Editor’s letter: Welcome to the March/April issue of Irish Country Magazine

Editor Klara Heron introduces the brand new spring issue of Irish Country Magazine, packed full of amazing voices

Welcome to the Love Issue of Irish Country Magazine. From self-love to puppy love, we’re certainly feeling the love this spring. With double the amount of weddings taking place this year, no doubt you’ve a few dates in the calendar for big days out. On page 34, we’re spotlighting the best in bridal and guest style, while in our fashion story we’re making a statement with bold accessories.

What better person to front the March/April issue than Charlene McKenna, who will be lighting up our screens in the highly anticipated final season of Peaky Blinders this month, and Graham Norton’s Holding adaptation in March. The Monaghan native is in a newlywed bubble since her six-person wedding, and talks openly about imposter syndrome, getting ‘notions’, and renovating her dream house in her home county – read all about it on page 24.

Giving women’s voices a platform to share their experiences, from all walks of life, has always been an integral part of Irish Country Magazine, and this issue is no different. In January, the team attended the Dublin vigil for Ashling Murphy after her horrific death sent shockwaves through the country. On page 70 Róisín Healy brings us the latest on the measures to protect Ireland’s women and girls.

In our Inspiration Interview, page 20, meet Heather Skinner – a young woman who is passionate about sharing her story of her cancer diagnosis in order to encourage us all to be aware of our bodies and get checked. Her positivity and openness is a shining light which will give hope to those who need it.

With the release of her memoir Any Girl: A Memoir of Sexual Exploitation and Recovery, writer and psychotherapist Mia Döring shares a deeply personal essay on page 74. A take on the ‘letter to my 16-year-old self’ trend, Mia candidly speaks out about the years of trauma she endured since her world turned upside down as a teenager, and her journey of healing and self-acceptance.

The gender pay gap isn’t a new concept, but have you heard of the gender health gap? Janine Kennedy speaks to experts about how women’s health is systemically under-supported, and the women who’ve had to fight for their right to healthcare (page 66).

These stories are just a flavour of the amazing voices found throughout this issue. And I’d like to acknowledge one more brilliant woman, if I may. Our longstanding gardening columnist, Lily Champ, turned 90 recently. It’s not every day you have a nonagenarian columnist, and on behalf of all our lovely readers and team, we thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement Lily, and wish you a very happy birthday.

Discover the March/April issue of Irish Country Magazine in shops nationwide now or subscribe here.