Kellie Shirley has shared an insight into her birth story with her baby boy, Ezra, and is opening up about her life now as a mum-of-three.
The EastEnders actress, known for her role as Carly Wicks on the BBC soap, welcomed the birth of her third child in March of this year.
Now, speaking to OK!, Kellie says she “feels very lucky” since baby Ezra made his arrival into the world.
“It’s like being on happy pills. It’s so all-consuming. You’re so full of love – and knackered – but you get those moments when Ezra does what looks like a smile and you forget that you’ve been up since 3am. It’s just lovely”.
The soap star welcomed Ezra via C-section as she felt it was safer after being diagnosed with strep B during her pregnancy because the bacteria could’ve been passed to her little one during labour otherwise.
“They can give you antibiotics if you want to give birth naturally, but it felt like the safer option, and I had a Caesarean last time”.
Revealing she felt it was easier giving birth to Ezra than her twins she explained, “Last time I went to 9cm and caught an infection and it was just so nuts. So it was a very different experience going in with my bag, knowing he would be born that day”.
The 41-year-old went on to detail her labour, which she had photographed, and she could hear her baby crying from within her womb.
“He was crying from within the womb. As they were cutting through to the last layer, they were like, ‘Can you hear him?’ It was mad”.
“We’ve got some great photographs of him being born – it looks almost biblical. The moment he was born I burst into tears”.
“I felt speechless, watching this little human being that I’ve been growing coming out of my body. It’s this massive whoosh of love and hormones, and everything is so heightened and intense. It’s amazing. I was a right mess!”.
Explaining how she and her husband Phil Davies chose their bundle of joy’s name, Shirley shared the fun way they decided.
“When we discussed names, we decided to go, ‘One, two, three…’ and say our favourite name out loud. We both said ‘Ezra’ at the same time and we couldn’t believe it”.
“We hadn’t spoken about the name before and were like, ‘What are the chances?’”.
Kellie and Phil are already proud parents to seven-year-old twins Pearl and Louie, who Kellie reveals have been a great help since the arrival of their little brother.
No7, the number one skincare brand sold in Boots, has announced the launch of No7 Future Renew; a collection of four skincare products proven to reverse the appearance of multiple signs of skin damage. The range contains a new ‘super peptide’ blend that is proven to harness the skin’s natural repair process and the renewal of over 50 key proteins in skin cells. The super peptide blend – which represents the biggest cosmetic science innovation in No7’s history – contains two brand-new chemical entities, a patent-pending world-first technology that cannot be found in any other product.
No7 Future Renew and its super-peptide blend have been developed following 15 years of research and innovation using scientific methods and approaches that are more akin to medical research and rarely seen in cosmetic product development. The new peptide blend was developed using cutting-edge R&D across several fields of science and technology including advanced robotics, mathematical modelling, bioinformatics, machine learning, cell biology and cosmetic science.
No7’s new super peptide is set to be one of the most effective and tolerated skincare ingredients on the cosmetic market. Unlike retinoic acid, which is known by dermatologists to cause tolerance challenges such as skin sensitivity and redness, No7's new super peptide is both highly potent and highly tolerated, being suitable even for those with sensitive skin. This paves the way to highly effective skincare being available to even more people.
The No7 Future Renew range has undergone the most extensive and diverse testing programme in No7’s history – 37 studies on over 4,200 people, including two clinical trials and 23 user trials. More than half (51%) of the total testing group had skin of colour.
At the heart of the collection is the No7 Future Renew Damage Reversal Serum, clinically proven in a blinded split-face controlled trial to reverse the appearance of multiple signs of skin damage across a range of skin types and tones, including fine lines, wrinkles, lack of luminosity, dryness, uneven skin tone and loss of firmness. 97% of women in the clinical study had improvements in the appearance of multiple (3 or more) visible signs of skin damage. Patent applications have been submitted and are pending for both the new peptides and the delivery system found within the serum.
“Skin damage happens throughout our lives and is caused by multiple factors including sun exposure, environmental pollution, stress, sleep, temperature and nutrition,” said No7’s Head of Science Research Dr Mike Bell. “The new peptide blend effectively tricks the skin into thinking that it has been damaged which leads to renewal of key proteins such as collagen and fibrillin. It therefore supports skin’s natural self-repair mechanisms, targeting signs of cumulative damage both on and under the surface. This is a world-first technology only available from No7. We believe it is going to be a game changer for consumers.”
The new super peptide technology has been met with excitement from the global scientific community with the technology being presented at three world-leading scientific conferences this Spring including the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Conference in Louisiana, the British Society for Investigative Dermatology (BSID) Annual Meeting in Glasgow and the International Societies for Investigative Dermatology (ISID) meeting in Tokyo.
