Tuesday 28 June 2011

Flowers flying for 30 years!

The team behind Flying Flowers is raising a glass this month to celebrate 30 years in business!

Brightening people’s days and sending smiles to your friends, relatives and loved ones for three decades, the company started back in 1981 in Jersey.

Despite its humble start as a service for holidaymakers who wanted to send low-cost, high quality flowers to people they care about, Flying Flowers now sends hundreds of thousands of bouquets each year.

They have built up expertise in creating stunning floral displays at very keen prices, it now also sells a wide range of great gifts, too. Bouquets can also be sent to 12 countries worldwide, including Europe, Australia, New Zealand, America and South Africa.

Points out a justifiably proud Stephen Cook, Flying Brands’ CEO: “We’re thrilled to have enjoyed 30 years in business, which I believe is testament to the service we offer. The Flying Flowers’ team does its utmost to offer customers – many of whom have used the company from the very beginning – the very best in floral gifting at competitive prices. We continue to move with the times and embrace new technologies, whilst maintaining our core values. Here’s to the next 30 years!”

The retailer is celebrating its 30th birthday with a special anniversary bouquet, which has been created just for the occasion. The stunning Celebration display – just £29.99 delivered - includes 30% extra blooms to celebrate the big day.

To find out more visit www.flyingflowers.co.uk

Thursday 23 June 2011

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Tuesday 21 June 2011

British Cooker Brand To Make Member of Public Social Media Custodian

‘Face of New World’ To Win Role of Brand Champion and Tweet For Company

Home appliance brand New World is launching a campaign to find a member of the public who will become their unpaid corporate marketing face – but in what is believed to be a UK first, the winner will not merely be the ‘face’ of the brand, they will be given control of the company’s Twitter and Facebook channels.

The New World Appliances campaign is being run to coincide with a fresh new look for the brand which to be launched later in the year that will present a more bold, stylish, young and fashionable image.

The concept of the ‘Face of New World’ campaign isn't just to find a visual representation of the brand, but to find a member of the public to become a ‘brand ambassador’, Tweeting and blogging on their behalf, attending interiors exhibitions, design shows, fashion and foodie events.

The concept of brands adopting members of the public to be used in marketing campaigns is not a new one – Milky Bar has run campaigns to find its latest Milky Bar Kid, Dove’s Real Women campaign was a global success and this year the Bisto Kids returned following a search among the public.

But New World believes this is the first time a company in the UK has handed over its social media channels to a member of the public. The winner will be chosen by the public through a social media vote.

Jon Brennan, New World's commercial manager said: “Our new look is bold, stylish, young and fashionable and we are looking for someone who embodies these characteristics with a keen interest in food, interiors and new trends to represent the brand.

“The publically-chosen winner will receive a suite of New World built-in kitchen appliances and we’ll be sending them to top industry events to keep abreast of new trends and innovations on our behalf.

"It’s not just about having a physical ‘face’ we want a real person to embody New World and represent our brand through social media and in public."

"They will play a role in new product development, attending meetings with our marketing and design teams to advise on product, fashion and food trends they’ve spotted."

"This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys food, fashion and interiors, who is social media savvy and who can write passionately about the New World brand."

New World will set the winner up with a blog and camera, plus full access to the official New World Twitter http://twitter.com/NewWorldApp and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/NewWorldAppliances profiles.

It is an un-paid role, but the winner will receive a kitchen of new appliances and the hottest tickets to some of the best industry events in the UK, expenses paid.

Interested? Then visit www.newworldappliances.co.uk and submit a photograph and up to 100 words on why you should become the ‘Face of New World’. The top ten entries will be chosen to take part in the second round with the final winner decided by New World.

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Monday 20 June 2011

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Wool you believe it?

Bold Colours may have been adorning our wardrobes in 2011, but British Wool is bringing the colour blocking trend into the home from floor up with a collection that is big, bright and bold.

Whilst British Wool naturally offers robust resilience as a carpet fibre it also brings a unique twist to innovative accessories and clothing in glorious technicolour and tactile texture.

