Andy Cosgrove liked it and he put a ring on it so the gorgeous Gemma Garrett is no longer one of the single ladies.
Former Miss Great Britain, model and TV presenter, Gemma Garrett, (28) yesterday [02 September 2010] married her long term friend Andrew Cosgrove. The couple celebrated their big day - a tasteful mixture between traditional and contemporary style - in the striking Ten Square Hotel in the heart of Belfast.
The happy couple have been firm friends for years, having met through a mutual friend, but besotted Andy proposed on the 13th February this year after a whirlwind romance of just seven months as a couple.
Gemma looked simply stunning in her special dress which was flown in from America by White Butterfly Bridal. The bridesmaid dresses, jewellery, shoes and all other accessories also came from the family-run boutique just outside Belfast. The lucky ladies wearing the elegant bridesmaid dresses were Gemma's sister Lisa Stewart, her childhood best friend Jeane Simpson and Andy's sister Emma Cosgrove, with her niece Sophie Stewart as flower girl to add the cute factor. Mother of the bride, Margaret Garrett wore a beautiful Sangria coloured John Charles ensemble from The Wardrobe in Ballyclare topped with an amazing bespoke headpiece by Grainne Maher Millinery.
The event planning was overseen by Ant and Dick, one of the UK and Ireland's best loved planning duos. Melanie McGimpsey at Mood Event Decoration has worked in the fashion industry for many years as a stylist and visual merchandiser/set designer created a chic look for the Porcelain suite in Ten Square for Gemma & Andy.
A very relaxed Gemma said: "I counted down the days with anticipation and excitement, I'm so happy to have fallen in love with my best friend; and I'm delighted to be Mrs Andy Cosgrove and to spend the rest of my life with him!" Awwww. Congratulations Gemma & Andy from all The Sugahfix Gals. xoxo
The Sugahfix Gals are huge fans of anything quirky and kitsch and we love Claire Smyth's blog ‘World of Kitsch'. We even follow her on twitter at www.twitter.com/rudedoodle so we're super pleased that Claire has been shortlisted for Cosmo Blog Awards in the lifestyle section. YAY! Go Claire!
If you haven't yet enjoyed Claire's musings on all things kitsch we asked the lady herself how she'd sum up her blog. "I'd describe my blog as a collection of oddities, curiosities and treasures from my own home. Kitsch, retro, vintage items of questionable taste. Ugly and tacky reign supreme!"
Over 15,000 blogs were nominated for the Cosmo Blog Awards and while Claire has got through to the shortlist - in true X Factor style - she needs your vote!!
Sugahfix.com founder and editor Katrina Doran will be filling in for Voodoo boss Lucy Evangelista at Voodoo IMS class this Sunday 8th August.
Katrina will also be styling the photoshoots with stunning designer dresses from Blush as well as some treats and tricks from her styling kit.
"Unlike Lucy, I'm not a model (laughs) but I've been styling and art directing fashion and beauty photoshoots for 12 years here in Belfast and worked in London with top model agencies, photographers, hair and make-up teams during my time at ELLE. I'm always on the other side of the camera watching everything and checking the tiny details; the slightest tilt of the head or angle of an arm can make a nice shot breathtaking - that's my skill."
So what happens on the day at at Voodoo IMS class? Top fashion photographers Ciaran & Simon O'Neill will take a full portfolio with head shot, full length, bikini and also themed fashion shots. Make-up and hair is changed throughout the day depending on which shoot you are doing. Katrina will be on hand to direct and help with poses.
If you want to kickstart your portfolio for a potential career in the modeling industry or just want to be pampered, have a confidence boost and have amazing photos for your facebook profile then this is a must do!
Contact Lucy
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to snap up the last few places.
Left: A shot from Katrina's most recent fashion shoot 'Enchantment' which was shot on location in Parkanaur Forest Park in Dungannon. Art Direction and Styling by Katrina Doran, Photography by Brendan Gallagher, Dress from Candy Plum, Model - Catherine McAteer, Make-up by Julie Davidson, Hair by Olivia Muldoon, Mirror from Derrys Furniture Emporium.
Pride - In The Name Of Love
Thursday, 05 August 2010 12:13
Sugahfix photog Jessica Weber swaps her sartorial eye for photo journalism with her evocative shots of Saturday's Gay Pride parade in Belfast City Centre. Even the weather joined in and supported the parade adding a sparkle of sunshine after the morning's downpour - a fitting celebration for our fabulous rainbow people.
"When I arrived at the City Hall all I could hear was shouting and preaching from the few Christian protesters through a microphone and it was absolutely lashing down. Crowds started gathering around them, getting ready to watch the parade. After 45 mins of an unrelenting downpour the rain suddenly stopped just as the parade started and the sun came out and beamed down.
"Hundreds of people had gathered and watched the colourful parade. It was so much fun. The outfits were outrageous and colourful. Lots of creativity.
"The nicest thing to see was that there was so many age groups and variety of people walking at Pride. From 6 month old babies (with parents obviously lol), drag queens to young couples holding hands to Ministers. There was a feeling or real happiness to the day and everyone seemed quite proud to be part of something special."
Photography by Jessica Weber.
Click on any of the images below and then click through the slide show.
The Merchant Hotel, Belfast, Opens Its New Chapter
Thursday, 29 July 2010 22:29
By Katrina Doran.
The Merchant Hotel is full of stories. If the cherubs in the Great Hall could whisper the opulent tales from the buildings past life as head office of the Ulster Bank in all its Victorian voluptuousness - what tales they could tell! And now in its current incarnation as a luxury 5 star hotel, the guests that have passed through its decadent doors all have stories of their own. The cherubs have perused it all.
On Saturday 31st July the hotel is about to start a whole new story with the opening of its 'New Chapter' housing the first ever luxury city centre hotel Spa, state-of-the-art roof top gymnasium, roof-top garden and authentic Jazz bar.
Berts Bar is reminiscent of celebrity hot spot Balthazar in New York and even though it is pristine and new - there are stories just waiting to be told in its leather-backed curved booths.
The "Rita Duffy Room", named after the renowned local artist, located on the first floor, enjoys panoramic views over High Street and can accommodate up to 120 people for gala dinners and stylish weddings. 40 weddings are already booked in to begin new stories of love and romance.
Wow is an important word in the tale of the Merchant Hotel and it is used with great emphasis on the top floor as you walk out onto the rooftop Jacuzzi (pictured left) with views over the Albert Clock and as far as Scrabo Tower in the distance.
The 38 new "Deco Decadent" bedrooms perfectly compliment the "Victorian Splendour" rooms, which have been so popular with guests since the lavish property opened in 2006. Each room features bespoke furniture pieces by iconic designer Corbusier and Eileen Gray and local designer Judith Cassidy, and while the décor is divine the bit that really had us cooing with delight was the make-up area, complete with Hollywood mirror which is discretely concealed in the wardrobe.
The state-of-the-art in-room entertainment system contains the best stories of all with a selection of children's bedtime tales narrated by the velvety-voiced actor Jimmy Nesbitt. Classic Irish fairy tales including the The Children of Lir as well as a few Dr Seuss tongue-twisters were recorded specially for the hotels younger residents but the Sugahfix gals are loving the idea of having Jimmy tell us a bedtime story!
The New Chapter is open to the public from Saturday 31st July 2010, for reservations please call 028 9023 4888 www.themerchanthotel.com.
Diet Coke Break for Belfast!
Thursday, 08 July 2010 12:31
By Katrina Doran.
Belfast beauty addicts and fashion fans are being invited to take a Diet Coke break this October at the 'Love it Light' Roadshow, a style and pamper tour of Ireland in a custom built 1965 Airstream named 'The Silver Palace'.
Una Healy from The Saturdays launched the tour in Dublin and was joined by Belfast model and presenter Katie Larmour who was ‘loving it light' for us Northern gals.
Checking out the photos from the launch the Sugahfix gals reckon our Sugahpal Katie would take pop sensation Una in a battle of the most fabulous hair. Una's wavey look is great but our Katie's trademark tresses could outswish Una any day of the week! Yay! Go Katie!
The 'Love it Light' tour is encouraging Diet Coke fans to enjoy a lighter attitude to life and indulge in complimentary treats from expert beauty partners Rimmel London and Sally Hansen, and on site style-advice from TV Stylist Laura Cunninghan.
