Valentine’s Gift Guide ! Part 4 !

The Officer and The Gentleman
Dream Wedding Creates
a New Philanthropic Power Couple

Lt. Col. Allison Ecung and Freiherr Raban von Arnim (Photo credit: Mr. Matthias Paco)

Freiherr Raban von Arnim and Lt. Col. Allison Ecung Exchange Marital Vows and a Commitment to Help Charitable Causes During a Weekend of Festivities

The recent wedding of Freiherr Raban von Arnim and Lt. Col. Allison Ecung created a unification with not just special meaning for the happy couple, but also a gift for society.

The philanthropic couple exchanging vows was symbolic of their beautiful bond, as well as that of two people helping to make the world a better place. Their romance has created for them a keen sense of the importance of giving and a passionate vision to support those most in need in the world.

A select group of 100 international guests from Mexico, Sweden, Denmark, England, India, South Korea, Australia, the Netherlands, Spain, as well as the United States and Germany traveled to Potsdam in Germany for the blissful celebrations. Multiple events over the course of three days took place took place at the soirée including a traditional Polterabend at Villa Schöningen on the Bridge of Spies Friday.

A Saturday formal ceremony in morning attire took place at St Peter and Paul Wannsee, the former church and sacred burial place of the Prussian Royal Family. Following was a luncheon reception at the American Academy in Berlin. The couple has proudly over the years backed this cultural institution’s work in New York City and Berlin.

Then a black-tie wedding ball with cocktail hour commenced along with a three -course dinner all followed by dancing until the early hours of the morning at Castle Kartzow. The festivities were completed with a Sunday Goodbye Brunch at Castle Kartzow, which ended with a special honeymoon for the pair in Egypt. A prior bridal reception was hosted at Mikimoto, which was declared to be serendipitous since pearls are the symbol for a Baron’s coronet.

Their romance was born from a mutual compassion to support charitable causes. First meeting at charity events in Europe, they equally agreed to have their nuptials highlight important causes. Guests were invited to donate to the Mission Society of New York City (https://www.missionsociety.org/) and Brot für die Welt (www.brot-fuer-die-welt.de) in lieu of more traditional gifts. Other organizations the couple support include White Cross Ball for the Order of Malta, The Frick Collection, and the New York Friends of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

The true definition of a power couple, their thought-provoking relationship can only be described as the stuff of a romantic film on the silver screen – An American officer travels overseas, meets a European nobleman and they fall in love.

The prestigious pair’s background has all the hallmarks of a real-life fairytale. Lieutenant Colonel Allison Ecung is a Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Air Force National Media Outreach Office in New York. In this capacity, she is responsible for maintaining national media relationships, along with planning and engaging through Senior Leader media and civic operations. Lieutenant Colonel Ecung commissioned from the U.S. Air Force Academy and began her career as a communications and cyberspace operations officer. She later completed her master’s degree in international relations, transitioning to the public affairs field before being selected as a Foreign Area Officer for the European region.

The Baron studied law at Heidelberg University and currently provides legal consultation for Charite Hospital in Berlin. Historically his family has produced several famous writers and artists and he is a descendant of the famous writer Bettina Freifrau von Arnim, whose face was formerly on the Deutschmark bill. He remains very involved with the events and programs at his family’s historical homes, particularly at Zernikow manor.

Looking to the future, the Baron and new Baroness will focus on continuing support for German and American charities, especially the New York Quadrille Ball, at which Ecung has danced in the past and has actively supported since then. She also remains on the junior steering committee for the American Ballet Theatre and the Young Fellows Steering Committee for The Frick Collection.

Be it a friend, partner or coworker, there’s something for everyone this Valentine’s
Day

Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s, Galentine’s or Palentine’s, gift your special someone something extraordinary and enjoy a delicious serve from CÎROC, Chase, Smirnoff and Tanqueray this February 14th. Tickle your Valentine pink and mix it up this Valentine’s with colourful Valentine’s Day themed serves from your favourite gin & vodka brands. Get planning your celebrations now with our round-up of drinks to share with the ones you love, no matter your budget!

If you’re looking to go all out on February 14th, go bold and gift the unexpected
with CÎROC Red Berry Flavoured Vodka.

Distilled five times to ensure high quality, CÎROC Red Berry is infused with fresh raspberries and blackberries for a refreshingly delicious and smooth experience. So go on, go all out this Valentine’s and make a toast with this premium vodka!

70cl, ABV 37.5%, RRP: £33

Chase Pink Grapefruit & Pomelo is the perfect gin for the discerning Gin lover.
The zesty taste profile mixes perfectly with lots of ice, tonic and garnished with a wedge of pink grapefruit or in a cocktail. The delicious premium Gin is perfect for an extra special treat this Valentine’s Day.
70cl, ABV 40%, RPP; £38

Enjoy a delicious taste of the extraordinary with Smirnoff Berry Burst Flavoured
Vodka.

Bold, vibrant, deliciously juicy taste and the perfect accompaniment to the ultimate evening of fun with friends. Bursting with succulent berry flavours, it pairs best with lemonade over ice, the perfect accompaniment to a romantic night in or a fun night with friends!
70cl, ABV 37.5%, RRP: £17.50

Looking for the perfect gift for a gin lover?

Try Tanqueray Blackcurrant Royale, a sumptuous and unique distilled gin made with juicy French blackcurrants and delicate vanilla notes, elevated with hints of black orchid and balanced with the
four classic London Dry botanicals. Inspired by the French heritage and travels of Charles Tanqueray during the 1840s, this gin brings a decadent, delicious flavour that is best enjoyed served with plenty of ice, lemonade, a wedge of lemon and a handful of dark berries.
Tanqueray Blackcurrant Royale: 70cl, ABV 41.3%, RRP: £27

Or if you’re looking to moderate this Valentine’s Day, why not try a refreshing
non-alcoholic alternative with Tanqueray 0.0%?

Exhibiting notes of vanilla and botanicals, with a piney juniper aroma, this really is a must try. Mix it up in a cocktail or serve over ice with tonic water for a delicious alcohol-free alternative to toast to your loved one!
Tanqueray 0.0: 70cl, ABV: 0%, RRP: £17

Valentines gifts for all the family ❤️

EZVIZ DB2 battery-powered doorbell (Free Chime included) – currently available at Amazon and Very for £109.99

EZVIZ, an expert in smart home security, recently introduced its 2K+ video doorbell. Completely wire-free in design with an embedded rechargeable battery, the DB2 is easy to install, and it also features a handful of pro features to make front-door security easy.

This wireless and wire-free doorbell is fully battery-powered and can be set up anywhere in minutes. The DB2 Pro can run up to 115 days on one full charge, which is maximized by its emerging-saving mode. It’s also fully weather-proof to withstand any extreme weather.

The DB2 lets users know who’s there, even when they’re not at home. It has an extremely wide viewing angle to see visitors from head to toe all via the EZVIZ app. It also features night vision of up to 5 metres.

The DB2 rings and helps people answer the door in an effortless way, even from afar. An instant video call will be initiated to the mobile phone, so users can see and talk through the EZVIZ App to let friends know if it’s a good time to visit or tell the postman to place parcels in a preferred spot. It is also smart to detect human movements rather than running pets or moving leaves. Video storage is made safe and flexible to make sure the doorbell captures and preserves every key moment. The DB2 Pro supports local storage through a large microSD card of up to 256 GB, which can be inserted onto the indoor chime for enhanced data protection. EZVIZ also supports encrypted cloud storage upon subscription.

The DB2 is also hard to tamper with. In case the doorbell is forcibly removed, a sharp alarm will set off, while a mobile alert reaches the user.

EZVIZ C6 AI Smart Camera – available from Amazon.co.uk for £89.99

The EZVIZ C6 AI smart camera in an indoor camera that is small in size and big in functionality. It is the perfect way to keep an eye on your family or pets when you are not home.

With on-camera AI, the C6 2K+ identifies humans and pets in an instant and detects abnormal sounds to add an extra layer of protection. The camera can automatically zoom in up to 4 times to follow a moving object and has 360° panoramic view.

The C6 can also track high-speed activity and fast movements will not appear blurry in the camera’s vision, thanks to the 25 fps video recording capacity.

The camera also has safe video storage, enabling you to secure your unforgettable memories on a local SD card. What’s more, the camera notifies you when you are needed and can alert you when the noise level suddenly changes. Your family members can also simply wave at the camera to initiate a video call to your phone. Cute and compact, the C6 is the must-have technology for any modern home where maintaining contact and security 24/7 is of utmost importance.

Award winning for its innovative design, the EZVIZ BM1 Baby Monitor – Available from Amazon for £149.99

The EZVIZ BM1 Baby Monitor is the latest innovation from EZVIZ. The BM1 transforms advanced camera and AI technology into a visutally pleasant, user-friendly and baby-safe helper that simplifies daily parenting tasks. The camera sends immediate notifications when it detects crying. It also has out-of-crib alerts and baby activity detection (powered by human shape algorithm). The monitor also auto-plays soothing music and has clear night vision without a visible red light. The camera has a view from anywhere and there is also a hear and talk function, enabling a parent to communicate with the baby from another part of the home. The BM1 is easy to set up, has an all-night battery and supports microSD cards. It is also compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

The EZVIZ BM1 comes in two colour versions, pink with bunny ears and blue with teddy bear ears. It is made with baby-safe non-toxic silicone and no sharp edges and with100% wire-free setup, the Baby Monitor 1 keeps curious hands or walking toddlers away from dangerous cords. The monitor can be clipped to a cot or crib with an adjustable bracket and can also be removed from the bracket and placed on a table near a play area or similar. It is also perfect for taking on a trip or for a stay-over with the grandparents.

The BM1 is the must-have accessory for any nursery.

BuddyPhones® StoryPhones are an award-winning smart headphones that play audio content off-line., offering the latest in screen-free entertainment. Collaborating with Disney, the headphones come in pink and blue – Available from Amazon for £84.99

ONANOFF is delighted to unveil StoryPhones, a magical ride to a whole new world of audio fun for listeners of all ages. StoryPhones is an independent device offering screen-free entertainment that doesn’t need to connect to any other device for playback. It’s able to store and play audio content at any time. An entertaining way to boost creativity and decrease screen time.

StoryPhones is excited to be collaborating with Disney for the launch. Disney offers an iconic collection of delightful stories, and endearing characters that children can discover or rediscover and fall in love with all over again through StoryPhones. Stories available will include many of Disney’s most beloved characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, The Little Mermaid, Frozen, Lion King, Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story, The Incredibles, Monsters Inc., and more.

StoryPhones are the first smart, portable wireless audio entertainment device for children combining high-performance headphones with an internet-connected content player. Access stories by simply popping a StoryShield disc into the StoryPhones. It will then automatically download the story into the headphone’s memory and start playing. After the initial download, it will play the content independent of any network or other device. The content is suitable for children aged 3 and up and educates with audio stories, music and more.

StoryPhones also offer the option of recording personalized stories, in a loved one’s voice, through the mobile app, creating a customized StoryShield called PlayShield. This way, users can record family stories and share the ones that shaped an individual’s life with generations to come.

A StoryShield, aptly named ZenShield, contains relaxing audio profiles to help overstimulated kids calm down, relax and even sleep. The shield includes a collection of pink noises, from piano to ocean waves, from rain drops to the original and exclusive RoRo Sound.

MyFirstTech – get 10% commission on sales by signing up to their affiliate scheme here

myFirst Camera Insta Wi – available from MyFirstTech for £129 – aged 7-13 years

See the excitement on your kid’s face when they get a printout in 10 seconds on what they have captured. As the camera is using thermal fast print technology, photos will be printed in black and white at the quickest speed.

myFirst Camera Insta Wi comes with a new feature that allows you to create and print labels in different sizes with various templates of patterns, symbols, and icons. You can adjust the size of the icon, enter text, change the font type, add on border style, and much more.

This camera does it all – film video, take pictures, and snap selfies. With the handy lens switcher, you don’t even need to turn the camera around. Picture quality is guaranteed with a 16MP digital camera plus rear and wide-angle selfie lens.

Insta Wi is much smaller in size compared with other label printers. With filters and frames pre-installed in the camera, kids can snap and print cute and interesting photos or stickers to create photo albums, name tags, scrapbooks, etc. At £109 this super-cute camera is fantastic value for money.

Key Features:
• 12MP digital camera with a front and rear selfie lens
• Inkless thermal instant printing in 10 seconds
• Wireless transfer of photos
• Dedicated mobile application for label editing/creation that can be downloaded in both Google Play and App Store.
• Customised label creation
• Handy lens switcher for video creation, taking pictures, and snapping selfies
• Built-in rechargeable battery
• Easily connected to a laptop to print photos in colour

MyFirst Fone RS1 – available from MyFirstTech for £206

myFirst Fone R1s is a 4G music smartwatch phone for children and it much cheaper than purchasing a fragile Android or iPhone. In essence, it functions as a phone, GPS, and activity tracker all in one.
Parents adore this watch because it allows them to let their kids be more independent while still keeping track of where they are and allowing for immediate access to the SOS button for emergencies. The watch face can be personalised by the kids using preset wallpaper options or by using a selfie image.
The watch also has a IP68 waterproof rating and raised bezel around the watch face to protect the watch if it drops. Our watch has a class mode that prevents the kids from using other functions while in the classroom. They can also set alarms to wake them up and make custom reminders to help them remember things.
There are 8 various colours of straps available, and the straps can be switched out to suit the child’s personal taste. The heart rate monitor warns them to slow down if they are in any way overdoing it, and the step counter encourages them to be more active and hence much healthier.
myFirst Fone R1s is a perfect match with myFirst Headphones BC Wireless & myFirst Headphones BC Wireless Lite as the children are able to enjoy listening to their favourite tracks anytime, anywhere. This watch excels in functionality and is a winner.
Key Features:
• 4G voice/data call, video call and send messages.
• Real time GPS tracking with one touch SOS.
• Personalised reminder/alarm and preset texts for speed of response.
• Customisable watch face with fun animated wallpaper- preset wallpaper options or use own selfie pictures.
• Heart rate monitoring with high heart rate alert.
• Minimise distraction with class mode.
• MP3 on the go with more music and storage.
• IP68 waterproof rating.
• Perfect Match With myFirst Headphones BC Wireless & myFirst Headphones BC Wireless Lite.
• Interchangeable strap comes in 8 different colours, mix and match to fit your style and preference.

The STEM CLUB Subscription Box – from the ENGINO® website with a choice of purchase options – £29.99 per month billed monthly, £24.99 per month billed bi-annually or £19.99 per month billed annually.