“Teaming high quality craftsmanship in shades that omit high intensity, British homes will be crying out for home grown wool” says Irfan Khan, Promotions Manager at The British Wool Marketing Board “With the growing trend for all things British, it’s great to be collaborating with so many innovative companies that make fantastic products from British Wool.”

Where There’s A Wool There’s A Way
The living room is THE place to generate stand out, so inject eye popping colour with British Wool – offset primary shades against clashing acid brights for the ultimate in wool factor! This trend is best combined with one solid shade of colour so choose carpet from Ulster that is hardwearing yet soft and luxurious underfoot or add a focal point to a plain sofa with vibrant wool tapestry cushions in delicious shades of colour made with Elizabeth Bradley tapestry kits.

From Sheep to Sleep
‘Shear’ sumptuous surroundings are a given when you use British Wool in the bedroom. Opt for opulent, luxurious surroundings which are guaranteed to keep you warm at night. Use a bold Red Velvet carpet from Ulster to instantly brighten your day as soon you step foot out of bed. Collaborations with key designers see the ultimate in bold and tactile accessories hand-made from natural yarns including Melanie Porter’s statement piece knitted furniture, the added ‘Passion’ comes from Emily Peacock’s statement cushion.

Loud and Proud to be British
Celebrate everything we love about the Isles with woollen fabrics that add instant interest and depth and help to make your house a home. Melanie Porter has created knitted furniture that merges rich warmth with distinct British tones. The classic red white and blue is a tradition that just isn’t ready to leave our homes so hang your flag with pride.

Cosy up with British Wool
When the nights draw in, cosy accessories from British Wool are the perfect winter antidote. Light a fire and cuddle up in woollen fabrics and yarns. With the latest cutting edge and unique scarves from Izzy Lane and lacy scarves from Makepiece, you won’t be cold this winter. And when it’s time to hang the stockings choose socks from John Arbon Textiles made from British Wool in an array of dizzy brights and make sure your mantelpiece has one for all the family.

For more information about British Wool visit www.aboutwool.com

Thursday 16 June 2011

Artist wth Autism David Downes brings St Pancras to life in ball point pen for charity

David Downes is an artist with a distinctive and extraordinary talent. Not only highly technically skilled, David also has a ‘visionary’ gift – he is able to look from ground level at a city scape and mentally visualise the view from the rooftops with mind-boggling architectural accuracy. But it’s not just the perspective he gets so remarkably right and is able to translate to the canvas by working from memory, it’s the mood, the ambience, the character of the location.

A long time London resident and graduate of the Royal College of Art, David has an instinctive connection to the city – and its skylines are one of his favourite subjects. The St. Pancras pen-painting is not only the first artwork to capture the recently renovated landmark, it’s one of the most moving expressions of this beloved building within its setting.

David, who is represented by art business GoFigurative.com, was commissioned to create the image for the Anderson Foundation Summer Ball in aid of The National Autistic Society, which will be held at the newly opened St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel. David, through his own understanding of Asperger syndrome, was particularly inspired to work in support of the NAS. Choosing to create the image in a very particular medium, David was sponsored for this piece by leading stationery supplier BIC and the drawing is mainly rendered using the BiC® Cristal® (which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year) to magnificent effect.

The historic, red-brick building was originally designed and built by foremost Victorian architect, Sir George Gilbert Scott, opening as the Midland Grand Hotel in 1873. Its Victorian Gothic splendours have recently been revived with a £200 million pound restoration with the building now comprising 67 private, residential apartments on the upper floors of the building and a luxurious new 245 bedroom hotel, the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, on the lower floors. The opening of the hotel also marks the completion of the regeneration of St Pancras International Station, now the home of Eurostar.

David was delighted by the commission and the process for several reasons: “As an artist with Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism, I have been involved with The National Autistic Society for many years and when they commissioned me to draw the St. Pancras Renaissance for the Anderson Foundation Summer Ball, I was inspired and excited, as having the resources available to draw this magnificent building has long been a dream of mine.

“Seeing my drawing develop has been very fulfilling, and by using a BiC® Cristal®, I am able to create the effect I want to achieve. I have been using BIC pens for a long time in my drawings, and so I am very proud BIC has been generous enough to sponsor this piece. Working in ball point pen is challenging as it can’t be erased, but also good fun as they help to create a continuous flow when drawing.”

