Online beauty retailer Escentual has helped Celebrity Secrets round up the best sunscreens with a celeb stamp of approval, as every product listed is a top quality, high factor, broad-spectrum, and dermatologically tested formula.

1. Escentual Sunscreen SPF50+

Love Island stars Georgia Harrison and Tyne-Lexy Clarson, skincare expert Caroline Hirons, former Made in Chelsea star Hugo Taylor (pictured below) and actress Kara Tointon are all fans of the Escentual Sunscreen SPF50+.

Part of a nationwide #SunPoverty campaign by online retailer, Escentual, this SPF is broad-spectrum, dermatologically tested, water-resistant for up to four hours, and designed for all skin types and tones. Celebs are backing both the high protection formula and the cause, which will see 30,000 sunscreens donated to children on free school meals across the UK this summer.

2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+

Supermodel Kate Moss has widely talked about her love of the La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF50+. Lightweight, very high protection, and travel-friendly, it’s a jet-setting model’s perfect go-to!

Kate’s original favourite may have been recently discontinued (February 2022) but the new version is even better – it took 10 years of research, and more than 60 scientific studies to create, and it’s La Roche-Posay’s newest UV filter since 1998. Kate has said she particularly loves this product because you can wear it under your makeup.

3. Clarins Dry Touch Sun Care Cream for Face SPF30

Cindy Crawford’s top choice for beach days is anything by Clarins. She said the best advice she ever got from her dermatologist was to wear sunscreen every day, and has spoken of how she chooses Clarins SPF for the beach. 

This particular Clarins sunscreen is a lightweight facial sunscreen with a matte finish for all skin types. Its patented Sun Care Multi-Protection formula is designed to protect your skin’s vital elements (the epidermis and dermis, hydration process and collagen and elastin fibres) and will ensure it is shielded in long-lasting protection without a chalky white cast.

4. Avene Sun Care Intense Protect SPF50+

Ed Sheeran and his wife Cherry Seaborn were spotted protecting their two children from the sun with the award-winning Avene Sun Care Intense Protect SPF50+. Avene is best-known for its sensitive-skin-friendly formulas, and this SPF is no different – perfect for protecting their precious daughters.

The broad-spectrum sunscreen was developed after 20 years of research and contains the first organic sun filter that can absorb and reflect UVB, short UVA and long UVA rays, and high-energy visible blue light.

Find all the products mentioned on escentual.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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The residents’ team at apartment rental brand Essential Living have shared their top tips with Checklist for renters to get their living space looking its best, any time of year.

Invest in your home working space

For those living in more confined living spaces like apartments, you are less likely to have a choice on which room to set your workspace up in, but if you can, the best place to set up is at the kitchen table, or a desk if possible. Working near a window is also beneficial as natural light can improve concentration. 

More importantly, invest in comfort and get an office chair with lumbar support. For a cost-effective alternative, place a small pillow at the curve of your lower back. You can also get an ergonomic keyboard with wrist support.

Reorganise your space

Particularly for renters with little storage, it can be a struggle to find space for everything and to properly organise your surroundings. Make your space more organised by selling, donating or discarding any unwanted items that have been sitting at the back of the wardrobe for months. By creating this free space, you will already start to feel refreshed and much more neat and tidy. 

Have a spring clean

Giving your home a good spring clean makes you feel good, but it can be easy to become distracted and allow your cleaning tasks to pile up.

To avoid the build-up of cleaning jobs, make a cleaning schedule of smaller tasks to tackle little and often to keep on top of it and prevent you feeling overwhelmed by a bigger clean. A build-up of dust on your surfaces can trigger red, itchy eyes or a runny nose, so by dusting your surfaces just once a week you will feel a huge difference. 

Throw away any expired foods

Have you ever found a tin in the back of your cupboard which is about three years old? If the answer is yes, then it is time to get rid of any expired tins that are just sitting there taking up space. For renters who may not have a huge amount of kitchen space, you will instantly feel more organised.

This also goes for the fridge, remove everything and give the inside of your fridge a good clean with some antibacterial wipes. This will remove any bad smells and allow you to reorganise each shelf so you can see what items need to be eaten first. 

For any foods you don’t need, why not donate them to your local food bank. This way you’ve also done your good deed for the day. You can find your nearest food bank at The Trussell Trust. 