The new STEM CLUB subscription box is designed to teach children of all ages basic science principles whilst also improving motor and cognitive skills. The cumulative subscription box can be delivered each month to each excited child and contains two models to construct, a story and activity book, a progress poster and a board game which builds over the months. A progressive learning experience is achieved through a gradually developing theme which the STEM CLUB Subscription Box delivers, combining ENGINO®’s award-winning physical toys and e-learning programs. Subscribers can choose one of the plans and receive monthly, delivered to the doorstep, an exclusive ENGINO® set, designed by experts to enable the development of unique models and hands-on STEM activities for little ones to enjoy.
The Junior Engineers box is designed especially for children aged 3 – 6 years old. Children of these ages have specific characteristics in being extremely active, having a short attention span, lower control of small muscles in the fingers and are still developing hand-eye coordination. This STEM Club Subscription Box has been designed to boost developing motor skills, whilst teaching about the world around them.
This is achieved by the Qboidz building system of ENGINO®, used for the Junior Engineers’ models, which is a patented system that utilizes new technologies to allow children to connect blocks in all directions of the 3D space. This teaches basic science principles, suitable for the appropriate age and level of understanding, while building ENGINO® models and reading each topic’s theory. Two ENGINO® models relating to the learning objective of the month are included in each STEM Club Subscription Box. A child’s motor and cognitive skills are improved through fun, educational activities, carefully designed to improve these skills. Self-esteem is also enhanced while building models using the step-by-step instructions and special stickers reward achievement. But, most importantly, children have fun whilst learning key skills which can be utilised in later life and in chosen careers. Each subscription box also includes new puzzle pieces each month to expand the board game for endless hour of fun.

Discovering STEM Newton’s Law Construction Set ( 9 years+) – available from Amazon for £34.99

The Newton’s Law Construction set is aimed at kids aged 9-16+ and teaches all about Newton’s laws of motion which are the basis of classical mechanics that still describe most everyday life situations. Children learn about inertia, kinetic and potential energy, whilst building working models such as a ballistic catapult, a crash test car and a balloon-powered plane.
There are 8 models in the box with easy to follow instructions, and detailed explanations of the different scientific principles applied. It incorporates experimental activities for hand-on learning. There is also a quiz section to challenge the newly acquired knowledge!
Engino also have an interactive 3D building app, allowing children to build in virtual reality.
The Engino STEM toys are made of environmentally friendly, toxin-free plastic and are made to last, guaranteeing years of educational play.

ENGINO – Discovering STEM Mechanics Cams & Cranks – available from Amazon for £29.99 8 years plus
H
Engino, one of the fastest growing companies in the STEM field, brings complex concepts into clear focus for budding engineers and scientists, with award winning components and step by step illustrated assembly instructions.
This set aimed at budding engineers up to adult, teaches about transmitting power using Cams and Cranks and converting reciprocal linear motion.
There are 8 working models such as a sewing machine, stationary crane, flapping eagle to name a few.
There is an accompanying manual which includes 10 pages of theory and facts, a 2 page quiz and 3 pages of experimental activities illustrating the uses of Cams and Cranks. There are also 15 pages of step by step 3D rendered illustrations, which are also illustrated online at Engino’s website or using the Engino 3D app, downloadable free for Android or Apple iOS.

Creative Engineering Maker Junior 10 Models Set – Available from Amazon for £22.93

Includes STEM Activities (Colouring & Numbers Learning), Stackable Building Blocks, For Ages 3 +
A storytelling adventure where little learners discover what their favourite animals look like while keeping busy with building, colouring and number learning activities.
STEM SKILLS Little builders get hours of creative play to improve hand-eye coordination and spatial thinking, with our colourful, easy-to-handle blocks, rods and connectors.
EASY TO FOLLOW This creative building kit combines print & online instructions to build 10 engineering toy models including an Elephant, a Giraffe, a spaceship and many more! It can be stored easily in its plastic tub when done!
ENGINO TOYS let children practice STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) through Real life and VR with an interactive 3D application. For a freestyle creative play. Compatible with other Engino and Environmentally friendly toxin-free plastic.

HALF OF COUPLES SET TO LOSE TWO HOURS OF SLEEP THIS VALENTINE’S DAY – BUT ITS NOT AS ROMANTIC AS YOU THINK!
• Around one in six Brits will spend the night on the sofa or in the spare room this Valentine’s Day
• More than half the nation misses out on sleep because of their partner’s tossing and turning in the night
• Sleep experts at Silentnight share their tips for keeping the peace and romance if you have a fidgety partner

Ahead of Valentine’s Day national research has revealed the scale of sleep issues that British couples face when sharing a bed with their partner, and how this might make for a not so romantic night.
The study, conducted by Silentnight, found more than half of the nation’s love birds (55%) miss out on sleep every night because of their partner’s fidgeting between the sheets.
And it’s predicted that around one in six people in a relationship (17%) will resort to the sofa or spare room to get away from their other half’s nightmare sleep habits on February 14th this year.
To help long-suffering partners achieve sound sleep, the sleep experts at Silentnight have shared their top tips for sound sleep when sharing a bed.
From keeping comfortable to maintaining a routine and getting to know your partner’s habits, there are several techniques you can employ to help get that all-important shut-eye.
The advice comes after Silentnight’s research found Brits miss out on around two hours of sleep every night due to their partner’s tossing and turning, which over a prolonged period of time could have an impact on relationships.
Reasons for lost sleep include temperature, with one in five Brits (25%) admitting the struggle to keep warm at night keeps them up, cost of living pressures (11%) worries about work (10%) and not having a comfortable mattress or bed (8%).
To help couples find their perfect sleeping rythym this Valentine’s Day, Silentnight’s Sleep Expert Hannah Shore has shared some simple tips to follow:

1. SOLO SLEEPING MIGHT BE RIGHT FOR YOU
Don’t be afraid to sleep in separate beds, more couples do it than you might think – it’s completely normal. We all sleep in our own unique way and some people simply can’t share a space due to their specific night-time habits.
Prioritising your sleep will improve your well-being, helping you feel happier, increasingly energetic and more present throughout the day. A lack of sleep can leave you irritable, emotional and grumpy – leaving us to take those emotions out on others.
Sleeping in separate beds might just be the best thing for your relationship!

2. HONE YOUR PRE-SLEEP RITUALS
Don’t let the pressures of sharing a bed take their toll – the key to quality sleep is a peaceful wind-down routine that’ll keep you calm and ready to conquer the night ahead.
Get in the mood by having a pre-bedtime ritual. This could include reading, meditating or listening to soothing music, all of which help to promote a sense of calm and relaxation for a comfortable and restful sleep.

3. UNDERSTAND YOUR ENVIRONMENT
One of the keys to sound sleep is understanding the needs for both you and your partner – not everyone sleeps the same. You need to talk with your partner and understand what each other needs from their sleeping environment.
Then you can create a night-time environment that feels secure and comfortable. Invest in cosy quilted throws and additional pillows to maximise your chances at a great night’s sleep (or create a barrier between you and your partner if their pesky sleeping habits become too much!).

4. OPTIMISE YOUR ENVIRONMENT
If you’re someone who likes to sprawl out in bed, you may want to consider getting a bigger bed (a standard double sized bed leaves each sleeper with the same room as a child’s cot!). A king-size bed will give you extra space in both length and width and may cut out arguments over who’s hogging the bed!
Also take a look at what your mattress is made out of. Silentnight’s Miracoil mattressesare designed to reduce partner disturbance. By using a continuous coil running head to toe on the mattress (instead of left to right), we can reduce the amount of movement transferring across the mattress.

5. GET THOSE CUDDLES IN
It’s Valentine’s Day so why not cuddle before bed? Not everyone enjoys cuddling, but it can in some cases lead to improved sleep and wellbeing. It can release serotonin, the happy hormone, which relieves stress and improves overall health and well-being.
So, this February 14th, try and set enough time aside to cuddle before both of you are ready to go to sleep.

SWEET CAROLINE BY NEIL DIAMOND CROWNED BRITAIN’S FAVOURITE KARAOKE SONG

• We Will Rock You by Queen and ABBA’s Dancing Queen round off the top three
• ‘The Masked Singer’ live shows coming to all three Butlin’s resorts for 2023
• The home of entertainment launches competition to give one lucky family a VIP break

Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond has been crowned the nation’s ultimate karaoke tune, following new nationwide research from Butlin’s, the home of entertainment.

Nearly half of UK adults (46%) belt out their favourite karaoke hits at least once a month, with sing-along classics, We Will Rock You by Queen and ABBA’s Dancing Queen, placing second and third in the ultimate top three list, according to the research.

The research was commissioned by Butlin’s to celebrate the start of the new ‘The Masked Singer’ live shows, which will be coming to its Skegness, Bognor Regis and Minehead resorts this half term.

The musical guessing extravaganza is a new addition to the already incredible entertainment line-up at Butlin’s, cementing its position as the home of entertainment.

When it comes to live shows, Butlin’s new study revealed that Queen front man Freddie Mercury is the nation’s number one live musical performer of all time, while ABBA were featured again as the ultimate artist to sing while performing karaoke.

What’s more, data revealed that singing is good for wellbeing, with almost half of Brits (47%) saying that singing out loud makes them feel good and boosts their mood, while over a third of the nation (36%) get on the mic while on holiday.

Each of ‘The Masked Singer’ live shows at Butlin’s will be hosted by a celebrity presenter, and like the renowned TV show, the best bit will be saved until the end when two celebrity performers are unmasked.

Brilliant images show characters exploring their new home ahead of the live shows. With elaborate costumes, head-scratching clues, and musical mayhem, the showstopping performances will be sure have fans chanting ‘Take it off!’.

Mike Godolphin, Entertainment Director at Butlin’s, said: “We can’t wait to have The Masked Singer performing live at our resorts, and we’re confident that families will love the catchy songs and entertaining performances from the hit series.

“The world’s biggest entertainment show is coming to Butlin’s, and as the home of entertainment we’ve pulled out all the stops to ensure that guests have a holiday to remember. Our new research has confirmed what we suspected all along; Brits love a sing-along and we can’t wait to see the audience belting out their favourite tunes whilst watching The Masked Singer live.”

To treat a nation of songbirds and celebrate the iconic characters heading to Butlin’s, the home of entertainment is launching a competition giving one lucky family the ultimate VIP The Masked Singer experience at a Butlin’s resort of their choice.

The winners will receive a Butlin’s break (to watch the show live in action), as well as the opportunity to sit on the iconic judging panel and be front and centre when the unmasking takes place, and more!

Applications open on February 6th and will run until February 27th. To enter, simply head to www.butlins.com/competitions

THE UK’S TOP 5 KARAOKE SONGS

1. Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond
2. We Will Rock You by Queen
3. Dancing Queen by ABBA
4. Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen
5. Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey

At lot of photographers (myself included) offer gift certificates for photoshoots. This is a great idea for Valentine’s Day or Galantines day as it can be tailored to your situation. You could arrange a romantic photoshoot or a fun and silly that represents your friendship.

These can then be turned into lasting memories or content for your Instagram.

www.mattfphotography.com.au/

Great Valentine’s idea.

“First up: the classic heart-shaped box of chocolates. It’s a go-to for many people and there’s no doubt why—chocolate is a beautiful thing. But if you’re looking for something a little different this year, try out some new flavors or even just switch up where you get them from. You can also choose to give your chocolates out in a fun way—like through an advent calendar or in mini boxes that look like hearts! One idea that would be perfect for any occasion is to make your own custom jewelry! You could use beads and charms to create jewelry with special meaning behind it—maybe they’re memories from your relationship or maybe they’re something fun that reminds you of when you started dating. You can also add things like birthstones or charms from each other’s favorite hobbies or interests so that it has more meaning than just being a generic gift idea.”

Logan Young
allthedifferences.com/about/

This valentine’s day celebrate the dog lovers in your life with a leash and collar set from Wolf & I Co. Range of matching options available online now at 40% off. Use code: SAVE40 to redeem. Offer ends 28.2.23. wolfandico.com.au Please be in touch if you require any further information or images.
Scented Louboutin Leather and Rose Shoe Heel Wife Valentines Gift
Handmade luxury valentines card with sexy Louboutin watercolour and sparkles. For the shoe lover. Each Louboutin high heels valentines day card is printed with watercolour painted high heeled shoes – a pair of black louboutin heels with red sole – then handmade with artificial foliage and individually handmade velvet everlasting red roses, satin bows, diamantes & sparkle. Cards are scented with Louboutin leather and rose.
View product on company website: theluxeco.co.uk/products/sexy-louboutin-heel-shoe-scented-valentines-card
Price: £45

Stockist information: www.theluxeco.co.uk

No longer have to decide between giving the loving gift of a soft toy or roses
Although real flowers smell great and can be a thoughtful gift, they don’t take long to spoil. Before long, the water they are left it smells off and the petals wilt, leaving a sad mess on the kitchen top.

The great thing about a gift like Roseal CuteBear is that it lasts forever. The quality roses stay in place so even after weeks, months, and years, the recipient will be able to look at their bear made out of roses and smile.

So, if you are looking for the perfect anniversary gift, an anniversary present that is unique and will last a long time, you can join the other thoughtful people and send a Roseal CuteBear.

REVEALED: Lisbon is the most romantic capital city in Europe

• New research reveals Lisbon in Portugal, as the most romantic capital city in Europe, with the most romantic restaurants and hotels in the capital.
• Monaco is the second most romantic capital city in Europe, with the highest number of restaurants per million people in the rankings.
• The third most romantic capital city in Europe is Paris, France.

New research has revealed which capital cities in Europe are the most romantic as the run-up to Valentine’s Day approaches by analysing Trip Advisor for the number of romantic restaurants and hotels in each city.

The European-based yacht charter group Catamaran Charter Croatia looked at each capital city in Europe and analysed Trip Advisor data on the number of romantic restaurants and hotels per million people in each city.

Lisbon takes the top spot in the rankings as the most romantic capital city in Europe to visit on Valentine’s Day. Despite having the ninth smallest area, the city sweeps across 100 square kilometres and has a population of 545,923. There are 588 romantic restaurants in the city, meaning there are 1,077 restaurants per million people, alongside 152 romantic hotels resulting in 278 hotels per million people. Therefore, Lisbon has the highest ratio of restaurants and hotels per million people in the city.

Monaco is Europe’s second most romantic capital city to visit on Valentine’s Day, with 54 romantic restaurants and six romantic hotels. The city has the second-smallest area in the rankings spanning only 2.1 square kilometres and has a population of just over 36,686. Per million people, there are 1,472 romantic restaurants and 164 hotels, resulting in Monaco placing second.

Paris, France, comes in strong as the third most romantic city, with a population of 2,139,907 people, 1,387 romantic restaurants and 542 romantic hotels. This equates to there being 648 restaurants and 253 hotels per million people. The city stretches over 105 square kilometres.

In fourth place is San Marino, with a population of 33,660; the city has 18 romantic restaurants and 14 romantic hotels across 61.2 square kilometres, meaning there are 535 restaurants and 416 hotels per million people.

Following behind in fifth place is Rome, Italy, with a population of 2,761,632; Rome has 1,291 romantic restaurants and 1,371 romantic hotels in total across an area of 1,285 square kilometres, resulting in 467 romantic restaurants and 496 romantic hotels per million people, putting Rome in fifth place.

Sixth place goes to Andorra la Vella, Andorra, which has a population of 22,886 and is spread across 12 kilometres squared. The city is home to 23 romantic restaurants and three romantic hotels, meaning there are 1,005 restaurants and 131 hotels per million people.

