Jason Parnell is an exceptional photographer who captured the climax of this magical routine perfectly. Photograph courtesy of Jason Parnell.
If you are currently organising your wedding, party or corporate event, Forever Green offers exceptional facilities. Nestled away in the idyllic location of Ransom Wood Park, the venue boasts a tranquil yet highly accessible environment for your next red letter day. This central location makes Forever Green an excellent choice for a very special occasion as it is so close to the urban areas of Mansfield, Nottingham and Newark, as well as being within 15 minutes drive of the M1 motorway.
Forever Green boasts a friendly approachable team who are committed to providing first class service. Photograph courtesy of Jason Parnell.
The events team provide a first class service, and I have been very fortunate to have entertained guests on several occasions at this fantastic venue. Indeed, I was delighted to be invited to perform magic at their Christmas market last December, and it truly was a day to remember. Forever Green promote a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to business, and have forged an excellent relationship with local enterprise. The festive market provided an opportunity for small business owners from around north Nottinghamshire to showcase their talents and fantastic services.
The Christmas Market was an exciting opportunity for local businesses and people to come together – some magic for the guests. Photograph courtesy of Jason Parnell.
Local photographer Jason Parnell was on hand to capture the fun and festive spirit. Jason is available for events and promotional shoots around Nottinghamshire and beyond. As well as being a wizard with the camera, Jason is also a friendly, approachable and highly professional gentleman. Indeed, I was delighted when he offered to provide some excellent photographs from the day to post in this blog article. For more details, visit Jason’s website at: www.jasonparnell.co.uk or phone Jason on: 07515313511.
To find out more about how to make your wedding, party or corporate event a magnificent occasion, visit Forever Green’s website at: www.forever-green or contact their exceptional events team on: 01623 675323.
For customised magic at any occasion, visit my website at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or phone me on: 07946686258.
It was fantastic to mingle and perform magic for scholars from as far afield as India, Vietnam, China and Kenya. The atmosphere was fantastic and the students were keen to discuss their studies as well as voice their appreciation for both university and city.
Lord Mayor Murphy of Sheffield was there to present the Scholarships and I was immensely privileged to share a little magic and humour with her after the ceremony. The city of Sheffield takes great pride in its cultural diversity and world class educational facilities.
Overall it was a magical evening at Sheffield Hallam University. Staff and students alike ensured the awards ceremony was a great success, and it provides a fantastic platform for the scholars to excel in their fields of study. Thank you again to everyone at Sheffield Hallam for making me so welcome and good luck with your current projects.
‘thank you for being part of our special day… you truly were amazing’
Tom and Sarah Shaw, Kelham House Hotel, 27th May 2017
I was delighted when Tom and Sarah asked me to perform magic on their special day at the beautiful Kelham House Country Manor Hotel near Newark. It is always a tremendous honour to be selected to entertain on a wedding day, and I was well aware of how meticulous the bride and groom had been in their preparations. Indeed, no stone was left unturned in order to ensure that their family and friends would be treated to a truly magical occasion.
Arriving in style. Sarah looks outstanding before the ceremony. Luxury wedding cars provided by: www.redroseweddingcarhire.co.uk
On arriving at Kelham House Hotel, the party was in full swing. Tom and Sarah had requested that I perform magic after the wedding breakfast throughout the early evening reception. This was an excellent time to ‘mix-and-mingle’ with guests and provide close-up magic both inside the bar area and around the extensive grounds of the venue. One of the highlights was undoubtedly performing a special routine for the newlyweds which culminated with a magical bottle of Champagne!
It was magnificent to perform intimate close-up effects for Tom and Sarah’s friends and family
The idyllic Kelham House Country Manor Hotel was the perfect venue for such a momentous occasion. As well as boasting exceptional event facilities, the wedding party can also stay in the luxury bedrooms. The convivial staff at the hotel are always a joy to work with and ensured that Tom, Sarah and their guests were very well taken care of. To find out more about this tremendous location, visit the website at: www.kelhamhouse.co.uk or contact Fran or Grace, the excellent Wedding and Events Team, on 01636 705266.
