Mad Hatters Tea Party at the g for Croí’s Women at Heart Campaign

‘Don’t be late for a very important date at the g…’

The g Hotel and Spa together with Croí and their Women at Heart Campaign invite you to attend their charity fundraiser where you get to enjoy and indulge in the wonderful world of the Mad Hatter's Afternoon Tea party in the g, Thursday 30th April at 3pm. Head Pastry Chef, Martina Crotty has created a unique themed, delicious must see afternoon tea to accompany this indulgent occasion.

Guests are being invited to step into the fantasy world of Alice in Wonderland by wearing a hat for this fun event where there will be live music, plus a

number of fantastic prizes on offer for those that dress to impress, from stunning hats created by milliners Edel Ramberg, FionaMangan and Suzie Mahony; a voucher of €100 on offer from Pia Boutique, overnight stays in hotels in Ireland plus lots more.

Attending the launch of the Mad Hatters Tea Party, Barry McCann Fundraising Manger with Croí said, “Croí are thrilled to be working with the g Hotel on this quirky and fun novelty event. We can guarantee that ladies will have a fantastic day out and all proceeds are going to support our Women at Heart Campaign which empowers women to take control of their own heart health.” Delighted to support this charity fundraiser, Castleprint have come on board to sponsor the design and print for this event. Tickets are now on sale directly from Croí online at www.croi.ie/madhatters priced at €40 per person and include a glass of pink prosecco on arrival, the Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea, live music plus entry into a draw to win superb prizes on the day.

Join us at the g for the Mad Hatter's Tea Party in aid of Croí with live music, pink prosecco and delicious savoury and sweet treats galore. To keep up-to-date on all activities visit www.theghotel.ie call (091) 865200 or find the g Hotel on Facebook.

Photographer: Martina Regan

About Croí - Croí is a not-for-profit foundation established in 1985 as a limited company dedicated to

fighting heart disease and stroke in the region. We are an independent organisation, totally funded through our own fundraising activities, voluntary contributions and philanthropic support. Our organisation is a registered charity - CHY 7500, governed by a Board of Directors who serve in a voluntary capacity and who do not receive any remuneration or expenses. We strive for the highest standards of governance and we have adopted both the voluntary Code of Governance for Charities and the Guiding Principles for Fundraising. Annually we undergo an independent audit and our accounts are filed with Companies Registration Office (CRO). Our donors, supporters and volunteers, both in the corporate sector and wider community continue to give generously of their time and resources.  We are deeply grateful for this support and endorsement of our mission. Using this generosity to the best benefit in a meaningful and measurable way is central to everything we do.

Mother's Day & St Patrick's Day 2015

With Mother's Day and St Patrick's Day in the same week it got me to thinking anew about the meaning of being Irish. Last year we published a blog about what it means to be Irish with quotes from members of our team. This year our monthly musings drifted more to what traditions/habits/beliefs make us so Irish. 

For me it is family, the importance of family and the role that family play in our lives. Ireland is

without a doubt a matriarchal society with our Irish Mammies shaping past and future generations of Irish adults. A key contributor of who we are and widely used as the subject matter for many literary greats, there is also a fun 'Irish Mammies' book dedicated to these all powerful beings by Irish comedian, Colm O'Regan, as well as a website and twitter page (@irishmammies). Family is at the centre of all things Irish from christenings to weddings to funerals. The final goodbye is sometimes the largest family gathering of all. Officially a time for grieving, we also reminisce with family members, laugh together, cook together, drink unending cups of tea and above all, we mind each other. An Irish family gathering will be at times irreverent, at times somber but at all times comforting and inclusive.

The Irish are one of the most loved nations in the world. Over 70 million people claim Irish ancestry throughout the world. Over 70 million people are proud to have even the smallest drop of Irishness. We work hard and our willingness to 'give it a go' has helped to achieve so much throughout the centuries. Many Fortune 500 companies have Irish senior management such as Anne Sweeney, president at Disney/ABC group, named by Forbes magazine as one of the most powerful business women in America. One of our own sons of Galway, Billy Lawless, is well known and respected in Chicago and a great friend of President Obama. Speaking of which, the Irish have 'provided' Presidents to the U.S. on a number of occasions. An Irishman, James Hoban, even designed the White House! 

We have proudly contributed to the wine dynasties of France, Australia and America. Galway in particular features strongly with the famous Lynch and Kirwan families having fled to France and built the Chateau Lynch Bages and Chateau Kirwan vineyards. Other famous Irish names include Phelan, Barton and Hennessy - collectively known as Ireland's 'Wine Geese'.

And of course, every year the entire world celebrates with Ireland

on 17th March  for St. Patrick's Day. In recent years, to mark the occasion, Tourism Ireland have orchestrated a massive marketing campaign based on the greening of well-known landmarks around the world. From the Great Wall of China and Sydney Opera House to the Niagara Falls and the Colosseum in Rome. It is the single biggest stroke of genius by any international tourism agency and an indication of the determination and reach of our tiny nation. Use the hash tag  #GoGreen4PatricksDay to tag your own global greening images. Listen to Liam Neeson as he lent his dulcet tones to this promotional video for Ireland which brings me back to Mother's Day as I first met this wonderful Irish acting giant with his Irish Mammy, Kitty. No matter who you are, no matter where you go - your Irish Mammy will find you!! 

For a small country of 84,421 sq. km and an island wide population of approx. 6.5 million, our influence on the world around us is phenomenal and inspiring. Have a great weekend all, celebrate your Mums - past, present or soon to be. They have a profound affect on us and given the successes of the Irish across the globe, our Irish Mammies are helping to shape the world! Be proud of your Mum and be proud to be Irish!

Our Chosen Charities for 2015

We are delighted to announce our chosen charities for 2015. Croi, Console and the National Breast Cancer Research Institute [NBCRI] have been selected by our General Manager Triona Gannon.

Through the partnership with the hotel, the three chosen charities will work closely with our team at the g to help raise much needed funds for the organisations in Galway, while also helping to build awareness and support. This will be achieved through various fundraising events, direct sponsorship opportunities and promotional activities, to name but a few. 

Speaking of the charity association, Triona Gannon said“The g hotel is truly delighted to be working with these local hard working charities that provide such necessary work in our local and wider community. We all know someone that has been affected by either a heart condition, breast cancer and/ or the need for support when going through a difficult time in your life. Now more than ever we need to be aware of the needs of our community and do what we can do help out. Here at the g we have observed the inspiring work performed by each organisation and we are so proud to be associated with them. We look forward to building our relationships and commitment to Croi, Console, and the NBCRI in the year ahead”.

Croí has been to the fore in the fight

against Heart Disease & Stroke in the west of Ireland since 1985. In the past 30 years, the Foundation has worked tirelessly, and financed its work through an active fundraising programme, all with the aim of reducing the impact of heart disease and stroke on families in the west. 

Console was established in 2002 by Paul Kelly after he had experienced the grief of losing a loved one by Suicide. Through his loss, Paul recognised a need for a dedicated Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention Service here in Ireland. Since then Console has developed into a National Organisation supporting people in Suicidal Crisis and those Bereaved by Suicide through Professional Counselling, Support and Helpline Services. Console is a National Service with Centre’s in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Kerry, Athlone, Wexford, Mayo and Kildare. Console is also located in London, United Kingdom.

The National Breast Cancer Research

Institute (NBCRI) is a voluntary based charity located at the Clinical Science Institute, University College Hospital, Galway. Launched in 1991, the key objective of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute is to conduct relevant, ethical research into the biology of breast cancer, to determine the cause of this disease and improve the treatment for patients. The National Breast Cancer Research Institute also work to raise awareness of breast cancer and fundraise to provide improved breast cancer services for women throughout Ireland.

To keep up-to-date on all activities visit www.theghotel.iecall (091) 865200 or find the g Hotel & Spa on Facebook.

Last Day of Winter in Galway

It's the last day of winter and Galway is eagerly anticipating all the spring will bring. From Connemara spring lamb to early blossoming flowers. Barna Woods will have carpets of Bluebells and wild garlic and groups of Galway foragers will be spotted reaping the first jewel of the year. Always be careful to only take what you need and just strip the leaves, leave the flower and bulbs for future growth.

Galway is a hive of passionate foodies from those of that like to savour the fabulous menus on offer to the dedicated suppliers such as Gannet Fishmongers

and Sheridans Cheese to the creative chefs that devise a never ending stream of tempting menus.

It is Saturday so I'm wandering around the Galway Market which has been running for centuries beside St Nicholas' Collegiate Church. Many of the surrounding streets are pedestrianisedmaking Galway an ideal city to explore on foot, wandering down medieval lanes and discovering a celebrated local bookstore 'Charlie Byrne's' or tasting the delights of local bakers, Gourmet Tart Company.