Give your home décor a makeover

It’s always a good time to incorporate some new, fresh colours into your home’s décor. The colour trends for the spring/summer seasons include orange, red and blue shades, as well as four key neutral shades including universal khaki, dark blue, shiny white and ashen.

You don’t need to paint the walls – many renters can’t anyway – but just by purchasing some cushions or lampshades in these colours it may just give your home that modern refresh you wanted all along.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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You have gone from performing around the world with JLS to becoming an award-winning farmer. Tell us about this journey.

It baffles me how so many people still don’t understand where food comes from. Since I made the career change from pop star to farmer 10 years ago, I have been able to see first-hand the impact that a rural lifestyle has had on myself and my family.

I spent most of my childhood growing up in south London, unaware of the hidden beauty of the countryside. This new-found appreciation has given me a passion to educate children and adults alike about the processes involved in producing our food, many of whom have grown up just like me, in cities, totally unaware of that journey.

What effect do you think the past few years have had on our understanding of the importance of farming?

Not being able to buy everyday essentials like flour and eggs was eye-opening. Key workers such as farmers played a pivotal role and the pandemic brought their vital work to the fore. Distilling these complex topics is imperative if we are going to enable people to make informed decisions when it comes to food choices.

You will be taking part in The Game Fair, what can visitors expect from the event?

I have been attending The Game Fair for many, many years. It is an iconic British institution. This much-loved grassroots event provides a three-day hub for everyone to come together, share knowledge and learn. There is no other gathering so diverse or like it.

JB says the family-friendly outdoor event is also the ideal place to bring his young children.

My son Ace is almost eight years old, and my daughter Chiara actually turns four on the Saturday of The Game Fair. Now they are slightly older, there are so many attractions for them to have a go at – from falconry and ferrets to gundogs and game cookery.

Throughout the weekend, you will also be giving cookery demos in front of a live audience alongside acclaimed chef and game meat evangelist José Souto. Have you always been a fan of cooking?

Once upon a time I was singing and dancing on stage, nowadays I am more likely to be butchering a roe carcase! Cooking is a real passion of mine, so we hit it off straight away.

We have also been out deerstalking and fishing together. Our hunt was fruitless sadly, but it was still an incredible experience and helped me to understand why our wild deer population needs to be managed. I have, however, caught plenty of wild trout in the past. In fact, my son Ace caught his first fish on the River Test a few years ago.

Despite growing up in London, you have always liked rural living, tell us more.

I lived in Antigua until I was four, where I would ride horses and donkeys all day long with my six cousins. I actually bought my 10-acre farm in Kent while I was still in JLS as I was never really a fan of living in central London and wanted somewhere to call home for the one day I got off every three months. Pop star life is pretty full on, so I needed somewhere peaceful. Some people ask if we have a farm manager, and are then surprised when I tell them that my wife Chloe and I do all the mucking out ourselves.

You are in a unique position of bridging the countryside and town divide, aren’t you?

For some reason, there has always been a real disconnect between those living in rural and urban areas. They both feel misunderstood by the other side. For those curious about learning more and educating themselves, The Game Fair is a one-stop-shop providing a comprehensive overview of country pursuits and rural life across one 450-acre site. Every one of your senses will be heightened – there is so much to see and do.

Learn more and get your tickets to The Game Fair here.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Celebrity Secrets chats to – JB Gill from JLS appeared first on Checklists.

Christophe speaks to Checklist of the benefits of wearing supportive footwear, rather than slippers around the house, especially for long periods of time.

Comfort and stability

Ideally, anything you have on your feet for a long period should offer proper support and protection.

The more support your shoes can give you, the less unbalanced and unstable you will be, and therefore the less likely you are to slip, trip or fall. And this applies to any age group. So, choose a pair of comfy shoes for indoor wearing that offer support and then use them as you would a comfy pair of slippers.

Think of slippers a bit like chocolate. Yes really. Lovely but not good for you if you have it every day. The same applies to wearing slippers – an occasional treat only.

Heel support

With every step you take in slip-on shoes, your toes are forced to grasp the slipper to lift it off the ground and carry it until your next step. This is because your heel is not being grabbed by the footwear. This has an effect on the muscles and joints of the foot.

