Spark some romance on Valentine’s Day with this carefully selected range of wines. Whether it’s a special night in with your loved one, or a toast with friends to the single life, there is no better way to celebrate than with this range of full bodied reds, sparkling rosés, and light whites.
Hardys Nottage Hill Cabernet Shiraz is full of plum and blackcurrant notes, making it the perfect accompaniment to an intimate dinner at home. Or why not try Banrock Station’s Shiraz Rosé, with cherry and strawberry flavours to add sweetness and sparkle to your evening.
Read on for more wines to perfectly complement the most romantic day of the year; although these can be sampled well past 14th February!

Reds

Hardys Nottage Hill Cabernet Shiraz is great for sharing over Valentine’s dinner. This generously sweet wine is ripe with plum and bright red berry fruits. Why not try with roasted meats and Moroccan dishes such as spice lamb tagine for the perfect finish.

Widely Available for £7.99

Sparkling

Banrock Station Shiraz Rosé is a bright and flavoursome sparkling rosé with a crisp, refreshing taste. Add sparkle to your night with this delicious wine bursting with strawberry and cherry flavours

Available at Waitrose for £8.99

Whites

Hardys Nottage Hill Chardonnay is a lively wine filled with fruit characters of white peach and nectarine; toasty oaks hints adding complexity. Great with seafood, why not start the night with oysters?

Widely Available for £7.99

Rosé

Banrock Station Pink Moscato displays fresh, aromatic notes of citrus and melon with a touch of sherbet and musk. Best suited as an aperitif, serve chilled with starters or canapés on Valentine’s Day to make for an extra special night.

Available at Sainsbury for £5

Hardys Stamp Grenache Shiraz Rosé is a beautifully fruity and floral wine with luscious rich berries and a crisp acid finish. Make sure you have a bottle of Hardys Stamp chilling in the fridge this Valentine’s Day.

Available at Tesco, Nisa and Bargain Booze from £6.99

Stowells White Zinfandel is a light bodied, medium sweet wine. Full of summer fruit pudding flavours with a hint of white pepper on the finish, it is sure to inject some spice into your evening.

Widely Available for £5.49

Kick start your New Year the way you mean to with the help of healthy eating specialists The Food Doctor, who are on hand to make healthy living a lifestyle choice.

Perfect Start Cereals such as their award winning, Cacao & Tangerine Granola or Multigrain & Seeded Porridge, offer a nutritious and a healthy start to the day.  Their high fibre content helps maintain a healthy digestion, slowly breaking down to provide a steady flow of energy throughout the day.

Their latest creations, Wholesome Pots are a delicious, healthy and convenient lunch option.  Just add boiling water to a Cous Cous & Lentil Pot with Cumin Coriander, just one of the three flavours available, to steer off those horrid hunger pangs when you need it most, at home, at the office or on the go.

Snacking is sorted with tasty High Fibre Crackers, Savoury Seed Mix and their delicious Roasted Bean Mix making 4pm chocolate runs a thing of the past.

The Food Doctor products are all designed in line with The Food Doctor’s healthy lifestyle initiative – to help people to Eat Better Forever. The Food Doctor consults at The Food Doctor clinic based on Harley Street, London.

A refreshingly light taste experience, Stowells Light is a delicious treat that’s both full of flavour and low in calories.

Stowells Light stands up to taste tests. Bursting with fruity aromas and a touch of sweetness, it’s a fresh choice which can be enjoyed at every occasion, plus it has the added benefit of containing less calories and alcohol than your usual glass of wine.

With just 60 calories per glass, that’s 30 per cent less than a standard glass of wine, and less than one unit of alcohol per 125ml serving, the crisp flavours of its Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc  grapes are perfect to enjoy on it’s own or with a Mediterranean fish stews; with the Shiraz Rose an ideal partner to fresh ‘superfood’ salads.

Did you know that one glass of Stowells Light contains over 120 less calories than a packet of Malteasers? A light treat for those looking for something different to their usual tipple.

Tasting Notes:

Stowells Light White:
Made from a blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, Stowells Light White is bursting with melon, pear and apricot fruit flavours, balancing fresh acidity with a touch of sweetness.

Stowells Light Rosé:
This Shiraz Rose is a vibrant youthful pink, full of juicy strawberry, raspberry and cherry fruit flavours.  Perfectly balanced with a zesty acidity and a touch of sweetness.

Stowells Light is available at all ASDA stores nationwide for RRP £5.49

If you’re one of the hundreds of thousands of people planning to switch over to a shiny new phone for the New Year, then the chances are you’re also expecting a few days of frustration, delay and stress as you get to grips with the switchover from your old to your shiny new device.

However, help is at hand from the tech experts at Geek Squad who have created a ‘cheat sheet’ to help you keep calm and keep your contacts on your new mobile. Whether you’re shifting from Android to Apple, or Blackberry to Nokia, this advice is designed to make the transition as smooth as possible.