No7 Brand Ambassador, singer-songwriter, Sharon Corr, added: “I am so proud to work with such an established brand as No7 to launch the new No7 Future Renew range. With 15 years of scientific research behind the discovery of a new super-peptide blend, it’s a really exciting time for No7 in bringing this world-first technology to the market. Since I started using the range some weeks ago it has become the foundation of my daily skincare routine and is a pleasure to use.”
The No7 Future Renew range will be available nationwide at Boots stores, Boots.ie/no7 from 12th April, 2023. Dermatologically approved, the range comprises:
No7 Future Renew Serum is proven to reverse visible signs of skin damage in just four weeks. Visible signs of skin damage include the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, uneven tone and texture, dry skin, and less elastic and firm feeling skin.
It contains No7’s new super peptide blend, as well as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, mulberry and hydrolysed rice proteins.
No7 Future Renew Day Cream is proven to protect against UV and reverse visible signs of skin damage, such as the feeling of dryness and loss of elasticity.It contains SPF40 for damage prevention, No7’s new super peptide blend, an antioxidant blend, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and rice proteins.
It intensely moisturises the skin for up to 72 hours, and within one week of use, users reported brighter, healthier, more supple skin.
No7 FUTURE RENEW DAMAGE REVERSAL NIGHT CREAM 50ml – €44.95
No7 Future Renew Night Cream is expertly formulated to support skin's natural self-repair process while sleeping and reverse visible signs of skin damage.It contains the new super peptide blend, along with other key nourishing ingredients including shea butter, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.
This night cream helps reverse the appearance of uneven tone and texture, dry skin and lost elasticity. It deeply moisturises for up to 72 hours, and delivers instant results with more nourished, softer and smoother skin. In as little as one week, users reported their skin felt supple and texture more even.
The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than elsewhere on the face, meaning it is more susceptible to damage. Expertly developed for the delicate eye area, No7 Future Renew Eye Serum reverses visible signs of skin damage in eight weeks.
In addition to No7's super peptide blend, the eye serum also contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, an antioxidant blend and rice proteins. In one week, the appearance of fine lines is reduced, and after four weeks, the appearance of wrinkles and puffiness is reduced, and skin tone looks more even.
When it comes to skincare, there’s a myriad of products and a multitude of ingredients out there. Add in the latest skincare trends, like ten-step Korean inspired facial regimens and the newest TikTok crazes like skin slugging and skin flooding and somehow a simple cleanse, tone and moisturise no longer feels like it’s going to cut it. But according to the skincare experts, things don’t have to be complicated, some of the most important factors in skincare include simplicity and consistency.
With that in mind, Neutrogena Hydro Boost offers everything you need for a pared back, hydrating skincare routine from day to night, that’s backed by science. The experts behind the range maintain that a regular and consistent skincare routine, starting today can really deliver everything you need in hydration and in turn a more energised and brighter looking complexion by the time summer starts to bloom. With hydration being the foundation of healthy-looking skin, April showers can really bring May flowers. A month of commitment to a hydrating range like Hydro Boost can deliver real transformation in terms of a flourishing, hydrated complexion and healthy-looking glow.
With so much choice on offer in skincare, the temptation can be to chop and change your products and try new things, but according to Neutrogena Skincare Expert, Rebecca Bennet, less is often more, with the magic number being 28 days when it comes to road testing a product. “Dermatologists note an increasing number of people coming to them with red and dry or scaly skin, on their bodies as well as faces. When asked about their skincare routines, clients are bringing out 30 products – they’re exfoliating with scrubs and acids, and piling on serums and peels. Sometimes skin just can’t take this amount of attention. Layering too many products can lead to sensitivity, redness, soreness and dryness; it can damage your skin in the short term and may also leave it open to sensitivity in the long term,” says Rebecca.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturiser
Paring back your skincare routine to core products offering effective, science backed formulas could be the kinder option for your skin. The much-loved Neutrogena Hydro Boost range is powered by hyaluronic acid with formulas that are dermatologically tested, simple facecare solutions that offer outstanding results in hydration. Working with an intelligent system consisting of an innovative hyaluronic gel matrix to provide constant hydration by the minute, the Hydro Boost range has been developed through extensive research to understand exactly where the skin needs moisture and how to deliver intense hydration to the specific areas where it is needed the most.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Sleeping Cream
“Cleansing, toning and moisturising can of course be enough if you are using good quality products and if you are intentional about sticking to a regular and consistent routine. Skincare doesn’t have to be expensive, but it does have to be a commitment,” says Rebecca. “As skin takes around 28 days to renew itself from the bottom layers to the top, you should give any new product four to six weeks before evaluating its effects. A moisturiser will give a real feeling of comfort and immediately quench the skin, but for maximum benefits you need to use it consistently long term to reap the benefits. If you’re not already using them, a serum massaged onto clean, damp skin, followed by a moisturiser daily, morning and night can really make a difference to your skin. Try it for a month and see!”
