If you’ve spent any time down at Ouaisné over the past decade, chances are you’ve tasted a little Kismet magic. Whether it was a beachside brunch roll after a dip, a rum punch slushie at sunset, or the unmistakable beat of live music drifting across the sand, Kismet Cabana became woven into the rhythm of westie Jersey life.
Now, after nine incredible years by the sea, the team behind the island’s most colourful catering crew has turned the page to an entirely new chapter. Meet The Pantry – by Kismet Cabana, the business’s freshly opened home at La Haule Farm, St Aubin. Housed in the former Lucas Brothers shop, The Pantry blends everything Kismet is loved for, flavour, creativity, and community, with a new mission: to make sustainable, chef-made local food accessible for every islander.
A kitchen built on connection
“We wanted to create something that celebrates local food and makes it easy for busy people to eat well” says founder and chef Chris Lister, “the idea was simple – real food, made from scratch with local ingredients (wherever possible), ready for your home oven.”
Inside, The Pantry feels like a natural evolution of the brand: rustic shelves lined with small-batch sauces, chutneys and relishes from their Dollops & Dashes range, freezers stocked with comforting Soul Food & Wanderlust dishes (think Woodlands Farm Cottage Pie, Sri Lankan Chicken Curry, and Pulled Brisket Mac & Cheese), and a bright corner bursting with produce from farms like Manor Farm, Three Oaks Vineries, Blanc Pignon, and Homefield.
Sustainability, but make it soulful
The Pantry’s ethos goes far beyond flavour. Sustainability has always been part of the Kismet DNA, and this new venture brings that to life in every detail. Packaging is fully compostable or recyclable, with the team’s new Jersey Bean Pot scheme rewarding customers for returning glass jars and bottles. “It’s a simple idea – you bring back your jars, we reuse them, and the savings go into our community fund,” explains Summer. “It’s about circular thinking – reducing waste while giving something back.”That “something back” extends to their Pay It Forward scheme, designed to make wholesome, local food accessible to everyone. The goal? To provide subsidised meals and community hampers for those in need.
From Ouaisné to La Haule
The move has opened the door to collaboration. The Pantry now stocks products from other local makers, including Rawe Juices, Brooklands Farm, Jade Fisheries, and Blanc Pignon, creating a one-stop shop for island-made goodness.
So… what’s happening with Kismet Cabana?
The short answer – it’s still very much alive, just evolved. Kismet Cabana now focuses purely on private catering, weddings, and events – giving Chris and the team the space to dish up those signature Kismet flavours for special occasions across the island. From intimate dinner parties to large-scale celebrations, you can still expect the same sunshine-filled menus, music-infused atmosphere and that touch of Kismet flair – just brought directly to you.
What’s next for The Pantry?
With the shop now open, the focus turns to digital growth. Their new website, thepantry. je, will soon allow customers to order online for click-and-collect or island-wide delivery, with subscription meal plans launching in early 2026. “We’ve learned that good food isn’t just about what’s on your plate,” says Chris. “It’s about the people who grow it, the hands that make it, and the stories that bring it to life. That’s what we want The Pantry to represent.” Whether you’re popping in for your weeknight dinner, a jar of Jerk BBQ Sauce, or just to say hi, you’ll find that same Kismet warmth waiting at the door
My name is Lucinda Wakeham. I am a potter and the founder of The Wheelhouse Pottery Studio, based at First Tower, where I make my work on the potter’s wheel and teach pottery classes. I started making pottery in 2019 after discovering the joys of clay at an introductory class hosted by Highlands College.
Tell us about your Genuine Jersey Products?
I throw raku and stoneware clays, creating decorative one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces that capture the essence and inspiration of nature’s beauty. Rarely throwing with intention but rather instinct, the shape and feel of each bisque fired piece is considered before being prepared for the Raku kiln. Oxides and reduction bins are used to create mesmerizing, vivid colours. Others are taken from the kiln when red hot and dipped into a fermented mixture of water, flour, yeast and sugar before being quickly cooled in cold water. Alternatively, the pot is ‘dressed’ with a combination of oxides and organic materials; dried seaweed and flowers, horse hair, salt and sugar, before being wrapped into a foil Saggar. I set the stage and then the unpredictable dance between fire and nature unfolds.
What’s new/what’s coming up?
The new and much larger Wheelhouse studio provides space to show and sell my work on a permanent basis. I continue to be curious about exploring various pottery techniques and formulating new glazes for my Raku practice, which I plan to incorporate into my work in the near future.
@thewheelhousejersey
ABI OVERLAND, ILLUSTRATOR
I’m Abi Overland. I’m an illustrator and sell my work as art prints and homeware as well as doing commission work both private and commercial. I’ve had the business for 10 years now after graduating from my degree in Illustration in 2014.
Tell us about your Genuine Jersey Products?
With my pieces, I aim to work in parallel to trends to create a sense of longevity and timelessness. But the real aim of the work is to provide a sense of escapism and joy to the viewer. Doing the work itself acts as a form of meditation and escapism in its creation and the hope is the viewer will be able to feel the same too. I also have a real enthusiasm for interior design and strive to create unique work that elevates a space whilst also sometimes being a little fun and silly with it too.
What’s new/what’s coming up?
New works are always in process! Some take weeks, some take years. I have a piece that I will be launching soon that was started in June last year that I’m really excited to show everyone. I have lots of items on the to-do list so I’m wary of mentioning anything in case they take a while to come to fruition, but all being well I’d like to introduce a line of wallpaper into the collection in the not too distant future.
When it comes to water, most of us never stop to think about where it comes from. In the words of Mark Bowden, Jersey Water’s Head of Water Resilience and Emergency Planning, “that’s exactly how it should be.” Having worked in the industry for nearly thirty years, he knows the ins and outs of making sure the Island always has access to safe, clean water. Here, he tells us about the work that goes into keeping Jersey’s supply flowing come rain or shine, his collaboration with the farming community, and the challenges of planning for an unpredictable climate.
“There are three main parts to my job. The first is water resource planning, making sure we have enough water for the Island, both now and in the future. We look at the long-term picture but also manage short-term issues like dry spells and droughts. The second is reservoir safety. Jersey’s six reservoirs fall under the Jersey Reservoirs Law, so we handle their inspection, maintenance, and compliance. This is to ensure their safety and reliability for decades to come. And the third is emergency planning: preparing for when things don’t go to plan.
