What should you be doing in your garden right now?

Early June may be a time when you are stocking up on plenty of your favourite mail order seeds, but it’s also a time when there are so many other things to do around the garden. Your garden should be approaching a nice peak right now, given the decent amount of rain we’ve had, not to mention the late spring and continuing warmth. But now is not a time to get complacent about your garden, whether or not you are a Seeds By Post (http://www.seedsbypost.co.uk) customer.

Are your containers and hanging baskets looking good this week, for example? Even if the sun hasn’t been as intense in your area of the country as it might have been where we are, they may be drying out and require everyday watering. With the temperatures continuing to rise, you should also keep up with the hardening off of outdoor tomatoes and courgettes, while you can also ensure larger blooms when you disbud border carnations. Now is also a good time to head to the rock garden and cut back alyssum and aubrieta, post-flowering.

There is also an obvious excuse to buy seeds online, given that now is the perfect moment to have seeds of fast-maturing annuals sown directly into the ground, as well as thinning any seedlings sown some months ago. There are even many spring-flowering biennials that you could sow right now, with examples including sweet Williams, wallflowers and forget-me-nots. You may also want to spend this week dividing any primulas and other early-flowering perennials, as well as lifting spring bulbs once the foliage has died down, should extra space be required. The bulbs can subsequently be stored in boxes in a well-ventilated shed.

Other steps that can be taken in your garden this week include hoeing regularly on dry days to prevent the establishment of weed seedlings, using a watering can to apply lawn feed, warding off birds by covering currants, strawberries, gooseberries and soft fruits with netting and planting out chrysanthemums and dahlias that you may have raised from cuttings. You could even head into the greenhouse, where the tips of cucumber side shoots two leaves beyond developing fruits can be pinched out.

As the month progresses, fans of our flower, herb and vegetable seeds will have further work to do, including weeding and thinning, digging out tulips and storing them dry for the summer, planting up pots and tubs for the summer and pinching out cordon tomatoes and earthing up potatoes, if required. With the risk of frost now over, you might also want to take the chance to sow French and climbing beans.

Some of these steps may seem more necessary than others, depending on the nature of your own garden and your level of confidence and skill in tending for it. One definite constant, though, is the availability of the best seeds online for all manner of purposes, from the experts here at Seeds By Post (http://www.seedsbypost.co.uk).

Editor’s Note: Seeds By Post (http://www.seedsbypost.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

February... truly the month of love

Long-time admirers of the sophisticated and innovative creations of London fashion designer Alise Trautmane know that her NARCISS (http://www.shopnarciss.com) fashion label is one of the best ones to which to look for the finest outfit for a date or head-turning night with friends.

St. Valentine's Day may have now passed, but that doesn't mean that enthusiasts of "humble luxury" should cease to update their wardrobes with examples of the timeless fashion that the luxury fashion boutique espouses. From dresses and skirts to tops and trousers and clutch bags, NARCISS fashions far transcend the trend du jour - as is appropriate, given the evergreen nature of love itself.

With its emphasis on women being more self-confident and falling in love with themselves in a rather healthier way than was the case with the handsome young man, Narcissus, of the Ancient Greek myth, NARCISS is about a love that goes far beyond 14th February. Love may die, but it is also continually revived and flourishes, much like the mystical tree of Baltic folklore, Austra's Tree (Tree of the Dawn), that inspired much of NARCISS' Spring/Summer 2013 Collection.

It was as part of the run-up to St. Valentine's Day that NARCISS asked the style star and fashion blogger behind The Fashion Slogger, Deniss Schevelove, for his own recommendations of the most romantic garments from the Spring/Summer 2013 Collection. His suggestions included the Vera Dress, which is full pleated and takes pride of place in NARCISS' wider range of silk dresses. It is a fine complement to the similarly-styled Austra Jacket and Austra Skirt.

Coming second on Schevelove's list was the Nora Silk Blouse, now available from the online fashion boutique for a mere £314, followed by the Madara Jacket, a beautifully embroidered fuchsia jacket that can be bought for £406. Ranking fourth was the perfect chic accessory for svelte fashionistas, the Carmena Tote - a hand-embellished leather tote. While it is 100% leather on the outside, it is 100% silk on the inside and is on sale for £397.

