Local Hero: Clan Artisan

by | Jan 23, 2018 | Blog

Clan Artisan is a busy, sparkling little company based in Stirling. It’s owned by Jen McEwan and Karen Merayo. The partnership specialises in creating luxury food hampers and corporate gifts that truly reflect the finest food that’s produced here in Scotland. But it’s far more than just a hamper business. Clan Artisan is all about reconnecting the consumer with the creator, and putting the love back into food. Clan Artisan is our Local Hero this month, and we spoke to Jen McEwan to learn more.

Clan Artisan hampers: sourced, wrapped and delivered with love

Clan Artisan hampers: sourced, wrapped and delivered with love

With 'build your own' hamper, you can add Scottish treats of your choice

With ‘build your own’ hamper, you can add Scottish treats of your choice

Family life

Partners Jen and Karen are full of enthusiasm, though it’s not been a straightforward road to success. Mums to five and three children respectively, there’s the commitments of family life to juggle too: “We had been planning Clan Artisan for almost a year when we officially launched our website on 28 November 2017. This was much later than we had originally anticipated. It’s unbelievable the number of pitfalls you encounter when setting up a business.” But it’s family life that is one the of the drivers behind the business. “We want our children to know where the foods they eat come from, and when a real person has made them. That it is important to support small businesses and the local economy. That’s just the way of Clan Artisan; it’s all about family”.

Business opportunity

Jen’s background in running the Wee Kitchen Company had given her a grounding in the food business, where she’d seen potential for further growth but couldn’t take the step alone: “I have always tried to support other small producers through The Wee Kitchen Company and had done hampers on a small scale. But it proved difficult to both make my own jam and create hampers. Doing it alone was a nightmare! I opened a pop-up shop a couple of years ago over Christmas and the demand was really high – overwhelming, in fact. So, I knew there was a good business there, but I didn’t want to go it all alone. I met Karen through our children, we got chatting about work, and both wanted a new challenge. It was then that we decided to set up Clan Artisan together.”

Quality products

When asked which product they are most proud of, Jen compliments all their producers, though adds “we do have a Clan Artisan cheese board that was made especially for us, we love that!” Jen’s jams are also amongst the company’s top sellers, so her range of table-top condiments, jams and relishes made from the finest seasonal ingredients are here to stay.

Supporting small business

High quality, locally sourced foods are one thing, but it’s perhaps the company’s ethos that gives it that added edge against competitors: “I’ve met most of our producers over the years through doing events with The Wee Kitchen Company,” explains Jen, “so we like to think of them as our friends, not just people who supply us. It’s all about helping and supporting each other. We are hoping to have a Clan Artisan gathering very soon with all our producers, so they can meet and chat and offer advice to each other. Then, our tag line will be coming true … It’s time for the gathering … come join the clan.”

Jen's savoury jams and accompaniments are best-sellers

Jen’s savoury jams and accompaniments are best-sellers

You'll find innovative food creations too, like superfood IQ chocolate

You’ll find innovative food creations too, like superfood IQ chocolate

More information:

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Hygge happiness: it’s time to embrace the chill

by | Oct 10, 2017 | Blog

Recent research claims that the Danish are actually the happiest people on the planet, and it’s all down to ‘hygge’. Loosely pronounced ‘hoo-gah’, this term roughly translates to a cosiness of the soul, or contented mindfulness. Hygge is an appreciation of simple pleasures, embracing indulgence, cherishing yourself, and living in the moment. It’s one of the reasons the Danish thrive, even through tough winters. So, now that the mercury’s falling, why not discover hygge in Stirling?