Amsterdam, Netherlands, takes seventh place with a population of 905,234 people and stretches across 219 square kilometres in area. There are 486 romantic restaurants in the city and 155 romantic hotels, which means there are 537 restaurants and 171 hotels per million people, securing seventh place.

In eighth place is Athens, Greece, which has 367 romantic restaurants and 63 romantic hotels across its area of 39 square kilometres. The population of Athens sits at 637,798, meaning that there are 575 restaurants and 99 hotels per million people in the city.

Prague, Czechia, ranks ninth in the rankings, spreading across 496 square kilometres. The city’s population sits at 1,352,374 people, and with 399 romantic restaurants and 246 romantic hotels in the city, there are 295 restaurants and 182 hotels per million people.

In tenth place is Reykjavik, Iceland, which has a population of 135,688 people meaning there are 420 restaurants and 182 hotels per million people. Reykavik is spread across 273 square kilometres, and there are 57 romantic restaurants and 125 romantic hotels, placing the city in tenth position.

London, United Kingdom, has the highest number of romantic restaurants overall, and Rome, Italy, has the highest number of romantic hotels in the rankings.

Paris, France, has the highest number of Michelin-star restaurants, with 88 in total across the capital city, nine of which have been awarded three stars.

Rome, Italy, has the highest number of romantic hotels, which are rated four plus stars, currently sitting at 650 across the city.

The Most Romantic Capital Cities in Europe

Ranking Country / City City Population No. of Restaurants No. of Romantic Restaurants per million people No. of Romantic Hotels No. of Hotels per million people
1 Portugal Lisbon 545,923 588 1,077 152 278
2 Monaco Monaco 36,686 54 1,472 6 164
3 France Paris 2,139,907 1,387 648 542 253
4 San Marino San Marino 33,660 18 535 14 416
5 Italy Rome 2,761,632 1,291 467 1,371 496
6 Andorra Andorra la Vella 22,886 23 1,005 3 131
7 Netherlands Amsterdam 905,234 486 537 155 171
8 Greece Athens 637,798 367 575 63 99
9 Czechia Prague 1,352,374 399 295 246 182
10 Iceland Reykjavik 135,688 57 420 17 125

A spokesperson for Catamaran Charter Croatia commented:

“The fact that there is such a high number of romantic restaurants and hotels in smaller populated cities just shows how many capital cities can profit from being a go-to place for a romantic getaway.

“European countries thrive during celebrations, especially when it comes to Valentine’s Day, which is why this study is exciting to see which capital cities come out on top just in time for the most romantic day of the year.”

HYPER KARTING AND URBAN SWAN TEAM UP FOR AN EXCLUSIVE VALENTINE’S OFFER

Set the alarm, romantic Valentine’s dates make a return in 2023 after two years of restrictions and lockdowns. Dating masterminds Urban Swan and premiere Sydney racing venue Hyper Karting have curated a unique Valentine’s experience for couples looking for a little thrill with a competitive edge on their date this year.

15 couples will have the opportunity to go head-to-head on Hyper Karting’s 410m indoor racing track across two heats and two finals for a chance to claim the Valentine’s glory and also win some incredible prizes. Partnering with Urban Swan to create an exclusive Valentine’s Date package, couples Valentine’s races are happening on Sunday, 12 February from 2pm-4pm and on Tuesday, 14 February from 5pm – 8:30pm, the winning couples will progress to the top level where they’ll compete to pocket some exciting prizes.

In addition to the race, after you zoom past competitor couples, daters will also enjoy exclusive Valentine’s sweet treats, a kissing booth, a Love Lounge and a romantic podium perfect for that pre-win selfie.

Located on Level 5 of Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter car park, Hyper Karting is within walking distance to numerous restaurants and other popular entertainment spots, so there is lots to do before and after you race.

Hyper Karting’s 410-metre-long track is the longest indoor racing track in Australia, consisting of hairpin turns, loops and straights. Just like in the Formula 1, each kart features a boost button, which, when activated gives a 10% power boost, will let you speed past rival racers.

The Hyper Karting team have set their sights on creating the most enjoyable karting experience in Australia, bringing speed, exhilaration and excitement for a karting experience like no other.

Offering more than just a thrill, the environmentally friendly, all electric Hyper Karts are expertly built with speed and safety in mind.

So what are you waiting for, book your couples karting experience for Valentine’s Day now at Urban Swan and prepare for an adrenaline filled Valentine’s day (centred around your love for one another of course).

The Urban Swan X Hyper Karting Valentine’s Day experience costs $55.

What’s included:

● Compete against your partner and other couples in a thrill-seeking karting experience
● Enjoy two 15 min races, with the top seven couples moving forward into the winning heat for the top prizes
● Don’t worry! The bottom eight couples move into the second heat where you will have a second chance at redemption!
● Prizes:
○ 1st place top heat = $100 Urban Swan Voucher
○ 2nd place top heat = $100 Hyper Karting Voucher
○ 1st place bottom heat = $50 Urban Swan Voucher
○ 2nd place bottom heat = $50 Hyper Karting Voucher

Please visit hyperkarting.com.au and follow on Instagram

PROTECTING HIS SKIN IS THE WAY TO HIS HEART THIS VALENTINE’S DAY

Our skin is the body’s first line of defence from environmental stressors such as ultraviolet rays, pollutants, smoke, central heating, and harsh weather. More people need to be proactively protecting their skin every day, all year round, especially men who twice as likely to die of skin cancer vs. women.

So, give the gift of skin health this Valentine’s Day with Life Jacket Skin Protection, developed, and made in the UK with industry experts, the high-performance skincare and UPF 50+ apparel is stress-tested by everyday folk, professional athletes, Olympians and even, military personnel. Plus, 50p from every sale goes to Melanoma UK to support the fight against skin cancer so you will be doing good in more ways than one!

Moisturiser set: For those that need to kick start their skin protection journey

The bundle: Our bestselling moisturisers from the SPF 30 daily protection facial moisturiser to our repair moisturiser for sore skin and overnight recovery to keep you covered day and night.

• DAILY PROTECTION MOISTURISER (1x100ml): a 2-in-1 day moisturiser for better-feeling, moisturised skin and high-performance SPF 30 and UVA 5* protection added. Put on at the start of the day – every day – before heading out. The recommendation that all dermatologists universally agree on: use SPF all year round to reduce the signs of premature ageing and help prevent other forms of skin damage.
• DAILY REPAIR MOISTURISER (1x100ml): a calming and soothing moisturiser to repair the skin at the end of the day, after sport or post shave. Use at the end of the day for overnight recovery
• OTHER IMPORTANT STUFF
• Hydrating, lightweight, non-greasy, fast-absorbing
• Both products last 4-6 months when used daily on the face
• Engineered using first class ingredients and formulation technology
• Used by professional athletes because they’re lightweight, non-greasy and don’t cause stinging or burning, particularly in the eyes
• Water resistant and cruelty free
• For all skin types and clinically approved for sensitive skin
• Packaged in a neat gift box for the perfect present – all you need to do is leave a gift note and we’ll do the rest!
• YOU ALSO GET… 7-day unlimited access to the mole-checking app, SkinVision, on every order. Use the app to map, monitor and get instant feedback without leaving the house. Skin checking is just as important as daily skin protection. Upgrade to a 12m license for just £25 (a 50% saving for our customers). Read more

Price: £27
Available from: www.lifejacketskin.com

Daily Protection Set: For those that understand that protection is needed, daily

THE BUNDLE: This Daily Protection Set is designed around our recommendation for a simple and effective daily skin protection routine. Cover all basis from morning to evening with our Body Wash Bar, Face Cleansing Soap and both bestselling moisturisers. Use the SPF 30 Daily Protection Moisturiser at the start of the day and the Daily Repair Moisturiser before going to bed. The bars can be used daily whenever washing or showering.

• FACE CLEANSING BAR (1x50g with tin): A gentle face cleansing bar containing 1% salicylic acid. Designed for daily use, the cleanser exfoliates and removes dead skin cells that can build up, block your pores and cause breakouts. Smooths out uneven skin and neutralises damaging free radicals that come into contact with your skin every day. Use daily and apply moisturiser afterwards for healthy and great-feeling skin.
• BODY WASH BAR (1x50g with tin): A great-smelling daily body wash bar that forms a rich lather to clean, protect and hydrate your entire body (and hair). Eco-friendly replacement to the bottle of shower gel standing in the bathroom. High performance ingredients deliver 24H moisture by leaving a protective layer on the skin for added protection and healthy, better-feeling skin.
• DAILY PROTECTION MOISTURISER (1x100ml): a 2-in-1 day moisturiser for better-feeling, moisturised skin AND high performance SPF 30 and UVA 5* protection added. Put on at the start of the day – every day – before heading out. The recommendation that all dermatologists universally agree on: use SPF all year round to reduce the signs of premature ageing and help prevent other forms of skin damage.
• DAILY REPAIR MOISTURISER (1x100ml): a calming and soothing moisturiser to repair the skin at the end of the day, after sport or post shave. Use at the end of the day for overnight recovery
• YOU ALSO GET… 7-day unlimited access to the mole-checking app, SkinVision, on every order. Use the app to map, monitor and get instant feedback without leaving the house. Skin checking is just as important as daily skin protection. Upgrade to a 12m license for just £25 (a 50% saving for our customers).

Price: £44
Available from: www.lifejacketskin.com

Essentials Set: For those that want to cover all bases

The bundle: Cover all bases, save money, and get our daily SPF moisturiser PLUS one of our Sun Gels, in a single set

DAILY PROTECTION MOISTURISER (1x100ml): a 2-in-1 day moisturiser for better-feeling, moisturised skin and high performance SPF 30 and UVA 5* protection added. Put on at the start of the day – every day – before heading out. The recommendation that all dermatologists universally agree on: use SPF all year round to reduce the signs of premature ageing and help prevent other forms of skin damage.
• SPF 30 or 50+ SUN GEL (1x100ml): We’ve re-designed sunscreen and made lightweight, non-greasy Sun Gels for high performance, UVA 5* protection during times of sustained skin exposure outside – select between SPF 30 or 50+
• OTHER IMPORTANT STUFF
• Hydrating, lightweight, non-greasy, fast-absorbing
• The moisturiser lasts 4-6 months when used daily on the face
• Engineered using first class ingredients and formulation technology
• Used by professional athletes because they’re lightweight, non-greasy and don’t cause stinging or burning, particularly in the eyes
• Water resistant and cruelty free
• For all skin types and clinically approved for sensitive skin
• Packaged in a neat gift box for the perfect present – all you need to do is leave a gift note and we’ll do the rest!
• YOU ALSO GET… 7-day unlimited access to the mole-checking app, SkinVision, on every order. Use the app to map, monitor and get instant feedback without leaving the house. Skin checking is just as important as daily skin protection. Upgrade to a 12m license for just £25 (a 50% saving for our customers). Read more

Price: £26
Available from: www.lifejacketskin.com

Weekender set: For those that love to get away and enjoy the great outdoors

The bundle: Cover all bases, save money, and buy this convenient travel pack for all your trip’s skincare needs

• DAILY PROTECTION MOISTURISER (1x100ml): a 2-in-1 day moisturiser for better-feeling, moisturised skin AND high-performance SPF 30 and UVA 5* protection added. Put on at the start of the day – every day – before heading out. The recommendation that all dermatologists universally agree on: use SPF all year round to reduce the signs of premature ageing and help prevent other forms of skin damage.
• DAILY REPAIR MOISTURISER (1x100ml): a calming and soothing moisturiser to repair the skin at the end of the day, after sport or post shave. Use at the end of the day for overnight recovery
• SPF 30 or 50+ SUN GEL (1x100ml): We’ve re-designed sunscreen and made lightweight, non-greasy Sun Gels for high performance, UVA 5* protection during times of sustained skin exposure outside – select between SPF 30 or 50+
• OTHER IMPORTANT STUFF
• Hydrating, lightweight, non-greasy, fast absorbing
• Both moisturisers last 4-6 months when used daily on the face
• Engineered using first class ingredients and formulation technology
• City, beach, mountain or countryside, this pack is ideal for the weekend traveller and suitable for flight carry-on luggage
• Used by professional athletes because they’re lightweight, non-greasy and don’t cause stinging or burning, particularly in the eyes
• Water resistant and cruelty free
• For all skin types and clinically approved for sensitive skin
• Packaged in a neat gift box for the perfect present – all you need to do is leave a gift note and we’ll do the rest!
• For full ingredients, see the ‘Ingredients’ tab below (by ‘Reviews’)
• YOU ALSO GET… 7-day unlimited access to the mole-checking app, SkinVision, on every order. Use the app to map, monitor and get instant feedback without leaving the house. Skin checking is just as important as daily skin protection. Upgrade to a 12m license for just £25 (a 50% saving for our customers). Read more

Cost: £39
Available from www.lifejacketskin.com

Let’s get romanTECH

Samsung’s ultimate guide to smart gifting this Valentine’s Day

LONDON, UK – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Whether you’re trying to find a gift for your tech savvy other half or looking treat yourself with something extra special, Samsung’s impressive range of devices has got you covered.

For those passionate about playlists… Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro.
RRP £219.
Available in Bora Purple, Graphite and White.

The Galaxy Buds2 Pro offer superior audio that delivers a rich, balanced sound and crystal-clear resolution, allowing users to seamlessly immerse in their favourite tracks or podcasts. Perfect for doing music tracks real justice. What’s more, with Enhanced Active Noise Cancellation and an ergonomic design for a comfortable fit, listening on the go has never been easier.

It’s time for love with the Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Series.
Galaxy Watch5 RRP: 40mm (Bluetooth): £269 | 44mm (Bluetooth): £289.
Available in Graphite, Silver and Pink Gold (40mm) and Sapphire, Graphite and Silver (44mm).
Galaxy Watch5 Pro RRP: 45mm (Bluetooth): £429.
Available in Black Titanium and Grey Titanium.

Spoil yourself or a friend with this stylish smartwatch which delivers a holistic suite of health features to manage wellness. Packed with exciting new guided workouts and group challenges that help users connect with their family and friends, to ensure they are at their best every day with the Galaxy Watch5 and Galaxy Watch5 Pro.

For the precious things in life… Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+ has you covered.
RRP £39.99.
Available in Black and Oatmeal.

For that certain someone whose items go walkabout, the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+ is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift. Why not gift the must-have travel accessory for your upcoming couples gateway to make tracking luggage easy. Simply attach and go, the Bluetooth device allows travellers to keep an eye on their luggage and valuables on the move, so there’s one less thing to worry about and more time to focus on packing the holiday essentials.

With a screen as big as your heart … the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra.
RRP £646 (128GB|8GB) £699 (256GB|8GB).
Available in Graphite, Pink Gold and Silver.

The perfect tablet for both multi-taskers and creatives alike. Whether studying, working, or connecting with your other half, the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra offers an improved video calling experience with ultra-wide front cameras, a three-microphone setup and intelligent auto-framing technology that’s seamless for calling loved ones for a catch up. It also offers revolutionary multitasking capabilities with enhanced Multi-active Windows and Samsung DeX, for safe and easy file-sharing to ensure you always keep in touch.

