What's On: Mother's Day

The 14th of March is Mothering Sunday in the UK. The time when it is encouraged to give mum the day off; pamper her, shower her with gifts, and make her feel extra special. If you're looking for an alternative from the traditional bunch of flowers and a box of chocs, here some gorgeous ways to say 'Thanks Mum'.


Afternoon Tea With A Twist

The Trafalgar Hotel is launching Afternoon Tea with a difference just in time for Mother's day. Offering a modern take on a classic tradition, the chefs have worked up a winning menu to include iced tea cocktails, salmon and caviar sandwiches and rich chocolate opera band. At an introductory price of £15.50 per person, this is one sweet treat mum will absolutely love.

When you book in advance there is also the chance to have a beautiful mother-daughter sketch portrait on the day by artist Kirk Kirtchev, priced at £90.00 - it's the perfect keepsake for mum to have pride of place on the mantelpiece. To book call +44 20 7870 2900

The Trafalgar
2 Spring Gardens,
Trafalgar Square,
London, SW1A 2TS
Web: www.thetrafalgar.com

Pampering Superskin Face Treats

Liz Earle, my new skincare crush is offering the ideal beauty gift for mum; the offer includes iconic products such as Superskin Concentrate 10ml, Superskin Moisturiser 15ml, a sample of Superskin Eye and Lip, all smartly presented in the White Superskin bag for £29.25.

Liz Earle products are rich in antioxidants, calming and nurturing ingredients to help boost the skins elasticity and perk up the complexion. Tell mum that she doesn't need a dresser full of anti-aging products, it's all here naturally in one pampering pack. Place your orders at uk.lizearle.com


A Creative Mother's Day At Bead Aura

If mum is big on accessories, then book her into Bead Aura's jewellery making class where she can learn the basics of making jewellery in a one hour beading master-class, and leave with her very own personal bracelet or necklace. An hour long class is priced at £22 per person so you can double up to share the experience.

Bead Aura
3 Neal's Yard
WC2H 9DP
Web: www.sevendials.co.uk

What's On: Vitality Show 2010

Date: 18th - 21st March
Location: Earl's Court 2, Warwick Road, London SW5 9TA
Admission: from £5.00

It's that time of year again girls, the Vitality Show is back at Earl's Court. Now with even more attractions, expect over 350 fitness and wellbeing companies under one roof to pamper, advise and inspire your health and beauty buys.

Along with all the regulars, The Vitality Show has introduced a series of new and interactive attractions for 2010 including the POM Wonderful Kitchen, with residents chefs on hand to whip up tasty healthy snacks using pomegranate juice, a skin consultation bar offering free advice on how to keep your skin looking fresh and young and a gluten free village, full of information and advice on the latest allergies and food intolerances.

There's also a new highlight: One Life Live Show; lead by experts John Lees, Jessica Chivers and Pete Cohen, the show will feature motivational talks and discussions about holistic therapies.

Admission is just £5 on the evening of Thursday 18th, and £14.50 when you book the weekend dates in advance. More on the door.

Web: www.thevitalityshow.co.uk

What's On: One Day Diva

Date: 06th February
Time: 11:00 - 15:30
Location: Jalouse Private Members Club
17 Hanover Square
London
W1S 1HU

This weekend sees the launch of One Day Diva; a series of designer sale events in a bid to satisfy your fashion cravings and support Breast Cancer Research.

The events will be set in the heart of Mayfair, and is the brainchild of two friends; Francesca Farnesi of London Dress Agency Frankie and Lola, and Hayley Smith - a singer with a passion for fashion. Expect gorgeous clothes, coveted accessories and shoes, all displayed at a stitch of the rrp.

Among the sellers will be vintage & designer couture boutique owners and industry specialists, including Frocking Fabulous Vintage, Funky Bling and Rous Iland Boutique. With 20 hand-picked sellers all showcasing on the day, celebrity stylist Ian B will be on hand to offer complimentary personal styling advice to shoppers.

There are a limited number of tickets left which include special VIP Early Tickets to get your hands on a goodie bag and receive two hours priority shopping access to the best bargains. I'll be there, will you?

Web: www.onedaydiva.com

What's On: Get Speed Dating for Charity!