NARCISS (http://www.shopnarciss.com) fashions like these continue to do the rounds in the major publications, flaunting just what is possible for fashion-seekers on the lookout for designer skirts and similar garments that keep the romance going long after those last flirtations on the evening of 14th February.

Editor’s Note: NARCISS (http://www.shopnarciss.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Organising Your Wedding In Berkshire

It’s no wonder that the Royal County of Berkshire is a popular backdrop to many wedding ceremonies.  With its gorgeous scenery and peaceful tranquility, brides and grooms agree that Berkshire is a very romantic wedding destination.  When organising your wedding in Berkshire, you must start with the perfect wedding venue in which to exchange your vows. 

Here are just some of the multitude of reasons why the Regency Park Hotel has become one of the leading wedding venues in Berkshire, one which is sure to please any couple.  

Size of Wedding Party

Our beautiful hotel has several different venues available depending on the size of your wedding party.  Although you want all of your guests to fit comfortably within the space, you also want everyone to be able to interact with one another.  Determine how many guests will be attending your wedding, and then talk to us regarding which of our suites will be right on your big day.

Wedding Planner

Partnering with a wedding planner is a great way to organize the details of your wedding.  Our exclusive hotel provides an experienced wedding planner to assist you with all aspects of your ceremony and reception.  With their exquisite attention to detail, your wedding planner will ensure that your special day goes off without a glitch.

Amenities

There are many different amenities on offer to make your wedding truly memorable.  When you have your wedding in Berkshire at the Regency Park Hotel, you can be assured that you and your guests will be well taken care of.  Discounted rooms are available for guests of the bride and groom as well as these other amenities:

• Catering

Berkshire weddings offer several different dining options.  Whether you want your guests to enjoy a five course meal or a casual buffet, we will help you plan the details of your wedding menu.  Tasting your food options before serving them to your guests is a delicious way to determine which foods to have at your wedding.

• Entertainment

Every couple will have their own personal taste when it comes to supplying entertainment for their wedding.  Choosing a live band that everyone can enjoy is a great way to add excitement to the evening.  Your wedding planner will help you choose and schedule the best entertainment for your wedding celebration. 

• Complimentary Guest Parking

Having ample room for your guests to park ensures that no one will miss your ceremony due to lack of parking.

• Wedding Packages

Romantic wedding packages are the perfect way to bundle details, such as breakfast in bed or a romantic candlelit dinner.  We are licensed for civil ceremonies and offer packages for them as well.

Berkshire weddings at the Regency Park Hotel have elegance and character that cannot be matched.  Come and visit our wedding venues in Berkshire to begin your happily ever after. 

Editor’s Note: Regency Park Hotel (http://www.regencyparkhotel.co.uk/) is represented by the search engine optimisation and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959.

WRAP begins move towards consultancy with new EU contract

Following the recent 40 per cent reduction in its budget as confirmed by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) has begun its transition towards consultancy work, with the announcement that it is to embark on a three year resource efficiency project funded by the European Union (EU). It is a development that will interest many of those recycling old computers and other materials with Collect and Recycle (http://www.collectandrecycle.com).

The organisation’s chief executive added that there were several more funding opportunities “in the pipeline”, as it was announced that it had secured €3.1 million (£2.7 million) of funding in total, to oversee REBus (Resource Efficient Business Models), a project with financial backing from the EU LIFE+ fund which supports various environmental initiatives on the continent.

WRAP stated that it would focus on resource efficiency in four key markets as part of the project – namely electrical and electronic products, furniture, clothing and construction products. WRAP’s involvement in the project was announced just a fortnight after the organisation was informed of a reduction in its funding from the UK government of more than a third during the 2014/15 period, as part of the government’s Spending Review.

News of WRAP’s EU assignment also came at the same time as concerns were voiced at the Resource Association conference in London about an ongoing requirement to ensure quality in recycling – an area in which some observers in sectors like electrical waste recycling and copper recycling feel WRAP should be more deeply involved.

After the EU award was confirmed, WRAP chief executive Dr Liz Goodwin told letsrecycle.com of the organisation’s intention to boost the diversity of its income base, adding that in addition to its work for the UK governments, it intended to take on a greater consultancy role. She expressed confidence of the announcement being the “first of many” for the organisation in the months ahead.

She commented: “I was delighted to hear that WRAP had been successful in securing new EU funding for REBus (Resource Efficient Business Models).