When the heel is secured within the shoe it helps to lift the entire shoe and carry it forward even as you bend your foot. This in turn supports the foot, and the rest of the body while walking.

Instability all the way up

Your ankles are the most challenged and challenging joints of your body because they connect two small horizontal feet with a tall and vertical body. Any time one of your ankles is unstable, every joint above is impacted. Slippers lack in ankle support.

Overlooking your ankle stability is like neglecting the first impression you’ll make when entering a room. Both will leave you with no second chance and things could go wrong. An unstable ankle can drag knees and hips down, in or outwards depending on your body type.

Orthotics and slippers

Orthotics and shoes work together. The firmness of the shoe sole and the action of the laces or Velcro are both part of the foot support that provides you with a better alignment, balance, and overall posture.

A pair of slippers with no heel or ankle support does not strap your foot, and so the orthotics are not wrapped around your heels and arches. Therefore, if you tried to wear your orthotics in your slippers, you would miss out on this snug and pleasant feeling that reinforces the action of the orthotics and optimises their results. And of course, if the slipper has no back – the orthotics will simply fall out.

Working from home

When travelling to the office and working with other people, most people wear shoes, not slippers, and this helps to support and cushion the feet. But take this away and swap it for spending the entire day barefoot or with slippers on a hard floor and it begins to have an effect on feet and posture.

Another change is the reduction in walking when working from home. When people walk, they swing their arms, and this helps to take some of the load off the feet. Walking puts around 80% of the load on your feet, whereas stepping in an enclosed space with no arm swing applies 120% of your body weight on your feet.

Slipper alternatives

Start by wearing supportive and lace-up shoes in the house. These should support, protect and cushion the foot. They should stay on the foot as you walk. Remember, shoes are like glasses, they help only if you wear them and only if they fit you well. Save walking barefoot for sandy beaches or your fresh-mowed lawn, and slippers for putting your feet up in front of the TV.

Slip-on shoes are not great if you spend most of your day standing or walking. Indoor slip-on shoes, like slippers, are soft and unsupportive and should be worn sparingly. If you want to wear slip-ons then it is possible to get a custom orthotic sealed to the shoe which will help, but still isn’t ideal as you won’t get the full lateral support you need. 

Some shoe brands do offer more support than others, for example Birkenstock Milano or Kalahari, Fitflop and TOMS, so sandal versions of these are an option. Alternatively, look for shoes with outer soles that are firm, can’t be twisted and only bend under the ball of your foot.

And finally, keep your slippers for serious relaxing only, and don’t use them for general wear.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Are slippers good for your muscles and joints? appeared first on Checklists.

This can include questions about fussy eating, healthy snacking, and how to nurture a love for food from an early age.  Charlotte Stirling-Reed, in-house baby and child nutritionist at award-winning children’s food brand, Little Dish shares her expert advice on key food and nutrition-related topics.

How to tackle a fussy eating phase

Try role modelling. Eat with your little one often, and eat a wide variety of foods, as they learn what to eat from watching you eat. Variety is important too, the more variety you offer, the more they’re likely to accept new tastes and textures.

Always be consistent by establishing a routine and trying to stick to it. Avoid pressure as this is likely to backfire and put them off trying new foods. Most importantly, make mealtimes fun. The more fun they are, the more little ones will want to be involved.

Healthy snacking 

Ensure that you have a routine. A structure around meals and snacks means your little one knows when to expect food. Offer a variety of snacks to ensure they have a balance of nutrients throughout the day. Always tailor snacks to your child. Even though the recommendation for children is to have three meals and two or three snacks a day, all children are different so figure out what works best for your child.

Include all food groups. Try making snacks ‘mini meals’ by offering a carbohydrate food, a portion of veg or fruit, protein or iron-rich foods and sometimes some dairy or alternatives. Make the most of the nutrition offered at snack time with an extra stir of peanut butter, a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of milled seeds.

How to nurture a love of food 

Children are more likely to enjoy food if they see you eating and enjoying food with them. Let them join in by bringing them to the table at an early stage so they get used to sharing meal times with family and friends.

Don’t just eat the food, get them involved in growing it, cooking it, shopping for it and reading about it. Familiarise them with a wide variety of foods and avoid labelling foods. Try to avoid offering food rewards and labelling foods as ‘good’ and ‘bad’.

