Author: davidfoxmagicblog

Award winning magician who is based in the UK and travels throughout the world performing his unique brand of magic. Customised packages can be crafted for all types of special events from weddings to promotions. Visit David's website: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or phone him on: 07946 686 258.

Wedding Rings and Superstition

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The Russian Prince Urussoff was a worried man indeed. Whilst honeymooning on the Black Sea, his wife’s wedding ring slipped from her finger and vanished beneath the waves. Deeply distressed, the nobleman solemnly recalled the family superstition that the loss of a wedding ring would inevitably lead to the break-up of the marriage. What could he do to reverse such ill fortune?

After much deliberation, the Prince decided to purchase both shores of the Black Sea from several hundred owners. Despite paying approximately $40 million, he reasoned that if he owned the entire sea, he also laid claim to everything in it – which included his wife’s wedding ring.

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The superstitious Prince purchased the entire 168,500 square miles of the Black Sea

It is small wonder that something as special as the wedding ring has become an object of mystery, intrigue and superstition. Rings have been utilised as potent symbols of alliances, oaths and matrimony since time immemorial. The ancient Egyptians venerated the ring as the sacred symbol of eternity.  They chose to place a wedding band on the third finger as they believed this contained an artery which ran directly to the heart – a custom we continue to observe in modern times.

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Rings have been a symbol of marriage, fidelity and allegiance since Ancient Egyptian times

Superstitions associated with wedding rings vary through time and space. In parts of medieval Europe, dropping the ring during the ceremony was said to be a good omen which warded off evil spirits. However, in other cultures this was looked upon less favourably. If the ring was too tight, it was a warning that your partner would become overbearing and the marriage would fail. The inverse – a loose fitting wedding band -implied a very high probability of infidelity.

Incredibly, wedding rings are one of the few personal items inmates in prison are permitted to retain at all times. Such a demonstration of their power helps to maintain the universal superstition that the loss of a ring is a terrible omen indeed. But what of Prince Urussoff? Did he manage to outwit fate?

His marriage appears to have been successful and, what’s more, the loss of the ring proved to be extremely lucrative for his family. After the Prince died, his heirs sold the Black Sea for $80 million – securing a handsome profit.

The author of the article is David Fox. Visit his website at: David Fox Magic.

An Evening with the Shadow Master at Winderton Church, Warwickshire

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The Church of St Peter and St Paul, Winderton, Brailes, South Warwickshire

I was delighted when Carole Foster invited me to perform magic at the beautiful church of St Peter and St Paul in Winderton, South Warwickshire. This elegant Victorian edifice has been cherished by the local populace for over a century and continues to be utilised for special events. Despite being declared ‘redundant’ in 1976, the community rallied and conserved the building for future generations to enjoy – a truly tremendous testimony to their collective spirit.

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Ready for the show. The local community have worked hard to preserve this fantastic building.

This was to be a mysterious night of magic, ghostly tales and shadowgraphy. The locals were treated to the exceptional knowledge of Civil War expert Martin Russell. Dressed as a seventeenth century soldier, Martin recounted the details of the Battle of Edgehill, which was fought close to Winderton, on 23rd October 1642. This would mark the start of the First English Civil War, and the ghosts of the fallen are still said to haunt the highways and byways of the county…

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Drew Colby is an exceptional master of his art!
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Drew’s shadowgraphy has to be seen to be fully appreciated and enjoyed! Incredible talent!

Shadow master Drew Colby was also on hand to mesmerise everyone with his incredible talents. As a professional hand shadowgrapher, Drew amazes audiences throughout the world, and his exceptional act has to be seen to be fully appreciated. The Winderton audience was captivated from start to finish by his wonderful performance, and his unique interpretation of ‘The Highwayman’ was truly breathtaking. Find out more about Drew now at: www.shadowgraphy.co.uk

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Stage magic is always a pleasure to perform, as well as close-up.
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It truly was a fantastic family event in Winderton. Thanks again to everyone.

It was a tremendous privilege to share a stage with Martin and Drew, and to perform magic for such a warm and friendly audience at Winderton. Thank you again to everyone in the village for making it such a magical occasion, and I do hope to have the opportunity to return in the future. A special thanks to Carole Foster for both directing the event, and for being such an outstanding Master of Ceremonies.

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David Fox is a professional magician and freelance writer who is based in the East Midlands. His website is: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk and his telephone number is: 07946686258.

 

Carriages Cafe, Newark – Distinctive Dining That’s First Class

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A tranquil and friendly cafe. Visit Carriages when you are next in Newark.

Newark Castle Station is one of the most vibrant transport hubs in the East Midlands, and it now boasts a truly exceptional dining facility. Carriages Cafe provides a first class service from within the elegant interior of the station building.

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There is ample space for functions such as parties, business events and club nights.

