Category: Blog

By Rebecca Parker

1. Birch

Birch is one of absolute favourite places to go for brunch in Newcastle. It is vegetarian/vegan and they change up their menu seasonally. Their granola bowls are one of the best I’ve had and their almond croissants – absolutely divine! I am a frequent visitor on a Sunday morning for my coffee and croissant fix. Another bonus is they are dog friendly so you can head to Newcastle for a walk and enjoy a spot of brunch after whilst watching the world go by. They also have a shop in Castlewellan if you happen to passing through.

Instagram: birch_coffee_

2. Awaken

After having attended uni in the North Coast for four years, I think it Is safe to say me and my friends tried most food places and this is most definitely my top rated. It’s not a trip to Portstewart without calling into Awaken for me. Their banana bread is always a top choice any time we go but honestly everything on their menu is DELICIOUS! They have also recently expanded so if you find yourself in the North Coast, make sure you pay Awaken a visit.

Instagram: @awakennorthcoast

3. Café Marmalade

My aunt has been recommending this place for years and I only visited Café Marmalade very recently for the first time and it did not disappoint. They have such a great selection on their menu – both breakfast/brunch and lunch. The staff are also super friendly and could not be more accommodating. Situated in Banbridge town centre, it is the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat and a coffee.

Instagram: cafemarmalade1

4. Finegan & Son

Finegan & Son can be found in Newry and it offers a truly unique breakfast experience that you do not want to miss out on. You can build your own breakfast plate from a selected menu made up of seasonal and local produce. They also offer a selection of tasty baked goods which make your mouth water just looking at them. I highly recommend paying a visit here on your next brunch date.

Instagram: @fineganandson

5. Karibu Coffee

Karibu means ‘welcome’ in Swahili and you will most definitely feel welcomed in this little spot. Having only opened its doors In December it is has been a popular destination. Situated in Royal Hillsborough, you couldn’t have nicer surroundings. They offer a selection of brunch options and their vegan cookies are AMAZING! Definitely add this place to your list and bring your dog along to enjoy some brunch too!

Instagram: @karibucoffeehillsborough

6. Established

This place is always queued out the door and rightfully so because it is so so good! They also do the most delicious speciality pies which taste equally as good as they look. Make sure to follow their socials to see what’s on offer each week. They also have seasonal drinks on offer and strawberry iced matcha is calling out my name. Next time you’re in Belfast City Centre make sure to head round and treat yourself.

Instagram: @establishedcoffee

7. Lost & Found

Lost & Found now have two locations for you to visit – Portstewart and Coleraine. Their avocado toast has always been my go-to for brunch but the pancakes look exceptionally good too. The chilled atmosphere and stunning views from their Portstewart location looking out over the strand make this the perfect place for a relaxed brunch with family and friends.

Instagram: @wearelostfound

8. Middletown Coffee Co.

This modern coffee shop can be found in the town of Ballymena. Their breakfast menu all sounds unreal leaving it very hard to choose. If you’re a cinnamon swirl lover like me, you will want to try theirs’s out- HEAVEN! If I haven’t tempted you enough, check out their very aesthetically pleasing Instagram and you will be running to it.

Instagram: @mtowncoffee

9. Percival Coffee

With a menu to die for why would you not visit Percival Coffee in Lisburn. From granola, pancakes, waffles and more. -there is something to suit everyone’s taste buds. As iced latte weather quickly comes to an end make sure you head down to Percival’s for your last caffeine fix of the summer and enjoy a little treat with it.

Instagram: @percyscoffee

10. 4c Coffee House & Kitchen

Me and my fiancé recently stopped in here for brunch on our way through Armagh and we were very impressed. They have an excellent outdoor seating area as well as indoors with a great menu with plenty to choose from. Although this a brunch recommendation features their evening supper club menu also sounds exceptionally good. Check out their socials to find out more.