Date:
Friday 12th February

Time:
19:30 - 23:00

Location:
3 Appold Street
London, EC2A 2AF

Admission:
£5 donation

Last year in my attempt to raise a wad of cash for Cancer Research UK, I hosted the Big Pink Pamper Party and the night was a success thanks to the lovely tweeters and bloggers who came along and donated.

Leanne (left) with Yve at the Big Pink Pamper Party (Look at all that chocolate she won, lucky girl!)

One of those tweeters; Leanne, otherwise known as @teenytinyleanne in Twitterville is hosting her own fabulous soirée to raise more money for the cause and the theme is befitting for the start of Valentine's weekend.

So calling all single ladies (and gentleman) to head over to a night of Speed Dating shenanigans. There'll be free nibbles, discounted cocktails and hopefully some rather dishy people to conversate with.

To reserve your place, simply donate £5 to Cancer Research UK.
Visit: www.justgiving.teenytinypartycompany for more details.

What's on: Jazz & Lyrics Season at Pizza On The Park

Dates: 7th January - 29th April

Admission: £15

Pizza Express has teamed up with Geddes Entertainments to bring you a season of Jazz and Cabaret performances at Pizza On The Park.

This musical led initiative showcases new talents for 2010 as well as some familiar faces. The lineup includes Sarah Ellen Hughes, award-winning songwriter Michael Omer and US jazz vocalist Pauline Jean.

With live music scheduled throughout January, Pizza On The Park is a cool eatery to grab a bite this month. The recently refurbished venue has a tempting new menu with a choice of 17 pizzas and a charcoal grill. Further information on the forthcoming events is available online at www.pizzaexpresslive.com or call 08456 027 017.


Pizza On The Park
11-13 Knightsbridge
London
SW1X 7LY
Tel: 020 7235 7825
Web: www.pizzaonthepark.co.uk

Main image: Courtesy of kissandtellcabaret.com

What's On: Get the Fitness Bug with Free Gym Passes

Happy New Year guys and gals, I hope you all saw in 2010 stylishly! However, if like me you've overindulged on the mince pies this Christmas, here's a healthy way to kick-start 2010. I bring you my hot list of free gym passes across London.

Yes, I'm sure you'll agree that it's essential to try out the facilities at any gym before committing to a membership, and with most health club chains jumping on the 'try before you buy' bandwagon, it's good news for us. Here are some hot offers, from places in town, potentially giving you a week's worth of free gym access - not bad at all!

Editor's Choice
Get a FREE 3 day trial for you and a friend at The Bankside Health Club

With a large air conditioned gym, state of the art cardio equipment and a dedicated spin studio, the Bankside Health Club is a convenient option for south Londoners. It's the newest and biggest health club in SE1, bringing the 'bigger is better' gym culture of America to the UK. Choose from over 50 studio classes per week and get physical in the fully equipped boxing ring.

If you're smitten with the facilities, the average membership costs around £50 per month and there's no joining fee. To claim your pass, email info@thebanksidehealthclub.co.uk

The Bankside Health Club
Unit 11a
Blue Fin Building
110 Southwark Street
London SE1 0SU

Tel: 020 7921 9343
Web: www.thebanksidehealthclub.co.uk


Get a 1 day FREE pass plus two weeks membership from £14.00

Harpers Fitness is a chain of 70 centres in the UK, and the health clubs have recently undergone a 2.6 million facility makeover to feature the latest gym equipment, fitness classes and personal training. There are branches in Lewisham, Wileseden and Harrow, all offering you the chance to test out the new look facilities.

These health clubs are community based, so you'll find the surroundings fit for families and individuals alike; great if you don't mind the pitter patter of tiny feet by the poolside, or if you have children in tow yourself.

