FAMILY, HOME & WELLNESS MADE IN OUR HELLO SUMMER IRELAND SPECIAL ISSUE€2,000+SizzlingPrizesSTYLE & 32BEAUTY BITSJewelleryCollectionStanley TucciIn ItalySeasonal CocktailsLowdown on:Sun ProtectionJewelleryWedding Beff esLauraNolanSTYLE MAVENMood BoardCover mein SunshineLauraGet the LookSUMMER DRESSESWedding Beff es Issue 12 June 22nd 2026€3.50(NI stg £3)
Contact us: Subscriptions, email [email protected]; telephone hotline, 01 465 9872. Woman’s Way queries, email [email protected]; website womansway.ie. Published by Harmonia Limited, printed by Boylan Print Group, distributed by Newspread. Woman’s Way is now a fortnightly magazine. Subscription rates for the Island of Ireland are: Annual €91.00,; Six Months: €45.50; Monthly Payments: €7.58. Woman’s Way Subscriptions Dept, Units 2&3 M50 Business Park, Ballymount Avenue, D12 HP11. © 2026 Harmonia Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior permission of the publishers. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors in advertisements, articles, photographs or illustrations. All information is correct at time of going to press.SUBSCRIBE TO WOMAN’S WAY & DON’T MISS A SINGLE ISSUETo subscribe online log on to womansway.ie or call the Subscription Hotline on 01 465 9872Photographers: Guilherme Resende & Edgar Camargo @guilhermertds4 Laura Nolan: The pro dancer on saying ‘I do’ and her hopes for the future.50 Summer Hosting: Interior design hacks.66 Gardening Bees: How to tell them apart.68 Behind the Scenes at Chelsea: We sneak a peek.56 Cook Like a Chef: Mark Moriarty’s recipes, as seen on telly.58 Seasonal Cocktails: From Aperol mimosa to lavender lemon drop.60 Greek and Cypriot Cooking: Georgina Hayden shares some of her favourite dishes.10 Midlands Park Hotel: A two-night family break.26 Visit Waterford: An overnight escape for two.28 The Imperial Hotel: A Stay, Spa & Sip package for two.72 Procydin: Five hampers of grape seed extract.18 Get The Look: Summer romance.20 Sizzling Swimwear: Flattering styles.22 7 Key Jewellery Pieces: The must-haves.24 Lowdown on SPF: The different types.27 Beauty Shelf: The best new launches.29 Eye Makeup for Hooded Eyes: Top tips.ON THE COVERHOME & GARDENFOOD & DRINKWIN WIN WINFASHION & BEAUTY4Or subscribe by simply scanning the Woman’s Way QR Code€2,00012 Shop Queen: Meet nominee Karolyn Mac Hale of Aria Boutique.BEKO WOMAN’S WAYMUM OF THE YEAR28686024 Lowdown on SPF: 27 Beauty Shelf: The best new launches.29 Eye Makeup for Hooded Eyes:
CONTENTSOnline...womansway.ieSubscribe...01 [email protected]/womanswayTikTok...@womansway1 Instagram...Womans_wayCarifi a xx86 Irish Stars at the Baftas: Summer glamour.88 Running Against Time: Across Ireland’s 32 counties for charity.90 Food With Purpose: Sustainability at home and abroad.92 Family: How to raise kids the Japanese way.76 Chasing Goals: Athlete Spencer Matthews talks mindset.78 Caring for People with Dementia: A personal experience.80 When the World Feels Too Much: How to cope.82 6 Signs of PCOS: All about polycystic ovary syndrome.84 Preventing Alzheimer’s: Lifestyle changes.Publisher: Norah Casey Editor: Carissa CaseyContributing Editor: Astrid MadsenEditorial Assistant: Dara CaseyContributors: Kathy Donaghy, Brenda McCormick, Áine O’ConnorArt Director: Karl O’Toole Designers: Áine Duffy and Susan ConleySubscriptions: [email protected]: [email protected]’s Way, June 22 2026 Vol.64 Issue 1240 Family Holidays: Comedian Jason Manford on making them count.42 Discovering St Louis: A trip to America’s heartland.44 Stanley Tucci’s Secret Italy: Uncovering Le Marche.48 FIFA World Cup Cities: The match destinations that deserve a visit.49 Luxury at the Lakes: A visit to The Europe Hotel & Resort in Killarney.30 Cosy Crime: Jeremy Vine’s latest book.32 Patricia Cornwell’s Dark Art: From books to television.34 6 LGBTQ+ Novels: For Pride Month.36 Chill Zone: Great watches you may have missed.38 Books: Check out our top picks.39 Film Review: Disclosure Day.9 We Love: The WW team shares what they’re loving.14 Mood Board: Cover me in sunshine.52 You Said It: Readers’ letters and pictures.54 Timeout: Take a break and try our Prize Crossword.70 Craft: Food crochet.73 Horoscopes: What’s in the stars for you?75 Ask Fiona: Our columnist answers reader dilemmas.94 Why Is This a Thing?: Oil dependency. Welcome to our Hello Summer special issue. What an amazing time of year. I fi nd myself still marvelling at how bright it is until quite late now. We’re closing in on the longest day and summer is well and truely underway.As a fan of preloved clothes, there are certain items I will always buy new and swimwear is one of them. So I was very interested in the swimwear trends piece on page 21 and really appreciate the tips on fi nding a good fi t from the amazing Daina at Susan Hunter Lingerie. I’ve been applying SPF every day for a few years now but in summmer – as a keen gardener – I take extra care. That said, I can’t be the only one who gets confused by all the different types. I found the piece explaining the difference between mineral and chemical SPFs really informative, page 24. Don’t ever scrimp on sun protection ladies. And fi nally, while I didn’t get to visit the Chelsea Flower Show, I did love reading about what it’s like behind the scenes, page 68. Gardeners really are the best lot and it’s great to hear that even in a competitive environment, they still help each other out.We loved putting this issue together for you. We hope you enjoy!Le gráFEATURESTRAVELENTERTAINMENTREGULARSTHE WW TEAM9 We Love: they’re loving.14 Mood Board: 52 You Said It: 54 Timeout: Crossword.70 Craft: TRAVELREGULARSHEALTH & WELLBEING30 Cosy Crime: 32 Patricia Cornwell’s Dark Art:books to television.34 6 LGBTQ+ Novels: 36 Chill Zone: missed.38 Books: 39 Film Review:ENTERTAINMENTTHE 8642Uncovering 94 Why Is This a Thing?: Oil dependency. 14
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WOMANSWAY.IE 5COVER Interviewcontinues overleaf >>“So, what we did was we took moments from different parts of the show, moments we had together that were kind of significant to us, and put them into the routine. “And we added them into a more relaxed kind of a dance; it has steps, but still more intimate than what you would see on the likes of Dancing with the Stars,” she says.She had also been putting her father Brian through his paces so he could perfect the father/daughter first dance. While Laura has already told Woman’s Waythat there was an instant attraction between her and Matthew, for him it was also a kind of thunderbolt moment.“My immediate thought was ‘Jes, she’s gorgeous’,” Matthew says of his first introduction to Laura by show producers at Dublin’s Gibson Hotel.“The producer introduced us to each other and then left. And we were chatting and chatting so much that he eventually had to come in and just kind of say, lads, I want to go home. “So, it was one of those where we got on really well straight away,” says Matthew, who runs a marketing company as well as being an influencer. “After that we went across the road and got drinks and food and stuff. And then we were chatting some more, and we got on like a house on fire. So it was like an instant attraction, I suppose,” he says.Very quickly their bond grew until they both knew that they’d met the person they would marry on the show that has changed her life in so many ways.Speaking from her home in Dublin via Zoom with Matthew joining from his parents’ home in Co Down where he’s on a flying visit, it was hard to believe they were only days from the biggest day of their lives as they couldn’t have been more chilled out.They fell in love with Kilkea Castle when they were visiting prospective venues, saying that it just matched exactly what they were looking for. Carlow Cathedral is not where Laura thought she would end up getting married but there’s a touch of serendipity to the choice. Laura has danced in the All-Ireland dance championships, which are held in Carlow, year after year and she laughs that this is, in its own way, a full circle moment. The day they planned together is what they call ‘traditional’ with their own twist on it. There is also a nod to how they met and the couple’s first dance undoubtedly contained elements of performance, but they were keen to make it a moment to cherish.“The dance has probably been two nights of 30 minutes work each. You’d swear we spent two or three weeks prepping this. It was trying to get a good balance because obviously everyone is expecting a dance, but at the same time, it’s our first dance,” says Laura.“And when you want to make it intimate and personal and not like a showpiece either, you know, your first dance is for yourselves too.”From the moment Laura Nolan and Mathew MacNabb met, both admit there was an instant connection that blossomed and grew. Speaking ahead of their wedding on May 30, Laura says she cannot wait to be Mrs MacNabb. Neither of them can believe that the day they have been planning for, and dreaming of, is finally here. There is much of their wedding that celebrates being part of the wider Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) family but more than anything it’s about bringing together those closest to them to witness their marriage vows. After a ceremony at Carlow Cathedral performed by Fr Ray Kelly, who took part in DWTS in 2020, the couple had their reception at the luxurious Kilkea Castle Hotel in Co Kildare. Former Eurovision winner Niamh Kavanagh, who carried Ireland to victory in the contest in 1993, sang in the church. And of course, Olympic gymnast Rhys McClenaghan, who lifted the glitterball on the show when partnered by Laura in the 2025 season of the show, also joined them for the celebrations. After six seasons on the hit show, Laura can’t believe how much her life has changed since she first joined the line-up of pro dancers.Not only has she lifted the coveted glitterball in that time but she also met the man she On the cusp of their wedding, Dancing with the Stars pro dancer Laura Nolan and Matthew MacNabb talk to Kathy Donaghy about starting their lives together after their dream wedding in Co Carlow.WeddingBelles“Obviously everyone is expecting a dance, but at the same time, it’s our first dance... you want to make it intimate and personal”
6 WOMANSWAY.IECOVER Interviewwanted to spend the rest of their lives with. “Going through that journey of Dancing with the Stars was actually quite funny because it was like a microcosm of a relationship in the sense of you’re going through these stressful moments and then you’re going through these joyful moments and you’re going through all the emotions that you could have over the course of a life and a marriage and stuff,” explains Matthew.“And going through Dancing with the Stars, you get all the pressure and you have like loads of people watching you. You have to learn something new. You don’t want to mess up. And we didn’t argue really at all during that entire process. And at that point, I was like maybe this could be something more. And I suppose that was kind of the first point I knew,” he says.Matthew says he loved how talented Laura was and how she lit up a room whenever she walked in but admits he also fell in love with her because she’s a really good person and was generous to him throughout the DWTS experience, even though he admits he wasn’t the best dancer. After feeling the sparks fly instantly on meeting Matthew, Laura says she was also conscious of getting the job done and being part of a professional show.The feelings they had for one another, she says, grew over time but they had to work out at the start whether what they were feeling was something that was happening because of the show or was it something else. However, their feelings for one another only grew stronger. As well as getting married, the couple have also bought their first home together in Co Meath. While they had been looking for a house, they didn’t realise that they’d go sale agreed on a property just as they were about to get married. Matthew, whose grandfather is from Co Meath, describes the cottage as the perfect place for him to do lots of DIY and they hope to get the keys in the coming weeks. But first comes their honeymoon. While they had thought about an African adventure, they opted for a relaxing holiday in Sardinia, which they felt would allow them to chill out after the wedding.Laura had been teaching in her own dance academy right up until the week before the wedding. Even then she says she didn’t realise just how much work there would be to get everything done for the big day.As well as DWTS friends, their families and close friends were a huge part of sharing their special day. While Laura doesn’t have any sisters, she had her four closest friends as her bridesmaids.“They are the four people who are very instrumental in my life. From my very, very first friend, the first girl I spoke to when I walked into Junior Infants, and all the way through to different girls who I met, who have been massive in my life as I’ve gone through it and who I’ve kept with me,” she says of her bridesmaids.Matthew’s brother is acting as his best man with his two brothers-in-law and one of his oldest friends as his groomsmen. The couple’s nieces and nephews make up the rest of the bridal party. Matthew’s sisters and Laura’s brothers, who aren’t part of the bridal party, are involved in the church ceremony as, for both, family is central to everything. When I ask them what they expect married life will hold for them and their hopes for the future together, Matthew is quick to say he already considers himself married to Laura and has done for a long time.“We’ve just been inseparable; we’re like best friends, and we do everything together, and that’s our lives. So, I think getting married is more of a nice celebration of that,” he says. Laura says she feels the same. “I’ve seen us as married without being actually married in the last few years, and I think