Instagram: @4ccoffeehouse

By Rebecca Parker

1. Love Untold – Ruth Jones

As a huge fan of Gavin & Stacey, I was so excited when Ruth Jones (creator & writer) announced she was releasing her first novel back in 2018. Now onto her third book I can confidently say I am a huge fan of her writing. Her latest novel, ‘Love Untold’ takes you through the story and relationship of four generations of women in the one family. Although there is heart-break and sadness, Jones’ warmth and compassion seeps through making you unable to set the book down.

2. The Tattooist of Auschwitz – Heather Morris

This book had me in streams of tears. It is a heart wrenching read in terms of its subject matter but so uplifting in its story of love and friendship through the most difficult of times. The human love story of Lale and Gita is unforgettable and their story has stayed with me long after reading it. I encourage anyone to read Heather Morris’ novels as they are truly outstanding.

3. Happy Place – Emily Henry

Perhaps one of the most read novels this summer is Happy Place by Emily Henry. It is the ultimate holiday read for you to enjoy whilst lying by the pool soaking up some rays. It’s witty, heartfelt and sunny. This novel could be your ‘happy place’ this year! Make sure to check out more of Emily’s books to keep you reading until the end of the summer months.

4. Stephen King – The Institute

I only started reading Stephen King a few years ago and I was missing out beforehand. He truly is one of the best authors of our time not only in his storytelling but plot, characters, setting – just everything is so well thought out. This novel integrates together science-fiction, horror and thriller into one. I was in suspense the entire novel not knowing what was coming next. If you read only one book this year please make it this one.

5. Any novel by Coleen Hoover

If you haven’t heard of Colleen Hoover then you definitely have been living under a rock. The bestselling author has gained immense popularity in the past year with devouring her novels. I read three of her books in two days – if that doesn’t tell you how much of a an avid reader and fan I am, I don’t know what would.

By Rebecca Parker

There is nothing I love more than putting my earphones in, choosing a podcast to listen to and heading out for a walk. I had been an avid music listener on walks/runs for many years until I listened to my first podcast – I was hooked! I still remember the very first podcast I listened to, Ferne Cotton’s, Happy Place. It felt like I was on a walk with a friend just having a chat about life. There were days I maybe walked for two hours just to finish an episode and move on to the next. I decided to put together a list of some of my favourite podcasts in the hope someone else gets the same enjoyment from them as me.

1. The Sinead Says Podcast

Many of you might know Sinead from Instagram. She is originally from Ireland but currently living in Australia. Her podcast gives an insight into her life in the land of Aus as well as exploring topics such as love, relationships, how our brains function and being kinder to ourselves. This is such a good listen if you’re maybe struggling a little at the moment and need some guidance with plenty of laughs along the way.

2. The Diary of a CEO

The Diary of a CEO with Stephen Bartlett is a no.1 business related podcast. Stephen himself has achieved immense success and is currently one of the dragons on BBC show, Dragons Den. Each week he has a guest come along and they discuss business, personal lives and how they have got to where they are today. I have picked up so many great tips from this podcast and I urge everyone to give it a listen whether you’re interested or not as he explores some very valuable life lessons.

3. Sh**ged, Married, Annoyed

This is one of my all-time favourite podcasts. Chris and Rosie Ramsay are the perfect comedic double act and are sure to have you in fits of laughter every time you listen. The podcast consists of them just chatting about married life in general, a ‘What’s your beef section, stories sent in by listeners and more. They now also have their very own show – ‘The Chris and Rosie Ramsay Show’ on BBC1 if you’re in need of some light-hearted comedy TV.

4. Be a Better You

This podcast comes from the fabulous Caoileann Conway as she helps listeners become the best version of themselves. It explores everything from food choices, fuelling for performance, feeding our minds, human behaviour, personal and spiritual development, relationships and more. Caoileann is a registered dietitian and sports dietitian so all her advice is well researched. I have learnt so much about fuelling my mind and body from this podcast and her Instagram page @caoileannconway.

5. NewlyWeds

This is the podcast of newlyweds, Jamie and Sophie Laing. After the success of their original podcast ‘Nearlyweds’ which covered everything in the lead up to their big day, they are back to delve into married life. These pair are absolutely hilarious together and there doesn’t seem to be any topic of conversation off limits. From amazing guests to hilarious listener messages, this podcast is sure to brighten anyone’s day.

