FROM THE EDITOR
May arrives with a gentle shift into early summer, and Plymouth begins to glow with longer days, warmer evenings, and a renewed appetite for making the most of our surroundings. The city feels alive — from coastal walks and buzzing waterfronts to quiet green spaces in full bloom.
We also explore some of the top wedding venues across Devon and Cornwall, showcasing stunning countryside estates, elegant coastal settings and unique locations perfect for unforgettable celebrations.
Alongside this, you’ll find more stories, features and local highlights celebrating the people, places and experiences that make our corner of the world so special.
As always, I’d love to hear from you. Your thoughts and suggestions help shape this magazine and keep it closely connected to the community it serves. You can reach me at editor@oracle.uk.net, and I’ll always do my best to respond.
Dylan
www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk 01752 691007
Creative direCtor
Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net
design editor
Dylan Thain editor@oracle.uk.net
aCCounts info@oracle.uk.net
sales managers
Myles Lockwood
Modern vs Traditional Kitchens: What’s Right for Your Home?
For homeowners across d evon and Cornwall, choosing a new kitchen often begins with a simple question: modern or traditional? i n reality, the answer is far more complex, something the team at k F k itchens, an award-winning independent studio based at Faraday m ill, p lymouth, understand well.
s pecialising in both traditional b ritish and contemporary German kitchens, KF Kitchens guide clients through a wide range of options, helping them create spaces that reflect not only their style, but how they live day to day. Their approach— recognised through national customer service awards—focuses on clarity, thoughtful design, and delivering a process that feels as considered as the finished space. Importantly, they also challenge
the idea that premium design must come with an unattainable price tag.
t he Craft and Flexibility of t raditional k itchens:
Traditional kitchens, such as those offered by b urbidge and Kitchen Makers, are defined by craftsmanship, detail, and timeless design. s haker-style and in-frame doors create a sense of depth and character, while painted finishes and natural materials bring warmth into the home.
A key advantage of b urbidge is its flexibility.Their paint-to-order service allows any kitchen to be finished in virtually any colour, giving homeowners full creative control. In addition, doors can be made to bespoke sizes, ensuring each kitchen is tailored precisely to the space rather than restricted by standard dimensions.
This level of customisation allows for a truly individual result, whether that’s a classic country kitchen or a more refined, contemporary interpretation. s tyles such as b rackenbury demonstrate how traditional design can evolve, offering cleaner lines while still retaining a handcrafted feel.
m odern g erman k itchens:
Modern kitchens from Nolte take a different approach, focusing on precision engineering, functionality, and clean, architectural design. Known for German manufacturing quality, Nolte kitchens are built for durability and consistency.
Practical innovations play a key role. Anti-fingerprint door finishes help maintain a clean appearance in busy homes, while taller 900mm base units create a more ergonomic working height,
typically around 950mm overall, improving both comfort and usable storage space.
Attention to detail extends throughout the cabinetry. Nolte offers a wide range of door finishes, carcass colours, and internal cabinetry options that are all colour-matched, creating a cohesive, highend look inside and out.
w hile often associated with minimalism, Nolte also produces shaker-style ranges such as w indsor Lack and Torino Lack, blending classic design cues with modern materials and construction.
h igh- e nd d esign w ithout the h igh- e nd p rice t ag:
One of the biggest misconceptions in kitchen design is that quality comes at a premium beyond reach. In reality, both traditional and modern kitchens can be tailored to suit a range of budgets without compromising on design or performance.
b y focusing on intelligent design decisions and long-
term usability, KF Kitchens are able to deliver spaces that feel considered, highquality, and built to last, while remaining accessible to a wide range of homeowners.
a t ailored a pproach:
Ultimately, the right kitchen is one that works effortlessly for the people using it. w ith a focus on thoughtful design, attention to detail, and a customer experience that has earned national recognition, KF Kitchens help homeowners make informed, confident decisions.
a s an award-winning kitchen studio based in p lymouth, they continue to deliver bespoke kitchens across d evon and Cornwall, offering the very best of British craftsmanship alongside cutting-edge g erman design, at a level that may be more achievable than many expect. r
to transform your kitchen space, book a consultation in the kF kitchens studio, by email (enquiries@ kfkitchens.co.uk) or phone (01752 255022). You can also check out their website (www.kfkitchens. co.uk), and social media on instagram (@kfkitchens) or Facebook.