The tremendously talented photographer Mark Walker was on hand to capture everything.
A wedding day requires a dynamic, diligent and dependable photographer to immortalise those special moments. Sarah and Tom had called upon the gifted Mark Walker to perform these duties, and he did so with aplomb. Mark formed a wonderful rapport with the guests and ensured that the essence of the day was captured for eternity. Indeed, the photographs in this very article illustrate his tremendous talents. Visit Mark’s website: www.markwalkerphotography.net or call him now on: 01623 825109.
Sarah and Tom created a warm family atmosphere on the day with their choice of suppliers and it was fantastic to see the children enjoying themselves.
It is always fantastic to see children at weddings, and I enjoy entertaining them as well as the adults. Tom and Sarah went to great lengths to ensure the younger guests had a fantastic time and their choice of suppliers was very impressive to say the least. The innovative Hucksters Firepot were there to amuse the little ones and provide outstanding face painting. Visit their website: huckstersfirepot.co.uk or phone on: 0795 457 3305. Everyone loves a bouncy castle – even the adults – and Bounceabout Inflatables provided hours of fun for everyone in the garden. Find out more about them at: www.bounceaboutnewark.co.uk or phone on: 07855 955474. Truly an amazing addition to a unique day.
The cutting of the cake. And what a cake it is! Created by Choccywoccydoodah Cakes.
A sensational selection of confectionery ensured that Tom and Sarah’s guests could indulge themselves accordingly. Even Willy Wonka would have struggled to have produced such a fine array of tasty treats! The tremendous wedding cake was provided by Choccywoccydoodah. Their website is: www.choccywoccydoodah.com, telephone number: 01273 329 426. The Little Cupcake Company of Mansfield delivered an astonishing assortment of mouthwatering delights: TheLittleCupcakeComp13. telephone number: 07850 560883. It was lovely to meet David Allwood too during the evening reception and share a little magic with him. David is the affable owner of Pure Chocolate Indulgence and created a wonderful doughnut stand for Tom and Sarah’s guests to enjoy. David’s website is: www.pure-chocolate-indulgence.co.uk or phone him today on: 07427668997. Bliss Chair Covers also provided a chocolate fountain which went down a storm with the guests. Guests with a sweet tooth could also be found congregating around the magical sweet cart assembled by Simply Sweet Cart Hire. They also crafted stunning Ferrero Rocher displays. Website: www.simplysweetcarthire.co.uk and telephone number: 0771 906 6384.
The first dance is a special moment. DJ and love letters by Diverse Entertainments
Tom and Sarah’s choice of exceptional suppliers ensured that Kelham House Hotel was looking incredibly elegant and vibrant on their big day. Diverse Entertainments create bespoke packages for all sorts of events, and the dance floor, lighting and love letters created a stunning mise-en-scene for Mr and Mrs Shaw’s first dance. Website: www.diverse-entertainments.co.uk, phone number: 01636 643720. Bliss Chair Covers provided elegant table and chair decor, as well as a photo booth and chocolate fountain. Find them at: www.blisschaircovers.co.uk or phone now: 07850 178030. A wedding day would not be complete without flowers, and the exquisite Flower Barn ensured that enchanting arrangements adorned the venue. Their website is: www.flower-barn.co.uk and can be contacted on: 01636 679779.
Kelham House Country Manor Hotel looked vibrant on Tom and Sarah’s wedding day.
As you can see from the wonderful photographs, Sarah looked radiant for her wedding day. The exceptional Maxine Holland was the beautiful bride’s make-up artist and more details can be found about Maxine on this link: www.facebook.com/maxinehollandmua
Sarah looked stunning for the big day. Maxine Holland who is based in Sheffield was make-up artist for the wedding.Elegant high heels fit for a princess to walk down the aisle. Courtesy of Jimmy Choo.
It truly was a wonderful wedding to be part of and I will always consider myself to be very fortunate to have been part of Tom and Sarah’s special day. I wish them both health and happiness for the future, and do hope that I will have the opportunity to entertain them and their fantastic family and friends again in the future.
Congratulations Tom and Sarah.
The author of the article is professional magician David Fox. The winner of the 2014 Wedding Industry Experts Awards, David performs his unique brand of magic at weddings throughout the UK and beyond. Visit his website at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or phone him today on: 07946 686 258. For Facebook updates and testimonials, please do ‘like’ and follow: www.facebook.com/MagicianMidlands.
The venue boasts a cafe, shop, magical museum and theatre too. Fans of mystery, intrigue and illusion will be delighted by this incredible experience. Indeed, the magical quiz visitors can participate in around the fantastic museum is fun for all age groups!
I have always found the staff to be extremely warm and welcoming at The Magic Alley & The World of Wizard’s Thatch. Whenever I visit Stratford-Upon-Avon, I now make a point of popping in to say hello.
David was delighted to share a little bit of magic with Barry at the Magic Alley. The staff are always exceptional.
Only a stone’s throw from Shakespeare’s birthplace on Henley Street, you will enjoy a wonderful time. Visit their website now at: www.seekthemagic.org or phone on: 01789 290969.
For more information about magician David Fox visit his website at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or phone him on: 07946 686 258.
Click on the link to see David performing magic around Stratford-Upon-Avon and at The Magic Alley: David Fox Magician
‘What can I say about your stunning performance on Sunday?!’
Teresa Greener
It was a tremendous pleasure and a great privilege to perform magic at Teresa Greener’s special birthday party at Pendley Manor in Tring, Hertfordshire. I have been very fortunate to have worked with Teresa before at important events she has organised with the Royal British Legion – most notably HRH Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in London. As Head of Special Events and Philanthropy, Mrs Greener certainly knows how to meticulously organise and coordinate a wonderful occasion, and her fantastic birthday bash at this splendid venue was no exception to the rule.
Pendley Manor Hotel was the perfect setting for such a monumental celebration, and guests travelled from all over the world to share Teresa’s day. Not only does the hotel boast exceptional function suites and catering facilities, it is famous for the annual Shakespeare Festival which has taken place in its grounds since the 1940s.
The exceptional Sheila Watts, Harpist.
The guests were treated to a trinity of prodigious musical talents. During arrival drinks and canapes, the immaculate melodies of harpist Sheila Watts enchanted and enthralled everyone present. After the meal, the Sugar Sisters took centre stage and delivered a spellbinding performance. The mercurial trio have developed a cult following since appearing on Terry Wogan’s radio show and captivated everyone present. Afterwards, the world-renowned Joe Stilgoe provided the perfect finale to a phenomenal day. A popular Jazz musician who has entertained both Prince Charles and Prince Phillip, his sublime set went down a treat with Teresa’s guests.
The Sugar Sisters with the late great Sir Terry Wogan
In the presence of such wonderful talent, it truly was fantastic to perform close-up magic throughout the drinks reception and meal for everyone present. I was also delighted that Teresa requested that I perform a thirty minute parlour show of magic, illusion and intrigue after lunch. Indeed, it is always fantastic when the event organiser invests such a degree of trust in me on such an important occasion. It was a real pleasure to entertain such a lovely group of family and friends, and I was delighted to receive such a terrific reaction.
Joe Stilgoe is a tremendous talent.
I wish Teresa all the very best for the future and do hope to see her again soon. For anyone who wishes to assist or contribute to the Royal British Legion, please visit their website at: www.britishlegion.org.uk or alternatively you can contact Teresa at: 020 3207 2275. Email: tgreener@britishlegion.org.uk
I was very fortunate to meet motivational speaker John Hotowka at Lisa and Jon’s wedding reception at Stoke Rochford Hall in June. John provides insightful and inspirational advice to many of the top companies throughout the UK. Drawing on his extensive business knowledge and skills, his much lauded ‘Achievement Thinking’ has permitted his clients to maximise potential and achieve their goals.
It was great to meet John at Lisa and Jon’s wedding at Stoke Rochford Hall
John also performed for many years as a highly successful close-up magician, so I was delighted when he offered me some excellent tips and advice. It is always a great privilege to meet a seasoned performer, and I am always extremely appreciative for any assistance as I strive to develop and improve my repertoire and delivery.
A man of many talents, John has authored a book entitled ‘Everything You Wanted To Know About Table-Hoping But Were Afraid To Ask’. This extensive and thoughtful publication is packed with tremendous advice on how to survive, develop and succeed in the challenging world of close-up magic. John shares useful anecdotes, routines and insider information which will really help all levels of magician. Indeed, he very kindly posted a copy of his book to me and I will forever be very thankful to him for this.
A close-up magician will face many challenges. John addresses these and offers invaluable advice.
To find out more about John and how he can assist you and your company, visit his website at: www.hotowka.co.uk or phone him now: 01274 685152.
Thanks again John, it was a real pleasure and I wish we had more time to chat. I hope to see you again in the future.
Are you a first-time buyer looking for a stylish new table or chairs? Perhaps you are a student or landlord sprucing up your flat? Or maybe you simply have a love for unique and quirky furnishings?
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Exaireo Furniture Project of ‘The Loft’, Oaks Industrial Estate, Loughborough provide an exciting new service. They specialise in restoring an extensive range of furnishings whilst providing essential assistance to homeless people in the area.
Every magician needs a card table! An exceptional fully restored card table from Exaireo.
The dramatic rise of homelessness over the past decade is one of the tragedies of our times, and it is comforting to know that Exaireo work tirelessly to help those who find themselves in this position. If you purchase an item of furniture from Exaireo, you will not just be making an exceptional acquisition, you will in fact be providing much needed assistance to the local community.
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Why not pop in today to find out how Exaireo can offer you some interesting options for your home, office or flat? Their address is: Unit 4, Oaks Industrial Estate, Festival Drive, Loughborough, LE11 5XN. See map below.
The Loft is a short drive from Loughborough town centre. The red cross marks the spot.
Are you seeking that elusive novel you’ve wanted for years? Perhaps you are a student who requires academic texts at an affordable price? Or maybe you simply relish the opportunity to disentangle yourself from the stresses of daily life and become sublimely immersed in an extensive array of literary delights?
Situated at 203 Mansfield Road, NG1 3FS, Jermy & Westerman have been offering an exceptional family service since 1978. You can always expect a very warm welcome, coupled with expert advice, from Geoff, Richard and their staff. The bookshop is well within striking distance of Nottingham city centre and is an excellent resource for students of Nottingham’s universities and colleges.
The red cross marks the position of Jermy & Westerman at 203 Mansfield Road, NG1 3FS. It is a five minute walk from The Victoria Centre (black cross).
I have always been amazed by the range of texts on offer. From classic literature to study guides, biographies to rare collectors items, and annuals to comic books, you will be sure to find what you are looking for. Indeed, as an English teacher and freelance writer, I have found the shop to be invaluable over the years.
You will find an extensive range of texts on offer at the shop.
Opening hours are: 11am to 5pm from Monday to Saturday. However, the bookshop sometimes hosts special events such as poetry readings and talks. For more information why not click the links below.
If you are planning a trip to Paris soon, why not pay a visit to the Musée de la Magie? It truly is one of La Ville Lumière’s hidden gems, and I was very fortunate to pass many a magical moment there when I lived in Paris.
Located on Rue St Paul in the fashionable Marais, the museum boasts a magic school, theater and shop.
The French contribution to the art of prestidigitation has been considerable. Robert Houdin (1805 – 1871) is said to be the ‘father of modern magic’ and famously performed an impressive illusion to quell insurrection during French rule in Algeria. Indeed, it was most interesting to see this very effect resurrected on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ recently. The Hungarian-American magician Ehrich Weiss was so inspired by the French master that he took his name, becoming none other than the great Harry Houdini!
A veritable Alladin’s cave of magic and mystery. Step into an amazing world beneath the streets of old Paris…
Located at 11 Rue Saint Paul in the bohemian 4th arrondissement, the museum provides an enjoyable and unique experience. Even those with just a passing interest in magic will find much to amuse and enthrall. Visitors can either participate in a guided tour of the museum or peruse the extensive array of memorabilia at their leisure. A first class performance of legerdemain then follows in the theater – provided by one of the exceptional resident magicians. Both young (and not-so-young) spectators will be treated to classic illusions, card manipulation and sleight-of-hand delivered with inimitable wit, skill and Gaulish charm.
The red cross marks the area where the museum is located – just a stone’s throw from Notre Dame Cathedral on the right bank.
The museum also boasts a well stocked magic shop, which vends hand made effects and novelties, as well as a magic school for those inclined to study and learn more. I have personally always found the resident magicians and staff at the Musee de la Magie to be extremely courteous, enthusiastic and helpful whenever I have had the pleasure to pay a visit.
The 14th arrondissement is a vibrant area on the right bank.
Opening hours are: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 2pm to 7pm. However, the theater is normally accessible during local school and public holidays too. Visit the website for more details: www.museedelamagie.com. Current tariffs for entry are: adults – 10 Euros, and children – 8 Euros. It is well worth a visit if you happen to be in the area.
The stunning Cathedral of Notre Dame is close by. Why not pop into the museum next time you visit Paris?
Are you planning a special occasion in the future and require magic for your event? Visit David Fox’s website at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or phone/text him: 07946 686 258.
‘Your magic was absolutely amazing and the tricks were just impossible’
Joy Green (Darren’s Mum) December 2016
It is always a massive privilege to be invited to perform magic in someone’s house, and I was delighted when Joy asked me to perform magic at her son Darren’s 50th birthday bash in Peterborough. Indeed, providing an entertaining show in such conditions is the ultimate test for the magician. The opportunity to demonstrate my craft in such an intimate setting and in such close proximity to the audience is truly wonderful. Furthermore, I am also very humbled when someone like Joy invests such a high degree of trust in me to interact with their nearest and dearest in the family home.
When travelling to a house party, the same things always pop up in my mind… I hope that the family and guests will like me and we can quickly strike up a positive rapport… My show has been prepared thoroughly, but will everyone enjoy it and respond as I anticipate? How will I react if we have to alter the schedule in any way? Will there be more or less people present than we originally thought? Sometimes things can change quickly when it comes to such special events and my job is to be flexible and accommodating.
It is always fantastic to entertain all age groups at a house party. The magic should appeal to everyone present.
On arrival, my pre-performance worries quickly evaporated when I received a tremendously warm welcome from Joy, Darren and their family and friends. I immediately and instinctively knew that this was going to be a very special party to remember. Darren’s guests were clearly ready and primed for a parlour show of magic with a difference.
Having discussed the schedule in detail with Joyce beforehand, I had created a show which encompassed card magic, sleight-of-hand, illusion, mind-reading and classic visual effects with plenty of audience participation. I felt that this type of performance and strategy would be suitable for both the adults and children present. Indeed, my philosophy is that it is vital to include all of the guests present (from the youngest to the not so youngest) when entertaining at any special occasion.
Darren’s family and friends were fantastic. They made me feel instantly welcome and helped make the magic work!
It truly was a massive pleasure and a privilege to entertain such a lovely group of people. After the grand finale, and having had the opportunity to chat and get to know everyone, I truly considered myself very fortunate to have been part of Darren’s special birthday celebrations. Indeed, I would like to say ‘thank you’ again to Joy for calling upon my services and to her family and friends for making me so welcome. ‘Happy birthday’ once more to Darren and I do hope I have the opportunity to see you and everyone again in the future. Best wishes from David.
For more details about how David can make your house party extra special visit his website at: David Fox Magic.