WOMANSWAY.IE 7I’m just so excited for it now, because I feel like, as Matthew says, we’ve been inseparable,” she says. “I absolutely adore him and I feel like now it’s just going to be our next step into our future together, and I’m just so excited for that, to create a unit and actually to take his name and to have that unit between ourselves, and that for me, is very exciting,” adds Laura.“And with it all happening, both the marriage and then also getting the house, I feel like we’re really starting to put down foundations for our future together now as well,” she says. I ask them if they think if the stars hadn’t aligned and Matthew hadn’t signed up to do DWTS, would they have met and been preparing to start the rest of their lives together. “It’s such a great question because I had this thought of the mad domino effect that certain choices in my life would have which started when I was in San Diego,” explains Matthew, who lived in the US city a year after completing his Masters.“Going out there, I said to myself, I want to just say yes to everything, and that led to the best time. I had such a great time. I met the most amazing people. I just carried that ‘say yes to everything and think of the consequences later’,” he says.When Love Island came calling, he said yes and when he came out of that, he got an email from the producers of DWTS. Of course, he said yes to that too.Matthew explains that he wanted to say yes to things, especially live performance, even though he was terrifi ed of people judging him. But in his own mind he can now join up the dots and see his life with Laura because of that decision to say yes to everything. Laura says she sometimes has the thought that maybe she could have missed meeting Matthew if things had been different. “I’m also a fi rm believer with everything in life that what’s for you won’t pass you, and if our paths were supposed to cross, they are meant to because there could be so many little things that could have stopped us from being together,” she says.When Matthew signed up to Dancing with the Stars, it wasn’t certain that that he would be partnered with Laura and she wonders if “I’m a firm believer in what’s for you won’t pass you, and if our paths were supposed to cross, they are meant to”they’d been partnered with other people would their relationship have bloomed. “We might have got on but we wouldn’t maybe have had the chance to actually get to know each other. “So even down to those little things of Matthew going on Love Island, me doing Dancing with the Stars, the show coming back that year, because the year prior to that, Dancing with the Stars was cancelled because of covid.“I often think how mad it is, but I really believe that if it’s meant to be, it will be, and I think you could see that from the minute that we met each other, that it was just so natural and so right,” says Laura.For both of them, the moment they are each looking forward to most is Laura walking down the aisle. “I cannot wait to walk down the aisle. I feel like that’s the moment where everything comes together. My dad is beside me. We’re going to have all our families stand there, and when Matthew turns around and sees me; I can’t wait for that moment,” says Laura. Matthew says he’s trying to make a conscious decision to enjoy every moment. “I just want to take every moment and kind of, like, embrace it and just enjoy it and treasure it,” he says. WWPhotography: Guilherme Resende and Edgar Camargo Instagram @guilhermertds
MADE IN IRELANDTERMS & CONDITIONS: Price includes P&P and is correct at time of going to press. Your subscription contract will be fulfilled by Harmonia Limited ([email protected]) together with its agents. See harmonia.ie for full terms and conditions. Prices quoted are for postal delivery to Irish addresses only. Please allow up to six weeks for delivery of first subscription issue via An Post. Buy online at:womansway.ieOr phone our Hotline on:01 465 9872Tired of reading from a tiny screen? Take time out from your busy life and rediscover the joy of fl icking through a beautifully designed magazine. Woman’s Way is the leading Irish women’s magazine, one of the few left on the market. We are a voice for Irish women and support Irish brands, large and small. Packed full of fabulous beauty, fashion, interiors, gardening, recipes and more, along with great stories and interviews with our favourite celebrities. You’ll see euro prices for all our product recommendations andthey are all available here in Ireland. We support Irish women, support us.Go on, treat yourselfTake time out,Take Woman’s WayOr subscribe by simply scanning the Woman’s Way QR CodeA NEW BUMPER ISSUEEVERY FORTNIGHT Our six monthly subscription isONLY €45.50or, even better, pay monthly forJUST €7.58
WOMANSWAY.IE 9Supporting Domestic Violence survivors I missed taking part in the Saoirse Domestic Violence Services 24-hour crafting challenge. But if you’re minded to support an organisation that provides life-saving services including refuge accommodation, a 24/7 helpline, counselling and children’s services for victims of domestic violence, then please visit sdvs.ie.Chocolate HeavenIf you’re looking for a Father’s Day gift, can I highly recommend Navan-based Lir Chocolate’s Guinness Collection. There’s something about the taste of the porter and chocolate together that works so well. There the Guinness Chocolate Pint Tin, €14, a pint-shaped tin fi lled with Guinness Chocolate Caramel Truffl es, Guinness Chocolate Bars €3.50, Mini Guinness Chocolate Pints €6.50 and the Guinness Can €8 Something for all budgets and sure, if he doesn’t like it himself... Carifi a Loves...Sixty is the New SixtyWell ladies, the big birthday has been and gone and I am now offi cially ‘in my sixties’. What struck me most was the number of people who said things like ‘oh 60 is the new 30, or the new 40’. I know they meant well but there was a part of me that wanted to say ‘hey, it wasn’t easy getting here, don’t take that away from me’. I’ve also no interest in going back in time. I really love where I’m at right now. So I put up a post on Instagram saying that and I was blown away by the response. So many women from their 40s right through to their late 70s and 80s all agreeing with me. These women were having the time of their lives. And there were some hard comments to read, one from a woman in her early 50s who was battling cancer and said she didn’t know whether she’d actually make it to 60. Ageing is a privilege and one I don’t take lightly. If you want to join a community of pretty amazing women, pop by my page on Instagram @carissathefi rstalso no interest in going back in time. I really love Ageing is a privilege and one I don’t take lightly. Dingle GemFor an amazing place to stay in lovely Dingle, Co Kerry, I can highly recommend Dingle Garden Townhouse, visit dinglegardentownhouse.com. It’s a little oasis of minimal luxury right at the top of the main street in the town, serving the most delicious breakfasts with freshly baked homemade scones every day. Lorcan Slattery and his brother Fearghal are the perfect hosts. WWto support an organisation that provides
COMPETITION COMPETITION10 WOMANSWAY.IEA FAMILY BEARK Win AT MIDLANDS PARK HOTELTo enter, please answer the following question:The Midlands Park Hotel is close to which mountain range?HOW TO ENTEREmail your answer by July 6 to: [email protected] including your name, address and telephone number and labelling your mail ‘The Midlands Park Hotel Competition’This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. Winners’ names may be published. The editor’s decision is fi nal.One lucky reader will win a two-night midweek stay at the Midlands Park Hotel in a spacious family room for two adults and two kids under 12, with breakfast both mornings and a three-course family dinner on both evenings at the Charter Bar & Eatery. Offering the ultimate family-friendly staycation, little VIPs are greeted on arrival at the hotel’s mini check-in desk with a welcome pack and an ice cream. In July and August, kids can enjoy cookies and milk at bedtime plus special movie screenings in a supervised room. There’s also a fully-equipped leisure centre with a children’s pool as well as giant outdoor games to keep everyone entertained. Ideally located in the heart of Laois, the hotel is close to the Slieve Bloom Mountains, the Rock of Dunamase and Emo Court, as well as numerous greenways and woodland trails for walking and cycling. For bookings, call 057 867 8588 or visit midlandsparkhotel.com. T&Cs: Prize available Sunday to Thursday, subject to availability. Accommodation for two adults and two children under 12 in a family room. No cash alternative or substitution offered.
WOMANSWAY.IE 11Get In TuneI am tremendously proud of our brother Ciaran Casey for the successful launch of his longawaited book Leadership In Tune.To write and launch a book on leadership is an achievement in itself. To create one that has the potential to genuinely change the way people lead, work and motivate is something far more signifi cant. At a time when the world is grappling with unprecedented change, a powerful new perspective on leadership can really make a difference. The true measure of such a book is not how many copies it sells, but how many lives, careers and organisations are transformed because of the ideas it contains. Visit leadershipintune.net.Gardening InspoOur annual pilgrimage to RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 caused a bit of a stir when I said I had just seen David Beckham and Alan Titchmarsh – although not sure which one was the main draw. It was wonderfully nostalgic this year and romantic, with lots of wild planting, meadow gardens and a real focus on nature and biodiversity. The big talking point, however, was the new David Beckham blush rose and pinker Alan Titchmarsh one – unveiled by David Austin Roses. As always, Chelsea is more than a fl ower show and I came back and overhauled my own outdoor spaces with beautiful fl owers. I just need more sunshine now.Norah Loves...A Girl Can DreamI love green and of course I love emeralds. This gem is way beyond my price range but the story captivated me. Royalty, aristocracy and heritage wrapped up in a beautiful emerald and diamond jewel. This beauty is the Inchiquin Emerald owned by direct descendants of the last high king of Ireland and it is for sale. It was given as a wedding gift to Ethel Jane Foster on her marriage to the eldest son of the 14th Baron Inchiquin in 1896 and has been held by the O’Brien dynasty for over a century. I love it (but from a distance) and you can salivate over it and dream on like me at hancockslondon.com.A Sad FarewellOur beloved friend, the legendary Ernie Whalley passed away recently. I saw him late last year and he was as exuberant and witty as ever despite the tough battle he was going through. He was one of Ireland’s most admired food journalists and a former editor of Food & Wine Magazine, sister title to Woman’s Way, and we were colleagues for some time. He joined us at Harmonia in 2002 like a whirlwind – brimming with ideas and an unrivalled passion for all things culinary – only equalled by his talents and passion for his beloved guitar. For decades he chronicled the people, places and fl avours that shaped Irish food culture, earning a strong reputation for his elegant writing and generous support of emerging talent. A much-loved fi gure and a champion of excellence in food, wine and culinary storytelling. You left a mark on this world and the people who knew you. Rest in Peace Ernie. WWDavid Beckham and Alan Titchmarsh RosesErnie WhalleyNorah with Ciaran
12 WOMANSWAY.IEOriginally from Rathcoole in Dublin, Karolynn Mac Hale has just celebrated 20 years of her business, Aria Boutique. Over two decades, the mum of three has built a successful retail enterprise in Naas, Co Kildare and has cultivated the type of community spirit that seems increasingly rare in our digital era.The story really began when Karolynn, who had studied marketing in college, went to Helsinki in Finland as part of her postgraduate degree. “I went for one year and stayed for seven,” she laughs. She worked for the global drinks company Pernod Ricard but just a few years after returning home, she decided to pivot into a new career.“I always had a grá to work for myself, and I suppose I had a bit of a passion for fashion as well,” Karolynn explains. “I opened the boutique in 2006, bringing in Swedish, Finnish and Danish brands that weren’t available in Ireland at the time.”Aria was a success from the beginning but in 2008, the recession hit – hard. “It was like the lights going off,” Karolynn says, “but I was lucky as well. I never reduced the quality of what we were offering. I diversified more into occasion wear, as people still had events to go to, whether it was weddings, christenings or communions. And then, because we're here in Kildare, we had a huge market for the racing, with Punchestown, Naas racecourse and The Curragh all nearby. “I had very good relationships with the marketing managers at all the racecourses, so that was definitely beneficial.”While Karolynn is a sharp businesswoman with a great eye for a stylish piece, she believes the biggest driver of Aria’s success is people. Not just her team in the boutique but her suppliers, and the supportive network in Naas and beyond. “Reflecting over the 20 years that I have been here, I really feel what’s been core to my success is the community spirit that I have built. That’s with the customers and the local businesses, from the racecourses to the restaurants,” Karolynn explains. She is also quick to mention that a lot of other business in the area are owned and run by women. “We all support each other,” she says.The place Aria holds in the minds and wardrobes of her customers is something Karolynn also greatly values. She was very moved when more than 300 hundred people came out to celebrate the business’s 20th birthday at an event in March, and on the day we spoke, she had just attended the funeral of a customer’s father. “With small, customer-driven businesses, your customers nearly become your friends,” she says. “We definitely consider our customers our ‘fashion friends’ – that’s what we call them.”According to Karolynn, the typical Aria customer is confident and knows what they like, but what would her advice be for those of us who are less adept at throwing a fantastic outfit together? “Try it,” she says, simply. “You just never know – until you find the right piece that makes you feel a million dollars. That’s what it’s all about.”It’s no small achievement, maintaining a successful business in Ireland for two decades, particularly in retail. “It’s hard work and it’s full on,” Karolynn admits. “You have to be there. You can have fantastic staff, which I do, but customers want to see the owner there. If the owner is not there, they don’t get a sense of what it is.“I remember when we had that bad snow, in 2011 I think, and my son Adam was a couple of months old in his car seat, and I had to bring him down and open the shop. They’re the type of sacrifices that you make and in those hard times you do need to have that drive and be able to do it.” In challenging times and when her children were younger, Karolynn thought of going into partnership with someone. But she stuck it out and focused on nurturing those relationships which have contributed so much to Aria’s success. Her boys, Adam, now 15, and twins, Zach and Lewis, both 11, are older now which By Brenda McCormick SHOP QUEENBeko Woman’s Way Mum of Year nominee, Karolynn Mac Hale turned her love of fashion into a thriving and much-loved business. “There is no cut-off time in a small business and you have to be aware of everything”
MUM OF THE YEAR 2026 WOMANSWAY.IE 13makes the juggle easier to manage and husband Niall is a huge help, but ultimately, it’s her business and her responsibility. “I am very hard working, but you’ve got to be,” she says. “There is no cut-off time in a small business and you have to be aware of everything, whether it’s the buying, the marketing or the fi nancial side.“Women are really phenomenal,” she adds. “We’re amazing multitaskers and we just get on with it.”Most working mums fi nd it hard to prioritise some self-care and Karolynn is no different. For her, downtime might mean going to the gym or doing some yoga, but it will most likely involve watching her sons playing sport, which is something she loves. “That’s my role and biggest achievement, being a mum to my boys,” she says. “Seeing them grow and seeing them achieve things, it fi lls the heart, doesn’t it?” Her boys are thriving and, after 20 successful years, there are exciting things ahead for her business too – but she’s staying tight-lipped for now. “We do have big plans,” she teases, “so watch this space. There’ll be more to come from Aria, most defi nitely.” WW Aria Boutique, 7 Poplar Square, Naas, By Brenda McCormick Co Kildare, visit ariaboutique.ie.Top PrizeThe Beko Woman's Way Mum of the Year will receive a €2,500 voucher to spend on Beko appliances.• If you’d like to nominate someone for Woman’s Way and Beko Mum of the Year Awards please email us on [email protected] and tell us why. Please include photographs and any supporting material.