Introducing herbs and spices 

Start introducing herbs and spices gradually to familiarise their taste buds with new flavours. Add plenty of variety to get them used to different flavours from an early age. Get little ones used to the herbs and spices you use regularly in your cooking and the family favourites.

Avoid adding salt and instead use herbs and spices to flavour meals. Get creative – think about adding a pinch of nutmeg to a cheese sauce, or a pinch of cinnamon to their morning porridge.

Balancing meals and portion sizes

Let the kids lead. Look out for cues that they’ve had enough or they’re still hungry. Work together when it comes to portion sizes. You decide what they’re going to have to eat, and let them decide how much they want to eat.

Offer all food groups, include fruits and vegetables, carbohydrates, protein and iron-rich foods, dairy and alternatives. Add extra goodness wherever possible with an extra stir of nut butter, a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of seeds. Try to have a routine and keep it up and have a structure for meals and snack times.

Cooking with kids

When cooking with the little ones, start simple and use two- or three-ingredient recipes. Encourage the kids to help out in the kitchen regularly by whisking eggs, buttering toast or finding the right cooking equipment.

Always prepare and read the recipe first to pick out safe and easy jobs for little helpers. Try to accept there will be both mess and chaos. Most importantly, have fun. This way the kids will enjoy the experience and want to do it again, and that’s how they’ll learn to cook in the future.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Top tips to nurture children’s eating habits appeared first on Checklists.

1. Exfoliate once a week 

To keep your hands in tip-top condition, it’s important to exfoliate at least once a week. Not only does exfoliating gently buff away dead skin cells, but it also enables the skin to absorb additional moisturising ingredients more easily to reveal softer, smoother skin. 

2. Keep on cleansing

Regular hand washing is one of the most effective ways to keep germs at bay, but it needn’t feel like a chore. Turn washing your hands into a memorable moment with a naturally nourishing collection of hand wash, antibacterial gels and triple-milled soaps, enriched with essential oils and skin-soothing ingredients to keep your hands clean and hydrated.  

3. Gently does it

Ensure to gently pat, rather than rub your hands dry with a towel after washing. Patting the skin dry can help to avoid causing any excess irritation to your skin.  

4. Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise

One of the most important things you can do to prevent dry skin is to keep your hands hydrated. Choose hand creams that contain moisturising and nourishing blends of shea butter, vitamin E, beeswax and actives of aloe vera leaf juice, known to soothe and hydrate. 

5. Treat mitts to a mask

It’s not just the face that needs an extra treat occasionally – treating thirsty hands to a hydrating mask every now and again is a great way to lock in extra moisture and nutrients.

The ideal size for carrying in your bag or keeping handy on your bedside table, try ARRAN Sense of Scotland’s Hydrating Hand Creams. These are a fast-absorbing blend of rosehip oil, vitamin E and shea butter that help to protect your skin’s natural moisture barrier and reveal instantly softer, smoother skin. Gently massaging hand cream into the skin can help circulation while also having the added bonus of warming your hands up.  

6. SPF is not just for your face

It’s all too easy to overlook the hands when it comes to applying SPF. Yet even in cooler weather, hands are still exposed to the sun’s rays. Wearing SPF is a simple and straightforward solution to treat dry skin and prevent exposure to the sun’s UV rays which can damage and dry out skin. 

Protect your hands by applying an SPF to your hands every morning no matter what the weather or season. 

7. Gloves are your hands’ best friends

If the temperature dips, bring on the gloves. From furry gloves to fluffy mittens to touchscreen styles (for those who can’t put their phones down) – there really is something for everybody and your hands will definitely thank you for it.

8. Avoid hot water

Whether you are taking a shower or bath, washing the dishes, or simply washing your hands, you should avoid using very hot water. Regular contact with water that’s too hot can dry out the skin. Warm water is much gentler on the skin and will help keep moisture locked in.

9. Keep hydrated

One integral part of daily life that is surprisingly connected to hand care, is hydration. If you feel dehydrated, it is likely that your skin is too. If you are not drinking enough water, your skin will struggle to retain moisture, so when you pick up that hand cream, remember that it is just as important that you’re hydrated on the inside. Your body will thank you, and your skin will too.

