Tag: Valentines Day

SWALK? Call to help Scots reunite with loved ones

Equalities Minister urges UK Government to change family visa rules ON Valentine’s Day

Changes to the UK Family Visa Route would support the wellbeing of married couples and families by helping them reunite in Scotland, according to a new Scottish Government report.

Under current rules, people living in the UK need to earn a minimum of £29,000 to bring an immediate family member from abroad to live here.

Planned increases to this threshold were paused in July 2024 by the UK Government, which is currently seeking views on whether the requirements should continue in their current form.

The Scottish Government report sets out evidence that the minimum salary requirement does not support Scotland’s interests, and disproportionately impacts women and part-time workers.

Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart said: “This Valentine’s Day, I am calling on the UK Government to make the changes needed so that couples and families who do not meet the current financial requirements can be reunited.

“People who live in Scotland should be able to build a life with their spouse and raise children here – wherever in the world their husband or wife is from. Allowing more people to bring their families to live here would enrich communities, support public services and contribute to the economy.

“The UK Government’s review of the income threshold is welcome, and the Scottish Government is clear that the minimum income threshold needs to be reduced or removed altogether to allow more families to build their lives here in Scotland.”

Sarah Douglas is from the Scottish Borders. She is currently living in Perugia, Italy with her husband and their three children. Sarah would like to return to Scotland with her family, however due to the minimum income requirement, they are unable to move to the UK.

Sarah said: “The minimum income requirement is currently preventing me from living in Scotland with my Italian husband.

“As a mother to three young children meeting the threshold is challenging especially since I’m expected to do so whilst being separated from my husband and caring for my children alone.

“I am faced with a choice between separating my family or permanent exile. It is a cruel policy which places unnecessary emotional and financial strain on families. A new policy should be implemented to ensure that families like mine can stay together.”

Demi Kara is from Edinburgh. She married her husband, who is from Adana, Turkey, in 2024. Due to the minimum income requirement, the couple are currently living separately in Scotland and Turkey.

Demi said: “A price on love seems very much unfair. Younger long distance couples have no chance in this generation – you pay the price and put your life on hold, or you leave, it’s as simple as that.

“I put my degree on hold to fight for my husband to be by my side – a basic right every person should have. A change the minimum income requirement would allow my life to be whole, allow my heart to be full of love and not broken and torn between two countries.”

Valentine’s Day Comes Early for Edinburgh Care Home Couple

Love is in the air at an Edinburgh care home, as Olive and Gavin McCrone celebrate their first Valentine’s Day at Glencairn.

After 27 years together, the couple made the decision to move into Glencairn, part of Renaissance Care, in November 2024, to ensure that they could continue sharing life’s special moments side by side.

To mark the occasion, staff at Glencairn presented the couple with a special Valentine’s Day treat of chocolates and prosecco, kindly contributed by Edinburgh’s One20 Wine Café.

Dressed in their Sunday best, Gavin presented Olive with a bouquet of flowers, just as he did on their first date all those years ago – lunch at the Oxford and Cambridge Club in London in 1998, when Olive was 62 and Gavin was 64 years old.

Reflecting on their journey together, Olive, now 89, said: “For us, it wasn’t love at first sight, we were friends for a long time before it became something more. I never imagined when we first met for lunch all those years ago, we’d be here celebrating our first Valentine’s Day in our new home. But here we are, still together, and still making new memories.”

Originally from Bellshill and Pitlochry, the pair had known each other through their late partners before romance blossomed later in life.

“We had a long-distance relationship for a while as Olive was in London, and I was in Edinburgh,” said Gavin, 91. “But love finds a way, and eventually, we made a life together.”

That life has been filled with travel, music, and cherished family moments. Between them, they have five children and seven grandchildren, and their shared love of adventure has taken them across Scotland’s islands and beyond.

Having married in 2000 in Hatch End, the couple’s bond has remained unshakable ever since. “We’re best friends as well as partners, we can sit together in silence and be completely content,” said Olive. “That’s the mark of a love that lasts.”