Tom Hussey Design & Build: Turning Vision into Exceptional Living Spaces
Tom Hussey Design & Build is a well-established and highly versatile construction and refurbishment company based in the South West of England, known for delivering highquality workmanship with a personal, client-focused approach. Founded by Tom Hussey, the business reflects years of hands-on experience across multiple areas of the building and maintenance industry, combining practical skill with a strong eye for design. Tom’s background, which includes working as a Maintenance Officer for Totnes Town Council, has equipped him with the knowledge and problem-solving ability needed to manage a wide variety of projects, from smaller home improvements to full-scale renovations. His return to running his own design and build company was driven by a passion for creating tailored living spaces and taking on new and rewarding challenges.
One of the key strengths of Tom Hussey Design & Build lies in its ability to offer a complete, end-to-end service. Clients are supported from the initial design phase right through to the final stages of construction, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. This allin-one approach removes the need to coordinate multiple contractors, allowing for better communication, consistency, and overall project efficiency. Whether it’s transforming an outdated property into a modern, functional home or reimagining a specific space to better suit a client’s lifestyle, the company delivers solutions that are both practical and visually appealing.
The range of services offered is extensive and covers nearly every aspect of domestic building and refurbishment work. From kitchen and bathroom installations to full home renovations, each project is approached with the same level of care and attention to detail. The company also specialises in conversions, helping homeowners make the most of their available space through thoughtful design and clever reconfiguration. In addition, Tom Hussey Design & Build
provides flooring installation, roofing services, and the fitting of windows and doors, all of which contribute to improving both the functionality and energy efficiency of a property. Outdoor projects are also a key part of the business, with work designed to enhance gardens and exterior spaces, creating cohesive environments that extend beyond the home itself.
What truly sets the company apart is its commitment to quality craftsmanship. Every project is carried out with precision and a focus on long-lasting results, ensuring that clients receive not only an attractive finish but also a durable and reliable one. Rather than applying a onesize-fits-all approach, Tom works closely with each client to understand their individual needs, preferences, and vision. This collaborative process ensures that the final result is tailored specifically to the homeowner, reflecting both their style and practical requirements. Throughout each stage of the project, clear communication and a hands-on approach help maintain high standards and build trust with clients.
Customer service is another area where Tom Hussey Design & Build excels. The business is known for being approachable and transparent, offering free, noobligation quotes that allow clients to explore their ideas without any pressure. This open and honest approach has helped to establish strong relationships within the local community, with many clients returning for additional work or recommending the company to others. No matter the size or complexity of the
project, the same level of professionalism and dedication is applied, ensuring a consistently high-quality experience from start to finish.
Operating primarily in Totnes, Plymouth, and the surrounding areas, Tom Hussey Design & Build combines local knowledge with professional expertise, making it a trusted choice for homeowners across the region. The company’s ability to adapt to different types of properties and project requirements further highlights its versatility and reliability within the industry.
With a strong reputation for quality, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction, Tom Hussey Design & Build continues to deliver outstanding results across a wide range of building and renovation projects.
For those looking to get in touch, Tom Hussey Design & Build can be contacted via their website at https:// thdesignandbuild.com/, by phone on 07462 966 093, or by email at thdesignandbuild@ hotmail.com. Also contact via WhatsApp through the website.
Shop Loca L
Boringdon hall hotel plymouth devon, pl7 4dp 01752 344455 | boringdonhall.co.uk info@boringdonhall.co.uk
Boringdon hall
boringdon Hall Hotel in Plympton, Plymouth, is a luxurious and historic manor house hotel renowned for its elegance, character and exceptional hospitality.
surrounded by beautiful countryside on the edge of Dartmoor, the hotel combines stunning architecture with modern comfort, creating a truly memorable experience for guests.