10. Eat well

Ensuring that you get the daily recommended amount of vitamins and nutrients is just as important for your skin as it is for overall health and wellbeing. Eating well and ensuring that you get everything your body needs day to day will help keep those hands supple and soft.

Discover the full ARRAN Sense of Scotland hand care collection here.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post A helping hand – the top 10 hand care tips for softer skin appeared first on Checklists.

The animals residing at Lotus give visitors a real opportunity to interact with them; something that visitors may not otherwise have the opportunity to do. This is a really important step in helping to enlighten and change the perspective that many people hold around certain species of animals.

The Lotus residents will serve as a reminder of the sentience and emotional capacity of each and every animal – a far cry from the packaged and barcoded supermarket ‘products’ they become. Through meeting the animals, adults and children alike will be able to identify that these species have exactly the same needs, emotions and behaviours that they see and feel from the pets that many of them share their homes with.

Regardless of species, all animals have a desire to live their lives and care for their babies. These animals have the ability to give and receive love, the desire to be with family and friends, the ability to grieve and be sad, to feel pain and terror, to experience pleasure and happiness, to play and be mischievous – they are non-human animals just like cats and dogs. All animals are earthlings who are interconnected and exist together on planet Earth.

As the Lotus team say: “Animals are not here for us, they are here with us. Always remember, the only difference between species is human perception.”

A big focus for Lotus Animal Sanctuary has always been on cattle. There was a requirement for a sanctuary in Scotland that would provide a forever home for cows, bullocks and calves. Some Scottish sanctuaries would take highlanders, but in 2016 when Lotus rescues began, no Scottish sanctuaries would take other breeds of cows; so the cows rescued by Lotus had to make the long journey south to sanctuaries in England.

At Lotus, they will always aim to welcome other species, and they do have sheep, but they want to make sure that Lotus will always have space and an open door for cattle in Scotland. A purpose-built cattle shed was beautifully erected in 2019 to specifically cater to the needs of these large and beautiful animals.

Ultimately, everything comes down to perception – this sanctuary exists to challenge and rebuild the way people have been conditioned to view certain animals, alongside providing cohesive and important information about animal rights, the huge impact animal agriculture has on world hunger, the environment, and how to successfully go about leading a compassionate, healthy and cruelty-free lifestyle.

Visit lotusheartsanctuary.com for more information. Follow their great work on social media @LotusHeartSanctuary and donate via PayPal or Patreon.

Lotus are currently offering the opportunity to win an overnight stay for two at the Lotus Camping Pods.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post The sanctuary where animals and humans coexist in harmony appeared first on Checklists.

If you’ve tried every remedy and are searching for some tips that could help you to manage your symptoms, there could be one easily available remedy that can reduce symptoms.

Staying hydrated to reduce hay fever symptoms

According to one expert, the secret to having less of an allergic reaction to pollen could be as simple as drinking more water. There are many benefits to staying hydrated, but according to Doran Binder, the bearded water sommelier and founder of Crag Spring Water, upping his water intake to four litres a day has had a profound impact on his hay fever. To the point that this year he claims that he hasn’t suffered from it at all, despite living in the middle of the countryside.  

He said: “There is evidence that shows that being dehydrated heightens levels of histamine so to me, it makes perfect sense. Histamine is the compound that causes symptoms of allergic reactions such as runny nose and itchy eyes. Drinking more water also thins the mucus in the nasal passage to help keep the sinuses clear.”

Doran has been drinking natural spring water from the aquifer he discovered running underneath his pub, which he now bottles and delivers to addresses all over the UK. And it’s not just drinking water that can help to reduce hay fever symptoms but washing more effectively could also reduce them.  

Move your daily shower to the evening

The skincare experts at ARRAN Sense of Scotland have lots of advice on how to shower correctly to increase the skin’s radiance, but they also advise moving the timing of your shower to manage allergies. 

Clare Logan, spokesperson from ARRAN Sense of Scotland, says: “At ARRAN Sense of Scotland we are unanimous that the best time to shower for skin is at night, with the added bonus that showering at the end of the day will remove pollen particles from your skin and hair. It’s better for your skin as it removes contaminants before you sleep, when skin will regenerate overnight. 

She continues: “You shouldn’t really wash your hair every day, but in summer there’s a trade-off, and if hay fever is really bad then it’s time to relax your rules on daily hair washing. Removing the pollen from your hair is more important if your aim is to sneeze less and sleep more. 