For a super effective serum that’s a powerhouse of hydrating ingredients, the Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Concentrated Serum offers the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid within the Hydro Boost range, along with pro-Vitamin B5 and glycerin, which is a hydrator found naturally in the skin. Massage 3-4 drops onto clean, damp skin morning and evening, before applying day or night-time moisturiser, to leave skin feeling instantly quenched, smooth and supple.
For a light but effective moisturiser, Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturiser offers the long lasting, intense nourishing power of a cream in a light formula that absorbs instantly and keeps skin hydrated all day. With the smart combination of two water-binding ingredients – hyaluronic acid and botanical trehalose – the formula helps to preserve the moisture barrier so your skin is able to retain hydration it would otherwise lose.
Replenishing the skin’s water reserves not only gives a hydrated complexion but a healthy glow. As Rebecca adds “If your skin is optimally moisturised, the cells are lying flat and have moisture in them, the light bounces off evenly and your skin looks more glowing as a result. The weather, whatever the season, can be unkind and drying on the skin, so moisture is key for a lovely, year-round glow. But sun protection is also vital, whatever the season and shouldn’t be neglected even on overcast days as 70-80% of the sun’s rays penetrate clouds and fog.”
Neutrogena Hydro Boost City Shield SPF25
Neutrogena Hydro Boost City Shield Hydrating Lotion SPF25 is developed with Helioplex® technology to deliver broad spectrum protection, shielding against both UVA and UVB that can cause premature ageing. Like the rest of the range, it not only delivers intense hydration, but also strengthens the skin barrier day after day so it can actively defend against external aggressors.
With innovative cleansers to wash away the day and a sleeping cream to replenish through the night, the skin quenching Hydro Boost range, powered by hyaluronic acid, is like a breath of fresh air for skin with straight forward skincare solutions offering round the clock hydration. Available from Lloyds, McCabes, Hickeys and independent pharmacies nationwide:
The Eminence brand, which has been around since 1958, takes farming and clean beauty practices into consideration with every product it creates. For instance, some of the ingredients utilized in its formulas are even good enough to eat (looking at you, pineapples). Eminence is also all about giving back to the environment — for every product sold, a tree is planted.
Knowing all of that, along with the fact that we are always looking for new products to try that will keep dry, sensitive and hyperpigmentation-prone skin in check, we find ourselves turning to Eminence, specifically its Tropical Superfood Collection. The products in the lineup calm, hydrate and brighten the skin without ever stripping or over-exfoliating it which is why, they deserve a permanent place in my skin-care routine.
If your skin is looking lacklustre, it's time to supercharge that glow. The new Tropical Superfood Collection harnesses the power of superfoods with the invigorating formulas below. The Collection offers a refreshing lineup of products that easily integrates into your current skin care routine and pairs exfoliating PHA (polyhydroxy acid) with vitamin-rich botanicals to address dull and tired skin.
Pineapple Refining Tonique – RRP €59
Refresh your routine with a sweetly scented pineapple tonique! PHA, bromelain and tranexamic acid team up to visibly renew dull, textured skin without irritation. This tonique is designed to exfoliate, brighten and hydrate while preparing skin for the next step in your daily ritual. This mild exfoliating tonique is great for all skin types and can be used daily.
The Tonique promotes a smooth, even-looking skin tone and radiant appearance bringing it to the optimal pH. It helps prepare the skin for better absorption of other ingredients and helps brighten the look of the skin, minimise the appearance of dark spots, unclogs pores and hydrates the skin.
Key Ingredients:
Bromelain: A gentle yet effective exfoliant, derived from the fruit and stem of the pineapple plant. Enzymes soften the skin by removing dead skin cells with minimal irritation while also helping to increase the look of elasticity in the skin.
Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA): A gentle yet effective exfoliant that noticeably renews the feel of the skin while targeting dryness and the visible signs of aging.
Tranexamic Acid: This enlivening ingredient results in skin that appears brightened while also helping to reduce the visible appearance of dark spots.
Superfood Booster-Powder – RRP €68
The Superfood Booster-Powder contains wonder ingredient Kakadu Plum, a tart fruit that’s a potent botanical source of naturally occurring Vitamin C to promote visibly healthy-looking skin as well as Coix Seed. This is a botanical source of niacinamide (vitamin B3), which works to brighten and enhance the look of skin tone, spirulina a botanical source of vitamin K that can help the skin appear stronger and sweet potato which contains high levels of beta-carotene help the skin look and feel rejuvenated. Just add a spoonful to your favourite cream moisturiser and give your skin a healthy, natural glow.