Visit the website to claim your FREE pass and for more information on getting a two week membership from £14.00. This is ideal for getting you on the fitness track whilst waiting for pay day. Not bad, considering you could pay that for attending a few cardio classes in one week alone. For your nearest branch visit the website: www.harpersfitnessshop.co.uk



FREE Power Plate Session - various venues

Power plate sessions promise to offer a non-sweaty alternative to a productive workout. It has been claimed that 10 minutes on a Power-Plate achieves the same results as 60 minutes of conventional cardio training. It's the machine that gives the body's muscles a high-speed workout by using vibrations to stimulate them to contract and relax. Try it for yourself with a free session available across a number of health clubs throughout London, here are my top choices:

Movers and Shapers
7 Branches in London including Stanmore and West Hampstead
A 30 minute workout and personal training.
Book via Wahanda

Powertone Studios
4 Studios in London, including Chelsea and Mayfair
A 25 minute workout and personal training.
Book via Wahanda

Powerflex Studios
Located in Victoria, London
A 25 minute workout and personal training.
Book via Wahanda


FREE Introductory Pilates Session at Kinesis Studios

Pilates is still a big favourite when it comes to low impact classes, personally I'm a big fan so see what all the fuss is about with a complimentary pilates session worth £35 at one of the top studios in London.

Kinesis Studios is based in Notting Hill, and run by a team of highly trained teachers. Sessions are usually a group class of up to 4 clients with one instructor on pilates apparatus. Whether you're just starting out or a pilates fanatic, everyone is instructed to work according to a program individually designed to address personal goals and needs. Book your free session via Wahanda

Kinesis
Unit A Royalty Studios
105-109 Lancaster Road
London W11 1QF
Tel: 020 7229 2100
Web: www.kinesis-studios.com

What's On: The London Designer Makers Sale

Date: Saturday 19th December
Time: 12pm - 6pm

Location:
St Aloysius Social Club,
Phoneix Road,
London, NW1 1TA

Admission: Free

The London Designer Makers sale is on this weekend featuring 30 stalls of unique handmade goodies and gifts.

From jewellery to homeware, you'll find some of the best work from London designer makers on display. The lineup includes UglyLovely, Natasha Salkey and Ting Low.

If you get a chance to head over to the sale, you may find some last minute gifts or be tempted to treat yourself. Further information about the event and the designers can be found on the Designer Makers blog.

Email: londondesignermakers@googlemail.com
Web: www.designermakers.blogspot.com

Millinary design by UglyLovely

What's On: The Very Merry 'Kiss'mass

Date: Monday 21st December
Time: Shhhh! Top secret (read more for details)
Location: Piazza, Covent Garden, London WC2
Admission: Free

Pucker up for what essentially could be London's largest mistletoe gathering. The time will be announced at some point over the weekend, exclusively on twitter.

The mass mistletoe kiss-off on Piazza, Covent Garden may be just the place to get yourself and loved one in the festive mood, or perhaps you'll find your Christmas angel? There will be complimentary mulled wine to warm the cockles, so tell friends, make an event of it and above all have fun. Mwah x

Web: www.twitter.com/CoventGardenLDN

What's On: Pied Pier

© Alastair Muir

Date: 10th Dec - 3rd Jan
Show times: 19:45, 15:00, 13:00, 20:45, 14:30, 17:00
Admission: £10 - 26 (subject to availability)

If you like slick, choreographed moves and fancy being in the thick of a dance off, then you definitely need to go and see the latest production called Pied Piper currently showing at the Barbican Theatre. This hip-hop performance is back for a second year, with a bold urban soundtrack.

Each danced crew will be keen to show exactly what their workin' with, showcasing their unique style. The production tells a story of the Asbos; trouble-makers, causing havoc on the city streets and displaying their aggressive style with fierce krumpin' moves.

And the Pied Piper crew; who are leading the crowd, setting the trend and working to protect the masses from the menaces in society, they represent with dramatic jumps, fluid moves and soulful street dance. Which crew will be triumphant? Boy Blue Entrainment beckon you to decide, whose side are you on?

Barbican Centre
Silk Street London
EC2Y 8DS
Tel: 020 7638 8891 (9am-8pm daily)
Web: www.barbican.org.uk

What's On: Ice skating at Somerset House

Somerset House © Gideon Mendel

Dates: Until 24th January 2010
Times: Daily 10am-10.15pm (closed Dec 25th)
Admission: Adults from £10.50, children from £7.50

The new home of London Fashion Week has been transformed into the capital's coveted ice rink locations for another festive season.