The tour travels around Ireland and closes in Belfast for Belfast Fashion Week in October.
Grounded Espresso had something to celebrate after winning the title of ‘Best Cafe in Belfast' at the Belfast City Council Business Awards.
Owner Graeme Finnegan and the team celebrated this prestigious accolade with a party in their Boucher Crescent cafe.
Befitting with the occassion - Local singer / songwriter Joe Echo, who has just supported Paul McCartney in Hyde Park and performed a live set at the party including his Emmy nominated song ‘Celebration' which he co-wrote for Madonna.
Graeme Finnegan from Grounded says; "I am absolutely thrilled that Grounded scooped the ‘Best Cafe' award and I must thank all the team in Grounded for their dedication, hard work and passion, as without them this award would never have been possible."
It was a double celebration for Grounded in Belfast and Newry as they are also the only cafe in Northern Ireland to have been accredited with the ‘Gold Standard for Filtered Coffee' award.
Show Me The...Kitchen?!
Wednesday, 07 July 2010 17:16
Dundrum funny man, Patrick Kielty was on top form at the recent KRI Awards in Dublin - the first ever event rewarding excellence in kitchen design, innovation and customer service in Ireland.
After announcing that Northern Ireland company, McAuley Kitchens scooped the ‘Best Kitchen Showroom' award for their Boucher Road, Belfast showroom he immediately grabbed his pint of Guinness to toast their success.
Wesley McAuley, Director of McAuley Kitchens said: "When we chose the site on Boucher Road it was a vast empty shell. Our plan was to fill that space with great kitchens using all of our knowledge and know-how amassed over 50 years so to be named ‘Best Kitchen Showroom in Northern Ireland' is a wonderful way to celebrate our achievements.
"We put a lot of thought, time and energy into the layout and ambience of the showroom and the decisions we made, from what brands we featured to the placement of our lighting, were all taken with our customers at the forefront of our minds.
"We have a first class team delivering a high standard of customer service across all of our disciplines, from consultation to installation, and our commitment to quality workmanship will continue to be the cornerstone of how we do business."
McAuley Kitchens stock an impressive range of kitchen brands including Alno, Second Nature, Metris and Kitchen Stori.
For further information log onto www.mcauleykitchens.com or call them on 028 90 271910 for their Belfast showroom or 028 27 664944 for their Ballymoney showroom.
Sugahfix.com Wins Specialist Digital Innovation of the Year - YAY!!!
Friday, 18 June 2010 14:48
By Katrina Doran.
Founder & Editor
Your fave online guide to fashion, beauty, entertainment and style is now award-winning!!!
Sugahfix.com picked up a prestigious win at the CIPR Press & Broadcast Awards as category winner- Specialist Digital Innovation of the Year.
The Specialist category was defined as strong editorial/commentary appealing to a targeted audience so we're super pleased our female-focused content has been recognised by such an esteemed awards as CIPR Press and Broadcast.
We're beyond pleased with the win and we were even more chuffed when we realised we'd passed a devilishly clever little test by one of the judges. Check out what the judges had to say....
Category winner, Specialist Digital Innovation of the Year
Sugahfix.com
This year's winner came to the attention of the judges a year ago and received a special commendation for its lively and innovative site that provides a unique service to people in Northern Ireland interested in fashion. But in competition with major news websites, this niche market product fell just outside the winning criteria.
This year there are two categories and although that was not enough in itself to award the Specialist Digital Innovation of the Year to them, the improvements in the site with their links to social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter along with the expansion of the content,services to readers and the doubling of its reach during the year makes them a clear winner.
One judge makes no apology for sending a little test to several fashion websites asking for help to track down a particular dress to wear at her daughter's wedding, wondering if she would get any responses. In fact she got two from the winner, one within minuteshelpful and friendly email within 24 hours from Katrina Doran, written at 10.32pm no doubt after a hard day's work. The judge is still waiting for a reply from another site in the specialist category. via a link to the Belfast designer Lizzie Agnew and a
In addition to providing a brilliant service for people, mainly women, hungry for information and expert advice on fashion the winner seems to have created an online community for like-minded people, mainly women, and given social networking something of a turbo boost. For those achievements, the winner is Sugahfix.com.
How cool is that?!!! :)
Bellaire Babes
Friday, 18 June 2010 11:44
By Katrina Doran.
Bellaire Hair & Beauty hosted a glamorous opening party on Saturday night packed wall-to-wall with local celebs who came out to support the new venture and to check out the new treatment space and products on offer.
Guests were treated to delicious canapés and chilled champagne, and the party atmosphere was in full flow tunes mixed by CoolFMs Pete Snodden - they shimmyed in the salon and boogied in the beauty rooms!
Zoe Salmon left the bright lights of London for the weekend to walk the red carpet in Belfast in a stunning maxi dress slit up to the thigh, showing off her fabulous figure! The Sugahfix gals heard that Zoe had indulged in spa treatments earlier in the day - that certainly explaines her relaxed glow. Models Katie Larmour and Caroline Davis showed the Bellaire staff they know a thing or two about hair with an impromptu shampoo at the backwashes!
Other celebs included Big Brother babe Orlaith McAllistar and the gorgeous former Miss Great Britain and soon-to-be-wed Gemma Garrett were also in attendance with her lucky man and future in-laws. Drag Queen Lady Portia DiMonte also made an appearance to check out the newest haunt for the finest fakery for everything from nails and spray tans to teeth whitening.
After the party at Bellaire the lucky guests were transported in chauffeur driven Bentleys round to the after party in 21 Social in true Hollywood style. The party continued courtesy of the gracious Bellaire hosts with guests dancing into the small hours of the morning.
Momiji have teamed up with UK charity; Knickers 4 Africa, to help people living in poverty. Momiji hope to bring the world together using social networking site, Twitter, to donate as many pairs of pants as they can as well as giving 10 lucky followers a little treat for themselves.
It's not easy to discuss knickers without sounding silly, but imagine having to live without them?! For many people in the developing world such basic items are a luxury. Knickers 4 Africa is a charity who focuses solely on donating underwear to people in Africa.
The Twitter fundraising campaign, playfully dubbed the ‘Momiji Pants Party', will allow people across the world to help. Momiji have promised to donate a pair of pants to the charity for every 2 messages posted into Twitter and are entering every single message into a prize draw. 10 lucky Momiji followers who tweet this message will win a Momiji goodie pack. Twitter users simply need to copy and paste the following message into their Twitter feed;
has just thrown Pants at you! (and donated some to Africa) #MomijiPantsParty http://ow.ly/1MrAx
This unusual approach to fundraising is designed to spread awareness about the charity and its work, whilst making a very real difference to people's lives. Twitter feeds across the world will soon be full of people throwing pants at each other in the name of charity. Will you be joining the Momiji Pants Party?
Fabulous! for ClIC Sargent...did you get a ticket?
Wednesday, 26 May 2010 22:24
Fabulous! For CLIC Sargent sold out weeks before the event leaving many fashionistas missing out on what was a truly Fabulous! evening.
Here's your chance to catch up on what went on at The Tannery, Moira that night with Fabulous's own Julie Leitch's review of the proceedings.
Well, after the Fabulous! guests (all impeccably turned out) finished their Fabulous! Fizzy reception they were served their truly Fabulous! Food which was expertly prepared by none other than Derek Patterson and his very capable team.
Dr Wendy Austin and Glen Pavis ensured the Fabulous! guests knew why they were there, to enjoy a Fabulous! decadent night in aid of a very worthy cause CLIC Sargent.
Then the Fabulous! Fashion collection showed up right on cue to the perfect accompanying music mixed by Jay Kay. The Fabulous! team of models didn't have any arguments who was wearing what as the choices were to die for! Strolling around they did a superb job of giving the viewer an up close and personal look at their outfits. Guests loved the relaxed environment allowing them to discuss the outfits there and then whilst still nibbling the tapas and sipping the wine.
Guests were treated to a Fabulous! selection from Candy Plum, Wish Bridal, Eden Park and Pulse Clothing. The whispers on the night, getting louder by the second run (given the wine consumed along with desert between) were all echoing the same thing "I want that, and that and that.....ohhh and that!" I have to admit the choices on show left the viewer in a terrible situation of how to choose what outfit to commit to and not buy everything!
Candy Plum's Zara Beggs was on hand to reserve Fabulous! favourites for future purchases and talk through the hidden gems that complimented the collection on show.