“If you’re really not keen on a daily wash with shampoo, then you can rinse your hair with plain water which should help. If you can stand it without too much shivering, a cold shower will help to soothe symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes or a runny nose, allowing you to breathe more easily when you go to bed.”  

Hay fever symptoms:

The NHS lists the following symptoms as being associated with hay fever: 

• Sneezing and coughing 
• A runny or blocked nose 
• Itchy, red, or watery eyes 
• Itchy throat, mouth, nose, and ears 
• Loss of smell
• Pain around your temples and forehead 
• Headache 
• Earache 
• Feeling tired.

Managing allergy symptoms

There is currently no cure for hay fever. Most hay fever symptoms can however be managed by taking antihistamines, which are available over the counter or by prescription. If your symptoms are very severe and you find that you are breathless a lot of the time you should talk to your doctor or healthcare professional. 

It’s a good idea to try and narrow down what type of pollen you are allergic to, which is often indicated by the month your symptoms are worst in. As a rough guide, grass pollen season runs from mid-May to July, while tree pollen season is from late-March to mid-May. 

Visit the Benadryl website for a full list of seasonal allergens.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Experts’ easy solutions that could hold the key to reducing hay fever symptoms appeared first on Checklists.

Checklist spoke to Yorkshire-based artist Lucy Pittaway, who has been awarded the UK’s Most Popular Published Artist for the third time at the Fine Art Trade Guild (FATG) Awards. Here she speaks about her own journey, and shares tips for fellow artists.

What were your motivations for becoming an artist and when did you realise that this was a career you wanted to pursue?

There’s always been something in my nature that has lent me towards art, I just think it’s in my genes. My mum was a creative person, and from a young age, I spent a lot of time painting, drawing, and creating crafts.

Your works are of course largely inspired by the Yorkshire Dales; do you have any other landscape influences or specific areas you would like to focus on in your work?

My work has always focused on the outdoors as it’s these environments where I feel most inspired. My travels around the world feature in my ‘Horizons’ collection but it’s the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbria that inspire me the most. That and their woolly inhabitants! That said, I do have plans to diversify and try new subjects in my work.

You’ve said your style changed once you had your children and began to see the world through their eyes. Do you think this might happen again as they grow, or as you yourself grow?

Absolutely. My artistic style has changed a lot over the years, and it would be reasonable to expect that it will change again in the future as I continue to experience life. There are also other parts of my life that I would like to express through my pieces and whilst the style may feel familiar, there will be obvious changes to the subjects and narrative of the pieces.

You have even commissioned a gift for HRH Princess Anne. What did that mean for you as an artist, and what were your inspirations for It’s a Wonderful Life?

I was honoured to be invited to create a commissioned piece for HRH Princess Anne and it was wonderful to meet her. The brief was to create something that would remind her of her visit to the Yorkshire Dales, in particular, Wensleydale. I chose a soft palette of colours and placed four sheep in the painting to represent her immediate family, and the butterflies represented her grandchildren. 

How do you think online markets, or social media in particular, have changed how artists sell their work as opposed to the gallery format? And what has this new market meant for you?

Currently, we sell directly through our flagship galleries and online store, plus several select retailers, however as time goes on and the online space continues to develop, new marketplaces are becoming difficult to ignore. People consume information, make decisions, and take action on so many different platforms now that a broader approach to retailing is vital for survival. As a business we’ve been able to pivot ourselves into the e-commerce space and fully understand the potential for online retailing, but there’s something about seeing a piece of art in person, framed and on a wall that engages the senses and ignites your emotions.

Do you have any tips for those who may struggle with discipline or finding a balance between painting and business?

The work-life balance is a challenge that affects everyone, but when you add in other factors such as being a business owner and a parent, this is when it gets tough. I practice mindfulness including meditations, journaling, and yoga. These really help me reflect on myself and feel grateful and well-balanced at times when things are tough. I also love being outdoors, nature not only inspires me as an artist but invigorates my soul, so when we spend time as a family in the Lake District, I’m very happy.

What advice would you give to fellow aspiring artists looking to follow their dreams as you did?