1.       Email and Calendars
If using your phone to access your email and calendar then the last thing you want is to see messages and appointments dropping out of your inbox. Transferring onto a commonly used system like Gmail could help you seamlessly transfer not only your email, but also your calendar and phone directory from one phone to another, because the system is compatible with both Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS software platforms. Apple’s iCloud service is also a useful tool, as it allows iPhone users to access third party systems like Google’s Calendar and Mail services, meaning you won’t miss out on your appointment or message.

2.       Messaging services
Many phones offer access to social messaging services such as Twitter or Facebook – it’s relatively simple to switch over your account onto a new device, but do make sure it’s been disabled on your old phone to stop any ‘friends’ accessing your feed! The only exception to this rule is Blackberry Messenger which is a service that only Blackberry supports, so if you’re leaving the RIM world to join Android or Apple, you won’t be able to take your BB friends with you. Consider alternative instant messengers like Twitter and Windows Live Messenger, both of which are supported across multiple platforms beyond mobile alone.

3.       Text Messages
Text messages often hold some of our closest memories these days – from organising a first date to a heartfelt message from family, so the last thing you want to do is throw away those memories when you make the switch. Unfortunately transferring your old SMS text messages to your new phone can be a bit tricky. There is some nifty third-party software out there, which does the job for a small premium. Try SMS Export, available through the App Store. The App allows you to export your SMS messages in text format, which can then be transferred onto the MicroSD card in your new Android phone. Finally, download an App from the Android market like SMS Migrator to complete the process.

4.       Music
Smart phones are being used more and more as our portable music players, and with downloads available direct to the handset it’s important you don’t lose any of your collection when you switch phones. The best way to do this is to use a music library on your computer – iTunes or Window’s Media Player are the easiest to set up and use. It’s simply a case of plugging in your old phone, transferring the music to your library, and then transferring your collection over to your new phone – you can always edit out any musical mistakes when you make the transition!

5.       Data
Users tend to particularly worry about losing their data when switching or upgrading their phone, but it’s important to remember that things can go wrong at any point, even with a tried and tested handset that you’ve owned for months, which is why it’s a good idea to regularly back up. You can change your preferred settings so that your phone is automatically backed-up to a Cloud service, which means you can forget about needing to sync using your handset USB cable or any potential data loss.

For more guidance on switching phones (or any other Christmas tech teaser) from the Geek Squad Agents visit www.geeksquad.co.uk or for face-to-face help find your nearest Agent in-store at www.geeksquad.co.uk/storelocator

Towards the end of 2011 I was lucky enough to be asked to try out Diet Chef, a weight loss programme that provides you with all the meals and info that you need to create a healthy diet plan. I found it a really interesting approach to weight loss and perhaps something that may work for you if you are planning those pesky new years diets or healthy eating resolutions! 

Here’s some more info about Diet Chef, keep reading below for my review and full thoughts…

The only proven way to lose weight is to use up more calories than you eat. It’s that simple – and that difficult! Diet Chef brings you healthy, great tasting food that will make it as easy as possible for you to stick to your diet.

Diet Chef comes in 1200 calorie a day hampers (mainly for women) and 1500 calorie a day hampers (mainly for men) so you will be eating 800 calories a day less than you burn.You also get ‘All you need to know’, a 48 page guide to the diet covering how the diet works, drinks, fruit & vegetables, exercise, help for eating out, days off, maintenance once you’ve lost the weight and lots of hints and tips to keep you going.

As a customer you will also get access to lively forums, where you can chat to other people losing weight with Diet Chef. It’s a great place to get support and tips from people who really understand.

What to do:

Order easily online or via telephone.
Select your personalised hamper to suit your needs and tastes
We will deliver it to you within 2-3 working days
Have it delivered to the most convenient address
Free 48 page diet guide
Just store the food in the cupboard
Microwave in 2-3 minutes or on the hob
Add your own fresh fruit and vegetables
Enjoy a delicious chef prepared meal

What I loved about Diet Chef is how easy it is to use. It is definitely the busy girl’s dream diet. Most of the meals can be popped straight in the microwave and are ready in just a few minutes. They taste lovely and not at all how I expected and sometimes it was great just to not have to worry about planning my next meal or calorie counting as for the most part, all of that is already done for you!

The meals arrive in microwaveable packs and you add your own fresh fruit and veg. This works REALLY well for me as I’m a bit of a fresh salad, fruit and veg addict. If you choose something like broccoli or peas for your veg with any of the meals you will find that they actually cook in the same time (5 minutes ish) as the main. In fact, most veg would be fine as long as you like it al dente, which I love.