Key Ingredients:
Kakadu Plum: This tart fruit is a potent botanical source of naturally occurring Vitamin C to promote visibly healthy-looking skin. This ingredient contains powerful antioxidants to help minimise the appearance of dark spots on the skin.
Coix Seed: A botanical source of niacinamide (Vitamin B3), which works to brighten and enhance the look of skin tone.
Spirulina: This blue-green algae is a botanical source of Vitamin K; its high nutrient and mineral content can help the skin appear stronger.
Sweet Potato: High levels of beta-carotene help the skin look and feel rejuvenated. Sweet potato is rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins, which help reduce the visible signs of aging due to drying environmental stressors.
Yuzu Solid Body Oil – RRP €69
The new Yuzu Solid Body Oil is a luxurious body oil that deeply hydrates revealing glowing, supple and visibly rejuvenated skin. It actively targets the appearance of rough and bumpy skin leaving the skin smooth. This transformative solid body oil infuses dry, dull skin with dreamy yuzu and vitamin-rich camu camu for radiant skin from every angle. Refining PHA and lush tropical oils enhance hydration for all skin types to leave you with supple, glowing skin.
Key Ingredients:
Yuzu: This tart and aromatic citrus fruit is chock full of strong antioxidants that promote the appearance of firmness and improved elasticity to help visibly renew the skin.
Buriti Oil: Buriti Oil is rich in essential fatty acids, carotenoids and omegas 3, 6 and 9 to nourish and replenish the look of the skin. This antioxidant-rich oil provides deep hydration and improves the appearance of the skin’s elasticity.
Passion Fruit Seed Oil: This oil contains a high concentration of antioxidants and omegas 6 and 9 to promote the appearance of a nourished, radiant glow. This rich oil is fast absorbing and readily penetrates the skin to provide deep moisture and a visible reduction of dryness in the skin.
Camu Camu: This superfood berry is rich in Vitamin C that acts as a powerful antioxidant, targeting the appearance of an uneven skin tone.
Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA): A gentle yet effective exfoliant that noticeably renews the feel of the skin while targeting dryness and the visible signs of aging.
One of the key reasons we love the Eminence brand is for their green credentials. You can read more about what they do here.
And if that isn’t enough, the list below, is what celebrities have shared as to why they love the brand:
Eminence does not (and never has) used microbeads
Eminence does not (and never has) tested on animals
Eminence ingredients are vegetable-based
Eminence plants a tree for every product sold with 22 million Sold to date
Eminence has a programme that provides sick children with fresh fruit and vegetables
Eminence uses wind and solar energy to produce its products
This Earth Day Google has launched a new Earth Day Doodle. The animated GIF Doodle is made from real leaves and highlights how individuals and communities can work together in big and small ways to take action against climate change.
When you are online, if you click on the Doodle, it links to the query climate change.
The Doodle depicts a spectrum of actions people can take in their day-to-day that can add up to make a real difference.
Air drying laundry instead of using the dryer
Planting trees and cultivating individual or community gardens
Opting for alternative energy sources, such as solar panels
Choosing a plant-based diet or plant-based options when possible
Biking or walking instead of driving when possible
Recycling
This Google doodle, built around the search giant's logo, is its latest celebration of Earth Day, started 53 years ago to raise awareness of and appreciation for the natural world.
Although some commentators have questioned the effectiveness of the awareness day, the first Earth Day on 22 April 1970 was credited with launching the modern environmental movement.
In the words of its organisers, it is designed to "[activate] individuals and organisations to strengthen the collective fight against man's exploitive relationship with the planet."
Google has also shared the Top Trending climate change topics in Ireland*.
Flea market
Drought
Environmental, social and corporate governance
Wind turbine
Solar energy
Climate
Heat wave
Tropical cyclone
Wind power
Greenhouse gas emission
Google has series plans to ensure they are playing a part in the Climate Crisis. Alphabet, the company which operates the Google search engine, claims to have been carbon neutral since 2007 and plans to operate all its data centres entirely on renewable energy by 2030.
Today is International Earth Day 2023 and it arrives as a stark reminder of our worsening climate crisis and the limited time left we have to minimise the now unavoidable damage. County Meath based business The Handmade Soap Company has been a standout Irish sustainability success story since the day it was founded by husband and wife team, Donagh and Gemma Quigley, in 2008. The company’s mantra has always been that ‘kindness comes naturally’. While the brand has grown over the years, what has never faltered is their unyielding commitment to this kindness. Kindness to their team, kindness to our skin with the products they make and kindness to our planet.