The picture, which is 100cm x 145cm and framed with UV glass to prevent light damage, will be unveiled during a private reception for the artist on July 7th at international law firm Wragge & Co’s London office (Waterhouse Square, Holborn), and then auctioned at The Anderson Foundation Summer Ball at The St Pancras Renaissance Hotel on 9th July in aid of The National Autistic Society. Founder of The Anderson Foundation, Mark Anderson is positive that the drawing will generate significant interest and will increase the number of bidders by opening it up to a wider market via an online preview. Bids can be made via the web site up to 5pm on the 8th July, and will be carried over to the live auction taking place the following evening: http://auction.andersonfoundation.co.uk

Delighted, once again to be raising much needed funds for the National Autistic Society in 2011, Mark Anderson said: "This is the third fundraiser that the Anderson Foundation has hosted on behalf of the National Autistic Society and we are thrilled that David has given his time and expertise to produce this outstanding piece of art for us to auction. The dedication and enthusiasm of the entire team at the NAS is clearly apparent and we know that every penny of the funds raised will be put to good use by the charity."

The artwork will be available to view by the interested public, by appointment only, from June 17th to July 8th, during office hours at, 1 Liverpool Street, London EC2M 7DQ.
Contact David Downes’ agent: sallyperry@gofigurative.com. 0207 956 2819

Sally Perry of www.GoFigurative.com, a unique art business working with technically skilled artists – with particular focus on portraits and landscapes – is delighted to be involved with the project and to see David begin to gain some much deserved recognition: “I met David only recently and leapt at the chance to represent him.

“His work and his intellect are an inspiration to everyone, especially to those whose lives are affected by autism. David wants everyone to recognise the invaluable service that The National Autistic Society provides and humbly presents his painting of the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel to be auctioned at the Anderson Foundation Summer Ball to raise money for the charity.”

Mark Lever, CEO of the National Autistic Society said: "We are really proud to be the beneficiary of the Anderson Foundation and the money raised from the Anderson Foundation Summer Ball and the auction lots will be going towards providing vital support and services to the half a million people in the UK with autism. Autism is a lifelong developmental disability and without the right support it can have a profound and sometimes devastating effect on individuals and families. We are very grateful to David Downes for providing this outstanding piece of art for the auction lot. David's involvement with The NAS over the years has helped raise awareness and vital funds for the charity, and we are very excited to see his work of art in the auction this year.”

Yolande de Trogoff, BIC UK and Ireland - Marketing Manager said: “As charity partner of the NAS, and sponsor of this amazing piece, we are delighted to support David’s work. The BIC® Cristal® is an iconic pen which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, and what better way to mark this landmark occasion than with an incredible piece of art – of one of London’s landmarks. We hope it will raise valuable funds for the National Autistic Society.”


Littlewoods Europe's biggest sale yet?

Littlewoods Europe, part of the Shop Direct Group, the UK's second largest online clothing retailer, has announced the launch of its End of Season Sale. The sale sees over 12,000 clothing and footwear lines in Littlewoods Europe's online store discounted, with savings of up to 75% off. There's also up to 50% savings on homewares and bedding, too!

The End of Season Sale has clothing and footwear for the whole family, plus homeware, including basics like bedding and towels. Customers can expect to see big brand names like, Converse, Bench clothing, Ben Sherman, FCUK, Nike and Adidas on offer with significant discounts.

The End of Season Sale comes at a great time when many people are preparing for the long summer break. Littlewoods Europe believes the prospect of up to 75% discount on leading lines will entice savvy shoppers to shop for some great deals, as well as benefiting budget-conscious households and business owners, too.

A spokeswoman for Littlewoods Europe said: "With the summer holidays approaching, it's a busy time for many of our customers. Whether they are off on holiday or spending time at home with the family, summer can bring with it a lot of expense.

“We think our sale has some great bargains and can help with the seasonal pinch. With over 2000 bedding lines in the sale, we believe these offers from Littlewoods Europe, will be of particular interest to customers in Europe who run holiday lets, when preparing for the peak holiday period."

