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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR BONNE MAMAN MADELEINE BREAD AND BUTTER PUDDING

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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR BONNE MAMAN MADELEINE BREAD AND BUTTER PUDDING

A simple twist on the classic bread and butter pudding by Eric Lanlard, this delicious light and zesty dessert is the perfect way to add a French twist to any occasion. Serve with vanilla and orange blossom custard to make it a sophisticated yet straightforward dessert that the everyday baker can create a home.

Serves 8

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 50g unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
  • 24 Bonne Maman Madeleines
  • 50g lemon and orange peel
  • 2 tsp orange blossom extract
  • 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
  • 350ml whole milk
  • 50ml double cream
  • 2 free-range eggs
  • 25g golden caster sugar

Method:

  1. Preheat the oven to 170C
  2. Grease a 1 litre baking dish with butter
  3. Create a single layer of Bonne Maman Madeleines and line the bottom of the dish. Melt 50g of butter, then using a pastry brush coat the Madeleines with it
  4. Sprinkle half of the lemon and orange peels over the top of the Madeleines, then cover with a second layer of Madeleines making sure to overlap them with the scallop shape facing up
  5. As before, coat each Madeleine with butter and sprinkle the rest of the lemon and orange peels over the Madeleines and then put to one side

To make the custard:

  1. Gently warm the milk and cream in a pan over a low heat, but don’t let it boil. In a medium size bowl, crack the eggs, add the sugar and lightly whisk until pale
  2. Add the warm milk and cream mixture, then stir well. Strain the custard into a bowl and fold in the vanilla bean paste and orange blossom extract
  3. Pour part of the custard over the prepared Madeleine layers. Leave to soak for 5 minutes, then pour over the rest and leave to stand for 20 minutes
  4. Place the dish into the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the custard has set and the top is golden
  5. Leave to cool for 10 minutes, then dust lightly with icing sugar before serving hot with the remaining custard.

 

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR FESTIVE TURKEY AND CRANBERRY LOAF

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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR FESTIVE TURKEY AND CRANBERRY LOAF

This versatile terrine from White’s Oats can be served a number of ways – try a cold slice with some delicate leaves and pickle as a starter, or hot with all the Christmas trimmings. It’s even great thinly sliced in a sandwich with cranberry sauce and crisp salad leaves. Perfect.

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Serves 8

  • 50g (2oz) White’s Speedicook Porridge Oats
  • 16 rashers rindless smoked streaky bacon
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 red onion, peeled and finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 50g (2oz) dried cranberries
  • 1 orange – finely grated zest and juice
  • 1 tbsp. each finely chopped fresh rosemary and sage
  • 700g (1lb 9oz) good quality pork sausage meat
  • 50g (2oz) pecan nuts
  • 2 turkey escallops about 300g (10oz) total weight
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preheat the oven to 180*C/fan oven 160*C/Gas mark 4. Stretch the bacon with the blade of a sharp knife and use all but 3 rashers to line the base and sides of a 900g (2lb) loaf tin (cutting to fit if necessary) allowing the bacon to overhang the edges of the tin.

Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan and fry the onion and garlic for 3-4 minutes stirring occasionally until the onion has softened but not coloured. Stir in the cranberries, orange zest and juice and herbs and heat stirring occasionally until the juice has cooked off. Tip into a large bowl and allow to cool slightly. Stir in the sausage meat and oats and mix well to combine. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Spoon half the sausage meat mixture into the prepared tin and level the surface with the back of a spoon. Press half the pecan nuts randomly into the sausage mixture. Arrange the turkey escallops over the sausage meat to cover completely cutting to fit if necessary. Spoon over the remaining sausage meat mixture and level with the back of a spoon. Push the remaining pecan nuts into the sausage meat. Fold over the overhanging bacon and arrange the remaining bacon over the top to cover completely. Cover loosely with foil and place into a small roasting tin. Pour in enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the tin and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes. Lift out of the water bath and remove foil and return the tin to the oven for 15 minutes. Drain off any juice (see cook’s tip) turn out and slice.

Cook’s tip

The reserved juices will make a great tasting gravy if serving the terrine hot! Simply make up the juices with chicken stock to 500ml (18fl oz.) and set aside. Heat 2 tbsp. olive oil in a pan, add 2 thinly sliced red onions, cover and cook for 10 minutes stirring occasionally until softened. Remove the lid and cook for a further 5 minutes. Pour over 200ml (7fl oz.) red wine and bring to the boil and boil for 2-3 minutes. Add the pan juices and simmer for 10 minutes. In a small bowl mix together ½ tbsp. plain flour and 25g (1oz) butter to a smooth paste. Gradually whisk small amounts of the paste into the gravy until thickened and simmer for 2 minutes. Season to taste.

HOW TO MAKE THE IDEAL TURKEY SANDWICH

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HOW TO MAKE THE IDEAL TURKEY SANDWICH

Head Chef Steve Smith, who has held a Michelin Star for over 15 years, gives us his IDEAL recipe for a festive Turkey sandwich., He adds intrigue with cream cheese, apple & celery and pecan and mizuna on rye bread. So, without further ado….