In a time of greenwashing, The Handmade Soap Company boast the world’s most recognised accreditations to prove their commitment to being as sustainable, and environmentally friendly, as possible. All products in The Handmade Soap Company’s entire line are certified ECOCERT COSMOS natural & organic, guaranteeing all were made by environmentally friendly processes and materials, and contain only natural ingredients. The brand recently became one of few Irish businesses to be awarded the international B Corp accreditation, the leading world-wide business recognition that verifies social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency. To name just a few of their sustainability accolades.
Donagh Quigley, Co-founder The Handmade Soap Company
In celebration of World Earth Day 2023, the founder of a B Corp certified business and Ireland’s greenest brand, recommends his:
Top 5 changes you can make in your everyday life that will reduce your impact on the planet
Be hopeful:
Donagh believes that we need to change our way of thinking about how to move forward in the fight against climate change. You need to believe that a sustainable future is attainable in order to implement positive change in your life. Donagh states:
“You need to give yourself a vision that a sustainable future is both possible and attainable. For me reading a few books with an ideal possible future, with a roadmap there, really helped. Two books, in particular that really stand and will inspire any climate pessimist to find hope are: ‘How to Avoid a Climate Disaster’ by Bill Gates and ‘Net Positive’ by Paul Polman.
Develop a Plan:
There are so many simple ways in which we can integrate sustainable practices into our day-to-day lives. From trying to buy 50% of your groceries from producers within 30 miles of where you live and minimising the amount of products you purchase with plastic packaging, such as clothing and vegetables, there are endless changes we can all make. Donagh explains:
“We are not going to turn our lives around in a week so develop a personal roadmap for lifestyle changes that you can implement over time. If you start to layer lots of small habits on top of each other, then big changes begin to happen. Pick your battles wisely and do what you can. What's right for one person might not work for another. Pick the things you can do and spend more time doing them, rather than worrying about the things you can’t.”
“Sustainability is a holistic, all-encompassing commitment to a better future. It’s not always easy, cheap, or without difficulties. But it is always, always worth it.”
Easy small change: Consider using refillable handwash & lotion bottles – they
are available in the Anam range from The Handmade Soap Company
Take some action, however small:
If you are one of the many people that has anxiety around the climate crisis, taking small steps may help you to feel more in control and at least you are doing all that you can to help change the course of action, as every little thing helps in the grand scheme of things.
“Action of any kind produces a whole raft of chemical reactions in the body that can make us feel better and so start creating positive feedback loops. It is so easy to feel helpless in the information onslaught that is all around us. Environmental anxiety can easily lead to ‘that’s just too hard to think about so I will do nothing’. Take action and then let yourself feel good for taking it. You deserve it.”
Monitor your Media:
In a world where so many people consume their news via the internet and social media, it is important that when you are researching or reading anything, make sure that you are reading from informed and up-to-date sources. Try not to fall victim to clickbait articles from unreliable sources or unverified statements you spot while scrolling".
“Be mindful of what you listen to and the kind of information you absorb. We tend to only ever see one side of the story. We all absorb negative news much more easily than positive news. Seek out the positive stories, they are out there. A great newsletter is ‘Reasons to be Cheerful’ . It was established by David Byrne of Talking Heads and reports positive environmental stories. Hearing the positive environmental stories that are happening everyday will keep you motivated on your sustainable journey.”
Have fun while embracing change:
Do your best and have fun embracing change!
“Create and label recycling bins with your kids at home, so that the process is easier for everyone. Plant a garden, and get outside more, the only thing certain in this life is that nothing stays the same. Do what you can and enjoy doing it!”
Speaking about some of the bolder actions The Handmade Soap Company has taken, Founder Donagh Quigley says:
“We have developed the world’s first compostable refill pouch for beauty products and soaps, right here in County Meath. We recently launched a natural deodorant in a 100% compostable tube. Our entire mill where everything is handmade is entirely powered by the river that runs through the grounds. This is just a small introduction into the type of environmental initiatives we have taken. We have been constantly ahead of the pack, driving our green credentials and investing heavily in this area, because it’s the right thing to do.”
The Handmade Soap Company have been saying ‘choose kind’ since the brand’s conception, and they now have the two ‘best in the world’ accreditations, Ecocert and B Corp, to back it up. Joining a worldwide movement, and leading it here in Ireland, to transform our economic system to benefit all stakeholders, not just shareholders. The Handmade Soap Company knows kindness is a superpower, with the potential to change the world. With The Handmade Soap Company, not only do you choose kind. You choose to embrace positivity. To create a greener future. To give back to others. To choose better.
As our social calendars get busier, we're more excited than ever to catch up with all our girlfriends and go for a really fun day out – we mean girly chats, great food and fab atmosphere. No matter what kind of catch up you want to have, brunch is a great meal to do it over, especially up in our country's capitol city.
