Author: Karen Contrino

 A charming, family-run restaurant in the heart of Edinburgh is leading the charge for a new sense of community and collaboration among local small businesses this holiday season. In a time when many are feeling the financial pinch, this innovative initiative aims to foster a culture of community over competition, by encouraging small hospitality businesses to swap resources and services. This holiday season, instead of splurging on extravagant staff parties at corporate venues, the owner of Tani Modi has proposed a creative and budget-friendly alternative. The concept is simple yet impactful: a restaurant swap. Under this initiative, one small restaurant hosts the…

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This festive season, Ayllu Restaurant invites guests to immerse themselves in an exceptional dining experience blending Japanese and Peruvian flavours with holiday classics. From a special Christmas tasting menu to a luxurious six-course feast on Christmas Day and a New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball, Ayllu promises to make this festive period unforgettable. Festive Tasting Menu From the 25th November – 24th December, Ayllu’s festive tasting menu offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines, expertly crafted to bring warmth and celebration to the holiday season. Starting at just £45, guests can enjoy an array of courses that highlight both…

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Smith’s Bar & Grill, a beloved restaurant in the heart of Paddington, invited guests to celebrate the festive season in style with a specially crafted menu and exclusive seasonal events. From a delectable three-course festive set menu to unforgettable Christmas Day dining and a grand New Year’s Eve masquerade ball, Smith’s promises an atmosphere of warmth, elegance, and a delicious feast. Festive Menu Indulge in the finest flavours of the season with Smith’s three-course festive set menu for £70pp, a perfect choice for gatherings with family, friends, or colleagues. Available from the 25th November – 24th December. Diners can choose…

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Get ready to make this holiday season unforgettable with A Very Vegan Christmas  – The Complete Mini Cookbook for a Magical Festive Feast, available now, exclusively on the Viva! shop. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or preparing an intimate dinner, this new mini cookbook is set to transform your Christmas spread into an event to remember. Packed with 30 mouthwatering recipes, A Very Vegan Christmas brings together showstopping starters, magnificent mains, essential sides and indulgent desserts, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From delectable dishes to festive gifts and drinks, this collection is designed to wow your guests and make…

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 On 7 November, ImpactCity will bring together around 1,500 impact makers from all over the world in The Hague at ImpactFest. The event primarily attracts startups, scale-ups, investors, knowledge institutions, policymakers, and other passionate individuals working towards a sustainable, inclusive, and fair economy. In the Fokker Terminal, they will share their knowledge and build networks to tackle global challenges. Climate activist Faiza Oulahsen, who made headlines this month with her move from Greenpeace to KPMG, will deliver the keynote address. Cross-border programme In addition to themes like circular economy, food systems, energy transition, and climate justice, this year’s edition will also…

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With rising energy costs, Jane Halton, Home Living Expert at Chase Roof Inspections, has revealed ways UK households can enjoy festive decor without increasing their energy bills. By following these updated strategies, families can cut down on holiday costs while still achieving a bright, beautiful home for Christmas. “Holiday decorations don’t have to be expensive or energy-draining,” says Halton. “With these smart choices, families can save up to £100 this season and still create a festive atmosphere.” Use Timers to Limit Outdoor Displays’ Run Time Setting lights to turn on only for key evening hours—such as from dusk until bedtime—can dramatically reduce…

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Over half (58%) of Brits report feeling the pressures of the “mealtime mental load” as they navigate weekly meal planning, grocery shopping and cooking Brits admit to finding mealtime planning more stressful than managing finances with nine in ten claiming they aren’t getting support from their households when it comes to mealtime planning Recipe box Gousto, who lightens the nation’s mealtime mental load, is launching a humorous limited edition line of plates, inspired by the nation’s mealtime gripes, in collaboration with acclaimed artist Margo in Margate London 29 October 2024:  As Brits grapple with the fast pace of modern life, over half of…

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EMILY IN PARIS revolves around Emily, an ambitious twenty-something marketing executive from Chicago, who unexpectedly lands her dream job in Paris. Her new life is filled with intoxicating adventures and surprising challenges as she juggles work, friendships, and romance. During Season 3 of EMILY IN PARIS, Emily tasted and loved the French cocktail Kir Royale and pitched it as a ready-to-drink can to her agency clients.    In Season 4 Episode 3 “Masquerade”, sees Emily presenting Chamère, her Kir Royale ready-to-drink cocktail to her team. In collaboration with Paramount and MTV Entertainment Studios, Quintessential Brands Group has brought the product to life. Made with the finest French sparkling…

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Families have been offered eight tips to help them carve the ultimate pumpkin or jack-o’-lantern this Halloween. Lighting experts from LightingLegends.com have revealed everything from how to choose the right pumpkin, to preventing potential fire hazards. (Image source: Shutterstock) Using the right tools and planning designs before diving in can help prevent common carving mistakes that might leave pumpkins looking worn out and dreary this Halloween. Carvers have also been told to cut holes in the bottom of their pumpkins instead of the top, as this will help to keep the sides sturdier and prevent the pumpkin from caving in over time. To…

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In celebration of Fair Trade Month, SAMBAZON, the leading and first Certified Organic & Fair-Trade Açaí provider, is reinforcing its commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability in the Middle East. As part of its ongoing mission to support the environment and the people behind its products, SAMBAZON continues to prioritize the well-being of small-scale farmers through its Fair-Trade practices. Fair Trade Month is celebrated globally throughout October to recognize the importance of fair wages, ethical working conditions and environmental protection for farmers and workers. For SAMBAZON, these principles are the foundation of its business model. By adhering to Fair Trade…

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