 125g)
  • 250g caster sugar
  • Pinch of cream of tartar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tsp liquid red food colouring (not gel)
  • 50g dark chocolate
  • 1 tsp cocoa, plus extra for dusting

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO DO

  1. Preheat the oven to 110°C, gas mark ¼ and line 2 solid baking sheets with baking parchment. Fit a large piping bag with a 1.5cm plain nozzle.
  2. Place the egg whites into a medium heatproof glass or ceramic bowl, add the sugar, cream of tartar and a pinch of salt. Set the bowl over a pan of simmering water, not touching the surface. Whisk for at least 5 minutes or until the sugar has completely dissolved, the mixture is white and warm to the touch. Remove from the heat and continue whisking for 3 minutes or until thick, glossy and white and will stand in stiff peaks.
  3. Spoon just over half the meringue into the piping bag and pipe about 25-30 domes in assorted sizes onto the parchment, to make the mushroom caps. Flatten the pointed peaks with a wet fingertip. Dip a clean dry pastry brush into the red food colouring and use a finger to flick it over half of the mushrooms.
  4. Scoop the remaining meringue into the piping bag and on another baking sheet pipe 25-30 upright cone shapes in assorted sizes – these will be the stalks of the mushrooms. Bake the caps and stalks for 1 hour, swapping the trays around halfway through. Remove from the oven and leave to cool completely.
  5. Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water or in the microwave. Stir until smooth and remove from the heat. Using a wooden skewer, make a 3mm hole in the middle of the underside of each mushroom cap. Dip the flat underside of each one in melted chocolate and place back on the parchment.
  6. Place 1 mushroom cap on top of each stalk – you may need to carefully knock the spikey top off the stalks first – positioning the top of the stalk into the hole in the underside of the caps. Dust the top of the plain mushrooms lightly with cocoa. Sprinkle a tray or serving platter with more cocoa and arrange the mushrooms on top to serve.

GUACAMOULDY WITH CRISPY GHOULS

  • Serves: 4
  • 20 mins

WHAT YOU NEED

  • Set of 3 Waitrose Halloween Creepy Cookie Cutters
  • 4 Discovery Wrapbreads or Flour Tortillas
  • 1 tbsp Waitrose Basil Infused Olive Oil
  • Pack of 2 Waitrose Perfectly Ripe Avocados
  • 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO DO

  1. Heat the oven to 180.C, gas mark 4. Using the cutters, stamp as many shapes out of the flatbreads as possible. Arrange on 2 non-stick baking sheets and brush lightly with the basil oil. Bake for 5–6 minutes until golden. Leave to cool.
  2. Meanwhile, halve, skin and stone the avocados and mash roughly with a fork. Stir in the tomatoes, lime juice and chives. Spoon into a shallow bowl or rimmed plate and serve with the crispy ghouls.

Cook’s tip
Store the crispy ghouls in an air-tight container for up to 3 days.

SPOOKY SAUSAGE ROLLS

Makes: 16

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

  • 1 small leek 
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 450g pack Waitrose British Gourmet Pork Sausagemeat Stuffing
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 430g (2x215g) pack Cooks’ Ingredients Puff Pastry Sheets,defrosted
  • Plain flour for rolling
  • 1/4 red pepper or handful of black pitted olives, cut into tiny pieces
  • 1 medium Waitrose Columbian Blacktail Egg
  • 2 tbsp milk

 WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

  1. Preheat the oven to 200ºC, gas mark 6. Thinly slice the leek. Heat the oil in a frying pan and cook the leek for 5 minutes until softened.
  2.  Tip the leeks into a large bowl and add the sausage meat and sesame seeds. Mix well together.
  3. On a lightly floured surface, open out the pastry sheets and cut each in half lengthways to give 4 long strips. Quarter the sausage mixture and position down the centre of each strip. Dampen the edges with a little water then roll up to seal. 
  4. Lay the rolls sealed-side down then cut each into 4 lengths. Pinch the top of each sausage roll together at the top then snip the bottom of each one in a zig-zag pattern to make a ghost-like outline. Make 2 holes at the top and push in tiny pieces of red pepper or olives for the eyes.
  5. Place on 2 large parchment-lined baking sheets and chill for 30 minutes if you have time. 
  6. Beat together the egg and milk and brush over the sausage rolls. Bake for 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden. Cool a little before serving.