Dublin is brimming with brunch spots but how do you find the best one for the kind of atmosphere you and your gang are looking for? We have our favourite brunch spots all over the city, depending on our mood over the weekend. So whether you want quiet, cosy catch ups or a bottomless, boozy drag brunch, we have something on this list for you and your crew!
For a super glam and sophisticated brunch, Roberta’s has to be your go-to spot. The perfect way to spend your Saturday or Sunday, the upscale Italian restaurant does a classic brunch form 11am all weekend – because there’s no better way to catch up with friends than over a brunch mimosa!
Try out their stunning cocktails, from the Basil Fragolemonade featuring gin, basil, strawberries and lemon to their Earl of Rose, combining Beefeater 24, earl grey syrup, blackberries and grapefruit in a classy and complex combination. They have all your favourite brunch go-tos, like eggs benedict, buttermilk pancakes and avocado toast, or you can try some of their less traditional dishes, like Brekkie Pizza!
If you’re looking for something chilled and quiet after a big night out to catch up, then ALMA, the snug and petite eatery in Dublin 8 serving all day brunch is for you. Catch up on all the gossip from the night before over warming and satisfying Argentinian-inspired food that really hit the spot.
Featuring a small menu but what’s there is done incredibly well, it also has plenty of vegan option vegan options. For very chilled brunch, this is your best shout. They also do amazing coffee for when you’re in need of a perk up!
Keep the party going this weekend at Bow Lane Social Club with their bottomless brunch every Friday, Saturday and Sunday! For just €25, you get bottomless access to their stunning signature cocktails for two hours, meaning you’ll get to try The Southside Sling, Bow Lane Zombie, The Peachy Mexican and lots of non-alcoholic options also!
For fun, club-like vibes, be sure to it up their famous Drag Brunch for amazing tunes, performances and food, like crab and king prawn hash and huevos rancheros. Definitely not a quiet spot, this is for the gang that wants to carry on the party from the night before!
A small and cosy brunch spot outside of the city centre, this Mexican and Italian-inspired spot is reasonably priced and utterly delicious! With €16 endless mimosas Saturday and Sunday from 11am, this is an ideal spot for a chill fun lunch.
Noted for its great playlist and food, their pulled pork benedict is a must-try, featuring slow cooked Irish pork shoulder with BBQ sauce & two poached eggs, creamy hollandaise sauce and crispy onions. With lots of refreshing cocktail options, it’s just as perfect for girly brunch as it is for family brunch.
Every Friday to Sunday from 12pm – 5pm, you can avail of the stunning brunch menu that Wigwam offers. Their Brunch package includes any brunch item and 3 drink tokens for €30, which you can use to try out their Cuba Libres or Moscow Mule cocktails.
Their menu features plenty of vegan options and lots of delicious international dishes like Chicanos, chicken and waffles and brunch classics like eggs benedict and Florentine. Their Boozy Drag Brunch on Sundays sees fun events like gals & guys trivia quiz, lip-sync performances, saucy brunch dishes & bottles of fizz all hosted by some of the best and gorgeous queens, like Shaqira Knightly Donna Fella!
Amy Hart has shared the name that she almost gave to her baby boy!
The former Love Island contestant became a mum for the first time on March 3, as she gave birth to baby Stanley alongside her boyfriend Sam Rason.
However, as much as Amy has expressed adoration for her newborn’s name, she has now revealed the alternative name that she and Sam were considering before Stanley’s arrival.
During an Instagram video Q&A, Amy was initially asked by one of her 1.1M followers what Stanley’s name would have been if he had been a girl.
“I can’t tell you that, just in case in the next 6 or 7 children, I end up having a girl,” she teased. “That is still our top girl name because it matches quite well with Stanley.”
Thankfully, the new mum did choose to share another tidbit instead. “But what I can tell you – because it doesn’t match with Stanley, so even if we have another boy at some point, we won’t be using it – is that the final two names were Stanley and Radley,” Amy revealed.
The reality star went on to recall the moment she realised which name she wanted to choose. “Even when he was born, it was like, ‘Well, it’s Stanley or Radley,’” Amy explained.
“And then I just randomly started calling him Stanley, and Sam was like, ‘Oh, so it’s Stanley then?’ And I was like, ‘Yeah, I think it’s Stanley,’” she gushed.
“He is totally Stanley and I’m really glad we went for it,” Amy concluded in her video.
Following the announcement of their son’s birth last month, Amy and Sam chose to explain the sentimental meanings behind Stanley’s name.
“After @samuelrason obviously but also Amys brother is Samuel too!” they penned at the time.
The couple also added in the meaning behind Giles, Stanley’s middle name. “Nanny and Grandads last name, hopefully he’ll inherit their love of shots!” they joked.
During an Instagram Q&A, Shaughna was asked by another expectant mum about Lucia’s birth.