Somerset house with its grand surroundings is complete with classical music and a fairy tale-like Christmas tree. Children will love it and if you're feeling a bit bar humbug about the lead up to festivities, a trip to the rink may be just the ticket to get you in the yuletide mood.

The rink is sponsored by jewellers Tiffany & Co, who have a pop-up store on-site. Those with cash to splurge can spend a pretty penny on the selection of signature pieces available. For the rest of us who are watching the pennies, at least there's yummy Tiffany cupcakes at £2.50. Here's a video of what to expect, it looks like great fun!




Somerset House
The Strand,
London,
WC2R 1LA
Web: www.somersethouse.org.uk

What's On: Winter Sample Sales

December is all about the party frocks so get yourself down to samples sales starting this weekend and grab a LBD bargain.

My top choice is the Bodyamr sale, I'm a huge fan of their clothes and with prices starting from £15, there should hopefully be some great treasures to discover. If you do pop along to any of the sample sales, I'd love to know what you buy! Leave your comments below.

Alexander McQueen
Up to 90 per cent off ready-to-wear and accessories.

Dates:
Thurs 03/12/09 12:00 -20:00
Fri 04/12/09 11:00 - 19:00
Sat 05/12/09 10:00 - 17:00

Location:
The Westminster Room
The Old Sessions House
22 Clerkenwell Green
London
EC1R ONA

Web: www.alexandermcqueen.co.uk


Bodyamr
Discounts on eveningwear, separates and accessories from £15.

Dates:
Thurs 03/12/09 10:00 -19:00
Fri 04/12/09 10:00 - 19:00
Sat 05/12/09 11:00 - 16:00

Location:
7 Coptic St
London
WC1A 1NH

Tel: 020 7691 2085
Web: www.bodyamr.com


Nicholas Kirkwood
Up to 80 per cent off shoes.

Dates:
Fri 04/12/09 12:00 -19:00
Sat 05/12/09 10:00 - 19:00

Location:
Swarovski Crystallized Lounge,
24 Great Marlborough St
London
W1F 7HU

Web: www.nicholaskirkwood.com


La Perla
Up to 75 per cent off lingerie, beachwear, outerwear, hosiery and fragrances.

Dates:
Mon 07/12/09 - Tues 08/12/09 10:00 - 18:30

Location:
Hornvale Ltd
22 Newman St
4th floor
London
W1T 1PH

Tel: 020 7291 0930
Web: www.laperla.com


Graeme Black
Up to 70 per cent off ready-to-wear.

Dates:
Mon 07/12/09 - Fri 11/12/09 10:00 - 17:30

Location:
151a Sydney St
London
SW3 6NT

Tel: 020 7565 0066
Web: www.graemeblack.com


Source: Daily Candy
Image credit: Alexandar McQueen Fall Winter/09 Collection

What's On: Fashion Thursday at Dorothy Perkins

Date: 15th October
Time: 4pm-Late
Participating Stores:
West One Shopping Centre (nearest station Bond Street tube)
189 Oxford Street (nearest station Oxford Circus tube)

Dorothy Perkins and Look Magazine are hosting a fashion soiree for late-night shoppers in Oxford Street. The event features a number of top beauty and well-being brands who will be providing products for the obligatory goodie bag and activities on the night.

There's an exclusive 20% discount across the Dorothy Perkins range and when you spend £40 or more and receive the bag full of goodies from Simple, Nails Inc, luxury chocolatiers Lindor among many others.

Free drinks will be flowing and there's also a chance to win a year's worth of shoes! (I'm sold!) Experts from Benefit and Toni & Guy will be on hand to offer beauty advice and provide complimentary makeovers.

If you're not in London, check the Dorothy Perkins website for participating stores throughout the UK.

Web: www.dorothyperkins.com

What's On: Eat Film at The May Fair Hotel

Date: 9th October 09
Time: 7pm

London Restaurant Festival starts on the 8th of October and to celebrate, The May Fair hotel is offering an tempting way to start your weekend. The hotel will be hosting Eat Film; an event celebrating food on film and featuring the 1963 Albert Finney classic Tom Jones.

Showing in the exclusive private theatre that seats a cosy 201 viewers , Tom Jones is an Oscar winning adaptation of Henry Fielding's novel. You'll be able to watch the movie with all it's comedy and amazing display of cuisine, and afterwards sample the food that you saw on film in the gorgeous Crystal Room. Expect a hearty feast – including a variety of poultry and seafood. Tickets for this evening are priced at £48.50 per person.