“We have been saying for some time – most recently at the time of the recent Whitehall Spending Review – that WRAP is actively pursuing a new business model where we can draw on more diverse sources of funding, and this latest award is a perfect example of this in action.”

WRAP’s director of Closed Loop Economy, Marcus Gover, also welcomed the announcement, stating at the Resource Association conference that the funding award represented “very good news” at a time of budget cuts by government. WRAP currently receives funding from four government bodies, including the Welsh Government, Scottish Government and the Northern Ireland Assembly, as well as Defra.

The development shows how organisations of concern to those in such sectors as cardboard collection are showing adroitness in expanding their revenue streams at a time of reduced generosity from government – efforts in which we can only salute them here at Collect and Recycle (http://www.collectandrecycle.com).

Editor’s Note: Collect and Recycle (http://www.collectandrecycle.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

More work and better pay attracting people to freelancing, says survey

As a contractor and a client of one of our accountants for contractors here at Freelancer Accounting (http://www.freelanceraccounting.com), chances are that you appreciate having the freedom to determine your own workload, something that is not enjoyed by those on the usual ‘9 to 5’. It therefore shouldn’t surprise you in the slightest to hear that so many people are choosing to work for themselves for this same reason, according to one recent poll.

The survey found that it was a perceived opportunity to get more work that led to 35 per cent of freelancers deciding to go it alone. For another 24 per cent, higher pay was an attraction. As for sources of freelance work, recruitment agencies ranked highest for popularity, with a third of freelancers stating that they had found their freelance projects in this way. Less than a quarter claimed to have found their work via job adverts – all interesting information for those presently considering going freelance and becoming a client of one of our small business accountants.

Indeed, there were some barriers to going freelance that were cited in the report, and which the right PCG accountant from a reputable firm like Freelancer Accounting could help to alleviate. 36 per cent of freelancers, for example, worried about their ability to gain a regular income, while 24 per cent of respondents fretting about finding regular clients. For 18 per cent, the management of HMRC paperwork was a source of concern. Freelancer Accounting’s seasoned and well-qualified accountants in Guildford are happy to advise freelancers on the management of their tax and accounting affairs, saving them time, money and stress so that they can focus on their core business.

Neither the popularity, nor the advantages of freelancing are an illusion, with about 40 per cent of all new jobs since 2010 having been the creation of freelancers and contractors, according to TUC. It is an indicator of how self-employed people have flourished in the UK’s post-recession landscape, and as the news of this has spread and other types of work have become scarcer, more and more people have decided to take the plunge into working for themselves, often with the assistance of specialist accountants for freelancers. There’s no doubt that the growth of freelancing has brought opportunities to those individuals and companies that appreciate the flexibility that it brings.

However, it is as important for a freelancer as it is for any other type of worker, to keep on top of their accounting and taxation affairs, ensuring that they operate in a way that is fully compliant as well as tax efficient. Freelancer Accounting (http://www.freelanceraccounting.com) is happy to cater for such people, providing them with access to dedicated contractor accountants who understand their business and serve as a vital point of contact, giving the most proactive and informed tax and accounting advice.

Editor’s Note: Freelancer Accounting (http://www.freelanceraccounting.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

A selection of some of the current Gentlemen’s Tonic best sellers

When the modern man wishes to escape the common stresses of the world, he has many options, not least in the Mayfair area of London in which Gentlemen’s Tonic (http://www.gentlemenstonic.com) was founded, and from where it continues to provide the finest treatments and products in traditional male grooming. Indeed, it is a distinct mix of time-honoured values and contemporary innovation that helps to mark out this establishment from the rest, and much the same could be said of its current selection of branded best sellers.

Whether the purchase is made online or via one of the company’s many national or international stockists, the discerning man – or the woman who loves him – can select from an extensive range of cannily developed male grooming gifts and products, and the current online best sellers page highlights many of the most essential. No self-respecting man could pass up an item like the Gentlemen’s Tonic Daily Moisturiser, for example, which combines such key ingredients as gotu kola, seaweed, babassu oil and coco butter as part of a formula for the soothing, rejuvenation and nourishing of male skin – whatever the skin type.

Alternatively, the demanding man may plump for such a product as the current Exfoliating Facial Scrub that helps to remove excess dirt and dead skin cells in addition to cleansing, moisturising and conditioning the skin. Also in stock is the Moisturising Hand Balm, the intense and non-greasy formula of which ensures the skin’s moisturisation and protection. But the shaving process is also one close to the heart of Gentlemen’s Tonic’s male grooming experts, which is why the best sellers list also includes the likes of Pre Shave Oil. This product allows a man to start his shave in confident and stress-free fashion, with his skin prepared, soothed and protected.

