HomeArchives2023

Yearly Archives: 2023

The weekend is finally here, and we couldn’t be happier about it!

Even though the weather definitely isn’t the best at the minute, we’re still delighted that Friday evening has arrived at last.

As the working week draws to a close, we’re looking forward to settling in with some snacks, blankets and something great on the telly.

In particular, we’re definitely in the mood to watch a Richard Curtis film. The writer and director is responsible for some of our all-time favourite rom-coms, including the likes of Notting Hill, Love Actually and Four Weddings and a Funeral.

Credit: Universal

Luckily for us, RTÉ2 is showing one of the greatest Richard Curtis films tonight – About Time.

This beautiful film from 2013 stars Ireland’s very own Domhnall Gleeson as Tim, who on his 21st birthday, discovers a shocking family secret.

On his momentous day, Tim’s father (Bill Nighy) informs him that all of the men in their family have the ability to travel back in time. Of course, there are a few caveats and rules that he must follow, but for Tim, this news is life-changing.

Credit: Universal

He vows to use his brand-new gift to change the course of his failing love life. A few years later, he meets Mary (Rachel McAdams) in unusual circumstances. The pair hit it off and, with the help of his time-travelling advances, they begin a wonderful romance.

But, as Tim and Mary continue their relationship, will Tim’s gift do more harm than good?

Well, you’ll just have to watch and find out! About Time airs tonight at 9:30pm on RTÉ2.

Trending

Wedding bells are ringing for Olly Murs!

The former X Factor star is reportedly set to marry his fiancée Amelia Tank this weekend, 13 months after getting engaged.

It is believed that the couple will be marking their wedding on Essex's Osea Island this weekend, for a two-day, festival-themed celebration.

The island, which is owned by music producer Nigel Frieda, has been abuzz with preparations today for the couple’s nuptials. 

Credit: Olly Murs Instagram

In pictures obtained by MailOnline, it looks as though Osea Island has already been thoroughly decked out for the lavish occasion. 

Most notably, a huge outdoor stage has been set up for artists to perform the night before the couple's big day, with the words ‘Murs Fest’ penned at the top of the tent.

An extensive marquee has also arrived on the island, with stunning decorations such as glass chandaliers already set up inside.

To keep with the festival theme, a orange-striped merry-go-round has been pitched onto the island, which we’re certain the guests will enjoy!

Credit: Amelia Tank Instagram

Olly and Amelia first met through Instagram in 2019. The pair hit it off, but it wasn’t until the following year that they decided to go public with their romance.

The Dance With Me Tonight hitmaker popped the question to the bodybuilder on June 4 of last year, and the lovebirds chose to announce their engagement a few days later.

Both Olly and Amelia subsequently enjoyed fun-filled stag and hen parties last month, with the bride-to-be choosing to jet off to Marbella for her celebrations. 

Credit: Amelia Tank Instagram

In an interview with The Mirror last week, The Voice judge admitted that he had become obsessed with wedding planning.

“I'm a groomzilla. I never expected it, I thought I'd be the opposite. I'm like, 'No, no, no. Get rid of that, change that, move that,’” Olly exclaimed.

“I didn't know I cared so much about what the flowers look like but, honest to God, if I'm reincarnated, I'm coming back as a florist,” he joked.

Trending

Paige Thorne has opened up about her relationship history!

A few weeks ago, rumours began to fly that the former Love Island star used to be engaged to one of this year’s contestants, Scott van der Sluis.

Following the speculation, Paige promptly addressed the rumours at the time, noting that it was “false news” and that she had first met Scott “around 3 years ago through a friend whilst he was living in Swansea”.

However, the 25-year-old has now revealed that the pair do have a romantic history!

Credit: ITV

During an interview on this week’s episode of the Not My Baggs podcast, Paige was quizzed about all things Love Island, including who her favourites are.

After admitting that she would couple up with Zachariah Noble if she were to return to Love Island this year, Paige was then asked about her rumoured relationship with Scott.

“He’s not my ex ex, no. He’s not my ex, alright? That’s false narrative,” the paramedic insisted.

“So what it was – it was quite a while ago, before I was in a serious relationship, me and Scott were – yeah, we were dating,” she admitted.

Credit: ITV

The reality star then went on to admit that there was relationship potential between the two.

“It was like a talking stage for like three months. Back then, he will literally tell you, we would’ve been together, but he had to go away for football,” she explained, referring to Scott’s move to Dublin.

