That GIRL deserves a beer!

Born and bred, Martinborough local, Suzee Martin is one heck of a woman!

Daughter of local Fire Chief, Garry Jackson & the late Margaret Eileen Jackson, you can't help but respect her for tenacity and sheer staying power!

Suzee has lived in Martinborough for 34 years, though for a few years had a stint in Masterton and Feilding.

After the sad loss of her mother, which was  huge blow to the entire family, Suzee and her husband Chris relocated back to Martinborough.

This woman is formidable. Incredibly relaxed and in control, it is no wonder she effortlessly keeps things ticking in the kitchen at The Martinborough Hotel Bar & Grill.

A very happy day and memory for Suzee & Chris. Margaret Jackson (mother of bride) R.I.P

Suzee was wed to Chris Martin in 2008. Their eyes met when folding sheets? (or did I get that part wrong)? Oh, yes, it was a linen party, Chris's mother was demonstrating, at Suzee's home. (similar to a Tupperware party, if you remember those)  

April is absent in this photo.

As if the stress of running a kitchen isnt enough, Suzee is a mother of 6 children. April 19yrs, Matthew 14yrs, Samuel 13yrs, Alexis 8yrs, Seth 3yrs and wee Santana nearly 2yrs of age. Supported by her husband, Chris,  is the one who takes care of the children when Suzee is working. Chris, himself has 3 children to his previous relationship. Yes folks! That is 9 children altogether! *I feel exhausted writing this*

Suzee shared a remarkable story with me, in person. It is that of their youngest child at birth. A parents worst nightmare faced her and Chris with the arrival of their daughter, Santana. She was born with meconium aspiration, and after her first breath, went limp and the Doctor and nurses had to resuscitate her. http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/lungs/meconium.html#a_About_Meconium_Aspiration
The story has a happy ending. Santana is a mighty fine wee girl. She was born on Easter Sunday
(remember the resurrection story) and has a birthmark in the shape of an egg on her leg.  A miracle baby in the eyes of her parents, siblings & extended family. 

Spending time with Suzee and her 3 younger children, was a delight. Well mannered, well behaved and VERY calm & relaxed. It is obvious that the 'cool headed' approach at home, also has its way when under pressure in a commercial kitchen.

Jerry & Caroline Dolan (the bosses) sing her praises. Caroline, a young mother herself, hasnt a clue as to how she manages. They are continually impressed with her ability and sheer professionalism in the kitchen.

Are you tired yet, reading how much this young woman does in her average week?

WAIT - There's more!!!

Yes indeed...its a birthday cake!

 Suzee even finds time to bake and ice kids novelty birthday cakes!  Check these other cakes out! And this is her hobby? WOW...Jerry & Caroline - watch this space. This could easily be Suzee's profession. However Suzee is very happy working with the team at The Martinborough Hotel Bar & Grill. She has no intention of leaving.

This work of art took 5 1/2 hours just to make the Muppet figurines...AMAZING detail Suzee!

Wow...Is there another word I can use?

...and that's it folks. Let's take our hats off to this amazing young woman!

 Suzee - it has been a pleasure meeting with you  'Up Close & Personal'...thank you  for sharing your stories and opening your home to me.


FACTS ABOUT SUZEE:

1) Has eaten crocodile
2) Dislikes immensely Salmon or any fish for that matter (except Fush & Chips)
3) Loves Rum & Coke
4) Fears snakes & spiders

Just to finish off this interesting profile, think about this.

Coincidentally (or not), when Suzee was only 12yrs of age, she used to assist her mother at The Martinborough Hotel, as a waitress. I am guessing that, Margaret is having a wee giggle to herself saying "Thats my girl"...


Have a great week, one and all!

Caroline & Jerry - Their journey thus far...

It all began on a balmy palmy Carribean day....their eyes met for the first time.

The rest is history! One child,(adorable James)  two dogs later, they have found their home here in Martinborough.

Despite a few set backs, since their arrival the team spirit this young couple have is astounding. The staff at The Martinborough Hotel Bar & Grill are a very happy bunch. In fact after talking to a  few of them, they very much look forward to coming to work. 

Laughter and passion for what they do, is the key to the success of this vibrant hospitality team. Caroline & Jerry are the source of this atmosphere. It is only a matter of spending a little bit of time with them personally, you can see why the morale is so high, within the team.

Relocating from the UK (after many travel adventures individually, and together) they decided to settle in the Wairarapa. Jerry began working as a chef at Salute, moved to Alana Estate, Bloom and Caroline and he decided to take on the 'then' run down Martinborough Hotel Bar & Grill.

Hard work is part and parcel of forging ahead in this industry. Jerry and Caroline bring with them vast culinary experience ranging from Thai, Indian, Mediteranean & European cuisine.

With all of this culinary knowledge & expertise, it never ceases to amaze the couple, how many visitors & locals 'rave' about the Chargrilled Ribeye option from their bistro menu. One particular well traveled individual approached Caroline one night, expressing she had dined in some of the most prestigious restaurants around the world, and had paid triple the price, yet 'theirs' topped the list!  The couple attribute this to the personal care & attention in hanging of the meat for two days minimum, and extremely particular about the quality of the meat they source. Modest, I say.


A fond memory for the pair is naturally when they first met, in the year 2000 on a private Island called Parrot Cay in the Caribbean. Jerry was the sought after head chef of the Poolside Restaurant, on the island. Caroline was Executive Pastry Chef for the resort. 

This particular island is so private that no paparazzi can infiltrate. It is a holiday home to many celebrities including Bruce Willis.

Caroline delightfully told a story about a particular incident, involving her beloved, Jerry. He decided to enjoy the liberty of solace one particular day, by nude sunbathing on the beach. It was an isolated spot - so he thought. Unbeknown to Jerry, a boat arrived filled with new guests to the island. What did Jerry do, once he realised his dilemma? He covered his face with his t-shirt, in favour of his nether regions. Needless to say, he was called into the office the very next day. His justification for his actions, were "I didnt want anyone to see who I was"...Good on you Jerry! Now that is an 'Up Close & Personal' story.

Ask Jerry what happened to the Lion Head fountain...

In Rome

It was 2003 they wed. However, Caroline cannot remember for the life of her, what actual date they wed. We will need to ask Jerry.

When asked about the key reasons behind settling into Martinborough, they were answered without hesitation.
1) So much to see and do, regardless of its quaint size
2) Loves the minimal traffic (rewind to years previous at Piccadilly Station. Her mother, from a small country town (city in comparison to NZ towns) travelled the tube alongside Caroline, one day, when visiting. Her mother began laughing uncontrollably, as onlookers spied. When questioned by Caroline, as to why the out of character display of emotion,  her mother retorted "Look at them all - they are so miserable". This sums it up for Caroline. Martinborough offers the peace and tranquility that city dwellers do not experience in day to day happenings. Both Jerry and Caroline wanted a slower pace, bursting with culture - a hard quest ...however have found it amidst the community of Martinborough.

3) Friendliness of the locals. Again, this is a vast difference from massive cities like London.

Husband & Wife Team - Caroline & Jerry

The beautiful James...

Caroline's first drink, on arrival to NZ

NZ outdoor experience...

Their labour of love...

It has been an absolute pleasure meeting with Caroline and Jerry - the new operators of The Martinborough Hotel Bar & Grill. Not afraid of hard work, they are systematically & with passion, bringing Martinborough's  Grande Lady back to the status and reputation it deserves.  An invitation to all locals, and visitors is "come and share with them the future success of one of  Martinborough's most recognised landmarks.

Their success, is yours. Their journey has begun....

All the best Jerry & Caroline. We wish you every happiness and success.