That could mean drought, flood, fire, pandemic, or any other disruption. We work closely with the Government, the emergency services, parishes, and other utilities to coordinate our response and keep water supplies safe and running. It’s all about anticipating risks, preparing for them, and then responding effectively when something happens.
I’ve worked in the water industry for nearly 30 years, starting out at United Utilities in the North West of England. I’ve done everything from mopping floors in treatment works to managing major operational teams.
When I moved to Jersey in 2016, a key part of my role was to develop a new long-term drought plan for the Island. I was attracted by the challenge as it’s a huge responsibility. At Jersey Water, you can really shape the future of the Island’s supply, and that’s something I find motivating every day.
Our main focus is making sure the Island always has enough water, now and for decades to come. Climate change means rainfall is becoming more unpredictable, and in recent years we’ve seen some dry springs and summers. That puts real pressure on reservoir storage levels, so we need to plan carefully and build resilience into the water system.
On the water resources side, there are two parts to the equation: supply and demand. On the supply side, we look at how much water we can capture and store, making the most of the Island’s natural resources, and where we can add climate-independent capacity, such as desalination. On the demand side, it’s about reducing water use and leaks as much as possible.
Our ‘Big Butt’ campaign has just finished, where we partnered with four local garden retailers to encourage people to invest in a water butt and collect rainwater through the winter. It’s a simple, practical way to save water, and it’s better for your garden too. You can use collected rainwater for watering plants, washing cars or cleaning outdoor windows instead of using drinking water. It’s like having thousands of little reservoirs in people’s homes and gardens.
At home, there are lots of small actions people can take. Avoid using a hosepipe where possible. Reuse washing-up water for plants. Catch the cold water that runs while your shower warms up – it can fill a bucket in no time, which you can then use for watering or topping up ponds. And for anyone wanting to see how they could save more, we have the Get Water Fit tool on our website that gives personalised tips based on your habits. It’s not about stopping use; it’s about stopping waste. Lots of Islanders making small changes can have a big impact overall. It can help us leave more water in the environment and reduce the need for enforced hosepipe restrictions.
Over the next few years, we’re investing in Jersey’s infrastructure. The expansion of the desalination plant is the next big project. It’s a climate-independent source of supply, meaning that, unlike a reservoir, it doesn’t depend on how much rainfall we get. People often ask why we don’t just build a new reservoir, but new reservoirs are extremely expensive, and they take decades of planning, consultation and approvals. Desalination gives us a reliable way to increase capacity while keeping costs as low as possible. Whilst it’s expensive to operate desalination, it’s a lot cheaper overall because we already have one that we can upgrade and expand. Once you’ve invested in a reservoir, which costs hundreds of millions of pounds, these costs are effectively baked into customer bills in the future. We want to keep costs as low as they can be, whilst remaining resilient to the drought.
The biggest challenge is balancing quantity and quality. We need to deliver on both, but quality and quantity are so interrelated with each influencing the other. Several years ago, we stopped taking water from sources affected by historic PFAS contamination around the airport. This makes us resilient in a drought and gives us fewer options during dry spells.
Our farming community is vital to Jersey’s culture and history and it needs to be part of our future. For a decade now, we’ve worked closely through the Action for Cleaner Water Group, which brings together Jersey Water, the Government’s Environment Department and local farmers.
By sharing knowledge and understanding each other’s challenges, we’ve made real progress. Nitrate and pesticide levels have reduced significantly, and we have achieved another year of 100% compliance with all water quality standards. That’s a huge achievement and very rare, not only in the UK but worldwide across the water industry. It’s a great example of what collaboration can achieve. We’ve strengthened relationships, improved understanding on both sides, and shown how farming and water management can work hand in hand. The results speak for themselves: better water quality, healthier soils, and a more sustainable approach to land management.
We’re long-term supporters of the Jersey Farming Conference, which is a great forum for open dialogue, and we are also now involved with Regen Gathering. Supporting these initiatives benefits everyone: every activity on the land can affect water quality. We want all farming on the Island to be both successful and sustainable, enhancing the environment, not harming it, because good farming practices mean better water resilience.
Working in water gives you a real sense of purpose. We’re providing something essential; you turn on the tap and clean, safe water comes out. Most people never think twice about it, and that’s exactly how it should be. Behind the scenes, a lot of work goes into keeping it that way. Everyone at Jersey Water feels that responsibility. We’re all customers as well as employees, so we care deeply about what we do. It’s an honest, important industry and one that directly affects people’s lives every single day.”
The Christmas season… the storm before the calm – excessive eating, tequila shots at the office party and general festive exuberance. As the new year’ dawns, those heady December memories are often met with feelings of mince-pie tinged remorse. We thought it might be useful to present some local businesses who are geared up to help you, whatever your particular flavour of ‘new year, new me!’ entails…
Hollie Mcvittie: JOY TRAINING LTD
Joy Training is a personal training and body transformation company. I started my business in early 2020 as a purely online offering, which proved to be timely, as it was before the world changed forever and homes and gyms went into lockdown.
My ethos of “bright sparks shine anywhere, you don’t need all the gear,” proved really helpful to get Joy Training off to a flying start when everyone was trying to keep fit at home. I was a competitive bodybuilder at the time, and competed that year training and living solely in my tiny flat… push ups and pull ups were the way forward! Now I train people both in person and via online coaching, and I have added two new clinical offerings in the last month.
A bespoke service that I offer to clients is my Styku Infrared 3D body scanner machine. This baby travelled in from the USA and is at the forefront of health tech. As it uses infrared technology it is totally unaffected by what you eat or drink, making the results completely accurate whatever the time of day.
The 3D images that come out are amazing: it can differentiate between muscle, fat, bone and water. It does a 3D image of you, measures all of your circumferences, visceral fat, BMI, BMR… plus, if you aim for a particular bodyfat goal, it accurately sets your calories and a goal date based on all the data it has on you, including how often you workout. The infrared is completely non-invasive, meaning you can be scanned if pregnant or with a pacemaker if fitted. It’s proven really popular already!