Littlewoods Europe delivers to customers in the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. Home delivery is within 10 working days with 28 days home approval guarantee.

Brands within the Shop Direct Group portfolio include Very.co.uk, Woolworths.co.uk, Littlewoods Ireland, Littlewoods Europe, Additions, Great Universal, Choice, Kays, Empire Stores and Marshall Ward.

Don't let Dad do the DIY!

With Father's Day upon us, it’s time for the women to get out the DIY tools and let Dad take a break from his shed! Hitachi Capital Consumer Finance has revealed that although UK men can talk a good game, they are more likely to hinder the process and cause disasters than women.

A recent survey by the UK’s leading provider of point of sale credit solutions revealed that almost a quarter of men (23%) liken themselves to Nick Knowles’ style of DIY and claim that though they know the basics, it is their female partner who is more likely to shine and get the job done this Father's Day.

What’s more, contrary to popular belief, men are a third more likely to have a costly DIY disaster than women, which is why fathers should put away the paintbrushes and power tools and stay tucked up in bed on Sunday.

And though some women across the country would prefer to get a professional to do the job (16%), 90 % own tools and know how to use them just like their DIY idol Craig Phillips.

In fact, ladies across the country are surpassing men across the board. More than half of women compare themselves to Lawrence Llewelyn-Bowen’s painting skills, Linda Barker’s artistic flair and Charlie Dimmock’s green fingers, yet barely a third of men (33%) admit to the same skills.

Gerald Grimes, manager director at Hitachi Capital Consumer Finance, said: “Sunday’s are the perfect time for sprucing up the home with some family DIY and it’s clear that the nation is keen on practicing their skills and comparing their efforts to celebs. We are seeing a real trend in DIY as consumers look to improve their homes instead of moving and we expect to see a big surge over the Father’s Day weekend. Whether dads get a day off, only time will tell!

Over a quarter (27%) of those surveyed went on to agree that DIY is a cost effective way of doing up the home and over 10% feel that DIY is a good stress buster.

(EDITOR: As my wife's late father was a Master Builder and she has qualifications in interior design, decorating, garden design and gardening, I know my place as chief tea maker!)



Monday 13 June 2011

Joe Brown has the ideal Father's Day gifts for your dad!

Stylish Dad
For Dads who take pride in their appearance, there's the Panama Check Shirt, £29.95. It's really stylish. The secret to a good shirt is that it goes with anything, so that’s why this one is perfect. He can wear it open with a bright coloured T-Shirt or buttoned up for a smarter evening look.

Outdoor Dad
Hiking, riding or running, if your Dad is happiest in the great outdoors, he’ll appreciate some stylish and comfy Great Anytime Shorts £32.95. Complete with a contrasting belt and check design, these shorts are adjustable depending on the weather. There are lots of big pockets, ideal for keeping loose change in if the hike happens to end at a country pub!

Cool Dad
The Classic Check Surfer Shirt , £24.95 is one for the young and just young-at-heart Dads. If he likes to look his best, this shirt featuring a bold bright check and cool short sleeves, will make sure he stands out from the crowd. Have him team it with dark denim jeans or lightweight chinos for summer nights.

Chilled Dad
For Dads that prefer life at a more chilled pace, the Easy living Trilby Hat, £15.95 is just the ticket for relaxing in style this summer. A true design classic, the Trilby will never go out of fashion. The straw peak will keep your Dad cool during the long afternoons supporting his local Cricket team. Or sat in the beer garden, relaxing in the evening sun.

Visit http://joebrowns.co.uk to find out more or to make a purchase.

New discount site to give away £10,000 a day for a whole week!

A new, revolutionary, money-saving site is giving away £10,000 a day to online shoppers during a 'Cashback Crazy Week' (10K-A-Day) promotion.

ILoveCashback.com (www.ilovecashback.com) aims to hit the the world of online shopping with a bang.

Why another discount shopping website? ILoveCashback points out that it is different to other sites, as it is the only website that the ONLY website that combines price comparison, voucher codes and cash rewards all in the one place. And there's the little matter of the £70,000 give-away, too.

