Last Friday night I was lucky enough to get invited to the launch of Bedboat Magazine‘s issue 3. Held at the new static venue of Camper Coffee in the Real McCoy Arcade on Fore Street in Exeter. I got myself “dolled up” and headed down with Steve on my arm. 

I have followed and read Bedboat Magazine from the beginning and have witnessed it grow and develop into the magazine it is today. Flicking through the magazine on the night I could see article after article pop out at me as “must reads”. The Hemsley and Hemsley interview being the first one I will read as it has a foodie theme which you all know is my thing!

We arrived and gave our names to the man on the door and were ushered through. Steve and I were met by Roberta from Bedboat and Paul from Camper Coffee. We were offered a choice of cocktails. A beautifully pink rhubarb and gin concoction called “Bed” and a rum cocktail called “Boat”. Steve and I both opted for the rum cocktail served over lots of ice and it was delicious.

Before we had even got passed the welcome drinks Lorna from Lorna Ruby (my favourite clothes shop) came over and said “Hi”. We chatted for a bit before heading into the main throng of people. I had my eyes on the latest copy of Bedboat and at the earliest opportunity I picked up a copy and had a flick through. Lots of articles were popping out at me and I could already tell that the magazine had come on leaps and bounds since the last one. I handed over my £7.00 to Hazel, the editor-in-chief and popped a copy under my arm.

From there we bumped into Willow from Willow Hilson Vintage Boutique. It was lovely to catch up with her and her partner who owns Otto Retro. I was so pleased that I had put on my new green lace top that I had purchased from Willows boutique the week before with my birthday money. She commented on how lovely it looked which was a bonus too! We shared our latest news and chatted about food, vintage clothes and furniture. All the things I love…

At this point our friends Will and Caroline from Littles Coffee arrived. We don’t get to see them very often but it’s always a pleasure to catch up. It turned into a pretty social affair in the end with lots of chatter over some lovely coffee based cocktails made by Camper Coffee.

Whilst enjoying our cocktails we were offered the most delicious canapés from Fego Food. Mouth-watering seared tuna with a Japanese twist, smoked salmon, duck and some wonderful dip with crudités that helped soak up the rather strong but delicious cocktails. In the background DJ’s were playing some soulful tunes to complement the overall chilled atmosphere on the night.

I could see that Roberta and Hazel were remarkably proud of their achievements as well they should be. Issue three is a triumph and I look forward to what will come along with issue four.

Look out for Bedboat magazine in independent shops around Exeter and online.