Don’t expect the journey to be easy! Being in business is challenging and you need to be extremely adaptable. But it’s important that you go for it nonetheless because it can be incredibly rewarding and turn out better than your expectations. Believe in yourself and who knows where it will take you.

How does it feel to be the UK’s Most Popular Published Artist? That’s quite an achievement.

It’s an incredible honour to receive this accolade for the third time and isn’t something I take for granted. It makes all the hard work worthwhile and knowing that people are still enjoying my art is very humbling.

Finally, what are you working on next? Do you have any particularly exciting projects or partnerships in the pipeline?

From a creative perspective, I will be taking my artwork in a new direction very soon and exploring some new themes, subjects, and topics that I hope people will enjoy. Watch this space!

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post The UK’s most popular published artist shares advice for making your mark in the industry appeared first on Checklists.

1. Tyrrells

Established in 2002, Tyrrells of Tyrrells Court Farm, Herefordshire have been making delicious hand-cooked crisps for a jolly long time – and they’re rather good at it. Their eclectic cast of eccentric characters and sublime flavours convey their proud British roots. They love entertaining, have a taste for the good life, and are a convivial, gastronomic bunch.

Tyrrells believe their crisps are the cream of the crop. Exquisitely dressed (their spuds keep their jackets on), hand-cooked and spun for freshness – you’ll find little grease here, not to mention their signature curl and crunch. All topped off with seasoning made with only the very finest ingredients – resulting in crisps that are Tyrrellbly Tyrrellbly Tasty.

Visit tyrrellscrisps.co.uk

2. Popcorn Shed

Game, Set, POP! with Popcorn Shed’s new and indulgent Strawberries & Cream popcorn. Having just launched on Monday, 16 May, it’s set to be the perfect summer treat.

This iconic British duo of smooth creamy caramel infused with sweet, dried strawberries is as luscious and luxurious as it is timeless. They’ve really knocked this flavour out of the court.

Popcorn Shed are delighted to have launched this flavour in time for the Queen’s Jubilee. Nothing says British summer quite like strawberries and cream.

This is the perfect summertime treat for picnics in the park or an afternoon watching the tennis – it’s also the perfect treat to serve with a spot of afternoon tea.

What’s more, with VE Day approaching along with The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, there couldn’t be a better time to stock up on this superb British treat.

Popcorn Shed hope you enjoy this little taste of summer – come rain or shine!

Visit popcornshed.com

3. Blushing Cook

To celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Blushing Cook have created these floral brownies, featuring the Queen’s ever beloved corgis who have been her loyal companions for her 70 years of reign.

Blushing Cook’s classic fudgy and delicious chocolate brownie is topped with white chocolate, signature edible flowers and a beautiful and bespoke design by London-based illustrator Emma Block. Each brownie is hand-decorated – making every one completely unique. The brownies are made with the finest ingredients, including chocolate made from 100% sustainable cocoa, and decorated with organically grown edible flowers grown in Devon.

Blushing Cook provide a serving guide for the brownies which are delivered uncut, to allow for full impact of the design. They are presented in a gorgeous hand-stamped and recyclable gift box, wrapped in twine and available to deliver anywhere in the UK with a hand-written personal note of your choice. Gluten-free and vegan options are also available.

Visit blushingcook.com

4. Royal Pickle

In celebration of Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee, Tracklements – purveyors of perfect planet-friendly pickles – have created a limited-edition Right Royal Pickle.

Made with a selection of vegetables including tasty Lincolnshire onions and a careful combo of sweet (Muscovado sugar) and sour (malt vinegar) along with tamarind paste, chilli, all spice and lemon juice, this is everything you want in a pickle – a toothsome crunch, a sweet tang and a sharp bite.

Crack open a kilner jar of Tracklements Right Royal Pickle with a traditional British Ploughman’s, a bit of flinty cheddar, a few thick slices of Wiltshire ham or, of course, a Scotch egg – a right Royal favourite.

Tracklements Right Royal Pickle, RRP £5.80 for a 200g kilner jar, is available from fine food delis and farm shops nationwide and online. 

Visit tracklements.co.uk

5. Beanies

With the Jubilee fast approaching, flavoured coffee specialist Beanies is paying tribute to the Queen with a strictly limited-edition Jubilee Cake flavour coffee. This exclusive edition celebrates the Platinum Jubilee in style.