Makes 4 sandwiches

  • 8 slices of rye/multiseed bread
  • 10 generous slices white turkey meat
  • 100 grams sliced/ flaked turkey leg meat
  • 1 granny smith apple sliced
  • 24 pecan nuts roughly chopped
  • 1 stick celery finely chopped
  • 40g mizuna
  • 120g cream cheese or Philadelphia
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2 tbspns hazelnut vinaigrette
  • 25g butter

Method

Butter all of the bread. Divide the cream cheese between 4 slices of the bread and spread evenly. Sprinkle the pecan nuts and celery over. Divide the brown turkey meat between the sandwiches and cover with sliced apple. Season with salt and pepper. Mix the mizuna with a little hazelnut dressing, Place on top of the turkey meat.  Place the white turkey meat on top, and place the remaining slice of bread on top.  Cut with a sharp serrated knife and serve.

LURPAK’S IDEAL RECIPE FOR HONEY AND MUSTARD GLAZED ROAST HAM

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LURPAK’S IDEAL RECIPE FOR HONEY AND MUSTARD GLAZED ROAST HAM

Exemplifying this year’s top trend for luxurious festive banquets, this recipe is the perfect
centrepiece for Christmas parties or the main meal itself. The honey and mustard glaze gives a delicately sweet, yet mouthwateringly rich flavour to the ham.

Serves: 10-12
Prep time: 10 mins
Cooking time: 2 hrs

Ingredients

For the ham

  • 1 gammon joint, boneless and about 2kg
  • 1 tsp cloves
  • Pinch of mace
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tbsp peppercorns
  • 1tsp allspice
  • 2 star anise
  • Peel of 1 orange

For the glaze

  • 55g Lurpak® Slightly Salted butter
  • 170g runny honey
  • 5tbsp dark brown sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
  • 2tbspn Dijon mustard
  • Zest of 1⁄2 orange

Method

If necessary, leave the ham to soak overnight in a large bowl of water. Drain and pat dry with kitchen paper. But check this on the packaging or with your butcher.

Put the ham into a large pot and cover with water. Add the remaining ingredients and bring
to a simmer. Simmer gently for around 1 1⁄2 hours or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 70°C.

When the ham is ready, remove from the pan and put onto a clean board. Let it cool for 10
minutes. Remove the skin from the ham making sure you keep as much of the fat as
possible. Score the fat and stud with cloves.

Preheat your oven to 220°C / 200°C fan / gas mark 7, then add all the ingredients of the
glaze to a medium-sized pan. Gently heat the ingredients over a medium heat until melted.

Line a roasting tray with foil and place the ham on top of the foil. Brush the ham with the
glaze and put into the hot oven for 20 minutes, basting a couple of times with more glaze
and a sprinkle of brown sugar.

When the glaze has completely caramelised, remove the ham from the oven and cool
completely.

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR FILO MINCE PIES

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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR FILO MINCE PIES

These delicious festive treats use filo pastry for a modern twist on a historic classic. Perfect to whip up in advance and bring out when guests pop over, simply top with crème fraiche and clementine zest for a real taste of Christmas.

Serves: 6
Prep time: 30 mins
Cooking time: 12 mins

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe pears, peeled and grated
  • 60g mixed peel
  • 60g chopped apricots
  • 80g dark glacé cherries
  • 150g raisins
  • 50g sultanas
  • 100ml medium sherry
  • 50ml brandy
  • 1tbsp runny honey
  • 1⁄2 tsp ground cinnamon, plus extra to sprinkle
  • Juice and zest of 2 clementines
  • 4 sheets filo pastry
  • 25g Lurpak® Unsalted butter, melted
  • 60g flaked almonds
  • 4tbsp icing sugar
  • Crème fraiche and clementine zest to serve

Method

Start by preheating the oven to 180C / 160C fan / gas mark 4.

Combine the grated pear, mixed peel, apricot, glacé cherries, raisins, sultanas, sherry, brandy, honey, cinnamon, clementine juice and zest in a medium saucepan. Place over a medium heat and bring to the boil. Next, reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated (be careful not to burn the mixture). Remove from the heat and give it time to cool.

Next, lay four sheets of filo pastry on top of each other and cut into 6 even-sized squares
(they shuld be approximately 10cm x 10cm). Take 1 square of filo, lightly brush with the
melted Lurpak® Unsalted butter, scatter with almonds and lightly dust with icing sugar. Then take another square of filo and place on top of the buttered square at an angle to form a star shape. Lightly brush the top square with Lurpak® Unsalted butter and carefully transfer into a muffin tin with a palette knife. Next, sprinkle a few more almonds around the edge of the filo and finish with a dust of cinnamon. Repeat this process until you have used all the filo squares (you’ll need to work quite quickly to make sure the filo doesn’t dry out).

Next, carefully place a tablespoon of the cooled mincemeat mixture into each filo case. Put into the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes until the pastry is golden and crisp.

Serve with a generous dollop of crème fraîche mixed with clementine zest.

 

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE RIGHT BRIDESMAID DRESS

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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE RIGHT BRIDESMAID DRESS

First things first; congratulations! You’re getting married and there’s nothing more special. Secondly though, commiserations. As a bride, you’ve got a lot of prep ahead, a lot of stress and a lot of headaches; all worth it in the end, we know, but a weight on your shoulders nonetheless. In terms of outfits, it’s not just your own that you need to think about. You’ll also need to curate your bridesmaids’ dresses and, assuming your fiance can’t dress themself properly, maybe their ensemble too.