Wish Bridal's display of "Wow" inducing dresses (pictured left) even tempted a few "Fiancées" to reconsider their current chosen dress.
Whilst the Fabulous! Guests were treated to fashion for themselves, the addition of Eden Park and Pulse Menswear gave them the opportunity to mentally redress the man in their life. I have to admit, the show induced a slight spending spree on behalf of my husband as I couldn't resist the gorgeous Eden Park Navy and Pink trimmed Boating Jacket shown very professionally by Nicholas Gray (Mens Health Cover an achievable ambition!) on the night.
Pulse Clothing brought forth an "of the minute" look for the men showcasing their exclusive brand Luke. The choices were all impeccable and left every woman in the room with a vision of their man reworked by Pulse!
Backstage was certainly one of the best places to be with enthusiastic helpers and models getting a preview of all the gorgeous clothes. One of the most coveted items of the night had to be Candy Plum's Kate Fearnley dress as modelled on the night by the striking Nicole Charda Toan.
A night like this wouldn't be anywhere close to Fabulous! unless it reached ALL of its goals so lets think... Fabulous! venue, guests, hosts, models and music (breathe!) Fabulous! Fashion, food, drink, prizes and atmosphere tick, tick, tick, tick, tick, tick, and Fabulous! fundraising??........having raised over £6000 most definitely the biggest tick.
So next time if you fancy experiencing the Fabulousness of Fabulous! For....get your tickets early because it's sure to sell out fast!
The winner of our fabulous Sex and the City 2 pre-party, preview and shopping spree, Victoria Cleland, scooped the grand prize for several reasons.
Firstly - her insightful quotes from the series proved was she is clearly a SATC mega fan!, secondly because she totally 'loves it light' in the spirit of Diet Coke quoting that "if we got the opportunity to shop at House of Fraser, we would rock it to its core!" - love it!
And thirdly Victoria and her pals have been friends since school and totally understand the importance of friendship and loyalty just like Carrie, Miranda, Samantha and Charlotte. We also loved the fact that Victoria hadn't considered the shopping spree prize for House of Fraser was actually for her alone - her pals are clearly such a tight knit group that she wasn't thinking of herself but of her gal pals and how they could enjoy the party, the screening and the shopping in one big giggling girlie mass!
Congrats Victoria - and hope all your gals have a fab night tomorrow night xoxo
Victoria won..
• a session with a House of Fraser Personal Shopper - to help you spend £100 on Tommy Hilfiger plus £150 to splurge on a gorgeous new outfit as well as pampering treatments from Estee lauder -all at House of Fraser, Belfast.
• 4 Golden tickets to the Diet Coke/Sex and the City 2 Pre-Party & Cocktail reception at Ten Square Hotel on Thursday 27th May at 8.00pm
• Transportation to the exclusive VIP midnight screening of Sex and the City 2 at Movie House, Dublin Road, Belfast.
The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast on the 'Hot List' of the most 'Cool'
Thursday, 20 May 2010 00:01
The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast has been included in the new Condé Nast Traveller ‘Hot List' of 66 hotels worldwide. It is one of just six UK hotels to be included on the list and is the only Irish hotel to receive this accolade.
According to the prestigious travel magazine, these hotels are ‘the coolest new hotels in the world'. Condé Nast Traveller compiled the list according to independent reviews from its correspondents on every continent.
The modern, stylish and luxurious ‘design hotel', currently celebrating its first birthday, is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland. It has quickly become the ‘place to be seen' in Belfast.
The review of The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast highlights not only its distinctive design features but also the popularity of its bar, afternoon teas and restaurant Menu by Kevin Thornton with Belfast residents.
The restaurant, overseen by the Michelin-starred chef, has been named the ‘Best Hotel Restaurant in Antrim' in the Restaurant Association of Ireland's Irish Restaurant Awards 2010.
Menu by Kevin Thornton has quickly gained a reputation in its first year since opening for quality food and drink made with the finest local and seasonal Northern Irish produce.
Sugahfix.com is two years old! We're about to make some amazing changes and updates to the site so hold on to you hats gals - year 3 for Sugahfix is gonna be BIG!
We hope you can come along to help us celebrate at our birthday party on Saturday night (1st may) at The Ivory. Chill out on the terrace or party on the dancefloor - it's gonna be a fab night. If you've never been to our Ebony at The Ivory events - the best way to describe them is a unique club experience - all the super cool tunes to get you moving in an stylish venue with the best terrace in Belfast but room enough to actually be able to catch up with friends and have a great nights chat and craic. We love it!
The party will also feature the Sugahfix.com Cupcake Challenge - which started as a random idea when we noticed lots of new cupcake businesses popping up on facebook. The Sugahfix Gals are partial to a sweet treat so we decided to see if we could come up with a creative idea of finding out who made the best cupcakes in the land and The Sugahfix.com Cupcake Challenge was born.
Of course we don't do things by half so we've put our heart and soul in the whole judging process, came up with a super cute logo for winners to display on their promotional materials and we'll have certificates for the winners on the night too - we've probably got completely carried away but we're super excited to give a boost to these sweet new business start-ups.
And you'll be able to taste them too as the judges will be plucked from the people attending the party and there will also be lots of cupcakes for everyone to sample and enjoy. If you want to get in on the cupcake action make sure you are there early - before 10pm!
As part of Fair Trade Fortnight, a campaign developed by the Fair Trade Foundation helping people in developing nations, a Northern Irish businessman has taken the whole concept and brought it to a fashionable new level.
Graeme Finnegan, owner of Grounded Expresso Bars in Newry and on the Boucher Road, Belfast has combined his ethical and moral work practice with his passion for fashion and gave empty coffee sacks to first year fashion students at the University of Ulster to recycle.
During Fair Trade Fortnight, the students transformed these sacks into fabulously fashionable handbags.
When organisers of the Magners Light Spring into Summer Fashion event, Michelle McTernan and Tracey Hall, saw these innovative creations, they invited the undergraduates to showcase them at the show at St George's Market last week.
The winning student was Sharon McDaid, who walked away with a trip to Newquay in Cornwall, sponsored by Jet2.com, as well as a year's supply of coffee from Grounded.
Graeme, whose Grounded Expresso Bars won Fair Trade Cafe of the Year 2009, was delighted that his humble idea was picked up by the prestigious fashion show.
Graeme says; "The University of Ulster students transformed these bags so creatively and demonstrates their innovation. I was very proud to see the bags grace the Style Academy models at Spring into Summer and hopefully this will become an annual project for the University of Ulster.
As a member of the Fairtrade Steering Committee in Newry, I am totally dedicated to promoting the movement to Newry Businesses and schools and now am focusing my efforts in Belfast.. All the University of Ulster students loved designing the bags and have even asked for more coffee sacks to transform, as friends and family want to buy them!"
"I am consistently aiming to develop, promote and grow the use of Fairtrade products and believe in relationship farming, that is, knowing exactly where our coffee beans come from and the working conditions of the people who are growing our beans. We also place an emphasis on finding products which we could substitute for non-Fairtrade products, orange juices, smoothies, apple juices, jams, chocolate etc. I am delighted that Spring into Summer has provided me to spread the Fairtrade message and it's the perfect platform to promote the Fairtrade cause."
Pictured left: Graeme Finnegan from Grounded Expresso Bars is pictured with Style Academy model with the winning recycled bag by Sharon McDaid (left) and former Miss Great Britain Gemma Garrett (right).
Right - the winning bag by Sharon McDaid on the catwalk at Magners Light Spring into Summer '10.
Belfast is A Fool In Love for Olly
Thursday, 18 March 2010 19:15
By Fashion Pharmacy
We cast our sartorial eye over his outfits every week on X factor, we admired his mod style and remarked on his tight trousers (oh my!) and today we finally got to meet the gorgeous Olly Murs when he officially opened the new Republic fashion store in Castlecourt.
Kitted out in Republic menswear brand ‘Fabric' Olly looked effortlessly sexy in a grey cardi and check shirt - neatly buttoned right up the neck of course!
Olly delivered the goods with his cheeky charm, funky dance moves and soulful voice. The store was packed with screaming fans who showed up to get a peek at X-factor's hottest star with the sexiest moves! The screams could be heard from outside, and inside it was mass hysteria to get as close to the gorgeous star as possible! As he pumped out his most famous song from his first audition, Superstition by Stevie Wonder, the place erupted!
