Itay Zilkha, 47 and his wife Zia 49, are the proud owners behind the picturesque café and community space, The Secret Garden in Ewell.

We have BIG plans for our first festive season here.
We’re inviting the community to join our ‘Lighting the Tree’ event at 5pm on 23rd November, then there’s Wreath-Making Workshops on the 25th November and 6th December, a Quiz Night on the 29th November and on the weekends leading up to Christmas, we’ll be hosting ‘Storytime with Santa’ for the little ones.

Detail is everything when you’re creating something special
Magic, joy, and fairy lights are essential to the festive season – it’s about creating something beautiful – and treats that taste just as incredible! Our goal is to be the hub of the community and we’re so proud of the connections and sense of togetherness that The Secret Garden brings – and that we’re all part of.

It’s busy but there’s a lot of joy to be had
There are so many ‘to do lists’ to ensure that events all run smoothly from booking online to its coordination on the day. Get ready for The Secret Garden to look even more magical with decorations and wreaths and even Christmas trees for sale. And the best bit is seeing the smiles and all that hard-work come to fruition. That’s magic!

The Secret Garden
Lakehurst Road
Ewell KT19 0EB
ewellsbestsecret.co.uk
@ ewellsbestsecret

40-something Kobbie Boafo-Nartey aka DJ Kobbie is the party-starter and DJ at The Horton, Epsom where he packs their funkytown dance nights with crowd-pleasing beats.

I believe in the power of music
I tailor every set to achieve a great atmosphere and to bring energy and elevate the occasion. I take real pride in my innate ability to read a room and create memorable nights through fusing genres of music to fit the vibe of the moment.

NYE is the biggest night of the year as a DJ
I’ll be seeing in the New Year at an event where I’m booked to DJ. The prep involves collaborating with the client and the venue to work out logistics and arrange set up and start times. And, I am always on the look-out for great music.

Every event is unique
Over the years, artists, have made great festive songs so truth be known, that makes life easier. However, there’s not one song that will have the whole place jumping the way some party guests believe – although, ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ by Whitney Houston, comes very close…

Even if I get socks, it’s the thought that counts
Christmas Day will be with the family – eating, drinking and being merry. I got married during the festive season, so it’s always a special time. I’m looking forward to the customary socks and tech headed my way. Along with ‘Last Christmas’ and Mariah Carey, my daughter always keeps me festive, even when I might not be feeling it.

thehortonepsom.org
@djkobbie

Tilly Hancey, 18, is the Salon Manager at Headmasters in Epsom where the festive rush is ramping up and party-ready styles are in high demand.

More clients come in before Christmas
Everything has to run smoothly and keeping things fun and festive helps the team stay energised. The Christmas rush is an exciting time because it lets us show off our skills, creating party-ready styles and making sure clients look and feel their best for the holidays.

We’re here to create a magical experience
From training on the services on offer, like our festive blow-dry with Colour Wow Dreamcoat – designed to weatherproof hair for holiday parties – to managing stock levels becomes critical. From Christmas gift sets to personalised Belgium chocolates and prosecco for clients in December; these little details all help create a truly festive atmosphere.

Planning starts early
Head Office starts planning for Christmas as early as August with a festive photoshoot, for fresh imagery in our salon screens and email marketing. It’s a team effort, ensuring everything looks and feels festive.

headmasters.com
@headmasters.epsom

Lights, camera, action! Harry Palmer, 30, is the Technical Manager at Epsom Playhouse – it’s his job to ensure all performances run smoothly. No pressure, Harry!

Usually, I’m positioned right at the back, viewing the entire auditorium
From lighting, sound, stage management, set building and more; this time of the year is full-on for our department. The big Christmas shows come together – and of course, it’s panto season! I start working on them around March and we’re already looking at Christmas 2025!

It’s all about team work
I run a team of technical professionals, assisted by a wide range of skilled casuals. We provide tech’ assistance for every kind of show, event, talk, musical, demonstration… It’s fun, it’s inspiring. It is incredibly stressful at times but equally, it’s very rewarding; seeing happy faces in the audience – on our screens up here – that’s magical!

Surrounding yourself in a supportive network is invaluable
I have one of the most supportive and understanding family networks and without them, I wouldn’t be able to do what I do, especially as I’m working full-on during the festive season. Relaxation is tough due to the hours we work but usually it comes in the form of sleep after a really long day.

I love Christmas Day and can’t wait to spend it with my daughter and family
It’s the one day during the season that I get to spend with them. It’s a very special day for all of us. Due to the schedule of performances, we don’t have Boxing Day or New Years Eve together as there’s two shows on both. Lastly, I can’t wait to consume the amount of food that is totally acceptable to eat on the big day!

epsomplayhouse.co.uk
@epsomplayhouse

Words: @fatimatruscott

Pictures: @jayne_saunderson_