HALLOWEEN CAKE POPS

    • Preparation time:40 minutes plus chilling
    • Cooking time:45 minutes to 50 minutes
    • Total time:85 minutes plus chilling
    • Makes: 12

WHAT YOU’LL NEED…

FOR THE MADEIRA CAKE

  • 125g self-raising flour
  • 125g plain flour
  • 175g Stork Original
  • 175g Waitrose Golden Caster Sugar
  • 1 tsp Taylor & Colledge Vanilla Bean Extract
  • 3 medium essential Waitrose Eggs
  • 1-2 tbsp milk

FOR THE CAKE POPS

  • 300g Madeira cake (see above)
  • 50g Cooks’ Ingredients White Chocolate
  • 2 tbsp raspberry jam
  • 12 cake pop sticks or wooden skewers*, halved

TO DECORATE WITH WITCHES’ HATS

  • 6 wafer ice cream cones
  • 1 tbsp apricot jam
  • 100g Dr Oetker Regal-Ice Black Ready To Roll Icing
  • 150g Cooks’ Ingredients Plain Chocolate, melted
  • 113g pack 6 liquorice Catherine wheels

TO DECORATE WITH GHOSTS

  • 150g Cooks’ Ingredients White Chocolate, melted
  • 150g Dr Oetker Regal-Ice Ready Rolled Icing

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

  1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC, gas mark 4. Grease and base line a 20cm round tin with baking parchment.
  2. Mix the flours together. In a separate bowl, whisk the Stork with the sugar until pale and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract and then the eggs one at a time. Fold in the flours and add the milk until you have a good dropping consistency. Spoon into the tin and bake for 45-50 minutes until cooked throughout. Allow to cool.
  3. To make the cake pops, crumble the cake with your fingers to make a breadcrumb consistency. Place 50g white chocolate and the raspberry jam in a bowl and place over a pan of simmering water until dissolved then mix into the cake crumbs. Divide the mixture into 12 and shape into balls.
  4. Dip one end of each stick or skewer in the melted plain chocolate and press into each cake ball. Chill in the fridge for 2 hours (or 20 minutes in a freezer).
  5. To make witches’ hats, cut the tip off each ice cream cone about 5-6cm long and brush with the apricot jam. Divide the black icing into six and roll each out into a rectangle big enough to cover the cone. Dip the wide end of the cone into the melted chocolate and place on a Catherine wheel and allow to set.
  6. Dip six cake pops in the melted plain chocolate, gently shaking off any excess chocolate and stand the sticks upright in a heavy-bottomed narrow glass, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Press a witch’s hat on top and chill in the fridge.
  7. To make the ghosts, dip the remaining cake pops into the white chocolate to evenly coat, gently shaking off any excess. Press each stick again into polystyrene to allow it to stand upright.
  8. Roll out the white icing and cut 6 x 11cm circles. Drape each circle over the cake pops and pinch the ends to look like ghosts. Use a tiny amount of the black icing from the witches’ hats to make little eyes. Place in the fridge to chill until you’re ready to serve.

BLOOD SUCKING PUMPKIN CUPCAKES

    • Preparation time:15 minutes
    • Cooking time:15 minutes to 20 minutes
    • Total time:30 minutes
    • Makes: 12

WHAT YOU’LL NEED…

FOR THE CUPCAKES

  • 150g Flora Buttery
  • 150g Waitrose Golden Caster Sugar
  • 3 medium essential Waitrose Eggs
  • 150g self-raising flour
  • 80g seedless raspberry jam

TO DECORATE

  • 50g Flora Buttery
  • 100g icing sugar
  • Yellow and red food colouring
  • 20g Dr Oetker Regal-Ice Green Ready To Roll Icing

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

  1. Preheat the oven to 190ºC, gas mark 5. Line a 12-hole muffin tin with 12 paper muffin cases.
  2. Whisk the Flora Buttery with the sugar until pale and fluffy. Whisk in the eggs, one at a time until combined. Fold in the flour and spoon half the mixture into the paper cases. Add a teaspoon of the jam to the centre of each and spoon over the remaining cake mix to cover the jam.
  3. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and a skewer comes out clean. Allow to cool on a cooling rack.
  4. For the icing: whisk the Flora Buttery until pale and gradually whisk in the icing sugar. Add a few drops of yellow and red food colouring at a time to give an orange colour (you will need more yellow than red). Spread over the cakes.
  5. Divide the green icing into 12 large pea shapes and mould each into a thin cone shape for the pumpkin stalks then place in the centre of each cake.