Paige also revealed that Scott told her before entering the villa that he would be appearing on the hit show.

Credit: ITV

“Obviously we chatted before he went in,” she hinted, adding that he asked her for tips ahead of his debut.

Lastly, hosts Joe and George Baggs questioned Paige once again on who she would couple up with.

“If I had to choose, if they stood in front of me, Zach and Scott – I’ll take Zach. But my loyalty does also lie a little bit with Scott,” she teased.

Trending

by

Victor Mee Auctions, the distinguished Cavan-based auction house, is pleased to announce its highly anticipated annual Summer Garden Sale, an online-only event taking place on July 18th and 19th. The carefully curated catalogue boasts over 800 lots of garden items, ranging from seating and tables to bronze statuary, planters, urns, and exterior fixtures.

One standout piece up for auction is a striking moulded stone French gazebo with a wrought iron top, estimated to be valued between €8000 and €12000. Additionally, the catalogue features a selection of sought-after Arras-style garden furniture, known for its hand-forged craftsmanship and distinctive claw or hoof feet. Notably, a large rectangular dining table with eight ribbed ladderback chairs is expected to fetch between €2500 and €4500.

Garden enthusiasts will also find teak Lutyens benches, inspired by the designs of architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. These benches, valued at €500 to €800 each, blend classic and contemporary elements, making them timeless additions to any outdoor space.

The Summer Garden Sale offers an array of garden statuary, including contemporary bronze sculptures with sleek lines and traditional bronze pieces such as majestic stags and charming hares. Water features are well-represented in the catalogue, with a notable highlight being a rare 19th-century cast iron two-tier fountain adorned with swans and a 20th-century moulded stone French surround embellished with shells, estimated at €2000 to €4000.

The Summer Garden Sale by Victor Mee Auctions caters to a growing trend of younger buyers seeking high-quality and enduring pieces for their outdoor spaces. The auction house takes pride in presenting a diverse catalogue that appeals to various tastes and budgets, providing buyers with the opportunity to invest in unique and durable items of provenance and sentiment.

Speaking of the annual Summer Garden Sale, the auctioneer Victor Mee said, “The Summer Garden Sale is a highly anticipated event at Victor Mee Auctions. We take pride in surpassing expectations by curating an exceptional selection of high-quality lots that cater to diverse tastes and budgets. Our exclusive catalogue showcases the dedication and effort put forth by our team. We have noticed a growing trend among younger buyers who appreciate the value of investing in unique and durable pieces, which not only appreciate in monetary worth but also hold sentimental and historical significance.”

Prospective buyers can view the full catalogue and register to bid on the Victor Mee Auctions website, www.victormeeauctions.ie. The Summer Garden Sale by Victor Mee Auctions takes place on Tuesday July 18th and Wednesday July 19th live online from 5:30pm.

In person viewing of the catalogue will take place at the Victor Mee Auctions auction rooms at Cloverhill, Co. Cavan on Friday July 14th from 10am – 5pm, Saturday July 15th and Sunday July 16th from 12pm – 6pm, and Monday July 17th from 10am – 5pm.

Trending

Karlie Kloss is now a mum-of-two!

The model has welcomed her second child into the world, alongside her husband Joshua Kushner.

The couple’s new addition to the family joins their two-year-old son Levi Joseph.

Joshua took to Instagram last night to share the wonderful news. The 38-year-old dad posted a heartwarming first snap of the newborn, wearing a tiny blue beanie.

Credit: Joshua Kushner Instagram

“Welcome to [the world],” Joshua penned in his caption, alongside a red heart emoji.

The businessman also confirmed that his little one was born on July 11. However, Karlie and Joshua have yet to officially reveal the name of their newest arrival.

Many famous faces have since sent their best wishes to the family-of-four.

“Congrats!!!!” gushed reality star Kim Kardashian in the comments section.

Credit: Karlie Kloss Instagram

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg showcased his congratulations by replying with three love hearts.

“Congratulations!!!” added tennis player Caroline Wozniacki.

Karlie and Joshua initially announced their pregnancy on May 1, as Karlie chose to debut her growing baby bump at the prestigious Met Gala. Before she took to the red carpet, the former Victoria’s Secret Angel teased her pregnancy news by posting some candid snaps of her Met Gala outfit.