A truly unique service I offer to clients is blood testing. The results are uploaded to my website, and can be accessed using a unique login. Next to each metric tested is an in-depth, layman’s terms explanation as to what’s been assessed, what it means, and what could impact it. Fully colour-coded, it brings visual clarity to your results. An ex client of mine, Dr Rud, is available to take bloods three times a week, which are tested locally, so results are available on my website within 48 hours. No one else offers this service in Jersey (that I know of), so it’s definitely worth trying out if you want to take control of your health data.
I believe the secret to attaining wellness is harnessing your thoughts. These lead to feelings, which lead to actions, which lead to results. To succeed in all areas of your life, you first need to start with your thoughts: if you don’t control them, they control you. My clients know the most important body part to train is your brain!
joytraining.net
Tania Le Couilliard: TLC PILATES JSY
I’ve been working in the fitness industry for over 25 years and now focus on movement and Pilates. In 2019, I opened TLC Pilates Jsy, a small, friendly Pilates equipment studio in town. I’ve been teaching Mat Pilates for nearly fifteen years and Reformer and Equipment Pilates for almost ten, offering small group Reformer, Mat and Mixed Equipment classes, as well as private 1:1 and 2:1 sessions. I also teach Reformer Pilates as part of the ABC (after breast cancer) exercise offering.
What makes my approach unique is the way I teach. Although I’m contemporary trained, I stay quite close to the classical Pilates exercises, adapting and modifying movements for clients with injuries, postnatal needs or movement control issues. My focus is always on slow, controlled movement, ensuring correct technique and helping clients achieve better, longer-lasting results.
For me, the key to wellness is movement: moving as well as you can and continually working to improve how your body functions. Pilates is about awareness, control and connection, learning to slow down and really listen to how your body feels and moves.
At TLC Pilates Jsy, I aim to create a calm, supportive space where every client feels comfortable and confident in their movement journey. My goal is simple: to help people move better, feel stronger, and live well through the power of Pilates.
tlcpilatesjsy.com
Iuliana Ilie: HYPNOTHERAPIST & HOLISTIC LIFE COACH
I’m a mother, a wife, and a forever Life Student. My work as a hypnotherapist and holistic life coach began during my own search for answers after a mental breakdown a few years ago.
I didn’t enter this field from theory. I stepped into it because I needed to understand myself and rebuild from the inside out. On my own self-discovery and healing journey, I found my passion for this work and the clear sense that this is my calling. I overcame severe anxiety, depression, and panic attacks with the help of pure therapeutic essential oils and the power of my own mind. We all have a magic wand within us. We just need to learn to discover it.
We are all different individuals, and nobody can hand us our answers. My role is to help each person discover the tools that truly resonate with them so they can access their own truth. What makes my work unique is the depth of experience I bring. I don’t guide people from theory alone. I guide them from lived experience and a genuine understanding of what it feels like to unravel, rebuild, and grow. My approach brings together neuroscience, therapeutic essential oils, and hypnotherapy, supporting the mind, body, and emotions as one connected system.
For me, wellness begins with awareness. It starts when we slow down, listen to our bodies, and give ourselves space to understand the emotions behind our symptoms. When we reconnect with ourselves, clarity rises. Symptoms are simple messages from within, and when we feel peaceful and aligned inside, our outer world naturally reflects that same peace.
iuliana-ilie.com
Hannah Mayer & Adele Patel: ALIGN HEALTH AGENCY
Adele…
I studied at AECC University College and enjoy working with people of all ages. I’m passionate about helping individuals stay injury-free and active, inspired by my own love of running and fitness. My chiropractic technique is gentle, evidence-based, and tailored to each person, helping you feel and function at your best.
At Align, we take a patient-centred approach to care, focusing on improving how your body moves and how your nervous system functions in the way that’s best for you. Using gentle, hands-on techniques, we help relieve pain, restore movement, and support lasting wellbeing. Our entire team shares the same philosophy, providing a welcoming, supportive space where you feel listened to, understood and confident in your journey towards better health. We help people to not only find relief from pain, but build lasting strength and resilience, supporting both physical health and overall wellbeing.
What makes my care unique is that as well as relieving pain, I also focus on helping you understand your body. Alongside hands-on chiropractic care, I educate and empower patients with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to manage their own health, prevent future issues, and stay active. I believe the secret to wellness lies in movement – when your body moves well, you feel well. True wellness isn’t just the absence of pain; it’s about balance, confidence, and the ability to live life fully and actively.
Hannah…
After studying for five years in Bournemouth, I returned home to start my career, and I’ve been part of the Align team for three years now. Align is a multidisciplinary health care practice where I work alongside other amazing practitioners at Lido Medical Centre, providing tailored care to suit anyone and everyone.
As a chiropractor, we undertake a thorough history, physical examination and specialist testing to ensure you have a tailored and unique treatment programme. This includes adjustments to promote a healthier nervous system and lifestyle advice to ensure you’re staying healthy at home.
For me, the secret to wellness is never underestimating small steps. Even tiny improvements add up over time, shaping a stronger, healthier version of you. Something as simple as getting adjusted once a month, increasing your steps per day or working five minutes of stretching into your routine may seem minor, but over time, these actions create lasting, positive chance in your body, mind and overall wellbeing.
www.align.je
Kit Chamier & Paul Garrod: TRUE FOOD
Paul….
As a nutritionist, I take the time to really get to know each person I work with, from their lifestyle to preferences, and motivations.
We are passionate about helping people make sense of nutrition by combining solid science with practical, realistic strategies they can actually apply on a daily basis. For me, it’s about translating the evidence into something that resonates with the individual, because if it doesn’t make sense to you, it’s hard to turn it into lasting habits and real change.
Our approach is all about connection, both in person at Bond Street Health clinic in town, and online, giving clients direct access to guidance, resources and accountability every step of the way. That balance of personal support and flexibility makes it easier for people to stay consistent and see real progress. I believe the secret to success is simple: don’t get your advice exclusively online. It’s too easy to be misled or misinformed. Check the source and work with qualified, experienced professionals who take the time to understand you. Context is everything, and everyone is different. When you find someone who genuinely wants the best for you, that’s when you’ll make real progress and discover what works.