GHOST CUPCAKES

  • Children’s
  • Vegetarian
  • Preparation time:15 minutes
  • Cooking time:15 minutes
  • Total time:30 minutes
  • Makes: 9

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

  • 335g pack Betty Crocker Chocolate Chunk Muffin Mix
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 medium British Blacktail Free Range Egg
  • Semi-skimmed milk

FOR THE TOPPING

  • 200ml double cream
  • Dr Oetker Dark Chocolate Chips (selected stores)

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6, and place 9 muffin cases in a muffin tin.
  2. Prepare the muffin mix, oil, egg and milk according to the pack instructions, and divide between the 9 cases. Bake for 15 minutes until a skewer, when inserted in a muffin, comes out clean. Allow to cool.
  3. Whisk the cream until it holds its shape and place in a piping bag with a 1cm nozzle. Pipe the cream onto the cakes to create ghost shapes. Use the chocolate chips for the eyes. 

GREEN THING CUPCAKES

  • Preparation time:30 minutes + cooling
  • Cooking time:25-30 minutes
  • Serves: 12

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

  • 200g caster sugar
  • 175g plain flour
  • 50g cocoa
  • 1½ tsp baking powder½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
  • 100ml sunflower oil
  • 2 Waitrose British Blacktail Large Free Range Eggs
  • 2 tbsp soured cream

EYEBALLS

  • 100g white fondant icing
  • 12 brown chocolate M & M’s
  • Red liquid food colouring (not gel or paste)

BUTTERCREAM

  • 125g caster sugar
  • 2 Waitrose British Blacktail Large Free Range Egg whites
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 150g unsalted butter, softened and at room temperature
  • Green food colouring paste (or gel)

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO 

  1. Preheat the oven to 170ºC, gas mark 3, and line a 12-hole muffin tin with paper cases. Sift the sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and a pinch of salt into a large mixing bowl. Add the sunflower oil, eggs and soured cream and beat until smooth. Add 125ml boiling water and beat again to combine.
  2. Divide evenly between the paper cases. Bake for 20-22 minutes until well risen and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Leave to cool for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  3. Meanwhile, roll the fondant into 12 even sized balls and press one M & M into each, to make eyeballs. Dip a wooden skewer or cocktail stick into the red food colouring and draw veins on each eyeball. Leave to dry.
  4. For the buttercream, tip the sugar into a 2 litre heatproof mixing bowl or stand-mixer bowl. Add the egg whites, 2 tbsp cold water, vanilla and salt. Warm the bowl over a pan of simmering water – without the bowl touching the water. Using a balloon whisk, beat constantly for 5 minutes or until the sugar has dissolved, the meringue has doubled in volume, leaves a ribbon trail and is hot to the touch. Remove the bowl from the heat, and whisk with an electric mixer until the meringue is cold.
  5. Gradually add the softened butter 1 tbsp at a time, whisking well between each addition. When all of the butter has been added the frosting may start to look a little curdled. If this is the case, continue to whisk and it will come back together. Add the green food paste or gel. Scoop the frosting into a piping bag fitted with a 4-5mm plain nozzle.
  6. If the cupcakes have a very domed top, slice off a little to level it. Pipe the buttercream in a haphazard, wiggly fashion over the top of each to completely cover them. Top with a fondant eyeball and serve

HALLOWEEN BISCUITS

    • Preparation time:15 minutes plus chilling
    • Cooking time:12 minutes to 15 minutes
    • Total time:27 minutes plus chilling
    • Makes: 20 – 24 biscuits

WHAT YOU’LL NEED…

FOR THE BISCUITS

  • 125g Stork Original Baking Block
  • 75g Waitrose Golden Caster Sugar
  • 1 medium essential Waitrose Egg yolk
  • 200g plain flour
  • 2 tsp mixed spice
  • Raisins
  • Dr Oetker Chocolate Chips

TO DEORATE

  • Icing sugar
  • Cocoa powder
  • Dr Oetker Fruity Writing Icing, in green and orange

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

  1. Preheat oven to 190ºC, gas mark 5. Line two baking trays with baking parchment.
  2. Whisk the Stork with the sugar until pale and fluffy, then whisk in the egg yolk. Gradually whisk in the flour and mixed spice and bind to a dough. Cover with cling film and chill for 30 minutes.
  3. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to the thickness of a £1 coin. Using Waitrose Halloween Creepy Cookie Cutters including ghosts and pumpkins, cut out about 20-24 biscuits and place on the baking trays.
  4. Cut the raisins into quarters and use as eyes for the ghosts, use the chocolate chips as eyes for the bats and bake for 12-15 minutes until just golden. Transfer to a cooling rack and leave to cool.
  5. To decorate, dust the ghosts with icing sugar and the bats with cocoa powder. For the pumpkins, use the green icing for stalks and the orange icing to outline the pumpkin shapes.