Men who use Pre Shave Oil can expect a smoother and more comfortable shave to follow, with less skin irritation – and sure enough, the online store caters for the complete range of shaving needs. There are few prouder creations of the Gentlemen’s Tonic team of master barbers than the Traditional Shave Cream, for instance, which is a luxurious product that forms a rich, moisturising lather – thanks in large part to such essential ingredients as manuka honey and babassu oil. This shave cream is paraben free, consisting of natural ingredients, and of course, it is also ideally applied with a shaving brush – such as one from Gentlemen’s Tonic’s own range of handmade Savile Row brushes.

These products for home use have long been regarded as excellent complements to such Gentlemen’s Tonic (http://www.gentlemenstonic.com) treatments as full body scrubs, waxing procedures and facials, and only affirm the reputation of the establishment as a purveyor of the most exceptional quality male grooming products – from shave cream to aftershave balm. Visit the site now to peruse the present selection of best sellers.

Editor’s Note: Gentlemen’s Tonic (http://www.gentlemenstonic.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Choose The Right Meeting Room In Berkshire For Your Special Event

Whether you are planning an important business event or a laid-back team-building retreat, it is crucial that you select the right meeting room in Berkshire that will fulfill the specific requirements of your event.  The venue you select for your event may be contingent on the specific goal or theme of your meeting.  Our hotel meeting rooms at the Regency Park Hotel have all of the amenities necessary to make any event or meeting a success.  Here are just a few of the ways that our meetings rooms will make your event planning easier. 

1.    The Right Location

The first detail that should be taken into consideration when planning a meeting is location.  Although your event may mandate required attendance, you want to make it easily accessible for everyone.  If you are planning a business retreat, you may be inclined to choose a resort that has the appropriate accommodations. Not only does the Regency Park Hotel hotel offer a health spa, but it has a refreshing swimming pool and excellent dining as well.  It’s the perfect place for your business associates to unwind, relax and concentrate on the matter at hand.

2.    The Right Size

Size is important when it comes to seating all of your guests comfortably.  We have several sizes of hotel meeting rooms to choose from.  This allows you to select the perfect size of space for your particular event.  Our Manhattan Suite can seat up to 50 meeting delegates, as can the Business Centre with its 7 additional meeting rooms. The Paris Suite accommodates between up to 95 delegates, while the impressive Parkland Suite comfortably accommodates up to 200 delegates, even offering its own reception and bar area.

3.    Select Amenities

Although many corporate meeting rooms provide the basic amenities, you’ll want to ensure that the room you use has everything you need.  From ample parking and private entrances, to reception areas and catering services, you’ll find our meeting rooms offer a diverse array of amenities that will make your event memorable.  With onsite hotel accommodations, you can provide premium lodging for your colleagues.  We also have executive guest access to a professional business centre with additional meeting rooms as well.

4.    Determine Your Budget

The goal when booking a meeting room in Berkshire is to maximize your space and amenities while sticking to your allotted budget.  First determine your budget to see how much you have to spend on a premium event space.  Then call us to make all of the necessary arrangements.

5.    Come Take a Look

Don’t forget to view our corporate meeting rooms in person before the actual event date.  This will help you to visualize your event and ensure that your meeting room is the perfect size.  Our experienced representatives will be happy to help you with the details of your event. 

Our beautiful hotel has superb outdoor space perfect for your group barbeque or outdoor activities.  With our quality hotel meeting rooms and superb service, you will soon know why the Regency Park Hotel is a popular destination for various events and meetings.

Editor’s Note: Regency Park Hotel (http://www.regencyparkhotel.co.uk/) is represented by the search engine optimisation and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959.

MILK BEAUTY AT OLYMPIA BEAUTY, 29 & 30 SEPTMEBER 2013

This year MILK Beauty, North London’s Mobile Beauty Service [LINK TO milkbeauty.co.uk] will be offering a sample of their new Pamper Party services to Press Guests at Olympia Beauty.