Kit….
Like Paul, I specialise in nutrition consultancy for general health and sports performance, taking a practical and realistic approach focused on long-term results.
What makes our service unique is the way we combine face-to-face consultations with our online portal. We’re really proud of this cohesive approach; it gives clients direct access to us and all our resources anytime, helping to boost accountability, consistency and results. And means the typical methods of meal tracking, which traditionally are clunky and tedious, become simplified and overseen by us. It’s a level of support and integration that isn’t available anywhere else on the Island.
I believe the secret to wellness is… there is no secret! Many people search for a quick fix or a “silver bullet,” but the truth is, lasting results come from consistency. It’s about aligning your nutrition and lifestyle with your goals, staying realistic, and building habits that you can maintain over time.
www.truefood.je – book in directly through the website.
Anna Haines: ASHTANGA YOGA JERSEY
I’ve been practicing yoga for over 15 years, studying with some of the world’s most respected teachers, including extended time in India under the late yoga master Sharath Jois. At Ashtanga Yoga Jersey, I offer daily classes in the traditional Mysore self-practice method, giving each student individual guidance to learn at their own pace. This personalised approach allows practitioners to connect deeply with their breath and cultivate a meditative, mindful practice.
Our classes are open to everyone, from beginners to experienced practitioners, and I love seeing people of all ages and abilities practicing side by side. The Mysore style is therapeutic and highly adaptable, so each student’s practice unfolds safely and naturally, tailored to their body and needs. To complement morning classes, we also explore yoga philosophy and chanting through special community events and conferences. These are free to attend to all my students, those who attend corporate classes, private classes or anyone who drops in to our newly launched lunchtime class!
In my opinion, the secret to attaining wellness is understanding that it is multifaceted, constantly shifting as we move through different stages of life. The discipline of yoga is a powerful tool for achieving overall emotional, mental and physical wellbeing, as well as building resilience and self-control. However, for yoga to truly work, it must be tended to daily. The secret isn’t in attending a class once a week, but in returning to the mat consistently, over time. Through steady, devoted practice, one cultivates equanimity, a lasting peace of mind and a sense of freedom within the body.
@ashtangayogajersey
Emily Fernando: ENHANCE FITNESS
My passion for helping others feel confident and strong comes from my own struggles with my health, body image and self-esteem during my younger years. Those experiences pushed me to learn more about training and nutrition so I could not only transform my own mindset but also help others do the same. My goal is to help everyone build confidence, strength, and balance that lasts.
All my sessions are completely private and run out of my private gym. This means that clients get the comfort and focus of training in a space with no distractions or intimidation. Any time that I don’t spend on the gym floor is dedicated to my full online coaching clients via my app, where I also offer nutrition coaching. Combining my qualifications in both areas gives clients a complete, evidence-based approach that’s realistic, flexible, and enjoyable.
For me, the secret to attaining wellness revolves around balance and consistency. Wellness isn’t about being perfect, in fact it’s quite the opposite: it’s about finding a routine that supports both your body and your mind. When you focus on moving your body, eating whole foods 80% of the time, and taking care of yourself in ways that feel good, everything else falls into place. Pouring into myself and investing in my wellness saved me in ways that I could never explain, and now I’ll spend my years ensuring that others are able to follow along the same path and reach ultimate happiness within their skin.
@emily.enhancefitness
Liz Leech: LIZ LEECH PSYCHOTHERAPY & COUNSELLING
I’m Liz, a psychotherapist based in Jersey, though I also work online with clients in other countries. I’ve been in this field for over 20 years, and I built my practice around helping people feel safe, seen, and supported. My background’s a mix of education, healthcare and a whole lot of life experience, which means I get where people are coming from, both professionally and personally.
My approach is very relational and I try to keep it real. I don’t have all the answers and don’t pretend to. You’re the expert of your experience, not me, but I offer a space where you can talk freely, be yourself and not feel judged. I use an integrative approach, which means I tailor the therapy to you, not the other way around. Whether it’s anxiety, relationship stuff or just feeling stuck, we work together to figure it out.
I think the ‘secret’ to wellness is consistency. Showing up even when we don’t want to. There’s no magic fix, but there is a path. Wellness starts with understanding relationships; with yourself, and others. It’s about getting to know yourself better and letting go of stuff that no longer serves you. It’s not a linear journey, and it takes courage, but with the right support you can absolutely get there.
I’m aware that being able to afford therapy is a privilege so as well as seeing clients individually I also run group therapy sessions which allows for more affordable support. In January, I’ll be running two new groups: one focused on stress and anxiety, and another on relationship issues. These are great if you want to connect with others going through similar experiences and learn together in a supportive setting. Remember, mental wellness supports your overall well-being and allows for meaningful connection with your life. Who wouldn’t want that?
lizleechpsychotherapy.com
Vasti van As: LIDO CHIROPODY CLINIC
I’m Vasti. I work at Lido Chiropody Clinic as a Podiatrist. I have worked in Podiatry for over 10 years and in Jersey with LCC since 2021. At Lido Chiropody we are a small team of three Podiatrists, working at Lido Medical Center, St Martin Surgery at New Street and Strive Health Club in St Peter.
Additionally we offer Home Visiting Services Island wide and accept Pension Plus for all our services. We specialise not only in general foot health but the overall wellbeing of our patients. We aim to tailor our treatment plans to our patients’ needs. We also provide care and treatments for neurodivergent individuals, and those with adaptive and additional needs.
We excel in Biomechanics, ingrown toenails as well as high risk patients and diabetics. We are proud to be the only supplier of FootBalance orthotics in the Channel Islands. These are 100% custom made orthotics. The assessment is done using a state of the art 3D foot scanner, and orthotics are fabricated while you wait to the individual contours of your feet ensuring you get personalised corrective benefits immediately. We also offer Verruca Needling; one of the most effective treatments for verrucas and warts. We are excited to announce we will soon also be offering Curacorn – a revolutionary treatment to provide up to 18 months relief from the pain caused by corns. All of this makes us a very specialised and unique Podiatry/Chiropody clinic. We always strive to bring more to our patients.