"I was induced at 41+3 and had the dilapan rods for 24 hours, when they were taken out I was 2cm dilated and had my waters broke. That wasn't fun but gas and air deffo helped!” Shaughna teased at the beginning of her lengthy response.
Shaughna continued by explaining how she continued for four hours with little progress. “The pain was manageable but when I realised I hadn't dilated any more I felt so deflated,” she admitted.
Credit: Shaughna Phillips Instagram
The new mum went on to joke about her epidural. "I was then offered the hormone drip and was strongly advised to have an epidural because the hormone drip sends your contractions from 0-100! The epidural is the best thing ever invented and I'm so glad I had it!” she recalled.
However, Shaughna then went on to reveal that her labour soon took a stressful turn. "I started pushing at 6:30pm for over an hour but Lucia would come down and slide straight back up and her heart rate was rocketing," she penned.
"I then went in for emergency forceps but as soon as they put them on her head she flipped around so they had to stop that and go ahead with the emergency c section,” she continued.
The reality star noted how much the dramatic turn of events worried her. "As soon as I knew baby was in distress I didn’t care how they got her out, I just wanted her here as quickly and safely as possible! The second I heard her cry every fear I had left my body,” she gushed.
Shaughna concluded her birth story with a final thought. "I was really sad I wasn’t able to give birth how I originally planned, but I always said I’ll have whatever birth needed to get her here, and that was the most important thing to me," she insisted.
An outstanding style icon on the west of Ireland hotel scene, Galway’s g Hotel has upped the style stakes even further in a dramatic one-million-euro refurbishment of its spacious foyer, signature lounges and opulent restaurant and cocktail bar.
Under the direction of Choice Hotel Group Ireland, the five-star luxury destination on the edge of Lough Atalia has assumed a refreshing new look, distinguished by originality and the very distinct individual personas of its ground-floor spaces.
Since first opening in 2005 with the pomp and ceremony surrounding its signature designer, Phillip Tracey, the g Hotel has always been a go-to place for those with an interest in fashion and design. Whilst never shying away from standing out from the crowd the g’s use of dark and light, bold colours, large scale reflective lighting and mirrors, brash artwork and imagery nodding to the Supermodels of the day, all added up to an iconic brand that strives to ‘never be ordinary’.
The concept for the €1 million refurbishment was to draw inspiration from the avant garde, the diverse and the opulent and to create a distinct identity for each of the hotels’ infamous signature lounges that celebrated individuality and uniqueness.
The Grand Salon is known for its natural light, generous double height ceilings, views over Lough Atalia and the much-photographed bespoke mirrored lighting installation by lighting designer Tom Dixon. The design team from GW Design wanted to maintain the chic and elegant atmosphere of the grand salon and for the room to have a feeling of subtle sophistication. A new jewel like cocktail bar, with a dramatic mirrored back bar display reflects the view of the Lough and the lighting installation. A palette of luxurious leathers and textured fabrics, in soft taupes, greys with hints of plums, create a warm and relaxing backdrop to enjoy afternoon tea or a pre-dinner drink.
The g Hotel’s restaurant has been renamed GEO and has had the most dramatic alteration of the entire refurbishment. Originally two separate rooms, the design team removed the dividing wall between the restaurant and cocktail bar and has created a more spacious and open synergy between the two. GEO Restaurant opens out onto a new garden terrace completing the fresh botanical feel of the décor.
A new cocktail bar now anchors the open plan room, where the walls are lined with a paradise scene of blossom with ferns, palms and leaves – a true eye catcher for guests visiting. Statement chandeliers and smoked mirrors draw the eye through the restaurant with a subtle sparkle and a palette of olive greens, and accents of coral and an abundance of greenery complete the new theme of GEO.
Executive Head Chef Dominique Majecki who joined the g Hotel in early 2022, is known for his love of local seafood, game and meat producers, and the name GEO, he explains comes from earth and geography of the world, with his inspiration coming from around the globe but using the best of local and Irish food.
The Hotel’s two other Signature Lounges have been redesigned to still evoke glamour and luxury but with a more subtle hint. The Pink Room evokes class and intrigue with blush pink velvets, tasselled chairs and brass accents create a luxurious feel. Its panelled walls, lined with a vibrant coral reef scene, is a nod to the coral mirrors and lighting which subtly cloak the walls. Imagery of the shimmering underwater world also reflects the lounge’s proximity to the Wild Atlantic Way and to Lough Atalia.
In contrast is the Blue Room with its colour palette of ginger, charcoal, and rich timber. A texture palette of leathers, timber and fabric wall panelling make this an inviting lounge to linger in.
Originally conceived in 2005 by signature designer, Phillip Tracey, the g Hotel’s striking new style was trusted to Grainne Weber of GWDesign, an architect and designer with immense experience in the luxury hotel sector. The Hardiman on Eyre Square in Galway city centre and House Hotel, Galway are among the striking design projects delivered by Grainne Weber and her team.