Making the move to Glencairn has given them a new sense of home. “At this stage in life, just being together is enough,” continued Olive. “Glencairn is a beautiful place, and we feel very lucky to have found somewhere where we can still be together.

When asked about the secret to a long and happy marriage, Gavin’s advice was simple: “Be best friends, always be honest, and never forget to laugh together.”

Renaissance Care is a nationwide provider of quality, personalised care across a range of care homes across Scotland.

With a focus on personalised care, dignity, independence, and respect, Renaissance Care tailors care to meet the unique needs of each resident, ensuring they lead fulfilling lives in a supportive, homely environment.

For more information, visit www.renaissance-care.co.uk

Forever Edinburgh invites residents to fall in love with their city this Valentine’s Day with Resident Rewards

This Valentine’s Day, Forever Edinburgh is making it easier than ever for residents to fall in love with their city all over again with exclusive Resident Rewards.

To add a little extra sweetness to the day, Forever Edinburgh has partnered with Mimi’s Bakehouse to give away a limited number of free cupcakes (250) across their city centre locations. This giveaway is just one of the many ways residents can feel the love with Resident Rewards Edinburgh this Valentine’s weekend.

Forever Edinburgh has also created a dedicated guide to enjoying your perfect Valentine’s weekend with Resident Rewards Edinburgh.  Showcasing a selection of fantastic discounts available to plan your perfect date night, or simply fall back in love with your city again without breaking the bank.

Councillor Jane Meagher, Leader of Edinburgh City Council, said: “Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and we want those who live here to take full advantage of everything it has to offer.

“Through Resident Rewards and special discounts, we’re making it easier than ever to explore, enjoy, and fall in love with Edinburgh this Valentine’s Day.”

Michelle Phillips, Founder of Mimi’s Bakehouse, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Forever Edinburgh to spread a little joy this Valentine’s Day.

“Mimi’s Bakehouse has always been about creating memorable moments, and what better way to celebrate love for our city than with a delicious treat made right here in Edinburgh?”

The I Love Edinburgh guide includes fantastic discounts on eating out and drinks experiences, such as 20% off food from the main menu at Brewhemia and the Alchemist, discounts on distillery tours and drinks venues including the new Edinburgh Gin experience, Port of Leith and Johnnie Walker Princes Street, and other fantastic offers across the city.

For those spending Valentine’s with close friends and family, Resident Rewards are sharing the love with you as well, including 30% off admission at the Edinburgh Dungeon, a discount on Mercat Tours and 10% discount on Edinburgh Bus Tours.

From romantic dining experiences and cultural attractions to relaxing getaways, the Resident Rewards programme provides Edinburgh residents with unique opportunities to enjoy their city at a discounted rate.

Residents who miss out on a cupcake from Mimi’s Bakehouse can claim an exclusive discount with Mimi’s Resident Rate, which offers 20% off cakes, cupcakes and traybakes purchased online at www.mimisbakehouse.com. 

Find out more here https://edinburgh.org/residentrewards/resident-rates/mimis-bakehouse-resident-rate/

Residents can claim their free cupcake by visiting any Mimi’s Bakehouse city centre location (Leith, Corstorphine, Comely Bank, City Art Centre and Lauriston Castle) on Friday 14 February while supplies last, one cupcake max per person. 

To plan your perfect Valentine’s Day with Resident Rewards Edinburgh, visit:

edinburgh.org/i-love-edinburgh.

Celebrate in STYLE at St James Quarter this Valentine’s Day

Love is all around the Quarter!

Valentine’s Day is the day to show how much you care – whether that’s for a partner, friend or even yourself – but it can be tricky to find the perfect way to say, “I love you”. 

So, St James Quarter is playing cupid with a curated line-up of brands offering delicious deals and sumptuous meals during this special holiday. Because food is after all the universal language of love!

But, if you prefer a different route to the heart, St James Quarter is also home to some of the UK’s favourite brands. Whether your significant other is a fashion-lover, jewellery connoisseur, or has a tenderness for technology, St James Quarter has the perfect gift for everyone.

Dine, drink and dazzle your loved ones this Valentine’s:

SushiSamba: Take Valentine’s Day to new heights at SushiSamba Edinburgh. Spice up your night with the Taste of Valentine’s Menu, priced at £125 per person. Sip on handcrafted cocktails or Champagne, and take in the iconic panoramic views of the sparkling Edinburgh skyline.

Duck & Waffle: Make this Valentine’s Day memorable with a feast for the senses. Enjoy sharing bites for the table, with your choice of starter, main and dessert plus a glass of Prosecco at Duck & Waffle for £70 per person. Select from their range of famous dishes, with a set menu available for one night only on Friday 14th February.

The Alchemist: Enjoy a date with a difference at The Alchemist, with an exclusive mini masterclass for two. Choose a cocktail to create and enjoy, delivering your own dash of theatre for £18 per person. Bookings are available on Wednesday 12th – Friday 14th and Sunday 16th February from 4pm – 9pm.

The Botanist: Indulge in The Botanist Valentine’s sharing menu, including a selection of starters, their famous sharing Hanging Kebab, and a limited-edition Valentine’s Cookie Dough for two. The menu is set to launch on Thursday 13th February and will be available until Sunday 16th February. The Botanist is also hosting a Galentine’s Power Ballad Bingo on Thursday 13th February.

The Botanist is also partnering with luxury skincare brand, Khiel’s, to offer complimentary samples and money off vouchers for guests dining from the Valentine’s menu.

The Real Greek: Embark on a Greek Love Affair! The mouthwatering offer includes Moussaka for two, Greek Flatbread, a cold Meze for dipping, Greek Salad and two desserts.

Add a sweet treat at Krispy Kreme: This Valentine’s Day, Krispy Kreme is filling the world with love with three new heart-shaped doughnuts: Daisy For You, You Are My Sunshine and Best Buds flavours. Launched on Monday 27th January, the doughnuts are available until Friday 14th February.

Molton Brown will celebrate with a sensory journey hosting a Paccari Chocolate Tasting on Friday 14th and a Valentine’s Afternoon Tea for Two on Sunday 16th February. NEOM is also on-hand to add a personal touch to the special day with their pop-up calligraphy station on Friday 14th February.

For more information about what’s going on at St James Quarter this Valentine’s Day visit: https://stjamesquarter.com/event/valentines-day/.

St Valentine might be the patron saint of love, but St James has got your celebrations covered!

Film fans invited to channel their inner Bridget Jones at Vue venues this Valentine’s Day Weekend

As the iconic character sets out on the next chapter of her story in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, Vue venues in Edinburgh are welcoming film fans to get dressed all cosy in their pyjamas for the opening weekend of the film.

In addition to having the fun of channelling their inner Bridget, any guest who attends a screening of the film between February 14 – February 16 in their pyjamas will receive a complimentary sweet or savoury treat (in the form of a packet of Minstrels or Popworks) to share with their date, their friends – or all to themselves.

Heading to Vue on February 14, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy sees two-time Academy Award winner Renée Zellweger back in the titular role as the loveable British singleton – her first romantic adventure since 2016. After the loss of her husband Mark, Bridget, now a single mother, is stuck in a state of emotional limbo, raising her children with help from her loyal friends, including her former lover, Daniel Cleaver…

Also arriving at Vue this Valentine’s Day is Captain America: Brave New World, debuting Sam Wilson’s role as the new Captain America. Using his abilities, skill and new gear to help protect the president from a shadowy threat, expect edge of your seat adventures when this superhero epic explodes onto the screens.

In addition, two romantic re-releases are heading to Vue, the 35th anniversary of Julia Robert’s Pretty Woman and what is often described as one of the best films of the 21st century, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

Robert Smith, General Manager at Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “A trip to Vue has always been a hugely popular choice for Valentine’s and we’re excited to welcome couples, friends and film fans to enjoy the very best in big screen drama and romance this weekend – as well as chance to gain bag themselves some free sweet or savoury treats.”