6. A County Down Under

Caroline McKenna is from Newcastle, Co. Down and her open and honest podcast covers topics such as the realities of moving abroad, health and mindset and she has some really interesting guests covering topics such as breath work and cold-water therapy. Caroline started her podcast and Instagram page whist living in Australia to share both the highs and lows of living away from home for seven years. She recently moved home and is holding event across Ireland and further field in a bid to tackle the issues around mental health and teach people how to find happiness within.

7. Happy Place

Fearne Cotton is a breath of fresh air in her Happy Place podcast. She talks to incredible people about life, love, loss and everything in-between to find out what happiness means to them. Fearne has had some very big names as guests on her podcast such as Dua Lipa, Shania Twain and Sir Bradley Wiggins to name a few. There are some truly heart-breaking stories on this podcast but hearing how they’ve found happiness even in the darkest of times is truly inspirational.

8. Happy Mum Happy Baby

Giovanna Fletcher is one of those very few people in life you could just sit and listen to all day. Her podcast is centred around motherhood discussing the highs, lows, challenges and rewards that it encompasses. Each week she invites along a guest to have a frank, honest and warm discussion about parenthood. If you’re a parent and just need a little support or just to feel like you’re not alone then give this podcast a listen because you’re not alone.

9. Life Lessons with Siobhan O’Hagan

Some of you might know Siobhan best from Instagram and her travels around the world. I started following Siobhan a few years ago when she was living in Bali and was couldn’t wait to hear her podcast when she announced it. Her podcast covers a variety of topics from hormones, politics, health and fitness and more recently some parenthood content as she is currently expecting her first baby. She has some really insightful conversations with knowledgeable guests on all different topics and I always feel a bit more educated after listening to an episode.

10. Glowing & Growing

Elle delves into all topics from self-love, motherhood, grief, spirituality, friendship and more. Elle has been posting videos on Youtube for many years and her new podcast is just like sitting having a chat with a friend as you grow and glow into the best version of yourself.

By Rebecca Parker

1. AC Marriott Hotel, Belfast

In a stunning waterfront location overlooking the Titanic Quarter and Belfast Hills, the AC Hotel is the perfect choice for a scenic and relaxed break. Guests can also enjoy some Mediterranean cuisine in their riverside restaurant, Novelli at City Quays, run by multi-Michelin-starred chef, Jean Christophe Novelli. The hotel is only minutes away from many tourist attractions such as Titanic Belfast and Victoria Square. It is also pet-friendly meaning you can bring your pooches along too.

Visit: www.marriott.com

2. Ten Square Hotel, Belfast

Boasting an impressive 131 guestrooms in the heart of the city is the Ten Square Hotel. Guests have the choice of three styles of rooms, including their contemporary, chic standard rooms, their deluxe reimagined rooms in the original 19^th century linen warehouse and their brand-new executive guestrooms. Many of their rooms offer views of the bustling city centre. Jospers Restaurant and Linen Bar is a firm favourite among city dwellers and tourists with the addition of their newly opened rooftop bar, The Loft for a calmer and more tranquil atmosphere.

Visit: www.tensquare.co.uk

3. The Fitzwilliam Hotel, Belfast

This outstandingly stylish 5 Star hotel is located in Belfast City Centre with so much to offer from 146 guestrooms and suites, delicious food, a bar with an extensive wine and cocktail menu and superb service – there isn’t much more you could want. It is the perfect location for a girlie getaway or summer escape.

Visit: www.fitzwilliamhotelbelfast.com

4. Titanic Hotel

Whether it’s a city break, romantic getaway or birthday celebration, the Titanic Hotel offers a range of amazing packages to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. It is the ideal place to stay if you’re looking to explore all that Belfast has to offer. They also have two options for dining including Drawing Office Two and the Wolff Grill for both residents and non-residents to enjoy.