“baby’s first Met,” Karlie joked in the caption at the time.

Credit: Karlie Kloss Instagram

Karlie has previously gushed about her experiences with motherhood. Speaking to Today in April 2022 about her son Levi’s birth, she exclaimed: "I just had this moment of like, ‘Wow, every woman who has a child, every parent goes through this. It's just the most profound experience that I had no idea until having a kid."

Karlie and Joshua first confirmed their relationship in November 2012. After six years of dating, the pair got engaged in July 2018.

The couple took no time to tie the knot, as they got married just three months into their engagement. Afterwards, they hosted a second, more glamorous wedding in July 2019.

Karlie and Joshua later became parents for the first time in March 2021 when son Levi was born.

Trending

Stacey Solomon has been opening up about some big life changes in the Solomon-Swash household!

The Sort Your Life Out presenter took to her Instagram stories last night to have a candid chat with her followers about her children. 

Stacey is a mum to five kids – eldest sons Zachary (15) and Leighton (11) from previous relationships, as well as youngsters Rex (4), Rose (1) and five-month-old Belle, who she shares with husband Joe Swash.

Credit: Stacey Solomon Instagram

In several clips to her 5.7M followers, the 33-year-old opened up about her childrens’ huge school changes.

“I feel really hormonal and emotional today, I think it’s all the school transitions,” Stacey began.

“I think it’s because it’s coming to the last week of term. I keep getting newsletters and notifications that are just making me really sad,” she continued.

Stacey then went on to detail what each child is going through. “Rex going to school is almost a relief, because I feel like he’s getting such a big boy – he really needs it at this point,” she explained.

Credit: Stacey Solomon Instagram

“Whereas Rose going to nursery is quite sad, because I feel like she has been a baby for 0.5 seconds,” she added. 

However, Stacey noted that one of her eldest sons is going through a huge transition. 

“The worst of them all is Leighton going to seniors,” she confessed.

Credit: Stacey Solomon Instagram

“It’s because I know what’s going to happen,” the former X Factor star continued. “I wasn’t ready for what happened to Zach when he went to seniors because he was my first, and now I know what’s coming, it’s just making me literally so emotional.”

“In primary, they’re still these young, innocent little kids, and then they go through puberty and they’re in senior school for a couple of years, and then all of a sudden, they’re fully grown adults,” Stacey laughed through tears.

“It’s coming to the end of term and the end of an era with Leighton,” Stacey concluded in her chat, adding: “He’s about to be a big boy.”

Trending

Love Island stars have been reacting to some surprising news about the Barbie movie!

It has been revealed that one of the hit ITV dating show’s former stars, Christopher Taylor, has a role in the upcoming Greta Gerwig film.

Chris, who was a bombshell in the 2019 season of Love Island and has previously dated Maura Higgins, confirmed the exciting news last night.

The 32-year-old attended the London premiere of the movie on Wednesday night, alongside Hollywood stars such as Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling.

Credit: Christopher Taylor Instagram / John Phillips Getty

Following his debut on the red carpet, Chris has now taken to social media to share the big reveal.

“This WILL sound made up…but I’m in the ACTUAL Barbie Film,” he exclaimed in his caption, alongside several snaps from the premiere.

“No bloody idea how, but here we are…I’m an actual Ken (I talk a lot of s**te so swipe for evidence),” he continued teasingly.

“Wish I had more to say about this, but I still think I’ve imagined it. Thank you to the person who made this happen, you know who you are, you glorious ray of human sunshine,” he penned.

Credit: Christopher Taylor Instagram

“Anyway, Barbie is in cinema’s next Friday 21st July, get it booked and try not to blink for too long around the middle of the film, quick blinks,” Chris concluded.

Many of Chris’ fellow Love Island alum have since taken to his comments section to express their shock.

“Saw you walk in before they screened it and double took! Hi Ken! X,” wrote former host Laura Whitmore.

“I saw you yesterday with the cast and was so confused,” laughed 2021 winner Liam Reardon.

Credit: Christopher Taylor Instagram

“Proud to say I trained the best Ken in the movie,” joked Michael Griffiths, who starred in the 2019 series alongside Chris.

The surprising news comes after Barbie’s main star, Margot Robbie, has confessed to being a Love Island superfan. For her 31st birthday, the 33-year-old even hosted a Love Island themed party!