October: time to embrace the season the Danish way
October: time to embrace the season the Danish way
When you've done something worthy, coming home to this is even better

See Doug Scott at the Albert Halls, Stirling, and check out the menu at Henderson’s Bistro, too

Stretch your mind

There’s nothing more in keeping with hygge than listening to an inspiring talk in a beautiful theatre – it’s all about coming in from the cold night to the warmth, the plush seats, the massage of your intellect, and that glass of wine at interval. Here are a couple of ideas to inspire you:

Tamed, with Professor Alice Roberts is at the The Macrobert, Stirling on 17 October. How do you tame wildness? Join Alice Roberts as she delves into archaeology, history and genetics to reveal the amazing stories of the species that became our allies. From dogs, cattle and horses to wheat, potatoes and apples, find out how taming all these species has left its mark on them – and us. For more information, visit: http://macrobertartscentre.org/event/tame-with-alice-roberts-/

Doug Scott: Crawling Down the Ogre is presented at the Albert Halls on 26 October. Doug Scott’s greatest adventure is undoubtedly his first ascent, accident and then escape from The Ogre, the most difficult of the world’s high mountains. In 1977 Doug Scott and Chris Bonington made the first ascent. While abseiling off the summit, Doug slipped on ice, breaking both legs just above the ankles, before suffering broken ribs and pneumonia. It took eight days to reach Base Camp – made possible only by the selfless support of Clive Rowland and Mo Anthoine. For more information, visit: http://culturestirling.org/events/doug-scott-crawling-ogre/

Outdoors

Wrap up warm, see your breath on the air, and pack up your family to embrace hygge outdoors too. And get the slow-cooker on for your return home.

The Woodland Light Experience is a brilliant family-friendly event in central Scotland, just a short drive from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth. ‘Reflections’ is an all new light and sound show for 2017. Set in a private woodland near Balfron, on the edge of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, the trees and dark autumn skies are the natural backdrop to a magical theatre of light and colour. Explore the woodland paths at night, illuminated with stunning lighting effects and installations. For more information, visit: http://www.woodlandexperiences.co.uk/light-experience/

Bo’ness and Kinneil Steam Gala on 21-22 October promises a nostalgic weekend of steam and spectacle. There will be a variety of steam locomotives at this family-friendly heritage railway and museum. Get yourself a hot chocolate and a hunk of cake in their café afterwards too! For more information, visit: http://www.bkrailway.co.uk/your-visit/events/

Food

Wonder what to put in that slow-cooker? Hygge eats hearty, so stock up for autumn from these local suppliers.

Stirling Farmers Market has an autumnal twist this Saturday, from 10-4, in Port Street Stirling. There will be pumpkins for Halloween, organic squashes and vegetable spaghetti, seasonal game and wild venison, new locally hand-made cheeses, plus all the regular 25 or so stalls. Take time to chat to your stall-holder too, and make your grocery shop a day out rather than a chore. It’s the ‘hygge way’! For more information, visit: http://www.stirlingfarmersmarket.co.uk/

Falleninch Farm has some of the best beef for miles around, perfect for colder nights, slow-cooking and comfort food. Pop in to see them at their farm butcher’s shop under the shadow of the Castle – the parking is free. If you’re pushed for time, there’s free local delivery for orders over £50 too. https://www.falleninchfarm.co.uk/about-us/

Music

And lastly, hygge means taking time out of your schedule just for you, so how about some music for an autumn evening with a friend you’ve not seen in a while?

Joe Longthorne is at the Albert Halls, Stirling on 19 October, joined on stage by his live band and special guests. Joe’s performance is bog on nostalgia, with a musical rollercoaster of songs and impressions including Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr, and more. Enough song, chat and laughter to light up any dark night. For more information, visit: http://culturestirling.org/events/joe-longthorne/

China Crisis are at The Tolbooth, Stirling on 20 October to showcase songs from their new album ‘Autumn in the Neighbourhood’. It’s their first album of new material in 20 years. Eddie Lundon and Gary Daly are the founder members of the band which started in Kirkby, Merseyside back in 1979. Known for their string of hit singles, including African & White, Working with Fire and Steel, Black Man Ray and Wishful Thinking, the band will be performing these classics and more, alongside tracks from the new album. For more information, visit: http://culturestirling.org/events/china-crisis-autumn-neighbourhood/

Magical illuminations at the Balfron Woodland Light Experience
Magical illuminations at the Balfron Woodland Light Experience
Falleninch's distinctive herd under the shadow of Stirling Castle
Falleninch’s distinctive herd under the shadow of Stirling Castle

 

Photo credits:

  • Albert Halls exterior: Kenneth Allen [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons.
  • Falleninch Farm: Kindly supplied and reproduced with permission of Falleninch Farm.
  • Woodland Light Experience: Image courtesy of Woodland Experiences Ltd.