"Every day for an entire week, we'll send an email to all our members telling them what time the cashback crazy time begins!" said the site's managing director, Brad Blake. "It could be 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 5pm or even 8pm.

"Then they can sign in, shop like crazy and we'll guarantee up to £100 cashback to the first 100 registered users to make a purchase.

"Cashback Crazy Week(10K-A-Day) will mean anyone buying an item over £100 will receive a price-busting £100 discount. This means someone buying an item for up to £100 will receive it for free!

"We're giving away £10,000 a day - that's £70,000 in one week! With all that loot to be had, we're calling this the National Loottery!"

ILoveCashback is the only site to offer triple-savings through price comparisons, voucher codes AND cashback rewards.

It prides itself on being the UK's most advanced yet easy-to use money-saving site which features over 6 million products from over 1,000 UK retailers including big names like: Debenhams, Habitat, Laura Ashley and House of Fraser.

Online shoppers can already browse top deals on everything from the latest TVs to mobile phones, clothes and even theatre tickets.

ILoveCashback allows shoppers to withdraw cash rewards to their bank account, save them on site or donate them to charities, should they wish.

"Members will only need to have completed a simple registration with us to be notified before each day's promotion and they can enter the promotion as many times as they like," added Brad.

The ILoveCashback's (10K-A-Day) Cashback Crazy Week starts on June 20 and ends on June 26.
Terms and conditions apply.

Thursday 9 June 2011

That's Gardening: Hot Summer Savings at Cannock Gates

That's Gardening: Hot Summer Savings at Cannock Gates: "No matter what the weather at the moment (fairly good at the moment as I look out on to the That's Gardening garden, as it happens!) June is..."

Wednesday 1 June 2011

Top UK designer creates Limited Editions Art collection exhibition on Facebook Store

Geraldine Mattis has launched her first '84' exhibition design store on facebook featuring 84 beautiful art works, 84 prints and designs, 84 Limited Editions, 84 Limited Editions in each design and 84 days.

This concept features iconic pieces selected from Geraldine Mattis design portfolio which currently stands at over 350 original artworks.

Geraldine Mattis who has done commission for Deutsche + Guggenheim Art Shop, Berlin, ‘Color Fields’ ‘Art on a Plate’ 2010/2011 who founded her design company in 2008 enthused: “I am excited to be introducing a new online exhibition on the Geraldine Mattis Design facebook store.

"Creating an online exhibition on facebook store is a brilliant concept because you are treating the exhibition as you would prepare for it in a gallery space, information, time, invitation, refreshments and selling the designs. Individuals do not have to leave their house and they can go on the internet at their own convenience whether this is in internet cafes, libraries, transport otherwise mobile phones.”

Also, she goes on to point out: “Having art reproductions and signed limited editions gives everybody an opportunity to invest in a luxury item that adds value.”

The price is £84.00 on Satin A1 paper unframed.

The first 100 customers to order a limited edition poster will receive 10% off

www.facebook.com/pages/Geraldine-Mattis-Design/1758323624706...

For more details and information you can visit www.geraldinemattisdesign.com

FACTFILE:
Geraldine Mattis Ltd was founded some three years ago in 2008 by Geraldine Mattis who is the Founder, Artist/Designer of Geraldine Mattis Ltd.

Geraldine Mattis designs bespoke surfaces, art works and ceramics.

Maision et Objet, Paris September 2010; Deutsche + Guggenheim Art Shop, Berlin, “ Color Fields” Exhibition 2010/2011; The Conran Shop Autumn/Winter 2011 collection Serve ware and Afternoon tea sets ; Awarded research and development grant by GLE to delivered new ceramic prototypes 2010; Press in Gifts and House ware magazine –Movers and Shakers January 2010 edition; Elle Decoration Magazine December 2010; Essential Kitchen and Bathroom 2011; Tableware International 2009; Mydeco; Bouf.com; Success Story October 2009 at the British Library-Entrepreneur; British Female Inventors and Innovators Award- Special Recognition Award 2009; British Invention Silver Medal Award 2009.