5 IDEAL RELATIONSHIP TIPS FOR NEWLYWEDS

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5 IDEAL RELATIONSHIP TIPS FOR NEWLYWEDS

Yep, we know what you’re thinking. Relationship advice for newlyweds is like issuing house buying tips to estate agents or, erm, barking pointers to dogs. The honeymoon period is a time of gushing, free-wheelin’ romance like no other, and as such, a period where the relationship needs little more in the way of nurturing than another tumble between the sheets.

This is the idyllic version of events. The reality, though, is that previously foreign words like cohabiting, compromise and communication suddenly enter the vernacular, and the gravity of a life spent together suddenly looms large. Being mindful of this early on in the marriage, we think, can lay the foundation for many happy years ahead. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL relationship tips for newlyweds.

SCHEDULE FREQUENT DATE NIGHTS

The term ‘date night’ is one dreaded by many in a relationship; a sign that things have got too cosy and comfortable. But, just as you courted each other in the early throes of your romance, so you should in marriage too. Life can get both chaotic and doldrum, and the focus can quickly turn on to other things. Those date nights for just the two of you are important, then, in giving you the time and space to communicate with each other, and providing a reminder of the carefree times. Consider ‘day dates’ too, putting the whole day aside to explore something or somewhere new together. 

PUT THE TWO OF YOU FIRST 

Sunday lunch with the in-laws. New mums coffee mornings. Pint(s) with colleagues. As the marriage gets cosy, priorities start to face outwards. But, as with the importance of date nights, it’s vital to keep things exciting in your marriage so that the spark never dwindles.

Write each other love notes, or send each other sweet text messages when the other least expects it, dress up for one another, buy each other spontaneous gifts and continuously find ways to spice up your romantic life.

Marriage is about exploring together and finding ways to make each other happy in all spheres of the relationship. Too often, couples slack in their relationship once they’re married, but trust us – this is the root of all problems. If anything, couples should work harder once they get married because there is so much more to lose. Protecting your sacred connection should be top priority, always.

FAMILY PLANNING

If you like to follow the traditional story that life writes for you after your wedding, then starting a family normally follows not far behind. When getting to this point, some couples choose to test their fertility. This way, you’ll be able to detect quickly whether or not you may need to consider fertility treatment, and plan your future carefully and with the gravitas that the decision demands. 

COUNSELLING AS PREVENTION, NOT CURE

Often couples turn up their nose to counselling because they think it’s only for relationships that are on the rocks. But as the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. As such, counselling can also help you two to communicate in the most effective way; strengthening your connection and relationship in an arena free of judgment and distraction.

Often, the counsellor is really just mediating certain issues or touch points, and making way for a clear, honest path of conversation that may not always be easy for you two to accomplish on your own. Every single relationship has its weaknesses, and if you’re willing to identify what yours are, professional help can turn them into strengths.

I’LL BE THERE

A – scrap that – the key ingredient to a successful, happy marriage is supporting each other even when times get tough. Although much of your life is lived as a unit, sometimes an individual may go through a period of hardship separate and unique from the couple. It’s during this time that support is most vital, as taking the rough with the smooth is what a successful life together depends on.

6 IDEAL WAYS TO PROMOTE YOUR FASHION EVENT IN REAL TIME & BEYOND

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6 IDEAL WAYS TO PROMOTE YOUR FASHION EVENT IN REAL TIME & BEYOND

In the digital age, with every flutter of celebrity eyelash and flash of famous flesh dissected and debated in real time online, it can be hard for a smaller, independent event to gain much – or any – traction online. It’s a competitive world out there and getting noticed isn’t as simple as having a great set of clothes and a clear, clever brand. But, with the right mix of promotional tricks, you can get your designs out there in the public sphere and on the lips and hips of those who matter. With that in mind, here are 6 IDEAL ways to promote your fashion event in real time and beyond.