I must admit, I was quite dubious about this at first though. The idea of eating microwaved meals daily just didn’t appeal but as soon as I tried the first one I was proved wrong. They don’t taste cardboardy or bland (with the tiny exception of a couple, mentioned below) they are packed with flavour and the portions are just enough to fill you up. I have heard some people being a little shocked about the size of the muesli packs and yes they are small portions but give them a go as I promise they do fill you up! You can even have a piece of fresh fruit chopped up with it or on the side if you like and there are also other alternatives like delicious breakfast bars and porridge. The snacks are great and I love the sweet maple popcorn.

The quality of the food is generally good, the soups are delicious, hearty and filling, the main meals are packed with flavour and there is a good selection on offer. The only meals I had any issue with, taste and quality wise were the lasagne and cottage pie meals. I’m not sure if it was just me, but they didn’t taste as full of flavour as some of the others and I just wasn’t a fan.  Tell me if you’ve had a different experience though as I’m sure everyone’s taste buds are different.

All in all Diet Chef is going to be perfect for a lot of people due to its ease and flexibility. It may not suit everyone, especially those who enjoy cooking and don’t mind taking 20 mins extra to whip up a main meal themselves but for those on the go, living alone or just needing some brilliant motivation and help sticking to their diet then Diet Chef could prove a real godsend.

Check it out in full detail with prices, delivery info and more here:  www.dietchef.co.uk

Home and gardens accessories website alife-lessordinary.com has relaunched with a new name that will make the quirky and distinctive brand easier to find! The site relaunched recently as JaneTrozzo.com after fans persuaded the inspiration and owner of  the site – Jane Trozzo – the website’s name should reflect her individual flare for interior design.

To celebrate the re-launch, Jane Trozzo is launching an exclusive range of personally designed Christmas accessories, including a stylish Red Ruffle Heart.

Thousands of people have already transformed their homes and gardens with the help of the quirky website which sells distinct and unusual accessories that can’t be found on the high street.

Said Jane Trozzo: “We changed the name because some customers were kind enough to say ‘You should really name the site after yourself, because your style is so distinct’. My husband’s surname is Italian which gives the new brand an interesting twist. Also, I think people will be able to find the new site more easily, if I’m honest!”

“Designing some Christmas accessories seemed a logical progression from selecting inspiring and intriguing items from around the world. I’ve enjoyed making our Christmas items. My favourite is the Red Ruffle Heart, which is perfect for all year round!

Janetrozzo.com products are all made from natural materials including linen, jute, silk, lead, wood and flax – and are designed to suit all budgets.
The website offers everything from jute floor cushions and chunky kitchen jars to luxurious antique design lighting, Japanese rain chains and antique-effect sunflower mirrors.

Janetrozzo.com regularly supplies accessories for magazine and newspaper shoots and features stunning photography to profile the extensive range of products.

The new Jane Trozzo designed range of Christmas accessories(pictured), including pot pourie, garland, cinnamon sticks and a ruffle Christmas tree, will be added to the site and available from 1 September. The Red Ruffle Heart, made from felt, will be priced at £18.

“As Janetrozzo.com has grown, the people who shop with us have become more like friends than customers. Interior design is something I am passionate about and it’s a joy to share my love with others,” added Jane.

Want some last minute yummy treats for Halloween? Take a look at the below for some delicious spook-tastic cereal that kids and adults will love!

Thought the breakfast table was safe? Think again! Prepare to be spooked out of your wits as Honey Monster’s terrifyingly tasty cereal, Spooky Puffs rises onto shelves for a second year running, just in time Spooky Puffsto go Trick-or-Treating.

Crammed full of scrummy toffee-apple flavoured puffs, Spooky Puffs is a breakfast treat for those tricky little monsters. The limited edition cereal contains no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives as well as being a source of fibre.

Speaking about Honey Monster’s latest offering, Sheena Darji, Brand Manager, said, “Following the frightfully great reception Spooky Puffs received last year, we just had to bring them back this year with a bit of twist, and nothing says Halloween like the flavour of Toffee Apples! As a brand, we’re always eager to develop new and exciting flavours for Honey Monster as well as building on old favourites that we know our consumers love”.

Spooky Puffs is the third limited edition to be produced by Honey Monster Foods this year, following in the footsteps of Honeycomb Puffs and Strawberry puffs. Other lines in the standard edition range include Sugar Puffs, Honey Waffles, Choco Waffles and Choco Puffs.

We love receiving flowers ( what girl doesn’t?!) and think that boys have no excuse these days for not sending some out to the special lady in their lives. This week we’re taking a look at ideas for gifting from Interflora!
It’s not just flowers that Interflora do these days either, they have a great selection of Birthday gifts including chocolates and hampers!

Whether you are looking for a gift for a partner, family member or best friend it’s probably safe to say that you will be able to find something that fits the bill using online stores nowadays. Check out our list below of the top 5 birthday gifts for women as recommended by Girlie Gossip!