Based on its popular Birthday Cake flavour coffee, the limited-edition coffee offers a delicious combo of strawberry jam, sweet vanilla sponge and cream filling – but with zero calories and none of the guilt.

Give it your very own royal seal of approval and buy yours now. Stock is limited, so unlike the Monarch, this won’t be around for 70 years. Jubilee Cake flavoured coffee is exclusively available on the Beanies website, unlike the Beanies products offered in supermarkets nationwide.

Visit beaniesflavourco.co.uk

6. Trewithen Dairy’s Cornish Cream Tea Hampers

This is the perfect gift for anyone who loves fluffy scones generously smothered in golden crusted clotted cream. With a selection of Cornish produce to complement their award-winning clotted cream, Trewithen Dairy’s range of hampers make perfect gifts from the heart of Cornwall.

The hamper contains all the essentials for a perfect cream tea – remember to put the jam on first, the Cornish way. And remember to leave cutting your scones until you’re just about to enjoy them – it keeps them much fresher.           

Party size clotted creams are also available for those larger celebrations – the perfect quintessentially British treat for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Visit trewithendairy.co.uk

7. Pique Picnic

Renowned picnic and hamper specialist PIQUE have teamed up with award-winning sparkling winemaker, THE UNCOMMON to create a beautifully British-inspired picnic by two independent English brands. The Jubilee will be bursting with traditional fare and cool cans of bubbly to toast the longest-reigning monarch and will be available nationwide from Thursday, 2 June and throughout the summer.

Honeywell Biscuit Co. have created two deliciously good collections to celebrate the Jubilee. The first is the cutest Corgis Biscuit Gift Set, these hand-iced vanilla set of four corgis biscuits and a 70 edible badge come carefully wrapped in a recycled box.

For something that bit more regal, the personalised Crown Biscuit (£25) looks almost too good to eat. Hand cut, baked and piped in-house by the Honeywell Biscuit artists, each crown is given a one of a kind royal treatment.

Visit piquefood.co.uk and honeywellbakes.com

8. Bonne Maman

The special early June bank holiday for the Queen’s Jubilee is definitely a time to showcase the red, white and blue with some truly delicious and patriotic celebratory cakes for parties big and small.

Bonne Maman’s Jubilee Cupcakes are great fun to make with all the family and add a suitably royal presence to the afternoon tea table. Made with a rich red chocolate sponge, then topped with Bonne Maman Strawberry or Wild Blueberry Conserve, a generous swirl of vanilla cream frosting and some edible, sparkling flower mini crowns.

It’s time to bring out the bunting and toast Her Majesty’s incredible 70-year achievement with this wonderful Lemon and Pistachio Celebration Cake showstopper. A light lemon and pistachio sponge, layered alternately with Bonne Maman Raspberry and Wild Blueberry Conserves, luscious, whipped cream and then topped with fresh fruits. These are best accompanied by a glass of fizz.

Visit bonnemaman.co.uk

9. Wensleydale Creamery’s Platinum Jubilee Cheese Box

To celebrate a momentous occasion for the monarch, the Wensleydale Creamery has launched a brand-new, exclusive Platinum Jubilee Box, containing all you need to enjoy an afternoon tea with an ultimate cheese tasting experience.

Available to order for home delivery, and containing everything you need to create a brilliant afternoon tea experience, The Platinum Jubilee Box is filled with delicious cheese and treats to accompany your celebrations for hosting a luxurious afternoon tea at home, a street party or bank holiday gathering.

Filled to the brim with exceptional quality, artisan produce, the special edition cheese box is just £45, available from the Wensleydale Creamery website, with a pre-order service available with delivery in time for the Jubilee celebrations.

Visit wensleydale.co.uk

10. Hackney Strawberries and Cream Ice Cream

For the best Jubilee party food, how about the incredible Clotted Cream & Strawberry ice cream from Hackney Gelato?

A Great Taste award winner, this recipe is made by rippling homemade strawberry jam into a Cornish clotted cream gelato. It’s very British and molto Italiano and it’s the food equivalent of Vivaldi having afternoon tea with Her Majesty on the lawn of Buckingham Palace – perfect to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee!

Hackney Gelato is stocked in supermarkets and restaurants across the UK and London including Harrods. There is no better inclusion for a street party.

Visit hackneygelato.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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