CLIVEDEN LITERARY FESTIVAL SET TO RETURN THIS AUTUMN Now in its seventh year, the sell-out Cliveden Literary Festival is renowned as a forum for lively discussion, political debate and thought-provoking ideas. Run by a committee of writers and historians, the Cliveden Literary Festival draws on luxury hotel and wedding venue Cliveden House’s unique history as a literary salon frequented by writers and thinkers including Sir Winston Churchill. Visitors to Cliveden Literary Festival will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful National Trust gardens and enjoy scenic walks down to the River Thames. Cliveden House, which is operated by the Iconic Luxury Hotel group, has recently been awarded a Forbes Travel Guide Star Award, and Condé Nast Johansens Award for Excellence. To find out more about weddings at the property, visit www.clivedenhouse.co.uk and to book tickets for the festival, visit https://clivedenliteraryfestival.org All the latest from around the regions NEWS Nearlywed GIFTS INSTEAD OF FLOWERS WINS NEW KID ON THE BLOCK AWARD Buckinghamshire-based company Gifts Instead of Flowers has won the New Kid on the Block business award at this year’s Small Awards. The company was crowned the winner at a celebration event in central London, hosted by presenter, writer, actor and comedian, Sue Perkins. The idea of Gifts Instead of Flowers was born when founder Jan Jenkins was ill. She received many flowers which were very appreciated, but flowers have a shelf life and all that’s left is a card written by the florist. After visiting many art shows and trade fairs, the brand now features hand-picked, talented artists and craftspeople who have been selected by Jan and the team for the quality, uniqueness, and affordability of their work. All the gifts showcased are British-based and under £80 which is the approximate price of a large bouquet. Gifts Instead of Flowers does not take a commission from sales so customers can order in confidence that the artist or creator receives the full value of every sale made through the website. What the team do ask is that once sales are coming in, the artist donates to a local charity called William’s Fund. “This award was special not just for Gifts Instead of Flowers but also for all the artists and small businesses on our website and we would all like to once again thank the Small Awards for this recognition. It was also an amazing evening and one we will remember for a long time,” the team says. Michelle Ovens CBE, founder of Small Business Britain and the Small Awards commented, “Congratulations to Gifts Instead of Flowers, who impressed our team and judges with their inspiring entrepreneurship and commitment to serving customers and their community. It remains a challenging time for the small business community, but it is so positive to celebrate the amazing contribution of small firms like Gifts Instead of Flowers.” To shop, visit www.giftsinsteadofflowers.com EDITOR LOVES The Elephant at the Market in Newbury, part of the Revere Pub Company, is situated in the heart of the historic Market Square. It’s a boutique pub with 14 rooms, a modern beer garden and a quirky metal shipping container that’s available for private hire for parties of up to 16 people. It’s ideal for casual summer soirées or intimate post-wedding celebrations where guests can sample the extensive list of craft beers, ales or cocktails and indulge in a menu full of seasonal delights. To book, visit www.theelephantatthemarket.com 9 LOCAL NEWS
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