I wholeheartedly believe without good foot health your overall mood and well-being will deteriorate. We have all at one point been miserable because of painful feet. Foot pain is not normal at any age and should not be accepted as such. Let us help you to start with a good solid base to ensure you remain fit, healthy and able to do all the things you love.
lidochiropody.com
Cam Elliott: TRANSFORM TOGETHER
Hey, I’m Cameron Elliott, but everyone calls me Cam (apart from my mum!) I’m the founder of Transform Together, or TT for short: “the gym for people who don’t like gyms!”
I’ve been in the fitness industry for almost 14 years. I actually left college early after landing a work experience placement at a local gym, which went so well, that they offered me a full time job contract. The classroom was never really my thing, but the gym? That’s where I felt at home. It gave me purpose, confidence, and a sense of belonging, and that’s what I want other people to experience too.
At Transform Together, we’ve built a place for people who’ve always felt a bit out of place in regular gyms: the loud, busy, or intimidating ones. TT is a community where you can feel seen but never judged, work out freely (even if you’re red-faced and sweaty!), and be around like-minded people who lift each other up. We want people to feel like the gym is their happy place, and build confidence, connection and community.
Honestly, the secret to great physical and mental health is great social health. We become like the people we spend our time with. Our moods, habits, even our energy are contagious; it’s called emotional contagion. When you surround yourself with positive, supportive people it rubs off on you. If you want to be happy, spend time with people who bring you joy. If you want to feel confident, be around people who believe in you. That’s what we’re all about at TT; creating an environment where you can grow, connect and feel good about yourself. When your social health is strong, everything else just clicks into place.
transformtogether.je/trial
Michelle Buckles: OASIS THERAPY
I’m Michelle Buckles, a registered psychotherapist and founder of Oasis Therapy, a private practice in St Martin. My work helps people find calm, clarity, and confidence through neuroscience-informed psychotherapy. As a Human Givens Psychotherapist, I focus on meeting emotional needs in sustainable ways to build lasting wellbeing.
At Oasis Therapy, each session is tailored to the individual, drawing on the latest understanding of how the brain and body interpret emotions, providing ‘in the moment’ skills to rehearse whilst working on goals that will move a client from feeling stuck to empowered. Using a solution focused approach enables someone to see that change is possible, and through compassionate and practical care I’ve supported people through anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, addiction and loss.
Beyond my private practice, I co-founded Mind Matters, a mental health service for the workplace, dedicated to supporting businesses across Jersey. Alongside fellow psychotherapist Lydia Falle, Mind Matters helps organisations create healthier, more resilient work cultures where people can thrive by receiving preventative mental health care.
For me, wellness isn’t just about relaxation or self-care, although both are important for our mental wellbeing. It’s about working with the client to identify barriers to change, instill hope that things can be different, and rehearse success. When our core psychological needs are met, both personally and professionally, we unlock the ability to live fuller, more contented, lives.
It’s been just over 2 months since Red House Yamaha Music School opened its doors, and illuminated its bold beacon of a window sign. Since then, over 200 students have flocked through the doors eager to embrace the Red House & Yamaha way of learning music.
With four floors of musical magic, and a max capacity of 800 students, Red House Yamaha Music School has the potential to flourish as Jersey’s musical community & education hub. That’s precisely what Charlie Northedge, Paul Sharkey, and Emily Hare are hoping for. Sitting down over a delicious Red House coffee with a towering wall of electric guitars as the backdrop, the talented trio divulge into the story behind the music school, Jersey’s music community, and aspirations for the future.
The story begins with Island Music owner, Paul Sharkey. Having been reached out to by Yamaha with the prospect of establishing an official Yamaha Music School on the island, Paul immediately ‘hunted down’ Charlie, poaching him as the perfect man for the job. Having always been ‘fascinated with music retail’, just over 3 years ago Paul plunged into his dream job of taking on Island Music. Since then, he’s found himself as an integral facet of Jersey’s music community. Hence when the opportunity to collaborate with Charlie arose, it was just the ‘right thing’ at the right time.
Having originally run Chordz Music School & Coffee House for many years before eventually selling it to a Guernsey-owned company, Charlie humbly admits that he ‘instantly missed it.’ ‘So we’re doing it all over again—bigger and better than ever.’ After all, ‘a bit of competition is a good thing, isn’t it?’ With classes ranging from drums and guitar to ukulele and DJing, there’s something inherently refreshing about the spin Charlie is bringing to the new school. The school currently boasts 10 teachers, with more set to join in 2026, including Red House manager and locally adored singer-songwriter Emily Hare (also known as Emily Faye). Emily proudly details the ‘guarded’ methods that Yamaha use when it comes to appropriately training their accredited tutors: ‘each teacher has to fly over to the UK to complete a course. Twice. For three days at a time’.
Whilst Yamaha’s training methods for teachers appear sculpted and rigorous, their learning style for students is very much the opposite. ‘It’s very much learning by ear first. So the last thing your child does is look at a book’. It speaks volumes when the teacher you are being taught by can say: ‘it’s actually the way I would have loved to have learned music as a kid too’. The rigid penciled-in boxes that dominate academic curricula, can feel stressful and inaccessible, particularly to creative children. Therefore, when Charlie exclaims with modest pride ‘we want it to be a fun environment, we want to nurture creativity, and enjoyment’, an immense sense of optimism is restored. ‘They should be skipping through the door’: ‘And most of the children are, they’re all buzzing’.
Not only is there a focus on accessibility in regards to interactive learning, but also in the way of sharing the financial load. It’s no secret that playing an instrument, or engaging in the creative arts more broadly, can become a costly hobby. For new parents, it may not be the first activity that comes to mind when encouraging children to participate in after-school programs.
However, this is precisely where Charlie and Paul are working to change the narrative. ‘Every student that signs up gets access to Yamaha’s education fund, so that they can get discounts on Yamaha instruments’. Financial relief through Red House Yamaha Music School and Island Music, comes in the way of 10% discounts on Yamaha instruments, payment plans, and free taster sessions. The goal is to make music education as accessible as possible to as many people as possible.