All products are available to purchase via www.samsung.com/uk/ and select partners.

Valentine’s Night In Gift Box. Price- £20 – Purchase here

Celebrate Valentine’s day in style! Joe & Seph’s Valentine’s Night In Gift Box features two limited-edition Valentine’s popcorn flavours, decadent White Chocolate & Raspberry Popcorn Bites, and a cheeky Valentine’s Card. This Kit contains everything you need to create a lovely night with your Valentine!

Milk Chocolate Salted Caramel Truffles. Price- £12.99 – Purchase here

Using only the finest ingredients, Joe & Seph’s truffles have been rolled and shaped into exquisite spheres of bliss. Their award-winning salted caramel sauce, encased in a smooth Belgian chocolate shell and lightly dusted with cocoa powder, promises a moment of pure indulgence. Available in two decadent flavours: Milk Chocolate Salted Caramel Truffles and Dark Chocolate Caramel Truffles, they are the latest additions to our all-year-round gifting range.

White Chocolate & Strawberry Popcorn. Price – £4 – Purchase here

Gift your loved one the finest air popped popcorn, topped with Rich Belgian White Chocolate and a fruity Strawberry finish.

Pamper Night Gift Box. Price- £25 – Purchase here

Send your special someone a Pamper Night Gift Box, filled with the most luxurious gourmet goodies sure to help them relax and recharge during their next night in! Hand packed with love in Joe & Seph’s signature gold gift box.

Valentine’s Day Gourmet Popcorn Selection Box. Price – £15. Purchase here

Show your love just how amazing you think they are with our limited-edition Valentine’s Day Selection Box. Featuring 6 lovely gourmet popcorn snack packs, including: 2 x Rose Chocolate, 2 x Caramel, Macchiato & Whisky and 2 x White Chocolate & Strawberry.

All Joe & Seph’s popcorn is handmade and air-popped in Great Britain by Joseph and his team of pastry chefs making it the perfect gift for your popcorn loving valentine!!

Gourmet Hamper For Him. Price £70. Purchase here

Need a gift for the special man in your life? Our Gourmet Hamper For Him will have him grinning from ear to ear!

Featuring a luxury wicker basket filled to the brim with gourmet popcorn treats, plus a tub of Whittard of Chelsea Luxury Hot Chocolate, it’s nothing short of a mighty impressive present.

Gift Dimensions: L:360 x W:260 x H150 mm

Gourmet Hamper for Her. Price £70. Purchase here

Want to be in her good books? Our deluxe Gourmet Hamper will do the trick!

Inside, your lucky lady will find a wide selection of popcorn (including Pina Colada flavour by Michel & Alain Roux) and a tub of Whittard of Chelsea Berry Burst Tea. Delicious!

This carefully curated hamper is ever-so indulgent and perfect for showing the lucky lady in your life just how special she really is!

Gift Dimensions: L:360 x W260 x H150mm

A PICTURESQUE ROMANTIC WEEKEND GETAWAY TO THE BONNY ISLE OF SKYE
WITH SONAS HOTEL COLLECTION

Sonas Hotel Collection’s luxurious family-run hotels on the Isle of Skye provide the perfect boutique bolthole for an indulgent getaway to the romantic west coast of Scotland this February.

Skeabost House Hotel, Duisdale House Hotel and Toravaig House Hotel are located on one of the world’s most beautiful islands in the Scottish Highlands, providing the picture-perfect backdrop for wild winter beach walks, dramatic landscapes and breath-taking mountain views. The elegantly designed hotels all feature chic cosy bedrooms, decadent bathrooms, roaring fireplaces, and delicious local dishes, served with a generous helping of the best Highland hospitality making them the ideal place to enjoy a romantic weekend away – including the family pooch.

Until 3 April, Sonas Hotel Collection is offering couples (and their dogs) the chance to enjoy a two-night ‘Misty Isle’ Spring Break at Skeabost House Hotel and Duisdale House Hotel from only £369 per package. For couples bringing the family pet, Skeabost House Hotel and Duisdale House Hotel are both dog-friendly accommodation and until 3 April 2023 are allowing dogs to stay for free at both properties.

Snuggle up on a Two-Night ‘Misty Isle’ Spring Break at Sonas Hotel Collection – from £369 per package
The ‘Misty Isle’ Spring Break package includes two nights’ accommodation at Skeabost House Hotel and Duisdale House Hotel, delicious Scottish breakfast served on both mornings, a two-course dinner for two people on the first night of your stay, complimentary welcome drink for two and free Wi-Fi. Package prices start from £369 per couple at Duisdale House Hotel and from £389 per couple at Skeabost House Hotel. Packages are available until 3rd April 2023 and based on two people sharing a standard room on a minimum two-night stay. For further details or to book, visit www.skyehotel.co.uk. For further details on the Sonas Hotel Collection dog policy and offer visit https://skyehotel.co.uk/dogs-go-free-isle-of-skye/.

Discover more about Sonas Hotel Collection here – https://skyehotel.co.uk/

With Valentine’s day just around the corner, 44 Foods have got you covered.

44 Foods and chef partner James Strawbridge have curated all you need to show some love to you, yours truly and the planet. With two Valentine’s Dinner bundles – containing fairly sourced and hand-curated ingredients too delicious to miss!

For those looking to keep it simple, 44 Foods are offering a marvellous range of produce available in fully customisable bundles – from a create-your-own Valentine’s Meal for Two Bundle, to a Sweet Treats Bundle, both likely to captivate and wow this Valentine’s.

There’s something for everyone with 44 Foods, take a look at just some of the delicious bundles on offer this Valentine’s and let me know if I can get you any samples of these or if you need any more info at all, including high-res imagery.

LINDT LINDOR LAUNCHES ‘BREAK FOR EMERGENCY BLISS’ CAMPAIGN, IN TIME FOR VALENTINE’S

• Emergency boxes to pop up in London, Bluewater Kent, and Leeds this Valentine’s Day (14th February), for members of the public to try the new LINDOR Blood Orange flavour

• One of the emergency boxes will contain a very special surprise, a romantic 2-person all-inclusive getaway to Sicily, the land of the new flavour’s origins

This Valentine’s Day, Lindt is encouraging consumers to try its newly launched LINDOR Blood Orange truffles with a ‘Break for Emergency Bliss’ campaign.

Connecting the dots between the world’s most romantic day, and this desire for little moments of bliss, Lindt LINDOR will be placing a selection of ‘Break for Emergency Bliss’ boxes in London, Bluewater Kent, and Leeds, saving the day for those who have left sourcing the perfect gift to the last-minute.

These boxes will contain the new delicious LINDOR Blood Orange truffles and a beautiful red LINDOR Heart box with irresistibly smooth melting Milk truffles, with one of the boxes also containing a special surprise, a romantic 2-person, all-inclusive holiday to Sicily.

Plant-Based Treats for a Gluten-Free Vegan Valentines

Chocolate – the perfect Valentine’s treat, unless of course a loved one is lactose intolerant, suffers from Coeliac disease or is simply following a vegan diet!

Coeliac disease affects at least 1 in 100 people in the UK and 8% are lactose intolerant but Livia’s deliciously indulgent vegan snacks contain only 100% natural, plant-based ingredients.

Free from gluten, dairy, sugar, palm oil and preservatives, they are ideal pillow treats. This scrumptious snack range provides a healthier, free-from alternative to normal, standard chocolate treats for adults and children alike.
I have attached a release and images.

FOOD IS LOVE! BRITS GO BARKING MAD FOR DOG VALENTINE’S CELEBRATIONS, SPARKING A MUST HAVE FOR DOG LOVERS… VALENTINE’S CARDS FOR YOUR POOCH

• Olivia Attwood, and her rescue dog Lola, unveil collection of dogs’ Valentine’s Day cards
• Valentine’s cards unveiled as new research shows that Brits plan to spoil their beloved dogs more than ever this February
• Collection launched by Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs

BRITISH dog owners are set to spend a whopping £300m* on celebrating Valentine’s Day with the four-legged love of their life.

Pooch parents spend an average of £30 a piece on presents for their dog, rising to £71 in Northern Ireland, where purchases include a new doggy outfit to celebrate.

Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs conducted the research to celebrate the launch of its new Healthy Heart product range, and these findings inspired the brand to celebrate dog owners’ love of showering their pets with gifts during this season of love by launching…a bespoke collection of Valentine’s cards designed for dogs.

The collection was created in partnership with pet art brand, Purr and Mutt, and TV star, Olivia Attwood. Each of the cards will be available to buy online for just £1, with every penny collected being donated to Butcher’s Nourish Every Dog programme.

The programme supports dog homes, shelters, and rescue charities nationwide. Since starting the #NourishEveryDog campaign just three years ago, over 2 million meals have been donated to over 250 charities.

The idea for cards was inspired by how much the country loves to display pooch pictures around the home; the average dog owning household has eight pictures of their dog on display, and 1 in 20 has a whopping 30.

A special extra card features Olivia’s rescue dog Lola, who was sat alongside the TV presenter and reality star at the design session.

Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs research around British pet owners and Valentine’s Day also found that:

• Men typically spend £8 more than women on dog Valentine’s celebrations – and more men than women describe their dog as their ‘baby’
• Most of those surveyed would rather have a long walk with their dog than they would a minibreak with their partner
• A third of those who enjoy a regular date night make sure their dog is included in their plans, with seven per cent of British couples even meeting via a dog walks!

Commenting on the partnership with Butcher’s, Olivia Attwood, said: “My dogs are absolutely the centre of my daily life, so it’s no surprise that pet owners are going wild in the aisles to celebrate the love they have for their dogs during the season of love. Creating a charity collection of Valentine’s Day cards, with my gorgeous Lola as one of the options you can buy, was so much fun and will help to support so many dogs in need.”

The research also found that a long and healthy life is the gift dog owners would most want for their animal companions, and that two thirds seek a food that actively supports their dog’s heart health.

Natasha Bryant, Senior Brand Manager for Butcher’s, said: “Just like us, it’s evident that food is love when it comes to our dogs. We had such fun creating this card collection and are proud that all funds collected will help dogs in need across Britain via our Nourish Every Dog charity partners – because every dog deserves naturally, nourishing food, a happy home and to be loved.

“Our consumer research found that 75 per cent of dog owners are worried about their pet’s health and that a fifth are actively worried every day. Luckily, it’s easier than ever to help maintain optimum health for our dogs thanks to the development of nutritious food ranges such as Butcher’s Healthy Heart.

“This February, it’s great to see that Brits aren’t just showing their love via fun things like treats, cards and personalised tins. Two thirds are already taking steps to ensure their dog’s heart is as healthy as possible.”

Pick your pooch’s Valentine’s Day card, and support dog homes, shelters and rescue charities nationwide, by checking out the Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs Healthy Heart collection at Purr and Mutt here.

Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs Healthy Heart recipes are vet recommended and carefully created by the brand’s inhouse nutritionist. Every recipe has the right amount of naturally active ingredients to keep our beloved four-legged friends healthy and happy. These 100 per cent complete and balanced, grain free recipes contain a combination of key ingredients to support a healthy heart and help dogs thrive.

The UK’s most loved tanning brand, with one bottle sold every 20 seconds in the UK, St. Moriz, introduce a new game changing product – St. Moriz Advanced Luxury Crème Whipped Mousse.

Designed to wrap you up in velvety soft consistency that leaves a powdery satin finish before washing off to reveal a super sun-kissed glow. It contains ingredients such as Vitamin E and Rosehip Oil that will help moisturise the skin, as well as Hyaluronic Acid that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Exclusively available to purchase in Boots for £9.99.

PRETTY WOMAN OFFICIALLY THE MOST ROMANTIC MOVIE OF ALL TIME
• COMEDY IS THE UK’S FAVOURITE FILM GENRE FOR A FIRST DATE
• LOVE ACTUALLY IS THE UK’S FAVOURITE ROM-COM
• JULIA ROBERTS IS THE NATION’S FAVOURITE ACTRESS FROM A ROMANTIC FILM

Pretty Woman has been named the most romantic movie of all time, according to new national research revealed today1.

The 1990 classic starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere took 17% of the vote, narrowly beating out competition from ‘80s favourite Dirty Dancing (16%) and James Cameron’s epic Titanic (15%), according to the nationwide study carried out by Showcase Cinemas.

The survey, which was commissioned to celebrate Valentine’s Day, also revealed Julia Roberts is the nation’s favourite actress in a romantic film (13%), while Hugh Grant (9%) is the UK’s favourite romantic actor.

There was another win for Hugh Grant, as more than one in five named Christmas favourite Love Actually (22%) as the greatest rom-com of all time.

In fact, the British actor has made himself synonymous with romantic comedies over the years, starring in four of the top five rom coms. Bridget Jones’s Diary (21%) followed Love Actually, with Notting Hill (16%), Four Weddings and a Funeral (15%) and The Holiday (12%) make the top five.

In the battle for the most romantic movie scene of all time, the famous “I’m flying” scene featuring Rose and Jack from Titanic landed in number one spot, taking 15% of the vote.

Elsewhere, the ‘drive-in movie’ scene from Grease was named the greatest big screen date of all time, with 1 in 10 opting for Sandy and Danny’s classic cinema date.

A Showcase Cinemas spokesperson said: “Romantic films are always a huge hit on the big screen, whether that be a fun-filled rom-com or an emotional epic romance. Our survey revealed the UK believes Pretty Woman is the most romantic film of all time, which is no short achievement in such a crowded field!

“Titanic landed in second spot, and to celebrate its 25th anniversary, we’re happy to announce we’ll be screening it in jaw dropping 3D at our cinemas nationwide from 10 February – and of course on Valentine’s Day – meaning guests can sit back and enjoy date night in front of the big screen”.

What’s more, the survey revealed that comedy movies are the UK’s favourite film genre to watch on a first date, meaning the nation prefers to have a good laugh to break the ice.

There is a generational divide when it comes to the most romantic films of all time, with 18-24-year-olds opting for Love Actually (19%) while those aged 65 and over voted for Pretty Woman (22%).