While it’s true that the bridal gown is the most important dress of them all – the focal point and the reason for all the fuss – leaving the bridesmaid dresses to the last moment is a big mistake. There are many factors to take into account when choosing the perfect bridesmaid dress, and with so many different body shapes, styles and colourings to deal with, it may feel like a frankly impossible task.

Worry not, however. Choosing the bridesmaid dress should be just as much fun as picking your own, and is a breeze as long as you follow simple tips. So, here is our IDEAL guide to choosing the right bridesmaid dress.

Research, Research, Research

The researching of a bridal gown and bridesmaids’ dresses can be the most fun part of the entire process – it’s also the best place to start. Gather your bridesmaids around you, buy bridal magazines (and some bubbly) or search online for some excellent bridalwear shops, and have yourself a dress research party.  Let everyone look through the pages both on and offline (for a great example, check this out and read more!) and find something that they like. Start to narrow down the designs and you’ll soon have a great idea of what you’re looking for.

Be Flexible

You may have a pretty fixed idea as to exactly how you want your bridesmaids to look. However, it doesn’t hurt to check out other dresses (even if it’s just an excuse for a day out shopping), just in case. You never know, something unique and from leftfield might just catch your eye. Shopping with friends is better than dress shopping alone, as second opinions can really help, especially if you’re set on a particular style, colour, or design. Maybe seeking a second opinion on your spouse-to-be might also be a good idea?

The Cut

Once you’ve got a better idea of the type of dress they’ll be wearing, it’s time to hone in on those finer details. The cut should be the next deliberation. Every woman’s body is different, and what flatters one shape could look less fitting on another. Try not to shoehorn your girls into something that doesn’t work for them just because it’s the perfect accompaniment to your dress or the flowers.

Thinking a little more laterally is wise. Dresses with different lengths and necklines, but in the same colour, will give all of your bridesmaids the chance to look radiant. So often overlooked but important to consider is the need to be comfortable. Your friends and loved ones will be wearing them all day, and they’ll need to be able to move around, dance, eat and breathe. Take this into account when thinking about cut and design.

The Style

When confronted with the style of the dress, the elements requiring decisions are endless. There is halter neck, empire line, strapless, one shoulder, bandeau and so much more…

The key, we think, is to pick something timeless. A cursory flick through old family wedding photos will reveal what endures the test of the years and what doesn’t. Any attempt to be on trend will likely look odd decades down the line. Fashions change as rapidly as the British weather, so it’s best to stick with something tried, tested and true. Selfish though it is to admit, you don’t want your bridesmaids overshadowing you, so keep their apparel toned down, classically beautiful, and not overtly sexy or ‘out there’. You’ll appreciate it in years to come, make no mistake.

The Colour

It’s common practice to set a broadly themed colour palette for a wedding, and this makes it much easier to decide the tone that the bridesmaids should be wearing. Even so, remember that even the slightest difference in shades can lead to clashes rather than complementary colours. If you are able, take a swatch of the fabric you’re using in your decorations when shopping for your bridesmaids’ dresses so that you can be sure (and the professionals can reassure, equally).

If you haven’t got a theme as such, the bridesmaids’ dresses will still need to blend in so as not to give a jarring effect to the wedding party. Muted hues of understatement are the ideal. Think of the flowers you’re having, for example, or the time of year, or simply allow the bridesmaids to suggest colours that they find flattering. You might end up with all of your bridesmaids wearing different colours, but if the style of dress is the same, and the colours don’t clash, then this could work wonderfully.

The Fittings

To make sure that the bridesmaids’ dresses all fit exactly as they should, fittings are a must, and it’s up to you to arrange them. Whether you buy the dresses from a designer who’ll carry out the fittings for you, or buy them ‘off the shelf’ and then arrange fittings separately, it doesn’t matter. What matters, simply, is that they fit! 

Three fittings is usually optimum, although time constraints dictate play, to an extent. The final fitting should be as close to the big day as possible, to ensure that there will be no nasty surprises (weight lost, weight gained, damange, spillages…you get the picture) when everyone is getting dressed. The last thing a bride will want to deal with is a bridesmaid whose dress is falling off because it’s too big, or is too tight and won’t do up.

IDEAL FOR YOUR FESTIVE PARTY: CHICKEN BALLOTINE CANAPES

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IDEAL FOR YOUR FESTIVE PARTY: CHICKEN BALLOTINE CANAPES

 

The chefs at Castle MacLellan chefs have created this recipe for chicken ballotine canapés, ideal for nibbles at your Christmas party.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breast fillets
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 12 large fresh spinach leaves
  • 60g of Castle MacLellan Chicken Liver Pâté with Scottish heather honey

Method

  1. Assemble the ballotine by beating the breasts one at a time between pieces of cling film until they are twice the size
  2. Lay a piece of cling film on your worktop and place the chicken breasts (skin side down) and make sure the two fillets slightly overlap at the join.
  3. Season with salt and pepper
  4. Lay half of the spinach leaves along the middle of the chicken, then spoon the Castle MacLellan Chicken Liver Pâté on top in a long sausage shape.
  5. Lay the rest of the spinach leaves on top of the pâté. Take hold of the front edge of the cling film and carefully roll the chicken up into a sausage shape.
  6. Twist the end of the film together, tying them with string for extra security. Wrap the chicken “sausage” tightly in tin foil.
  7. Cook in a baking tray half filled with cold water for about 30 minutes at 190C/Gas Mark 5
  8. Test by piercing the centre with a fine needle. When the tip of the needle is hot, the ballotine is cooked. Remove from the water and allow to cool.
  9. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours so that it becomes firm. Remove from the foil and cling film and cut on the diagonal into 1/2- 3/4 inch slices. Allow to stand at room temperature for 15/20 minutes before serving.

Alternative suggestion:

Ingredients

2 roasted red peppers from a jar – opened out and dried with kitchen paper

60g Castle MacLellan Rannoch Smoked Duck Pâté with Bramley

Method

Follow recipe as above but substitute the spinach for roasted red peppers and the Castle MacLellan Chicken Liver Pâté for Castle MacLellan Rannoch Smoked Duck Pâté.

5 STEPS TO THE IDEAL SEASONAL SMILE

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5 STEPS TO THE IDEAL SEASONAL SMILE

After a year of communicating solely on whatsapp, of remembering you had something else to do just prior to every arrangement, the holiday season is an orgy of actual, real, face-to-face contact with friends, family, and co-workers. Depending how you look at it, this is either a wonderfully social time of year or an ordeal. The embarrassing family members and excruciating office parties; well, sometimes, you just have to grin and bear it. With all the team photos being taken and subsequent social media uploads, that grin needs to be at its most spectacular, and as white as the Christmas we’re all hoping to have. So, to help, here are 5 steps to the IDEAL seasonal smile.

Professional Teeth Whitening

If the necessity for a gleaming grin is urgent, and you don’t have time for organic, hippy approved steps which may or not be successful, the simple best solution is to go nuclear, seeking professional help somewhere such as the Perfect Smile Spa. Yes, we talking about getting your teeth whitened. The process itself is quick and simple, and not as expensive as you might think. Generally, there are two options available; laser teeth whitening which is done in the office and takes about 90 minutes, or an at-home teeth whitening kit which you use an hour a day for 14 days.

Break Out The Baking Soda

If your teeth aren’t in too bad a condition, then home remedies could well be enough. Brushing with baking soda has long been a popular way to gently whiten your teeth. The soda works to scrub any surface stains off your teeth, and as an added bonus stops mouth bacteria in its tracks. Results will be more gradual than a professional whitening, but will show themselves in time. Just be warned, the super saline taste isn’t for everyone! Or anyone, for that matter….

Bleach the Stains With Hydrogen Peroxide

Another at-home technique of popularity is to use hydrogen peroxide, which works to kill bacteria and bleach stains. The idea is to do a light rinse of your mouth with 1% hydrogen peroxide, being careful not to swallow it, or make your own teeth whitening paste combining the ingredient with baking soda.

Brush More Often

Hey, look. We’re not taking you for an idiot. We get it. Life gets in the way, and most of us don’t do important, healthy stuff as much as we’d like to. This may sound really simple, but brushing strictly, regularly, religiously even, can prove to be really effective in reducing stains and promoting that gleaming white grin. After you eat or drink something that is known to stain teeth – such as red wine, coffee, or cigarettes, it’s wise to immediately brush your teeth. This stops the food/drinks from settling in and staining. The old ‘two times a day’ is just a guide. There’s no hamd (and much good) in brushing more.

Rinse With Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is known as a natural antibiotic, and is also able to remove stains with efficiency. Make a habit of rinsing with it a couple of times a day – combined with water to lessen its assertive qualities – and you will start to notice a difference within a month.

Christmas is a time of giving and let’s face it, it feels great to smile and spread that happiness around. So, this festive season, show off your pearly whites with pride and  give the gift of a smile.

5 IDEAL REASONS TO DYE YOUR HAIR A CRAZY COLOUR AT LEAST ONCE IN YOUR LIFE

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5 IDEAL REASONS TO DYE YOUR HAIR A CRAZY COLOUR AT LEAST ONCE IN YOUR LIFE

Crazy coloured hair looks awesome. Purple, green, blue, pink – you name it, we love.  Celebrities like Katy Perry and Nicki Minaj have been flaunting their rainbow-hued dos for year. Us mere mortals, though, are only now starting to experiment with different colours, partly because we’ve realised it’s still totally possible to get a job when you have indigo hair, especially if you work in a creative industry. As wacky coloured hair is having a major moment, we look at 5 IDEAL reasons to dye your hair a crazy colour at least once in your life.

ESCAPISM

Like the rise in sales of inflatable mermaids and unicorn themed products, there’s a reason why people have been dying their locks every shade under the sun. The last couple of years haven’t been very kind to us. First there was Brexit, then Donald Trump. Amid all this political turmoil,  who doesn’t want – scratch that – who doesn’t need a little escapism. Dying your tresses a blend of blue and green like a mermaid, or in rainbow-like pastels like a unicorn, adds a touch of the fantastic to the everyday, letting us escape from the serious side of life.

IT’S LIBERATING

In Vietnam,  the kids dye their hair all colours of the rainbow when school’s out for summer. There’s something liberating about dying your locks and breaking away from socially acceptable expectations of appearance. Giving your locks a fresh look can also give you a confidence boost and make you feel like you’ve created an alter ego; one who you can take to music festivals and gigs, take parties by storm and express your ideas and opinions more openly.

EXPRESS YOURSELF

Makeup and clothes are a fantastic way to express yourself. However the hue of your hair is equally important. It says so much about your personality . If you want express your  edgy, creative side, everything  from cotton-candy tones like pastel pink and lilac to mint will help you get this across. Or if you want to show that you’re at one with nature, think mermaid greens and blues.

A PICK ME-UP

The saying is ‘blondes have more fun’ but we reckon girls with crazy coloured hair have the most fun out of everyone. If you’re bored with your style and in need of a pick me up, then add some colour to your hair. Grab some pink hair dye and let your cares fade away along with your natural hair colour.

YOU CAN ALWAYS CHANGE IT

Dying your hair isn’t permanent. If you grow bored of it or end up hating your new do, you can easily change it or switch back to the way it was before. Plus, it will fade out before you know it, which is a good thing if you want to try a new colour, though a pitfall if you want to maintain your bright and beautiful hue. It’s a temporary so there’s no reason not to try it.

If colouring your hair green or purple or even all the colours of the rainbow is something you’ve always dreamt of, then in the words of Nike – just do it!

7 IDEAL WAYS TO GIVE YOUR GARDEN A ROMANTIC MAKEOVER

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7 IDEAL WAYS TO GIVE YOUR GARDEN A ROMANTIC MAKEOVER

Tired of you and your partner’s intimate exchanges being confined to the bedroom? If things are getting a little predictable, taking the romancing al fresco could be the answer. For this, you need high fences, uninquisitive neighbours (unless that’s your thing) and a truly amorous-inducing setting. So, as we peer into our garden and visualise things unwritable, here are 7 IDEAL ways to give your garden a romantic makeover.

Flowers, Herbs and Plants

Most of us associate flowers like red roses with romance and love, but did you know that some flowers have more romantic powers than others? Other that offering the visual cue of courtship, many plants have aphrodisiac qualities that induce feelings of sexual desire. 

If you’re dining outdoors, consider cooking a dish that you can add handful of homegrown coriander to. It’s believed to stimulate the libido and help cure a low sex drive. 

Eau De Pumpkin anyone? It may not seem the most alluring of plants but arousing it is.  According to research by The Smell and Taste Treatment Research Foundation, the aroma of a pumpkin gets a man’s blood rushing more than any other smell.

The ubiquitous Lavender plant, found in most English gardens, has long been used to create sensual massage oils and for good reason. The smell has been proven to turn us on. Cut a sprig for your bedroom too, for good luck and good fun.

Mood Lighting

Just like in any space, the right lighting can make all the difference. You could string fairy lights throughout the garden, wrapping them around trees, a pergola or any other structure you may have outside. Candles are perennially popular when setting the mood but may not be practical with the temperamental British weather. Placing them (real or fake) inside outdoor lanterns to add some decorative and romantic lighting addresses this issue with flickering, fancified results.

Wooden Pergola

Adding a wooden pergola to your garden is an easy way to introduce more natural elements and dimension to the outdoor space. The structure can define a space in your garden, yet not be overpowering due to the warmth that wood carries. Adding a small table underneath to enable sheltered outdoor dining is a simple touch which will reap big rewards.

Water And Outdoor Spa

If your idea of a romantic space incorporates spa-like features, you can involve them in your own garden landscape if feeling a bit adventurous. A water feature can be installed; hanging chimes can be incorporated; a dedicated meditation space can be laid out. Anything can happen.

The Path To Passion

A walkway or simple garden path can be worked into your current landscape to give the feeling that you’re transitioning from the oppression of four walls to somewhere mystical and magical. Depending on the layout of your garden, you can incorporate a winding or straight pathway and use garden lanterns, hedgerows, and trees to line the way. Use pebbles, wood, gravel, brick, concrete pavers; whatever suits the vibe of the garden, basically.

Quiet Corner

Particularly for gardens on the smaller side, squaring off out a quiet corner will indicate a designated private, romantic space. This is where you can go all out in one area, perhaps with a bench and tall lanterns on the sides, fairy lights hanging through the trees and flowers surrounding. The primary objective here is contrast with the rest of the more functional, frugal garden space.

Outdoor living

An outdoor living space gives you a way to bring the indoors out and create a designated ‘resting’ place; the serenity of outdoors, the retreat of in – the best of both worlds, we think. If you enjoy resting or reading a book outside, a hammock is a snug place to cosy up in. Even with limited space, you can turn your porch into an indoor-to-outdoor space by partially closing it in with glass doors or hanging vines.  Hell, you can take shelter in the shed if the mood so demands it. The world – sorry, garden, is your aphrodisiacally inclined oyster.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR CHOOSING A CREATIVE CAREER

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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR CHOOSING A CREATIVE CAREER

The tick of the clock. The tap of the keys. The fire drills, endless, meaningless meetings, and incessant drone of prosaic management speak. I’m in an office, get me out of here.

Have you ever woken up in the morning and thought to yourself, I should be doing something creative with my life? You’re not alone. Who doesn’t dream of pursuing an artistic career which actually nurtures your passions rather than fill the coffers of capitalism. It’s time to embark on something. It’s time really push your creative side.  

“Following your passion” or “doing what you love” looks great on those motivational posters beloved of Instagram influencers and underground escalators, but in reality, it’s not always easy to decide on the right path. We want to help. So, here are 5 IDEAL tips for choosing a creative career.

BE HONEST

With yourself, we mean. First and foremost, figure out where your creative passion lies and pursue it with fervour. This could be drawing, cooking, painting, or anything else that fans the flames of passion inside you. Give yourself a chance to find out what you love to do – if you never try, you’ll never know, after all.

Monetising passions takes hard work and steely dedication, go in all guns blazing, for sure, but maybe have the silencer attached. Things may not work out.  You may have a romantic idea about becoming a chef, but in reality hate the unsociable hours. You might dream of being a recording artist, but find the guitar strings cut your fingers. Perhaps you think you’ll have your work exhibited in the Louvre, but the smell of paint fumes makes you dizzy. Be brave, be bold, but be honest.

TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

Finding a creative outlet can be tough, but you’ll have picked up skills along the way which will serve you well in a more fulfilling post. Many of the aspects that make up your ‘ability’ will be transferable to a new job, even if the description and brief are different. It’s only words; be flexible and you’ll fit in.

GET SOME EXPERIENCE

Getting out there, volunteering and doing internships is a great way to dip a toe in the water and checking if your new, chosen creative path is a dead end or a road to glory.

WARN YOUR WALLET

Money may not matter to you if you’re doing something you love, but you need to keep it in mind that toil and struggle can feel a burden doubled if you’re not reaping financial benefits. It’s not easy having a creative career, and often the money is low and the hours long. Your work/life balance may suffer, too, as starting from the bottom rung of the ladder takes extra hours and amounts of work. Be prepared to take the hit.

DO YOUR DUE DILIGENCE

As you start to whittle down your options, be sure to some thorough research.

5 IDEAL REASONS TO USE AN EYE SERUM

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL REASONS TO USE AN EYE SERUM

With eye creams and face moisturisers already in our bathroom cabinets, the question on the lips of cosmetics fans everywhere is this; is an eye serum really necessary? If you want to ward of wrinkles, curb crow’s feet and say ta-ta to puffiness all while promoting a healthier, more youthful appearance, then the answer, is a wholehearted, affirmative, yelled-from-the-rooftops YES!

Here at IDEAL, we like to think of serum as a multivitamin that works from the inside out. They are chock full of nourishing, moisture-loving active ingredients that work wonders for your skin if applied regularly. There are lots of different serums out there that are aimed at specific concerns, though overall, they all boost your skin’s resilience and radiance. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL reasons to use an eye serum.

Easily Absorbed And Lightweight

Unlike an eye cream, eye serums tend to be more fluid and lighter. This allows the skin to absorb them with ease, delivering high-potency ingredients deep down and beyond the layers of skin which normal moisturisers usually penetrate.  Oh, and because they’re easily absorbed, less residue is left behind – ideal for applying makeup, then.

Makes Eyes Look Brighter

In a digital world where we’re glued to our screens both at home and at work, where dry eye syndrome is increasingly common and where squinting-as-you-scroll is wrinkling the skin around our eyes, there’s never been a better time to start using a serum. Not only do they restore suppleness and radiance to the skin, making your eyes look less tired, they also smooth the skin around your peepers allowing more light to be reflected into the eyes – meaning brighter looking eyes.

Reduces Puffiness, Bags And Dark Circles

Puffiness, bags and dark circles. We hate them. These three little things can completely change the look of your face, making you look tired, drawn, and ultimately, old. Of course, dark pillowy under-eyes are complicated and there are a whole host of reasons why they may appear. There are also an equal number of things we can do to reduce them, for example drinking ample fluid to prevent dehydration, reducing salt in your diet and of course getting plenty of sleep and rest.

But applying a serum specially formulated for use around the eyes can help reduce puffiness quickly. Creams can do this to, however they are usually heavier and sit on the surface of the skin and gels have a higher water content, neither of which aren’t great for puffy eyes. Serums, however, are lightweight and often use ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants to combat puffiness.

Minimize Signs of Aging 

For us, applying an eye serum is the number one step for minimizing the appearance of wrinkles, crows feet and fine lines around the eyes. The skin in this region is very delicate – it can be up to 10 times thinner than the skin on the rest of your face – and signs of aging easily show up. However, using an eye serum can reduce the depth and volume of wrinkles and other key signs of ageing around the eye contour and restore elasticity to the skin around the eyes. Look for an eye serum with magic ingredients that targets this specifically.

We can’t recommend Utopia’s Instant Firming Eye Serum (15 ml £27) enough. Created by the scientist behind Boots iconic Protect & Perfect range, it combines all the best bits of the finest eye serums on the market, all in one bottle. Plus it’s paraben free, which is a biggy.

That’s not the most impressive bit, though. Within just two weeks of use, its targeted formula has the effect of a collagen injection, targeting the signs of aging around the eye contour, visibly reducing crow’s feet, puffiness and dark circles. This is because Nano technology enables the serum to penetrate deep beyond the layers of the skin, enabling the eye serum to restore and generate new high quality elastin fibres from within – pretty impressive if you ask us.

It’s Calming

Just like using a face mask, applying a serum can help to relax you. Taking time out of your busy schedule to take care of yourself, setting aside some ‘me time, and treating the experience of application as though you were in a spa, is the perfect way to unwind, de-stress and take a time out from the toils of modern life.