14 WOMANSWAY.IEBy Áine DuffyThe Shorty Bedside Locker €149 Mustard MadeMood board
WOMANSWAY.IE 15By Áine DuffyMOOD BOARDCover me in sunshineSunny interiors to brighten up your home this summer.By Áine DuffyContinued overleaf >>Porcelain Medium Plate €4.99 H&MBromo Asymmetric Wall Lamp €129 Good&Mojo Helen James Considered Clifden Storage Jars €10Dunnes StoresCotton Canvas Beach Bag €14.99 H&MAcapulco Armchair €89KARE DesignGinger Lemon Reed Diffusers €29.99 Zara Half Sun Wall Sticker €39 namely.ieOchre Yellow 50x50cm Embroidered Floral Daisy Cushion €34 Next
16 WOMANSWAY.IERound Picnic Blanket €24.99 H&MLemon jar With Lid Ceramic €5.12 Søstrene GreneHelen James Considered Bia Tablecloth €25 Dunnes StoresSunshine Sunbrella Set €229 Zuiver Lemon Stripes Jug Vase €6.49 Home Store + MoreKARE Design Salamanca Velvet 3 Seater Sofa €2,789 Woo DesignTufted Flower-shaped Bath Mat €24.99 H&M4-pack Embroidery-motif Coasters €9.99 H&MBLODBJÖRK Vase Striped White/ Yellow 25 cm €19 IKEAHelen James Considered Conas Atá Tú Mug €6 Dunnes StoresLoungy Table Lamp €79Woo Design
WOMANSWAY.IE 17MOOD BOARDIrish MadeSummer-inspired décorcrafted close to home.Dawn by Sarah Boris €100 Damn Fine Print Blasta Books #2 Hot Fat€17 Blasta BooksIrish Kitchen Cocktails €18 Nine Bean RowsJerpoint Glass Small Bold Jug €58 Irish Design ShopMini Bowl €15 Adele Stanley CeramicsIrish Honey Bee Soft Toy €31 We Make GoodWe Make Good Bird Feeder €58 Irish Design ShopYelloe Vase - Burren Collection €115 Creative Clay Ireland
18 WOMANSWAY.IEBy Áine DuffySummer RomanceDress the part and look chic in the heat.Atelier Cotton Animal-Print Tailored Dress in Chocolate €640 REISSGold Plated Cubic Zirconia Original Large Floral Stud Earrings €125MoMusePaul Costelloe Living Studio Taupe Becca Shoulder Bag €70Dunnes StoresSunglasses RB2180 €162Ray-BanCinders Jana Classic Court Shoes €54.95Dunnes Stores
WOMANSWAY.IE 19GET THE LOOKBy Áine DuffyNaha Light Pink Crossbody Bag €55Oliver BonasBoden Blue Erma Drop Waist Linen Dress €224.50 NextMAJE Tortoiseshell Cat Eye Sunglasses €155 ArnottsElastic Multi-bracelet With Beads €15.99 ParfoisKG BY KURT GEIGER Aria Low2 Courts €150 Arnotts
By Lara Owens20 WOMANSWAY.IE1. RUCHING AND SCULPTINGRuching is this summer’s answer to contouring, and it seems to be becoming a fi rm favourite.“Ruching is brilliant because it works with your body, not against it,” says luxury stylist Oriona Robb, “it draws the eye exactly where you want it while providing comfort and fl exibility.”Rather than heavy gathering, well-tailored ruching can offer a more fl uid look that sculpts to your body without digging in or creating any forced silhouettes.From ruching to built-in jewellery – here are the best and most fl attering swimwear trends to hop on now.Choosing the best style of swimwear could be one of the most challenging wardrobe dilemmas of all – aside from perhaps fi nding the perfect pair of jeans.But this summer, designers have fl ooded the runways with new and interesting trends that may even excite you to try on swimwear, from ruching to cut outs and glamorous hardware.So if you’re currently planning a revamp of your swimwear drawer, here are the best swimwear trends to try this season.SIZZLING SWIMWEAR2. HIGH-WAISTED BIKINISThe retro high-waisted bikini popularised in the 1950s by the likes of Marilyn Monroe is a booming bikini trend this spring/summer.Robb explains that “high-waisted bottoms with structured tops […] create an hourglass silhouette that fl atters all body types”, making them a go-to for those perhaps ordering online and not wanting to try various silhouettes on.With polka dots also in the lead when it comes to popular prints – a full Fiftiesinspired two-piece, with a belt detail, feels particularly on trend.3. SQUARE-NECK SWIMSUITSWhile the scoop-neck dominated last “High-waisted bottoms with structured tops create an hourglass silhouette that flatters all body types”Boden Kythira Ruched Bikini Top €59Bikini Bottoms €59New Look Bright Blue Tummy Control Ruched Front Swimsuit €18Susan Hunter Mary Lynn Full Cup Swimsuit Rose Gingham €147
WOMANSWAY.IE 21STYLEBy Lara OwensTIPS FOR GETTING A GREAT FITIt’s not just how swimwear looks on the hanger. It’s how it fi ts your body. We asked Daina Creedon, owner of Susan Hunter Lingerie, for her top fi tting tips.• Choosing the right swimsuit starts with understanding your shape and, most importantly, your correct size. “So many women are still wearing the wrong bra size, and that carries over into swimwear,” says Daina. “Getting properly measured for your cup size is one of the most valuable things you can do. It completely changes how a swimsuit fi ts, supports, and fl atters your fi gure.”• A good swimsuit should lift and shape, not just cover. “Fabric quality and structure are essential – they make all the difference in comfort and longevity.”• A well-fi tting swimsuit should feel secure without digging in or slipping out of place. The band around the body should sit fi rmly and evenly, while straps should be adjustable to give proper lift and support. For those with a fuller bust, features like underwiring, structured shape or moulded cups, can make a signifi cant difference in both lift and comfort.• Fabric is another key indicator of quality. Look for swimwear made from durable, high-performance materials that offer good stretch and recovery, meaning they hold their shape even after repeated wear. A lower elastane content usually ensures a better fi t and longer lifespan. The fabric should feel smooth, substantial, and fully lined to prevent transparency when wet.• Construction details also matter. Strong stitching, reinforced seams, and well-fi nished edges are signs of a garment that will last. Pay attention to clasps, fastenings, and hardware – they should feel sturdy and secure. If you frequent saunas, make sure to avoid metals.• Finally, consider design elements that complement your body shape. Strategic ruching, panelling, and colour placement can enhance your silhouette, while supportive structures ensure you feel confi dent and comfortable throughout the day.Visit susanhunter.ie.STYLEIt’s not just how swimwear looks on the hanger. It’s how it fi ts your body. We asked Daina Creedon, owner of Susan Hunter Lingerie, for her top fi tting tips.Choosing the right swimsuit starts with understanding your shape and, most importantly, your correct size. “So many women are still wearing the wrong bra size, and that carries over into swimwear,” says Daina. “Getting properly measured for your cup size is one of the most valuable things you lower elastane content usually ensures substantial, and fully lined to prevent and well-fi nished edges are signs of a silhouette, while supportive structures summer, square-neck lines are leading the charge this season.“It frames the face beautifully and creates strong lines making it fl attering for both big and small chests,” says Robb.The appeal is perhaps down to its simplicity. It’s a subtle design detail, but one that instantly makes a swimsuit feel more on trend and fl attering.4. BRIGHT AND BOLDAfter a few seasons of minimalism and earthy tones, runways have brought back the brightest of the brights when it comes to colour.This season, large fl orals, fuchsia, cobalt blue and lime green are dominating.“There’s a growing awareness that the right colours can actually change how you feel about yourself,” says Robb, “it’s not just aesthetics, it’s psychology.”She points to deep, standout shades, that they can “trigger confi dence [and] a sense of empowerment psychologically”.Alongside these, rich neutrals are taking over the standard black and white.Swimwear designer Alexandra Miro says “sun-washed tones, warm neutrals and muted terracottas” are timeless and understated alternatives to the bold shades currently trending.5. METALLIC HARDWAREIf you worry about losing your jewellery at the beach, then this may be the best trend for you.Built-in embellishments and metallic hardware is one the newest trends to break the swimwear scene.“Subtle gold hardware [can] bring elegance and a bit more glamour while keeping the overall look still quite minimal,” says Miro.Whether through delicate link fastenings or belt details, small metallic touches can elevate even the simplest silhouettes.6. MINIMAL BANDEAU STYLESWhile halterneck bikinis seemed to lead the charge last summer, according to Miro, “bandeau shapes are particularly popular this season.“They pair effortlessly with resortwear to create a complete look, and they’re also ideal for avoiding tan lines.”They’re a minimal yet versatile option – making them the perfect addition to your holiday wardrobe. WWSIZZLING SWIMWEARAnd Other Stories Textured Bow Tie Swimsuit €59M&S Padded U-Notch Bandeau Bikini Top €22High WaistedBikini Bottoms €20Mango Asymmetrical Swimsuit with Gathered Detail €45.99H&M Padded Cup High Leg Swimsuit €29.99Susan Hunter Dalice Formed Wireless Swimsuit €173Susan Hunter Douala Full Cup Tankini Top €131Full Bikini Brief €59.90
22 WOMANSWAY.IEBy Lara OwenFrom necklaces to rings, here are the go-to staples everyone needs, according to a stylist.7 Key Jewellery PiecesWe often talk about wardrobe staples – the perfect white T-shirt, simple straight-leg jeans, a comfortable but smart shoe – but jewellery basics can be just as transformative.According to personal stylist Deborah Sheridan-Taylor, jewellery foundations are “your baseline, your starting point. The place from which everything else begins and builds.”Much like fashion basics, the best jewellery pieces are the ones you barely think about because they work with everything.“That masculine pinky ring, the piece you feel genuinely naked without,” says Sheridan-Taylor. “These are your foundations and once you have them, everything else you add becomes intentionally more considered.”From layered chains to everyday hoops, here are the jewellery essentials worth investing in.1. A FINE CHAIN NECKLACEEvery jewellery collection starts with a chain.As Sheridan-Taylor says, the best necklaces are the ones that feel personal – pieces worn so often they become part of you.“A chain with an initial pendant, a friendship necklace, jewellery that sits on your body in a way that if it weren’t there you’d feel the absence immediately,” she says, “that’s a staple.”She’s also a fi rm believer in layering. “The power of three varying chain necklaces, like a herringbone, paperclip or box chain, all worn together […] instantly adds individuality and charm.”The key is subtle variation: different lengths, textures and histories combined together rather than looking overly matched.2. EVERYDAY HUGGIE OR HOOP EARRINGSWhen it comes to earrings, simplicity tends to be the best investment.“I love a stack,” says Sheridan-Taylor, “two, three, four tiny gold hoops in a row can be completely understated and effortlessly cool.”Because earrings sit closest to the face, she describes them as “the most communicative piece of jewellery you own”. They frame the face, shift proportions and can completely alter the feel of an outfi t.Rather than sticking rigidly to matching pairs, she recommends embracing asymmetry.“Mismatched earrings, one slightly more than the other, is a wonderful move,” she says, “practically speaking, if you ever lose one, you’re already ahead.”3. DIAMOND OR MINIMALIST STUDSAlongside hoops, a classic stud remains one of the most versatile pieces you can own.Fine diamond studs are a great alternative “if you want something a little more precious,” says Sheridan-Taylor, who sees them as the jewellery equivalent of fl awless tailoring – understated but chic.They’re also the easiest everyday option,
