London: Green fingered garden lovers, shopping enthusiasts, fashionistas and foodies are being encouraged to get into the swing of spring as the Country Living Magazine Spring Fair returns to the Business Design Centre in London. Held on the 12-16th March 2008 in Islington, this annual springtime event captures the very essence of this vibrant season all under one roof.
There are five pairs of tickets worth £14.50 each. Email us with your name and address at readeroffer@elixirnews.com with Country Fair in the email header by 4 March 2008. No cash equivalent is being offered and the Editor’s decision is final.
Now in its 17th year, the Fair sees hundreds of exclusive designers, craftspeople and small producers showcasing the finest in British crafts, home furnishings, specialist beauty products, unique jewellery and fashions as well as the best in homemade food and drink. A visit to the Fair is the perfect opportunity to banish those winter blues and embrace spring by stocking up on gorgeous, one of a kind items for yourself, your home and your garden.
Explore the craft demonstration area and watch various craftsmen at work. Using a range of traditional techniques a wood turner, furniture maker and stonemason will be demonstrating their fascinating crafts.
In the Lifestyle Theatre, a diverse range of talks and demonstrations will be taking place over the duration of the Fair, where visitors can learn more about topics such as flower arranging and holistic remedies. Pick up some springtime interior inspirations from colour consultant Joa Studholme of renowned decorative paint and wallpaper company Farrow and Ball. Learn more about mushrooms and cultivating a climate change garden from River Cottage.
Foodies and self pronounced connoisseurs of British produce should not miss the Fairs fabulous Food Hall. Sample fresh flavours from many of the countrys finest producers and indulge yourself in the endless selection of fine wines, traditional pies, artisan breads, delicious preserves and sweet Easter treats.
Shoppers can enjoy a complimentary glass of wine as they indulge in some late-night shopping at the Gala Evening, held on Wednesday 12th of March. £4 from every Gala Evening ticket sold will be donated to The Field Studies Council (FSC), this years Country Living Magazine Spring Fair charity affiliate. The FSC is an environmental education organisation committed to helping young people understand and appreciate the natural world through field trips and cross-curricular courses.
Heres a sneak preview at some of this years Spring Fair exhibitors:
Giddy Kipper
Using their fascination for the seaside as inspiration, Heidi Bowmen and Steve Clawson create a range of original and quirky products for the home. From boat bookends and polka dot peg boards to rustic hanging mirrors, each item is crafted from new or reclaimed timber and then personally hand painted by the duo in an array of vibrant colours. Products from Giddy Kipper are sure to bring the colourful charm of Spring into your home.
Bradleys the Tannery
This independent leather tannery, based in heart of Shropshire, brings the traditional methods of leather making to whole new heights. Bradleys the Tannery create handcrafted leather and suede gardening tools and accessories in a lively selection of colours. As well as aprons, gloves, bags and hats, Bradleys the Tannery also have an assortment of tools in beautiful coloured pouches to choose from.
Katherine Hooker
Much like the designer herself, each of Katherine Hookers designs are entirely individual and a gorgeous fusion of vintage East Coast America and contemporary England. Classic elegance meets modern chic define the essence of each piece, from beautifully sculpted coats and jackets to skirts, dresses and accessories. Choose from Katherines gorgeous new ready to wear Spring collection or liaise with the designer herself to create your own unique garment from over 150 different fabrics including tweeds, silks, linens and cashmeres.
Cornish Cheese Company
Artisan cheesemaking is the Cornish Cheese Companys speciality, producing a delicious young blue cheese to rival other British blue cheeses. The distinctive handmaking process used to make each round, paired with the unique texture, flavour and character of the cheese, have earned this farm based business many prestigious and well deserved awards.
Ticket Prices: Advance Door
Adult £11.00 £14.50
Adult Country Living Subscriber £10.00 £14.50
Gala Evening £11.00 £12.50
Gala & Sunday Shop £15.00 £17.50
OAP £N/A £11.00
Children 5-16 £6.50 £8.00
Under 5s Free Free
For further information and to book tickets, please visit www.countrylivingfair.com or call 08701 261 800
