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Asiana Wedding 58 - Aut/Win22 Mobile Version

The iconic Bridal Bible. Over 250 Pages of Fashion, Beauty & Planning to inspire your Big Day. Don't get married without it!

The iconic Bridal Bible. Over 250 Pages of Fashion, Beauty & Planning to inspire your Big Day. Don't get married without it!

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FOR THE ASIAN BRIDE WHO WANTS MORE<br />

ASIANA<br />

A/W 2022 • £4.50<br />

MOBILE EDITION<br />

PLANNING<br />

MADE EASY<br />

Expert advice<br />

to inspire your<br />

Big Day<br />

BUSINESS<br />

OF BEAUTY<br />

Secrets of the Social<br />

Media Superstars<br />

CATWALK<br />

REPORT<br />

<strong>Asiana</strong> Bridal<br />

Show London<br />

5 8 ><br />

9 7 7 1 7 4 2 2 3 7 0 0 9<br />

Heritage<br />

Queens


C O N T<br />

FASHION<br />

The Bride’s Guide<br />

Latest news from across the wedding industry<br />

Shop <strong>Asiana</strong><br />

The only online fashion portal you need<br />

Designer Profile<br />

Rajasthan’s leading couturist arrives in the UK<br />

<strong>Wedding</strong> Planning<br />

The <strong>Asiana</strong> <strong>Wedding</strong> Directory is at your service<br />

Catwalk Report<br />

Highlights from the <strong>Asiana</strong> Bridal Show 2022<br />

E<br />

N<br />

CELEBRITY<br />

Meet the Insta-preneurs


REAL LIFE<br />

WEDDINGS<br />

Your love stories<br />

Newlyweds share their magical memories<br />

PLANNING<br />

Bridal Notebook<br />

Your tick box guide to perfect planning<br />

Interiors<br />

Gorgeous ideas for your love nest<br />

Planning tools<br />

The new bridal marketplace for all your needs<br />

<strong>Wedding</strong> Planner<br />

Expert help for your destination wedding<br />

Party venues<br />

Book at table at the hottest new restaurant<br />

<strong>Wedding</strong> venues<br />

The UK’s best spots to tie the knot<br />

Venues abroad<br />

Get married at the Swissôtel The Bosphorus<br />

Food<br />

Introducing Madhu’s Istanbul<br />

Catering<br />

It’s not a party without the feast<br />

Signature Banqueting<br />

Chakra Events<br />

Sultan Caterers<br />

Entertainment<br />

Meet the new team behind Paragon<br />

Photography<br />

Top tips for choosing your photographer<br />

Theming ideas<br />

Create your own private shisha lounge<br />

Flowers<br />

How to choose your bridal bouquet<br />

Hen & Stag<br />

Fun ways to spend time with your friends<br />

Relationship<br />

Expert advice for settling into married life<br />

Style inspo<br />

Scent-sational candles for dark evenings<br />

BEAUTY<br />

Beauty News<br />

The latest industry innovations<br />

Aesthetics<br />

Professional treatments by<br />

the experts at Mi:Skin<br />

Henna<br />

The timeless appeal of an ancient art<br />

Skin<br />

Fast-track beauty innovations<br />

Hair<br />

Celebrity stylist Dar answers your question<br />

Beauty Solution<br />

Advice from Beauty Editor Anjana Gosai<br />

Health & Wellbeing<br />

Look after your mind, body and soul<br />

Dental<br />

Smile with confidence thanks to Dr Kal<br />

GROOM<br />

Grooming News<br />

Beauty isn’t just for brides<br />

Groom Notes<br />

Gifts for your groomsmen<br />

HONEYMOON<br />

Honeymoon News<br />

Where to go and what to take<br />

Hotel of The Season<br />

Boutique living in Istanbul<br />

First Night<br />

The best hotel suites for your minimoon<br />

Island paradise in Corfu<br />

Magnificent Majorca<br />

Eastern promises in Dubai<br />

and Oman<br />

REGULARS<br />

Get the cover look<br />

Secrets of The Queens of Istanbul<br />

Editor’s Letter<br />

Greetings from Istanbul<br />

<strong>Wedding</strong> Expert<br />

Sanjay Anand MBE has all the answers<br />

DIRECTORY<br />

Our guide to the best<br />

wedding service providers


Excellence and expertise…<br />

with a touch of brilliance<br />

www.madhus.co.uk


PRESENT...<br />

Sunday 19th February 2023<br />

Exhibition: 10am - 7pm<br />

THE SAVOY LONDON<br />

The Strand, London WC2R 0EZ<br />

Exhibition Stand EnquiriES: info@aSiana.tv<br />

tickEtS & info: www.aSianabridalShow.co.uk


BRIDAL MAKEUP • TRAINING COURSES<br />

lubnarafiq.com/lragency<br />

07939 15 44 00<br />

lubnarafiqacademy OfficialLubnaRafiq letsmakeupLR<br />

Outfit: Monga’s • Jewellery: Maala London


GET THECover Look<br />

EDITOR<br />

Indiya Ahmed<br />

BEAUTY EDITOR<br />

Anjana Gosai<br />

FEATURES EDITOR<br />

Momtaz Begum-Hossain<br />

WEDDING CONSULTANT<br />

Sanjay Anand<br />

•<br />

CONTRIBUTORS<br />

Imaan Ahmed, Amardeep Dadi<br />

Courtney Fontaine,<br />

Vinita Kalia, Ibraheem Khan,<br />

Sumaiyah Omar,<br />

Akib Rayhan, Zaf Shabir,<br />

Faeiza Sharifi,<br />

Alan Strutt<br />

•<br />

DIRECTOR OF SALES<br />

Cauvery Bhandari<br />

CORPORATE DIRECTOR<br />

Rajesh Nair<br />

•<br />

CHIEF EXECUTIVE<br />

Thufayel Ahmed<br />

•<br />

PUBLISHER<br />

Sarwar Ahmed<br />

•<br />

Outfits: Tehxeeb London • Hair & Make-Up: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency<br />

+ Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels<br />

DISTRIBUTION<br />

Newstrade: Postscriptum<br />

020 8526 7779<br />

Meet our Queens of Istanbul;<br />

two regal brides dressed in<br />

the riches of Pakistani couture.<br />

These elegant ensembles capture<br />

the spirit of the Turkish city<br />

- romance, heritage and tradition: the same<br />

characteristics that can be found in the threads<br />

of the bridalwear at Tehxeeb London.<br />

Classic red and gold have long been the<br />

choice for brides from all South Asian cultures<br />

and it’s experiencing a revival among young<br />

brides who are keen to go back to their roots.<br />

While the colour pairing will always have a<br />

timeless quality, the pieces are made more<br />

appealing thanks to their flattering, fitted cuts.<br />

The luxurious lengha is embellished with<br />

bold 3D embroidery and beading featured in<br />

simple fan motifs, while in the second outfit, a<br />

dramatic long jacket commands attention. It’s<br />

the ultimate outfit for an <strong>Aut</strong>umn/Winter bride,<br />

allowing them to make a grand statement<br />

during the cooler months when long sleeves<br />

are a relief.<br />

Birmingham-based bespoke jewellery brand<br />

Jauhar Jewels created grand bridal sets where<br />

the statement neckpiece connects with stylish<br />

head chains. Large tikkas frame the face using<br />

traditional Pakistani jewels in red and green,<br />

while nose rings add attitude.<br />

A traditional accessory that modern brides<br />

love to wear, bridal nose rings can completely<br />

transform your entire look with that extra,<br />

unexpected detail.<br />

For the make-up, Lubna Rafiq and her<br />

assistants opted for dark, alluring smoked eyes<br />

with soft pink lips. Blending brown and gold<br />

eyeshadows created an antique quality which<br />

harmonises with the heritage vibes of the<br />

outfits. Skin was made flawless with minimal<br />

contouring and just a splash of blush to<br />

highlight cheeks adding gentle drama to these<br />

timeless looks.<br />

Telephone: +44 (0) 203 8<strong>58</strong> 0727<br />

Email: (Firstname) @asiana.tv<br />

The design and artwork of all advertising<br />

produced by <strong>Asiana</strong> Media Ltd remains<br />

the copyright of <strong>Asiana</strong> Media Ltd and<br />

may not be reproduced in any other<br />

publication or any other media without<br />

our express written permission.<br />

All rights reserved.<br />

No part of this publication may be<br />

reproduced or used in any form.<br />

without the express written<br />

permission of the publisher.<br />

Copyright © 2022 <strong>Asiana</strong> Media Ltd.<br />

Licensed from Ahmed Concepts Ltd<br />

www.asiana.tv


BRIDAL MAKEUP • TRAINING COURSES<br />

lubnarafiq.com/lragency<br />

07939 15 44 00<br />

lubnarafiqacademy OfficialLubnaRafiq letsmakeupLR<br />

Outfits: Tehxeeb London • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels


EDITOR’SLetter<br />

I encourage all of you beautiful<br />

ladies out there to be confident, to<br />

dream big and to work hard like the<br />

queens you are to boss it up!<br />

I’m currently sitting in Istanbul after a long day<br />

of shooting with our two beautiful cover models.<br />

The team have been working extremely hard<br />

to produce the new edition of <strong>Asiana</strong> <strong>Wedding</strong>!<br />

Turkey has always been one of my favourite<br />

holiday destinations. The picturesque views, historical mosques,<br />

mesmerising palaces and luxury resorts make it an extraordinary<br />

place to visit, and to do a photoshoot! Between the hustle and<br />

bustle of styling bridal lenghas, directing photography and<br />

searching for breathtaking locations to produce the bridal bible<br />

you’re holding, I thought I’d take some time out to write this<br />

letter to you; call this your postcard from <strong>Asiana</strong>.<br />

We chose Istanbul as the location for our <strong>Aut</strong>umn/Winter<br />

edition; a destination where we could tell a unique story for the<br />

fashion campaigns we have created for the biggest brands in<br />

the Asian bridal industry - (wait until you see the extraordinary<br />

250-year-old hammam in which we shot Khushboo’s By Chand’s<br />

alluring veiled goddess campaign, it’s one of my favourites!)<br />

I’d like to also congratulate Madhu’s for the opening of their<br />

first international restaurant in Istanbul at The Swissôtel, The<br />

Bosphorus and a big thank you for inviting <strong>Asiana</strong> out there and<br />

hosting our photoshoot trip. I wish them luck on their remarkable<br />

new business venture! The food and restaurant are exquisite and<br />

you can find out more on page 182.<br />

Our cover campaign is extremely special to me, as it’s been so<br />

long since traditional red was brought back in trend. The last<br />

time <strong>Asiana</strong> featured this timeless shade was pre-pandemic in<br />

2018 when Bipasha Basu graced our cover and I’m pleased to say<br />

that true to tradition, red is trending again.<br />

This edition also highlights our exquisite catwalk report from<br />

The <strong>Asiana</strong> Bridal show at Grosvenor House 2022, showcasing<br />

a variety of luxury collections from all the top fashion brands for<br />

planning your big day. I’m also excited to announce our upcoming<br />

Elite <strong>Asiana</strong> Bridal Show 2023 will be taking place at The Savoy<br />

London on the 5th of February. Along with our partners Madhu’s<br />

and Sunrise Radio, I look forward to welcoming all you brides-tobe<br />

as you embark on your wedding journey.<br />

Until then, if you’re currently in the midst of planning I<br />

hope this issue helps you with the preparation for your special<br />

day - get inspired by grand wedding venues, caterers, flowers,<br />

entertainment and so much more. We’ve also featured quite a<br />

variety of exotic honeymoon destinations so be sure to check out<br />

our hand-picked lush destinations.<br />

I think as much as we can get carried away with wedding<br />

planning, which is a tough procedure, the hardest part is<br />

transitioning into an actual marriage. We don’t speak about this<br />

enough in the South Asian community. However, if you turn<br />

to page 204 I’d encourage you to read our trending article on<br />

relationships - including marital advice given by a world-class<br />

doctor and eminent psychologist.<br />

Finally… I can’t forget to mention our brilliant girl power<br />

influencer shoot featuring some of the UK’s top South Asian<br />

influential women of date. If you visit page 98 you can see the<br />

luxurious makeover and photo shoot spread <strong>Asiana</strong> has created<br />

along with a feature on all of these hard working and successful<br />

women who run their own businesses. I am a huge advocate of<br />

women’s empowerment - so I encourage all of you beautiful ladies<br />

out there to be confident, to dream big and to work hard like the<br />

queens you are to boss it up!<br />

Like us on Facebook<br />

asianamagazine<br />

<strong>Asiana</strong><br />

asianatv<br />

Follow us on Instagram<br />

asianatv<br />

Follow us on Twitter<br />

asianamagazine<br />

Indiya Ahmed<br />

Editor<br />

indiya@asiana.tv


Shisha Catering For Your Big Day


Hair & Makup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London • Location: Madhu’s Istanbul, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Turkeyº<br />

BROWSE ALL YOUR FAVOURITE BRANDS ONLINE<br />

www.shop.asiana.tv


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels<br />

197 ILFORD LANE, ILFORD, ESSEX LONDON IG1 2RU<br />

02033056778, 07867339737<br />

456 STRATFORD ROAD BIRMINGHAM B11 4AE<br />

0121 7942181, 07483906161<br />

www.tehxeeblondon.co.uk


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels<br />

197 ILFORD LANE, ILFORD, ESSEX LONDON IG1 2RU<br />

02033056778, 07867339737<br />

456 STRATFORD ROAD BIRMINGHAM B11 4AE<br />

0121 7942181, 07483906161<br />

www.tehxeeblondon.co.uk


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels<br />

197 ILFORD LANE, ILFORD, ESSEX LONDON IG1 2RU<br />

02033056778, 07867339737<br />

456 STRATFORD ROAD BIRMINGHAM B11 4AE<br />

0121 7942181, 07483906161<br />

www.tehxeeblondon.co.uk


197 ILFORD LANE, ILFORD, ESSEX LONDON IG1 2RU<br />

02033056778, 07867339737<br />

456 STRATFORD ROAD BIRMINGHAM B11 4AE<br />

0121 7942181, 07483906161<br />

www.tehxeeblondon.co.uk<br />

Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels<br />

197 ILFORD LANE, ILFORD, ESSEX LONDON IG1 2RU<br />

02033056778, 07867339737<br />

456 STRATFORD ROAD BIRMINGHAM B11 4AE<br />

0121 7942181, 07483906161<br />

www.tehxeeblondon.co.uk


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels<br />

197 ILFORD LANE, ILFORD, ESSEX LONDON IG1 2RU<br />

02033056778, 07867339737<br />

456 STRATFORD ROAD BIRMINGHAM B11 4AE<br />

0121 7942181, 07483906161<br />

www.tehxeeblondon.co.uk


BIRMINGHAM<br />

BY ASIF MALIK<br />

www.sache.co.uk<br />

115 Alum Rock Road, Birmingham B8 1ND<br />

Info/Appointments: 0121 328 7024<br />

SachebyAsif<br />

Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels<br />

BIRMINGHAM<br />

BY ASIF MALIK<br />

www.sache.co.uk<br />

115 Alum Rock Road, Birmingham B8 1ND<br />

Info/Appointments: 0121 328 7024<br />

SachebyAsif


BIRMINGHAM<br />

BY ASIF MALIK<br />

www.sache.co.uk<br />

115 Alum Rock Road, Birmingham B8 1ND<br />

Info/Appointments: 0121 328 7024<br />

SachebyAsif


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi<br />

Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels<br />

BIRMINGHAM<br />

BY ASIF MALIK<br />

www.sache.co.uk<br />

115 Alum Rock Road, Birmingham B8 1ND<br />

Info/Appointments: 0121 328 7024<br />

SachebyAsif


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels<br />

BIRMINGHAM<br />

BY ASIF MALIK<br />

www.sache.co.uk<br />

115 Alum Rock Road, Birmingham B8 1ND<br />

Info/Appointments: 0121 328 7024<br />

SachebyAsif


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Jauhar Jewels<br />

BIRMINGHAM<br />

BY ASIF MALIK<br />

BIRMINGHAM<br />

BY ASIF MALIK<br />

www.sache.co.uk<br />

115 Alum Rock Road, Birmingham B8 1ND<br />

Info/Appointments: 0121 328 7024<br />

SachebyAsif<br />

www.sache.co.uk<br />

115 Alum Rock Road, Birmingham B8 1ND<br />

Info/Appointments: 0121 328 7024<br />

SachebyAsif


Hair & Makup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup<br />

Jewellery: Maala London • Location: Madhu’s Istanbul, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Turkey<br />