To see what’s screening in the lead up to Valentine’s Day and to book your tickets, please visit the Showcase Cinemas website: www.showcasecinemas.co.uk, and to book for Titanic in 3D, head here: www.showcasecinemas.co.uk/film-info/titanic-25th-anniversary-3d

TOP TEN MOST ROMANTIC FILMS OF ALL TIME:
1. PRETTY WOMAN (17%)
2. DIRTY DANCING (16%)
3. TITANIC (15%)
4. LOVE ACTUALLY (15%)
5. GHOST (13%)
6. THE BODYGUARD (10%)
7. NOTTING HILL (9%)
8. BRIDGET JONES’S DIARY (8%)
9. SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE (7%)
10. THE HOLIDAY (6%)

TOP FIVE ROMANTIC COMEDY FILMS OF ALL TIME:
1. LOVE ACTUALLY (22%)
2. BRIDGET JONES’S DIARY (21%)
3. NOTTING HILL (16%)
4. FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL (15%)
5. THE HOLIDAY (12%)

Love Lasts: Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s not too late to start thinking of the perfect gift for your loved one. If you’re running low on time, don’t worry. Here is a list of some last-minute ideas that are sure to make that special someone smile. These top 8 last-minute Valentine’s gift ideas are guaranteed to raise a smile.
For The Classy One: Martini Straw Glass £14.99 from ThumbsUp.com

Dress to impress with the impressive martini glass! With a unique glass straw built into the design. Shaken and not stirred! Sip on favourite martini in style and make your evening one to remember. This martini glass will be sure to make your evening a hit.
For The Sweet Ones: Vase Desk Ink Pen £8 from Kikkerlandeu.com

The perfect desk accessory is a pen that writes and holds flowers. Bring a little style to work or desk.
For Stylish Ones: Tipping Tumblers Glass Set £19.99 from ThumbsUp.com

Unwind in style with this set of 2 Tippling Tumblers, the ultimate glassware for the perfect sip. Designed to rock gently, these borosilicate glasses will keep drinks aerated, release aroma, and provide a unique experience without spilling a drop. Strong and durable, the thick walls keep your drink at the perfect temperature for longer. Perfect for whisky, wine, or any spirit, elevate your drinking experience with Tippling Tumblers.
For The Mindful One: Calming Kit £20 from Kikkerlandeu.com

Create a moment of peace with the Calming Kit. Unwind and relax and find inner calm. Includes: eye mask, ear plugs, breathing straw, and bamboo balls.
For The Love Island Fan: Mr Lovin’ Corkscrew £14.99 from ThumbsUp.com

Uncork your wine with style and ease using the Love Island Mr. Lovin’ Cork Screw. This well-toned corkscrew is ready to pop the cork and pour a splash of vino into your glasses. Mr. Lovin’ is dependable and always ready to assist, whether you need a slow or fast pour.
For Tea Lovers: Heat Changing Heart Mug £10 from Kikkerlandeu.com

Watch these mugs morph right before your eyes. Made of thermographic inks, these mugs react to heat, revealing new and fun artwork. As your drink cools, the graphics change back to their original state.
For The Undecisive One: Stress Flix Dice £9.99 from ThumbsUp.com

Netflix and Chill but can’t choose a film? Let the Stress Flix Dice take the pressure off. This innovative product features six different TV categories, so you can make a fair and square decision about what to watch. And, it doubles as a stress cube, so you can use it to relieve stress when you’re not binge-watching.
For Chocoholics: Chocolate Fondue Mug £14.99 from ThumbsUp.com

Treat yourself and your loved ones to the ultimate chocolate experience. This mug is not just any ordinary mug, it’s a game-changer! Imagine gooey, melted chocolate. Upgrade your next date night with this indulgent treat, and you’ll never look back.

PUTTING THE ‘PENG’ INTO PENGUIN
SEA LIFE BIRMINGHAM REVEALS THE LATEST SHOCK RECOUPLING, AND IT’S ADORABLE!

Following last night’s shock recoupling, it seems love is in the air and the sea, as National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham has revealed two of its adorable Gentoo penguins have coupled up this month.

Single lad Flash has finally put all his eggs in one basket, settling down with one of the aquariums budding bachelorettes, fellow Gentoo penguin Madonna.

Born at SEA LIFE Birmingham in 2019, Flash is one of the OGs at the aquarium and it appears after a dramatic journey looking for love, he has finally found his match in Madonna.

Not one to be mugged off, Madonna has been turning heads since she arrived at SEA LIFE Birmingham in November 2016. After six years of testing out the vibe, being pulled for chats and doing anything not to cross girl code, Madonna has found her type on paper.

Fearless of being pied, Flash laid it on factor 50 to work his way up the ‘pecking’ order and after rumours began to circulate, the pair have finally coupled up.

Amy Langham, General Manager at National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham, said: “We are so happy to see Madonna and Flash have become an item. They’re renowned throughout the animal care team as two of the friendliest penguins we have here in Birmingham, so they’ve taken on the label as the aquarium’s power couple.

“Madonna is known to love the attention, not just from penguins but humans too, she’s even partial to sitting on the animal care team’s laps when they go into the enclosure. The penguin pair are practically inseparable at the moment, and it’s been a long time coming for Madonna, who has been here since 2016. Penguins don’t tend to play the field, once they’ve found the one for them, they are mated for life, so we’re hoping this will be a lifelong partnership.”

To visit Flash, Madonna and all the other amazing creatures at National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham, please visit the website here: www.visitsealife.com/birmingham/

NEW RESEARCH SHOWS HOME DATE NIGHTS WILL SKYROCKET THIS VALENTINE’S DAY (AS WILL SALES OF LINGERIE TO SPICE IT UP!)
SEARCHES FOR ‘VALENTINE’S DAY BABY ANNOUNCEMENT PRODUCTS’ ARE ALSO TRENDING, SUGGESTING 14 FEBRUARY WILL SEE PREGNANCY AND NEW BABY REVEALS GALORE
New research using UK Google searches has found that couples are almost twice as likely to celebrate Valentine’s Day at home this year versus previous years when there wasn’t a Cost of Living crisis.
Analysis of consumers’ planned habits for the season of love shows that couples are 20 per cent more likely to cook at home rather than go out for dinner, and four times more likely to whip something up themselves versus ordering in a takeaway.
But, while British pairings may be cutting back on their out of home spend, they’re fully focused on keeping their at-home date night as romantic as possible, according to the data analysed by retailer La Redoute.
The fashion and homeware brand found that top trending searches this week include specific browsing for Valentine’s Day lingerie, pyjamas, jammies and bedding – suggesting that shoppers are planning on making the most of their romantic time at-home.
Contrastingly, many are looking to keep their partner dressed; the data show’s we’re twice as likely to gift clothing as we are underwear, intimating that the lingerie browsing is for the shopper and not their other half.
Social media may also see an influx of new baby announcements on 14 February 2023, as searches for ‘Valentine’s Day baby announcement products’ have also been trending since the start of the year.
Sarah Link, Head of Marketing at La Redoute, said: “With everyone tightening their purses and being more savvy this year, it’s no surprise that people are opting to stay in this Valentine’s Day. By updating your fashion, and home surroundings to fit the mood of the evening, your date night can be even more bespoke and magical. At La Redoute, we’re eager to prove that a date night at home can be just as romantic, with a selection of cocktail making kits, pizza boards and pillar candles to up the romance levels.
“Our silky pyjamas and lacy lingerie will also make sure your partner’s heart is fluttering this February.”
La Redoute’s Valentine’s Day collection is available throughout the month, with up to 30 per cent off selected fashion and homeware pieces to help bring romance into the home. Visit the brand’s blog for further inspiration. To shop La Redoute’s Valentine’s Day collection, visit: www.laredoute.co.uk/alt/valentinesday.aspx.

THE ULTIMATE NIGHT OUT FOR PEC LOVING PALS
SHOWCASE CINEMAS ANNOUNCES SWOON WORTHY COMPETITION TO WIN A PRIVATE SCREENING OF MAGIC MIKE’S LAST DANCE THIS PALENTINE’S DAY – FEBRUARY 13TH

To celebrate the highly anticipated release of Magic Mike’s Last Dance, Showcase Cinemas is launching a competition for its cinemagoers to celebrate Palentine’s Day with their closest friends, in the ultimate comfort and style.

Showcase Cinemas is giving one lucky winner and their pals the chance to win their very own private screening of the film, starring Channing Tatum, on February 13th.

The competition will be available to enter between 6th–10th February, ahead of the film’s release on Friday 10th, and all hopefuls need to do is head to Showcase Cinemas UK Instagram or Facebook.

Magic Mike’s Last Dance sees Channing Tatum return for the ab-tastic final part of the Magic Mike trilogy. After a business deal gone bust, “Magic” Mike Lane returns to the stage for one last hurrah. When a wealthy socialite (Salma Hayek) lures him to London with an offer he can’t refuse, will he – and the roster of hot new dancers he meets – be able to pull off one final show?

Jon Dixon, UK Marketing Director at Showcase Cinemas said: “We have so many exciting new releases coming out this year, so what better way to celebrate the launch of Magic Mike’s Last Dance, than with a competition to win your very own private screening at your local Showcase?”

To enter the competition and be in with a chance of winning a private screening of Magic Mike’s Last Dance at Showcase Cinemas (February 13th), simply visit Showcase Cinemas UK (@showcasecinemasuk) Facebook or Instagram and tag your besties, with the winner being revealed ahead of the special day.

Magic Mike’s Last Dance opens at Showcase Cinemas nationwide on February 10th, with private screenings available for just £25 per person for group of 20. To book, visit Showcase Cinemas’ website here:www.showcasecinemas.co.uk/groups-and-parties/magic-mikes-last-dance-private-screening.

Relationship expert shares 10 date ideas for you and your partner this Valentine’s Day that won’t break the bank

Relationships can also be affected by the current cost-of-living crisis, trying to find an activity to do with your special someone on a budget can prove difficult.

Especially as Valentine’s Day is a few weeks away, and the probability of budget-friendly places being fully reserved is high.

It is also difficult to think outside of the box of things to do, especially after having to maintain relationships in recent unprecedented times, where we feel we are lacking creativity.

Valon Asani from relationship app Dua.com has shared some fun and quirky date ideas that you most likely have not done before and are easy on your wallet.

1. At home Paint and Sip

‘Paint and Sips’ are an excellent way to see how you and your partner can get creative, however, they can be pricey. Paint and Sips are in-formal art classes where you paint the same image and drink cocktails, mocktails, or wine.

You can recreate a similar experience at home that is not limited to painting and can include fancy homemade cocktails/mocktails. You can purchase affordable arts and crafts sets from your local craft store or even create something using air-drying clay.

2. Game Night

Game nights are a fun and competitive way to put your partner’s skills to the test. Most video games do have a co-op mode where you can team up together. Story-based games are great as you through challenges together. Board games can also provide hours of entertainment on a low budget. You can find rare board games at charity shops. Most new board games are fairly inexpensive and can be a great option for date night.

3. Visit an Art Gallery or Museum

Most museums and galleries have free entry or discounted tickets available, which means you can get cultured on a low budget. This is a great way to see what art styles your partner likes and can even help you decide what to create for your ‘At home Paint and Sip’

4. The viral £5/$5 meal challenge

This challenge has taken over social media and is a fun way to put your cooking, budgeting and creative abilities to the test. Taking turns, you and your partner must come up with a three-course meal that stays within a set budget – typically the budget is set low to make this more challenging – the lower it is, the more difficult. The challenge is in the budget, and the lower it is, the more challenging it can be.

5. Book Club

If your partner is an introvert or book lover, they will love this idea. An ‘at home book club’ where you and your partner can read the same book, with a cosy drink and candles. Not only can this improve your communication skills with your partner as you discuss your thoughts on the book, but this can also provoke interesting and thoughtful conversations. This can be a great and intimate way to reignite the spark in your relationship.

6. Gardening

Some garden centres offer free volunteer gardening days, especially in the Spring. This can be a fun activity with your partner, and you can give back to your community at the same time!

You can also garden at home, growing seasonal fruits or vegetables that you can harvest and cook with. Over time this can be very cost-effective, as you can re-grow your own produce.

7. Come Dine with Me

Cooking and baking is a fun activity to do with your partner. You can try recipes from various parts of the world and learn about different cultures. To make this more fun and competitive, you can host a couples Come Dine With Me and judge your partner’s dishes!

8. Hobby Swap

This is for the partner that find themselves doing what their partner likes most of the time. Take turns explaining and participating in your partner’s hobbies. This can also help you get to know your partner even more. You can teach your partner a skill that you have, such as playing the piano.

9. Play Tourist

You can become a tourist in your own city with your partner because the chances are you’ve not been to any historical places that are on your doorstep. A spokesperson from Dua.com says that “exploring your city can be refreshing and give you a new perspective on where you live”.

10. IKEA Challenge

IKEA is a great date spot, since there is a lot of walking and talking involved, plus there is no entry fee. You and your partner can walk through the showrooms or even grab something to eat at their food hall. You can even find something that is within your budget to build together.

WIN A DARING DATE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY
THE YORK DUNGEON LAUNCHES A POETRY COMPETITION TO WIN A PRIVATE DATE NIGHT LIKE NO OTHER

The York Dungeon is excited to announce a frightful Valentine’s Day competition, offering romantics the chance to win a private daring date at the attraction by penning a poem to the Dungeon’s character Infectious Polly.

Plague-ridden Polly is in search of a new partner this Valentine’s Day and The York Dungeon is looking to help her on her quest for love by inviting inspiring wordsmiths to submit a special poem via the attraction’s social media.

Those who impress Infectious Polly will be in with a chance of winning themselves, and a plus one, free tickets to The York Dungeon, meaning the (un)lucky pair can enjoy a gruesome date at one of UK’s most spooky attractions.

The unfortunate peasants who claim the prize will have free rein of the attraction on Valentine’s Day… sort of. The pair will be shown around the dingy dungeons by none other than – unlucky in love – Infectious Polly herself, talk about third wheeling!

The York Dungeon is infamous for taking visitors deep into the depths of the darkest secrets of the city’s unique history, whether it be visiting the Vengeance of the Vikings or the Curse of the Witch there is plenty of scares around every corner.

Mark Mattinson, General Manager of The York Dungeon, said: “We are excited to announce Infectious Polly will be joining our other ghastly characters at The York Dungeon this Valentine’s Day, and so could you!

“Our new competition means one (un)fortunate couple will have the pleasure of visiting Polly and the other characters free of charge during the romantic holiday, so long as they can woo our resident plague pauper with a special Valentine’s Day poem.

“The loved-up duo will have the gruesome luxury of enjoying all our shows with no other guests around, giving them an extra special experience on the most romantic day of the year! So, if you want a first date from hell, or a wedding anniversary to be remembered, head on over to our social media channels to submit your entry.”

To enter the competition head over to The York Dungeon’s socials channels and submit your best rhymes to be in with a chance of winning: https://www.facebook.com/YorkDungeon/ , @yorkdungeon on Instagram & Tiktok.

The winner will be announced and contacted on Friday 10th February and the winning poet and their (un)loved one MUST be available to visit The York Dungeon on Tuesday 14th February during opening hours from 10am – 5pm.

For further information and to purchase tickets to The York Dungeon, please visit the website here: www.thedungeons.com/york/

GALENTINE’S DAY: 7 OF THE BEST GIFTS TO CELEBRATE THE WONDERFUL WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE THIS YEAR

Galentine’s Day is the designated day of the year to shower your besties with all the love, affection, (and presents!) they deserve. Falling on February 13th, it gives best buds the chance to show just how much their non-romantic relationships mean to them.
So, forget about all that mushy stuff that comes the following day, and dedicate all your devotion to that one person who’s always there for you no matter what. From beauty products to cosy bed wear and handy tech, there’s something for everyone.
To help celebrate, the retail experts at online marketplace OnBuy have compiled a list of seven of the best gifts to buy your gal pals this year.