WOMANSWAY.IE 23STYLEBy Lara Owenworking equally well with denim and eveningwear.“Sometimes the earring does all the talking and the rest of the outfi t is smart enough to let it,” she says.4. LAYERED BRACELETS WITH PERSONALITYBracelets, unlike necklaces, need to work around real life.“They have to be practical in a way necklaces and earrings don’t,” SheridanTaylor explains, particularly if you spend all day typing at a keyboard.Rather than overly rigid bangles or cuffs, she prefers fi ner chain bracelets and pieces that feel collected over time.“What I love most is bracelets that tell a story – an armful of narrative.”This season, she’s especially drawn to delicate beaded styles mixed with gold. “Small coral, turquoise, different natural stones combined with gold […] they bring warmth and something unexpected to a classic stack.”That said, statement cuffs still have their place. “[Right now] I’m wearing a huge resin vintage Seventies cuff,” she says, “it takes on the role of armour.”5. A CLASSIC WATCHDespite most of us always having a phone on us, Sheridan-Taylor fi rmly believes watches still matter.“To me, a watch is jewellery […] It says more about who you are than almost anything else on your body.”Her preference leans vintage and timeless rather than trend driven. “Heavy chunky men’s watches […] serve that nonchalant boyfriend feel,” she explains, while “tiny little watches are adorable and add that elegant fi nish to any look.”She also encourages people to think beyond buying new. “Changing the strap on an inherited watch is one of the simplest and most transformative things you can do,” she says.As for smart watches? Sheridan-Taylor blunty says, “unless you’re at the gym […] they are really not for grown-ups.”6. A SIGNATURE RINGFew jewellery pieces become as emotionally charged as rings.Sheridan-Taylor notes that the most valuable pieces are rarely the most expensive. “An investment in jewellery is never purely fi nancial. It’s emotional.”She wears her mother’s gold wishbone ring every day. “I think about her every single time I put it on,” she says, “that is my investment.”Whether it’s a pinky ring, signet ring or a simple gold band, the best rings become deeply personal – the sort of piece that feels strange to remove.7. ONE STATEMENT PIECEOnce the foundations are in place, every jewellery collection needs one standout item.That might be a sculptural pair of earrings, an antique pendant, a bold vintage cuff, or simply a piece of jewellery you wear every day without thinking about it, becoming a second skin.Sheridan-Taylor also suggests reworking pieces you already own. “Antique cuffl inks transformed into bespoke earrings. An unworn pendant reset into a statement ring.”In her view, these one-off adaptations are often the most stylish pieces of all. “Nobody else has them. Nobody else ever will.”And ultimately, that’s what great jewellery basics are really about – not ontrend perfection, but personality. WW Lynott Jewellery 3 Layer Stacker Ring €45Jigsaw T-Bar Necklace €145Rixo Salene Cuff €225 Rosefield Octagon XS Duotone Gold €159Missoma Beaded Gemstone & Pearl Bracelet €112Monica Vinader Pear Diamond Stud Earrings €239Astrid & Miyu Molten Hoops €110
24 WOMANSWAY.IE A dermatologist and sun-care expert break down which SPF you should be buying.Lowdown on SPFBy Lara OwenS unscreen used to be viewed as an essential only for beach days – but over recent years it’s become clear that it’s one essential product to incorporate into your skincare routine.But now we’re becoming more clued up on SPF, knowing the difference between mineral and chemical formulas can feel complicated and confusing.Here, experts break down the real differences between mineral and chemical SPF – and what you should pick when it comes to protecting your skin and preventing premature ageing.WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MINERAL AND CHEMICAL SPF?At their core, mineral and chemical sunscreens work in completely different ways.“Chemical filters work by absorbing UVA and UVB rays so that your skin cells don’t have to,” explains skincare expert and managing director of Ultrasun, Abi Cleeve.“Mineral – or physical – filters work differently, creating a barrier on the skin so that UV rays find it harder to penetrate and cause damage.”Dermatologist Dr Nora Jaafar says that mineral sunscreens typically use ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to “reflect and scatter UV radiation at the skin’s surface,” while chemical formulas convert UV rays into heat, which is then released from the skin.In other words – one absorbs, the other deflects.WHICH IS BETTER FOR ANTI-AGEING?When it comes to preventing wrinkles, pigmentation and loss of elasticity, the type of SPF matters far less than how you use it.“UVA rays are the primary driver of premature ageing,” explains Cleeve, noting that they penetrate deeply into the skin and are present year-round – even on cloudy days.
BEAUTY4Sun Protection Factor brands to try1>> Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 €602>> Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF50+ €153>> Ultrasun Tinted Face Fluid SPF50+ €36.504>> La Roche-Posay Anthelios AntiShine Sun Protection Invisible SPF50+ Face Mist €17.50 WOMANSWAY.IE 25By Lara OwenWhile both types of SPF – mineral and chemical – protect from UVA and UVB rays, chemical sunscreen often needs to be reapplied more regularly than mineral sunscreens.This is because chemical fi lters can degrade as they absorb UV rays, whereas mineral fi lters are more photostable – though they are more easily rubbed off through physical abrasion than chemical SPF is.Depending on your lifestyle – whether you rub your face more for example – can help determine what formula is best for you.WHICH SPF SUITS YOUR SKIN TYPE?Another dependent factor on the SPF that is best for you may be down to your skin type.For sensitive or reactive skin, mineral sunscreens are often recommended. “They are generally better tolerated […] because they are inert and less likely to sting or irritate,” says Jaafar.However, they’re not without drawbacks. Traditional mineral formulas can leave a white or grey cast on the skin, particularly on medium to deeper skin tones – although newer tinted versions have improved this signifi cantly.Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, tend to be more cosmetically forgiving. Their lightweight, transparent fi nish makes them easier to wear daily, especially under makeup.Cleeve also points out that full mineral formulas can sometimes feel heavier on the skin.“A physical barrier can prevent the skin from cooling naturally, which can trigger reactions like prickly heat in sensitive skin,” she explains.HOW TO APPLY SPF PROPERLYMineral or chemical – even the best sunscreen won’t work if it’s not applied correctly.“SPF should always be the fi nal step of skincare and applied before makeup,” says Jaafar. This allows it to form an even protective layer on the skin.Cleeve recommends applying it at least 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure, ideally before leaving the house.Makeup with SPF can be a helpful addition, but shouldn’t be relied upon alone. “It’s typically applied far too thinly to deliver the protection level shown on the label,” Cleeve says.For top-ups throughout the day, SPF mists are perfect – especially over makeup – but should be seen as a supplement rather than a replacement for your initial application.WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU PICK?So both mineral and chemical SPF can offer effective protection when used correctly, and both can play a role in maintaining healthy, youthful skin.“Neither is categorically better, and the ‘mineral good, chemical bad’ narrative is an oversimplifi cation,” explains Cleeve.Both mineral and chemical SPFs have differing pros and cons, and some say mineral sunscreens are the more ecofriendly choice, as they use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less harmful to aquatic life than chemical fi lters like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene, which could be worth bearing in mind if you’re heading into the sea.In reality, the best sunscreen is the one you’ll actually use every day. Texture, fi nish and how it feels on your skin all play a role in that consistency and protecting your skin.“A formula you’ll actually use consistently will always outperform one that sits on the shelf,” Cleeve says. WW1234
COMPETITION26 WOMANSWAY.IEWIN A FABULOUS GETAWAY TO WATERFORDTo enter, please answer the following question:What river does Dooley’s Hotel overlook?HOW TO ENTEREmail your answer by July 6 to: [email protected] including your name, address and telephone number and labelling your mail ‘The Visit Waterford Competition’This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. Winners’ names may be published. The editor’s decision is fi nal.One lucky reader will enjoy an unforgettable overnight escape for two at Dooley’s Hotel, a welcoming threegeneration family-run hotel in the heart of Ireland’s oldest city. Overlooking the River Suir, this charming hotel is the perfect base from which to explore all that Waterford has to offer.Your prize also includes a luxurious afternoon tea at the House of Waterford, served on elegant Wedgwood fi ne bone china, followed by a fascinating guided factory tour where you’ll discover the artistry behind the worldfamous crystal.To complete your getaway, enjoy a visit to the tranquil Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens in nearby Tramore, a unique and beautifully designed attraction inspired by the life and travels of one of Ireland’s most intriguing writers.Plan your holiday in Waterford with visitwaterford.com. T&Cs: Over 18s only, no alternative, subject to availability at time of booking. Coastline at Ballyduane Cove, Co Waterford
BEAUTY WOMANSWAY.IE 27BEAUTYSHELFCarissa Casey on some of her favourite new beauty launches.HYDRATION BOOSTBefore an event or a big night out, I love to give my skin some extra glow with a really hydrating mask. Irish brand Skingredients just launched two amazing products which I’m absolutely loving. The Eye-Light Eye-Bright Arbutin Under Eye Pads €35 do an amazing job of refreshing tired eyes while the HydraHit Instant Facial Mask €9 gives serious radiance in about 15 minutes. Both products are Korean inspired and packed with skin-loving ingredients. Visit skingredients.com.BLUSHING BEAUTYI’m a huge fan of the Irish brand KASH Beauty and it’s well worth checking out the new Soft Suede Blush range €19 and the K16 Dual Ended Complexion Brush €20. Blush is certainly having a moment in the makeup world and the Soft Suede packs a serious punch and has great staying power. The brush is fab for applying and blending in. Highly recommend. Visit kashbeauty.com.NEW FROM TRINNYNever one to rest on her laurels, Trinny London has launched the Lip Reset kit that includes a Lip2Defi ne liner at €28 and Pro-Collagen Lip Oil €30. The liner has a creamy texture while the lip oil delivers a lightweight, glossy fi nish. Combine they do a pretty good job of plumping out my lips. Visit trinnylondon.com. WWVisit kashbeauty.com.SUN PROTECTIONWhile we ought to be wearing sunscreen all year round, we need to be extra careful in the summer when we tend to be outdoors more. I use sunless tanning and sit in the shade as much as I can. I’ve recently being using The Ritual of Karma Self-Tanning Foam €25.90 from Rituals which smells divine and gives me a lovely sunkissed glow. The range also includes a Sun Protection Stick SPF 50 €19.90, a Foaming Sun Protection SPF 50 €20.90and an After Sun Ice Shower Gel €10.90. Visit rituals.com.While we ought to be wearing need to be extra careful in the as much as I can. I’ve recently Carissa Casey on some of her favourite
COMPETITION COMPETITION28 WOMANSWAY.IEA LUXURIOUS ESCAPE AT THE IMPERIAL HOTELTo enter, please answer the following question:In which Irish city is The Imperial Hotel located?HOW TO ENTEREmail your answer by July 6 to: [email protected] including your name, address and telephone number and labelling your mail ‘The Imperial Hotel Competition’This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. Winners’ names may be published. The editor’s decision is fi nal.WinWoman’s Way has teamed up with The Imperial Hotel Cork to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a luxurious Stay, Spa & Sip escape for two, which includes an overnight stay for two at The Imperial Hotel Cork, breakfast in Helena’s Restaurant, a signature cocktail each in Fitzgerald’s Bar and a 50-minute spa treatment per person at Escape Spa.Step into the heart of Cork City this summer with a stay at one of the city’s most historic and elegant hotels. The Imperial Hotel Cork is inviting guests to slow down, switch off and indulge with its luxurious Stay, Spa & Sip experience, combining boutique accommodation, mellowing spa relaxation and vibrant cocktails in the stylish surroundings of this historic gem.Located on Cork’s iconic South Mall, The Imperial Hotel has been welcoming guests since 1816 and remains one of the city’s best-known landmarks. Just moments from Patrick Street, the English Market and Cork’s bustling cultural quarter, the hotel blends historic charm with contemporary luxury, offering an ideal base for a summer city break. Visit imperialhotelcork.com.T&Cs: Available Sunday to Thursday only. Subject to availability.
