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Boss Boys

#BossBoy: Sweet Treats with Kane Dowell of AskMummyAndDaddy.com

Could askmummyanddaddy.com be one of the tastiest businesses around? We think so at #TeamCoco.

Imagine working with confectionery all day, being surrounded by traditional sweets from a bygone era, and being able to sample new contemporary candy before it hits the shops. This is the role of Kane Dowell who co-founded AskMummyAndDaddy.com in 2017 with a re-launch of the business this April alongside co-founder Scott Young.

We asked Kane about his thriving confectionery business, why having an online confectionery store is a great idea, and what his personal favourite sweets are amongst plenty of other questions.

Q. HOC. What did you do before you launched your online store AskMummyAndDaddy.com?

A. Kane. I left school at 15 years old without any GCSE’s, I didn’t go to college or university. I was always at school but academically I just wasn’t great and I suffered with Dyslexia and still do, so I just didn’t have the interest of continuing with exams. When leaving school it was scary because I didn’t know what I wanted to do so I started working at my parents antique shop where Cath Kidston (now the global retailer) used to buy her fixtures and fittings for her one shop at the time. I asked Cath for a job at 16 years old and I got a job assisting her and the directors of her very small brand at the time.

I quickly grew within the business and travelled the world opening shops, setting up shops, and working in every department from marketing to facilities. I joined when Cath Kidston had one shop and left the business nine years later when she had over 100 shops worldwide. It was an amazing experience, but I wanted more and to find my own two feet.

I took some time out to travel and then when returning to the UK I was approached by the company Biscuiteers, an online gifting brand specialising in hand-made artisan biscuits for every season throughout the year.

Whilst I was at Biscuiteers for the two years as Operations Manager I started to get the buzz to create my own thing which would eventually be Ask Mummy & Daddy.

I founded the business with my friend and now creative director Scott who is the mastermind behind all things website, design and creative.

Q. HOC. You have an excellent selection of sweets on your site including contemporary (such as Prosecco Bears) and traditional (such as Sherbet Lemons), do you have a personal favourite?

A. Kane. My personal favourite is Cuba Libre which is Rum & Coke amazing, zero E numbers, 100% natural, and also Gluten Free. I’m not a rum drinker but these make me want to try rum! Sadly, you can’t get drunk on these because they are non-alcoholic – Why? When we create our alcoholic based sweets we use real alcohol but during the process it burns out but still keeps the amazing aroma and also that tingling taste!

Q. HOC. Do you have a different customer who buys the traditional sweets to one who orders only contemporary sweets from your website, or do they tend to mix and match?

A. Kane. Yes we do have a wide range of customers choosing different things and that’s the joy of it! I recently had a customer who ordered 10 bottles of just lemon sherbets! I tried to get her to mix it up and try something else but her mind was set, whereas our younger customers would go for something a lot more fun looking like rainbow pencils which are vegan friendly, full of fruity flavour and one of our most popular sweets.

Q. HOC. Your packaging is neat, clean and contemporary but still quite traditional in the look, how did you successfully get both messages across with just one defined look?

A. Kane. We love our packaging but I can’t take credit for it – my business partner Scott is the man behind all our branding and creative, and he is the guy that listens to me going on about what I want then he pieces it together and comes back to me with some artwork which I then love! He listens to me constantly changing my mind, and he always manages to bring it together and make it work.

We are continuing to try and make things better throughout the year and especially during seasonal periods because its very important.

Q. HOC. Do you have a best selling sweet that your customers return time and again for?

A. Kane. Not really, it really does vary! Our best selling gift box is the Thank You Gift Box and that’s because it ticks many boxes – thanking a teacher, thanking a best friend or just a simple nice gesture.

Q. HOC. You have recently taken AskMummyAndDaddy.com out and about to events, do you often sell face to face or is the business predominantly online?

A. Kane. So we look at our website as something that is just a face to the business – somewhere you can go to hear about the story, take a closer look at things and just browse. We re-launched this year and its only now we are working on the events and B2C (business to consumer) side of the business where we are going to a number of events to chat direct to clients etc. We have just finished attending House & Garden Festival, at the end of July we will be at Camp Bestival the huge family festival, which is simply amazing and totally our clientele. After this we will be opening a Pop-Up Shop on Brompton Road South West London just a 10 min walk from Harrods, which is going to be amazing. Lots more in the pipeline include the likes of Spirit of Christmas which is a huge event for us and then we will be opening a pop-up shop in Westfield over November & December, so as you can see there is lots happening, all very exciting!