The friendly team are now serving an extensive range of hot and cold beverages, as well as a mouth-watering array of delicious meals and snacks, from 7.30pm to 5pm Monday to Friday, and 8pm to 5pm on Saturday. Why not pop in for a tasty treat when you are next in the area? The cafe is perfectly situated for local business people, commuters and visitors to enjoy.

Suzie Jones has invested much time and effort in restoring and enhancing the beautiful building. Her fantastic artwork is on display throughout the cafe and function room, and has created an enchantingly magical ambiance. Relax and watch the world go by at Carriages… but make sure you don’t miss your train!

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Suzie’s elegant artwork adorns the walls of Carriages and it has a truly unique character.

The venue also offers ample function space for social events, business promotions and family gatherings. With plenty of parking space available, contact Suzie and the team now to find out more about how you can make your next red letter day function in Newark one to savour. Their website is: www.carriagesnewark.co.uk Telephone number: 01636 676129.

David Fox is a professional entertainer and freelance writer who lives in Nottingham. Website: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk  Telephone number: 07946 686 258.

 

Happy Birthday Helen and Su!

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Su and Helen hosted a very special birthday party with a difference!

I was profoundly flattered when Su Roys asked me to perform magic at a very special birthday party at the West Retford Hotel, Nottinghamshire, in December 2017. I first met Su at the offices of Siren FM, Lincoln, two years ago and I was delighted that my magic had left a lasting impression. Su and her twin sister Helen celebrated a very important birthday this year, and I was very privileged to be part of the proceedings.

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The sisters greet their guests in the wonderful surroundings of the West Retford Hotel.

The sisters had selected a wonderful venue for their celebrations. Situated in close proximity to the major A1 artery, the West Retford Hotel is perfect for parties, weddings and corporate functions. Indeed, Alice and the exceptional events team at the hotel ensured that Helen and Su’s birthday bash went down a storm!

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It was an immense pleasure to entertain Su and Helen’s lovely family and friends.

I am a very fortunate man to be invited to such momentous occasions. It truly was a tremendous experience to perform close-up magic and table-side illusions for Su and Helen’s nearest and dearest. In this fast-paced internet age we seldom have the opportunity to gather friends and family together to celebrate – so this was definitely a moment to savour. The sisters are blessed with a lovely group of relatives, and the exceptional Alistair Crust (Su and Helen’s brother) and his fiancée Holly Hardman were on hand to capture everything on camera!

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All generations came together to celebrate Su and Helen’s very special birthday.

After a fantastic meal, everyone present was treated to the prodigious talents of vocalist Dan Hadfield. This certainly was a birthday party with a difference and all the guests – from the youngest to the eldest – had an amazing time!

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The sensational Dan Hadfield ensured everyone was dancing well into the evening.

Happy birthday Helen and Su – and hopefully I will have the opportunity to entertain you again soon. Thank you for calling upon my services, and I wish you both all the very best for the future.

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Bridget, Su and Helen share some magic together.

The West Retford Hotel’s website is: www.westretfordhotel.co.uk

Hotel telephone number: 01777 706333

Dan Hadfield’s website is: www.garybarlowlookalike.com

For magic at your special event visit: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk

Stubton Hall – Winter Showcase – 9th December 2017 – 3pm – 6pm

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If you are planning a wedding or special event with a difference, make sure you visit Stubton Hall on 9th December for their spectacular Winter Showcase. The venue has established an exceptional reputation, and has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. Jess and her fantastic events team will be on hand during the day to guide you around the hall and respond to any of your queries.

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Spacious and elegant banqueting facilities make Stubton Hall a popular choice for brides and a tremendous venue for magic! Photograph courtesy of Paul Massey

Located close to both the major A1 artery and the historic town of Newark, Stubton Hall boasts idyllic grounds, elegantly restored banqueting facilities, and first class accommodation for you and your guests. It has been a tremendous privilege to have performed at so many fantastic events here over the past few years. The events team are masters at ensuring excellence, and every bride and groom I have performed magic for have always been delighted with the exquisite level of service.

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A special magical effect for Steve and Sophie, August 2016. Captured by the fantastic Paul Massey.

I have had the pleasure to have worked with many fantastic suppliers at Stubton Hall. The immaculate photographer Paul Massey, who is based in Lincoln, very kindly provided photographs from Steve and Sophie’s wedding at Stubton Hall in August 2016. Ever the consummate professional, Paul will ensure all of those special moments are captured on your wedding day. Paul’s website is: www.masseyphotography.co.uk

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Visit Stubton Hall’s website at: www.stubtonhall.co.uk

Telephone number: 01636 626187

The winter showcase runs from 3pm to 6pm.