Top Image  © Snowden Ltd

10 IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS FOR MOTORBIKE ENTHUSIASTS

Editorial Team
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10 IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS FOR MOTORBIKE ENTHUSIASTS

Yes, we get it. We completely sympathise. Christmas has rolled into town, clad in kitsch clothing, in a chorus of carols and cheese, and you’re not quite ready yet. Those over prepared family members have already got their decorations polished, gleaming and in position and their Amazon wishlists primed.

All well and good and in many ways welcome; one less thing to think about at this stressful time of year and all that. But what to buy for that cool cousin? The brooding one who stands in the corner at parties exuding distant sophistication. He gives nothing away. He’s way too rock’n’roll to ask for gifts, but the clues are there. The permanent leather jacket, the chaffed knuckles and windswept locks, the oil marks on his jeans….

When it comes to gift buying for motorcyclists, useful, welcome items are abundant. No matter what your budget,  there’s something out there for everyone – from grand gestures to thoughtful stocking fillers and everything in between. So, with that in mind, here are 10 IDEAL Christmas gift ideas for motorbike enthusiasts.

Helmet Camera

Helmet cameras have become increasingly popular recently; people love to have a look at their ride and review all they’ve seen seen – or rather, missed, due to the speeds they reach. It is also a handy tool should you be involved in an accident; we’ve all seen the footage of arguments and such on the news, all caught on these types of camera as evidence.

If you want to splash the cash, then you can’t go wrong with with a decent helmet camera with a few add on accessories. GoPro are the market leaders here, so as a starting point, check out their range.

Motorcycle Tools

Breakdowns happen and motorbike enthusiasts really pride themselves on that D.I.Y ethos; never are they happier than with a spanner in mind and a heavy tune on the radio. You can be as generous or miserly as you wish with tools; go for an air compressor and air tools or some feeler gauges that check the valve clearances, or a pocket-sized pressure gauge for their tyres, for instance.

Bike Locks

Motorcycle security is important and sadly responsibilities can sometimes be easily forgotten in all that ‘nothing but the open road’ talk.  Professionally designed locks come in all different shapes and sizes, from disc brake versions to ones that fit around anchors. A little extra security – as well as peace of mind – goes a long way, making this a sensible, practical gift.

SatNav

Motorcyclists all like to think they have a natural affinity with the road and an intuition that renders SatNav a device for novices. But whether you’re navigating the daily commute or heading to the dealership to ogle those new Indian motorcycles for sale, pulling over to constantly check your phone or ask for directions isn’t a good look, and we’re sure the subtle hint of this gift won’t hurt their pride too much.

Visor Replacements

Motorcyclists have more important things on the brain than their visors and as such, never get round to replacing them. It’s something that’s with you on every ride though, so should be given some attention. A new visor can make the whole helmet feel new, so don’t neglect it if you’re stuck on what to buy.

Clothes

You can’t go wrong with motorcycle clothing, from jackets and trousers to shoes and helmets. It’s having a moment in the sun right now too, making for a practical, fashionable present. Riders are always in need of gloves – both a summer and winter pair – and are always misplacing them, so a new set certainly wouldn’t hurt. Winter gloves can get wet with the weather so it is good to have a spare.

Lubricants And Spray

A toolkit for a motorcycle isn’t complete without a range of lubricants or sprays owing to how much oil, grease, and formulas one needs on the road. Chain lube, copper grease, air filter, brake fluid or motorcycle polish are all great ideas.

A Key Ring

Not the most expensive gift, we know,  but actually one which can be thoughtful, personal and unique, especially if you get it personalised or it represents something of meaning to the receiver. A stocking item sure, but certainly not a filler.

Bluetooth Intercom Set

If someone you know is touring around the countryside or city with a partner in crime, then get them one of these. An intercom set can make your rides enjoyable and safer, enabling communication between bikes or simply chat with your pillion passenger behind you. Because it’s Bluetooth you can also use it to play music from your phone, too. All together now; born to be wiiiilllllld.

Noise Cancellation and Hearing Protection

The strong gusts of wind as you approach maximum speed. The roar of the exhaust as you speed away from the lights. The beeping of the horn in anger or merriment. Motorbiking can be a noisy business. NoNoise New Generation Ear Plugs are a fine choice for those concerned about hearing loss. Which, let’s face it, we should all be…

5 IDEAL REASONS TO STOP THE HOARDING AND JUST DECLUTTER

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL REASONS TO STOP THE HOARDING AND JUST DECLUTTER

‘Collect memories, not stuff’, as the old (new) Instagram-friendly adage goes.  While having lots of cool things is important to the materialists among us, there really is a limit to how much you can fit into a home. The last thing that you want is to be that guy on a Channel 4 documentary about hoarding, who lives in his shed whilst his magazines take pride of place on the sofa and in the bed. So call up your local skip hire company & get ready to toss out all the clutter around your home.

While it may be hard to chuck surplus stuff out – after all, sentimental value is one hard price tag to ignore – it really is a necessary step to a simpler life.

IT GIVES YOU MORE SPACE, PHYSICALLY & MENTALLY

Perhaps the biggest benefit that comes from a de-clutter is the additional space. Yes, it’s obvious. Yes, it’s a cliche. But we’ll say it nonetheless; ‘tidy home, tidy mind’. Indeed, the minimalist approach feels like it frees up the mind of clutter too. With more space to move freely, they’ll be less things to bump into and less distractions – a particular bonus if you work from home and are suffering from a dip in productivity.