BEAUTY WOMANSWAY.IE 29By Lara OwenIf your eyeshadow seems to vanish the moment you open your eyes, or your eyeliner looks heavy or at some points disjointed, chances are you’re working with hooded eyes.The good news, however, is that with a few clever makeup tweaks, this eye shape can look lifted and bright.According to New York-based makeup artist Laura Geller, “it’s all about adjusting your placement and technique to work with your eye shape, not against it.”So, here’s how to master eye makeup for hooded eyes, according to an expert.WHAT ARE HOODED EYES?“Hooded eyes are when the eyelid has less visible space because the skin folds over the crease of the eyelid,” explains Geller.The main challenge, she says, is “it can make eyeshadow disappear and liner look heavier than intended”.GET THE EYESHADOW PLACEMENT RIGHT“I always recommend applying a slightly deeper shadow just above your natural crease. This way, the colour stays visible when your eyes are open.”Think of this as subtly creating a new crease – one that sits slightly higher than your natural fold.“Lean into earthy tones like taupes and browns to add depth without overwhelming the eye area,” she says.Blending upwards – rather than outwards – is also key to creating lift.KEEP YOUR EYELINER UNDERSTATEDHeavy liner can quickly overwhelm hooded eyes, so keeping it pared back is key.“A tight line along the upper lash line following the natural shape of your eye is your best bet,” Geller says when it comes to incorporating liner. “This will bring back defi nition without taking up too much lid space.”For an extra brightening trick, she suggests switching up what you apply on your waterline.“Don’t underestimate the power of a beige liner on the lower waterline – this instantly brightens and makes the eyes look bigger and more refreshed.”FOCUS ON LIFT, NOT DRAMAIf your goal is bigger-looking eyes, piling on eyeshadow or liner is not the answer, and can often have the adverse effect. Geller recommends focusing on what she calls the “three Es”: eyeliner, eyelashes and eyebrows.“Fill in your brows to frame the face, add a tight line of liner along the upper lashes for defi nition, and fi nish with mascara to open everything up,” she explains.The overall effect should feel lifted, effortless and crucially minimal – rather than anything heavy or overly sculpted.GO FOR MATTE OVER SHIMMERWhen it comes to formulas, there are no hard rules. “I like to use a mix,” says Geller. “Matte shades are great for creating shape and defi nition, especially just above the crease and right at the base of the eyelid.”Shimmer isn’t off-limits, but it should be used carefully as it can often emphasise texture on eyelids, highlighting wrinkles and creases. WWEYE MAKEUPfor Hfi ded EyesA makeup artist reveals clever tricks that can make your eyes look lifted and bigger.Natasha Denona Mini Eye Sculpt Palette €29.90Charlotte Tilbury The Classic Eyeliner Pencil in Classic Brown €25Morphe M332 Medium Rounded Blender Eyeshadow Brush €11.50Urban Decay 24/7 Eye Pencil in Beige Flag €25Anastasia Beverly Hills Mini Modern Renaissance Eye Shadow Palette €33.50
30 WOMANSWAY.IEBy Hannah StephensonCOSYCRIME“I struggled with the word ‘cosy’ but in the end I decided not to mind because it’s a whole genre that’s happened as a result of the great (Richard) Osman.“Weirdly, I think Agatha Christie was the greatest, went out of fashion and is now back to being the greatest, and those of us who love her are so pleased there’s now a demand for books like hers, by that I mean classic English whodunits.”There is some similarity between Vine’s fi ctional radio host and himself, he admits.with a crossbow, but the tale also weaves in the subjects of radiation poisoning, coercive control and the death of a child. The cosy element is the idyllic setting in Sidmouth, Devon, where Vine, who is married to journalist Rachel Schofi eld, spent many happy summers when their two daughters were young.“I was always thinking, ‘Wouldn’t it be great to have a decent murder here?’”Many authors don’t like the term ‘cosy’ crime, but Vine doesn’t mind it.When radio and TV presenter Jeremy Vine came off his 6ft-tall penny-farthing bike near his home, he never anticipated doctors would fi nd an issue with his heart.“Stupidly, I went over some grass and there was a divot and I fl ew over the handlebars and thought, ‘I’m not going to survive this’. I was knocked out, but I didn’t suffer any great longterm effects.“But when they took me to A&E they gave me all these scans and said, ‘The only thing you need to worry about is that you’ve got a tiny bit of calcifi cation in your heart’.“It’s the classic thing where someone has an accident and then you discover something else. So I then thought, I’m going to look after myself a bit better.”The accident happened two years ago and the BBC Radio 2 presenter and host of the eponymous Jeremy Vine show on Channel 5, who turned 60 last year, is more careful about his wellbeing.“I started taking statins, lifting weights and being more serious about cycling to work. It’s weird, isn’t it, if falling off my penny farthing has given me an extra 10 years of life.”He has tried to eat well for the last decade, he says. “I’ve tried to give up chocolate, which is very diffi cult because I love chocolate. If I go to Pizza Express I would probably order a salad. Is that bad? It’ll probably buy me an extra day or two. But if I get to about 82, I’m having pizza every day.”In between his broadcasting work, he has found time to write Turn The Dial For Death,the second mystery in his cosy crime series featuring radio host-turned-amateur sleuth, Edward Temmis.NEW BOOKThe story opens with a doctor who is found dead in the woods, shot through the heart TV and radio presenter Jeremy Vine discusses wellbeing and books.“One of my listeners called up and said that social media is the new asbestos. I thought, that’s a brilliant line”
WOMANSWAY.IE 31By Hannah StephensonBOOKS“There’s a performance element, a bit of curiosity, an ability to concentrate and a shortened attention span when things aren’t holding your interest.“Because of the politics of the radio station, he’s doing this late-night talk show and he knows the listeners love it, but he never knows whether he’s fully appreciated. That’s not based on me at Radio 2, by the way. The bosses are always nice to me.”Vine has himself been the victim of crime over the years. He was beaten up as a student and has been the victim of stalkers, he recalls.These days, he doesn’t go on social media as much as he once did because he thinks it’s taken a turn for the worse.“I maybe tweet twice a day whereas I used to tweet 30 times a day. I’m on Instagram much more which is a lot more holistic and a lot more gentle.“One of my listeners called up and said that social media is the new asbestos. I thought, that’s a brilliant line. It (social media) just ends up with lots of people insulting each other. It’s basically replaced fi ghting in pubs, as far as I can tell.”With his radio and TV work, he has to keep abreast of current affairs and says that he is constantly topping up his knowledge through different news items – and occasionally loses his way.“The classic is where you have two guests who are roughly the same age, maybe two 30-year-old women or 60-year-old men and you don’t know which one is which and you’ve got two names.”There are also people who appear on programmes as part of a misunderstanding, which can throw a curve ball, he says.“I remember a guy on the Today programme years ago who arrived and he was on the line speaking about how he was able to play a tune by putting his hand under his armpit. So, they said, ‘Can you just play some notes for us?’ and he did, though not very well.“It turned out he was the wrong guest and was actually on (the programme) to talk about the Asian fresh food business market, but he went along with it.”INTERVIEWINGThere are occasions, he admits, when he gets nervous interviewing senior politicians or VIPs, which he thinks is a good thing.He recalls meeting Rachel Reeves when she was Shadow Chancellor and she had decided that she wasn’t going to talk about economics, but wanted to talk about herself as a person.“The offer that we had from the Shadow Treasury team was that she would come in and play me a game of chess, because she was a teenage chess prodigy. So I had this strange thing of playing chess with Rachel Reeves in the studio. She was pretty amazing. She completely smashed me.”A world away from that chess match, Reeves returned to the studio recently and Vine wondered if, given the diffi cult business of government, she would have been broken by it all – but she wasn’t.“I was just wondering how I’d fi nd her and I must say she looked to be in really good spirits.”He’s already fi nished his third book in the series and confesses that he’s really interested in true crime.“I think the reason we love cosy crime is it makes it somehow more bearable, because when you get into true crime and watch those documentaries, it’s shocking what people do to each other.”Vine gets up daily at 4.30am to write 400 words before going to work at Channel 5. “The classic piece of advice that Richard Osman gave me is to write something every day, so you’re always pushing forward.” He has had approaches for his own crime novels to be adapted for screen, he says.“Some producers have knocked the fi rst book (Murder On Line One) into a TV script which they are trying to sell. But TV at the moment is cash strapped so that means I think we’ll be fi shing around for a while – but I think it will happen.“We did have a really fi rm offer last year, then that fell through, so I’ve learned not to really trust in it.”For now, he has no thoughts of slowing down. “I just love what I do – and when you love what you do, it’s quite easy.” WWTurn The Dial For Death by Jeremy Vine is published by HarperCollins.Jeremy Vine and his wife, Rachel Schofi eld
32 WOMANSWAY.IEBy Hannah StephensonFrom morgues and murder scenes to Hollywood and heartbreak, bestselling crime writer Patricia Cornwell opens up about the long-awaited Scarpetta adaptation starring Nicole Kidman, the trauma that shaped her life and why understanding darkness has made her fi ercely vigilant about the world around her.PATRICIA CORNWELL’SDARK ARTvery special quality as a human being.“I don’t feel that everybody deserves to play Scarpetta. She’s a role model. She is a crusader. There are so many people that wish they knew her in real life.“I remember one time I rolled up to a scene of a serial murder, and one of the victim’s relatives came out to me and said, ‘Thank God, Scarpetta has arrived to help us!’ And I said, ‘If only that were true, but it’s just little old me’.“That’s how people feel about her. They want her there when they’ve lost a loved one. So not everyone deserves to play that, but Nicole Kidman does.”Cornwell, 69, recalls her introductions to Hollywood’s fi nest in her memoir, True Crime, a life story which is just as colourful as her fi ction.The Miami-born author has witnessed autopsies, is more than familiar with the morgue, learned how to fl y helicopters because Lucy, Scarpetta’s tech-savvy niece, is a qualifi ed helicopter pilot, has learned to scuba dive and been on fi ring ranges to try out the latest weaponry used by her imaginary killers.This attention to detail is also evident in her memoir, as she recalls her unhappy childhood gone since the award-winning American writer’s fi rst Scarpetta novel, Postmortem, was published in 1990, the fi rst to win all major crime awards in a single year.The author, who has sold over 120 million books worldwide, had originally wanted Jodie Foster to play Scarpetta – she got a fl at refusal many years ago – and had lost all hope until fi ve years ago when her good friend, actor Jamie Lee Curtis, who has a production company, got things moving.“Nobody was chasing after her (Scarpetta) in Hollywood any more and I’d given up. I thought, this is never going to happen. So I thought, great, Jamie, you go ahead, give it a shot. You could make it a cartoon at this point and I’d be grateful, but I really didn’t think it would happen,” Cornwell recalls in her Southern twang.Yet it did. The Scarpetta TV series adaptation starring Nicole Kidman as the forensic sleuth and Curtis as her feisty older sister, Dorothy, can now be seen on Amazon Prime Video – Cornwell has a cameo appearance – and a second series is in the making.She says of Kidman: “She’s a dream. I knew she’d be wonderful before I met her. She has a There was a time, not so long ago, when bestselling thriller-writer Patricia Cornwell thought her fi ctional forensic pathologist Dr Kay Scarpetta would never come to the screen.So many pitches, talks, scripts and A-list actors interested in the role – Demi Moore and Angelina Jolie included – have come and