In addition to Paul Sharkey’s pivotal role in bringing the ‘first music school of its kind’ to the Channel Islands, he has also been establishing Island Music Presents–yet another string to his bow in expanding his ever-growing creative repertoire. As of yet, Island Music Presents has put on 10 shows in the past 8 months, with a conscious priority to spotlight young, local musicians.
Paul’s philosophy of breaking barriers for local musicians involves bringing the ‘right caliber of artists’ to the island and having local musicians support them at grassroots venues. In Paul’s words ‘this helps raise the bar for local artists’, particularly in a way that brings their names into the public eye. ‘It’s just about capturing that public imagination’. If bringing Justin Hawkins to perform at The Opera House and the Freedom Centre is what it takes to strengthen Jersey’s music scene, then we’re fully on board.
Despite Paul’s unequivocally inspiring efforts to amplify Jersey’s music scene, he expresses concerns about the ‘ceiling’ that looms over Jersey’s creatives, particularly musicians: ‘I think that’s the problem with Jersey if you’re to make a success of it, you’ve got to get your stuff together early doors, and then get off the island: because we don’t have an all encompassing scene’. Yet, there is hope for change. Paul suggests that we may be on the brink of a ‘guitar boom,’ noting, ‘fourteen-year-olds are coming through and listening to the same music I did as a teenager.’ Perhaps the current generation of teens hold the key to revitalising Jersey’s music scene.
If you missed the last open day on the 29th of November and are eager to explore music education opportunities – or even have a chat about the enhancement of Jersey’s music scene – take a stroll over to West Centre. You might even get the chance to sit on their retro Yamaha sports bike. But they’ll certainly be keen to tell you about the enthralling new courses launching in 2026, including Charlie’s 12 week Blues Guitar program, tailored to adults. You might also be lucky enough to try your hand at their Ernie Ball vending machine to grab some Christmas goodies for your favourite guitar enthusiasts, or check out the stunning pieces of art by local artist DEEP (David Prescott) scattered throughout the space.
At the heart of Red House Yamaha Music School and Island Music is a shared passion: it’s not just about picking up an instrument and learning to play, but about fostering creativity and providing a space for experimentation without judgment. Step inside, let the music fill not just your ears but your heart, and be part of the Island’s next chapter of music.
Every house has character, though some try to hide it under one of Farrow & Ball’s twenty shades of white, plush grey furnishings and bi-fold doors. Holly Lodge gives the bird to such dwellings, with its exposed beams, patterned wallpaper and those quirky, upper-middle-class walls drenched in Little Greene. It’s a big, confident five-bedroom house that looks like it’s been standing there since the dawn of agriculture, but was actually renovated in 2016 by someone with a personality somewhere between Emma Bridgewater and Jeremy Clarkson in his Diddly Squat era.
Holly Lodge stands in certainty within the romantic idealism of St. Ouen. The parish is basically Jersey’s equivalent of the Pacific Northwest: green, remote and slightly mythic. ‘Poldark’ could have been filmed there. The morning air smells like it’s been filtered through moss. Rumour has it Caspar David Friedrich painted ‘Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog’ on a cliffside at Grève de Lecq. Holly Lodge, just a stone’s throw from this beach, is a shelter from the storm – complete with quirky hanging bubble lights and a log burner that looks like it warmed a farming family in the 1800s, despite probably still being under warranty from Home Fires. Minimalist middle-aged mums with a penchant for calling their son’s Union Jack–themed bedroom “eclectic” may have an aneurysm stepping into this wallpapered, countryside haven of originality.
As a guest entering Holly Lodge, you’d assume the owner worked hard enough to have their life in order, but not so hard that they forgot what weekends are for – promising a varied, intellectual dinner party conversation that doesn’t just revolve around interest rates. At the heart of the home is an open-plan kitchen and dining area – the kind where you can cook risotto and still feel part of the conversation. The living room is spacious enough to make your voice echo, which could either feel glamorous or quiet, depending on your mental state. There’s also a study – a gentle reminder that whilst work has now seeped out of the office and into every room of our lives, there is still room for a productive sanctuary.
There are five bedrooms, which seems both luxurious and fantastically over-gunned. It’s the perfect set-up for those with four children: three planned, and then the final little straggler who, seven years younger, destroyed your dream of retiring early and becoming an empty nester. Four of these bedrooms have ensuites, meaning you don’t have to fear the intimacy of spitting out toothpaste together in a shared sink. Each room is calm, pristine and noncommittal – the perfect space for teenagers to flit through their ever-changing phases and personalities over the years.
The master suite feels like a small apartment of its own. The ensuite promises the tranquillity of a spa: chrome, light and marble, with the soft whisper of good water pressure. It has a dressing room so big you could lose an argument in it, but the structure of a home from a time when things didn’t just get tossed; they were rebuilt. Maybe that’s the appeal of renovated homes: that any problem – literal or emotional – can be solved with the right amount of money and reliable contacts.
From the garden, you can see fields and trees and probably a tractor if you wait around long enough. There are two patios, one south-facing and one west-facing, which means you can chase the sun all day like someone trying to outrun their 9–5. The garden is neat, lawned and simple: the perfect choice for someone who prefers the idea of gardening to the act of it. It’s the kind of outdoor space that invites you to sip, grill, compliment the shrubbery, and then go back inside before the midges arrive. A type of countryside that feels close enough to touch, but not close enough to inconvenience you. In other words, it’s rural living for Molton Brown enthusiasts who still need the sweet relief of good Wi-Fi.
A double garage stands at the edge of the property, with space for two precious cars that may or may not see the road. The driveway fits four more, because estate agents measure potential in numbers. With 3,853 square feet, five bedrooms, five bathrooms, two patios and one very aspirational postcode, Holly Lodge promises a home worthy of the stamp duty.
Holly Lodge, St Ouen
£2,250,000 Freehold.
5 Bedrooms, 5 Bathrooms, 3853 Square Feet.
Questions? Viewing? Call Jon at Gaudin&Co on 01534 730341.