Garnier Hydrating Face Mask
Perfect for a night of self-care or a sleepover with the girls, this super hydrating tissue mask promises to get your skin glowing in just 15 minutes.
The sheets are also filled with serum and natural plant extracts, helping to reduce the look of fine lines, and reviving radiance.
• Garnier Moisture Bomb Pomegranate Hydrating Face Sheet Mask – £2.49 – buy from OnBuy

Teddy Fleece Hooded Blanket
In the middle of winter nothing screams cosy more than being snuggled up in a big warm hooded blanket.
Twin with your bestie and chill-out in front of the fire watching your favourite chick flick – there’s even a pocket to hold your snacks!
• Teddy Fleece Hooded Blanket, £13.99 – buy from OnBuy

Cards Against Humanity
One of the best (and most controversial) party games ever created, you’ll definitely need a dark sense of humour to play this one.
Compete with your friends to see who can complete the blank and give the most stomach-churning answer.
OnBuy also sell a number of spin-offs, including Cards Against Disney, Cards Against Muggles and Cards Against Simpsons.
• Cards Against Humanity, £20.80 – buy from OnBuy

Mini Home Cinema Projector
Turn your home into your own personal cinema with this mini projector, perfect for watching Melissa McCarthy in Bridesmaids for the 84th time.
It’s also portable – so whether you’re at home, staying at a girlfriend’s, or going away, there’s no excuse to not have a movie night.
• Mini Pocket LED Projector | Digital Home Cinema Projector – £44.93 – buy from OnBuy

FitBit Versa 2 Smartwatch
Working on your summer body? Whether you’ve got a trip to Ibiza planned, or simply wanting to hit the gym as part of your New Year’s resolutions, this FitBit will help you reach your fitness goals.
With built-in voice control, you can set alarms, reminders – plus it’s water-resistant!
• FitBit Versa 2 Smartwatch | Rose Gold, £83.90 – buy from OnBuy

Molton Brown Diffuser
Close your eyes and you could be on a beach on a tropical island with the aromas of creamy coconut, cinnamon and jasmine.
Whether you’re chilling out at home, or on hosting duties, this dreamy scent will keep everyone feeling relaxed for the night ahead.
• Molton Brown Diffuser, £29.99 – buy from OnBuy

Two Glass Mugs
Take your drink-making to the next level with these stylish glass mugs.
These chic latte cups fit into any aesthetic and are great for getting that perfect ‘insta shot’ with your friends!
Double-walled, they not only insulate your beverage of choice but are dishwasher safe too.
• 2pk Double Walled 275ml Glass Mugs, £14.98 – buy from OnBuy

> _“…uplifting pensées featuring reassuring words and captivating
> images. Readers will find this collection to be an energizing daily
> constitutional for the soul.” _
>
> — _Kirkus Reviews_
>
> _“In a conversation that flows and then pauses to breathe and to learn
> and to look anew, Susan Lax melds strength and compassion to bring
> life-wisdom to every page. A literal labor of love.”_
>
> —Bradley Burston, journalist
>
> _“…a rare blend of exquisite poetry, soulful wisdom, and much-needed
> whimsy. In her own gentle and compassionate way, Lax invites us to
> awaken our hearts to all that is, and to deepen our attention so that
> we may find in each moment of our lives the courage, humility,
> honesty, and hope that sustain the human spirit.”_
>
> —Jeannie Blaustein_, _Ph.D., Founding Board Chair, Reimagine End of
> Life Organization
>
> A HEART’S LANDSCAPE
>
> An Invitation to the Garden of Moments
>
> by Susan Lax
>
> When you are challenged – how do you tap into your moment of joy?
>
> We all have the ability to manifest a day based on joy and
> understanding by beginning with a transcendent moment. Author and
> counselor Susan Lax offers such moments to get your day started in her
> gorgeous collection of stories, poems and insights, A HEART’S
> LANDSCAPE: An Invitation to the Garden of Moments (Your Moment Press;
> January 12, 2022). Lax shares entries and photographs from her
> “Morning Inspiration” emails to provide readers with the insight,
> comfort and healing needed to open their minds and live each day with
> an attentive heart.
>
> The seeds for Morning Inspiration were planted when Susan Lax learned
> that one of her closest friends was diagnosed with cancer and she was
> determined to find a way to bring light back to their bond. Respecting
> her friend’s desire to keep her illness confidential, Lax began
> sending her friend an email each morning at 6 a.m. designed to bring a
> moment of joy to her day. This daily tradition continued for five
> months until one morning Lax awoke with the flu and did not send her
> morning email.
>
> By 7:30 a.m., Lax received a phone call from her friend. “Where is my
> morning blessing? Why didn’t you send it today?”
>
> This would be the only moment in which the two friends discussed the
> emails aloud. For the rest of the year, Lax sent a short morning
> blessing and eventually, her friend regained her health. Although the
> emails were only spoken about once, Lax understood the support they
> provided. From there, the Morning Inspiration newsletter was born.
>
> Morning Inspiration has evolved over time. What began as a message for
> women diagnosed with health issues became a crafted moment of
> inspiration for all types of people. The email list grew to include
> men as well as women traveling through their individual challenging
> journeys. Along the way, Lax began incorporating photography with her
> transformative messages. Through these shared moments, she continues
> to showcase the importance of finding time for joy. We may never be
> able to overcome grief, but we can learn to set it aside for periods
> of time and allow ourselves to experience life’s wonders through a
> positive frame of mind.
>
> SUSAN LAX earned a teaching degree in creative drama from the
> Kibbutzim College of Education, Technology, and the Arts in Israel.
> She taught creative drama at a local elementary school and continued
> her studies at the Chochmat Halev, where she focused on meditation and
> Jewish spirituality. Throughout her educational career, Lax also
> studied Jewish healing, sacred psychology, spiritual practice as a
> path of healing, healing aspects of death and dying, and guided
> meditation. Lax currently works as a spiritual counselor specializing
> in, but not limited to, those touched by illness, grief, and loving
> through death. She lectures and leads workshops on the topics of
> awareness and making room for joy. Lax is the author Morning
> Inspiration, an email newsletter released three times a week. In
> addition, she is the co-owner of Naot Footwear, a company that
> ethically manufactures handmade comfort shoes in Israel.
>
> A HEART’S LANDSCAPE
>
> By Susan Lax
>
> Your Moment Press; January 12, 2022
>
> $32.95; 212 pages
>
> ISBN-10: 0578962942; ISBN-13: 978-0578962948

TOP TEN VALENTINE’S DAY STAINS REVEALED

DISHING THE DIRT ON THE MOST ROMANTIC DAY OF THE YEAR

As Valentine’s Day fast approaches, Brits are getting ready to celebrate the most romantic day of the year with their loved ones.

Whether that’s feeding each other chocolates, having breakfast in bed, or enjoying a candlelit meal, love will truly be in the air. However, as couples get lost in each other’s eyes, their attention may be compromised, leading to unfortunate accidental spills and stains.

So, to help the hopeless romantics out there, cleaning and laundry experts, Dr. Beckmann have identified the top stains that are bound to occur this Valentine’s Day and how to sweep those stains off their feet.

Dr. Beckmann spokesperson, Chloe Baker said: “The last thing anyone wants to do is spend Valentine’s Day on their hands and knees, cleaning up a stubborn stain! Luckily, we’ve put together our top tips to banish those unsightly Valentine’s Day stains and keep your romantic evening enjoyable.

“Red wine is a common tipple that is enjoyed between two on Valentine’s Day, however after a few glasses the night can quickly turn messy. If you have an unfortunate spillage, make sure to blot the alcohol with a cloth until the liquid is absorbed, then sponge with cold water. Dr. Beckmann’s Upholstery Stain Remover is great to have in the cupboard ready and waiting to tackle those unfortunate spillages.

“Candles ooze romance and set the mood for a picturesque evening, but they can easily ooze onto the carpet if left unattended. To tackle a spillage, allow the dripped wax to harden, then place an absorbent paper towel over the stained area and iron on a low heat – the wax should then transfer over to the paper towel, leaving you to finish off with a stain remover.

“Everyone loves a box of chocolates, especially on Valentine’s Day, but this sweet treat can soon turn sour if it’s smeared into the carpet or sofa. To tackle, scrape any excess chocolate off the stain before treating and then blot the mark with a damp cloth. If the stain is a difficult one, soak in a mixture of one part white vinegar, one part water and 1/4 cup of washing detergent, and leave to soak into the stain overnight before scrubbing.

“Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to pucker up and share a kiss with your loved one, so lipstick stains are inevitable. Simply remove any excess and dab at the stain with a damp cloth or a baby wipe. Once this has been done apply a stain remover and the stain should come right out.

“Some couples might even decide to experiment with massage oils as a Valentine’s Day treat. While these products may be fun to use, the cleaning aftermath can often be a nightmare. If you end up with oil on your clothing, make sure to blot out as much of the oil as soon as possible, don’t rub the stain as this will just push the grease deeper into the fabric fibres.

“For extra stubborn stains, sprinkle some baking soda on the blemish, along with dish soap, and then scrub with a toothbrush. Let it rest and then rinse in hot water, once the stain has disappeared, pop your clothes into the machine, with one of Dr. Beckmann’s Magic Leaves Laundry Detergent Sheets for an extra-fresh and clean feel.”

“We hope these top tips help all the lovebirds out there enjoy a stain-free Valentine’s Day and ensure their night of romance doesn’t turn into an everlasting messy affair!”

Check out Dr. Beckmann’s full product range to help tackle those stubborn stains here: https://www.dr-beckmann.co.uk/

TOP 10 VALEN-STAINS IDENTIFIED BY CLEANING AND LAUNDRY EXPERTS, DR. BECKMANN

1. Red wine
2. Chocolate
3. Candle Wax
4. Food
5. Lipstick
6. Strawberries
7. Fake Tan
8. Flowers
9. Massage Oils
10. Coffee

Is your home infested with bed bugs? Experts reveal seven signs to spot them, plus tips to get rid

Your bedroom is essentially your safe haven; it’s the place where you can relax and unwind at the end of the day, but that can quickly change when you have unwanted guests like bed bugs. Not to mention, they can be quite difficult to spot, causing them to become more of a nuisance in your home and therefore harder to get rid of.

Fortunately, experts at Bed Kingdom have provided seven signs to look out for and some tips to remove them from your bedroom.

Unusual smell
One of the early signs of bed bugs is a strange, musty scent lingering in your bedroom, despite there being no clear cause of it being there, such as a dirty pile of clothes. When bed bugs feel threatened, they emit what is called alarm pheromones which have a faint smell of raspberries, cilantro, or almonds – and in severe bed bug cases, this smell we be mixed with the odour of dead bugs and shed cell casings which creates a rusty scent.

Bites
If you wake up with red, itchy bites, this could be a sign of bed bugs as they typically feed on blood during the night. Usually, bites will appear on arms, hands, and legs and will be in small clusters of a few bites, but they can also show up in single bites. These bites are not usually dangerous, but some people can be allergic – so if you experience extreme itchiness, swelling, blisters, or a fever it’s crucial to seek help from a medical professional.

Blood stains
Once a bed bug is finished feeding itself, the blood can leak out if you squash them during your sleep by sudden movements like rolling over. If you notice any small splotches of blood on your bed sheets or clothing, check for anything on your body first that could be the cause, like a scab. If there’s no visible cause of the blood, it’s likely that these stains occurred from bedbugs.

Dark, brown marks
Dark marks from bed bug droppings about the size of a pen tip can appear on mattresses, sheets, headboards, and even your walls, and they’re a lot smaller than blood stains. They will also give off a faint, rusty smell that contributes to the unusual odour altogether.

Eggs
Bed bug eggs can be hard to spot, as they are only around 1mm long – but they can be found by paying attention to anything that looks like small rice grains in your bed. They can be loosely stuck to different types of surfaces, typically the mattress seams and joints or behind the headboard.

Shell casings
Often easier to spot than the bed bugs themselves, shell casings are an early sign of infestation. Bed bugs shed several times during different lifecycle stages, meaning that their shell casings can come in different sizes – but you can spot them by their yellow, translucent appearance in the seams, folds, and crevices of mattresses, or even other areas such as cracks in walls and furniture.

Live bed bugs
It can be quite a challenge to spot a live bed bug, as they normally look for a hiding place, however with a severe infestation you are more likely to notice them. Adult bed bugs are approximately 4-5mm long, with bed bug nymphs starting at just 1mm. Their hiding spots can be various places from your bed and the area next to it to furniture and your walls.

How to remove them from your bedroom
It can be difficult to completely get rid of bedbugs, especially with a severe infestation, so it’s advised to contact the council or a pest control service to ensure they’re no longer taking over your bedroom. However, there are some steps you can take yourself to put your mind at ease.

1. First of all, try to identify all of the areas where the bed bugs could be hiding by using a flashlight and a magnifying glass. This includes your entire bed, cushions, cracks in walls and furniture, loose wallpaper, the seam between wallpaper and the ceiling, and underneath decorations on your wall.

2. Wash all of your affected bedding on clothing on a hot wash, as well as using the tumble dryer on a hot setting for a minimum of half an hour. For anything that can’t be washed, place them in plastic bags and leave in the freezer for 3-4 days.

3. Using an insecticide is not recommended as some of them can contain harmful chemicals that can be dangerous when used indoors, but you can opt for a bed bug spray to use before vacuuming which is typically safe for mattresses and furniture.

4. Clear out any rubbish from your bedroom and put it in the bin, such as magazines, and make space ready to vacuum. Use a vacuum on the entire floor, making sure to get all of the corners – you can use the small wand to get into other areas of the bedroom, such as furniture and cracks in the wall.

A spokesperson from Bed Kingdom has commented: “Getting cosy in bed on an evening is something that many people look forward to at the end of the day, whether it’s to chill out and watch your favourite TV series or perhaps to curl up with a gripping book. Unfortunately, this can be ruined when bed bugs take over your bedroom, so it’s important to know what signs to look out for so that you can get back to relaxing quickly and to avoid a more complicated process of removing them.”

Delicious and affordable wedding cakes that won’t break the budget
Let’s face it – one of the most exciting parts of a wedding, is the unveiling of the cake! It’s a fun and delicious way to inject your personality into the day – and this year, brides and grooms are looking for new and creative ways to put their own twist on this tradition.
Ahead of the 2023 wedding season, Sponge.co.uk has launched its wedding cake collection to provide everyone with delicious, tasty, and affordable options. From the Baby Cake Wedding Tower, to the Naked Tiered Wedding Cake – there is something for every budget.

Baby Cake Wedding Tower (from £180)
Mini cakes and cupcakes are predicted to be BIG this wedding season, and these unique baby sponges can create a wedding tower to feed up to 80 people, from £180. This stunning centrepiece is available in a variety of flavours and as gluten free and vegan options too. The baby sponges are also perfect for wedding favours and extra gifts for your guests, and available from just £75.

Naked Wedding Cakes (from £85)
Design your own stunning three-layered naked wedding cake for your special day, which will feed 25 guests. With Sponge.co.uk, you can choose any flavour sponge to make your base and middle layer, as well as four baby sponges to sit on top. You can also add a stylish wedding cake topper – opt for a simple and elegant wooden design, or vintage ‘just married’ bunting. The naked wedding cakes are also available to order as gluten free and vegan too.

Whole wedding cakes (from £140)
Can’t decide on what cake flavour to go for? Then why not order six different cakes to suit your wedding theme and dietary requirements? With Sponge.co.uk you can choose from over 20 different flavours, which include gluten free and vegan cakes.

Brand-new wall art collection from Scandinavian wall art brand, Desenio which is launching exclusively online today! Ideal for Valetnine’s Day

The new collection is called ‘Love Is in The Air’ and includes a variety of romantic art prints in elegant colours. The prints are bursting with harmonising shades and floral prints that help you create your own at-home sanctuary and feel the love on Valentine’s Day.

Expert reveals how to approach ‘spicing things up’ with your partner this Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is the only holiday designated for lovers, which makes it a fabulous time to explore intimacy with your partner in new ways. This might mean trying new sex positions, experimenting with toys, or simply starting a conversation about bucket list things to try as a couple.
Sex expert Sarah Riccio, owner of delicto.com, takes us through her top tips on how to approach spicing things up with your partner this Valentine’s Day.
If you pitch the idea of a new sex position, your lover might feel nervous at the prospect of stepping outside their comfort zone. This doesn’t necessarily mean the answer is no, but it’s important to address feelings of discomfort or performance anxiety before jumping into new territory. Take plenty of time to address wants, needs, fears and, if applicable, safe words.
If you’re both exploring a new position for the first time, don’t be afraid to tell your partner how you’re feeling, even if it’s not overwhelmingly positive. The more you let yourself be vulnerable with your lover, the greater your shared intimacy will be.
Some new sex positions to try for Valentine’s Day could be:
Mirror Sex. Making love in front of a mirror can make any position feel more romantic because couples get to admire themselves mid-play. This can also be a great steppingstone for folks who aren’t quite ready to try a new position, but still want to explore a sexy, new sensory experience.
Up-Close Missionary. Also known as “modified missionary,” this position puts a romantic spin on a fan-favorite classic. You start in missionary as you normally would, but the receiver wraps their legs around their lover to pull them in extra close, while the giver cradles their partner’s head and draws it into the erogenous zone between their ear and shoulder. This slight modification allows players to hear and feel each other’s breath and body movements in an incredibly intimate way.
From Behind. Lovers who have never tried a “doggy-style” position might want to give it a go on Valentine’s Day! There’s no one right way to do it (which might ease your mind if you’re a beginner) as long as the giver is behind the receiver. The romantic part about this position is that the giver is able to explore their lover’s body from a new, exciting angle. They can rub their partner’s back while they receive, reach around their body to provide clitoral stimulation, whisper sweet nothings in their ear, kiss the back of their neck — the options are endlessly intimate!
Sarah also commented: “If your partner is opposed to the idea of exploring new sex positions, it’s important to not get angry or frustrated with them. Pressing the issue or trying to convince them is not a good idea either, and will likely only spark feelings of insecurity, inadequacy, and resentment.

Instead, listen to your partner, validate their feelings, and assure them that you only ever want to explore intimacy in a way that makes them feel comfortable and cared
for. You might also suggest revisiting the conversation after you’ve done more research together and established effective ways of addressing wants, needs, and fears.”

This research was carried out by delicto.com, an information website on exploring pleasure, product reviews, how-to guides and a wide selection of carefully curated sex toys and accessories.

Crack the Code to a Stress-Free Night with Stress Flix

Netflix is one of the most popular streaming services around, and they make it convenient to watch different genres of movies, TV shows, and documentaries. But did you know there are secret Netflix codes that help unlock even more content? With over 36,000 films and episodes it is clear that all of these couldn’t be highlighted on your Netflix screen.
Just head to the ‘secret menu’ on Netflix. This collection of content offers more than what is normally found on the home page and through searching. To explore these collections – ordering off the secret menu, all you need to do is fire up your web browser, type in “netflix.com/browse/genre/” and begin scrolling through all the hidden gems that await you. This secret menu can be used by both new viewers and seasoned veterans to discover content that they wouldn’t otherwise have access to. Alternatively, just type the code into the search box on your TV or streaming device.

These codes let you filter through an expansive library so you can find something to watch quickly and easily. Discover what kind of content is hidden behind these special codes to help you maximize your Netflix experience. Here are some of the codes:
• 90 Minute Movies – 81466194
• Family Movie Night – 2013975
• Pop Culture Icons – 81278963
• Nostalgic ’90s – 2691941
• Spy Action & Adventure – 10702
• Romantic Comedies – 5475
• British TV Shows – 52117
• Musicals – 13335
• Romantic Comedies – 5475
• Cult Horror Movies – 10944
• Tearjerkers – 6384
• Independent Dramas – 384
• Action Comedies – 43040

There is so much to choose from and when stressed out over what to watch on Netflix use the Stress Flix Dice by Thumbs Up!, The ingenious gadget takes the pressure off so you can enjoy an evening of stress-free streaming. This innovative product has six different sides for you to choose from, each with its own genre that showcase a range of movies, shows, and documentaries. So take a chance and let the dice land wherever it falls – it’s time to relax and let the Stress Flix Dice pick the genre for you. If all else fails take out your anger on the Stress Flix, which can be crushed and squeezed until you calm your streaming woes.

The Stress Flix Dice Game costs £9.99 from ThumbsUp.com

Relationship expert shares 10 date ideas for you and your partner this Valentine’s Day that won’t break the bank

Relationships can also be affected by the current cost-of-living crisis, trying to find an activity to do with your special someone on a budget can prove difficult.

Especially as Valentine’s Day is a few weeks away, and the probability of budget-friendly places being fully reserved is high.

It is also difficult to think outside of the box of things to do, especially after having to maintain relationships in recent unprecedented times, where we feel we are lacking creativity.

Valon Asani from relationship app Dua.com has shared some fun and quirky date ideas that you most likely have not done before and are easy on your wallet.

1. At home Paint and Sip

‘Paint and Sips’ are an excellent way to see how you and your partner can get creative, however, they can be pricey. Paint and Sips are in-formal art classes where you paint the same image and drink cocktails, mocktails, or wine.

You can recreate a similar experience at home that is not limited to painting and can include fancy homemade cocktails/mocktails. You can purchase affordable arts and crafts sets from your local craft store or even create something using air-drying clay.

2. Game Night

Game nights are a fun and competitive way to put your partner’s skills to the test. Most video games do have a co-op mode where you can team up together. Story-based games are great as you through challenges together. Board games can also provide hours of entertainment on a low budget. You can find rare board games at charity shops. Most new board games are fairly inexpensive and can be a great option for date night.

3. Visit an Art Gallery or Museum

Most museums and galleries have free entry or discounted tickets available, which means you can get cultured on a low budget. This is a great way to see what art styles your partner likes and can even help you decide what to create for your ‘At home Paint and Sip’

4. The viral £5/$5 meal challenge

This challenge has taken over social media and is a fun way to put your cooking, budgeting and creative abilities to the test. Taking turns, you and your partner must come up with a three-course meal that stays within a set budget – typically the budget is set low to make this more challenging – the lower it is, the more difficult. The challenge is in the budget, and the lower it is, the more challenging it can be.

5. Book Club

If your partner is an introvert or book lover, they will love this idea. An ‘at home book club’ where you and your partner can read the same book, with a cosy drink and candles. Not only can this improve your communication skills with your partner as you discuss your thoughts on the book, but this can also provoke interesting and thoughtful conversations. This can be a great and intimate way to reignite the spark in your relationship.

6. Gardening

Some garden centres offer free volunteer gardening days, especially in the Spring. This can be a fun activity with your partner, and you can give back to your community at the same time!

You can also garden at home, growing seasonal fruits or vegetables that you can harvest and cook with. Over time this can be very cost-effective, as you can re-grow your own produce.

7. Come Dine with Me

Cooking or baking is a fun activity to do with your partner. You can try recipes from various parts of the world and learn about different cultures. To make this more fun and competitive, you can host a couples Come Dine With Me and judge your partner’s dishes!

8. Hobby Swap

This is for the partner that find themselves doing what their partner likes most of the time. Take turns explaining and participating in your partner’s hobbies. This can also help you get to know your partner even more. You can teach your partner a skill that you have, such as playing the piano.

9. Play Tourist

You can become a tourist in your own city with your partner because the chances are you’ve not been to any historical places that are on your doorstep. A spokesperson from Dua.com says that “exploring your city can be refreshing and give you a new perspective on where you live”.

10. IKEA Challenge

IKEA is a great date spot, since there is a lot of walking and talking involved, plus there is no entry fee. You and your partner can walk through the showrooms or even grab something to eat at their food hall. You can even find something that is within your budget to build together.

FOOD IS LOVE! BRITS GO BARKING MAD FOR DOG VALENTINE’S CELEBRATIONS, SPARKING A MUST HAVE FOR DOG LOVERS… VALENTINE’S CARDS FOR YOUR POOCH

• Olivia Attwood, and her rescue dog Lola, unveil collection of dogs’ Valentine’s Day cards
• Valentine’s cards unveiled as new research shows that Brits plan to spoil their beloved dogs more than ever this February
• Collection, launched by Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs, accompanies giant food giveaway of personalised tins

BRITISH dog owners are set to spend a whopping £300m* on celebrating Valentine’s Day with the four-legged love of their life.

Pooch parents spend an average of £30 a piece on presents for their dog, rising to £71 in Northern Ireland, where purchases include a new doggy outfit to celebrate.

Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs conducted the research to celebrate the launch of its new Healthy Heart product range, and these findings inspired the brand to celebrate dog owners’ love of showering their pets with gifts during this season of love by launching…a bespoke collection of Valentine’s cards designed for dogs.

The collection was created in partnership with pet art brand, Purr and Mutt, and TV star, Olivia Attwood. Each of the cards will be available to buy online for just £1, with every penny collected being donated to Butcher’s Nourish Every Dog programme.

The programme supports dog homes, shelters, and rescue charities nationwide. Since starting the #NourishEveryDog campaign just three years ago, over 2 million meals have been donated to over 250 charities.

The idea for cards was inspired by how much the country loves to display pooch pictures around the home; the average dog owning household has eight pictures of their dog on display, and 1 in 20 has a whopping 30.

A special extra card features Olivia’s rescue dog Lola, who was sat alongside the TV presenter and reality star at the design session.

Lola also received the first personalised tins of Butcher’s Healthy Heart. One personalised tin per dog name will be available to order for free via the brand’s website – so dog lovers can grab a great Valentine’s Day present that their pooch is sure to love.

Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs research around British pet owners and Valentine’s Day also found that:

• Men typically spend £8 more than women on dog Valentine’s celebrations – and more men than women describe their dog as their ‘baby’
• Most of those surveyed would rather have a long walk with their dog than they would a minibreak with their partner
• A third of those who enjoy a regular date night make sure their dog is included in their plans, with seven per cent of British couples even meeting via a dog walks!

Commenting on the partnership with Butcher’s, Olivia Attwood, said: “My dogs are absolutely the centre of my daily life, so it’s no surprise that pet owners are going wild in the aisles to celebrate the love they have for their dogs during the season of love. Creating a charity collection of Valentine’s Day cards, with my gorgeous Lola as one of the options you can buy, was so much fun and will help to support so many dogs in need.”

The research also found that a long and healthy life is the gift dog owners would most want for their animal companions, and that two thirds seek a food that actively supports their dog’s heart health.

Natasha Bryant, Senior Brand Manager for Butcher’s, said: “Just like us, it’s evident that food is love when it comes to our dogs. We had such fun creating this card collection and are proud that all funds collected will help dogs in need across Britain via our Nourish Every Dog charity partners – because every dog deserves naturally, nourishing food, a happy home and to be loved.

“Our consumer research found that 75 per cent of dog owners are worried about their pet’s health and that a fifth are actively worried every day. Luckily, it’s easier than ever to help maintain optimum health for our dogs thanks to the development of nutritious food ranges such as Butcher’s Healthy Heart.

“This February, it’s great to see that Brits aren’t just showing their love via fun things like treats, cards and personalised tins. Two thirds are already taking steps to ensure their dog’s heart is as healthy as possible.”

Pick your pooch’s Valentine’s Day card, and support dog home, shelters and rescue charities nationwide, by checking out the Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs Healthy Heart collection at Purr and Mutt here.

And to make tails wag even more during the season of love, register for the chance to claim a free personalised tin of Butcher’s Healthy Heart here while stocks last.

Butcher’s Nourishing Food For Dogs Healthy Heart recipes are vet recommended and carefully created by the brand’s inhouse nutritionist. Every recipe has the right amount of naturally active ingredients to keep our beloved four-legged friends healthy and happy. These 100 per cent complete and balanced, grain free recipes contain a combination of key ingredients to support a healthy heart and help dogs thrive.

ROLLERCOASTER RENDEZVOUS – BOOK A THRILLING GIFT THIS VALENTINE’S DAY
LAST MINUTE GIFT GIVERS REJOICE! FANTASY ISLAND’S HOLIDAY HOMES ARE DISCOUNTED UNTIL FEBRRUARY 14TH
WHERE: Fantasy Island theme park, Ingoldmells
SAVING: 15% off all holiday homes
PRICE RANGE: From £100 to £1,380
LIVE UNTIL: February 14th

Looking for a thrilling last minute Valentine’s gift? Good news, Fantasy Island theme park is happy to announce they will be extending its holiday homes discount right up until the special day.

The award-winning theme park, located in Ingoldmells, is offering its visitors 15% off on all holidays booked before 14th February. This means guests can bag a bargain for their partner with a UK staycation packed with adventure.

Choose from four holiday homes, ranging from Platinum to Bronze. Bronze cravans offer all the essentials needed for your stay in a self-catered caravan, with a world of adventure right on the doorstop.

Silver and Gold packages featured everything needed for a luxury staycation, in spacious caravans prepared to fit up to six guests. However, to take your special trip up a level, the Platinum caravan means guests can sit back, relax and unwind in a six seat, private hot tub right outside their door.

Paige Harris, Head of Marketing at Fantasy Island, said: “As the days count down towards Valentine’s Day, we know how hard it can be to find that special gift for your loved one. As such, we’ve extended our holiday home’s discount to ensure all our loved up guests can book a bargain break here at Fantasy Island.

“Our holiday homes are situated perfect for a couples holiday like no other, with the opportunity to explore Fantasy Island from dawn till dusk. We cannot wait to welcome guests back to our holiday homes for another year of action-packed fun!”.

As Valentine’s Day creeps up, partners looking for any last minute gifts needn’t worry as the Fantasy Island 15% off deal runs all the way to February 14th, meaning lovebirds can give their other half a thrilling getaway to one of the UK’s top staycation destinations at a discounted rate.

Holiday homes with a discount begin at £230.85 for weekday stays, £367.65 for the weekend and just £607.05 for a full week, with all homes housing up to eight guests. All customers need to do is quote 15%PRESS2023 when booking to receive this super saving.