Visit: www.titanichotelbelfast.com

5. Grand Central Hotel

Situated in the Linen Quarter in the heart of Belfast, this hotel oozes luxury and glamour. With 300 spectacular bedrooms designed with comfort in mind, guests can be assured of a relaxing stay. The hotel is also home to Ireland’s tallest cocktail lounge in their Observatory.  Residents can enjoy the Grand Café and Seahorse Restaurant to during their stay to make it a truly unforgettable experience.

Visit: www.grandcentralbelfast.com

Enniskillen business owner Lisa McElroy has credited a combination of retail experience, encouragement from her young daughter and a ‘Go For It’ attitude in giving her the push to start up her own business.  Supported by the Go For It programme, in association with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, MySHoo, an in-store and online footwear and accessories business, is now approaching it’s seventh month in operation.

This project is part funded by Invest Northern Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund under the Investment for Growth and Jobs Northern Ireland (2014-2020) programme.

Prior to launching MySHoo Lisa had managed a business with a similar offering but had always wanted to pursue the idea of transitioning from a Manager into an Owner and become her own boss. Lisa’s Covid experience was one of self-evaluation which is what ultimately sealed the arrival of MySHoo on Paget Square in Enniskillen.

Lisa explains: “Covid encouraged a lot of us take a step back and rethink the direction our lives were going and I was no exception. Combining my Covid experience with encouragement from my family and friends, I just felt it was time to take the leap and go for it!

“I wanted to do something for myself that would not only make me happy, but would show my children, who are truly my biggest inspiration, that anything is possible if you are determined and hard-working.”

Lisa launched MySHoo in Enniskillen after taking part in the Go For It programme through Fermanagh and Omagh Council.

The Go For It programme is delivered free of charge by a team of experienced business mentors through Northern Ireland’s wide network of enterprise agencies. It provides expert advice and support to develop a business plan that helps entrepreneurs turn their ideas into commercial businesses.

After seeing a Go For It social media post, Lisa got in touch with the programme online and from there, began the process through in-person meetings.

Lisa continues: “The Go For It programme was invaluable in encouraging me to take those initial steps towards setting up on my own. I was matched with a business advisor at Fermanagh Enterprise Limited whose support and encouragement made me realise that my own business was not untenable.

“My advisor communicated the importance of market research, financial planning, legal requirements and marketing and sales strategies, all of which contributed to the development of the overall business plan. The plan was fundamental in helping me understand the financials involved in running my own business, as well as highlighting elements I hadn’t even considered such as the importance of employee and business insurance.”

Lisa encourages anyone with the urge to start their own business to stop overthinking and reach out for help: “It is true what they say – you’ll never know unless you do it! I have opened my business at a time where the economic situation is really tough. I have also had to address my lack of self confidence and embrace the powers of social media and self-publicity, putting my face and personality behind the brand on such a public platform. It has definitely been a scary time but the support from my friends, family and local community has been unbelievable! I am excited to see what the future holds for MySHoo.”

Siobhan Colton, Business Advisor at Fermanagh Enterprise said: “Lisa is a fantastic example of someone who absolutely went for it! She believed in herself and her business idea and took the leap that many are capable of but often fear. Her extensive retail experience gave her the foundation skills needed and, through the support of the Go For It programmes, Lisa was able to enhance those skills and transform her dream into a reality.

“Lisa is trading against quite a challenging economic backdrop but her hard work and determination have resulted in a very successful initial 6 months and I have no doubt this success will continue. She has experienced the flexibility and autonomy that comes with running your own business and she is, undoubtedly, thriving.”

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District, Councillor Thomas O’Reilly, said: “It is so encouraging for both our local council area and Northern Ireland as a whole to see ambitious individuals like Lisa seek out the help they need in making their dream a reality.

“It is businesses like MySHoo that contribute to the growth of our local economy and inspire aspiring entrepreneurs to also make the leap! I would encourage anyone tempted to make the move into self-employment to engage with the Go for It programme. I would like to wish Lisa and all those making those initial steps on the business set-up journey all the very best for the future.”

If you have a business idea you’d like to develop or if you are thinking about starting a business, contact the Go For It programme on: 0800 027 0639 or visit: www.goforitni.com.