0% FINANCE AVAILABLE<br />

Apply in-store or call for details:<br />

T: 0208 574 4863 / 0208 843 0111<br />

UK Flagship Store:<br />

60-66 The Broadway, Southall<br />

INDIA: A-69 Block A<br />

Naraina Industrial Area Phase 1<br />

Naraina, Delhi 110028<br />

T: +91 114234 <strong>58</strong>02<br />

E: mongasuk@gmail.com<br />

Shop online @ www.mongas.co.uk


Hair & Makup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London • Location: Madhu’s Istanbul, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Turkey<br />

0% FINANCE AVAILABLE<br />

Apply in-store or call for details:<br />

T: 0208 574 4863 / 0208 843 0111<br />

UK Flagship Store:<br />

60-66 The Broadway, Southall<br />

INDIA: A-69 Block A<br />

Naraina Industrial Area Phase 1<br />

Naraina, Delhi 110028<br />

T: +91 114234 <strong>58</strong>02<br />

E: mongasuk@gmail.com<br />

Shop online @ www.mongas.co.uk


Hair & Makup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London • Location: Madhu’s Istanbul, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Turkeyº<br />

0% FINANCE AVAILABLE<br />

Apply in-store or call for details:<br />

T: 0208 574 4863 / 0208 843 0111<br />

UK Flagship Store:<br />

60-66 The Broadway, Southall<br />

INDIA: A-69 Block A<br />

Naraina Industrial Area Phase 1<br />

Naraina, Delhi 110028<br />

T: +91 114234 <strong>58</strong>02<br />

E: mongasuk@gmail.com<br />

Shop online @ www.mongas.co.uk


Hair & Makup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi<br />

Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Crown: Vintage Kace<br />

Location: MGallery The Galata Hotel Istanbul, Turkey<br />

EXCLUSIVE MADE TO MEASURE<br />

BRIDAL BOOKINGS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY<br />

218-220 Ladypool Road, Birmingham B12 8JT<br />

0121 753 3045<br />

Khushboosbychand aminahcdk


Hair & Makup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi<br />

Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Crown: Vintage Kace • Location: MGallery The Galata Hotel Istanbul, Turkey<br />

EXCLUSIVE MADE TO MEASURE<br />

BRIDAL BOOKINGS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY<br />

218-220 Ladypool Road, Birmingham B12 8JT<br />

0121 753 3045<br />

Khushboosbychand aminahcdk


Hair & Makup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Crown: Vintage Kace<br />

EXCLUSIVE MADE TO MEASURE<br />

BRIDAL BOOKINGS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY<br />

218-220 Ladypool Road, Birmingham B12 8JT<br />

0121 753 3045<br />

Khushboosbychand aminahcdk


EXCLUSIVE MADE TO MEASURE<br />

BRIDAL BOOKINGS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY<br />

218-220 Ladypool Road, Birmingham B12 8JT<br />

0121 753 3045<br />

Khushboosbychand aminahcdk<br />

Hair & Makup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi<br />

Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Crown: Vintage Kace


EXCLUSIVE MADE TO MEASURE<br />

BRIDAL BOOKINGS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY<br />

218-220 Ladypool Road, Birmingham B12 8JT<br />

0121 753 3045<br />

Khushboosbychand aminahcdk<br />

Hair & Makup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Crown: Vintage Kace


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London • Location: Madhu’s Istanbul, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Turkey<br />

PLOT NO: 148,149 FRONTIER<br />

COLONY, ADARSH NAGAR,<br />

NR HOTEL DIVINE, JAIPUR 302004,<br />

RAJASTHAN, INDIA<br />

T: +91-9660504407<br />

www.haneetsingh.com


PLOT NO: 148,149 FRONTIER<br />

COLONY, ADARSH NAGAR,<br />

NR HOTEL DIVINE, JAIPUR 302004,<br />

RAJASTHAN, INDIA<br />

T: +91-9660504407<br />

www.haneetsingh.com<br />

Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London • Location: Madhu’s Istanbul, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Turkey


PLOT NO: 148,149 FRONTIER<br />

COLONY, ADARSH NAGAR,<br />

NR HOTEL DIVINE, JAIPUR 302004,<br />

RAJASTHAN, INDIA<br />

T: +91-9660504407<br />

www.haneetsingh.com<br />

Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London • Location: Madhu’s Istanbul, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Turkey


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London • Location: Madhu’s Istanbul, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Turkey<br />

PLOT NO: 148,149 FRONTIER<br />

COLONY, ADARSH NAGAR,<br />

NR HOTEL DIVINE, JAIPUR 302004,<br />

RAJASTHAN, INDIA<br />

T: +91-9660504407<br />

www.haneetsingh.com


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London • Location: Madhu’s Istanbul, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Turkey<br />

PLOT NO: 148,149 FRONTIER<br />

COLONY, ADARSH NAGAR,<br />

NR HOTEL DIVINE, JAIPUR 302004,<br />

RAJASTHAN, INDIA<br />

T: +91-9660504407<br />

www.haneetsingh.com


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency<br />

Lab-Grown Diamonds<br />

now available in store<br />

320 Farnham Road, Slough, SL2 1BT<br />

T: 01753 533 500<br />

www.ganeshjewels.co.uk


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency<br />

Lab-Grown Diamonds<br />

now available in store<br />

320 Farnham Road, Slough, SL2 1BT<br />

T: 01753 533 500<br />

www.ganeshjewels.co.uk


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency<br />

Lab-Grown Diamonds<br />

now available in store<br />

320 Farnham Road, Slough, SL2 1BT<br />

T: 01753 533 500<br />

www.ganeshjewels.co.uk


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency<br />

Lab-Grown Diamonds<br />

now available in store<br />

320 Farnham Road, Slough, SL2 1BT<br />

T: 01753 533 500<br />

www.ganeshjewels.co.uk


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London<br />

161 Ladypool Road, Birmingham,<br />

West Midlands B12 8LQ<br />

T: 0121 446 4541<br />

E: panache_786@yahoo.com<br />

www.panache.boutique<br />

panacheboutiquebirmingham


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London<br />

161 Ladypool Road, Birmingham,<br />

West Midlands B12 8LQ<br />

T: 0121 446 4541<br />

E: panache_786@yahoo.com<br />

www.panache.boutique<br />

panacheboutiquebirmingham


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London<br />

161 Ladypool Road, Birmingham,<br />

West Midlands B12 8LQ<br />

T: 0121 446 4541<br />

E: panache_786@yahoo.com<br />

www.panache.boutique<br />

panacheboutiquebirmingham


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London<br />

161 Ladypool Road, Birmingham,<br />

West Midlands B12 8LQ<br />

T: 0121 446 4541<br />

E: panache_786@yahoo.com<br />

www.panache.boutique<br />

panacheboutiquebirmingham


161 Ladypool Road, Birmingham,<br />

West Midlands B12 8LQ<br />

T: 0121 446 4541<br />

E: panache_786@yahoo.com<br />

www.panache.boutique<br />

panacheboutiquebirmingham<br />

Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London


Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Outfit: Tehxeeb London<br />

Couture Bridal Sets • Special Occasion Jewellery<br />

Visit our Luxury Boutique to experience an Exclusive Personal Service<br />

176A Ladypool Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham B12 8JS<br />

T: 07361 242 768 • E: jauharjewels@outlook.com<br />

www.jauharjewels.co.uk


Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi<br />

Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Outfit: Tehxeeb London<br />

Couture Bridal Sets • Special Occasion Jewellery<br />

Visit our Luxury Boutique to experience an Exclusive Personal Service<br />

176A Ladypool Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham B12 8JS<br />

T: 07361 242 768 • E: jauharjewels@outlook.com<br />

www.jauharjewels.co.uk


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi<br />

Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Kyles Collection • Mirrors: Vintage Kace<br />