The award-winning restaurant offers beautifully crafted dishes using fresh local ingredients, while the peaceful atmosphere makes boringdon Hall ideal for romantic getaways, weddings and special occasions. boringdon Hall also offers one of the south west’s most unique luxury experiences, blending history, relaxation and contemporary style in an unforgettable setting.
Shapla Balti CuiSine
shapla Balti Cuisine in plympton, plymouth, is a welcoming and highly regarded indian restaurant known for its rich flavours and friendly service.
The menu offers a wide variety of freshly prepared curries, biryanis, and traditional balti dishes, each cooked with care and authentic spices. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it perfect for family meals or evenings out with friends. staff are attentive and professional, ensuring every guest feels valued.
with generous vegetarian options and consistently highquality food, shapla balti Cuisine delivers an exceptional dining experience that keeps customers returning time and time again.
shapla balti Cuisine also offers a delicious taste of authentic Indian cooking in a relaxed and friendly setting. Every dish is freshly prepared using quality ingredients and traditional recipes, bringing vibrant flavour to every plate.
The restaurant is perfect for both casual dining and special occasions, with excellent service and great value for money. whether dining in or ordering takeaway, shapla always impresses.
visit www.shaplabaltiplympton.co.uk or call 01752 343746.
Gladiators Storm Back to Defeat Scorpions at the Coliseum
The Plymouth Gladiators continued their winning momentum with an impressive 49-41 victory over the Scunthorpe Scorpions at the Coliseum on Saturday night, producing a superb mid-meeting turnaround before skipper Danny King and birthday boy Scott Nicholls helped guide the Gladiators to another deserved home success.
After a difficult start that saw the visitors edge ahead 14-10 after four heats, Plymouth responded in style with a determined all-round team performance that gradually swung the meeting firmly in the Gladiators’ favour.
Scunthorpe’s early advantage was largely built around a flawless display from Josh Pickering, who was sensational throughout the night, but the Gladiators showed their resilience to fight back immediately.
A vital 5-1 in Heat 6 from the impressive pairing of King and Joe Thompson levelled the scores at 18-18 and sparked Plymouth into life. Thompson continued his excellent form with a paid 11-point return, while King’s experience proved crucial in the key stages of the meeting.
From there, the Gladiators began to build momentum. Nicholls thrilled the home supporters in Heat 7 with a trademark sweeping outside move to take victory, while the Plymouth reserves battled hard throughout to keep the pressure on the visitors.
The decisive spell came in Heats 9 and 10 as the Gladiators turned a tied meeting into an eight-point lead.
Guest rider Alfie Bowtell made a superb start in Heat 9 before Ben Barker produced one of the rides of the night, storming around the outside of Michael Palm Toft to secure a crucial 5-1 for Plymouth.
Another maximum followed immediately in Heat 10 as King and Thompson
combined brilliantly once again to extend the Gladiators’ advantage to 34-26 and firmly put Plymouth in control of the contest.
Nicholls then produced one of the standout rides of the evening in Heat 11. After initially being shuffled back by the Scorpions pairing, the experienced former British Champion fought aggressively back into second place before launching a determined chase after Pickering in what proved to be one of the most entertaining races of the night.
The Gladiators continued to lead from the front in the closing stages, with Nicholls delivering again in Heat 13 by holding off Pickering for a superb victory to protect Plymouth’s advantage heading into the final races.
There was further drama in Heat 14 as Barker forcefully worked his way past Connor Mountain for another race win, with emotions briefly spilling over after the chequered flag in a sign of the competitive nature of the meeting.
Appropriately, Nicholls completed the job in Heat 15 on his birthday evening, taking the win ahead of Pickering while Barker backed up in third place to seal a deserved 49-41 home victory for the Gladiators.
Away from the action on track, supporters also joined together during the interval to celebrate Nicholls’ birthday with a special cake presentation, adding another memorable moment to an enjoyable night at the Coliseum.