1) Flowers
2) Perfume
3) Beauty Products
4) Books
5) Electronics & DVD’s

Don’t forget to be creative! If you buy a book, why not write a message inside to add that extra bit of romance? You could choose a loved one’s favourite poem and inscribe the inside cover or perhaps include a phrase or message that only she will understand! If you’re ordering flowers, include a personal message to be delivered with them, this can just as easily be done when ordering flowers online as when in a store now.

Whether the lady in your life is in to big floral displays or dark and brooding winter flowers, there are always fantastic gifts for her to be found. Put in the leg work, fellas and spoil your lucky lady. She probably deserves it!

Keep checking back for more birthday ideas and seasonal gifting suggestions on our lifestyle columns and Christmas gift guide!

About Interflora

Every day, thousands of people trust us to deliver their good wishes and thoughtful sentiments on their behalf. But it’s not just about being the largest – we pride ourselves on being the most personable too.
Everyone involved – from our florists, to our delivery drivers, to our customer advisors – all take care to add a little personal touch to the Interflora experience.

We’re also proud that so many award-winning florists choose to be part of the Interflora family. Each of our expert florists has the unique blend of skills, creativity and attention to detail needed to create every handmade Interflora bouquet.

With all of this talent to draw upon, we offer an exciting and fresh new selection of floral gifts for every special occasion and every season too. From contemporary chic to classic favourites, as well as unique creations via our Designed to Order service, our florists create perfect bouquets every day.

As well as being the largest, we’re the longest serving flower delivery network too. For almost 100 years we have enjoyed a reputation for excellence. Used throughout the ages our Mercury Man emblem is recognised worldwide as a symbol of swift and timely delivery and the very best quality floral gifts.

Every bouquet ordered from us is prepared with care and hand-delivered as promised. And with our international network of florists, a special bouquet can be handmade and delivered almost anywhere in the world in just a few hours.

What springs to mind when you think of children’s crafts? Hair full of glue, a carpet covered in sequins and plenty of paint and dried pasta left to clear up at the end? Yes, thought as much.  With Halloween just around the corner we look at budget Halloween decorations, goodies and crafts from Poundland!

It all looks ever so easy on Blue Peter, with their famous ‘one I made earlier’ but in reality we don’t all have the time, patience or artistic ability to pull off a full size rocket made from toilet rolls and PVC glue. And yet there are the happy childhood memories of making birthday cards and homemade gifts for family members; not that they resembled much but the thought was there.

While we all like the idea of being the perfect parent who embraces creative activities and then sweeps up the mess in one fell swoop, we all know this is difficult to achieve we’re busy and stressed. Let’s face it, most of the time it can seem like an uphill struggle trying to gets kids interested in anything other than the latest console, computer game or internet craze. But despite this, there is a trend for nostalgic toys and old fashioned crafts beginning to bloom, as we look to old traditions for parenting inspiration and think about value for money for children’s free time.

It’s great to get children thinking creatively and expressing themselves through arts and crafts and – if you know where to look – it can be a pleasure, not a pain.

Check out our images below for some of our favourite Halloween themed products available at Poundland!

This Halloween, Sainsbury’s new spooky ice cream is sure to add a chill to your celebrations.  Whether you’re planning a creepy children’s party or just looking for a sweet treat, Sainsbury’s ‘Toxic Swamp’ is perfect for sharing over the spooky season…

The spine-chilling dairy ice cream is a cool mint flavoured ‘toxic sludge’ with swirls of strawberry ‘zombie blood’ and white chocolate ‘crunchy broken bones’.  The new flavour has been devilishly devised by Sainsbury’s Halloween I-Scream Competition winner Christopher George, aged 9 from Hampshire.  The competition invited children to submit their own flavours with the prize of the winning recipe being sold in 350 Sainsbury’s stores this October.  Christopher’s name appears on all the pots sold.

Made exclusively for Sainsbury’s, by a West Country producer, using fresh British milk and cream, it doesn’t contain any artificial colourings or flavouring, making it a yummy treat for your little devils or wicked witches.

Lianna Costin, Sainsbury’s Ice Cream Technologist, said: “Today has been a great success.  The finalist’s ice cream flavours showed lots of creativity and we had some truly terrifying suggestions.  Christopher’s ice cream idea won because not only did the flavours work so well together, but it looked the most ‘scary’ when we served it up. The fun bit is that Christopher will now get to see his ice-cream creation sold on shelves of Sainsbury’s stores nationwide! A deserving and spooky winner.”

Christopher George, I-Scream winner from Hampshire said: “I can’t believe I have won! I can’t wait to give all of my friends a taste of my Toxic Swamp ice-cream invention.  I want to take it home and make milkshakes out of it.”

The 500ml pots, priced at £2 is available in 350 stores this October.