60-62 Alum Rock Road, Birmingham B8 1JA<br />

T: 0121 328 5355 • E: info@chunriuk.com<br />

www.chunriuk.com


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi<br />

Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Kyles Collection • Mirrors: Vintage Kace<br />

60-62 Alum Rock Road,<br />

Birmingham B8 1JA<br />

T: 0121 328 5355<br />

E: info@chunriuk.com<br />

www.chunriuk.com


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi<br />

Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Kyles Collection • Mirrors: Vintage Kace<br />

60-62 Alum Rock Road,<br />

Birmingham B8 1JA<br />

T: 0121 328 5355<br />

E: info@chunriuk.com<br />

www.chunriuk.com


Hair & Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi<br />

Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Kyles Collection • Mirrors: Vintage Kace<br />

60-62 Alum Rock Road,<br />

Birmingham B8 1JA<br />

T: 0121 328 5355<br />

E: info@chunriuk.com<br />

www.chunriuk.com


60-62 Alum Rock Road,<br />

Birmingham B8 1JA<br />

T: 0121 328 5355<br />

E: info@chunriuk.com<br />

www.chunriuk.com


JEMELIN ARTIGAS<br />

@JEMELIN ARTIGAS<br />

SUMAIYAH OMAR<br />

@FLAWLESSBYSUMAIYAH<br />

SOCIAL MEDIA<br />

MEHRUNNISA RAJA<br />

@FOREVER.FLEEK<br />

KIRAN KAUR<br />

@KBELLEBEAUTY<br />

KADEEJA SEL KHAN<br />

@EMERALDXBEAUTY<br />

BOSS BABES<br />

These five female founders have built up their own social media empires<br />

to become powerful, passion-driven young businesswomen.<br />

Meet the Insta-preneurs…<br />

Concept & Styling: Indiya Ahmed • Photography: Alan Strutt<br />

Hair & Make-Up: Lubna Rafiq • Outfits: Tehxeeb London • Jewellery: Nargis Collections<br />

Words: Momtaz Begum-Hossain


Hair & Make-Up: Lubna Rafiq<br />

Outfits: Tehxeeb London<br />

Jewellery: Nargis Collections<br />

“These inspirational women have proven that building a brand from your bedroom<br />

isn’t a dream. Your hobbies can turn into a business that can change your life”<br />

Indiya Ahmed, EDITOR<br />

<strong>Asiana</strong> <strong>Wedding</strong> Magazine<br />

successful<br />

women in business<br />

is the number one<br />

inspiration that<br />

“Seeing<br />

can change a young<br />

person’s outlook on life, giving them<br />

hope and motivation. At <strong>Asiana</strong>, we’re<br />

passionate about ‘sisters doing it for<br />

themselves’ something that I champion<br />

myself,” Indiya Ahmed, Editor and<br />

Creative Director of <strong>Asiana</strong> <strong>Wedding</strong><br />

Magazine, <strong>Asiana</strong>TV and the <strong>Asiana</strong><br />

Bridal Shows heads up the biggest<br />

bridal brand in the UK and as a young<br />

female entrepreneur she’s aware of<br />

the challenges women in business<br />

face. So this issue we’re talking to the<br />

some of the most influential voices in<br />

the industry, and sharing their stories<br />

to inspire a new generation of young<br />

women to feel empowered to follow their<br />

own paths too.<br />

“Female role models empower other<br />

women more than anything else, and<br />

that’s exactly what inspired our feature.<br />

I wanted to give our readers words of<br />

wisdom that will help them live the<br />

lives they strive for. These five inspiring<br />

women have proven that building a brand<br />

from your bedroom isn’t a dream. Social<br />

media has given everyone a platform<br />

to showcase their passions and talents<br />

and when that passion connects with an<br />

audience, your hobbies can turn into a<br />

business that can change your life;” says<br />

Indiya.<br />

Social media often only shows the<br />

glamorous side of being a high-flying<br />

entrepreneur but Indiya was keen to<br />

highlight the other side of the story:<br />

“So much hard work goes into running<br />

your own business, much of it fans and<br />

followers will never get to see. As someone<br />

who works 24/7 and is committed to her<br />

career 100% of the time I know the reality<br />

and the pressures each of our influential<br />

entrepreneurs face so in our interviews I<br />

asked them to be honest about what life is<br />

really like being a successful powerhouse<br />

- you may be surprised with what you<br />

discover.<br />

Whether it’s collaborating with brands<br />

or launching their own empire, these wellknown<br />

social media figures are finding<br />

inspiring and innovative ways to make a<br />

living from their online fame and we are<br />

so here for it!<br />

Introducing the entrepreneurial<br />

influencers who are shaping the future of<br />

women in business…


Hair & Make-Up: Lubna Rafiq<br />

Outfits: Tehxeeb London<br />

Jewellery: Nargis Collections<br />

“SOMETHING I’M PROUD OF<br />

IS THERE AREN’T MANY<br />

SIKH WOMEN BIG IN THE<br />

FAST-FASHION INSTAGRAM<br />

FIELD. I AM ONE OF<br />

A HANDFUL. I NEVER<br />

THOUGHT I WOULD BE<br />

“INSTA-FAMOUS”, IT JUST<br />

KIND OF HAPPENED!”<br />

102 | ASIANA WEDDING


Kiran<br />

KBelleBeauty<br />

SOCIAL MEDIA<br />

Entrepreneur, Influencer, Owner of hair<br />

extensions brand GL Hair<br />

kbellebeauty<br />

Kiran’s journey began as the ordinary girl-nextdoor,<br />

like many of us posting on Instagram for<br />

friends and family to like; only fate had other<br />

plans. Her striking looks and beautiful images<br />

caught the eye of brands and that’s how her<br />

influence began to spread. She explains: “I<br />

started posting pictures on Instagram for fun.<br />

Then fashion brands started reaching out to<br />

me for collaborations. I now work with almost<br />

every world-famous fashion brand you can<br />

imagine which is something I’m proud of as there<br />

aren’t many Sikh women big in the fast-fashion<br />

Instagram field, I am one of a handful. I never<br />

thought I would be ‘Insta-famous’, it just kind of<br />

happened.”<br />

With nearly 400,000 followers looking to her<br />

for inspiration, Kiran realised she had a captive<br />

audience who were keen to support her, so<br />

made the most of the opportunity by becoming<br />

an entrepreneur. She enthuses: “I am now the<br />

director of 14 companies which includes hair<br />

extensions brand GL Hair which I started straight<br />

after university, along with salons and many other<br />

brands. I came from a humble beginning so I’m<br />

very proud of how far I’ve come, 10-year-old me<br />

would be crying if they could see me now!”<br />

Influencers typically have several strands of<br />

income, which has also proved profitable for<br />

Kiran. She says: “I now run my companies full<br />

time and spend about 20% of my time taking on<br />

brand deals and collaborations. I would say I’m<br />

predominantly a businesswoman rather than<br />

an influencer. Fun fact, I set up my Instagram<br />

account in 2013 for my salon at the time but then<br />

changed it to an influencer account and I’m now a<br />

household name in the Western fashion industry.”<br />

What’s so refreshing and appealing about Kiran<br />

is that she’s not afraid to take on challenges<br />

and that’s part of her success. She admits: “I<br />

had absolutely zero experience or a background<br />

in business before starting my brands. I had to<br />

learn everything from scratch which included<br />

marketing, recruitment, sourcing products,<br />

negotiations, branding and social media - you<br />

name it I can wear every hat when it comes to<br />

business. I’m not afraid of anything and love the<br />

challenges that business brings. I also believe that<br />

as a female entrepreneur, you must keep striving<br />

for more.”