Nicholls top scored for Plymouth with 12 points, backed up brilliantly by Barker’s 11+1 and Thompson’s excellent 10+1 haul, while Bowtell added a valuable 6+1 from his guest appearances as the Gladiators secured another important victory in front of their home fans.
Team manager Garry May praised the efforts of the entire side after the meeting, particularly the way the Gladiators
responded after a difficult opening spell.
“Yeah, it went well tonight,” he said. “We started struggling getting out of the gates, and then it all sort of came together at the end. We had a couple of 5-1s, but all the boys dug deep tonight.
“Ben, Joe… Joe had a good night as well. Anze is just getting used to the track.
“Tom beat the other number reserve, so that’s his job done.”
“Danny, I think, needs another pair of shorts because he nearly went through the fence!”
“But other than that, it was all good, a good night. We take eight points up there. I’d have liked a little bit more because Scunthorpe are really good, but it’s what I got, so I’ve got to play with it.”
There was also an encouraging display from Anze Grmek, who continues to adapt to British conditions and the unique demands of the Coliseum circuit.
“Yeah, it was alright. I like the track,” Grmek said. “I need to get used to the track a little bit.
“Need to find the right setup. I think I tried my best for sure. The speed was good. The speed was there, but I had no start, so we need to fix the gating.”
Despite the difficulties, the Slovenian youngster remained upbeat after gaining valuable experience around the Coliseum in challenging conditions.
“It was a completely new setup and a new track for me as well, so there was a lot to learn,” he added.
Grmek also stayed out after the meeting for additional practice laps to better understand how the bike and engine were performing around the circuit. Those laps helped reveal an issue with the engine itself, which has since been removed from the bike and sent away for further inspection.
More Than a Pet Shop: The Community Spirit of Bella's Pet Supplies
Bella's Pet Supplies first opened its doors in March 1999, founded by Keren Delamare and named after her beloved dog, Bella. Following her retirement, Keren wanted to ensure that one thing remained constant: the shop's commitment to serving local pet owners with genuine care, expert advice and a personal touch that is increasingly rare in today's retail landscape.
The latest custodian of Bella's is Nicki Milburn, who officially took ownership of the business on 23 December 2025. After spending 25 years working as a veterinary nurse, Nicki witnessed first-hand the changing nature of the veterinary industry, with many independent practices becoming part of larger corporate groups. While this brought some benefits, she often felt that the personal relationships between pet owners and professionals were becoming harder to maintain.
"Bella's is more than just a pet supplies shop; it's a real community hub."
When asked about her long-term ambitions for the business, her answer is immediate.
When the opportunity to become involved with Bella's arose, Nicki describes it as a genuine "this is it" moment. Although naturally nervous at first, the transition period working alongside Keren quickly put her at ease and confirmed that she was making the right decision.
Since taking over, Nicki has continued to build upon the welcoming atmosphere that has made Bella's such a popular destination for Plymouth's pet-owning community. Regular customers visit not only for the extensive range of products but also for the friendly conversations, expert guidance and familiar faces that greet them whenever they walk through the door.
Alongside running the shop, Nicki also operates a small clinic where she can assist with nail clipping, ear care and other minor pet health concerns. Drawing upon her decades of veterinary nursing experience, she is able to provide practical support and reassurance for owners who may be unsure about the best course of action for their pets. "In a world of increasing industrialisation and growing corporate control, Bella's will remain Bella's," says Nicki. "It's important that people feel the store is moving with the times, but also that it doesn't lose what makes it special."
For Nicki, Bella's Pet Supplies is far more than a retail business.
"It's the best thing I've ever done,"
she says.
"Whatever happens in this shop, it's got to keep that personal side to it." That personal approach is evident from the moment customers walk through the door. While large chain stores may offer convenience, Bella's offers something much harder to replicate: genuine relationships. During our visit, a returning customer entered the shop and Nicki immediately remembered what they had purchased previously. With another customer, her first question was simple: "Do you want to have a bit of a nosey around, or are you looking for something in particular?"