CREATE A CATCHY HASHTAG

First things first, every event needs to embrace the power of social media and the easiest way to do that is via a simple, creative hashtag. Indeed, using the simplest device in the social media toolbox to promote your event is a fantastic opportunity to create brand awareness and engage with the wider fashion community at large. So, find the perfect #Hashtag for your event and incorporate it into all the branding surrounding the bash.

TACTFULLY TARGET IN ADVANCE

The best way to promote your event in real time is to anticipate what’s coming, and target which moments will best capture the mood you want to present to the world. Create a schedule of the highlights of your event so you’ll remember when exactly to share the most happening moments in real time; reminding you to hashtag the hell out of it, as and when it takes place. The world of social media moves fast, and we all know that if you share something too late or worse, before it happens, then you won’t get as many interactions as you intended. Oh, and don’t forget to engage in any online interactions surrounding your event; a way of taking control of the conversation and steering it in the direction you desire.

CONSIDER FAKE PAPARAZZI & PHOTOBOOTHS

It might sound crazy – desperate, even – but by getting some fake photographers to pap your event, you’ll create a real, visual buzz. These happy snappy impersonators can mimic red carpet photographers and make guests feel like true A-listers. And the effects of this radiance will look great on social media.

Equally, consider hiring a photobooth where guests can snap themselves in some garments from your fashion range. You could even consider hosting a competition – get your guests to post their best booth photo on social media with the events hashtag. One lucky winner could win something from the line, and you’ll win a whole lot of exposure. Perfect.

SPREAD THE INVITES FAR & WIDE

Invite the great and the good to your event, as every social media influencer, member of an entourage or genuine celebrity has a different story to tell and different set of followers. Encourage each and every one of them to do live coverage of the event for maximum reach.

GIVE OUT WRISTBANDS

You may think that wearing printed silicone wristbands in the UK isn’t exactly the most fashionable choice – especially at a fashion event. However, their enduring functionality for events of all kinds is unquestionable. Indeed, they are the perfect promotional item, representing a great way to spread branding. Here at IDEAL we love the idea of unique silicone finger and thumb rings too. 

To ensure people wear their wristbands, consider teaming up with a nearby bar for some cross-promotional activity. Perhaps people can go there after the event has finished and get a free cocktail inspired by your fashion brand if they show their silicone band, encouraging a length of loyalty which extends far beyond the function room door.

GOODY BAGS GALORE

Any fashion event worth it’s manolo blahniks gives out a goodie bag. Everyone likes a freebie, and one of the best bits of attending a fashion event is the goodie bag. In many cases, it’s the incentive to attend. Of course, the actual goody bag needs to look the part; we suggest a canvas tote bag with your branding on it which attendees can use again. And the contents will likely dictate what gets shared on social media post-event, so make it unique and inspiring.

 

7 IDEAL TIPS FOR ENSURING THE TASK OF HANGING WALLPAPER GOES SMOOTHLY

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7 IDEAL TIPS FOR ENSURING THE TASK OF HANGING WALLPAPER GOES SMOOTHLY

wallpaper unsplash

Mention you want to ‘hang some wallpaper’ and more often than not people will assume you’ve got your nouns and your verbs all mixed up. Those who do know, however, will assure you that today, wallpaper is among the hottest design trends around. 

If you’ve been thinking that you want to give wallpaper a try and either do a full room or even just an accent wall, then a few preparation pointers will go a long way. And we’re here to help; with our 7 IDEAL tips for ensuring the task of hanging wallpaper goes smoothly.

RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH

The good news is that information on choosing the right wallpaper for you is relatively easy to find nowadays, but with that said the options can sometimes seem a bit overwhelming. Textures, terminology and diverging tastes may make things less straightforward than you may have envisaged. It’s a good idea, then, to spend some time browsing and researching before you make a purchase; check out design magazines and DIY websites to get ideas and inspiration.

Once you’re ready to make a purchase, choose a reputable dealer, such as fashioninteriors.co.uk, who specialise in all kinds of design items including wallpaper. Guidance from those with expertise is never a bad thing.

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ORDER ENOUGH

It goes without saying that you need to get your measurements right, but it’s also vital that you order all you  need at the same time. It can also be helpful to order a little bit extra, just in case. By ordering it all at once, you’ll be getting the paper from the same run, ensuring the highest level of consistency possible. Sometimes there can be minor colour and print variations between runs, which although seemingly innocuous, can be noticeable when up on the wall.