The Fashion Pharmacy gals weren't shy in getting their groove on, while Sugah Showbiz Maureen played it cool with just a hint of a shoulder shimmy. After singing four songs including Twist and Shout and A Fool in Love, Olly took the time to sign autographs, chat with fans and get photos taken - every girls dream to get up close and personal with the yummy Olly Murs!
This guy really does have the whole package - (and we're not just talking about his tight trousers!) a cheeky chappy with a gorgeous smile, and talent to go along with it!
The Sugahfix gals kicked off the new fashion season in style with our uber-stylish ‘Ebony at The Ivory' spring style event on Sat 6th March.
The Spring Style Event rewarded the most stylish gals and guys with spot prizes including hairdressing vouchers for Ego hair at Esporta, beauty treats and men's grooming goodies from Rituals, Victoria Square, £50 voucher for Beauty Culture and for Liverpool fanatics - we had a Fernando Torres - limited edition signed poster from Icons.com sports memorabilia website.
Mo Blaque, dressed in a dapper fitted suit, Paul Smith shirt, fabulous red shoes and funky hat is undoubtadly a most stylish male. Mo's got style by the trunk load - we love his dapper gent look. Award-winning hairdresser and international catwalk session stylist Joe McGivern also picked up a prize for his cool bohemian look. His monochrome look was understated but our sartorial eye picked up on all those little flourishes of style: the Converse, the pocket details on the jacket, the stripey tee - we even loved the beanie hat although it was quite warm inside The Ivory - it was perfect attire for chilling out on the terrace.
For our most stylish gals we were looking for new season trends and we spotted a nautical jacket from across the room that ticked all the boxes - then we got closer - ooh the dress! It's a must-have! The stylish gal was none other than Pretty ‘n' Pink's Noleen Adair who was rewarded for her super chic, on-trend look with a £50 voucher to treat herself at Beauty Culture.
Glam gal Claudine Quinn caught our eye with the metallic effect fabric on her shimmering dress (very Dior SS10) she looked every inch the Hollywood starlet. One of our prizes was the limited edition signed poster of Liverpool star Fernando Torres and we were hoping one of our best dressed guys or gals would be a Liverpool fan so when we tentatively asked Claudine if she might be a Liverpool supporter she was very enthusiastic in her response!
We also spotted a gorg blush tone dress with black lace detail from across the room - two trends in one?! Muchos style kudos for Naomi Salmon. Paula Nesbitt also caught our eye with her sleek catsuit with cutout detail on the back and fabulous flutter sleeves - both gals received a fabulous gift set of pampering treats from Rituals and a hairdressing voucher for Ego hair at Esporta.
Top: Anita Ross and Claudia Quinn were delighted when Sugahfix Ed Katrina Doran presented Claudine with her prize of a signed limited editon poster of Fernando Torres from Icons.com.
Above left: Noleen Adair is presented with her prize by Lisa Millar of Beauty Culture.
Below left: Best Dressed males Mo Blaque, and right, Joe McGivern.
Click here to check out the style spotter gallery of all the fabulous fashion at Ebony at the Ivory Spring Style Event.
Social Networking Butterflies!
Friday, 19 February 2010 12:41
The Sugahfix gals love facebook and twitter and we're social networking butterflies so if you love to fb or tweet - you can join in all the Sugahtastic fun.
Click here to befriend Sasha Sugah -our 'virtual character'. She'll keep you up to date with all the fashionable goings ons at Sugahfix.com and invite you to lots of fab events.
Click on any of the live links to join up and please do encourage others to join and post up their favourite hidden gems and recommendations.
Sweet Success At Style Awards
Wednesday, 10 February 2010 21:30
By Katrina Doran.
The Magners Light Style Awards is the annual kickstart of the fashionista's social calender. Glam gals and guys from across the province packed Belfast's Café Vaudeville to air-kiss their pals and check out the style on show.
The awards ceremony was hosted by Mr Dapper himself - Cool FM's Pete Snodden and the glamorous Gemma Garrett. The promotional models were looking effortlessly elegant in bespoke designs by Una Rodden- the luxurious satin dresses with shoulder detail look simply stunning - they could have picked up an award themselves!
The Sugahfix gals were over the moon when Candy Plum was named most Stylish Fashion outlet - a fantastic achievement as the super stylish store has only been opened a matter of months - a testament to all the hard work and sheer personal style of mother and daughter team Lynn and Zara Beggs who picked up the trophy looking absolutely gorgeous.
We spotted Zara showcasing a must-have dress by Whitney Eve, one of the exclusive labels available at Candy Plum - stunning!
Menu By Kevin Thornton at the Fitzwilliam Hotel picked up the prize for Most Stylish Restaurant and if you haven't yet sampled the restaurants delectable delights - then book a table for a special Valentine's dinner - you won't be disappointed.
The winners were:
Most Stylish Female Julie Weatherup, personal stylist from Portadown
Most Stylish Male Martin John, Brand Manager and Swing Singer from Derry
Most Stylish Couple Jenny Curran & Kyle Anderson. Jenny is media broadcast student from Tandragee and Kyle, from Ards, is a Developer of New Programmes for "Shinawill", a TV production company.
Most Stylish Sports Star Adam Carroll, a racing driver from Portadown
Most Stylish Businessman Steve Simpson from Templepatrick, owner of the Rio Brazil BT9 shops in Belfast
Most Stylish Businesswoman Joint winners: Joanne Hayden and Sara O'Neill. Joanne is Marketing Manger for Linwoods in Armagh, who is from Dungannon, and Sara is a freelance stylist and illustrator from Coleraine.
Most Stylish Student Julie Doherty, a Belfast student of radiography
Most Stylish Bar Bar 10, Omagh
Most Stylish Club Coast, Newcastle
Most Stylish Fashion OutletCandy Plum , Hillsborough
Most Stylish Restaurant Menu by Kevin Thornton, Fitzwilliam Hotel , Belfast
Most Stylish Salon Pure@54, a Lurgan beauty salon
Online Auction Tees Off for Cancer Charity
Thursday, 04 February 2010 09:45
Golf legend Darren Clarke has launched a multi-million pound cancer fundraising campaign and charity event for the Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology at Queen's University. Clarke, whose wife Heather tragically died of breast cancer in 2006 aged just 39, said he was ‘delighted' to be supporting the Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology at Queen's.
Fundraising events will kick off at Helen's Bay golf club on Saturday (06 February 2010) with a black tie dinner and auction organised by club captain and Queen's University of Belfast Foundation board member Robert Sinclair, which aims to raise vital funds to support the work of the centre.
Campaign supporter Darren Clarke's fellow golfer Rory McIlroy has also pledged to support the campaign by matching Clarke's donation of hosting a four ball for the auction, and both prizes are expected to raise thousands of pounds each.
The auction is currently online so you don't need to be attending the black tie bash to bid on some jaw-dropping prizes and many bids have already been placed at www.cancercharityauction.com and Rory's four-ball at Lough ErneResort has already had a confirmed bid of £3,000.00 from a Belfast based businessman.
Several other ‘money can't buy' items have been secured for auction and bidders are expected to raise several thousand pounds on the night for hard-to-find sports and concert tickets - FA Cup final tickets in the Bobby Moore Club and Grand Tier tickets for the opera Aida in Covent Garden. Other sporting auction prizes include trips provided by Paddy Power to see Ireland vs Wales at Croke Park, the Gold Cup in Cheltenham in November, and to Leopardstown, Dublin for the Paddy Power day at the races. For tennis fans there is also much sought after Centre Court tickets for this year's Wimbledon Championships. An exclusive luxury trip to South Africa has been donated by Wayne Pollock Exclusive Luxury and a dinner for eight people cooked in the winning bidder's home by Michelin starred chef Michael Deane is expected to reach at least £3000 at auction. On top of all of these ‘experience' prizes, the event has also secured signed memorabilia including a signed gold disc of U2's ‘Boy' album, an autographed Michael Schumacher helmet, and a signed framed photograph of ‘Sea the Stars' - described as potentially the greatest race horse ever.
Ballot prizes on the night include 3 night stay in 5 star luxury at Ashford Castle, a pair of covetable designer sunglasses by Tom Ford 2010 collection from EK Eyewear to a meal for 2 in award winning restaurant Coco to name just a few.