Henry Marshall, Head Master of St.Michael’s, on life, learning and legacy
When you meet Henry Marshall, Head Master of St Michael’s Preparatory School, it’s immediately clear why pupils and parents alike speak so highly of him. Down-to-earth, thoughtful, and energetic, he leads with a blend of warmth and purpose that perfectly reflects the school’s ethos. Since joining St Michael’s two years ago, Henry has embraced island life with enthusiasm, from early morning runs with his spaniel Otto to championing the values of curiosity, community, and character that define the school. With a background that spans two decades in education and a career shaped by mentors, sport, and a deep respect for childhood itself, his approach is simple yet powerful: every decision begins with one question, what is best for the children?
Henry shares a glimpse behind the headmaster’s desk, from favourite books and memorable advice to why he believes success starts with happiness.
After a demanding school day, what’s your go-to way to unwind?
I’m not someone who enjoys being stuck behind a desk for too long, any opportunity to get out of the office and around the school is always very welcome. I love being outdoors and make the most of any chance for fresh air and exercise. Walking and running with our spaniel, Otto, are particular favourites of mine.
If we peeked at your bookshelf or opened your playlist, what might surprise us?
I’m not sure there are many surprises, but on my bookshelves you’ll find everything from James Herriot, Bill Bryson, Tim Marshall and Ben Macintyre to a selection of sporting biographies. As for my playlist, that’s an easy one, it’s mostly James Blunt and the Stereophonics on repeat!
As a newcomer to Jersey, what are you enjoying most about island life?
Being part of a close-knit island community with such a fascinating history is something really special. The outdoor lifestyle is a huge bonus too.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, inside or outside the classroom?
Inside – “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” Outside – Years ago, I got a tip-off about a greyhound called Black Ruby. As a student, putting £50 on a dog was a big gamble – and watching the race unfold on Ceefax made it all the more nerve-racking. Thankfully, Black Ruby came through and it turned out to be a very good day indeed!
If you weren’t a headmaster, what other career might have tempted you?
I had hoped to become a Royal Marine, but when that didn’t work out, I found my way into teaching, completing my PGCE straight after university.
Favourite meal and drink?
Tough one! First thing that comes to mind is steak and kidney pie and a pint of Guinness. WWW.GALLERY.JE 43 PEOPLE
What was the first job you ever had and what did it teach you?
During the summer holidays, a group of school friends and I returned to our old school to work alongside the maintenance and grounds teams. It was great fun being trusted with all sorts of machinery, and gave me a great respect for those who keep a school running behind the scenes. The tea and lunch breaks were just as memorable, filled with stories from the men about their younger days and our first introduction to “POETS Day” at the end of the week!
What are some of your most vivid memories from your own school days?
I absolutely loved my school days, there are far too many great memories to list. I was really lucky to have a brilliant group of friends and some fantastic teachers who were genuine role models. They taught me values that have stuck with me ever since and looking back, they’re probably a big part of why I ended up in teaching.
Who was the teacher or mentor who left the greatest mark on you as a student, and why?
Three stand out, but it is a man called Keven Johnstone who undoubtedly left the greatest mark. I first came across him on the sports pitches as a young boy. He was an excellent sportsman himself but knew how to get the best of children through his coaching. Years later he became my housemaster, he took a genuine interest in all of the boys and instilled a trust and confidence in me that served me well through my school days and beyond. Sadly, he died from a brain tumour last year, the church couldn’t hold all of the former pupils who came to pay their respects – a great role model.
You began your career in the UK, what first drew you to Jersey?
I have got to know St Michael’s well over several years through the strong sporting relationship that has developed between St Michael’s and my previous school. During that time, I have always been impressed by St Michael’s, its ethos, talented pupils, and dedicated staff. So, when the position of Head was advertised, I was very quick to put my application in!! Since joining St Michael’s two years ago, every member of the school community has been incredibly welcoming, making the move for my whole family a smooth and enjoyable one.
Did you always envision yourself as a headmaster, or was there a pivotal moment when you knew it was your calling?
I have always been ambitious and once I started teaching I always felt that becoming a headmaster was something that I could one day achieve.
Having started off as geography teacher twenty years ago I have been very lucky in taking on roles and responsibilities from Head of Department, taking on numerous sporting teams, running boarding houses, taking on safeguarding roles, leading pastoral care, becoming an ISI inspector, a Deputy Head for eight years and then a Headmaster. I have been incredibly fortunate to work alongside some brilliant colleagues and mentors, over the years, whose guidance and advice have been instrumental.
Your school is renowned for its excellence. What core philosophy guides your leadership and decision-making?
At the heart of my leadership is a child-centred philosophy. Every decision I make begins with one simple question: “What is best for the children?”
Schools exist first and foremost for the children in their care and I believe that if we get it right for the children, if they feel known, valued, challenged, and supported, then everything else follows naturally.
My role is to create an environment where every child can thrive: academically, socially, and emotionally. Ultimately, schools flourish when children are at the centre of every conversation and every decision.
What does true success look like for a headmaster in today’s rapidly changing world?
It is somewhat of a juggling act! Schools are busy communities and the challenge is to try and bring all parties with you on the journey. Ultimately, it has to be happy children, who have enjoyed and thrived during their time at St Michael’s and will hopefully look back fondly on their time here.
What role should schools play in shaping not only scholars, but leaders of character?
Academic success is important, but education is about far more than exam results, it’s about helping young people discover who they are, what they stand for and how they can make a positive contribution to the world around them. At St Michael’s, our values of consideration, challenge, curiosity and community lie at the heart of everything we do. They guide us in developing the whole child, nurturing not just knowledge, but also character and confidence. Our aim is that every pupil leaves St Michael’s equipped with the skills, self-belief and mindset to thrive in an ever-changing modern world.
What do you believe your school does particularly well?
Ensuring that St Michael’s is a place of happiness and smiles that focuses on developing the whole child. We are a non selective school but we regularly send children on to some of the most selective schools here in Jersey and across the UK. That says a lot about both our teaching and our pastoral care. But beyond results, what we do best is help children discover who they are. Whether their passion is engineering, drama, art, sport, music or outdoor learning there is space here to explore it. The character of our pupils shines through: they are considerate, curious and enjoy challenge.
What is a lesson you’ve learned from a student that has stayed with you?
I’m not sure I can pinpoint a single lesson, but I’ve learned never to underestimate what children are capable of.