 

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Local Hero: The Hideaway Café

by | Sep 20, 2017 | Blog

Tucked down a lane in beautiful Bridge of Allan is The Hideaway Café. Opened in 2014 by owner Elena Menichetti, the aptly named Hideaway is a Scandi-inspired hangout, that is ‘all about socialising and escaping’. Just a stone’s throw from one of our newest properties at Walmer Apartment, it’s also our Local Hero this month. We spoke to Elena to find out what makes her café so special.

The Hideaway Cafe, Bridge of Allan

Quirky, cosy and fun: the interior of The Hideaway

The Hideaway Cafe, Bridge of Allan

Bringing the comfort of Scandi hygge to the heart of Bridge of Allan

Both stylish and homey, The Hideaway Café interior brings together the cosy spirit of Scandi hygge with Elena’s training in fashion. And the setting is perfect, though Elena had her doubters: ‘I chose Bridge of Allan because I was brought up there. My family’s restaurant is 30 years strong and the longest standing restaurant in the village. People thought I was mad opening up ‘another’ café – especially down a lane – but I knew it was missing from the village. I just knew it would work and it did!’

Home is where the heart is

Was it an obvious career path? ‘Restaurants run in my family; I was brought up in one. As I grew older I swore to my dad I wouldn’t end up working for the family, which he respected. Then I reached a certain age, college had ended, the fun had stopped, my family was growing bigger by the day with nephews and nieces – and I met someone. Home now looked so much more appealing, so I decided to open my own place.’

Team work and pride

When asked about what makes the café work so well, Elena points first to her people: ‘The core behind The Hideaway is the team. I never call myself the owner or the boss, because I’m part of that team. And because every single one of us takes so much pride in working there.’ And what does it offer its clientele? ‘The Hideaway is so many different things to different people,’ observes Elena, ‘but for me I think it’s laid back, all about coffee, all about good food and all about chilled-out vibes. It’s a little bit ‘city’ too, a bit quirky, and I think people appreciate that!’

Valuable time

But behind the aesthetics, Elena knows a thing or two about graft: ‘The thing I learned most from my family growing up in a successful restaurant was consistency. Be really good at what you do. Work really hard. And be consistent. That’s why our regular customers come back. Because they know what they’re getting – every time. Life is fast-paced for many of us, and people enjoy spending money on nice things. If they know they can come and leave feeling the little time they had wasn’t wasted, and that their money was well spent, then we’re doing our job.’

An ever-evolving menu

And what are the café’s food inspirations? ‘My favourite thing to do at the cafe is change the forever-changing menu. Staying ahead of the game and coming up with new dishes you won’t find elsewhere. I’m forever reading cookbooks, pinning on Pinterest and screenshotting on Instagram. I’m lucky I have an awesome chef who listens to me and gets my vision. Seeing what you had imagined on a plate going out to customers is pretty cool.’

A family’s heritage

It’s clear that Elena’s heritage is at the very heart of the café: ‘I’m from a really driven family. It’s totally built in me. My papa – who passed away last year – was a diligent, amazing man and – I guess from the age of three – watching him in his pet shop and seeing how hard he worked, rubbed off on me. Followed by watching my parents. I’d hang around their business when I was young, waiting for them to finish up. I’d listen to the regulars, who would always say how hard-working they were. My drive is to be the same, and to make them proud – which I know I have.’

The Hideaway Cafe, Bridge of Allan
The Hideaway Cafe, Bridge of Allan
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Remember, remember the best of November

by | Nov 2, 2016 | Blog

Don’t miss November in the headlong rush toward Christmas – there’s so much to see and do in this crisp, clear month, from music and foodie festivals, to the very best winter markets.