Tickets for the event are sold out, however the online auction will continue to accept bids until Friday 05 February at midnight.
TV presenter and winner of Most Glamorous Female at IN! Magazine's Glamour Awards, Zoe Salmon, celebrated her 30th birthday at the start of January with family and old friends at Belfast's Café Vaudeville.
The recently-tinted brunette celebrated with a Laurent Perrier Champagne reception and delicious pink-frosted cupcakes from Lottie's Lovelies with sisters Naomi and Lara and her gal pals.
Also joining the celebrations were a host of Northern Irish personalities such as radio DJ Pete Snodden, model agency boss Alison Campbell, TV journalist Emma-Louise Johnston and former Big Brother contestant Orlaith McAllister plus other former Miss Northern Irelands including Gayle Williamson and Catherine Milligan.
Zoe looked super sexy in a slinky evening gown which was one of eight recreated by Agent Provocateur from their recent catwalk collection. Is this the same bubbly blonde Blue Peter presenter? Wowzers!
The stunning dress was only available at three stores in London - one of which was designer department store Harrods, and Zoe admitted it was the most expensive dress she had ever bought. Said Zoe "On this occasion I didn't want to borrow, I wanted something special that I could keep to remind me of such a happy time".
We think Zoe has a glint in her eye and a sophisticated sultry look with her new brunette locks - a much darker, richer shade than her initial colour swap look.
Check out the full birthday party coverage in Feb's issue of IN! magazine.
Pictured above: Kirsty Wilson, Orlaith McAllister, Zoe Salmon, Tori Saunders, Nicola Forde and Tasha Dawson.
Pictured left: Sisters Naomi, Zoe and Lara Salmon.
Trend Watch - The Soberista
Wednesday, 20 January 2010 16:13
By Andrea McVeigh.
At Sugahfix.com we've noticed a growing trend among movers and shakers for cutting down on alcohol and avoiding excess. And so we've named these sober fashionistas - the Soberista.
Whether you're cutting back, detoxing or going tee-total for good, you are not alone!
Everywhere we go, we're hearing stories of people who are either cutting down on things like those nightly glasses of wine, or cutting them out altogether.
Is 2010 the year when we realise we don't need that glass of merlot to relax and chill out or those multiple vodkas before we have the confidence to shake our booty on the dancefloor?
More slebs than you would imagine are at it too - from David Beckham to Russell Brand, Natalie Portman to Jada Pinkett Smith.
And have you noticed how facebook is now filled with posts from people enthusing about their hangover-free Sundays? It seems like people everywhere are having a revelation about how much and how often we drink, and it's been bubbling under surface for a while.
This isn't a moral or religious crusade - and it's not against drinking per se - this is more to do with looking after your body and mind, and preferring quality over quantity.
For the Teenies, it's hip to go Soberista - even uber-hot model-of-the-moment Daisy Lowe has been talking about how she embraces the clean life.
So how did we name it? Last summer, both Ed Katrina, and Trends Ed Andrea were at a fashion show, but both driving. Yet that didn't stop us having a great night's craic.
We loved the brilliant and witty conversation of our friends and we didn't feel the need to 'have a drink'.
Then we realised that it wasn't just us - lots of people are now appreciating the joys of having a hangover-free morning-after-the-night-before and so we named this new tribe - Soberistas.
The Soberista still loves indulging in a chilled glass of champagne or a knock-out Cosmo, but when they do the aim is to enjoy the moment, rather than end up with a killer hangover.
Instead, it's all about opting for de-stressing with a cup of green tea and a good read or an indulgent a bubble bath, rather than drowning our sorrows in another cheap bottle of red picked up in the supermarket.
It's about being confident and knowing you've got the same moves that you had in your bedroom dancing to Beyonce as you do when you hit the dancefloor in a club, and that you and your friends will have just as much craic and laughs with an afternoon of shopping topped off with mugs of luscious hot chocolate with marshmallows as you would if it was glasses of wine.
'Moderate' is one of our now watchwords - as important to us as 'statement necklace', 'peep toe boots' and 'SATC2' will be during 2010.
Soberistas are all about getting high on life.
Cheers to that!
Ronaldo in his Pants!
Friday, 15 January 2010 08:57
By Katrina Doran.
Ex-Manchester United player Cristiano Ronaldo has been unveiled as the new 'body' of Emporio Armani Underwear and Armani Jeans, taking the place of David Beckham.
The Real Madrid forward is certainly not shy of striking a few poses and we're wondering...do you likey?
Giorgio Armani said, "Cristiano is a great looking man with the perfect physique of an athlete. For me, he is the essence of youth - spontaneous, exciting, a real maverick. It is for his energy that I have chosen Cristiano to become the new face of Armani Jeans and Emporio Armani Underwear - for his youthful, exciting and yes, sexy, attitude."
Personally Ronaldo turns the life outa me but have to give him (or maybe the photoshop artist) credit for his ridiculously ribbed bod but still...he does nothing for me whatsoever. Bring back Beckham!
More images are available starting from today exclusively to Emporio Armani fans on their official Facebook page ARMANI.
Sugahfix.com Loves Caroline!
Wednesday, 23 December 2009 11:37
When you're shopping in Victoria Square this Christmas check out the ‘Sugahfix.com Loves Victoria Square' display (opp Hollister lower ground floor) featuring Belfast model Caroline Davis in four perfect party outfits from Victoria Square retailers including, Cruise, House of Fraser and Reiss.
Sugahfix.com editor Katrina Doran says "Caroline may be on the Kate Moss side for a model being 5 ft 8 but the Sugahfix gals know she's a super star we're loving this huge display which has her as she should be - iconic status and super sized!"
The full photoshoot, which can be viewed by clicking here - features the best of Belfast fashion from H&M and Top Shop to Kurt Geiger and Cruise at Victoria Square, plus favourite Ormeau Road boutiques La Femme and Evelin Brandt as well as local designers Una Rodden, Lizzie Agnew and Grainne Maher.
Pictured Left: Photography by Jessica Weber, Model - Caroline Davis, Dress by Reiss at Victoria Square, Make-up by Paula Fraser, air by Lee Stinton at Paul Stafford Hairdressing.
Salmon Spawns a New Look
Friday, 20 November 2009 13:45
By Katrina Doran.
The ‘IN' crowd were out in force last night as Northern Ireland's celebrity and social monthly IN! Magazine hosted its inaugural "Glamour Awards" in association with Lunn's.
The star-studded awards took place at the Merchant Hotel and winners included Zoe Salmon who picked up the award for Most Glamorous Female while Golf Pro Rory McIlroy was crowned Most Glamorous Male. Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford were awarded Most Glamorous Couple and Specsavers 241 Derby at Down Royal, Most Glamorous Event.
Zoe Salmon debuted her new brunette locks and wore a stunning Jenny Packham dress from Blush. We have to say - we no likey the brunette look on Zoe - she should stick to her signature blonde.
As well as the main awards our Sugah Pal Julia Snodden (wifette of Cool FM's Pete Snodden) walked away with the title of Most Glamorous on the Night.
Editor Lisa Harrison explained: "These awards celebrated everything that is glamorous about Northern Ireland. Since we started the magazine last year we have profiled so many fabulous people and chic events, and feedback from our readers shows that people are really eager to read about them."
Those not lucky enough to be nominated for an award were still able to celebrate with the IN crowd as the party continued with the magazine's first birthday bash in Ollie's nightclub.
Check out Sugahfix next week for the full red carpet gallery.
Photography by Jessica Weber.
A Nibble for Nesbitt!
Monday, 09 November 2009 15:20
By Maureen Coleman.
His cheeky quips might have offended Kate Moss but James Nesbitt's saucy sense of humour has landed him a new role in a star-studded Christmas advertising campaign.
The Coleraine actor is among a host of well-known faces who will add some seasonal sparkle to Marks and Spencer's now-famous television ads.
Joining Nesbitt will be Stephen Fry, Philip Glenister, John Sergeant and two of the most celebrated partnerships on television, Jennifer Saunders and Joanne Lumley and Wallace and Gromit.
M&S regulars Twiggy, Myleene Klass and Noemie Lenoir will join the cast.
With a theme of "Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without....." the ad asks each celebrity in turn what is the key ingredient for an ideal Christmas.
Twinkly-eyed Nesbitt replies "a little nibble under the mistletoe."
The star of Cold Feet and Occupation also refers back to his strong family ties with a second line "a jumper from your granny."