I always find that the last few years of prep school, Years 7 & 8 are when they flourish and benefit from being at the top of a school and the kudos, experiences and responsibilities that come their way as a result.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self when you first became headmaster, what would it be?
Enjoy it. Schools are built on people and the daily interactions with pupils, staff and parents are what make the role so rewarding. Being a Head and working in education is a huge privilege, you get to shape lives, guide a community and hopefully make a difference.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind when your chapter as headmaster is written?
I’d like to think I’d leave the school stronger than when I found it. If pupils, years later, still look back on their time with fond memories, feeling that St Michael’s helped shape who they are, then I’d consider that a strong legacy…
Carousel, Jersey’s designer rental boutique, hosted a three-day pop-up at JARO Gallery. The event launched on Thursday evening with a packed opening party, where guests enjoyed first access to Carousel’s Christmas collection and complimentary styling. The buzz continued all weekend, from Friday to Sunday, as visitors tried on pieces, booked their festive rentals, and secured many of the most in-demand styles. The pop-up highlighted both the island’s appetite for fresh, sustainable fashion options and the growing shift toward renting over buying. Carousel’s carefully curated rails, featuring sequins, occasion wear, vintage pieces and cult brands, offered Jersey shoppers access to styles not typically available locally.
Wondering whether to venture into a new Christmassy realm and leave your usual BLT behind when selecting your next meal deal? Well, wonder no more, myself and the Gallery office reprobates have taste tested every Christmas sandwich available to us in town.
After putting the word out on social media, a handful of local businesses reached out to us. Unfortunately for a lot of our local stores, their Christmas specials couldn’t be sampled until December. So we’ve scoured local supermarkets in town for the best that they have to offer. Next year, we/I will be more prepared and ensure we have some local independents in the mix.
For now, here’s our sandwich haul–if Santa’s sack was packed full of gluten and cranberry sauce, if you will.
Fa La La La Fel Wrap, M&S, £4.75
3.5/5
Controversially, starting with a wrap, not a sandwich. From head-to-toe, a solid falafel wrap by all accounts. Notably moist, a zingy flavour profile with a peppy spice on the tailend of a bite. Is it screaming Christmas? No. I guess we could be asking M&S, “Do they know it’s Christmas time at all?”. One point for a festive name, but a negative point for missing “Las” for correctness. The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away.
Turkey & Homemade Stuffing, Morrisons, £3.59
1/5
I feel sorry for the turkeys that have ended up in these sandwiches. Wafer thin turkey cuts surrounded by lifeless bread and an abundance of leafage. An occasional bite was accompanied with a sharp crunch which I can only assume was turkey feet or worse. The less said about this sandwich the better. A firm place on the naughty list for whoever created this sandwich.
Turkey Feast, Co-op, £4.40
4/5
Sleigh bells start ringing when you bite into this sandwich. Packed full of traditional Christmas flavours, the turkey, bacon and cranberry game is strong in this one. The bread holds up well as it’s carrying some serious baggage. Hard to fault particularly with a moist turkey component. We had one strong dissenter in the office, but I think that’s down to poor taste rather than the constitution of the sandwich itself.
Gluten Free Turkey Feast, M&S, £4.75
3/5
I hold a particular disdain for gluten free foods. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the GF option from M&S. Good texture, great flavours with a fruity cranberry cutting through the meat. The bread flavour is pretty dire, but this is to be expected, it’s gluten free after all. Eating around the crusts improves the experience. A good showing overall, particularly as we did not find any other GF options around town.
Pigs Under Blankets, Co-op, £3.65
4/5
A smoky meatfest. The honeyed sausages and crispy bacon elevate it into a hangover buster of a sandwich. ‘Pigs under blankets’ might indicate that the pigs are hiding. I can assure you that they are not. Full frontal hog assault on the taste palette is on offer but this lunchtime meal is crying out for some fruit to cut through the meaty noise.
Pulled Pork with Spiced Apple, Morrisons, £3.59
0/5
Burnt bread and heavily processed. Tasteless pork with a horribly confused spiced apple to compliment it. If nothing else, this sandwich is consistent. Consistently disappointing from start to finish. Gallery’s Emma, even referring to it as “tastes like the last few puffs of a vape” – say no more. Turn your Christmassy gaze elsewhere.
Brie and Cranberry, M&S, £4.50
3.5/5
One of the few vegetarian options in our selection. When it comes to looks, this sandwich is a bit of a pauper by comparison to its competition. The slimline version of a Christmas Sandwich. But with refreshingly simple ingredients and a strong cheesy flavour, this sarnie won’t disappoint. Accompanied by a generous dollop of cranberry sauce, you can’t go wrong with it.
Christmas Club, M&S, £5.50
4/5
As the most expensive sandwich in our selection, my expectations were high. A double decker sandwich and a distinct lack of floppiness despite the cargo it’s carrying, an impressive feat of engineering. Sandwich physics aside, it has a festive flavour but does lean into being slightly too sweet. Controversially, I’m a fan of chicken in a Christmas sandwich. Who really likes turkey anyway?
Boxing Day Feast, Co-op, £3.65
2/5
Coleslaw. Coleslaw is how this sandwich starts and ends with not much in between. If you like shaved carrots and cabbage covered in mayo then this is the one for you! But for me, I want Die Hard in sandwich form. This sandwich makes me want to Die Fast.
Pigs in Blankets, M&S, £4.75
5/5
Saving the best to last. This sandwich has everything you’d expect in a Christmas sandwich. A main payload of sausage, bacon and stuffing paired with a fruity chutney balances the sandwich well. Despite the generous quantity of sauces, the bread remained bouncy and held its form. If this sandwich was presented to you on Boxing Day, you might question why you’re not having your Xmas leftovers, but I assure you, you wouldn’t be disappointed after sampling its meaty greatness.
Honourable mentions that we didn’t get to taste, but you definitely should:
Flour Christmas Meal Wrap: I was gutted to not have gotten the chance to review this. But I will be trotting down on Dec 1st when this is first available.
Dandy Christmas special sandwich: A mystery for now, but with Dandy’s fine form in the sandwich department, this will not be one to miss.
Waitrose Christmas sandwiches: Known for a solid selection in this department, but my pork-filled legs wouldn’t take me all the way out of town to try their carby creations.