Hair & Make-Up: Lubna Rafiq<br />

Outfits: Tehxeeb London<br />

Jewellery: Nargis Collections<br />

Jemelin<br />

Artigas<br />

Presenter, Model and CEO<br />

I-Growth Social Media Experts<br />

jemelinartigas<br />

Jemelin’s rise to success reads like the pages<br />

of a fairytale. An immigrant from Venezuela<br />

she arrived in the UK without a home and<br />

worked as a cleaner to survive, but during<br />

these toughest times, she clung to her<br />

self-belief and determination. She’s now a<br />

successful presenter and entrepreneur with<br />

a thriving business, following her appearance<br />

on BBC’s The Apprentice and she’s also the<br />

first Latin American to be featured in <strong>Asiana</strong>.<br />

She enthuses: “In terms of traditions we are<br />

very similar! We love food, family and enjoy<br />

life. I also have a close connection to South<br />

Asian culture as my husband is from India.”<br />

Speaking about the challenge of trying to<br />

survive and thrive when she first moved to the<br />

UK, Jemelin found strength in thinking about<br />

her mother. She confesses: “One of the biggest<br />

motivations was what my mum taught me<br />

growing up. She always said no matter what<br />

you do even if you are a street cleaner make<br />

sure you are the best street cleaner out there.<br />

I also believe that success isn’t something you<br />

reach. Success is the ability to keep growing,<br />

no matter how many times you fail: learn from<br />

it, get up and keep trying.”<br />

Jemelin’s resilience is so inspiring that it’s<br />

no wonder she struck a chord with so many<br />

people on social media. She says: “I think by<br />

being fully transparent on the reality of being<br />

an entrepreneur and the struggles, a lot of<br />

people resonate with me because I always<br />

show them my most vulnerable side and<br />

share my story of coming from nothing.”<br />

This influence grew after she was selected<br />

from over 75 thousand applicants to be on<br />

season 15 of The Apprentice; where she learnt<br />

entrepreneurial skills that transformed her<br />

life. She says: “I had never been to university<br />

nor had a corporate job. I definitely had never<br />

been in a boardroom but I didn’t let that stop<br />

me. I was the project manager on our first<br />

task in Cape Town and constantly put myself<br />

forward for all the tasks. I learnt a lot on the<br />

show: to be more determined and a fast<br />

decision-maker, to take more action instead<br />

of just talking, and to learn while you are at it<br />

- which is what we did on the show. That was<br />

my biggest takeaway. You don’t need to wait,<br />

just do it!”


SOCIAL MEDIA<br />

Since the show, Jemelin has followed her<br />

passion for social media to create I-Growth,<br />

which connects content creators and<br />

influencers with brands; a fresh new business<br />

concept that couldn’t be more relevant. She<br />

explains: “We live in an era where adverts are<br />

out-dated. Brands prefer to humanise their<br />

brand by working with a social influencer that<br />

has an audience that trusts them. 10 years<br />

ago this type of business didn’t exist but as<br />

someone that has experienced it first-hand,<br />

I’m excited to help other women to find their<br />

voice and their purpose.”<br />

Don’t feel intimidated if you don’t yet have<br />

the follower community you want; it takes<br />

time to build this trust but don’t give up.<br />

Jemelin says: “Be clear in what you represent.<br />

A lot of people want to be an influencer for<br />

the fame and so-called influencer lifestyle<br />

which many think is so glamorous but trust<br />

me when I say it’s anything but. Understand<br />

that it takes time to build a following and is<br />

not just about growing your followers but also<br />

creating a community around that and that<br />

is the difficult part because it requires a lot of<br />

time and effort. Be mindful of what content<br />

you put out. Ask yourself does this content<br />

really resonate with the audience I want to<br />

attract or just simply look good? Strategise<br />

everything you put out.<br />

“We are launching a free course soon that<br />

explains everything from different ways of<br />

growing to how to strategise - so definitely<br />

give us a follow on Instagram<br />

@igrowthsocialmediaexperts to learn new<br />

skills that could shape your future.”<br />

“SUCCESS IS THE ABILITY<br />

TO KEEP GROWING, NO<br />

MATTER HOW MANY<br />

TIMES YOU FAIL: LEARN<br />

FROM IT, GET UP AND<br />

KEEP TRYING.”


Hair & Make-Up: Lubna Rafiq<br />

Outfits: Tehxeeb London<br />

Jewellery: Nargis Collections<br />

“I WANTED TO BE THE CHANGE.<br />

I WANTED TO SHOW THE WORLD<br />

THAT IT’S OKAY TO BE YOURSELF<br />

AND EMBRACE WHO YOU ARE”


Kadeeja Sel Khan<br />

SOCIAL MEDIA<br />

Model and Skin Activist<br />

emeraldxbeauty<br />

Staying authentic to yourself is the number one<br />

reason a follower connects with you and hits the<br />

‘follow’ or subscribe button. They become drawn to<br />

your unique story which builds trust and support,<br />

and this is something that Kadeeja discovered when<br />

she decided to post, unfiltered photos of her acneprone<br />

skin.<br />

She didn’t realise at the time that by taking the<br />

brave step to show her imperfections, it would elevate<br />

her profile, launch her career and transform her into<br />

an influential Skin Activist; it certainly wasn’t an<br />

easy journey. She reveals:<br />

“Having acne prone skin from the age of 11 was<br />

very difficult. It was hard to adjust to and hard to live<br />

with. As I got older I felt like my skin wasn’t getting<br />

any better, in fact, I felt like it was getting worse.<br />

When I came onto social media and saw so many<br />

perfect faces and bodies it would have been easy to<br />

feel intimidated but instead, I felt that I wanted to be<br />

the change. I wanted to show the world that it’s okay<br />

to be yourself and embrace who you are.”<br />

Kadeeja had no idea that her honest approach<br />

would resonate with an international audience, this<br />

was the first time many of them felt seen and heard.<br />

She believed she was spreading positive messages<br />

about real beauty through her photos and videos but<br />

never expected anything more than a few likes. She<br />

says: “I didn’t realise I was blowing up. It just felt<br />

like my positive messages started being heard and<br />

then everything changed.”<br />

The biggest brands in the beauty industry noticed<br />

Kadeeja and wanted to work with her. She was<br />

booked as a model for adverts and campaigns for<br />

global brands like Rimmel London and Makeup<br />

Revolution. “My highlight was definitely doing an<br />

advert with Rita Ora for Rimmel London. I was<br />

so proud of my collaboration with Rita and Cara<br />

Delavigne. I mean, I could only dream of something<br />

like that, so to have that be the reality for me was<br />

very overwhelming. It’s actually crazy because as a<br />

teenager my reason behind wanting blonde hair was<br />

because of Rita Ora. I admired her so much and a few<br />

years later I was working with her, it was insane!”<br />

But the pinch-me moments haven’t stopped there<br />

for Kadeeja whose entrepreneurial successes and<br />

influence keep growing. Another standout moment<br />

for her was collaborating with Inglot. She admits:<br />

“Being in Westfield shopping centre and seeing<br />

my face on the Inglot counter, such a well-known<br />

beauty brand, was an amazing opportunity that<br />

I’m so grateful for. I never knew that sitting at<br />

home making videos and sharing photos of my<br />

everyday life could bring me so many extraordinary<br />

opportunities.”