It perfectly summed up the philosophy behind Bella's. Every customer is welcomed as an individual, not simply as another transaction. It is this level of care that keeps people returning time and again.
Another major attraction is the shop's carefully selected range of pet food. Bella's stocks brands such as Nature's Way and Canagan, products that are often only available through independent retailers rather than major national chains. Nature's Way, in particular, has long been a popular choice among Bella's customers and is a local brand originating from Tiverton.
For pet owners, choosing the right food is one of the most important decisions they can make. High-quality nutrition supports healthy growth, strong immune systems, good digestion and long-term wellbeing. Just as people benefit from a balanced and nutritious diet, pets thrive when they are fed food made with quality ingredients and carefully developed recipes.
Many independent pet stores take great care when selecting the products they stock. Rather than filling shelves with whatever sells in the highest volumes, they often focus on foods they genuinely believe offer the best value and nutritional benefits. Independent retailers also take the time to understand the needs of individual pets, whether that involves managing allergies, supporting weight loss, addressing digestive sensitivities or simply finding a food that a fussy eater will enjoy.
This is one of the reasons many pet owners continue to trust independent stores. Advice is often based on experience and knowledge rather than sales targets. Staff get to know both customers and their pets, allowing them to recommend products that genuinely suit a pet's age, breed, lifestyle and health requirements. That level of personal service can make a significant difference, particularly for first-time pet owners who may feel overwhelmed by the vast number of options available.
Of course, food is only part of what Bella's offers. The shop is also stocked with a wide selection of treats, toys, accessories and everyday essentials. Nicki laughs as she recalls the countless occasions when dogs passing by have stopped outside and scratched at the window in the hope of being allowed inside. For many local pets, a visit to Bella's has become an exciting part of their routine.
Looking ahead, the future is bright. Nicki is gradually expanding the delivery side of the business, allowing customers across Plymouth, from PL1 to PL9, to have supplies delivered directly to their door. Plans are also underway for a new website that will showcase the shop's product range and provide customers with additional information about the business from the comfort of their own homes.
However, growth for growth's sake is not the goal. Nicki is determined to expand carefully and sustainably, ensuring that the qualities which have made Bella's successful for more than a quarter of a century are never lost. In an age where many businesses are becoming larger, faster and increasingly impersonal, Bella's Pet Supplies stands as a reminder that community, expertise and genuine care still matter. For Plymouth's pet owners, it is more than just a place to buy supplies—it is a trusted local institution built on relationships, knowledge and a shared love of animals.
what’s on
June 2026
south Devon
University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth 20th June
The Rin Tins have been keeping people dancing since their inception in early 2011 and since then the band has strutted from one stage to another playing high octane gypsy swing to the party hard masses.
with music that combines harmonies to swing jazz rhythms and pounding oompa beats, for the past 14 years The Rin Tins have been filling dance floors and festival tents across Europe. Includes a free swing dance workshop ran by 'Mad About swing' - get yourselves involved and have a go at swing dance! Tickets are free for the Dance workshop but must be ordered in advance, click here to confirm your place.
Evelyn shaw is a 17 year old A-level student living in Plymouth. Music has been a large part of her life for as long as she can remember. she uses it as a way to emotionally express herself and tell the stories that can’t be told with words.
Evelyn is most inspired by her personal experiences, such as relationships and her Christian beliefs. Her style of music is mostly inspired by indie folk music, such as that of Amélie Farron. she writes songs as they come to her, as an expression of inner thoughts and feelings.
The legendary Plymstock Festival is back for its fifth year, and this time we're bringing the party to a stunning new location near the breath-taking south Devon Coastline, just outside wembury, overlooking the Mew stone a truly unique coastal location!
Join the fun, make memories, and be part of a festival that's grown into a true highlight of the southwest! book your tickets now and get ready for a weekend packed with music, laughter, stunning views and unforgettable moments.
we are headlining KOREV as our main lager, born and bred in Cornwall.