While the main building contractor was the Galway-based Conneally Group, local and nearby interiors suppliers involved in the dramatic refurbishment include John O’Connell Furniture, bespoke joinery by Unique Fitout in Cork.
The g Hotel has a strong design legacy as well as being known for its 5-star luxury and this timely refurbishment of its entire ground floor is another milestone in the Hotel’s design story. In fact, you will still notice some of the hotel’s original artwork, in particular that of Vee Spears, an established fine-art photographer, making the refurb a beautiful amalgamation of original and new.
According to Regional General Manager, Patrick Murphy:
“Wow was the first word that came to mind when I saw the finished product, the g hotel is no ordinary hotel, it’s Galway city’s only 5-star hotel and has always made people talk about its style, design and location. For me it was critical we protected that discussion at all costs, but also, we moved the design forward with the customer needs of today. Our design team have achieved that for sure on the ground floor, even managing to keep some of the old design features for you to spot and now my team get an opportunity to display their style, skill, craft and care to our wide and varied customer base. Judge for yourself, we can’t wait to welcome you back and hear what you think about the style, design and refurbishment and most importantly for me, enjoy the Wow factor our service team have created to support the product!”.
Stay at the g Hotel for their Dine and Dream package this May and June and enjoy 2 nights’ accommodation with breakfast and dinner on one evening in the new GEO restaurant from €259 PPS.
As expected, the presenting duo remains unchanged, with hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman leading the lineup of this year’s stars.
Despite concerns that she would not be returning after an intense period of online trolling, it has been confirmed that Shirley Ballas is still a part of the Strictly family. The 62-year-old will be the head judge once again, alongside fellow judges Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood and Anton Du Beke.
In previous years, fans have been heartbroken upon the reveal of the professional dancers lineup, as many stars have departed from the show recently.
The 2023 season has survived with just one loss, as Cameron Lombard has shared that he has decided to leave Strictly.
“The last two years have been a blast,” the South African dancer penned on social media following the lineup reveal. “Thank you @bbcstrictly for the life changing opportunity and for the best experience any one could wish for.”
Aside from Cameron’s bittersweet exit, the professional dancers’ group remains unchanged, with favourites such as Karen Hauer, Johannes Radebe and Giovanni Pernice coming back once more.
Many of the Strictly gang couldn’t wait to share their delight to be returning to the hit show.
Credit: BBC/Guy Levy
“Forever grateful and can’t wait!” wrote Amy Dowden.
“So excited for another wonderful year with you all x”, commented Dianne Buswell.
“Excited to be Back!!” added Gorka Marquez.
We can’t wait to see Strictly returning to our screens later this year!
FREENOW, Ireland’s leading multi-mobility app, has today announced that it will offer €10,000* worth of ECO booking taxi vouchers to celebrate World Earth Day on Saturday, April 22nd. Launched in 2020, the ECO booking option allows passengers to choose more sustainable transport options by selecting a hybrid or electric taxi on the app at no extra cost.
FREENOW customers can claim one of the five hundred €20 vouchers on offer using the code FREENOWECO. Each voucher is redeemable against one ECO trip through the FREENOW app from 7am on April 22nd until 1am April 23rd and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The ECO booking service forms part of FREENOW’s ambition to be the first mobility app in Europe to reach Net-Zero emissions by 2030. In recent years, FREENOW has experienced considerable growth in demand for sustainable travel via its ECO booking option. FREENOW has completed almost two million EV (electric vehicle) trips in Ireland since 2021 and reports a 14% increase in demand for its ECO booking service in the first quarter of 2023 compared with the same period last year
Ahead of World Earth Day on 22nd April, FREENOW has also announced that it has added over 117 EVs to its fleet since the start of 2023 and 40% of the fleet is now electric or hybrid, compared to a third in 2022. FREENOW expects to have 2,250 EVs on the road by the end of 2023.
Commenting on the announcement, Fiona Brady, Head of Public Affairs and Operations, FREENOW has said: ‘We are thrilled to celebrate World Earth Day by offering €10,000 worth of taxi vouchers to be used across 500 ECO trips this weekend.
At FREENOW, facilitating sustainable transport is a key priority for us. We are committed to enabling passengers and businesses to make smart and sustainable transport decisions as part of the national effort to build a greener and more future-proof transport infrastructure. This is integral to our strategic ambition to become the first mobility platform to reach Net Zero in all markets in which FREENOW operates across Europe by 2030.”
To claim a €20 voucher for an ECO trip, simply download the FREENOW app and enter the code FREENOWECO when booking your trip, vouchers are limited.
* 500 €20 vouchers available on a first come first served basis