PERSONALISE & STREAMLINE YOU HOME’S DECOR

Most people who have just bought a home will naturally bring all the clutter of their previous place with them. While this sounds like a sound, sensible move, it can interfere with the sense of style of the new place. If you have an eclectic mix of décor items that don’t really match, you may want to start getting rid of some things. By decluttering your living space, you can start to streamline your decor and take control of a unique, focused ambience.

MAKE A BIT OF POCKET MONEY

Getting rid of the unwanted clutter in your home is also a great way to make a few extra quid. Organise a carboot sale, stick some stuff up on eBay or simply trade any unwanteds with friends and family. To earn a few extra karma points, give generously to charity and then feel all warm inside afterwards. If ever there was a reason to declutter your home this is it.

CLEAN EASIER

If you dread cleaning your home due to the overwhelming amount of clutter you have, getting rid of unnecessary excess is essential. Keeping everything organized and clean is a more simpler (fun, even) proposition post a no-holds-barred clean up. As we all know and have no doubt been guilty of,  putting off this process will usually result in things getting much worse. Procrastination, however appealing, is never the answer. Reaching out to professionals – a house clearance service for instance – is ideal if you lack the time needed to go through the things you have in place.

IT ADDS VALUE TO YOUR HOME

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, right? But if a fresh, unsentimental pair of eyes saw your home, what would they think? Do you find it hard to get rid of old magazines and newspapers – even if you only read them once? Perhaps you have a collection of family heirlooms or ornaments on display? While you might love your clutter, would a potential buyer feel the same? A lot of questions, we know, but ones you should be asking yourself if you want to maximise the sale potential of your property. Decluttering is the first step to help you on your way.

5 IDEAL QUICK WAYS TO FIT IN A WORKOUT DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL QUICK WAYS TO FIT IN A WORKOUT DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

The Christmas period can play havoc with your diet and exercise routines. With busy schedules, decadent meals and boozy nights out to contend with, it’s no wonder that many of us feel out of shape and sorts come January. Fear not though, there really is no need to let your fitness regime fall quiet and your belt strap slacken this festive season.

With a little planning and correspondent discipline, you can find the time amongst the present panic buying and festive pints to stay in control of your fitness throughout December. These fast, simple workout ideas can be easily incorporated into your festive schedule, creating a chance to indulge this Christmas without the usual guilt . So, here are 5 IDEAL quick ways to fit in a workout during the festive season.

DEPLOY FESTIVE ACTIVITY HACKS THAT BURN CALORIES

If you’re too busy socialising, celebrating and shopping to find the time to exercise, then kill two birds with one stone by turning your festive activities into calorie-burning workouts. Simple updates to your routine, like getting off the bus a stop early and walking the rest of the way, are an easy way to incorporate exercise into your daily schedule. When Christmas shopping, avoid the lifts and escalators and take the stairs instead, and be sure to quicken your pace when walking.

You can even turn festive social activities into exercise, too. In fact, according to My Calories Burned, an hour of moderately fast ice skating could burn as much as 651 calories, making it a great workout as well as a festive family outing. Likewise, dancing on your Christmas night out could burn over 500 calories an hour, so don’t hold back on the dance floor at the office party.

REPLACE LONGER SESSIONS WITH HIIT

Don’t think you’ve got time for a full workout? Think again. If you need to get your exercise fix in a hurry, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) will help you burn calories, work your muscles and get your heartrate up in a flash. In fact, HIIT may even be more effective at burning fat than longer periods of moderate intensity exercise, according to a study published on the National Centre for Biotechnology Information.

So, if you’re pressed for time this December, swap long sessions in the gym for HIIT. These beginner-friendly HIIT routines from The Daily Burn are a great place to get started, and can even be done at home – double win.

GET OUT AND ABOUT ON CHRISTMAS DAY

If your usual Christmas Day routine involves falling into a food coma in front of the TV, consider switching things up with some outdoor activity. A long walk will help you burn off your festive dinner, and will help you to avoid the energy slump that often follows a massive meal. So this year, get up off the sofa, wrap up warm, and take a long walk with the family. If you need some help finding the ideal route for a winter walk, The Ramblers have a handy search tool to help you find walks in your area.

TRY FAST CLASSES AT THE GYM

Many major gym chains like Virgin Active now offer fifteen-minute targeted classes, so you can work up a sweat even when you’re pressed for time. This way, you should have time to fit in a workout on even the busiest of days this December. If you’re otherwise engaged during the evening, consider trying out a fast class during your lunch hour. Where there’s a will, there’s a way, as they say.

BRING THE GYM HOME

Getting to the gym can be a major drain on time, especially when it feels like you’ve got a million things on your plate. Here’s the thing though; you don’t need a full range of gym equipment to get a good workout. If you invest in just a few staple pieces of kit, you can get a high-intensity workout without leaving the house.

Not sure where to start? A kettlebell is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used for multiple workout routines that target different areas of the body. This collection of kettlebells from Powerhouse Fitness offers models in a selection of sizes and weights, suitable for strengths and fitness levels. Or try this full-body workout from Self, which takes just twenty minutes — perfect if you’re in a rush.

The Christmas season doesn’t have to mean the end of your fitness routine. With these time-saving tips, and a little self-discipline, you can ring in the New Year feeling happier and healthier than ever.

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