Q. HOC. Do you intend on expanding the business in the future, and if so, in what way?

A. Kane. We have huge plans for the business but over the next year its all about being focused in the UK – getting this market set and stable which is important. During my whole working life its very important we don’t try and run before we can walk – with that being said we are off to Dubai in October for a working trip to see this market as it’s a huge area for us the Middle East.

Q. HOC. Do you work with corporate businesses as well as retailing to the consumer online?

A. Kane. This is an area that is very important for us but we haven’t yet started but we are keen to grow this area next year.

Q. HOC. Did anyone within the industry offer you any business advice before you launched your online confectionery business?

A. Kane. I wouldn’t say anyone in the confectionery market has given me advice but I’m constantly learning everyday. My good friend and mentor has to be Cath Kidston herself – she is still a close friend, and what she has been through she deserves every bit of success she got through the brand she created, so if she can do it anyone can!

Q. HOC. What piece of advice would you give someone looking to get into online retail?

A. Kane. I would have to say for anyone looking to start in any business, to know your sector and also industry – there isn’t any shame in saying “I’m wrong” or “Can you please give me some help?” Yes, I’m the face of the business which is only just starting to gather momentum but I would listen to advice from anyone because its good to listen, engage and just be open with business.

Of course you always want to keep your brand and business at the forefront but it’s good to constantly look in shop windows, travel when you can, check online, and look at ways to make things better from a customers point of view.

My biggest piece of advice to anyone starting a business is – don’t be scared and don’t let anyone put you off if you believe in something. Of course be cautious but still have an open mind, but don’t rush. When I was 20 years old and working at Cath Kidston I had a bit of a crisis – I questioned myself many times about what I was doing personally and in work because I got myself in debt, I was suffering with dyslexia, had no GCSE’s, and was assisting people when I thought I should have been this and that, but when looking back it was the best bit of experience I ever had because it taught me a lot.

So before I go – again don’t let anyone tell you it’s not possible because IT IS!

Thank you for taking the time to answer all our #BossBoy questions for House of Coco Magazine online.

Visit www.askmummyanddaddy.com for more information.

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Croatia

6 Most Beautiful Capital Cities Around the World

You can learn a lot about a country and its culture by exploring its capital city. Here are six of the most beautiful capital cities around the world.

London, England

London is the capital of England and there are so many exciting things to do and see. Take a bus tour of the city and see the iconic landmarks of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, The Tower of London, and Piccadilly Circus. Take a ride on The London Eye, a giant wheel that revolves through the air and allows you to see the sights from a bird’s eye view. Enjoying a cruise on the River Thames is another great way to see the sites of this stunning city. Here are the best places to wine and dine in London.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a stunning city that is filled with cobblestone streets, hidden alleyways, and a fascinating history. The city is easy to walk around but be sure to take a ride on the subway and go for a ride on a tram. Old Town is a beautiful area where you can visit St. Wenceslas Square and watch the fascinating medieval Astronomical Clock. The clock does a free show every hour and a large crowd gathers to watch it. Be sure to walk across the statue lined St. Charles Bridge and then head up the hill to see the imposing structure of St. Vitus Cathedral. Here are some of the best things to do if you are visiting Prague for the first time.

Beautiful Capital Cities Around the World

Moscow, Russia

Moscow, Russia is a stunning city that has amazing architecture, great food, and an extremely interesting history. The Kremlin is a complex that is open to the public and you can explore the buildings like Grand Kremlin Palace, Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower, Armoury Museum, Diamond Fund and State Kremlin Palace that area located inside. Be sure to also visit the Red Square and the stunning St. Basil’s Cathedral that was built in the 16th century. Take in a night of ballet at the opulent Bolshoi Theatre.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is the capital city of Croatia and this beautiful city is filled with stunning examples of and 18th and 19th Austrian Hungarian architecture. St. Mark’s Square and Ban Jelačić Square are great places to hang out and you can see fabulous architecture, do some shopping, and eat at fabulous cafes. Be sure to go to the Museum of Broken Relationships where you can see examples of devoted relationships that failed. Dolac Market is a great place to go to purchase and learn more about Croatian food. Be sure to head to Mount Medvednica that is filled with fabulous trails and caves that you can explore.