Tickets cost from £7.99 when booked online. To find out more, visit www.myvue.com

City centre hotel offers foodie fantasy with exclusive deal

A PREMIER four-star city centre hotel and restaurant is giving back to residents with a chance to rediscover the magic of the city with an exciting exclusive ‘Drinks and Dining’ offer in February.

In partnership with Forever Edinburgh Resident Rewards, Ten Hill Place Hotel is providing the perfect opportunity to relax and recuperate with £50 of food and drink for just £25 per person, saving 50%.

Located on the prime location of Nicholson Street in the buzzing Southside district, the exclusive offer allows guests to experience its relaxed and contemporary restaurant and enjoy locally sourced seasonal dishes paired with carefully selected drinks including its exclusive in-house 1505 gin and 1505 Ale for less.

Mark McKenzie, General Manager of Surgeons Quarter said: “We wanted to help Edinburgh locals beat the winter blues by offering an exclusive offer to city residents.

“The offer is a fantastic opportunity for people to escape in their own city and enjoy a top-class meal for half the price.

“The response so far has been fantastic, and it has been great to have a buzz in the hotel and campus – making for a perfect Valentine’s Day treat.”

Forever Edinburgh works with members, partners, and stakeholders to maintain the profile of Edinburgh as a world-class destination to visit, invest, live, work and study though championing Scotland’s capital city locally, nationally and internationally.

Eleanor Lee, Digital Marketing Lead at Forever Edinburgh said: “Resident Rewards Edinburgh, now in its third year, is an exclusive initiative for Edinburgh residents, offering substantial savings and a chance to try new experiences in the city we all call home.

“The enthusiastic participation of local businesses including the return of partners like Surgeons Quarter underscores the programme’s success and since July 2023, the Resident Rewards landing page has attracted over 57,000 visitors.

Edinburgh is bucking the trend when it comes to footfall to our city centre and was recently declared the top performing city in the UK, and I have no doubt that this is in part thanks to the incredible range of attractions on offer and initiatives like this.”

Bookings can be made by emailing j.hudson@surgeonsquarter.com using the code EHReward50.

Ten Hill Place is run by Surgeons Quarter, the commercial arm of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RSCEd) with profits supporting the charitable aims of the College which are education, assessment and advancement in surgical standards worldwide.

The offer is valid from Monday 1st February to 29th February 2024 from 1pm-9.30pm, to learn more about the offer, visit: https://edinburgh.org/residentrewards/

More information about Ten Hill Place hotel can be found at: 

https://www.surgeonsquarter.com/accommodation/

From the aisles to the altar!

SCOTMID COLLEAGUES SAY ‘I DO’

Love found its way to the aisles of Scotmid Broxburn Store, where colleagues James and Lauren first crossed paths in 2014. The Scotmid sweethearts exchanged vows during a heartwarming ceremony at Balbirnie House in Markinch recently.

The flame was kindled during the staff Christmas party a decade ago when James finally plucked up the courage to ask Lauren on a date. To his delight, she accepted, and they ventured into Edinburgh together. Their bond continued to flourish as they worked shoulder to shoulder in Broxburn for another two years.

Lauren joined Scotmid Broxburn in 2014 before departing in 2016 to become a PE teacher, while James joined Scotmid in 2002 and now manages a Scotmid store in East Calder.

James said, “The aisles of Scotmid may not seem like the most conventional romantic setting to meet your future partner, yet for Lauren and me, they marked the beginning of our journey together.

“We’ll always cherish our time working together; our connection blossomed into a lifelong partnership.”

Vue Edinburgh brings back classic films for Valentine’s Day  

To mark Valentine’s Day, four classic romance films are returning to the big screen at Vue Edinburgh Omni and Edinburgh Ocean– for one night only. 

To kick things off, the timeless love story of Jack and Rose is back with Titanic. The film is an epic, action-packed romance set against the ill-fated maiden voyage of the ‘unsinkable’ Titanic – at the time, the largest moving object ever built. James Cameron’s multi-Academy Award-winner will be on the big screen in 3D 4K HDR and high-frame rate, with a cast headed by Oscar winners Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. 