David Fox provides customised magic and entertainment for all sorts of special events. Visit his new website at: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk

For a magician in Newark: Magician Newark 

David’s Telephone number: 07946 686 258

Magic, Hospitality and Networking at Harts Hotel, Nottingham

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Harts Hotel in Nottingham has developed an exceptional reputation over the past few years. The winner of numerous awards for exceptional service and cuisine, Harts is the first choice venue for business people visiting the city.

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In October the hotel hosted RSVIP’s networking event. This is an opportunity for business people from around the city and three counties to come together. Fiona Duncan has been organising such gatherings for several years now and they are always a tremendous success. Visit RSVIP’s website at: https://rsvipnetwork.co.uk/

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Networking is vital for small to medium sized businesses, and Fiona has helped new businesses thrive and develop with her unique service. The possibility to meet potential clients, suppliers and business experts can provide a tremendous boost to any enterprise.

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Exceptional local photographer Louise Mills was on hand to capture the event. Louise is in high demand for weddings, corporate functions and promotional shoots. Visit her website today at: http://www.louisemillsphotography.co.uk/

Why not contact Harts Hotel for your next special event in Nottingham? Their website is: https://www.hartsnottingham.co.uk/ and/or contact the events team on: 0115 988 1900.

David Fox is a professional magician based in Nottingham who performs throughout the world. His local website is: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk

Christmas Competition – Win a Magic Set!

Win this amazing magic set for Christmas!

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Do you want to be the next Dynamo or David Copperfield? Amaze your friends and family this Christmas with some incredible magic! We’re giving away this amazing magic set with over 300 great tricks and illusions!

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Magic is fun and this magic set will help you learn and perform some fantastic effects!!

To enter the competition, ‘like’ us on Facebook and just answer the following question…

What is the name of the man who is famous for bending spoons who appears on the home page of David’s new website? www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk

Simply send your answer to us, along with your name, email address, postal address and mobile number, through the Contact Page on David’s website.

Don’t forget to ‘like’ and follow us on Facebook too for regular updates! – We will announce the winner here!! www.facebook.com/davidfoxmagician

The prize draw will be made at midday on Monday 4th December 2017.

Terms and conditions: 1. You must be over 16 to enter 2. You must live in the UK 3. The draw will be made on 4th December 2017 at midday and the winner will be notified by email. Our decision is final, and the magic set will be posted by special delivery once the winner has responded to us.

Good Luck!

Sponsor a Tree For Age UK

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Age UK Nottingham and Nottinghamshire are celebrating their 75th birthday this year and have set a target of planting 750 trees across the county. The project will help to provide invaluable support for the elderly as well as enhancing Robin Hood’s countryside for future generations.

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Well known for their shops around the county, Age UK provide invaluable support.

The charity offers a range of vital services for older people throughout Nottinghamshire and has helped to empower thousands. Age UK recognises that independence, dignity and personal development do not stop when we decide to retire.

Indeed, the highly innovative ‘Men In Sheds’ project has been a great success. Elderly men now have the opportunity to share and learn new skills whilst making a valuable contribution to the local community. Society as a whole can benefit massively when the older generation is allowed to shine.

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Sponsor a tree for Age UK. Provide a positive legacy for the future.

I think it is a tremendous idea and I am well aware of the fantastic contribution Age UK make. My friend Maggie Ross MBE works for the charity and recently told me about their plans. The last time I had the good fortune to work with Maggie was when she organised an exceptional Great Gatsby themed ball at the Walton Hotel. It was a fantastic success and raised considerable funds for Age UK.

Age UK are inviting the public to sponsor a tree. If you would like to participate in this very worthy cause, the free phone number is 0800 088 6349 or send an email to getinvolved@ageuknotts.org.uk

Shade Bridal – West Bridgford, Nottingham

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Look stunning on your wedding day with Shade Bridal of Nottingham. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography.

‘Jessica and Natalie were generous, patient and professional throughout’

Jane Paulson, Bride, August 2017

Every bride expects a dream wedding dress for her special day, and Shade Bridal of Nottingham spcecialise in making dreams come true. Expert advice, exceptional customer service, and a magical myriad of beautiful bridal gowns are available for brides-to-be in the East Midlands.

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Elegance, class and perfection… Shade Bridal are exceptional. Photograph courtesy of Jay Glenn Photography

Managed by Jessica Beard, Shade Bridal’s boutique is located at 100 Melton Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 6EP. The door is always open, and Jessica boasts an impressive CV having worked with Harvey Nichols in London. You can rest assured that you are dealing with the experts when you place your trust in Shade Bridal.

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Meticulous attention to detail is one of the many hallmarks of Shade Bridal.

Visit their website now at: www.shadebridal.co.uk

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Telephone number: 0115 982 2820

Address: 2b, 100 Melton Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 6EP

Contact Jessica and the team now to ensure you have the ideal wedding dress for your special day.

The author of the article is David Fox a professional entertainer and freelance writer based in Nottingham, UK. Visit his website at: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk