‘Simple things make the world a BETTER PLACE…’

So says our fabulous cover star Ruth Jones, who is touchingly grateful to her parents for her upbringing and the values they instilled in her. ‘My mum taught me the importance of hugs and thank you letters – she was always big on both of those. A cuddle can go a long way.’ Ruth says her mum is her hero because she’s kind, wise and has amazing positivity – for her 80th birthday, she asked all her guests to each provide an ounce of wool so she could knit something amazing for her 90th! There’s also much pleasure to be had from the simple act of reading a magazine or good book, so I hope you’ll treat yourselves to a copy of Ruth’s first novel, Never Greener. Of course, another of life’s pleasures is getting together with family, friends and neighbours, and this month’s royal wedding is giving us the perfect excuse for a knees-up! We’ve got plenty of inspiration to put you in the mood, including fabulous party food and ideas for crafts that will give your home a patriotic atmosphere. Wedding season is getting under way for other couples, too, and choosing the right thing to wear is inevitably always a big dilemma. Whether you’re the bride to be, mother of the bride, or just one of the lucky guests, we have all the styling advice you need! And, if your talents extend to dressmaking, you’ll love this month’s pattern, which can be adapted for a fabulous wedding guest outfit or bridal frock. On that note, let’s raise a toast… here’s to the bride and groom!