For those looking for a more uplifting spectacle, 10 Things I Hate About You will also be returning to the big screen for Valentine’s Day. The 90s classic stars Julia Stiles and the late Heath Ledger as they navigate high school dating in this wildly entertaining romcom – as loved now as it was 25 years ago. 

For lovers of musicals, one of the most celebrated productions of all time will be returning to Vue. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables tells the story of ex-prisoner Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman), hunted for decades by the ruthless policeman Javert (Russell Crowe), after he breaks parole. When Valjean agrees to care for factory worker Fantine’s (Anne Hathaway) young daughter, Cosette, their lives change forever.  

Finally, one of (if not the) ultimate romcom, Notting Hill will also be returning to the big screen on 14 February. Hugh Grant stars as a London bookstore owner whose humdrum existence is thrown into romantic turmoil when a famous American actress (Julia Roberts) appears in his shop.

A chance encounter over spilled orange juice leads to a kiss that blossoms into a full-blown affair.

As the average bloke and glamorous movie star draw closer and closer together, they struggle to reconcile their radically different lifestyles in the name of love.  

Toby Bradon, General Manager of Vue UK & Ireland, said: “We’re thrilled to be showing four classic romance films this Valentine’s Day.

“No matter who you choose to spend the day with, these titles are sure to bring back fond emotions for lovers of film. 

“There’s nothing quite like the magic of the big screens and Vue is the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s!”  

Tickets are available online from just £4.99 at select venues at www.myvue.com. 

The Eden Mill Experience opens for Valentine’s Day

Located in the heart of the Scottish capital, Eden Mill has opened the doors of its first-ever city centre Edinburgh venue in time for the most romantic day of the year; the city’s brand-new drinks venue offers a delicious journey through Eden Mill’s best-selling fruity & floral Love Gin 


Edinburgh’s drinks lovers will enjoy the perfect Valentine’s Day date as independent distiller Eden Mill announces The Eden Mill Experience is now open in the heart of Edinburgh’s West End. 

The capital’s latest drinks experience, and Eden Mill’s first venue in central Edinburgh, is located in the Heads & Tales Gin Bar at 1A, Rutland Place, EH1 2AD, inviting gin lovers to share their love for the spirit through an interactive & immersive mixology experience. 

Eden Mill’s delectably fruity and subtly floral pink Love Gin, originally created as a limited-edition for Valentine’s Day in 2015, is available in the ‘Share The Love Gin’ session. Gin fans are whisked through a dreamy experience with three uniquely delicious cocktails, one of which guests will learn to mix themselves. 

SHARE THE LOVE GIN | (From £30) 

Love Gin (40% ABV) is Eden Mill’s floral pink gin joined the Eden Mill portfolio in 2015 as a limited-edition, but the taste of fresh rhubarb spice, sweet strawberries & vanilla combined with green apple, citrus and a hint of rose water, was adored and earned Love Gin a permanent position in the Eden Mill portfolio.

During the Share The Love Gin session, gin enthusiasts will hear the story of how Love Gin was born and the flavoursome botanicals used to make it so delicious. With three uniquely delicious cocktails and some sweet treats, this immersive session will tell the story of Eden Mill’s best-selling Love Gin. 

The Eden Mill Experience joins a flourishing area of the capital’s drinks scene; bursting with culture,  innovative bars and restaurants. Positioned as an experience and journey into the Eden Mill brand, the location is the ideal venue for drinks fans to begin their perfect day or night out in the beautiful Scottish capital. 

Hannah Ingram, Head of Marketing at Eden Mill, said: “We are thrilled to bring a taste of St Andrews to the Scottish capital. Valentine’s Day is a fabulous opportunity for Edinburgh’s gin fans to experience the versatility of our Love Gin through a range of inventive & delicious cocktails. 

“The Eden Mill Experience is the perfect opportunity to showcase our wonderful expressions in an interactive and immersive way, and it’s a privilege to launch in a city with such a vibrant drinks scene.”   