WOMANSWAY.IE 33By Hannah StephensonBOOKSwith neglectful parents. Her father, a lawyer, walked out on Christmas Day 1961, ignoring fi ve-year-old Patricia’s desperate attempts to cling to his leg.Lonely and often considered a nuisance, she would make up imaginary friends like Mr Owl. Her mother, she recalls, was largely absent, either physically or mentally.“I only have maybe one or two images of her from the fi rst almost seven years that I was in Florida. I have tons of images of my father, but almost none of her, because she was mostly in her room depressed, or she would go somewhere or go see my grandmother, or she was just absent.”After her father left, her mother moved with Patricia and her brothers Jim and John to an evangelical community in Montreat, North Carolina, down the road from famous preacher Billy Graham and his wife, Ruth – who became a parental fi gure in Patricia’s life.The children pretty much looked after themselves as their mother suffered from depression, spending time in a psychiatric hospital, at which point they were fostered by an abusive woman who bullied and terrifi ed her.Overcoming harsh obstacles gave her the ambition to become a journalist and an award-winning police reporter, but she quit her job after being raped by a city offi cial – which she never reported for fear of it ruining her career – when she was working for the Charlotte Observer.“I was so afraid of running into this person who would follow me sometimes in his car.”She went on to work at the offi ce of the Chief Medical Examiner in Richmond, Virginia, which would give her plenty of material for her books.The public perception may be that she likes to go to the morgue, to watch autopsies, but she notes that there has been a price to pay.“You cross a line, a boundary you can never go back to. It’s a double edge because on the one hand if the things that I write about were made up and didn’t really happen in life there would be no point in wallowing in such morbid mire.“But these are real things. I want to know the terrain, what’s under me and that includes the serial killer around the block, or if you get a bad feeling on an elevator don’t get on it, or that the worst thing you can ever do if someone tries to abduct you in a parking lot is go with them. Have them kill you right there, because what they’re going to do with you somewhere else is so much worse.“I am an AI intelligence whack job full of morbid tales of what might happen to you if you’re not careful.”She’s not scared, she says, but she is vigilant. “I know instantly if something is dangerous. I’ve got a database that has created its own algorithm that makes connections of ‘The scaffolding is going to do that’ or ‘I didn’t like the way that person looked’ or ‘What was that noise?’ I know all the nuances of what will kill people.”She avoids big crowds which, if an emergency happens, you couldn’t get out, “especially these days where people open fi re everywhere”, and you wouldn’t catch her in a deserted area where there are no eyes or ears.She still has bodyguards for protection at public events, but notes: “I try to be safe and smart within reason, but not crazy. I don’t have gun turrets and bullet-proof windows.”Over the years her private life has been picked at and probed. She married her English professor Charlie Cornwell in 1980, but divorced him nine years later and went on to meet and marry Dr Staci Gruber, associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, who she lives with in Boston. They have been together for almost 22 years. What’s the secret?“You have to have someone that is like your soulmate and best friend and somebody devoted to helping you be your very best, as you are to helping them do the same. Plus, Staci’s never boring. She’s the smartest person I’ve ever met.”Cornwell has a new Scarpetta novel coming out next year and agrees that with all the technology available, there are more hurdles for the writer.“The hardest thing is creating crimes where someone doesn’t get caught in fi ve minutes. I have become the artful tech dodger, where I have to fi gure out a way to dodge around why cameras didn’t pick it up and why a cell signal is not being emitted.”Satellites, hologram technology, AI, avatars and fakery are all challenges.“You either start setting things at an earlier date and don’t deal with the here and now – because it was a lot more fun writing books in the Nineties than dealing with all this stuff – or you’ve got to fi gure out a way to take it right on the nose. It really puts me through my paces.” WW“I am an AI intelligence whack job full of morbid tales of what might happen to you”True Crime by Patricia Cornwell is published by Sphere. Patricia Cornwell at the premier of the Amazon Prime Video series ScarpettaThe cast of the Amazon Prime Video TV series Scarpetta
34 WOMANSWAY.IEBy Prudence WadeFrom Douglas Stuart’s highly anticipated new release to a perfect picture book called Princess Pete, there’s something for everyone.6 LGBTQ+NOVELS reading list this Pride Month…1. John Of John by Douglas Stuart (Picador)John Of John is set to be one of the biggest releases of 2026, as the follow-up to Douglas Stuart’s Booker Prize-winning novel Shuggie Bain. There are two Johns in his latest book: the religious father who lives on a fi ctional island in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, Pride Month is celebrated in June, providing an opportunity to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community. Reading is a brilliant way to do so – and there are plenty of releases this year either from LGBTQ+ authors, or dealing with themes that might help you understand the community a bit better.And for people who identify as LGBTQ+, these books might help you feel that bit less alone – or learn something more about someone else.Here are some books to put on your
WOMANSWAY.IE 35By Prudence WadeBOOKSand his son, who goes by Cal, who has returned home from art school.Cal hasn’t told anyone he’s gay, and his secret becomes increasingly oppressive – something which is put into even sharper focus early in the book, when the reader discovers that John is also secretly gay. It’s a fi erce and tender novel about secrets and identity, and is an Oprah’s Book Club pick.2. Do Ask, Do Tell: Queer Life, Love And Culture Laid Bare by Lotte Jeffs and Stu Oakley (Bluebird)Podcast hosts and writers Lotte Jeffs and Stu Oakley – who published The Queer Parent in 2023, which was billed as the ‘groundbreaking toolkit for LGBTQ+ parents’ – wrote Do Ask, Do Tell in 2025, and now the paperback version is being released with a sleek new look.With humour and knowledge, Jeffs and Oakley answer a huge range of questions on the gamut of being LGBTQ+. Whether you’re already part of the community, or an ally looking to fi nd out more, it’s a useful handbook for any questions people might not have been sure who to ask.Oakley wrote on Instagram: “We called the book Do Ask, Do Tell because silence helps no one and we believe good faith questions are not an attack, they’re an opening.”3. Andromeda by E.S. McLeod (Bantam)Andromeda is the fi rst adult novel by E.S. McLeod, who pens YA books under the name Ella McLeod. It puts the spotlight on the story of Andromeda from Greek mythology in a retelling that is described as a ‘timeless Black, queer love story’.Beautiful princess Andromeda lives a cushy life in Aethiopia, until her mother defi es the gods and is given a deadly ultimatum. Poseidon, the god of the seas, sends his servant – shape-shifter Ceto – to deal with Andromeda, and what starts as a spiky relationship between the two women soon turns into something closer and more intimate.4. First Summer by Ekin Oklap (Summit)First Summer is the debut novel from International Booker Prizenominated translator Ekin Oklap – and as the title suggests, it’s set throughout one long, hot summer.It’s a classic coming-of-age tale, as the teenage narrator watches a new girl, Clara, move in across the street. As the summer wears on, the two girls, who are on the cusp of adulthood, grow closer and closer. There’s another, dreamier storyline running alongside this one: of space explorer Nadia, who is the protagonist of a children’s book series loved by both girls, who travels around a distant fi ctional galaxy with her companion, Rosa – which helps the narrator understand what’s going on in her own life.5. The Castle Of Stories by Matt Cain (Pansy)Author and broadcaster Matt Cain returns with his latest novel, set in the rolling hills of Tuscany. It follows Adam, a 45-year-old from Manchester who moves to Italy with his boyfriend Theo, after unexpectedly inheriting a crumbling farmhouse and castle.Things are soon complicated by the arrival of Adam’s kids, and the discovery of some long-buried family secrets. In 2025, Cain was awarded an MBE for services to LGBTQ+ culture – The Castle Of Secrets is the fi rst book released by Pansy, an independent LGBTQ+ publisher founded by Cain and his husband, Harry Glasstone.6. Princess Pete by Zoey Allen, illustrated by Frenci Sanna (Walker Books)For a positive and uplifting picture book about the LGBTQ+ experience, look no further than Princess Pete. Written and illustrated by transgender creators Zoey Allen and Frenci Sanna, it’s perfect for readers aged three and up.It follows the adventures of Pete, a child who loves lots of different things – from making music with boys to having races with girls. Pete was born a boy, but doesn’t always feel like one, nor do they necessarily feel like all the girls: they’re just Pete. It’s a simple yet beautiful tale about self-acceptance, accompanied by joyful illustrations. WW
36 WOMANSWAY.IEFathers on FilmThe role of fathers is pivotal, in different ways for sons and for daughters, yet the nuances of that pivotal role remain oddly unexplored in movies and television. So, in honour of Father’s Day (June 21) here are a few honourable mentions.There is a grainy but full version of the 1999 almost Irish fi lm, This is My Father, free on YouTube. A Quinn family effort, it’s written and directed by Paul, shot by acclaimed cinematographer Declan and stars Aidan. It is about an American man (James Caan) who goes to Ireland to fi nd the truth about his father. What he fi nds is not a saint or a villain, but a man who had the misfortune of having his life, and so much of what followed, defi ned by one moment. It is quiet and lovely, but have the tissues handy. Early depictions of separated fathers showed that they can only be truly heroic if their ex-wife is a monster. Kramer vs Kramer (€4 rental) gave us Dustin Hoffman's slow-burn transformation into a devoted dad, but it needed Meryl Streep to abandon her family to make it work. Mrs Doubtfi re (Disney+) with Robin Williams in a dress and a Scottish accent, is enormously enjoyable but operates on the same logic: Dad is wonderful, Mam is unreasonable, somebody has to be wrong.There are many reasons to like Margo Has Money Troubles (Apple+), starring Elle Fanning and Michelle Pfeiffer, and one of them is that despite a somewhat fraught relationship, Margo’s separated parents are fundamentally decent people. Nick Offerman plays ex-wrestler Jinx, who was a pretty terrible father but is trying to make up for it now that Margo is grown, has a baby of her own and needs him.It has that same nice generosity of spirit as Richard Linklater’s Boyhood (€4 rental) in which Ethan Hawke plays Mason Sr, a fl awed but loving father, and Little Miss Sunshine (Disney+) in which Richard Hoover (Greg Kinnear) really, really tries.Phil Dunphy (Ty Burrell) in the comedy classic Modern Family (Disney+) is a dope, but he is a genuinely warm and present father, Chifi ZoneÁine O’Connor’s pick of what to watch this fortnight.Dustin Hoffman in Kramer vs. KramerAidan Quinn in This Is My Father Ethan Hawke in Boyhood
WOMANSWAY.IE 37ENTERTAINMENTMidlife MoviesOnce, on a chaotically hilarious work trip to Hungary, one of my fellow travellers clearly didn’t approve of me. And the poor cow, whom I suspect was labouring under the illusion she was Virginia Woolf, took every opportunity to express this disapproval. At one point, during a jokey conversation about middle age in which she was not involved, she inserted herself to ask how old I was. I was 36. She said, “Well, by any standards 72 is elderly, so I think it’s safe to say you’re already in middle age.”The debate about when middle age starts is an ever shifting thing but for me it felt like it had offi cially begun, some time after I was 36, when I started to feel that I couldn’t keep putting things off to one day. Where possible, one day was either now or to be put in motion. Retirement Plan (RTÉ Player), the Oscarnominated Irish animated short, written by John Kelly and Tara Lawall, expresses the sentiment beautifully. For just seven sharp minutes Domhnall Gleeson voices Ray, a man who fully plans to do everything – from organising his photos, to travelling, swinging and microdosing – “when I retire”. And the more time passes, the more he believes he will do, “when I retire”. It’s really well observed and simply but cleverly illustrated and animated.There is a kind of similar sense in the movie Sideways (Disney+), one of Alexander Payne’s earlier fi lms. Admittedly Miles (Paul Giamatti) again, one who tries his best to fi nd a way between what he thinks a father should be and how he wants to be a father. And what his kids and wife decide.I’m not always a huge fan of Steve Carrell’s comedy, I feel that he doesn’t know when enough is enough. But that’s a question of taste and undoubtedly part of Carrell’s huge success is that he plays characters who have more to them than just comedy. In Rooster (Sky and Now TV), he plays an almost comically needy father to an adult daughter, but he knows he is needy, acknowledges it and tries to be better.And while DTF St. Louis (Sky and Now TV)isn’t technically about fatherhood, it’s a kind of murder mystery series based around a really only comes to the conclusion after an entire road movie of a story, but the journey makes for one of my favourite fi lms.Miles is a depressed, unsuccessful writer and thorough wine snob who goes on a trip through Napa Valley with his soon-to-bemarried, not-quite-reformed ladies man, best friend, Jack (Thomas Haden Church). I do love a story with fl awed characters and these two sure are that, but the fi lm works so well. It’s funny, poignant and ultimately decides that life doesn’t happen while you’re waiting for one day. interesting depiction of masculinity. On the surface it’s about neighbours, played by Jason Bateman, David Harbour and Linda Cardellini, whose sexual entanglements end in a death. The investigation into the death, by an old-school detective (Richard Jenkins) and his polar opposite detective (Joy Sunday), forms the structure of the series. But the richness of it is in the relationship between Bateman and Harbour’s characters, the depiction of male loneliness, friendship and the way that sex can be the only intimacy that some men half understand. I thought that element of it in particular was really well done and hopefully will become less unique. WWPaul Giamatti and Thomas Haden-Church in SidewaysJason Bateman and David Harbour in DTF St. LouisDomhnall Gleeson voices Ray in Retirement Plan