Havana, Cuba

If you’re planning on visiting Cuba, make sure you include Havana to your itinerary. It is a bustling city and you can explore the sites of the town by going for a ride in a vintage car. It is also a great city to explore on foot so that you can stop and explore without having to worry about parking. There are plenty of fabulous public squares, museums, cafes and bars that are a great place to rest after a day of sightseeing. Be sure to visit Habana Vieja, the old town, and see the military fortress of Castillo de la Real Fuerza and Catedral de San Cristobal, an excellent example of Baroque Architecture.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and it is known as the City of Baths. The city rests upon natural hot springs and there are bath houses throughout the city that you can soak your weary body in after a day of exploring. There are hundreds of museums and art galleries to explore so do a bit of research before you arrive in this fascinating city. Budapest is filled with great cafes and hookah bars so be sure to indulge before you leave. Make sure to go for a stroll or a bike ride along the Danube River.

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Cuba

#CocoLeeds: Greek Street gets an Asian fusion remix with Bar Soba

As official nomads, #TeamCoco have eaten all over the world. From authentic Pad Thai in Bangkok to Curried Goat in Jamaica, we’re not shy when it comes to trying hot and spicy concoctions from around the globe. Asian fusion is our girl Jenna’s favourite delicacy as it combines brave culture mixes with exceptional flavours. You’ve got to be a pretty confident chef to mix a Big Mac with Spring Roll, but Bar Soba has done just that and so much more. Moving to their new Leeds home on the infamous Greek Street, we sent Jenna to give her verdict on their latest offering. Also to answer the question, that after a rough ride on Merrion Street, has Soba had the right amount of remix or the right amount of bollocks to survive?

“I was really sad when Bar Soba closed on Merrion Street. It became a local of mine for late night dining, beer pong and even the occasional failed Tinder date. I really fell for their eclectic interior, laid back vibes and authentic Asian fusion that almost poked fun at everything I knew about Asian food. I really never understood why the Leeds venue shut its doors, but I was very excited when I heard about their comeback.

Playing with the big boys on arguably Leeds’ most frequented street, Bar Soba looks right at home. Sandwiched between Neighbourhood and The Liquorist, it’s definitely an in keeping addition to the circuit with it’s bright exterior and moody low-lit bar that encourages rendezvous. The neon signs are to be expected after the likes of Menagerie and Neighbourhood making this a staple in millennial venues, but does it really live up to it’s predecessors? I’m unsure. The food is ridiculously good, the interiors are nice but don’t blow you away as such. The toilets aren’t great, the staff are mostly uninformed – but I need to keep remembering that this was a quick turn around. It takes time for staff to learn such an extensive menu and to keep on top of their checks and sections and I was one of the first people in the building for them to get their teeth into. I don’t want to make straight comparisons, as Bar Soba and Neighbourhood are totally different venues. But at the end of the day, if you want to be cool/Instagrammable/the go-to place – at least endeavour that your servers know more than one recommendation and get your drinks to the table in 20 minutes or less.

Saying that, when the drinks arrived and the food followed, I was as happy as a pig in muck. Delving into a selection of their starters, the Head Chef got explaining about the carnation of the menu and a little bit about the Kitchen team. Described as a 100% Yorkshire kitchen serving up Asian fusion food, I love that it’s not stereotypical. Of course you can have your token Asian chef cooking up a storm in their bandana, but why not stay true to good honest cooking without any bullshit? I really got good vibes from the Head Chef and he really highlighted the fun element of the food and you could sense his passion.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, I love Asian fusion. From high-end venues such as Sumosan Twiga in Knightsbridge to making my own inventions at home, it’s such a fun way to eat and really keeps things interesting. What’s especially exciting about Bar Soba’s menu is just how extensive it really is. From a huge selection of small plates and sides (which is wonderful for me as a serial grazer) to your home-style favourites with a #SobaRemix – they’ve really hit the nail on the head with varied options.

Simply known as ‘Street Food’ their menu packs a punch without trying to be something it’s not. They’ve got your typical staple items such as Buttermilk Fried Chicken Katsu Curry and plenty of Ramen but they’ve shook it up with their original Bangkok Burger and Tiger Prawn and Avocado Shrimp Taco. So what can I honestly tell you is banging? Most things really, but if you don’t try the Cheeseburger Spring Rolls – you’ll regret it for the rest of your days. Not only a wonder cure for a hangover, it’s a genius combination that will have you wishing there was more than four to a portion. If you want to eat tapas style, it’s more than encouraged and there’s a lot for you to choose from. Their Korean Popcorn Chicken is a spicy take on the KFC favourite with a sticky sweet and sour glaze and their Tempura Tiger Prawns are exactly what you’re thinking – delish.

If you’re still hungry after all that protein, you’re totally spoilt for choice when it comes to their big plates. I was lucky enough to find somebody who wanted to split two mains (so we could try two that we both liked) so we got involved with the Crispy Shanghai Pork and the Salt & Pepper Fish Finger Sandwich. One thing I’ll genuinely say though, is that one main is definitely enough after all those starters and you will not need Thai Fries no matter how delicious they are. Save them for when you’re drunk on their cocktails and need something salty to counteract the booze.

Talking of booze, their cocktail collection is varied and mixes twisted classics with Asian influence. One of my favourite sections was Cold as Ice, which basically keeps their frozen Gin & Daiquiri serves on rotation. One day it may be a Peach infused frozen Gin cocktail, another day it may be a classic frozen Lime Daiquiri. Perfect for those spicy ribs and ramen. If you want to go more out there however, their Drumstick Caipirovska combines Vodka with the Cuban classic and a twist of British Nostalgia. I won’t give away too much, but the first word should give it away for those who are still listening. By night, this restaurant turns into a proper nightspot with Hip-Hop & RNB blasting out and the dancefloor full of Leeds who’s-who. It may not be London, it may not even be remotely Asia – but this place should definitely be added to your culinary and cocktail bucket list. “

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

6 Greek Street, Leeds, LS1 5RW | leeds@barsoba.co.uk

Open 12-late everyday of the week.

Bottomless Brunch | Asian Streetfood | Cocktails

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Australia

Behind the Brand : Aylin White

Aylin White Designs create beautiful bespoke, hand-painted, wedding gowns which truly reflect each bride’s personality and passions in life.

Here, we go behind the brand to find out more…

What is the reason you started your Hand Painted Wedding Gown brand?
Having spent several years living and working in China, I came back home to the UK looking for a new challenge. In China I had been surrounded by beautiful, individually created arts and crafts. In particular the use of hand painting with its uniqueness, gorgeous colours and intricate designs caught my attention. The Chinese love to paint on hats, coats, dresses, shoes etc. as well as on paper, and I couldn’t understand why no-one was hand painting on fabric here. I love things that are unique and handmade and these artistic inspirations have helped to start my hand painted wedding gown business.

What is your background?
My background is in children’s education. Teaching Montessori and the Early Years

Curriculum to children living in the UK and in International schools overseas. I have lived and worked in places across the globe from the USA to Australia. I have always been fascinated by handmade pieces of art and during my travels I have collected many beautiful and interesting objects from local artists.

What is the hardest challenge you have faced since you started the company?
The list is endless. I knew nothing about the business side of things when I started and next to nothing about social media. Everything has been a learning curve, from how to post images on Instagram and write blogs on Facebook, to where to buy fabric paints, have business cards printed and find artists who can paint on fabric…

If you could start over with the business, would you do anything differently?
I would attend some business courses, such as ‘How to start and run your own business’ which would have been very helpful. And I would definitely try to attend as many social media courses as I could, in the initial stages of setting up the business, as these are invaluable for networking and marketing the brand.

Tell us one fact about you that people wouldn’t know?
I’m a trained baby massage teacher.

Which city would you feel most at home in, London, Paris or New York?
London. I used to live in London and always feel excited and light-hearted as I enter the city.

Best thing about London to you?
The history, cultural diversity, and of course, the shopping.

Style means….
Looking your best and being comfortable in whatever you are wearing.

Statement shoe or statement bag?
At a push statement bag, but I prefer statement coat or jacket.

If you had to, what piece of clothing from your wardrobe would you wear every day?
My grey sloppy cashmere cardigan, which is so old it’s got holes in it.

Three beauty products you can’t leave the house without?
Lip slave, lipstick and face powder.

Favourite love song?
Kiss From a Rose by Seal – Is it a love song? No one’s really sure!