“I mean, honestly, if you start, I will not stop talking about Love Island. There's so much I have to say about it,” Margot teased in an interview with People in 2021.

Trending

by

Ever since the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid was released in cinemas in May, we’ve been obsessed with the concept of ‘mermaid core’.

This trend has only been getting more and more popular in the beauty and fashion industries, and we can totally see why! With its pretty pastel shades, delicate designs and dainty details, these looks make us feel like we can be just like Princess Ariel.

With the summer vibes continuing, we think there’s no better time to give our nails a well-earned refresh and to have a look at some new designs.

With ‘mermaid core’ fresh in our minds at the minute, we’re on the hunt for a set of nails that can give us all the mermaid vibes.

So, with that said, we’ve scoured through Instagram and curated a list of some of our favourite nail designs that are guaranteed to make you wish you were ‘Under The Sea’! From mermaid scales to seashell stick-ons, you’ll fall in love with these art picks:

Credit: cynvixiousnails Instagram

First up, we have these gorgeous press-ons! The overall blue ombré is like something straight out of the ocean, but it’s the middle finger’s clamshell design that caught our eye. Plus, we love the tiny details of the seashells and pearls at the cuticles. 

Credit: kitty_klawsss Instagram

These nails are a pearly dream! The pastel nude makes them a perfect shade for everyday wear, and the gold detailing adds a lovely little bit of glam.

Credit: louiseannabel.nailartistry Instagram

These nail designs are all about the multicolours! With its glittery shades and scale-like patterns, this set will always be an absolute winner with us.

Credit: zsofinails_ Instagram

This design looks something straight out of a mermaid’s tail! The green-blue shade is super flattering, and the glistening of the ‘scales’ is mesmerising when the spotlight is on them.

Credit: _melll.y Instagram

Last but not least, we couldn’t help but fall in love with this set! The baby pink shade is perfect for this time of year, and we adore the soft blue at the top to make it look like waves crashing onto sand. Plus, the pearls and gold sea figures top the whole design off wonderfully!

Trending

Congratulations, you’ve made it to Thursday!

The weekend is within touching distance now, and we don’t know about you, but we feel like we’ve certainly earned it. Between our hectic schedules and the constant dodging of rain showers, we’ve been absolutely exhausted this week.

So, tonight, we feel like treating ourselves to a wonderful film to celebrate the weekend being on the horizon… but what should we watch?

Well, luckily for us, BBC One is treating us to the perfect option tonight!

This evening, the broadcaster will be airing one of our all-time favourite Saoirse Ronan films – Brooklyn.

Based on the novel by Colm Toibin, this 2015 tearjerker follows Saoirse’s character Eilis in the 1950s, as she decides to leave her native Ireland and emigrate to New York.

While settling in her new life in Brooklyn, Eilis falls for a charming Italian-American named Tony. 

The pair enter into a whirlwind romance together, but when a tragedy strikes in Ireland, Eilis must suddenly go back home.

As Eilis returns to the life she left behind, she starts to second-guess her decision to emigrate. Will she choose to stay in the comfort of her hometown, or will she take the leap and return to her life with Tony?

There’s only one way to find out! With an all-star cast joining Saoirse (including the likes of Julie Walters and Domhnall Gleeson), this one is a must-watch.

Brooklyn airs tonight at 11:10pm on BBC One, so grab some popcorn and enjoy!

Trending

THE BEAR is back! The stress-inducing kitchen-based drama took the world by storm last year returns this month and it has officially achieved critical acclaim in the US where it has already dropped. The new season will follow Carmy, Sydney and Richie as they work to transform their sandwich joint into a next-level spot.

The synopsis for the new season says: "As they strip the restaurant down to its bones, the crew undertakes transformational journeys of their own, each forced to confront the past and reckon with who they want to be in the future.

"Of course, it turns out the only thing harder than running a restaurant is opening a new one, and the team must juggle the insane bureaucracy of permits and contractors with the beauty and creative agony of menu planning.

"The transition brings a newfound focus on hospitality as well. As the entire staff is forced to come together in new ways, pushing the boundaries of their abilities and relationships, they also learn what it means to be in service, both to diners and each other."

THE BEAR, SEASON 2 launches in Ireland and the UK on Disney+ on July 19 and to celebrate, Disney+ invited a mix of chefs, food bloggers, influencers and press to a special sneak peek of Episodes 1 and 2 at Crudo in Sandymount. Crudo has been named Best Casual Dining All Ireland, 2023 and was the perfect spot to launch the THE BEAR which has received 5 nominations for the 2023 Emmy’s.