38 WOMANSWAY.IEBy Florence SparkeFictionGive Me Everything You’ve Got by Imogen Crimp is published in hardback by Bloomsbury PublishingThe heat oppresses in Imogen Crimp’s Give Me Everything You’ve Got, pouring off the page as budding fi lmmaker Ruby spends a scorching couple of weeks at the country home of Ellen, a successful director who Ruby can’t believe has noticed her. Also staying at the house is Ellen’s enigmatic 20-year-old daughter Lara. Ruby and Lara develop an intense relationship that is often sweet, but leaves Ruby in constant uncertainty. The novel uses Ruby’s attempts to write a ‘story about women’ in the screenplay she is working on to explore the nuances between female sexuality in our media and in reality. Crimp succeeds in creating an increasing claustrophobia and paranoia at Ellen’s sprawling estate, as both Ruby and the reader start to doubt whether either Ellen or Lara really care at all about her. Give Me Everything You’ve Got is evocative, gripping, and at times, verging on horror.Rat Race by Callum McSorley is published in hardback by Pushkin VertigoFollowing on from Squeaky Cleanand Paperboy, Scottish writer Callum McSorley concludes his trilogy of novels featuring DCI Alison McCoist as she tries to clean up the streets of Glasgow and put some of its least desirable inhabitants behind bars. And the good news is that, if you’re a fan of the previous two, then there’s everything you could hope for in Rat Race – remarkable characters, crazy happenings and a lead investigator who cuts through the modern-day PC-dominated environment to achieve her aims. McSorley is already a well-loved burgeoning talent, and Rat Race will go a long way to cementing his place among a fascinating new breed of gritty and funny crime writers.Honey by Imani Thompson is published in hardback by The Borough PressImani Thompson’s Honey promises to be a dark, fastpaced and provocative novel following Yrsa, a PhD student at Cambridge. Idling her way through life and trying to crack the back of her research, Yrsa has an itch that needs scratching and fi nds a little something to liven up her life. It just so happens the thing that tickles her fancy is murder, but within reason. As Yrsa explains her reasoning behind why she is doing what she is doing, there is something else ticking away in the background. Something that would be handy on the pages of a novel. Rather than there be a nice conclusion, with Children’s bookThe Dangerous Pet Lover’s Guide To Sea Monsters by Lindsay Hurst, illustrated by Alice McKinley, is published in paperback by Bloomsbury Children’s BooksThis whimsical book with colourful illustrations will go down an absolute treat at bedtime. It’s an incredibly tongue-in-cheek guide for how to successfully make a sea monster your pet – a follow-up to a similar guide about dragons from 2025. It comes complete with a packing list and closer look at the grumpy and chaotic world of underwater monsters – there are playful tips for how to care for and play with these creatures: including what to feed them, and to always, always let them win at whatever game you’re playing (as they tend to be sore losers). Dynamic and fun illustrations make this an excellent romp. WWBfi ks5 new books to read. everything tied off in a fancy bow – but you might be left wondering what happened and why. A fun read, that felt a bit frustrating by the end.Non FictionEat Bifi er: A Story About Guts And Food by Lydia Pang is published in hardback by Chatto & WindusFood holds memories: that’s why there are so many successful food-related memoirs, like Crying In H Mart by Michelle Zauner and Takeaway by Angela Hui. Now, creative director Lydia Pang – who has previously worked with big brands like Nike – is offering her own take on the format. Eat Bitter takes its name from a Chinese proverb about enduring hard times to enjoy sweetness, and that’s a theme throughout the book. Pang, who is half Hakka and grew up in Wales, tracks the story of her life through a recipe for each chapter – from feeling like an outsider in a predominantly white town, to achieving success in New York but losing herself in the process, to returning home to Wales and struggling with her fertility. Pang crafts an engaging story – it’s particularly interesting when she dives into the history of her Hakka ancestors. While at times slightly overwritten, it’s defi nitely worth a read.can’t believe has noticed her. Also staying at the house is Ellen’s enigmatic 20-year-old daughter Lara. Ruby and Lara develop an intense relationship that is often sweet, but leaves Ruby in constant uncertainty. The novel uses Ruby’s attempts to write a ‘story about women’ in the screenplay she is working on to explore the nuances between female sexuality in our media and in reality. Crimp succeeds in creating an increasing claustrophobia and paranoia at Ellen’s sprawling estate, as is evocative, gripping, and at times, verging on horror.Rat Race by Callum McSorley is published in hardback by Pushkin VertigoFollowing on from and Callum McSorley concludes his trilogy of novels featuring Children’s bookThis whimsical book with colourful illustrations will go down an absolute treat at bedtime. It’s an incredibly
WOMANSWAY.IE 39ENTERTAINMENTDisclosure DayCert 12AClose Encounters of the Third Kind was a seminal movie of my childhood. The fam and I queued around the corner from the Savoy cinema on Dublin’s O’Connell Street to watch the latest movie by this up-and-coming wunderkind, Steven Spielberg. The film didn’t disappoint; the idea, the emotion, the spectacle and that tonal music lodged in the psyches of several generations.Close Encounters of the Third Kind follows an ordinary Indiana electrician, Roy Neary, played by then Spielberg favourite Richard Dreyfuss, who becomes obsessed with a mysterious vision after a UFO encounter, eventually joining a group of other ‘chosen’ individuals drawn to a remote mountain where humanity makes first contact with alien life. Everyone thinks Roy is nuts and his obsession takes a toll on his family and entire life, but it turns out the government is very much aware of and actively concealing UFO activity. A secret scientific team, led by a French researcher has been quietly investigating encounters and coordinating the eventual first contact at Devils Tower.The film is fundamentally about wonder and belief – the idea that some truths are too vast for official institutions to contain, and that ordinary people can be vessels for extraordinary revelation. The government secrecy element is portrayed, mostly, as more about controlling the situation than malicious suppression.Disclosure Day is not a sequel to Close Encounters, but there are trace elements of a spiritual sequel. It’s Steven Spielberg's first new film since 2022's The Fabelmans, and marks his return to the UFO/alien genre after a 20-year absence. Emily Blunt plays Margaret Fairchild, a meteorologist who suddenly finds herself unable to speak during a live broadcast. She then starts speaking what sounds like gibberish, much to the bafflement of everyone except cybersecurity specialist Daniel Kellner (Josh O’Connor) who realises, “It's math.” Daniel comes to understand what is happening, it’s not much of a spoiler to say that it is less about advanced algebra and more about extraterrestrial life, and pushes for full disclosure.But as the tagline asks: “If you found out we weren’t alone, if someone showed you, proved it to you, would that frighten you?” and, with the help of Eve Hewson, Colin Firth, Colman Domingo and Elizabeth Marvel, that is what the film thrashes out in a way. It is as its heart a sci-fi thriller which explores humanity's reaction to undeniable proof of nonhuman intelligent life, blending suspense with questions about truth and fear.Special effects have come a long way since they blew my very young mind in the Savoy in 1977 so, unsurprisingly Disclosure Day is a remarkable spectacle – the IFI in Dublin will be showing it in 70mm – but it also raises ever more timely questions about truth. WWFilmReviewBy Áine O’ConnorEmily Blunt in Disclosure DayClose Encounters of the Third Kind
40 WOMANSWAY.IEBy Lisa SalmonFAMILYHOLIDAYSComedian Jason Manford says the three or four holidays he takes with his six kids every year is precious family together time.
TRAVEL WOMANSWAY.IE 41By Lisa Salmonin, and then I’ll have the summer off with the kids, and we’ll be off to Menorca, probably for a week somewhere with some friends, and then we do quite a bit here in the UK as well.“We love our holidays as a family – that’s our time to spend together.”Where do you like to go on holiday?“We do Portugal, we do Thailand, we do weekend trips. I love going around Europe – Scandinavia – Oslo and Copenhagen. We drive quite a bit too, so we’ll get there on a ferry and then just drive through Europe and come back through Spain and France.“My sons like to do a lot of going around different theme parks – we love a theme park. So there was one in Germany we went to recently – it’s our little hobby.“And then further afi eld, we’ve been to the west coast of America, Mexico this summer, the Caribbean a couple of years ago, and to New Zealand for two weeks. I did Barbados many years ago, and we went to the Maldives years ago too – that was pretty amazing.“So yeah, I love travelling.”What’s on your travel bucket list?“I’d like to do Australia at some point, maybe mix it with a stand-up comedy tour and I’d like to have a couple of days off and do a gig, another couple of days off and do a gig and do it like that. That’s one of my ambitions.”You’re bringing comedy to the high seas – what does that involve?“We run Manford’s Comedy Club all over the country, putting on comedy in different towns and places, and bringing people the best of the British comedy circuit to get them laughing. And then this opportunity came up to do cruises.“I’ve worked for P&O myself as a comic, J ason Manford crams stand-up comedy tours, TV hosting, acting, musical theatre and being a dad to six children into an incredibly jam-packed life. But he’s got a great way of keeping on top of it all – he makes sure he enjoys three or four family holidays every year.The comedian and actor, who has four children with his fi rst wife and two with his second, admits his busy working life – he regularly does stand-up comedy shows and is appearing in a musical at Manchester Opera House in June – means he can’t be there for his kids all the time, but holidays are their very precious family together time.Here Manford, 44, explains what travelling means to him – and how he’s even putting his nationwide comedy clubs on cruise ships so both audiences and other comedians can get a taste of travel while having a laugh at the same time…Is travel a priority for you and your family?“It’s the fair deal. I’m not going to be there for every school run, for every teatime or to read stories every night, but what we will have is three or four great holidays a year, and make the most of it.”With kids aged between eight and nearly 17, how do you entertain them all on holiday?“It can be tough! We’ve never been kids’ club parents – we look for a padel court or go for a walk or go swimming, that’s easy enough.“But I’m really strict about being on holiday – phones are away, laptops are away, and we play a lot of games – there’s a lot of Uno going on.“It’s very diffi cult trying to entertain everybody, but obviously we’re getting to the point now where the older kids are trying to decide whether they come on holiday with you. “We’re at that precipice, but it’s fi ne – you’ve just got to stay consistent and say if you want to come, come, or go and stay at your friend’s for a week.”How do you fi nd the time for holidays?“This is my job, so I’ll just fi nd time. The tour’s just fi nished so I’ve got a couple of weeks off now before the musical kicks and looking at the beautiful theatres they’ve got on these ships, I just thought ‘Hang on a minute, there could be something we could do together here’ – and here we are. Across 35 cruises to France, Spain, Italy and the Norwegian fjords, 70 comedians handpicked by me will perform 140 shows, giving guests the chance to experience top-tier live comedy as part of their holiday.”Will you be going on any of the cruises yourself?“Not on this occasion, no. We’re working something out, it might be something we do at the end of the season, or some time in the future – but you’ll soon know, it’ll be advertised everywhere!”Which comedians will be performing on the cruises?“They’re Live at the Apollo level, brilliant comics who are going to make everybody proper laugh. Not old-fashioned comics, really brilliant, the sort of comics who’ve supported me at Live at the Apollo and on tour, some that are doing Saturday Night Live and Mock the Week and 8 Out of 10 Cats. It’s that level – the best of the circuit.“It’s a great way of fi nding out who’s the next level of comics coming through, who are going to be the ones to know. Comics, we come in generations – in my generation there was Micky Flanagan, John Bishop etc, and now there’s a new generation of comics coming round. As far as the live comedy circuit, they are the best.”Was it hard to get comics to agree to perform on a cruise?“No, it’s not too much of a sell – do you fancy a week on a cruise and you get to do a few gigs as well?“What’s lovely about these gigs, and I’ve done it myself before, is actually being on the ship with the audience. You get to see them the next day at breakfast, and they come over and say ‘Oh, thanks for last night’, and you almost become part of the network of what’s going on on the ship. It’s a lovely experience for comics to have.“This is one of those gigs that for us it feels like a real privilege to be involved with – it feels like a reward for how hard we’ve worked.” WW“I’m really strict about being on holiday – phones are away, laptops are away”
42 WOMANSWAY.IEDISCOVERING ST LOUISRebecca Black heads to America’s heartland, St Louis, Missouri for 48 hours.After checking into the 21C Museum Hotel, a beautiful transformation of an historic YMCA building, fi rst on my agenda is visiting the Gateway Arch. Completed in 1965, it’s the tallest monument in the United States, and the world’s tallest manmade arch at 192 metres, said to be built in tribute to westward expansion.Inside, I climb into one of the compact tram carriages to ride to the top of the monument and I’m treated to panoramic views across St Louis, from the Old Courthouse to Busch Stadium, home of the local baseball team, and tall offi ce blocks on one side.On the other side, there are views of the wide (famously brown) waters of the Mississippi River – the second-longest river in the US – and I recall childhood memories reading about Mark Twain’s Tom Sawyer playing on the banks of that very waterway. Many travellers use the city as a jumping-off This is the type of city where people don’t just say ‘thank you’ when you hold the door open for them, but instead, “I appreciate you” with a broad smile.It’s my fi rst time in the Midwest, as well as my fi rst time in St Louis – around 300 miles southwest of Chicago. The city is home to some of the most beloved stars – from actor John Goodman to rapper Nelly and poet TS Eliot. It’s also said to be the place where Tina Turner became a star – and the city that gave the world Budweiser beer.St Louis boasts a long history, from its founding as a French fur-trading post on the banks of both the Mississippi and the Missouri rivers, developing into the gateway to the west, and later a manufacturing hub. Hosting the 1904 World’s Fair and the Olympics in the same year contributed towards the grandness you can feel across the city – the second biggest in the state of Missouri, after Kansas City. Ilove your trousers,” a complete stranger smiles at me. It’s a compliment I hear about my bold papaya print ‘pants’ again and again as I make my way round the city of St Louis, Missouri. Through the beautiful Botanical Garden, at the 21c Museum Hotel St Louis, and in the queue for the Blues City Deli.Welcome to the friendliness of the Midwest, a very different America to the busy coastal cities often dominated by international tourists.