The market is open all day on Saturday with a smaller version on Sunday and during the Galway International Arts Festival in July, we are lucky to have it on weekdays too. There is so much planning going on at this time of year and Spring will bring announcements of new events, growing festivals and exciting times.

We hope to welcome you to the g Hotel & Spa during Spring and be sure to check out our Things to Do in Galway section to get a head start on your trip to the 'City of the Tribes'.

Protect yourself from the Winter Weather

The wet and windy winter weather is no friend to our skin. As we are trying hard to keep to our New Year resolutions the cold is creating havoc for our poor skin and hair. Here are some tips for taking care of yourself during the coldest season of the year.

The main effect of cold weather is drier and tighter skin (no surprises here). This means it is important to incorporate more nourishing products into your skincare routine. Starting from the inside out, if you've heard it once, you've heard it a thousand times: Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated. Eating a healthy diet full of nutrients and vitamins is the best start on keeping your hair and skin looking and feeling healthy. Be careful of fluctuating temperatures and be aware not to overheat your home or office. If the temperature inside is much hotter than outside it can irritate your skin and can cause broken capillaries/redness from the temperature change when you go out. 

The tips below will help with your home skincare routine and our ESPA professionals will be delighted to assist with any queries you may have. Call 091 778460 or email espa@theg.ie.

Hands

The skin on your hands is thinner than on most parts of the body and has fewer oil glands so it is harder to keep your hands moist, especially in winter. Invest in a warm pair of gloves for protection and to keep the skin soft, massage hand moisturiser into your hands both morning and evening, as well as every time you wash your hands. If your hands are extremely dry, apply a more intensive moisturiser such as ESPA Rejuvenating Hand Cream at bedtime and wear light cotton gloves overnight.

Face

Nourish, nourish, nourish. We can't stress enough that during the winter, you have to change your skin care products to prevent your skin from becoming dry and flaky. Nourishment is key and you should consider introducing a high quality Face Treatment Oil or if your skin is broken or irritated consider applying our ESPA Repair & Restore Serum before your moisturiser as this is specifically formulated to help skin that is suffering from colder temperatures and will help build a protective layer against the winter weather.

Make sure you moisturise every morning to prevent your skin from becoming dry and flaky. Then at night, before going to bed, wash your face to remove make up and pollutants and apply moisturiser to treat your skin while you sleep. A good cleanser to counteract winter redness is the ESPA Nourishing Cleansing Balm as one of the ingredients, Rose Damascena, helps reduce redness whilst the muslin cloth that is supplied with it aids lymphatic drainage. It is a very gentle yet thorough way of cleansing delicate skin.

To ensure your nourishing products have the opportunity to work, you should use a gentle exfoliator each week. However, be careful to avoid areas of redness and irritation. If your skin is particularly irritated, apply our ESPA Skin Saviour (which contains Tamanu and Manuka Oils to soothe and comfort) followed by a lavish application of the Essential Cleansing Mask. It is important not to over exfoliate sensitive skin – try mixing Refining Skin Polish with the (perfectly pH-balanced) Hydrating Cleansing Milk to provide a very gentle but effective exfoliation.

Don't forget to give your lips extra attention during winter. Apply a moisturising lip balm when you are doing the rest of your skin care, make it part of your routine.

Hair & Body

Wear a hat as it will help protect your hair from drying out and also keep you nice and warm. Too much exposure to cold, harsh weather can leave hair brittle and dry making it more susceptible to damage. Wear a scarf when possible to protect the skin on your neck and chest as well.

No more than watching the heat of your house, having a hot shower or bath can cause skin irritation if the weather is cold. It strips the natural moisture out of your skin and hair so turn the temperature down from hot to warm. Both your hair and body will thank you for it! Use a shampoo that is slightly more moisturising than what you use normally, but still good for your hair type. Also, try a hair treatment once or twice a fortnight to help protect your hair.

For your body, regular and gentle exfoliation with ESPA Refining Skin Polish will help sweep away dull cells to reveal skin that glows with health, as well as optimising the effect of your body cream or body oil.

The above simple steps will help to keep you glowing and ready for Spring!