‘The Guard Bridge Masterclass’ is also available for whisky fans; Eden Mill’s blended malt Scotch whisky is designed to be enjoyed in cocktails, and guests will enjoy three – all expressing the whisky’s deliciously sweet tasting notes of sherried fruit and light warm gingerbread. 

THE GUARD BRIDGE MASTERCLASS | (From £35)
The Guard Bridge Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (46% ABV) is a new addition to Eden Mill’s range, crafted using an eclectic mix of single malts sourced from the Highland and Lowland regions of Scotland; the blend also contains Eden Mill Single Malt whisky which is highly scarce in quantity.

The expression soothes the palate with the taste of creamy vanilla and barley sugar, finished with sherried fruit and light warm gingerbread. 

During The Guard Bridge Masterclass, whisky fans will learn the journey and discover the story behind this new blended malt Scotch whisky while delving into its deliciously sweet tasting notes. Designed to be enjoyed in cocktails, attendees will try three as part of the experience to demonstrate the whisky’s versatility, with one cocktail “guaranteed to feature an ingredient guests have never tasted before!”.  

LAYING FOUNDATIONS

Eden Mill is currently building a contemporary Scotch Whisky and gin distillery which is due to become operational in 2024. Set to be one of Scotland’s iconic distilleries, it will also be a major St Andrews landmark and a key Scottish tourism attraction. The brand has been recording progress with work on the exterior of the distillery now complete; a time-lapse video capturing the first stage of the journey is available on the Eden Mill website. 

The Eden Mill Experience opened on Saturday 3rd February 2024 and is located in the Heads & Tales Gin Bar at 1A, Rutland Place, EH1 2AD in the heart of Edinburgh’s West End. Offering immersive whisky & gin experiences, bookings are available now via the Eden Mill website. 

Dobbies: Give a gift that will grow

Houseplants are the new bouquets according to a recent survey by Dobbies Garden Centres, in which 24% of Edinburgh residents said they preferred to receive houseplants rather than cut flowers because they last longer.

A further 31% of Brits said they would happily give a houseplant as a gift.

Houseplants are the ultimate sustainable gift, especially for Valentine’s Day, where a long-lasting houseplant acts as a reminder to your loved ones for years to come.

Dobbies’ Edinburgh and little dobbies’ Stockbridge stores have a wide range of cost-effective houseplants are the perfect way to show your appreciation for your partner with a gift that will last. With a multitude of positive effects, houseplants have air-purifying benefits, and can enhance your home, as well as your wellbeing. 

From the green-fingered plant parent to the novice gardener, Dobbies has a houseplant to make everyone feel good. Follow Dobbies’ Senior Houseplant Buyer Claire Bishop’s top tips on ensuring your gift will grow to its fullest potential:

“Houseplants make a beautiful addition to any space with their greenery and colour.

“If you are in search of a romantic but low-maintenance plant, Phalaenopsis will make an impression. These are one of the most popular houseplants, and flowering houseplants are a key trend for 2023. They make a wonderful present for anyone, coming in a range of colours as well as being easy to care for. Place them in bright, centrally heated room (but out of direct summer sun) and watch them bloom!

“Our limited edition Anthurium Clarinervium is ideal if you prefer a tropical look, with its stunning deep green leaves overlain with decorative white. Native to southern Mexico, this rare houseplant loves humidity and would find itself at home in a shower room or steamy kitchen. Ensure its soil is damp but not over-saturated by misting regularly.

“Aglaonema’s stunning variegated leaves and variations of colours lend a pop of colour to any home, guaranteeing your loved one will be thrilled to receive this patterned beauty. This houseplant loves a warm, consistent temperature so keep away from any cold air drafts. In lower light areas, aim to periodically rotate your plant for even growth.”

Visit in store or online at www.dobbies.com to explore Dobbies range of houseplants and Valentine’s gifting ideas, with plenty of styles and sizes to suit every budget and space.

For top tips on caring for houseplants, listen to Claire’s advice on the Positively Plants podcast www.dobbies.com/podcasts