Stephen Fry tells viewers Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without "a little mince. Well it's only once a year", while Philip Glenister, in his alter-ego as DCI Gene Hunt, says "that girl prancing around in her underwear." referring to the lovely M&S model Noemie Lenoir!
HOTPOINT!
Wednesday, 04 November 2009 23:38
My oh my! The Sugahfix gals always enjoy the hot male models at Belfast Fashion Week and this years boyish babes were particularly hot!
In the first show on Friday, Richie, one of the male models in the opening round of the Carter show unzipped his D&G knitted top to reveal just a hint of the hot bod underneath but we didn't quite get a good look!
So...we used our powers of persuasion to ensure attendees at the second show got plenty of flash for their cash! We suggested to Carter owner Dave Pennick that the audience would love it if we got a better ‘flash' so we could have a proper swoon. He must have tipped the boys off that us lusty ladies were staying for the second show and they certainly didn't dissapoint.
Now we were seated in the general direction of where Richie was pointing (below) and we WISH he was actually pointing at us - but sure a gal can dream!
Tim And The City
Tuesday, 03 November 2009 22:52
By Patricia Devlin.
Anyone been watching MTV's ‘The City' lately? If you haven't well it's about time you had! The popular reality show has just had a little bit of injected Irish charm recently in the form of Northern Ireland fashion intern Tim Ferris.
The 21 year-old journalism graduate is becoming a regular on the New York based reality series after gaining an internship at one of the world's biggest PR firms, People's Revolution in May. Over the last six months Tim, who is originally from Limavady, shot from making coffee and photocopying, to working with some of the biggest and most exclusive fashion brands on the planet.
"The last six months have just been amazing and I have made some really good contacts in New York." Tim tells Sugahfix.
"I got approached about the MTV show by People's Revolution founder Kelly Cutrone. She called me into her office and asked me did I want to appear on TV. The next I know I'm signing a contract with MTV in a boardroom."
Tim laughs: "I never realised how popular the series was until I landed back here. It hasn't really hit home yet that I'm actually on MTV, it definitely was an added bonus of the job."
In the last six months, the aspiring media and PR professional has not only managed to bag a couple of slots on one of America's most popular reality series, but also regularly socialising with the stars.
"I've met a lot of leading people in the fashion industry and a lot of big names; Debbie Harry from Blondie, Russell Brand, Kate Hudson and I attended Liv Tyler's birthday party as well. But you can't afford to get fazed or star struck, especially with such a big company. It's part of your job and you get on with it."
The young fashion fanatic landed home early last week to surprise his mum, but with seriously itchy feet hopes to be on the move with his career again very soon.
"I have a few offers of work in London that I'm looking into, as well as a couple of local ventures; so I'll see how these go over the coming months."
Tim is currently appearing on various episodes of MTV's 'The City' on Sky Channel 350 every Sunday night which is repeated daily throughout the week.
Photo Caption: Tim with fashion designers and MTV reality stars Whitney Port and Roxy Olin.
Search Light
Thursday, 15 October 2009 12:42
The search is on for nominations for the most stylish people and places for this year's Magners Light Style Awards, in association with Ulster Tatler.
It's simple to enter, just fill out a short nomination form and submit it with at least one photo - ideally three - depicting the respective nominee's style with a paragraph on why you think they should win by the extended deadline of Friday 23rd October.
To make it even easier to nominate, there's a new online option via www.magnerslight.com , as well as the traditional printed form available in the current issue of the Ulster Tatler that can be posted.
Please note each nomination must be accompanied by a minimum of one good photo, as this is what the judging panel will need to shortlist each categories three finalists against. So, the more photos the better! The online nomination form allows you to attach up to three files (up to 2 MB each).
"As an added incentive, for simply submitting a completed nomination
form, you put yourself in with the chance of winning a Magners Light
VIP Night Out for you and 3 friends to join us for one of the most
exciting stylish events of the year, at the competition's glitzy and
ultra-stylish grand final on Thursday 4th February 2010, in Café
Vaudeville, Belfast," says James Simpson, Magners Marketing Manager of
C&C NI.
This year's judges include, Ulster Tatlers super stylish Woman's Editor, Lara Salmon; Tracey Hall, Director of Style Academy Model Agency Boss and co-organser of Magners Light Fall for Fashion and Spring into Summer fashion shows; Cool FM's Pete Snodden; Hairdresser Michael Quinn and Award-Winning Photographer Ciaran O'Neill."
This year's categories are:
➢ Most Stylish Female
➢ Most Stylish Male
➢ Most Stylish Couple
➢ Most Stylish Student - NEW
➢ Most Stylish Bar
➢ Most Stylish Club - NEW
➢ Most Stylish Restaurant
➢ Most Stylish Salon (i.e. hair, beauty or spa)
Most Stylish Fashion Outlet
➢ Most Stylish Sports Star
➢ Most Stylish Businessman
➢ Most Stylish Businesswoman
As well as the much sought after ‘most stylish' title, category winners will each be presented with a suitably stylish Magners Light Style Awards memento, presented at one of the glitziest parties of the year and, of course, the Sugahfix Style Spotters will be in attendence to snap all the most stylish gals. Click here to view 2009's Style Spotter gallery.
Should you have any queries about submitting nominations please call Karen on tel. 028 9042 3314.
Girls World
Thursday, 01 October 2009 13:19
By Patricia Devlin.
The Sugahfix gals always knew us Norn Iron women were a beautiful bunch, but to have two of our very own in the Miss World contest, well that just confirmed it!
The gorgeous Laura Patterson from Derry scooped the Miss Ireland crown at a lavish ceremony at Dublin's Royal Marine Hotel at the weekend. The 19-year-old law and accountancy student will be joining our own Miss Northern Ireland Cherie Gardiner to compete in the world's most glamorous beauty pageant in Johannesburg on December 12th.
The beauty, who woke up to a room full of make up artists, stylists and photographers on Sunday morning, says she hasn't had time to let her new title sink in.
"I am so stunned by all this," says Laura "My normal Sunday is so different, I sing in the choir and give Sunday school lessons, but last night a whole new world has literally opened up for me, and now here I am sitting with a crown on my head!"
"I have done some modelling in Northern Ireland and the Republic, but this is a whole new level. It's such a great opportunity not only for me, but to do some good work for charities. Which is close to my own heart as I have been involved in a cross community pageant at home."
The judges were no doubt swayed by Laura's shining personality and delectable Derry charm. The beauty queen will now be preparing to spend a month in the South African city taking part in a long list of events including the Miss World final, viewed by two billion worldwide. At least we have tow reasons to watch this year!
Photo by Joe Keogh.
Ricky Does the Rumba!
Friday, 25 September 2009 11:03
By Maureen Coleman.
Former Northern Irish jockey Richard Dunwoody is not the only Strictly Come Dancing contender we'll be cheering for this series.
The Sugahfix gals were very excited to hear that Hollyoaks hunk Ricky Whittle has also strong local connections.
For the gorgeous guy, who plays cop Calvin Valentine in the Channel 4 teen soap, used to live in Co Antrim for seven and a half years.
He attended Antrim Grammar - and also had his first snog with a local lass.
Ricky and Richard will both make their competitive debuts this weekend, although they performed a group dance last weekend, with sexy Ricky impressing the judges and public alike.
And the actor, who is paired with dancer Natalie Lowe, certainly raised our temperatures when he told us: "The rumba is a very sexy dance with two lovers at the centre of its story and I'm really looking forward to performing it. I've heard it being described as a vertical enactment of a horizontal desire, which just about sums it up."
Unfortunately for us, raunchy Ricky is taken. He's going out with Hollyoaks beauty Carley Stenson, who plays Steph Deane.
He said: "Carley is my litle secret weapon. I practise my dancing on her every night. Teaching her teaches me how to lead."
Ricky recently emerged as the new bookies' favourite to win Strictly Come Dancing following a flurry of bets.
Myleene Camps It Up
Thursday, 24 September 2009 13:50
By Katrina Doran.
Myleene Klass arrived at the M&S Sprucefield store to launch the new Indigo range.
Dressed in pieces from the new collection the M&S model caused all sorts of drama and commotion by driving a vintage VW camper van round to the store and onto the pavement with mad waves and beeping the horn so people would move out of the way.
The van didn't have power steering so it was a bit tricky to manoeuvre but she managed to stop it in time for all the cameras!