The spa at the g Hotel is designed by world leaders ESPA. Comprising 8 treatment rooms, Thermal suite with vitality pool, crystal steam room, rock sauna, lifestyle showers, ice fountain and tepidariums (heated loungers) as well as a Relaxation Lounge overlooking our rooftop zen garden. ESPA at the g is open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm. Call our ESPA professionals on 091 778460 or email espa@theg.ie.

Fabulously Festive at the g!

December is here and the countdown to Christmas has begun in earnest!

We are all starting to prepare – mixing the pudding, visiting the Christmas Market, braving the elements to buy presents, selecting the perfect tree and having a few hot chocolates or mulled wines along the way. Here at the g Hotel & Spa, our season has been underway for months. Our festive fairies have been planning our stunning Christmas trees and arranging a beautiful array of gifts for our guests to choose from.

ESPA at the g have every need catered for; from luxury ESPA skincare sets and home fragrance sets and candles that smell incredible to a wide selection of ESPA

treatments, you are sure to find the perfect gift. It wouldn’t feel like Christmas without boxes to unwrap and carefully selected presents to uncover. All ESPA gifts and g Hotel vouchers come beautifully presented, boxed and ribboned ensuring delight and happiness all round.

Choose from Afternoon Tea at €26 for 1/€42 for 2, Dinner & a Movie at just €29.50 per guest or Dinner in our 2 AA culinary rosette Restaurant gigi's with new chef, Cedric Bottarlini. We have Christmas all wrapped up with our perfect escapes from €190 or give the gift of choice and select a g Hotel monetary voucher for the loved one in your life.

Also available this year we have yummy foodie gifts including a traditional plum pudding complete with cooking instructions and sumptuous preserves; the strawberry and Prosecco jam will have you dreaming of summer whilst the ginger marmalade will elevate any breakfast table and the flavoursome raspberry preserve is the ideal topping for freshly baked scones. Simply gorgeous!

You can purchase g Hotel & Spa gifts from our pop up shop in the Eyre Square Centre in Galway, Thursday to Sunday throughout December or online at www.theghotel.ie

Collection time for COPE Galway

Last month, we organised a donation drop off week for COPE Galway, inviting the local community to donate to our COPE Galway donation booth in the g Hotel.

We were delighted to have received such a huge positive response to our appeal. We were blown away by the generous donations made by our own hotel staff, suppliers and the general public in Galway, who all dropped in items COPE were in need of in the run up to Christmas.

COPE Galway is one of our chosen charities this year, an organisation whose vision is an improved quality of

life, in a home of your own for people affected by homelessness, women and children experiencing domestic violence and older people. The items that you kindly donated will go directly to the services operated by COPE Galway including the Fairgreen Hostel, Osterley Lodge Hostel, Waterside House Day Care Centre and their resettlement and tenancy support.

A sincere THANK YOU to everyone that supported this initiative. You can continue to help those in need by donating directly to COPE Galway. Please see all details below:

Warm regards,

Triona Gannon
General Manager
The g Hotel & Spa


What can I donate?

• Books/ Home-ware/ crockery
• Good quality clean clothing and shoes.
• DVD’s and books/ Games for children
• Dry foods and unperishable items (i.e. tinned food, pasta, tea, coffee, sugar, etc.)
• Toys: good quality children’s toys (stuffed toys must be new, with tags) (no toys requiring batteries, please)
• Toiletries: new and unopened toiletries, (ie. cosmetics, toothpaste, toothbrushes, body wash, shampoo)
• Towels (clean and in good condition)
• Vouchers (Dunne’s, Smyth’s, Lidl, Aldi, etc.)
• Bed Linen (clean and usable single sheets/duvets and duvet covers]

COPE Galway – what they do…
COPE Galway has been providing Social Services in Galway since the 1970s. Originally called Galway Social Service Council, the organisation was established by the Galway Diocese. In 1996 the organisation became a limited company and the name changed to Galway Social Services Limited. In 2000 the name was changed to COPE and in 2008 the organisation was re-launched under the name COPE Galway, to signify that all the services are provided in Galway city and county. COPE Galway employs over 100 people in a wide variety of roles including social care professionals, childcare workers, community support workers, chefs, cleaners and administrative support staff. Our employees are supported in their work by a committed team of over 150 volunteers. We could not deliver the full range of services without the generous support of these volunteers. Together their dedicated team work towards COPE Galway’s vision of improving the quality of life in a home of your own for people affected by homelessness, women and children experiencing domestic violence, and older people.