Dougie MacLean's Perthshire Amber Festival begins this weekend

Dougie MacLean’s Perthshire Amber Festival begins this weekend. Photo: Rob McDougall

perth chocolate festival november

Perth Chocolate Festival, 19 and 20 November

Perthshire Amber

For autumn music, head to Dunkeld this weekend. This four-day long music festival is enjoying its twelfth year in its Perthshire home. Developed by musician Dougie Maclean, the festival celebrates the music, history and culture of Perthshire and Scotland. Guests from home and abroad perform in an array of evocative venues, from village halls to castles and Dunkeld Cathedral too. The Royal Dunkeld Hotel becomes the ‘Amber Central’ – the main hub for the festivities. There are lots of events for all family members. There’s a decorated wheelbarrow parade and hugely successful free outdoor picnic on Sunday 6 November. And if you can’t make it, you can live-stream the evening concerts from their website too! For full details of all events and tickets, see: http://www.perthshireamber.com/

Perth Festival of Chocolate

Chocolate fans will want to take the short train ride to Perth again in mid-November. Celebrating ‘the delights of the cocoa bean’, Perth Festival of Chocolate is now in its fourth year. It takes place on 19 and 20 November in King Edward Street, Perth. Coinciding with Perth’s Christmas lights switch-on, the Festival attracts hundreds of visitors to the scenic city. The Festival comprises market stalls selling speciality chocolate, home-baked chocolate products, chocolate drinks, cocoa-based cosmetics and much more. Local restaurants showcase their own “chocolate dinners” and chocolate-themed specials and cocktails during the event. As well as chocolate, there will be hot street food, entertainment, tastings, children’s workshops, demonstrations and more. Details here: http://www.perthfestivalofchocolate.co.uk/

Edinburgh Craft Beer Revolution

For those who enjoy a craft beer, this is a new festival on the scene. Edinburgh Craft beer revolution showcases 13 breweries and over 60 different craft beers from across Scotland and the UK. It takes place on 24-26 November at Assembly Roxy in the capital city – again just a train hop from Stirling. Beers for all palates will be on tap, from pale ales to the hoppiest brews. And that’s not all – there will be craft gin and vodka, and a tip-top wine selection too. Music, masterclasses and hearty street food are sure to make this newcomer festival a big hit for grown-ups. And a cheering way to send off the last days of November, too. For tickets, directions and more information, see: http://www.revolutioncraftbeer.com/

Glasgow’s Continental Market

Not a strictly a festival, we know, but with all the right ingredients – food, fun, music and spectacle. When a trip to Germany’s famed Christmas markets is beyond your budget, take the short train ride to Glasgow instead. Scotland’s friendliest city is transformed into a winter market wonderland from 10 November. Markets are setting up at both St Enoch Square and at George Square, set beneath the Christmas lights. There will be live entertainment, fairground rides and other festive surprises. Stallholders from all over Europe present their very best festive wares, delicious hot food and drink, as well as craft beers. There’s even talk of a stallholder from Lapland – now who could that be? Warm your hands and heart on a mug of Gluwein, or sample a beer at the Bavarian Bar. Wrap up well and enjoy the very best tastes of Europe in the heart of Glasgow. For more details, see link: http://www.glasgowloveschristmas.com/

Edinburgh's first craft beer festival opens later this month

Edinburgh’s first craft beer festival opens later this month

Glasgow's winter market stallholders will be ready from 10 November

Glasgow’s winter market stallholders will be ready from 10 November

Photo credits:

Perthshire Amber photo by Rob McDougall, www.perthshireamber.com

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Hygge: embrace the chill

by | Oct 6, 2016 | Blog

Recent research claims that the Danish are actually the happiest people on the planet, and it’s all down to ‘hygge’. Pronounced ‘hoo-gah’, this term roughly translates to ‘cosiness’, and includes an appreciation of simple pleasures, cherishing yourself, and living in the moment. It’s one of the reasons the Danes smile through their tough winters. So, now that the mercury’s falling, why not discover ‘hygge’ in Stirling?