Plymouth Yacht Haven, Shaw Way, Mount Batten 20th June
fter an incredible 2025, Plymouth boat Fest is back for 2026 — bigger, better, and bursting with maritime magic! Get ready for another unforgettable celebration of the sea.
This year’s festival will once again bring together maritime enthusiasts, families, and the local community for a weekend of nautical fun and discovery.
From exploring our city campus, to talking to your future lecturers, our open day gives you a flavour of life here at the University of Plymouth.
On the day, you'll get the chance to attend: welcome talks to introduce you to life at Plymouth, finance talks to help you understand student loans and managing money at university, subject-specific talks to find out more about your course and how you'll learn at university, drop-in sessions where you can see the amazing wave Tank in the Marine building, or simply go for a tour around the student Village and student Accommodation.
Plymouth City Centre, Plymouth,starts 29th June
Every match of the wimbledon Championships will be screened live on a state-of-the-art mobile screen on The Piazza.
Over 200 deckchairs will be set out in a specially enclosed viewing area, allowing visitors to relax and soak up the electric atmosphere. Entry is completely free, making it the perfect summer experience for tennis fans, families, and city centre visitors alike.
The Amphitheatre, Armada Way, Plymouth 13th June:
live at the amphitheatre
plYmstoCk Festival BY the sea
Langdon Barton Farm, Down Thomas, Plymouth 12th&13th June
undergraduate open daY
plYmouth Boat Fest
wimBledon on the Big sCreen
EDiTOr’S PiCkS...
All things weddings
Discover what the South West has to offer for your special day, from coastal views to historic houses, my picks aim to help you decide where to have your favourite day
With the arrival of the brighter days of late spring and early summer, many couples begin turning their thoughts to one of life’s most memorable milestones: their wedding day. planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many choices to make—from the dress and flowers to the venue and photographer. one of the most important decisions of all is choosing the perfect setting, the place where friends and family will gather and where those once-ina-lifetime moments will unfold.
Fortunately, those of us here in Devon are spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful wedding venues. From elegant country houses and rustic barns to coastal locations with sweeping sea views, the county offers
an incredible range of settings to suit every style of celebration.
Like most things weddings can be stressful, thats why sorting not just the venue but also a photographer can be pertinant for your big day. mike lister is a local photographer that captures genuine moments whilst offering professionalism on your big day.
Mikelisterphotography.co.uk
Of course, capturing those moments is just as important as the venue itself. A talented photographer can preserve the laughter, emotion, and atmosphere of the day so that it can be relived for years to come. In this feature, we take a look at some of the top wedding venues across Devon, along with a couple of excellent local photographers who know exactly how to turn those unforgettable moments into lasting memories.
Like most things, weddings can be stressful, which is why finding the right photographer is just as important as choosing the perfect venue. otem Photography specialises in capturing natural, genuine moments while bringing a calm and professional presence to your special day.
Otemphotography.co.uk
Boringdom hall
Plymouth, Devon
Nestled on the edge of Dartmoor, boringdon Hall Hotel offers one of Devon’s most atmospheric wedding settings. The historic manor combines grand Elizabethan architecture with luxurious modern interiors, creating a venue that feels both timeless and intimate. From elegant ceremony spaces
st. elizabeths house
Plypton, Devon
Located in the heart of Plympton, st Elizabeth’s House is one of Devon’s most elegant and intimate wedding venues. surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and peaceful countryside. with stylish ceremony spaces, exceptional dining, and boutique accommodation, st Elizabeth’s House creates a warm and
polhawn Fort
Torpoint, Cornwall
Perched dramatically above whitsand bay, Polhawn Fort is one of Cornwall’s most breathtaking coastal wedding venues. Combining historic character with sweeping sea views, the restored Napoleonic fort offers couples an exclusive and unforgettable setting for their special day. From intimate ceremonies overlooking the coastline
polurrian on the lizard
Mullion, Cornwall
Found on Cornwall’s dramatic coastline, Polurrian on the Lizard offers couples a breathtaking wedding setting overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Combining elegant interiors with sweeping sea views, the clifftop venue creates a romantic atmosphere perfect for both intimate ceremonies and larger celebrations.
deer park Country house
Honiton, Devon
Nestled within the Devon countryside, Deer Park Country House offers a luxurious and secluded wedding setting surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful landscaped grounds. The Georgian manor combines timeless elegance with modern comfort, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere for couples
to award-winning dining and a relaxing spa, boringdon Hall delivers a memorable experience for couples and guests alike, all while surrounded by the stunning countryside that makes Devon such a sought-after wedding destination. Its blend of history, luxury, and rural charm makes it an ideal choice for couples seeking a truly unforgettable celebration. www.boringdonhall.co.uk
sophisticated atmosphere for couples looking to celebrate their special day in a truly memorable location within south Devon. Its combination of refined elegance, tranquil surroundings, and personalised service makes it a standout choice for modern yet timeless weddings.
www.stelizabeths.co.uk
to weekend-long celebrations with private beach access and luxurious accommodation, Polhawn Fort creates a uniquely romantic atmosphere that perfectly captures the beauty and charm of the Cornish coast. Its secluded setting, stunning architecture, and flexible approach make it a dream venue for truly personalised weddings.
www.polhawnfort.com
with beautiful gardens, luxurious accommodation, and a dedicated wedding team, Polurrian delivers a relaxed yet sophisticated experience that captures the charm and natural beauty of the Cornish coast.
www.polurrianhotel.com
and guests alike. with exclusive-use celebrations, picturesque gardens, and exceptional dining, Deer Park provides a truly unforgettable experience that perfectly captures the charm and beauty of a classic Devon wedding.
my name is ewelina manczak and i am the founder of otem photography.
wedding photography is my passion and my main specialism — a story of love, emotion, and moments that stay with us for years to come. I truly believe photography has an extraordinary ability to hold time still, allowing us to return to memories, emotions, and the people who matter most. Through it, the most meaningful moments can be captured in frames we can cherish every day, and one day pass on to future generations.
My approach is rooted in documentary storytelling, combined with gentle, natural guidance when it is needed. I focus on real emotions, honest moments, and natural light, creating a space where my clients feel comfortable in front of the camera.
I do not interfere with the story more than necessary — instead, I observe it and step in softly when the moment calls for it. This allows the images to remain natural while still reflecting the true atmosphere of the day in the most honest way. whether it is a wedding reportage, a family session, a branding shoot, or commercial work, my aim is for every person in front of my lens to feel at ease and remain fully authentic.
My work has been recognised within the wedding industry — I was a finalist at The Wedding Industry Awards in the south west region. My photographs have been featured on English wedding blogs, and one of my wedding stories was also published in an international magazine. Most meaningfully, one of my images was selected for the cover of the magazine — a truly defining moment in my photographic journey.
The name OTEM Photography holds a deeply personal meaning and comes from the most important people in my life. O stands for Oliwier, my son, T for Tola, my daughter, E for me, Ewelina, and M for Michal, my husband. OTEM is more than a brand name — it is a symbol of love, support, and family values that accompany me every day and shape every story I photograph.
At the heart of OTEM Photography lies storytelling, emotion, and authenticity — captured with care, sensitivity, and a balance between weddings, family, branding, and commercial work. My editing style remains natural and timeless, with soft tones and trueto-life colours, ensuring the images feel just as relevant years from now as they do today.
CApture your sepCiAl dAy the otem wAy
Picnic
Recipes
To celebrate Picnic week on Sunday 18th to Friday 26th June, we’ve put together some easy al fresco ideas for you and the family
Caprese Sandwich
Makes 4 - Difficulty - easy ingredients
• 4 slices of focaccia or 8 slices of bread
• 2 tbsp basil pesto
• 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
• handful of rocket
• 2 x 125g balls of mozzarella, sliced
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• small handful of basil leaves
• 1⁄2 small red onion, sliced (optional)
• 2 tsp thick balsamic vinegar
1
2
If using focaccia, cut the slices across the middle so you have a total of eight slices. spread 1/4 tbsp pesto over four of the focaccia or bread slices, and drizzle each of the remaining four slices with 1/2 tsp olive oil.
Divide the rocket, mozzarella, tomatoes, basil leaves and red onion slices over the pesto-topped focaccia or bread. Drizzle 1/4 tsp balsamic vinegar over each of the remaining slices. sandwich the slices together, wrap up for a picnic or serve straightaway. best eaten on the day they’re made.
Caramelised Onion Sausage Rolls
Makes - 8 Difficulty - easy ingredients
• 6 pork sausages
• 2 tbsp caramelised onion chutney
• 1 tsp wholegrain mustard
1
Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. squeeze the meat from the sausages into a bowl and mix with the chutney, mustard and thyme. Unravel the pastry and roll out until one side measures 43cm.
Cheesecake Jars
Makes - 8 Difficulty - easy ingredients
• 200g buttery biscuit (like shortbread)
• 200g cream cheese
• 200ml double cream
• 6 tbsp icing sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 500g strawberry, halved or quartered
1
• 1 tbsp chopped thyme
• 320g sheet puff pastry
• 1 beaten egg
• ½ tbsp poppy seeds
Arrange sausagemeat down the centre of the pastry. Use the egg to brush along the bottom of the pastry. bring the pastry around the meat, and seal the edges with a fork, then cut into eight. brush with a little more egg and sprinkle with the poppy seeds. Transfer to a lined baking sheet and cook for 25 mins or until golden.
After blitzing the biscuits to crumbs, divide the biscuit crumbs between the jars. In a large bowl, whisk the cream cheese, cream, 5 tbsp icing sugar and the vanilla extract until softly whipped. Tip half the strawberries and the remaining sugar into another bowl and crush with a fork to a purée. Ripple the purée through the cream and divide between the jars. Top each cheesecake with remaining strawberries, secure the lids and chill until ready to pack up. Transport in a cooler bag.
2
1
Heat the grill to its highest setting. In a flameproof casserole dish or metal frying pan, melt the butter and fry the garlic for 2 mins. Add the spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2 mins. Pour in the milk and beer and bring to a gentle bubble. Add the macaroni and stir intermittently for around 20 mins until the pasta is cooked and covered in sauce.
2
stir in the cheddar and half the mozzarella. when it starts to melt, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top and put it in the oven for around 7-10 mins or until browned on top and sensational underneath.
Classic Cheese Scones
Makes 5-6 - Difficulty - easy
ingredients
• 225g self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting
• pinch of salt
• pinch of cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 55g chilled butter, cut into cubes
• 120g mature cheddar, grated
• 90-100ml milk, plus 1 tbsp for glazing
3
Make a well in the centre of the mixture and pour in enough milk to give a fairly soft but firm dough. Do not pour in all the milk at once as you may not need it all to get the right consistency.
Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to approximately 2cm thick. Cut out the scones with a medium (about 8cm) cutter, then put on a sheet of baking parchment, glaze with a little milk and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. slide onto the hot oven tray.
4
bake in the oven for 15-20 mins or until golden brown and cooked through.
cheesy
Recipes
Easy cheesey recipes to celebrate National Cheese Day on June 4th ... not that we needed more reasons to eat it
Beer Mac ‘N’ Cheese
Makes 4 - Difficulty - easy
ingredients
• 50g butter
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 50g spinach
• 500ml milk
• 250ml pale ale
• 200g macaroni
• 100g cheddar, grated
• 200g mozzarella, grated
1
Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6 with a large baking tray inside. Sift the flour, salt, cayenne pepper and baking powder into a bowl, then sift again to make sure the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Add the butter to the bowl and combine with your fingertips to make breadcrumbs. Sprinkle 100g of the cheese into the breadcrumb mixture and rub together until evenly distributed. Try not to mix too much as the heat from your hands may start to melt the butter. 5
2
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