You're also invited to visit the hotel's Amba Bar & Grill during London Restaurant Week for a taste of fine British cuisine in luxurious surroundings. The price of a two-course meal starts at £25.

For more information on Eat Film and the festival activities visit: www.visitlondon.cm/londonrestaurantfestival

The May Fair Bar
The May Fair Hotel
Stratton Street,
Mayfair,
London, W1J 8LT

Tel: 020 7629 7777
Email: mayfairbar@themayfairhotel.co.uk
Web: www.themayfairhotel.co.uk

What's On: The Big Pink Pamper Party

Today marks the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness month and to help beat breast cancer, Pretty Stylish London is hosting The Big Pink Pamper Party in an attempt to raise £1,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Sadly, one in nine women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives. With your help, Pretty Stylish London will raise vital funds for the charity's life-saving work. Cancer Research UK is the largest single funder of breast cancer research in the UK. They are making fantastic progress, but they can't do it without our support.

The night will be a wonderful opportunity to network, unwind and indulge in a little pampering. Guests attending will receive complimentary cocktails and manicures by the team behind Pink Pamper Parties - SFC Mobile Spa.

The newly refurbished Glam Bar at On Anon is where all the action will be happening and the Bar Staff have been busy creating a special Cosmopolitan in honour of Breast Cancer Month. (I've tasted, it' so good!) Whilst Cupcakes To Go will be baking pink ribbon cupcakes to keep the theme going.

On the night, there will be a number of prizes for guests, including gift vouchers from cutting edge fashion label e.g... Plus, everyone will take home a rather exciting goody bag of fashion and beauty treats.

To RSVP, click here donate £25 which will go directly to the Charity. All it takes is 40 guests who want to support the fight against the disease, and we'll easily make the £1,000 target. Feel free to blog and tweet this invitation out to others who you feel will be interested.

For more information visit the official Big Pink Pamper Party website here.

What's On: Fashion's Night Out

Date: Thursday, 10th September
Time: 6pm - midnight
Location: Participating shops in the West End*
Admission: FREE

The annual fashion night out is back for 2009. Come September the 10th, London's West End will be hosting an evening of fashion pleasures and a shopping extravaganza.

Fashion's Night Out is a global initiative that sees the international editions of Vogue are partnering with designers, department stores, high-street chains and boutiques. There are 12 cities participating including New York. Pairs, Milan and New Deli.

The event promises to be an unprecedented feel-good occasion, full of the theatre and allure that fashion and shopping offer. The Vogue team will be working with retailers to create a night of original in-store activities, including personal appearances, makeovers and workshops, during extended shopping hours.

There's also the opportunity to raise money for charity; a limited-edition T-shirt designed by Vogue will be for sale on the night, with 100 per cent of money raised going to Crisis, the UK charity for the homeless.

Need inspiration ahead of the event? Check out the September issue of Vogue to see the section dedicated to the star buys that 73 of Fashion's Night Out participating stores have earmarked specially for the night, ranging from Gap boots to a MaxMara coat.

*Visit: www.vogue.co.uk/fashionsnightout for more information.

Fashion News: Gap celebrates 40 years with new denim concept store

The denim authority that is Gap has enjoyed unprecedented levels of success since the first store opening in the summer of 1969. When San Francisco pair Doris and Don Fisher came up with the simple idea of a shop where everyone can find a great pair of jeans, I wonder if they ever imagined it would celebrate 40 years in the making?

Gap is renowned for it's iconic denim styles, and from the 10th of September to the 5th October, the brand will be launching the Gap 1969 concept store, just off Carnaby Street. It is set to feature a large collection of exclusive denim styles and artist collaborations.

Designers Pierre Hardy and Albertus Swanepoel have both created bespoke denim pieces for the store. Gap’s new season ankle boot by Pierre Hardy is re-worked in unwashed indigo, whilst Albertus Swanepoel has designed a black felt wool riding hat with denim peak.