Sumaiyah Omar<br />

Beauty Influencer and MUA<br />

flawlessbysumaiyah<br />

“Instagram and make-up artists go together like strawberries<br />

and cream. They’re a match made in beauty heaven!” enthuses<br />

Sumaiyah, who has built her brand fuelled by her passion for<br />

beauty. She grew her influence by staying committed and pushing<br />

herself by upskilling. She says: “When I first created an Instagram<br />

account I felt absolutely lost. I posted regular content about my<br />

day, make-up and skincare and it was a fun way to build a small<br />

and steady following. I knew that one day these followers could<br />

be potential clients but I had to think outside of the box to push<br />

through to the next level.”<br />

Working at a beauty counter gave Sumaiyah practical<br />

experience, helping her keep up-to-date with beauty trends and<br />

gaining confidence in her entrepreneurial endeavours. In order to<br />

get noticed she started tagging influencers and entrepreneurs she<br />

admired and that’s when her journey really kicked off. She says:<br />

“I got noticed by Zukreat, a renowned entrepreneur that was one<br />

of the first hijabi make-up artists to become a YouTube sensation.<br />

Investing in her make-up course was one of the best decisions I<br />

made in my career. Learning from someone that is a prominent<br />

figure on social media took my approach to another level. I<br />

purchased a whole new kit, invested in good lighting and started to<br />

create looks on myself.”<br />

Sumaiyah’s numbers kept growing and enquiries for her MUA skills<br />

came flooding in - but she didn’t stop at doing make-up, she also<br />

became Zukreat’s PA. She says: “I practically ate, slept and breathed<br />

make-up. I worked in multiple locations around the UK and Instagram<br />

allowed me to share all my amazing experiences on the way.”<br />

But Sumaiyah didn’t just post randomly, she began using<br />

Instagram tools and strategies to monitor her progress. She admits:<br />

“I kept a work diary and planned client meetings, shoot days and<br />

blogging days. I researched trending videos and songs every day -<br />

sometimes this content took hours to create, But I never gave up.”<br />

Motivated by her goal of becoming a celebrity MUA Sumaiyah<br />

continued to learn and be inspired by the best in the industry.<br />

She says: “I’ve always had a make-up crush on Huda Kattan. A<br />

beauty influencer turned entrepreneur and pioneer in the make-up<br />

industry. She started out just like the rest of us. A woman that<br />

wanted to make it for herself - she is an inspiration to all women.”<br />

It was feeling empowered by other female entrepreneurs that<br />

gave Sumaiyah the edge to keep pushing herself. She says: “My<br />

mindset is key. If I want to do something I grab it with both hands.<br />

I took a masterclass with @makeupbymario Kim Kardashian’s<br />

make-up artist where I developed amazing techniques. Again, this<br />

was another great decision in my career. I instantly started getting<br />

recognition from celebrity agents that I networked with in previous<br />

events and that’s how I landed my first Pakistani actress Mahira<br />

Khan. Working on her was an absolute dream and it opened up a<br />

world of opportunities for me.”<br />

But these opportunities haven’t been handed to Sumaiyah on a<br />

plate. It is sheer hard work and consistency that have helped her<br />

achieve her dreams: “I’m always hungry for new opportunities and<br />

I’m not afraid to reach out to brands. They won’t always come<br />

to you, you have to write that email, send it, make that meeting<br />

happen and sell yourself.”<br />

108 | ASIANA WEDDING


“I’VE ALWAYS HAD A MAKE-UP<br />

CRUSH ON HUDA KATTAN. A<br />

BEAUTY INFLUENCER TURNED<br />

ENTREPRENEUR AND PIONEER<br />

IN THE INDUSTRY - SHE IS<br />

AN INSPIRATION TO<br />

ALL WOMEN.”<br />

SOCIAL MEDIA<br />

Hair & Make-Up: Lubna Rafiq<br />

Outfits: Tehxeeb London<br />

Jewellery: Nargis Collections


Hair & Make-Up: Lubna Rafiq<br />

Outfits: Tehxeeb London<br />

Jewellery: Nargis Collections<br />

Mehrunnisa<br />

Beauty Influencer & Founder<br />

WithUns Cosmetics<br />

forever.fleek<br />

Mehrunnisa began posting on Instagram<br />

when she was 14, using it as an outlet to<br />

share her creative make-up looks. Her<br />

talents and consistency connected with her<br />

audience and she experienced phenomenal<br />

growth just by being herself. She enthuses:<br />

“I didn’t think I would ever hit over 1000<br />

followers, but here I am with over 100,000!<br />

I believed in my content and worked hard.<br />

When you truly believe in something you<br />

will always bring it to life.”<br />

Though her following is impressive,<br />

propelling her into the league of elite<br />

content creators, she firmly believes that<br />

numbers don’t matter. Everyone should<br />

give their business ideas a go. She advises:<br />

“I believe if you want to do something,<br />

especially when it comes to business,<br />

you should start as soon as you can.<br />

You’ll always be learning new things and<br />

improving your brand. Instead of delaying<br />

things start now. Followers are a great<br />

advantage who help push you towards<br />

your passion, creating a community and<br />

client base. However, you can start without<br />

any followers and be just as successful.<br />

You need to be determined, believe in your<br />

business and product, and lastly, work<br />

smart and effectively.”<br />

Using some of her own advice, she<br />

teamed up with her sister Zaynab and<br />

together they launched a fashion label<br />

MUNbymehrunnisa and cosmetics brand<br />

withUNS. The sisters invested their time<br />

and money into their plans and it paid<br />

off. She says: “Being an influencer means<br />

working 24/7. There are no days off. It’s<br />

about sharing your day-to-day life and<br />

passions. By doing so I built a community<br />

that want to be part of my world. I went<br />

from selling chocolate in school, using the<br />

money to invest and learn about make-up,<br />

to creating withUNS with my sister. It is<br />

the first business we created and have put


SOCIAL MEDIA<br />

our blood, sweat and tears into it. Initially<br />

we started with a large range of luxury,<br />

faux and half mink lashes, and now we<br />

have expanded to applicator tools such as<br />

our best-selling brush sets, sponges, puffs<br />

and applicator bundles. We also created<br />

our gorgeous lipstick range as affordable<br />

luxury so that they’re accessible, especially<br />

to the younger beauty fans that look up to<br />

us.”<br />

The brand has leveraged opportunities<br />

across social media platforms and<br />

sell products on Instagram, TikTok<br />

and Facebook, a dream come true for<br />

Mehrunissa who says: “Being my own boss<br />

has always been in my plan since I started<br />

thinking about careers at school but I still<br />

can’t believe it’s happened and that I’ve<br />

used social media to help me.”<br />

“BEING AN INFLUENCER<br />

MEANS WORKING 24/7.<br />

THERE ARE NO DAYS<br />

OFF. IT’S ABOUT SHARING<br />

YOUR DAY-TO-DAY LIFE<br />

AND PASSIONS”