TRAVEL WOMANSWAY.IE 43point to visit Twain’s hometown of Hannibal.Another historic site is the AnheuserBusch Brewery, where the lager Budweiser was born and has been produced since the late 19th Century. I join the Clydesdale VIP Experience tour – focusing on the horses that were introduced to Budweiser adverts back in 1933, to celebrate the repeal of Prohibition. I meet one, called Rock On, who starred in a viral Super Bowl advert earlier this year.I then head to Ted Drewes, an old-school ice cream shop on Route 66 which passes through St Louis.As well as serving hot fudge sundaes and ice cream sodas, it is most famous for its ‘concrete’ drinks – so thick in consistency they can be held upside down.Concretes are based on frozen vanilla custard, and expand into a host of fl avours and toppings. I sample the Muddy Mississippi, a delicious concoction with chocolate chips, peanut butter and cone pieces. For those seeking a quieter moment, the Missouri Botanical Garden spans almost 80 acres, including a dome Climatron and a Japanese Garden.The Walls off Washington, meanwhile, is a stunning outdoor mural walk, including a piece of work called Lift As You Climb by Brooklyn-based artist Derrick Adams, part of his broader work’s themes on black American life, including community, progress and supporting others while striving for personal success.It’s also worth doing a driving tour of the Central West End, nearby Route 66, stopping off at the the stunning Cathedral Basilica of St Louis, as well as Clementine’s Naughty and Nice Creamery to sample its gooey butter cake ice cream.Asides from ice cream, Shaw’s Coffee on the Hill offers amazing fi lled bagels, alongside a host of baked treats including strawberry crumb muffi ns and kolaches, a fi lled sweet bread roll.Meanwhile Salt + Smoke in the Delmar Loop is a celebration of St Louis-style barbecues. I start the experience with toasted ravs, a local speciality, which, according to legend, were created when a ravioli was accidentally dropped into hot oil instead of hot water, resulting in a crunchy fi lled pasta experience.I try the beef brisket along with a variety of their sauces, and white cheddar cracker mac (a spin on mac ‘n’ cheese and a very hearty feed).Back in the car, I refl ect on the friendliness and hospitality of the locals with our driver Pat, himself a third-generation St. Louisan.He also points out, “People don’t leave” this city, with a smile, adding that even those who do, tend to fi nd themselves returning home after their exploration, in order to raise their own families where they grew up.Even after just a few days in the city, I was starting to understand that pull. WW“This is the type of city where people don’t just say ‘thank you’ but instead, ‘I appreciate you’ with a broad smile”A ‘concrete’ at Ted Drewes on Route 66View from Gateway Arch in St Louis, MissouriThe queue for lunch at Blues City Deli in St Louis
44 WOMANSWAY.IEBy Lauren TaylorThe Devil Wears Prada 2 star is back with another series of Tucci In Italy – and it includes one area you might not know, Le Marche.STANLEY TUCCI’SSECRET ITALYStanley Tucci in Sicily
TRAVEL WOMANSWAY.IE 45By Lauren Taylorof Senigallia and the limestone cliff-fl anked Conero Riveria for a unique type of handdived wild mussels called moscioli.“It’s exciting to be able to fi nd a really simple dish of mussels, but those mussels are very specifi c, where they grow, how they’re cultivated, the fl avour of them and what they’re made with – I’ve never had a dish like that before.”Tucci visits a beachside restaurant called Da Emilia in the Bay of Portonovo, opened by the current owner’s grandmother in 1929, and still serving her exact recipe of spaghetti with moscioli.“I’d been to that coast, but I’d never gone to that little place where there were Tucci touts it as “one of the most beautiful and cultured regions of the country, with a cuisine to match, that even now is still ripe for discovery”, in the show.“There are places that you never thought existed [in Le Marche],” says The Devil Wears Prada 2 star.With 180km of coastline of beautifully clean beaches, dramatic mountains and Renaissance towns, the region offers a side of Italy where locals far outweigh tourists, and authenticity and preserving history is at its heart.APERITIVO CULTURETucci visits the southern Le Marche town of Ascoli Piceno to discover their aperitivo culture, inland Macerata for an ancient recipe for layered pasta dish made with sweet wine, the coastal high-end area Continued overleaf >>Beyond the crowds of Tuscany and the postcard perfection of the Amalfi Coast lies Le Marche – a quietly beautiful corner of Italy where Renaissance towns, wild Adriatic beaches and extraordinary regional cuisine have captivated Stanley Tucci in the latest season of Tucci in Italy.With Italy’s hotspots well and truly trodden by tourists, fi nding corners of the country that are still a mystery to travellers can seem rare. But according to actor Stanley Tucci, Le Marche should be on our radar.So far, the north-central region on the Adriatic coast, and its unique cuisine, has largely escaped international attention – so now may be the time to visit.The Academy Award nominee and Emmy and Golden Globe winner is back with the second instalment of his Disney+ and National Geographic show Tucci In Italy – visiting fi ve new regions of the country and navigating its culinary past and present.While the fi rst series, which dropped in 2025, focused on the likes of Tuscany and Lombardy, the second allowed ItalianAmerican Tucci, whose family have roots in Calabria, to explore places he’d never been to before.This time in the fi ve-part show, the 65-year-old visits Naples and Campania, Veneto and the large islands of Sicily and Sardinia – as well as Le Marche – familiar to Italians but far less known to the rest of the world.“One of the most beautiful and cultured regions of the country, with a cuisine to match”Panoramic view of beautiful Amalfi on hills leading down to coast, Campania, ItalyEmilia’s signature dish: spaghetti with moscioli, a local variety of mussels
46 WOMANSWAY.IEall these restaurants in a row, and where we found the woman who makes this dish that her grandmother made.“Their grandmother was the fi rst one to build a little restaurant there after the war, and that was like life changing to me – as it was for that entire community, because they were very poor.“And, eventually, now Le Marche is one of the wealthiest regions in Italy and one of the best looked after.”The food of a country is often wrapped up in centuries-old stories, hand-medown recipes and fascinating contextual history, and for Tucci, eating really is “the best way” to learn about a destination.“[Filming this series] just solidifi es the fact that I love Italy so much and that I’ll never stop being interested in that food. And through that food, for me, it’s the best way for me to learn about that country.”It’s clear how much the country of his heritage means to him. “I just want to show the complexity of Italy and the diversity of it, because Italy is not a huge country, it’s long and narrow and it sits like a sitting duck, in a weird way, surrounded by Eastern Europe, Greece, Africa and the Middle East.“All of those people, over thousands of years, invaded Italy, and gave what they created – what today is Italian cuisine.”DIVERSITYSo while many people head to Italy to tuck into the famous pizza of Naples, pasta of Rome and the Fiorentina steak of Tuscany, for Tucci, “The most important thing is to show the diversity, to show the complexity of the culture through the food.“But also geographically,” he adds. “The topography of Italy is so incredibly diverse, from Sicily to Trentino-Alto Adige, it’s like two completely different countries, not only because of the invasions and the ever-changing borders, but because of the topography and the climate.”In Veneto, Tucci wades into the culinary debate over the origins of tiramisu, while in Sardinia he looks into the relationship between food and longevity.Meanwhile in Campania, Tucci meets “All of those people, over thousands of years, invaded Italy... created – what today is Italian cuisine”Senigallia’s beachThe beach of Portonovo in the Adriatic Sea in Italy
TRAVEL WOMANSWAY.IE 47a Michelin-starred chef cooking ‘spaghettino alle vongole fujute’ – meaning ‘runaway clams’ (you can only taste the aroma – the clams are an illusion). It’s a pasta with tomatoes, olive oil, garlic and parsley, cooked with his special ingredient – large rocks from the sea – served in the dish.“Now you can’t even conceive of such a thing, and yet, it’s a dish that’s been around probably for centuries,” says the actor.If he could eat any pasta dish in Italy again it would be “that one”, says Tucci. “I swear it was incredible.” WWAll episodes of Tucci In Italy S2 are on Disney+ and on National Geographic UK.Stanley Tucci in LazioStanley Tucci in AbruzzoConero Riviera, Le Marche
48 WOMANSWAY.IETRAVELis packed with culture and roving mariachi bands (guarantee a sighting by grabbing a table at one of the city’s many mariachi restaurants, like Casa Bariachi). On Sundays, from 8am until 2pm, certain roads are closed to traffi c so people can explore the city by bike. Take in street art and murals in the city centre, snacking as you go (think tacos and birria), or visit Bosque Los Colomos for trees, a picnic and a peek at its tranquil Japanese garden.3 Monterrey, MexicoMonterrey may just have the most spectacular view of all the host cities at its stadium. From stands at the Estadio BBVA, you can see the colossal bulk of the Cerro de la Silla (Saddle Mountain), part of Mexico’s Sierra Madre mountain region, which is an ideal spot for keen, experienced hikers to check out too. Otherwise, the state capital of Nuevo León is known for being a bit of a business hub, with a huge Gran Plaza where you can experience the city’s buzz, while spotting landmarks like the grand 19th-Century Government Palace and courthouse. Enjoy the rainbow-coloured buildings and cafe hop in the historic Barrio Antiguo quarter, order yourself some goat cooked over coal and visit urban green space Fundidora Park, which is set in the grounds 1 Kansas City, USAThere’s Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas City, Kansas. The two straddle the state line, with FIFA World Cup matches happening at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Chiefs. This midwestern city is rife with barbecue joints (order Kansas specialty, burnt ends; crispy, fatty, charred cubes of smoked beef brisket in barbecue sauce) and jazz bars (try Lonnie’s Reno Bar, and for a bit of background, the American Jazz Museum). And don’t miss the ginormous shuttlecock sculptures at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (free entry).2 Guadalajara, MexicoIt’s the capital of Jalisco, the Mexico state famous for its tequila. Historic Guadalajara We take a look at some hidden-gems tournament locations that deserve a visit.WORLD CUP CITIESof a former steel works – they’ve left the blast furnace in situ.4 Houston, USAIf you are even remotely interested in NASA and the Space Race, then Space Center Houston is unmissable, with a new immersive show called ‘The Moonwalkers’ narrated by actor Tom Hanks, alongside tram tours (that take you past astronaut training areas) and a permanent collection of space suits. Elsewhere, try to catch a show at the Miller Outdoor Theatre, visit endless art galleries (from the Rothko Chapel to The Orange Show and the Menil Collection), explore the bars and vintage shops of the Montrose neighbourhood and then sprawl out on the grass at Buffalo Bayou Park. WWFIFA World Cup host city MonterreyArrowhead Stadium in Kansas City
WOMANSWAY.IE 49TRAVELinterior doesn’t try to compete but rather complements it with a relaxed elegance.Our room’s terrace also overlooked the lake and I was able to take in the sheer size of the property. It is huge but it has made the most of every inch, creating corridors of beautiful artwork, a book-lined library, lounge areas, dining spaces, so many places to relax that even though it was busy that Friday evening, it never felt crowded.We went fi rst to the Espa Spa, again generously proportioned, with a hydrapool, sauna and steam room, and enough space to feel like it was virtually empty. The aches and stiffness on the car journey eased, I had a lovely massage and chilled a while in the relaxation area, gazing out at the shifting colours of the sky refl ected in the lake spread out before me. There are numerous restaurants and we ate at The Brasserie which was buzzing with both guests and locals. The food was excellent and it felt nothing like the usual rather stiff hotel dining experience, and more like we’d discovered a beloved eaterie. By the time we’d fi nished, darkness was falling and, much as I love a nightcap, the call of the gorgeously soft bed with its crisp white linens back in the room proved too much.After a sound sleep, we made our way down to breakfast which I think was a highlight of an already lovely stay. We had a corner table at the window, a copy of The Irish Times and all the time in the world to enjoy a proper cooked My fi rst and indeed lasting impression of The Europe Hotel and Resort in Killarney was the extraordinary feeling of spaciousness. The reception area is expansive with views out onto the lakes and an uncluttered minimalist style decor that feels immediately restful.We arrived after a fi ve-hour drive in late afternoon sunshine. The azaleas were in full bloom and the light glistened on the water and I found myself amazed anew at the sheer beauty of the landscape. The hotel’s Carissa Casey pays a visit to the The Europe Hotel and Resort, a haven of light, space and luxury on the lakes of Killarney.LUXURY AT THE LAKESbreakfast. Maybe it’s a sign of advancing years but that’s pretty much my idea of heaven. A few hours later we drove back down the long avenue feeling rested, relaxed and thoroughly rejuvenated. WWVisit theeurope.com.The Europe Hotel and ResortSpa relaxation areaThe library
50 WOMANSWAY.IEBy Sam Wylie-HarrisThe interior designer shares pro tips for stylish place settings and entertaining at home.HOSTINGSummeras bringing a sense of quiet luxury into the home. “All the beautiful glasses with the white base,” referencing the footed wine glasses. “And the striped white glass [tumblers], I just love that… it evokes summer.”colour schemes for tablescaping.“For me at home, it’s always white and green. But it really depends on somebody’s home… if it’s all greys and monochromes, you could go for navy and white, which is really lovely in the spring and summer.”Or just have all white, she suggests, and then have bits of red. “And also remember, food is a colour on the table; so you can always go more neutral and have food as a colour.”To help create a Hoppen-inspired presentation of your own, she’s designed a new home collection with Marks & Spencer, featuring design-led pieces with tableware at the heart of the collaboration.The range features a soothing colour palette of white and sage green stoneware in the mix; with glassware, nibble bowls, linen napkins and serveware which she describes Hosting summer dinners and planning the fi ner details – from curating the tableware to candlelight and fl owers – is an art in itself, with an aesthetic appeal to delight the senses.“For me, entertaining is all about the music, the lighting, you know… the drinks you have, the combination of friends you have around, and making people feel really comfortable at home,” says award-winning designer Kelly Hoppen.“It should feel like you’re at home. It shouldn’t feel that it’s all very stiff. And that’s the beauty of entertaining at home – celebrating the people who are there.“And I’m always very good at putting people together,” says the 66-year-old, who splits her time between London and the Cotswolds with her long-term partner.“I love doing the table layout, so I know who’s sitting with who, because I know about the conversations people are going to have.”Obviously, food is important, says Hoppen, but believes “you can serve up anything” and if you’ve got everything else right, “you’re going to have a fun time”.Speaking about her love of entertaining, Hoppen says since they moved a few years ago, they’ve downsized from a dining table which seated 30 to less than half the size.“We now have a beautiful table in our kitchen which seats 12, and that’s perfect… nice, small and cosy.”Famous for her signature neutral palette, “my favourite colours are taupe, white, black and grey”, which have graced some of the most famous celebrity homes and hotels in the world, the super-host has two favourite M&S X Kelly Hoppen Wooden Long Serving BoardM&S X Kelly Hoppen Contrast Side PlateKelly Hoppen