Drop by the Press Office at Olympia Beauty and sample MILK’s unique combination of mobile beauty + gorgeously results focussed treatments. MILK will be ready to pamper you with delicious OPI manicures and high performing PRIORI mini facials, some of the best facial treatments in London right now, topped off with anti-oxidant rich PRIORI CoffeeBerry Mineral Make Up.

About MILK Beauty

MILK Beauty offers high quality mobile beauty therapy, in the comfort of your home or the convenience of your office.

Clients can choose from a full range of beauty treatments, including hot waxing, gel nails, office massage and home massage and MILK’s specialism, cosmeceutical skincare. You can book all treatments online. Why not treat yourself to a home visit cosmeceutical facial using either Environ and PRIORI skincare. MILK therapists are specially trained to offer tailor made skincare treatments and programmes to match your needs.

MILK Beauty has been featured in the award winning Beauty Passionista beauty blog and has some excellent client reviews

What you need to know about subcontracting

As a freelancer and client of one of our accountants for freelancers here at Freelancer Accounting (http://www.freelanceraccounting.com), chances are that you’ll be used to adopting flexible approaches to assignments, based on such factors as your current workload and personal circumstances. Certainly, there are few freelancers who haven’t at least considered subcontracting – whether doing it for someone else or getting another person to subcontract for them. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of subcontracting?

It’s possible that you will have considered finding a subcontractor if an opportunity suddenly arises for work that you don’t have the free time to complete yourself, given other ongoing projects. Of course, you could always turn down the offer of work, but in the case of many clients, a similar opportunity may not arise from them again. But if you try to tackle the work yourself despite your crowded schedule, it’s very likely that the results won’t be up to standard.

That’s why, especially if the client is a massive one that you value your relationship with and that is offering money that you just can’t turn down, you might be tempted to bring in a subcontractor. Certainly, this is something that many of the clients of our contractor accountants do very successfully, as it lifts pressure off them and even places them in a position to attract bigger jobs than previously. There is, however, the potential for more stress, as you’ll suddenly be a client yourself and need to manage your subcontractor to ensure that they produce work of a satisfactory standard.

This project management side of things is something that our small business accountants always urge clients to bear in mind when they are negotiating fees. You might need to learn to manage staff, having never done it before. As so often, though, thorough preparation makes a big difference. Before you take on a worker, peruse their CV and do a bit of other research on them. Ask for samples of previous work, and pay attention to the seemingly small things that could indicate your likely experience of working with them – such as how long they take to answer an email.

Alternatively, of course, you may fancy becoming a subcontractor yourself, which allows you to take on grander projects than you might have previously been able to attract on your own. Doing this can be a good experience if you want to move up another level, but on the minus side, it’s likely that you won’t receive credit for the work. Earnings may also be lower.

Nonetheless, as a client of one of Freelancer Accounting’s (http://www.freelanceraccounting.com) accountants in Guildford, you may feel that the downsides are a worthwhile price to pay for the chance to take on more intriguing and prestigious assignments. Contact us now for tailored advice on your accounting and tax affairs as a freelancer.

Editor’s Note: Freelancer Accounting (http://www.freelanceraccounting.com) is represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Please direct all press queries to Louise Byrne. Email: louise@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

NARCISS is springing into action for summer 2014

Among its many other principles, the up-and-coming luxury fashion boutique NARCISS (http://www.shopnarciss.com) is committed to continual design evolution, never letting up on a creative process that pays as much attention to historic, mythical and natural elements as it does to the trend du jour that predominantly guides so many other labels.

That proactive approach is already making itself felt as the NARCISS team, led by esteemed London fashion designer Alise Trautmane, gets to work on the new Spring-Summer 2014 collection. Admirers of the label's past collections, including its Spring/Summer 2013 range inspired by Baltic mythology, as well as the dark and dramatic Fall/Winter 2014 collection, will be intrigued to discover the themes that inform its next items of sophisticated femininity.

Indeed, the long-standing principles of "humble luxury", the sole use of the highest quality natural fabrics and the most impeccable craftsmanship that have underpinned all of NARCISS' creations so far do at least carry some indication of how the label plans to 'spring into action' in 2014. With the name of the label being derived from the Ancient Greek myth about the handsome young man, Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection, its next collection looks set to continue promoting a somewhat healthier female self-confidence.