BEAUTY SECRETS<br />

BEHIND-THE-SCENES:<br />

Lubna Rafiq<br />

We arranged for our leading<br />

ladies to get pampered like<br />

A’list celebrities. Though<br />

they’re all make-up experts,<br />

nothing beats being the<br />

centre of attention on a<br />

photoshoot, so we called<br />

in Celebrity Make-Up Artist<br />

Lubna Rafiq to give them<br />

supermodel makeovers.<br />

Lubna says: “As one<br />

of the original beauty<br />

entrepreneurs in the Asian<br />

bridal industry I love seeing the next generation come up.<br />

I’m a fan of all the influencers so it was a pleasure to spend<br />

time with them and share my own advice while getting them<br />

ready for their moment in the limelight.”<br />

The colourful concept for the shoot was directed by<br />

<strong>Asiana</strong>’s Editor Indiya Ahmed who was keen to complement<br />

the bold, brave, powerful side of our Boss Babes by dressing<br />

them in eye-catching colours that would make them standout<br />

from the crowd, just like they stand out on our social<br />

media feeds. Lubna translated this vision into two striking<br />

beauty looks.<br />

She opted for natural, glowing skin, defined eyes with<br />

a classic eyeliner flick and soft sumptuous lips for the first<br />

theme, inspired by the pastel palette of the outfits: “Often<br />

when brides wear pastels there’s an assumption that the eyes<br />

should be kept soft too, but actually you need the contrast<br />

to make your features pop. I made the eyes the focal point,<br />

using a classic look where black liner and metallic eyeshadow<br />

create a dramatic effect, accentuated by dark brows to frame<br />

the face.”<br />

The second look was a celebration theme, with colourful<br />

party looks that bring out the fun personality of each<br />

entrepreneur. Lubna enthused: “These were fun, fashionable<br />

looks that I created for each of our girls that captured the<br />

individual spark they all brought to the shoot. I loved how<br />

Jemelin fully embraced the South Asian spirit and fused it<br />

with her Latin heritage so I knew she could pull off bright<br />

colours. We went for gorgeous green statement eyes<br />

balanced with nude lips. For Sumaiyah she’s so enthusiastic<br />

about the latest beauty trends that I created a high-fashion<br />

eye for her, introducing an alluring blue into her lower lid<br />

and then sweeping it out to create a look that was regal and<br />

elegant yet also created a fearless fashion statement.”<br />

She added: “All our influencers have beautiful hair so we<br />

kept it out, loose, and flowing with soft waves. I felt so proud<br />

seeing them in front of the camera. It was quite emotional<br />

when they all came together as there was so much pride,<br />

power and passion in the room.” officiallubnarafiq<br />

BEHIND THE SCENES: WITH<br />

ASIANA EDITOR INDIYA AHMED<br />

All dressed up: Tehxeeb London<br />

Elegance and timeless chic are<br />

synonymous with Pakistani<br />

boutique Tehxeeb London so they<br />

were the perfect brand to dress<br />

our stars. We enlisted owner<br />

Amty Ahmad to curate the perfect<br />

ensembles for each influencer:<br />

“When Indiya told me she wanted<br />

to dress these elite entrepreneurs<br />

in colour I was delighted to be able<br />

to showcase the incredible vibrant<br />

fashion trends that are coming<br />

out of Pakistani and to have such<br />

incredible inspirational women<br />

wear them.” As a leading fashion<br />

entrepreneur, Amty brought her<br />

own wisdom and encouragement to<br />

the set and our entrepreneurs were<br />

eager to hear her own story of how<br />

she started her leading brand. She<br />

said: “It’s my passion for fashion<br />

and desire to make women feel<br />

amazing that inspired me to start<br />

Tehxeeb London, so having the<br />

opportunity to dress such incredible<br />

entrepreneurs that share my vision<br />

was a privilege. I chose elegant<br />

lenghas and modest trouser suits<br />

which are becoming increasingly<br />

popular with younger fashionistas.<br />

I hope it inspires readers to try new<br />

looks for their own special occasions<br />

and of course, I’m always here to<br />

help them find their dream outfit.”<br />

tehxeeblondon


SOCIAL MEDIA<br />

Treasure chest: Nargis Collections<br />

No outfit is complete without the jewels so<br />

we made our glitterati sparkle with beautiful<br />

jewellery from Nargis Collections. A major<br />

trend this season is head chains worn<br />

like Alice bands, creating a majestic feel<br />

without the weight of wearing a tiara. Nargis<br />

Collections’ range of delicate head chains<br />

featuring pearls and beads were a huge hit<br />

with our entrepreneurs as they are so easy to<br />

wear and can transform a look in an instant.<br />

Statement neckpieces brought glamour to<br />

the proceedings. Nargis Collections created<br />

coordinating sets with matching earrings that<br />

can be worn together or look just as striking<br />

worn alone. We styled their treasures both<br />

ways to show that you don’t need to follow<br />

the rules, ‘always do you’, a motto that all our<br />

shoot stars embody. For the finishing touches<br />

we styled our wonder women with sparkling<br />

over-sized crystal rings – the ultimate party<br />

accessory. nargis_collections


www.siyah.co.uk


THE BRIDE’S Guide<br />

Your need-to-know wedding industry news<br />

NEW OPENING: ZOYAZ LONDON<br />

There’s a brand new way to shop for Pakistani<br />

bridalwear in South London. Zoyaz London<br />

is bringing creative couture back to Tooting,<br />

which was once a thriving hub for South Asian<br />

shopping. In recent years the food scene in the<br />

area has exploded taking over from the shops,<br />

but now you can team your trip with good<br />

food and fabulous fashion. The fresh new<br />

brand is owned by friends Lubeena Yar and<br />

Tehmina Yakoob who spotted a gap, bringing<br />

contemporary Pakistani garments to the UK,<br />

making them accessible to UK shoppers. She<br />

says: “For a long time it felt like you’re buying<br />

the ‘best of the worst’ when you go shopping<br />

for Pakistani clothing in London. We had many<br />

friends who would go back every two years,<br />

bring home their haul of all the latest fashion<br />

trends but then wear them continuously until<br />

their next trip abroad. We want clients to be<br />

able to shop all year round and get the choice<br />

and quality they want without the travel.”<br />

Bring a touch of Hollywood<br />

glamour to your Big Day with<br />

your very own mobile beauty<br />

parlour. Inspired by the vanity<br />

vans A’list actresses get ready<br />

in on film location shoots, multiaward-winning<br />

make-up artist<br />

Shair Unisha Bashir decided<br />

to take her beauty business on<br />

the road, creating the UK’s first<br />

mobile Asian beauty studio.<br />

She says: “I’ve been an MUA for<br />

27 years and one thing I kept<br />

finding was that on the day it’s<br />

often hard to find a space for<br />

the bride to get ready in. It’s an<br />

MOBILE MUA!<br />

extra consideration that gets<br />

overlooked and there’s nothing<br />

worse than a bride having her<br />

make-up rushed in a room that<br />

has service providers making<br />

noise, or other people walking<br />

You’ll receive a warm welcome at Zoyaz<br />

London which has vibrant pink decor set<br />

over two floors. On the main floor you can<br />

shop for the latest ready-to-wear designs<br />

from Pakistan’s leading designers. Zoyaz are<br />

the official stockists for well-known brands<br />

such as Gul Ahmed and Saiqa Majeed. The<br />

basement is a dedicated bridal lounge where<br />

you can have your own bespoke bridal outfit<br />

made, Lubeena explains: “We invite you to a<br />

consultation where you can browse and try<br />

on our samples to help you find styles you<br />

like. All outfits can then be adapted to your<br />

choice of colour, fabric or changing lengths<br />

– having this level of personalised outfit that<br />

no one else will have is a rite of passage for<br />

every bride.”<br />

Whether you’re looking for a unique bridal<br />

outfit or you’re keen to stock up on Pakistani<br />

designerwear, add a visit to Zoyaz London to<br />

your list. zoyazlondon<br />

in and out. My beauty van is<br />

an answer to a lot of mother-ofthe-bride’s<br />

prayers. Everything<br />

is provided including hair and<br />

make-up, lighting and space. In<br />

fact, I often work with assistants<br />

so that the bride, her family and<br />

bridesmaids can all get ready<br />

together. The best part is you’ll<br />

get complete privacy and there’s<br />

no need to worry about tidying<br />

up. Just hop on board, get<br />

beautified and then get ready to<br />

step out for your moment in the<br />

limelight.<br />

themakeupboxofficial<br />

CHIC DREAMS<br />

Downtime dressing just stepped up a notch.<br />

Siyah Boudoir Wear is a new sleepwear brand that<br />

specialises in sexy, yet modest nightwear. Their<br />

chic and stylish collections are inspired by the fancy<br />

nightdresses, lingerie, and pyjama sets found in the<br />

fashionable boutiques of Dubai. Brides will love the<br />

feminine, flattering styles that offer a level of romance<br />

and elegance you can’t find on the high street.<br />

Remember you’re not just shopping for your Big<br />

Day, you also need an outfit for your Big Night! Head<br />

to Siyah Boudoir Wear’s website to browse luxury<br />

loungewear, elegant dresses with sheer capes, pretty<br />

lingerie with long-sleeved lace shrugs and silky soft<br />

pyjamas that will bring you sweet dreams.<br />

www.siyah.co.uk<br />

SETTING THE STANDARDS<br />

Purveyors of Pakistani tradition, Birmingham jewellers<br />

Jauhar Jewels are the hottest new heritage jewellery<br />

brand in the UK, filling a gap in the market that’s been<br />

crying out to be filled: Pakistani jewellery. History is at<br />

the heart of each piece which is handmade bespoke<br />

and personalised to the bride, ensuring you have a<br />