Best place for a coffee?
I don’t drink coffee, I’m a tea drinker. If I’m feeling extravagant it’s a pot of Twinings English Breakfast. But I am just as happy with a big mug of black PG Tips.

Most memorable piece of advice given to you?
If you see something you like and you can afford it, then buy it; as you may never see it again.

Advice from my Mother; taken when I was going on my first independent holiday, but where to put everything…

Guilty pleasure?
A packet of salt and vinegar crisps.

If you could spend 24 hours anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Somewhere new – I would love to go to Cuba.

Somewhere I have already been to – a warm sun soaked beach on a Greek Island.

In future, how do you plan on expanding the company?
I’m still in my early days with starting up Aylin White Designs, but I intend to make good use of all the opportunities that come my way to build up a successful business and brand.

Find out more…

Website: www.aylinwhitedesigns.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/aylinwhitedesigns

Instagram: www.instagram.com/aylinwhitedesigns

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/aylinwhitedesigns

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Cuba

Designer Spotlight : Ozoza Lifestyle

Ozoza Lifestyle, means Beautiful Lifestyle. The word “Ozoza” means beautiful in the Ebira language of Nigeria. The founders of Ozoza are Africans who wish to share the beautiful elements of African heritage with the rest of the world.

Here, we chat to the founders to find out more…

When did you launch the brand and what was the reason behind it?
We officially launched the brand in June 2017. Ozoza Lifestyle means Beautiful Lifestyle. The word “Ozoza” means beautiful in the Ebira language. Ozoza Lifestyle seeks to bring the alluring spirit of Africa to the world. Our contemporary collection of African home accessories, fashion accessories and artefacts reflect the Ozoza philosophy to preserve the traditional craftsmanship, skills and techniques from across the African continent. We felt that there are so many African stories to tell that haven’t been heard. We seek to do this through our products.

What’s your background?
I grew up travelling and living in various countries due to my father’s profession in the Foreign Service. I loved and still love travelling and learning about various cultures. I am a lawyer by profession and trained and worked in the City of London for many years with Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and Norton Rose Fulbright. Throughout my life, I have always been involved in and am still involved in developmental projects and the Creative Arts. Ozoza Lifestyle has enabled me to combine the two by working with artisans at a grass root level.

What is the hardest challenge you have faced since starting the Company?
Learning when to switch off. It’s still a work in progress. Slow progress.

Tell us one fact about you that people wouldn’t know
For about a year, I lived in a hut in the Rio Dulce region of the Guatemalan rainforest, whilst working for an NGO running a literacy program for Mayan Indian girls. It’s been one of the best years of my life so far. The work was immensely rewarding and the team was amazing.

2018 is here, where do you plan on taking the brand?
We are working very hard with our partners to make the Ozoza Lifestyle brand reach the international market, showing to the world the beauty and authenticity of Africa.

To date, what has been the highlight since launching?
So much happened since June, every little step is a step closer to where we want Ozoza Lifestyle to be. In October we launched at the British Museum in London, receiving outstanding feedback. With the support of the BBC journalist Asad Ahmad and Lord Poltimore of Sotheby’s auctioned various items from a beautiful selection of Ozoza Fashion, Lifestyle & Home Accessories for charity.

Which city do you feel most at home in, London, Paris or New York?
I love all three cities actually, but the city I have spent the most time in and feel most at home in is definitely London.

Style means….?
An authentic expression of oneself.

Best thing about London to you?
Its cosmopolitan nature

Statement Shoe or Statement Bag?
Statement Glasses

Favourite love song?
The love theme composed by Ennio Morricone for the film Cinema Paradiso. Incredibly moving piece.

Most memorable piece of advice given to you?
Focus on the positive and seize the day.

Guilty pleasure?
Dark chocolate with almonds. No guilt though.

If you could spent 24 hours in anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Deep-Sea diving off the coast of Zanzibar, then watching the sun set from the rooftops of Stone Town. It’s simply a magical place. Outside Africa, it would have to be Havana, Cuba because of its African spirit. I spent many years of my childhood there and loved the warmth and openness of the people as well as the sheer beauty of the place.

Find out more…

Website: www.ozozalifestyle.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ozozalifestyle

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ozozalifestyle

Twitter: www.twitter.com/ozozalifestyle

Snapchat: ozozalifestyle

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