Guests from the food world enjoyed some culinary delights prior to the Irish premiere screening of the first two episodes of season two of the critically acclaimed series.

Jamie McCarthy & Sean Crescenzi of Crudo
 
Marcus O'Laoire and Rachael Lord
 
The Foodie Twins Jess and Rachel
 
Joe Macken and Colm Keane
 
Patrick Hanlon and Russell Alford
 
Sian Conway and Shamim De Brún
 
Chritiana Flynn and Donal Loughlin
 
Corina Gaffey and Dillon St. Paul
 
Adrian Martin
 
Gillian Nelis
 
Nicole Douglas
 

THE BEAR | SEASON 2 | All episodes launch July 19 only on Disney+ and we cannot wait!

Trending

Mark your calendars this weekend as Sunday, 16th July is officially National Ice Cream Day – one of the tastiest days of the year. While the weather is awful, there is always a good reason to enjoy icecream and Lidl Ireland have the full scoop on how you can treat yourself this weekend. Celebrate this Sunday in style with Lidl’s wide range of ice cream products, available in stores nationwide.

For those who want to indulge Lidl’s Gelatelli Premium Speculoo Ice Sticks will make you melt. These luscious ice creams are coated in a sweetly spiced biscuit sauce and a layer of milk chocolate with biscuit pieces, priced at only €2.49.

Lidl Ireland has the perfect option if you’re sharing or entertaining this weekend with the scrumptious Swirled Ice Cream tubs (€2.09). Choose between a number of flavours including Caramel & Vanilla, Mint Choc Chip and Cookies & Cream, something to keep everyone happy.

For a low-calorie option, why not try Lidl’s Low-Calorie Ice Cream Tubs (€2.89) available in a range of delicious flavours to choose from. Made with real Dairy Farm Irish Cream with less than 300 calories per tub, this budget-friendly ice-cream is also high in protein – a perfect post-workout treat.

If you want to get creative with your flavourings, choose our luxurious Salted Caramel Cones (€2.09) that are topped with caramel sauce, chocolate flavour glaze and caramelised sugar pieces. If you’re looking for something rich yet comforting, try Lidl’s Vanilla Bourbon Ice-Cream (€3.99), you can’t go wrong with this classic vanilla flavour.

Go Full Lidl this National Ice Cream Day for top-quality ice cream products at affordable prices, available across Lidl stores nationwide, while stocks last. For more information, and to view the latest instore offers, please visit www.lidl.ie.

Trending

Another ex has entered the Love Island villa!

Last night, viewers of the hit ITV dating show were shocked when it was revealed that one of Tyrique’s former flames will be joining the Islanders as a bombshell.

Not only that, but her name is also Ella – sharing the same name as Tyrique’s current partner.

The 23-year-old blonde bombshell is set to enter the villa tonight in dramatic fashion, alongside fellow new contestant Josh.

Credit: ITV

In the first look for tonight’s edition of Love Island, viewers have already been treated to a glimpse of Ella B’s arrival.

“So, I know Tyrique,” Ella admits to fellow bombshell Josh, as she delves deep into the pair’s history.

“Yeah, we’ve chatted, we’ve kissed. I saw him quite recently,” Ella continues in her conversation.

“Poor guy has just f***ing settled down and now you’ve just come in,” exclaims Josh with a laugh.

Credit: ITV

Ella then goes on to express her confidence in being able to turn Tyrique’s head.

“Nah, do you know what? I know he’s fully closed off with her, but they’ve had a few bumps in the road,” Ella teases before adding: “But with me, it’ll be an easy ride.”

The bombshell concludes: “Me and him have history, and I feel like if there’s only one person to turn his head, it will be me. It’s just going to be the battle of the Ellas now.”

Credit: ITV

Tonight’s episode of Love Island will also pick up from last night’s dramatic cliffhanger. Following the shock dumping of Catherine and Elom as the least compatible couple, the Islanders presumed that no one else would be leaving that night.

However, they later received a second text, explaining that Leah and Montel, Sammy and Jess, and Kady and Ouzy were also the least voted couples, and that one more pairing will be leaving – but who will it be?

Find out when Love Island airs tonight at 9pm on Virgin Media Two.

Trending