The boutique has continued to attract no shortage of notice for its existing fine unique investment pieces, ranging from designer skirts to leather clutches and everything in-between, as borne out by their appearance in recent months in such publications as ETC Magazine, Company, The Observer Magazine and the Daily Express. Examples of those NARCISS pieces to have recently drawn the attention of editors include its metallic crochet lace pink pencil skirt with an ethereal silk lining, fuchsia pink jacket with a statement embroidery and royal blue belted fit and flare skirt.

Meanwhile, Stefany Vidzus, the uber-creative person and fashion blogger behind stefanystrange.com, has selected her favourite striped pieces by NARCISS, commenting: "These NARCISS’ items left a great impression on me when I attended the Spring-Summer 2013 catwalk show. I love the different textures of the fabrics and play of sophisticated colours creating WOW-worth effect. The sheer, aquamarine and embroidered stripes add a playful accent overall."

As for what precisely the Spring-Summer 2014 collection has in store with regard to new innovations and catwalk-ready styles for admiring fashionistas, the online fashion boutique is remaining tight-lipped. However, with the fabrics, colours and silhouettes already decided and work now taking place on the initial designs, the new NARCISS (http://www.shopnarciss.com) range looks set to combine florals and nature-inspired prints and a wide range of separates into a suitably edgy and feminine whole.

Editor’s Note: NARCISS (http://www.shopnarciss.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Are you too intimidated to get involved in senior dating?

It’s one thing to look back with fondness at when you were young, including all of those sweet nothings uttered over the candle lights with an old beau, but it’s another thing to think that you couldn’t possibly enjoy those moments all over again once you enter your senior years. You might think that dating is a young man or woman’s game, but it is many ways becoming much less so, with even dedicated senior dating websites surfacing in recent times. But what else would Ask Granny (http://www.askgranny.com) tell you about looking for love in your later years?

In many ways, the advice is obvious, but no less true for being so. When you are dating, you really should be yourself, which is possibly even wiser advice for those in older age groups. For decades, you’ve developed your views on life and principles by which you live it, so there’s no reason to surrender all of that now, just to find someone. There’s a danger of readers of this senior citizens guide using all manner of excuses to deny themselves the chance of love, when the truth is that you’re never too old. You may still need to brush up on things like dating etiquette, however.

These days, it’s impossible for even grandparents to ignore the possibilities of the Internet for dating and many other products and services – as shown by the fact that you are reading this dedicated online guide for grandparents. However, you don’t have to choose the obvious dating websites if you don’t wish to. You may decide to start a profile on a dedicated senior dating website of the many that are now available, or even on a site that is built around those with a particular interest. Did you know that some sites are devoted to daters living in the countryside, for example? There are also local sites to consider.

Alternatively, you may be one of those who bemoans the all-powerful influence of online on the modern world. If you are, then don’t worry, you aren’t doomed to being a grumpy old (single) man or woman. That’s because there are loads of great settings in which readers of our grandparents blog could meet singles. It could be a community centre where you interact socially, the gym, a volunteer project or maybe the local church. Or what about taking up a continuing education or dance class, or joining a book club to get that grey matter working at the same time as meeting new people?

There are so many potential dating ideas, from going to the theatre or movies to taking a walk or even forking out for a lavish and romantic vacation together. The important message that the Ask Granny (http://www.askgranny.com) grandparents journal would leave you with, is this: you are definitely not shut out from dating simply because you are older. So have fun!

Editor’s Note: Ask Granny (http://www.askgranny.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Main Highlights Of The IYLO Croydon Development

The IYLO Croydon is a redevelopment that boasts a new residential skyscraper in the heart of Croydon.  Since renamed the “ISLAND” Croydon Development, the skyscraper is a welcome addition to a neighborhood with a rich history and diverse culture.  Croydon has been a center for innovation and development since year 1086 in which records report that Croydon was a thriving market town with a population of about 356 people.  In the early 1800s, Croydon began its reputation as a major center for transportation and commerce.  IYLO Croydon – ISLAND – is another step in making Croydon a world-class destination within London. 

Highlights for IYLO residents

Some of the main attractions and benefits for residents that choose to live in the new skyscraper are listed below:

·         ISLAND has a prime location in the heart of London’s retail and commerce.

·         Many opportunities for further development of the neighborhood overall.

·         Many people view purchasing property in ISLAND as a wise real estate investment due to the emerging opportunities for redevelopment. 

·         ISLAND is a shopping mecca for fashion-forward people, investors and entrepreneurs.

·         The neighborhood has long been known for unparalleled cultural diversity.