As part of the celebrations, there will be music from breakthrough artist VV Brown on the opening night and photographer Garance Doré will also curate an exhibition of her work for the space. Showcasing street portraits and illustrations, Doré explores the idea at the heart of Gap; highlighting how the simplest outfit can create such individuality of style and remain so enduringly fascinating.

Gap will also be giving back with special charity donations; to mark Gap’s anniversary, on the opening day ONLY they will be stocking limited edition RED rinsed jeans in your favourite Gap fit for £19.69. Half the profits from all jeans sold will go towards the Global Fund to help eliminate AIDS in Africa.

Gap 1969
G7 / G8 Kingly Court
Carnaby
London W1

For more information visit www.gap1969.com

What's On: Londoners Through a Lens

Location: Getty Images Gallery
Admission: Free

The latest exhibition at the Getty Images Gallery presents a stirring selection of rare images capturing the cultural, sociopolitical history of London. Photographs were taken from Getty's Hulton Archive and covers 90 years of London style, from 1900 to 1990.

I love how the images capture the changing scene through the twentieth century. Celebrities featured include Elton John, the late Eartha Kit and the Sex Pistols. It's a compelling showcase and worth the visit. Exhibition ends September 12th.

Getty Images Gallery
46 Eastcastle St,
London, W1W 8DX

Tel: 020 7291 5380
Web: www.gettyimagesgallery.com

Culture Spot: London Miles Gallery

For cutting edge contemporary art, you'll find the London Miles Gallery the ideal place to satisfy your artistic cravings. Based in Notting Hill, the venue specialises in Lowbrow, Pop surrealism, illustration, fine art and pays homage to the New contemporary art movement.

The gallery adapts to the ever changing art market and is reluctant to shy away from controversy. The latest exhibition on show is no exception. The collection of pieces from established and emerging international talent forms a 'naughty but nice' presentation entitled Candy Coated Canvas.

Featuring art by the likes of Tiffany Liu, Jade Klara and KuKula, Candy Coated Canvas is a colourful and playful visual delight, evoking memories of childhood, sweets, fantasy lands and adult guilty pleasures. The grand opening on the July 24th was a great success and the sweet wonderland of artwork is available for public viewings until August 24th.

Candyland Nibble, Tiffany Liu

Or And The Ghost Teddies, Kukula

Fly Panda Fly, Jade Klara

London Miles Gallery
212 Kensington Park Road
Notting Hill, W11 1NR
London, UK
Tel: 020 7727 4447
Web: www.londonmiles.com

What's On: Media Mingles

Date: Friday 7th August
Time: 6:30pm
Location: 23 Romilly Street, London W1D 5AQ
Admission: £5.00

If the idea of speed dating or singles night leave you cringing, get ready for a new event launching tomorrow that promises to do away with dodgy gongs, name badges and the general embarrassment. Kathryn Camsey, a media personality and TV presenter, has set up Media Mingles. The monthly soirees set in an exclusive private members club will give media and creative professionals the chance to network with with like minded individuals, who just so happen to not be in a relationship.

As a long-standing match maker herself, Camsey have always had a talent for 'connecting' people and is hoping to play cupid on a larger scale through her networking events. With already 150 tickets sold, there'll be canapes, bubbly and a cosy amount of single people to meet. Innocent smoothies, Benefit Makeup and Bendicks chocolates' aptly named mingles are included in the luxury goody bag for guests.

Media Mingles has been declared a couple-free zone, so if you're working in the media or creative industry and single, this could be the opportunity to increase your contact list and you may even be struck by Cupid's arrow, or is that Camsey's?

Tickets are still available at: www.mediamingles.com

What's On: Nokia Skate Almighty

Date: 5th - 9th August 09
Location: Potters Fields, London, SE1, United Kingdom
Admission: FREE

The Nokia Skate Almighty returns, the event combines live music and an open roller disco, giving you the perfect excuse to wear hot pants or some glam 80's get up. Skates are provided at the event, but there's no harm in making a fashion statement with neon coloured rollers of your own.

Don't miss this opportunity to throw some fabulous shapes to the sounds of Littleboots, Calvin Harris, The Hoxtons plus more of the UK's hottest bands. Tickets available online. What a way to get into the groove.

Order online: skatealmighty.nokia.co.uk