SET ASIDE A LITTLE MORE TIME THAN EXPECTED

The last thing you want to be doing is rushing through the job, cutting corners and fingers. This is when mistakes happen, and you can really mess up the look of your room. While hanging wallpaper isn’t necessarily confusing, it is highly detailed and requires time and concentration, so set aside a little extra time than might be plausible.

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FOUR HANDS ARE BETTER THAN TWO

There are plenty of DIY jobs you can do around the house on your own, but hanging wallpaper is made much easier by having two people.To put it bluntly, trying to get wallpaper to line up and lay flat is near impossible with just two hands; the job can move along much faster and with fewer issues when you’ve got two people working on it.

KEEP IN MIND THAT THE MAJORITY OF WALLS WON’T BE STRAIGHT

Now before you go making any straight edge cuts -of course, the most logical thing to do – it’s important to realise that the majority of walls aren’t perfectly straight. It’s probably not something you notice, but in reality, it’s rare to find a place filled with straight walls; bumps, grooves and crevices give personality, for sure, but also a bit of a headache when hanging wallpaper right. For this exact reason, it is recommended that you cut the strip of wallpaper longer than you need it to be. Simples.

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KEEP STRIP CUTTING ORGANISED

As you cut the various sections or strips of wallpaper, it’s a good idea to lay them flat on the floor, using each as a baseline to measure the other strips next to. If you’re trying to keep track of where each strip will go, just use a pencil to mark the back of the strip.

BE SWITCHED ON ABOUT SWITCHES

Before you get going, you’ll need to figure out how you plan to deal with the sockets and light switches in the room. The choices are thus; either cut that section out of the wallpaper so the plate is exposed, or remove the plate from the wall and cut the wallpaper behind it. Make your decision and stick to it.

As you are papering, cut an X in the paper over the plate. This will help keep it in place and ensure there are no bare spots. Then, cut away the flaps and push the edges of the paper beneath the edge of the plate. Finally, screw it back in place when you are done.

5 IDEAL BEGINNER TIPS ON MAKING YOUR OWN CLOTHES

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5 IDEAL BEGINNER TIPS ON MAKING YOUR OWN CLOTHES

DIY is something that many people are embracing these days, for so many reasons. This could be because of how empowering it can feel to learn a new skill or out of a desire to cut costs and save money. Whatever the reason, there are so many everyday things you can learn to do, and one of them is learning to make your own clothes. If you’re fashion-forward and enjoy throwing different looks together, you may be curious about what it takes to make a few pieces of your own. On that note, here are some beginner tips that may help you in your venture to make your own clothes.

GET A BEGINNERS SEWING MACHINE

To make your clothes, one of the most important items that you’re going to need is a sewing machine. There are many different kinds of machines, so it’s best you start with something that’s suitable for beginners. Some worth considering are the Janome 725S sewing machine which you can find online, which should also be effective. Along with the machine, you’re going to need thread for stitching as well as needles too.

DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT TO MAKE 

Before you can make any of your own clothes, you need to think about what you want to make. There are so many clothing items to choose from, so start with something basic. Perhaps look in your closet and select one of your favourite tops or dresses that you can copy. Once you’ve chosen what item of clothing you want to make, you can go on to look for the items you need to put it together.

USE CLOTHING PATTERNS 

For people who are at the incipient stages of learning how to sew, it’s usually best to use clothing patterns to help you get the shape of the item you want to make correct. There are usually patterns for just about any clothing item such as blouses, dresses or skirts and you can follow the silhouette of the pattern when cutting your material. As you get better, you may find that you don’t need a pattern to help you anymore. To find clothing patterns, simply google them online or pop to your local sewing shop. 

GET THE RIGHT MATERIALS 

After deciding what you want to wear, you need to move on to get the materials that you’ll use to make the clothes. For some people, this is their favourite part as there’s such a wide range of materials to choose from. Decide on how you want your clothing item to feel and look and choose a material based on that. If you’re making a t-shirt, for instance, you’d most likely choose cotton as that’s what most t-shirts are made from, but feel free to try something different. You can go to your local material shop and take your time exploring different ones.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

The last tip in this article for making your own clothes is to be easy on yourself. As with every new skill you learn, it takes time and practice to perfect. Have fun and enjoy the process remembering that you’ll get more creative as you go along. You can also use YouTube video tutorials to help you if you get stuck in the DIY process.