Snow White at the Macrobert Stirling

Snow White at the Macrobert, Stirling

The Enchanted Forest, Faskally: Photo by Angus Forbes

The Enchanted Forest, Faskally. Photo by Angus Forbes

Theatre

There’s nothing more in keeping with ‘hygge’ than immerse yourself in some good autumn theatre – it’s all about coming in from the cold night to the warmth, the plush seats, and that glass of wine at interval. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Snow White is at the Macrobert Arts Centre on 11-12 October. Ballet Lorent’s spellbinding retelling of Snow White is a brand new dance theatre production for families. It’s a tale of a mother’s devastating jealousy, and a band of wild, forest-dwelling miners who reveal for us the importance of inner beauty. Written by former Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy, and music by Doctor Who composer Murray Gold (wow!). For more information, visit: http://macrobertartscentre.org/event/snow-white/

Frankenstein is at the Macrobert on 25 October, a perfect piece of theatre for Halloween week. A brand new adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Gothic horror masterpiece from the artistic team behind Blackeyed Theatre’s hugely successful production of Dracula. This show promises a fresh look at this landmark work of romantic, gothic and science fiction literature. For more information, visit: http://macrobertartscentre.org/event/frankenstein/

Outdoors

Wrap up warm, see your breath on the air, and pack up your family to embrace ‘hygge’ outdoors too. And get the slow-cooker on for your return home.

The Enchanted Forest: Probably THE event of the Scottish autumn calendar, this multi-award winning show runs until the end of the October. Fusing light and music to illuminate Faskally Wood in Perthshire at night, this year’s show has been named ‘Shimmer’. And it’s drawing crowds from across the nation. There are a few precious tickets left, so hurry, you won’t regret it! For tickets: http://www.enchantedforest.org.uk/

Bo’ness and Kinneil Steam Gala on 22-23 October promises a nostalgic weekend of steam and spectacle. There will be a variety of steam locomotives at this family-friendly heritage railway and museum. Get yourself a hot chocolate and some cake in their café afterwards too! For more information, visit: http://www.bkrailway.co.uk/your-visit/events/

Music

‘Hygge’ means taking time out of your schedule just for you, so how about some music for an autumn evening with a friend you’ve not seen in a while?

The Nordic Fiddlers Bloc are at the Tolbooth, Stirling on 29 October. They’re a fiddle trio from Norway, Sweden and the Shetland Islands who have swiftly gained a reputation for their gripping and unique blend of fiddle music. With a firm focus on the rich traditional fiddle music from where they each belong, their harmony, rhythm, riffs and bass lines create a sound much richer than the sum of their three instruments. Enjoy! For more information, visit: http://culturestirling.org/events/nordic-fiddlers-bloc/

Rolling Back the Years on the 12 October at the Albert Halls, Stirling is the ultimate night of nostalgic indulgence! One of the biggest shows of its kind in the UK, this production takes the audience on a breath-taking musical journey through the 50s, 60s, and some of the brilliant sounds of the 1970s. It’s costumed and choreographed for each decade too. For more information, visit: http://culturestirling.org/events/rolling-back-years/

Food 

Still wondering what to put in that slow-cooker? ‘Hygge’ eats hearty, so stock up for autumn from your local suppliers.

Stirling Farmers Market has an autumnal twist this Saturday, from 10-4, in Port Street Stirling. There will be pumpkins for Halloween, organic squashes and vegetable spaghetti, seasonal game and wild venison, new locally hand-made cheeses, plus all the regular 25 or so stalls. Take time to chat to your stall-holder too, and make your grocery shop a day out rather than a chore. It’s the ‘hygge way’! For more information, visit: http://www.stirlingfarmersmarket.co.uk/

Falleninch Farm has some of the best beef for miles around, perfect for colder nights, slow-cooking and comfort food. Pop in to see them at their farm butcher’s shop under the shadow of the Castle – the parking is free. If you’re pushed for time, there’s free local delivery for orders over £50 too. https://www.falleninchfarm.co.uk/about-us/

Free range happiness at Falleninch Farm

Free range happiness at Falleninch Farm

Falleninch cows in the shadow of the Castle

Falleninch cows in the shadow of the Castle

Photo credits:

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