Besides work and play, ISLAND offers more practical opportunities for those looking to start families or those that already have children.  Croydon boasts top-notch state and private schools.   In addition, mass transit allows university students to have an easy commute from Croydon to major universities near the capital of London. 

Live a healthy lifestyle

New parks and areas for outdoor recreational activities are all part of the Croydon redevelopment.  IYLO allows residents easy access to various parks and woodlands.  No matter how dreary the weather might be, residents are more apt to go outside and admire frosty branches or splash through puddles in a pristine forest.  Instead of letting the weather get residents down, the natural beauty found nearby can easily make up for typical London weather.

Embrace a better kind of contemporary city living

ISLAND has everything one needs, including easy access to mass transit.  Some choose to move to IYLO Croydon to have an easy commute, whereas others find the development to be the perfect balance between easy accessibility for work and a place to relax after a long day.  Instead of feeling either cramped near noisy streets or too far away from the heart of London, find a new type of luxury urban living in Croydon.  Shop, work, invest, raise a family, and enjoy nature all in one place.  Sometimes, residents really can have everything in a highly desirable place to live.  ISLAND is a perfect example of just that.

Slow down the effects of ageing, with a little help from Gentlemen's Tonic

It is impossible to prevent ageing, but an intelligent plan and grooming procedure can at least play a part in delaying its effects. In keeping with its reputation as a unique establishment for discerning men, Gentlemen's Tonic (http://www.gentlemenstonic.com) offers a range of male grooming gifts that can assist against the worst effects of ageing, although there are also many 'common sense' tips that one can adopt.

These include keeping your brain stimulated, as there is evidence that a higher level of education can reduce incidences of Alzheimer's disease. It's therefore a good idea to keep your neurological pathways open by constantly challenging you brain, whether you simply read a lot, learn a new language or practice greater awareness of your surroundings. Diet also naturally has a great role to play, with many people still not getting their five servings of fruit and vegetables a day, while regular exercise has also been found to add up to two years to the life of the average man.

Much of a person's anxiety with regard to ageing can relate to anticipated or actual appearance changes, from increasing lines and wrinkles to discolouration. Environmental elements like sunlight and smoke can certainly contribute to photo-ageing of the skin, which is why it's such a good idea to get a strong preventative program underway. You could start by investing in Gentlemen's Tonic's own Mens Foaming Cleanser, which is suitable for all types of skin and gently cleanses the skin by lifting away excess oils and impurities. It offers a natural foaming action, with no foaming chemicals, while the key ingredients that it does contain include water chestnut, babassu oil, bergamot oil and alpine moss and quillaga.

This stage can be followed up by the twice-weekly use of a facial scrub, like our own Exfoliating Facial Scrub, to further cleanse the skin and ensure the removal of dead skin cells that dull the skin. The newly launched Exfoliating Facial Scrub from Gentlemen's Tonic uses bamboo particles as a natural and effective exfoliator. Containing naturally derived ingredients and harnessing the power of the rich oil found in the Babussu nut, this new product is a key part of an effective anti-ageing regime. Once the skin is properly clean, you can stimulate collagen synthesis and prevent photo-ageing with the application of a powerful antioxidant serum.

The next vital step is of course moisturising. Another new addition to the Gentlemen’s Tonic range is the Daily Moisturiser which is highly effective in soothing, moisturising and conditioning the skin. Suitable for all skin types, it is however particularly effective on dry, ageing or sensitive skin. Use it day or night to benefit from the soothing mix of Cocoa Butter and Babussu Oil; Gotu Kola with its anti-inflammatory qualities; and seaweed that helps to retain moisture and has mineral-rich qualities.

Finally, the new Soothing Aftershave Balm allows you to continue the fight against ageing even when shaving. Freshly shaved skin demands a product which will deliver in terms of moisture and rejuvenation, while avoiding sensitivity. This product which contains soothing cucumber and restorative Aloe Vera, among other key ingredients, ensures it delivers in all areas.

The intelligent use of such traditional male grooming products from Gentlemen's Tonic (http://www.gentlemenstonic.com) in conjunction with measures like regular exercise and taking the time to relax to reduce stress, can all form part of a highly effective plan for slowing down the worst aspects of ageing, giving you both a longer and happier life.

Editor’s Note: Gentlemen's Tonic (http://www.gentlemenstonic.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.