Learning to make your own clothes can be exciting. It’s an opportunity to be creative as well as expand your skillset. Remember not to be too hard on yourself to begin with, as the more work you put in, the better results you’re likely to see.

7 IDEAL WAYS TO ACCESSORISE YOUR WINTER LOOK

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7 IDEAL WAYS TO ACCESSORISE YOUR WINTER LOOK

With the temperatures beginning to fall and threats of snow rumoured already, it’s safe to say that winter is well and truly on its way. Whether it’s a season you look forward to, or you’d rather enter hibernation mode until spring, there’s no denying that whenever winter comes around so does a change in fashion.

The great thing about winter is that it’s all about accessories. Indeed, cold -weather accessories can bring some much needed cheer to an otherwise dull and drab winter wardrobe, so you need to make sure that you have a good stock of them. Luckily, there are loads of ways that you can accessorise your winter look and here’s 7 of them…

BOLD JEWELLERY 

In the winter, you tend to wear a lot more layers. Consequently any jewellery that you wear can get lost. A great way to tackle this head on is to wear some statement pieces. Think about investing in some bold necklaces, large rings and even bigger earrings. With all of this bold jewellery, you can be sure that your attempt of accessorising won’t be lost. Indeed, go big this winter and you’ll look super stylish as you brave the cold.

SCARVES 

Our winter wardrobes would not be complete without a number of gorgeous scarves. This wonderful winter staple not only keeps you warm, it can elevate your cold weather look no end, dramatising an otherwise dreary outfit. Moreover, they come in many different shapes, materials and sizes; think oversized scarves, snoods, printed and knitted styles. And as such, you can easily change up the look of your old winter coat (each and everyday if you like) simply by throwing one around your neck.

FAUX FUR BOOTS

Everyone likes to be snug and cosy in the winter and the perfect way to do this is to get your hands on some faux fur boots. The fluffy lining will keep you warm and comfortable while ensuring your outfit is bang on trend. We recommended getting a pair in a classic silhouette style with a faux fur cuff or to go all out with bold buckles and tassels.

HATS 

Another great way to accessorise your winter look is to wear a chic hat. You’ll find that so many different hats work well in the winter: woolly hats, berets and fedoras to name but a few. Moreover, the great thing about wearing a hat is that you don’t need to worry too much about the winter weather causing havoc with your hair. Win. 

GLOVES

Gloves may seem like a cold weather necessity rather than a fashion statement but if you want to accessorise your winter look then you should think about getting a pair. And contrary to popular belief, gloves needn’t be woolly, boring and mitten like. Consider getting some classic leather gloves or some suede ones that extend up your forearm so you can brave the cold in style.

SOCKS 

If you want to be warm in the winter then you are going to need some warm socks. The good news is that you can use your socks to accessorise your outfit by pulling them up over your tights or your jeans. This is great for adding a pop of colour to your outfit and brighten up a dull winter’s day. Oh and knee high socks are an essential winter fashion accessory.

WINTER COAT 

Our final tip for those who want to accessorise their look this winter is to invest in a nice winter coat. This is the coat that you are going to be wearing throughout the season so make it count. If you don’t fancy going for a bold colour, then consider choosing a stand out material. Or think about going for something that is waterproof. But above all, remember that it’s all about the style this winter – that and keeping warm of course.

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO WINE MAKING

Editorial Team
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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO WINE MAKING

There’s simply nothing better than a good glass, but what isn’t so simple is the process of making it and contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t involve simply stamping on some grapes.

Indeed a lot of effort goes into making your favourite bottle of vino. To help us all get our heads around the process, our friends at Barefoot Wine have put together this step by step guide on how those juicy grapes end up in becoming those delicious flavours in our glasses.

So go on, give it a read and impress your friends at the dinner table with your new wine knowledge.

The Wine Making Process: How Is It Made? Provided by Barefoot Wine

5 IDEAL FOOD AND WINE PAIRING TIPS

5 IDEAL PLACES TO ENJOY ENGLISH WINE IN LONDON

5 IDEAL WINES TO PAIR WITH YOUR TURKEY ON CHRISTMAS DAY

9 IDEAL WINE TIPS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

 

 

 

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