Queen of Pop gives White Sapphire Ball extra sparkle
Saturday, 19 September 2009 19:00
Madonna has personally donated two signed first-edition copies of her bestselling children's books to go under the hammer at the much-anticipated White Sapphire Ball, which takes place on Saturday 3 October at the Europa Hotel.
The self-penned titles by the global superstar: The English Roses and Mr. Peabody's Apples topped the world's bestseller lists upon release and are just one of the exclusive lots up for grabs during the ‘Money Can't Buy' Grand Auction at the must-attend event of the year.
This is the first time that Madonna has personally donated to a Northern Irish charity and
follows two major celebrity 'Money Can't Buy' VIP packages which will
also go under the hammer at the glamorous bash in October: Northern
Irish golf dynamo, Rory McIlroy, has donated a round of golf with one
lucky bidder as part of a fantastic luxury golf package, which includes
a weekend break in the majestic 5 star Lough Erne Golf resort and the
use of an Audi R8 for the weekend.
‘Hollyoaks' are also on board and
are offering one lucky bidder a Walk On Part in their smash hit TV show.
This celebrity package also includes: An exclusive 'Behind the Scenes'
tour of the Hollyoaks set and lunch at Lime Pictures Childwall Studios
with the cast for the lucky bidder and a guest of their choice and to
top it off, local Hollyoaks star Gerard McCarthy will take the bidder
and their guest out for dinner at one of Liverpool's top show-biz
restaurants before they take to the opulence of Liverpool's Mal Maison
hotel for an overnight stay.
Guests already scheduled to attend The White sapphire Ball include NI industry's high fliers, entrepreneurs, business leaders, artists, celebrities and supporters of the Children's Hospice - to find out more about table packages and attending on the night log on to www.thewhitesapphireball.com
Celebrating Six Packs
Wednesday, 09 September 2009 14:24
By Maureen Colelman.
Bond heart-throb Daniel Craig has outmuscled the competition in a poll of top torsos.
The 007 actor with perfect pectorals flexed his way to first place in the survey to find out which male celebrity has the buffest bod.
The star of Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace caused quite a stir when he emerged from the sea in a pair of blue shorts, to show off a sexy six-pack in his Bond debut in 2006.
Muscling his way into second place in the poll is Hollywood's latest golden boy - and Jennifer Aniston's reported squeeze - Gerard Butler. The actor's toned torso was first noticed in the epic movie 300, in which he starred as King of the Spartans.
He may have an ever-increasing family, but thankfully, his waist-line remains the same. Brad Pitt's torso from the film Troy sees him in third place, with 14%, behind Craig's impressive 34% and Butler's 21%.
Unlikely heart-throb Sacha Baron Cohen makes a surprising entry at number four (7%), for his Borat bod, while Thunderball's Sean Connery is fifth.
The big-screen body poll sees Leonardo Di Caprio in sixth place for his buffness in the Beach, while Along Came Polly's Hank Azaria (pictured left) comes in at number seven.
Music legend Elvis Presley makes it into the top 10, with his rippling muscles in Blue Hawaii while controversial comic Russell Brand is another eyebrow-raising entry at number nine (Forgetting Sarah Marshall). Rounding up the Top 10 torsos list is Jan Michael Vincent of Big Wednesday fame.
The poll was carried out by Lovefilm, the UK's largest online DVD and games rental service and entertainment website. Editor of Lovefilm. com, Helen Cowley, said: "Although Casino Royale reignited the Bond brand and launched Daniel Craig's career, it was that scene alone, Craig in those skimpy swimming trunks, that catapulted him to stardom and the top of the poll - leaving buff Butler and beefy Brad way behind."
Sasha - Fierce!
Thursday, 06 August 2009 22:09
By Katrina Doran.
Our 'Get Ready To Go!' Sasha pose competition has had some fantastic entries so far with our two weekly winners above.
Our first weekly winner was Anita McCartan for her snap taken before hitting the town with that tell-tale almost empty glass of rose in the background - fabulous!
And on week two there was simply no competition for Louise McElvana whose shot taken at the U2 concert in Croke Park not only got extra bonus points for being an 'international entry' but the composition of the photo is pro perfection - we love it (We'll ignore the fact Louise doesn't actually have a compact in ths shot with clever use of the imaginary mirror!)
Anita and Louise will receive a Boots No.7 Liplicious Lipgloss and mirrored compact as well as now being in the running for the final prize of flights to Tenerife with Aer Lingus and that goodie bag bursting with beauty treats from Boots.
Special note must be made of Denise Drummond Scott (pictured left) who got her pic snapped when she was on the air on Feile FM - fantastic! Fashionista Jacquie Martin for having easily the most gorgeous compact (not to mention covetable red lippy.
Hotly tipped artist Domnall Starkey - who was the best of the boys and Sarah McCrossan who even got random males involved during a girls night out at Rain.
So gals when you're hitting the town this weekend - snap your pals and get your pals to snap you doing the Sasha pose (just like Sasha Sugah - Left) - applying lippy while looking in a compact mirror - upload the pix to facebook and tag yourself and Sasha Sugah in the shot and then get as many of your friends to 'like' the shot to make sure you get into the top ten.
Any gals at the Ultimate Girlie Night Out at Café Vaudeville on Friday 7th at The Mint, Cookstown on Saturday 8th - we expect fabulous photos from all of you showing off your Benefit make-over and Nails Inc mini manicures.
To view all the entries or become Sasha's facebook friend - click here.
GOod Times Ahead as Justin Lee Collins Host The Gongs
Thursday, 30 July 2009 10:42
By Maureen Coleman.
Justin Lee Collins will be bringing big hair and big laughs to the Europa Hotel this year when he hosts the 2009 7Up GO Belfast Awards.
Justin shot to fame on 'The Friday Night Project' and has also recently presented a series of his own 'Bring Back...' shows, which saw him reunite old favourites from cult TV shows the A-Team, Fame and Grange Hill.
Taking a short break between filming his new show, Justin said: "I'm really excited to be coming to Belfast to host the 2009 Go Belfast Awards so get ready for the night of your lives as I take to the stage to present the city's red carpet event of the year. Expect some big hair and even bigger laughs!"
Following on from the success of last year's star-studded event, which saw a host of stars take to the red carpet including James Nesbitt, Jayne Wisener, Colin Morgan and Niamh Perry, the organisers are promising an even bigger bash this November.
Widely known as The GONGS, the GO Belfast Awards showcase and celebrate the very best of Belfast's retail, tourism, hospitality and entertainment sectors and ultimately those who have contributed successfully to the regeneration of Belfast.
Denise Catney Brands Manager for Britvic NI, said:"This is the third year that Ireland's number one lemon and lime drink has been title sponsor of the Go Belfast Awards which have become the highlight of Northern Ireland's social calendar. The awards are excellent in the way they celebrate the city of Belfast and showcase and reward those businesses that are helping to establish Belfast as one of the leading destinations in Europe for retail, hospitality and entertainment."
GO Belfast publisher Bill Penton added: "Justin is one of the hottest names in comedy and we are really looking forward to welcoming him to Belfast for this year's awards. Now in their third year the awards are going from strength to strength and with over 20,000 votes cast last year, we are looking forward to even more this year."
As well as voting for their favourite media and sports personality, the public can also vote for their favourite places, people and events in Belfast across 12 categories including their favourite pub, club, restaurant, hotel, festival/event, fashion store, live music venue, café, newcomer and tourist attraction.
Voting forms are printed in the current Go Belfast magazine or visit www.gobelfastawards.com to cast their vote.
The winners will be announced at a star-studded evening on Friday, November 13 at Belfast's Europa Hotel.
It's What You're Looking For!
Tuesday, 21 July 2009 17:35
Sugahfix.com - Northern Ireland's on-line guide to life and style for local women - has launched a new VIP directory.
The new directory will provide a long-term platform for potential advertisers to promote their businesses, special offers and events and will give readers of the fashion and fun-filled website the chance to find out where best to shop, dine out, party and pamper in Northern Ireland.
The directory was launched on Friday, June 26 at a chic event at hip new eatery CoCo. Guests sipped on chilled West Coast Cooler Rosé while nibbling on delicious treats from CoCo's kitchen.
Sugahfix.com editor Katrina Doran and Sales Executive Glenda Moore (pictured left) introduced the new online directory to guests.