For further information on booking your holiday home, please visit here: www.fantasyislandholidays.co.uk/

LOVE IS 135 METRES IN THE AIR THIS FEBRUARY AT THE LASTMINUTE.COM LONDON EYE
Sip champagne with your crush while soaring over London this Valentine’s Day
Images are available for download here: https://we.tl/t-cP0jwXPgHX

February 2023 – Home to over 5,000 proposals, London’s most romantic attraction – the lastminute.com London Eye – is offering loved-up couples the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day soaring over the London skyline sipping bubbles with their loved one.

The lastminute.com London Eye is running two special champagne pod experiences to meet any budget:

• The Valentine’s Champagne Experience is a shared experience, perfect for celebrating with that special person while taking in views of London’s skyline. Couples will enjoy a chilled glass of Pommery Brut Rosé Champagne served by a host along with Hot Chocolat pink champagne chocolate truffles. Guests receive fast track entry. The Valentine’s Champagne Experience is available from the 10th-14th of February. Priced at £58 per person.

• Perfect for hopeless romantics who want to pull out all the stops, the Cupid’s Pod offers a more private and exclusive experience – perfect for a proposal! Guests are treated to their own private pod, a bottle of the finest Pommery Brut Rosé Champagne, a luxury box of Hotel Chocolat pink champagne chocolate truffles, fast track entry, and their own personal host to make the experience extra special. The Cupid’s Pod is available throughout the romantic month of February. Priced at £550 per pod.

Imran Tauqir, General Manager at the lastminute.com London Eye, said: “The London Eye is one of the most romantic places on earth and the thousands of proposals we’re seen here at the attraction show there’s nothing quite like looking out over the stunning views of London with a loved one. This Valentine’s Day love will definitely be in the air – over 135 metres in the air to be precise – and we can’t wait to share this special season with lovebirds visiting us from the UK and beyond …and maybe even celebrating a few more engagements!”

Georgia Dawkin who got engaged to Kieran Nolan on the lastminute.com London Eye in 2022 said: “I can’t believe how fast a year has flown since being engaged. Kieran’s proposal was very romantic and in the perfect setting. He booked a birthday weekend away to London and managed to convince me to ride on the London Eye, despite me usually being really nervous of heights!

Once actually on the pod I knew I had nothing to fear as the view distracted me. Kieran asked someone to take our photo and as I turned around he was down on one knee! This captured the moment perfectly and I treasure the picture. Since then we have booked our wedding for 2024 and are looking forward to hopefully visiting again for our one year anniversary.”

Tickets for the Valentine’s Champagne experience, running from Friday 10th – Tuesday 14th February, are priced at £58 per person.

Tickets for the private Cupid’s Pod cost £550 per pod and runs throughout the month of February.

Each experience lasts 30 minutes and pre-booking is essential.

For more information and to book tickets, go to londoneye.com/valentines

Relationship expert shares 10 date ideas for you and your partner this Valentine’s Day that won’t break the bank

Relationships can also be affected by the current cost-of-living crisis, trying to find an activity to do with your special someone on a budget can prove difficult.

Especially as Valentine’s Day is a few weeks away, and the probability of budget-friendly places being fully reserved is high.

It is also difficult to think outside of the box of things to do, especially after having to maintain relationships in recent unprecedented times, where we feel we are lacking creativity.

Valon Asani from relationship app Dua.com has shared some fun and quirky date ideas that you most likely have not done before and are easy on your wallet.

1. At home Paint and Sip

‘Paint and Sips’ are an excellent way to see how you and your partner can get creative, however, they can be pricey. Paint and Sips are in-formal art classes where you paint the same image and drink cocktails, mocktails, or wine.

You can recreate a similar experience at home that is not limited to painting and can include fancy homemade cocktails/mocktails. You can purchase affordable arts and crafts sets from your local craft store or even create something using air-drying clay.

2. Game Night

Game nights are a fun and competitive way to put your partner’s skills to the test. Most video games do have a co-op mode where you can team up together. Story-based games are great as you through challenges together. Board games can also provide hours of entertainment on a low budget. You can find rare board games at charity shops. Most new board games are fairly inexpensive and can be a great option for date night.

3. Visit an Art Gallery or Museum

Most museums and galleries have free entry or discounted tickets available, which means you can get cultured on a low budget. This is a great way to see what art styles your partner likes and can even help you decide what to create for your ‘At home Paint and Sip’

4. The viral £5/$5 meal challenge

This challenge has taken over social media and is a fun way to put your cooking, budgeting and creative abilities to the test. Taking turns, you and your partner must come up with a three-course meal that stays within a set budget – typically the budget is set low to make this more challenging – the lower it is, the more difficult. The challenge is in the budget, and the lower it is, the more challenging it can be.

5. Book Club

If your partner is an introvert or book lover, they will love this idea. An ‘at home book club’ where you and your partner can read the same book, with a cosy drink and candles. Not only can this improve your communication skills with your partner as you discuss your thoughts on the book, but this can also provoke interesting and thoughtful conversations. This can be a great and intimate way to reignite the spark in your relationship.

6. Gardening

Some garden centres offer free volunteer gardening days, especially in the Spring. This can be a fun activity with your partner, and you can give back to your community at the same time!

You can also garden at home, growing seasonal fruits or vegetables that you can harvest and cook with. Over time this can be very cost-effective, as you can re-grow your own produce.

7. Come Dine with Me

Cooking and baking is a fun activity to do with your partner. You can try recipes from various parts of the world and learn about different cultures. To make this more fun and competitive, you can host a couples Come Dine With Me and judge your partner’s dishes!

8. Hobby Swap

This is for the partner that find themselves doing what their partner likes most of the time. Take turns explaining and participating in your partner’s hobbies. This can also help you get to know your partner even more. You can teach your partner a skill that you have, such as playing the piano.

9. Play Tourist

You can become a tourist in your own city with your partner because the chances are you’ve not been to any historical places that are on your doorstep. A spokesperson from Dua.com says that “exploring your city can be refreshing and give you a new perspective on where you live”.

10. IKEA Challenge

IKEA is a great date spot, since there is a lot of walking and talking involved, plus there is no entry fee. You and your partner can walk through the showrooms or even grab something to eat at their food hall. You can even find something that is within your budget to build together.

Gifts For The Foodies!

Zest up your Valentine’s Day! This season of love. Spice up your Valentine’s Day with Lindor’s NEW Milk Blood Orange flavour. Valentine’s Day is coming up and finding the perfect gift can be difficult. However, we have found the perfect gift for your special someone!

SKU: en_gb_08003340800516, RRP: £6.00
Available at Lindt.co.uk and Lindt UK stores

Perfect for giving to your lover and sharing an indulgent, and truly luxurious, milk chocolate with a fruity twist to make that Valentine’s Day at home just a bit more special.

Flowers and chocolates are nice… but this year we’re giving them a Valentine’s Day gift they actually want: self-care in the form of the most delicious CBD treats. So, why not surprise them? Inspiration from Cannaray CBD to spoil your loved ones – or yourself…

The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Experience in London

Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to show love and appreciation to that special someone. City Cruises, the premier sightseeing cruise provider in London, offers the ultimate way to celebrate this special day.

Embark on a delightful Valentine’s Day Champagne Evening Cruise along the River Thames, where guests are greeted with a glass of champagne. The cruise sails through London’s glittering skyline, offering breath-taking views from the open upper deck. Onboard, guests can enjoy elegant canapés and atmospheric entertainment as they pass by the city’s historic and contemporary landmarks.

City Cruises also offers the Valentine’s Day Champagne Afternoon Tea Cruise, where guests can take in the stunning views of London’s famous landmarks such as the historic Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the contemporary architecture of the Shard and Canary Wharf. A delicious afternoon tea is served during the cruise, featuring scones with clotted cream and jam and a selection of mini sandwiches and cakes.

For more information on City Cruises’ Valentine’s Day cruises, please visit the website at https://www.cityexperiences.com/london/city-cruises/.

About City Cruises
City Cruises is the premier sightseeing cruise provider in London, offering a range of sightseeing cruises and boat trips on the River Thames. With live commentary, licensed bars, and a choice of different cruises and routes, City Cruises is the perfect way to see London from the water.

Raspberry Sharing Millefeuille Heart / £12.95
Available in-store and online at paul.co.uk

Indulge this Valentine’s Day with PAUL’s limited-edition Raspberry Millefeuille, a dessert that is perfect for sharing. Crafted from layers of buttery puff pastry, raspberry jam, whipped cream and fresh raspberries, this treat is sure to impress. Finished in the shape of a heart, this is a true French classic with a romantic twist. Indulge in the decadence of the Raspberry Millefeuille this Valentine’s!

Chocolate & Praline Sharing Millefeuille Heart / £12.95
Available in-store and online at paul.co.uk

A chocolate lover’s dream! Introducing PAUL’s limited-edition Chocolate & Praline Millefeuille, crafted from layers of buttery puff pastry, chocolate, praline cream, whipped cream, and hazelnuts for an added crunch, this treat is sure to impress this Valentine’s Day. Finished in the shape of a heart, this is straight from the pages of a romantic fairytale in Paris!

Raspberry Delice Heart (Individual and sharing) / £25.95 sharing / £7.25 individual
Available in-store and online on at paul.co.uk

The Raspberry Delice Heart is a delicious dessert perfect for sharing this Valentine’s Day. This heart-shaped treat is made with layers of delicate sponge cake, raspberry jam, and creamy raspberry mousse filling, topped with fresh raspberries and a sprinkling of gold dust. The sponge cake is moist and fluffy, while the raspberry mousse filling is light and airy, providing a perfect combination. A truly irresistible delight that makes your special occasion even more memorable. The Raspberry Delice Heart is available in two sizes, perfect for sharing or an individual gift.

Craquant Heart (Individual and sharing) / £25.95 sharing / £7.25 individual
Available in-store and online at paul.co.uk

The Craquant Heart is a delectable dessert that is perfect for sharing, filled with layers of dark chocolate sponge, praline and chocolate ganache and almonds. Finished in a heart shape for a romantic touch and complete with a sprinkling of gold dust, it is perfect for Valentine’s Day. The Craquant Heart is available in two sizes, perfect for sharing or an individual gift.

Chocolate & Raspberry Palmier / Price £3.95
Available in-store, Deliveroo and Uber Eats

The classic french butter puff pastry biscuit just became even more delicious, with a chocolate-covered layer topped with freeze-dried raspberries. Pair it with your favourite winter warming drink, for the perfect afternoon treat this Valentine’s season.

Raspberry Macaron Heart / £4.95
Available in-store and on Deliveroo and Uber Eats

Give your loved one the true taste of French patisserie this Valentine’s Day! Nothing says ‘je t’aime’ like a PAUL Raspberry Macaron Heart. Renowned for its exquisite taste and presentation alike, enjoy this delightful combination of an almond macaron and raspberry jam.

Je t’aime… Valentine’s Gift Box / £37.95
Available online only at paul.co.uk

The ultimate Valentine’s gift! This gift of love includes a Raspberry Millefeuille Heart, a Chocolate & Praline Millefeuille Heart and a delightful box of mini macarons. The Raspberry Millefeuille Heart is expertly crafted from layers of buttery puff pastry, raspberry jam, whipped cream and fresh raspberries. The Chocolate & Praline Millefeuille Heart is a chocolate lovers’ dream, with layers of buttery puff pastry, chocolate, chocolate praline cream, whipped cream and hazelnuts for an added crunch. This gift really does say “je t’aime”.

THE ULTIMATE NIGHT OUT FOR PEC LOVING PALS
SHOWCASE CINEMAS ANNOUNCES SWOON WORTHY COMPETITION TO WIN A PRIVATE SCREENING OF MAGIC MIKE’S LAST DANCE THIS PALENTINE’S DAY – FEBRUARY 13TH

To celebrate the highly anticipated release of Magic Mike’s Last Dance, Showcase Cinemas is launching a competition for its cinemagoers to celebrate Palentine’s Day with their closest friends, in the ultimate comfort and style.

Showcase Cinemas is giving one lucky winner and their pals the chance to win their very own private screening of the film, starring Channing Tatum, on February 13th.

The competition will be available to enter between 6th–10th February, ahead of the film’s release on Friday 10th, and all hopefuls need to do is head to Showcase Cinemas UK Instagram or Facebook.

Magic Mike’s Last Dance sees Channing Tatum return for the ab-tastic final part of the Magic Mike trilogy. After a business deal gone bust, “Magic” Mike Lane returns to the stage for one last hurrah. When a wealthy socialite (Salma Hayek) lures him to London with an offer he can’t refuse, will he – and the roster of hot new dancers he meets – be able to pull off one final show?

Jon Dixon, UK Marketing Director at Showcase Cinemas said: “We have so many exciting new releases coming out this year, so what better way to celebrate the launch of Magic Mike’s Last Dance, than with a competition to win your very own private screening at your local Showcase?”

To enter the competition and be in with a chance of winning a private screening of Magic Mike’s Last Dance at Showcase Cinemas (February 13th), simply visit Showcase Cinemas UK (@showcasecinemasuk) Facebook or Instagram and tag your besties, with the winner being revealed ahead of the special day.

Magic Mike’s Last Dance opens at Showcase Cinemas nationwide on February 10th, with private screenings available for just £25 per person for group of 20. To book, visit Showcase Cinemas’ website here: www.showcasecinemas.co.uk/groups-and-parties/magic-mikes-last-dance-private-screening.

IT’S O-FISH-AL! VALENTINES DATE NIGHT SORTED!
ENTER TO WIN AN EVENING AT SEA LIFE BRIGHTON AND DELICIOUS FOOD FROM PIZZA PILGRIMS

SEA LIFE Brighton is offering loved-up couples the ultimate Valentine’s evening package. Date night will be completely taken care of as guests can dive in and enjoy an underwater experience.

The attraction will be opening its doors after hours on Friday 10th February for 10 lucky couples who can enjoy a tour of the aquarium, discover all the incredible creatures and then tuck into delicious food and fizz!

Partnering with a local restaurant; Pizza Pilgrims, guests will receive freshly made pizzas served under the delights of the ocean tunnel accompanied by sharks, turtles and other wonderous creatures of the deep.

Neil Harris, SEA LIFE Brighton General Manager said: “Following the success of our ocean date dining last year we are delighted to be offering this prize again and partnering with Pizza Pilgrims.

“SEA LIFE Brighton is an extraordinary place and I think it is the perfect setting for a date with a difference. Exploring the creatures and history of the building all whilst being wined and dined – what could be better?!”

A spokesperson for Pizza Pilgrims Brighton said: “What a dream to experience the glorious deep blue sea, all while enjoying pizza. We’re excited to help make this amazing prize happen!”

SEA LIFE Brighton is looking to hold many more after-hours events this year from Silent Discos to Private Tours and Dining Experiences so any guests who miss out this time will still have opportunities to experience SEA LIFE Brighton After Hours!

For the chance to win the VIP date with a difference, all couples need to do is head to SEA LIFE Brighton’s website and answer a SEA LIFE based question and input their contact details. The lucky couples will then be chosen when the competition closes at midnight on Sunday 5th February.

For more information and to apply please visit SEA LIFE Brighton’s website:
www.visitsealife.com/brighton/explore/events/win-a-date-prize-draw/