Founder and editor Katrina Doran said: "The Directory is a direct response to feedback from advertisers, sponsors and potential advertisers over our first year of business.
"Business owners had commented that they wanted longevity on the site, they wanted their ‘ad' to be in the central panel and have opportunities to run offers, invite readers to events and make the whole experience much more interactive with advertiser and readers.
"Simultaneously readers have been asking for information on the hot places to go, where to shop, what offers and discounts are available and events they could attend - so we've taken all that feedback and created the Sugahfix VIP Directory."
The Sugahfix VIP Directory is broken down into sections including Eat (restaurants and cafes), Drink (bars), Dance (clubs), Pamper (beauty salons, spas, makeup artists, nail bars), Preen (hair salons, grooming), Shop (retail stores from boutiques to shopping centres) and Wed (bridal boutiques, products and services targeting brides).
"It is highly visual and will allow readers to search the directory by name, location or keyword," said Katrina.
"The editorial style of the listing plus user friendly features like an interactive map mean readers will be able to make more informed decision on where they eat, drink, dance and shop so we hope it will be an invaluable resource.
"We hope it will become a one-stop-shop for the most up-to-date information that women in Northern Ireland need and it's all online so it's just the click of a mouse away."
If you are a business owner contact Glenda on
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
to find out how you can get involved.
Any Portman in a Storm
Friday, 17 July 2009 17:17
Irish Musician Cathy Maguire has revealed that she was flattered and surprised to be mistaken for Hollywood A-Lister Natalie Portman at the Oxegen Festival last week!
During the deluge on Saturday reporters must have been blinded with the rain as they put two and two together and mixed up brunette beauties.
A UK tabloid journalist reported that Natalie Portman was treated to an impromptu Michael Jackson dance tribute by Pete Doherty stage side at the Nick Cave performance. It was actually Dundalk's Cathy Maguire who alongside Shane McGowan witnessed the BabyShambles singer's moonwalk while the Star Wars actress was enjoying The Kings of Leon performance on another stage!
Says Cathy Maguire: "It saddens me the amount of inaccurate and negative stories that are fabricated about Pete - he really is a lovely guy and deserves much more focus on his talent as a musician."
Cathy Maguire and friend Pete Doherty share a passion for the music of Hank Williams. Maguire is no stranger to A-listers in the music world - one of her regular writing collaborators is Roger Cook of Cook and Greenway and while in Tennesse she often hung out with troubled genius Johnny Cash.
Natalie Portman and fellow cast members and crew were also at the festival taking time out from the filming of new blockbuster movie ‘Your Highness.'
Cathy Maguire has recently released a new album called ‘Portrait' and can be seen onstage next week August 1st and 2nd at UTV CountryFest 09 at Belfast Kings Hall. Cathy Maguire will also be supporting Martina McBride at dates around Ireland this Summer. For more information on Cathy Maguire see www.cathymaguire.ie
Crack The Shutters
Tuesday, 07 July 2009 12:48
By Maureen Coleman.
Fans of Snow Patrol are in for a visual treat over the month of July - with the launch of a fascinating new photographic exhibition charting the band's success from early days on the pub circuit to world domination.
An amazing collection of photographs showing the band onstage during their live performances as well as some more candid shots of them relaxing backstage will form the basis of Crack The Shutters at the Waterfront Hall.
And the man behind the lens is Bradley Quinn, the Bangor-born brother of Snow Patrol's drummer Jonny.
Bradley, who began his career with local commercial photographer Ashley Morrison, has been lucky over the years to be given exclusive access to the band both on-stage and off.
"Being on the stage means I can take pictures from different vantage points," he says.
"And the boys all feel comfortable enough around me now to let me snap away when they are relaxing backstage, on their computers or just messing around in the studio."
Bradley has captured some intimate moments when they band members are sharing a laugh on stage and when frontman Gary Lightbody leaps into the crowd. And for anyone who's either into Snow Patrol, or photography, this exhibition is a must.
Crack The Shutters opens tomorrow night (Wed July 8th 7-9pm) at the Waterfront and runs until the end of July. Local band Cashier No 9, whom Bradley is currently photographing, will play at the event.
Andy Cosgrove liked it and he put a ring on it so the gorgeous Gemma Garrett is no longer one of the single ladies. 
Sugahfix.com founder and editor Katrina Doran will be filling in for Voodoo boss Lucy Evangelista at Voodoo IMS class this Sunday 8th August.
Sugahfix photog Jessica Weber swaps her sartorial eye for photo journalism with her evocative shots of Saturday's Gay Pride parade in Belfast City Centre. Even the weather joined in and supported the parade adding a sparkle of sunshine after the morning's downpour - a fitting celebration for our fabulous rainbow people.
By Katrina Doran.
Grounded Espresso had something to celebrate after winning the title of ‘Best Cafe in Belfast' at the Belfast City Council Business Awards.
Dundrum funny man, Patrick Kielty was on top form at the recent KRI Awards in Dublin - the first ever event rewarding excellence in kitchen design, innovation and customer service in Ireland.
By Katrina Doran.
By Katrina Doran.
Momiji have teamed up with UK charity; Knickers 4 Africa, to help people living in poverty. Momiji hope to bring the world together using social networking site, Twitter, to donate as many pairs of pants as they can as well as giving 10 lucky followers a little treat for themselves. 
Fabulous! For CLIC Sargent sold out weeks before the event leaving many fashionistas missing out on what was a truly Fabulous! evening.
Wish Bridal's display of "Wow" inducing dresses (pictured left) even tempted a few "Fiancées" to reconsider their current chosen dress.
By Katrina Doran.
The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast has been included in the new Condé Nast Traveller ‘Hot List' of 66 hotels worldwide. It is one of just six UK hotels to be included on the list and is the only Irish hotel to receive this accolade.
By Katrina Doran.
As part of Fair Trade Fortnight, a campaign developed by the Fair Trade Foundation helping people in developing nations, a Northern Irish businessman has taken the whole concept and brought it to a fashionable new level.
As a member of the Fairtrade Steering Committee in Newry, I am totally dedicated to promoting the movement to Newry Businesses and schools and now am focusing my efforts in Belfast.. All the University of Ulster students loved designing the bags and have even asked for more coffee sacks to transform, as friends and family want to buy them!"
By Fashion Pharmacy
The Sugahfix gals kicked off the new fashion season in style with our uber-stylish ‘Ebony at The Ivory' spring style event on Sat 6th March.
The Sugahfix gals love facebook and twitter and we're social networking butterflies so if you love to fb or tweet - you can join in all the Sugahtastic fun.
The awards ceremony was hosted by Mr Dapper himself - Cool FM's Pete Snodden and the glamorous Gemma Garrett. The promotional models were looking effortlessly elegant in bespoke designs by 
Golf legend Darren Clarke has launched a multi-million pound cancer fundraising campaign and charity event for the Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology at Queen's University. Clarke, whose wife Heather tragically died of breast cancer in 2006 aged just 39, said he was ‘delighted' to be supporting the Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology at Queen's.
TV presenter and winner of Most Glamorous Female at IN! Magazine's Glamour Awards, Zoe Salmon, celebrated her 30th birthday at the start of January with family and old friends at Belfast's Café Vaudeville.
By Katrina Doran.
By Maureen Coleman.
By Patricia Devlin.
The search is on for nominations for the most stylish people and places for this year's Magners Light Style Awards, in association with Ulster Tatler. 
By Patricia Devlin.
By Maureen Coleman.
By Katrina Doran.
Madonna has personally donated two signed first-edition copies of her bestselling children's books to go under the hammer at the much-anticipated White Sapphire Ball, which takes place on Saturday 3 October at the Europa Hotel.
By Maureen Colelman.
The big-screen body poll sees Leonardo Di Caprio in sixth place for his buffness in the Beach, while Along Came Polly's Hank Azaria (pictured left) comes in at number seven.
By Katrina Doran.
Hotly tipped artist Domnall Starkey - who was the best of the boys and Sarah McCrossan who even got random males involved during a girls night out at Rain.
By Maureen Coleman.
Sugahfix.com - Northern Ireland's on-line guide to life and style for local women - has launched a new VIP directory.
Irish Musician Cathy Maguire has revealed that she was flattered and surprised to be mistaken for Hollywood A-Lister Natalie Portman at the Oxegen Festival last week!
By Maureen Coleman.