bridal jewellery set that doesn’t just dazzle on the day<br />

but will become a future family heirloom. Designer<br />

Sarw’at explains: “All the pieces are characterised<br />

by their historical influences, think back to the grand<br />

statement pieces worn during the Mughal empire<br />

in India, that side of the culture feeds into Pakistani<br />

bridal style and I wanted to be able to offer it to<br />

British brides who can’t make the journey to Pakistan<br />

to do their wedding shopping.”<br />

Jauhar’s intricate jewels are 24 gold plated and<br />

feature semi-precious stones, nothing is painted, they<br />

are all true treasures. Pop into the DZiner Studio on<br />

Ladypool Road to see the collections, Sarw’at adds:<br />

“I don’t sell any pieces until a bride has tried them<br />

on. Choosing wedding jewellery is an important part<br />

of becoming a bride, there’s no pressure to buy, just<br />

come and have a chat see the options and discover<br />

what appeals to you.” jauharjewels


THE BRIDE’S GUIDE<br />

ASIANA<br />

RECOMMENDS:<br />

THE WORLD’S MOST ETHICAL BAR<br />

Yes! You read that right. Better World<br />

Bars are revolutionalising the drinks<br />

industry one tipple at a time. Their<br />

motto is ‘profit over planet’ and when you<br />

book them to create your wedding bar<br />

not only will guests be drinking ethically<br />

sourced and made drinks, they’ll be<br />

donating to charity at the same time.<br />

Founder Randy Rampersad explains:<br />

“You’ve heard of The Queen Vic, well<br />

originally I set up The Green Vic, a<br />

pop-up pub aiming to be the most ethical<br />

pub in the UK. It was a huge success<br />

but it made me realise how important<br />

our service was, it was more than just a<br />

slogan. I’m passionate about the planet<br />

and want to do whatever I can to help<br />

the Earth and the people that live on<br />

it.” So how does ethical drinking work<br />

and what can you expect when you hire<br />

Better World Bars for your wedding?<br />

Randy explains: “All the drinks we serve<br />

are made ethically and mostly that<br />

means they are being created through<br />

social enterprises and even charities. But<br />

don’t worry we still have a huge amount<br />

of choice, our menu has over 400 drinks<br />

including all the usual wines, beers,<br />

bubbles and soft drinks; they’ve just been<br />

sourced and made differently.”<br />

The charity angle of the business<br />

is also impressive as Randy explains:<br />

“At every event we do, for every sale of<br />

a drink, money is donated directly to<br />

charity. We support a number of different<br />

charities. At the end of your wedding,<br />

we can tell you exactly how that money<br />

will help, it could for example, be an<br />

environmental charity and we can tell<br />

you how many trees can be grown, or if<br />

it’s a homeless charity we can say how<br />

many people we can help.”<br />

There are two types of bars available<br />

for hire, a classic wooden bar made from<br />

eco-sourced materials, or their new TV<br />

screen bar which is a wall of televisions<br />

where your own visuals can be projected<br />

such as old photos and videos. Randy<br />

adds: “<strong>Wedding</strong>s are fun occasions but<br />

they’re also a great opportunity for<br />

a large number of people to make a<br />

difference in the world. I hope the ethical<br />

approach to our business will change the<br />

way people plan their events and we’re<br />

looking forward to bringing our delicious<br />

drinks and party spirit while raising<br />

money for good causes all over the UK.”<br />

www.betterworld.love<br />

Perfect Puff Perfect Puff<br />

Shishalovers will appreciate the handy new service being offered by East London’s Dubai Nights<br />

Lounge. The brand behind the luxury shisha spot is now offering mobile shisha experiences<br />

bringing shisha lounge vibes to your wedding day. Find out more about Shisha Hire by Dubai<br />

Nights Lounge on page 198. And if you’ve not yet tried their shisha check out the incredible range<br />

of flavours they have online at their sister business yourlocalshishashop.com. All flavours are made<br />

at their factory in Spain shishatobaccofactory.com and they even create bespoke flavours so, this<br />

could be the perfect opportunity to get your own wedding blend made.<br />

TREND ALERT:<br />

360-Photobooths<br />

Photobooths have long been a wedding<br />

staple. They’re a great way to capture<br />

your guests in action enjoying the day. But<br />

with video fast taking over the popularity<br />

of images at events and in social media,<br />

360-degree photo/video experiences<br />

create a whole new way to remember the<br />

day. Gary Gill CEO of 360 Boothology<br />

explains: “We’ve all enjoyed going inside<br />

photobooths but how often do you look at<br />

the printout that you take home, that’s if you<br />

don’t lose it on the way. At 360 Boothology,<br />

we create 360-degree videos that can be<br />

easily uploaded to your social media, as an<br />

Instagram reel or straight to your TikTok.<br />

They bring your memories to life and are<br />

something guests can share and enjoy, while<br />

the couple receive a copy of everyone’s fun<br />

poses.”<br />

Like classic photobooths, the team will<br />

bring everything that’s required including a<br />

host of props to match your theme. Bookings<br />

for weddings typically last for four hours<br />

giving every guest a chance to have a go<br />

and all you need is some space for them to<br />

do a full 360 turn which gets recorded and<br />

saved. Videos can last up to 30 seconds and<br />

they’re a great way to bring groups together<br />

which always creates the most fun content.<br />

Gary adds: “360 videos are a creative way to<br />

engage guests. It’s a new concept that many<br />

of them wouldn’t have tried before making it<br />

a fun surprise. Backdrops can be personalised<br />

too so we can brand all videos to your<br />

wedding colour theme and branding.”<br />

360boothology


Hair & Makup: Lubna Rafiq Celebrity Agency + Senior Artists Aysha Qaiser & Kiren VIrdi • Cosmetics: Forever52 Makeup • Jewellery: Maala London • Location: Madhu’s Istanbul, Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Turkeyº<br />

BROWSE ALL YOUR FAVOURITE BRANDS ONLINE<br />

www.shop.asiana.tv


SHOP SAVVY AT SHOP ASIANA<br />

Stay one step ahead of the<br />

season’s biggest fashion and<br />

Your one-stop destination for Asian fashion<br />

bridal trends at Shop <strong>Asiana</strong>,<br />

the UK’s first multi-brand<br />

online shopping experience,<br />

made for fashionistas. Whether you’re a<br />

bride-to-be curating her dream trousseau,<br />

or a fashion-conscious guest hunting for<br />

the perfect look, taking your style search<br />

online will take the stress out of shopping<br />

– especially when you can browse the<br />

latest collections from the best South Asian<br />

Shop for the latest looks<br />

fashion designers and retailers in one place.<br />

Look no further for the season’s trending looks. The<br />

At Shop <strong>Asiana</strong> you’ll find occasionwear,<br />

Shop <strong>Asiana</strong> homepage has a continuous feed of<br />

bridalwear, groomswear, jewellery<br />

fashion, where you’ll be able to view the latest designs<br />

and accessories that you can purchase<br />

as they become available. You’ll find the biggest names<br />

instantly; there’s no time wasted travelling<br />

in Asian fashion on the site including Seasons, Mona<br />

to busy shopping centres, no waiting<br />

Vora, Sache, Kyles Collection and many more. Simply<br />

months for a made-to-measure piece to<br />

choose your design, pick your size and pay. There’s<br />

arrive; those days are over.<br />

also the option to message designers and brands if you<br />

have a question you’d like to ask before you order.<br />

Exclusive discounts<br />

Keep an eye on Shop <strong>Asiana</strong> for special offers from<br />

your favourite brands and designers. You won’t find<br />

these discounts available elsewhere but you will find<br />

you save money. Visit each brand’s pages and see what<br />

discounts are available. These offers change regularly<br />

and they’re only available for a limited time period, so<br />

get ready for a haul.


SHOPPING<br />

Choice cuts<br />

Unlike shopping in a store where you can’t always find the size<br />

and colour you’re looking for, all sizes and colour options are<br />

listed for each garment on the site. You’ll be able to compare<br />

outfits with each other and check measurements before<br />

you buy. And with so many styles to choose from, there’s<br />

something for everyone – sarees, bridal gowns, kidswear,<br />

menswear and even nightwear. Every outfit on Shop <strong>Asiana</strong><br />

is professionally shot with clear, stylish photography so you<br />

can see all the outfit details like embellishments, embroidery,<br />

beading, and fabric textures to help you decide.<br />

“THE SHOP ASIANA HOMEPAGE HAS A CONTINUOUS<br />

FEED OF FASHION, WHERE YOU’LL BE ABLE TO VIEW<br />

THE LATEST DESIGNS AS THEY BECOME AVAILABLE.”<br />

Great ideas for grooms<br />

Shop <strong>Asiana</strong> is proving to be a lifesaver for<br />

grooms and their groomsmen particularly<br />

those who don’t enjoy the shopping element<br />

of wedding planning but want to make an<br />

effort to make their partner proud. You won’t<br />

find a wider selection of options than those<br />

at Sache. Browse smart sherwanis, ethnicinfused<br />

kurtas and churidars, and majestic<br />

jodhpur and jacket sets.<br />

Perfect partywear<br />

As well as the Big Day, bridal outfits are<br />

needed for the many functions and parties<br />

that accompany weddings, and designer<br />

Puneet Bhandal has all your fashion needs<br />

covered. From Bollywood star-inspired<br />

sparkling dresses to delicately embellished<br />

anarkalis, and caped gowns. Puneet is<br />

continually setting bridal trends, yet her<br />

pieces maintain a timeless elegance. Discover<br />

them at Shop <strong>Asiana</strong>.<br />

Shop <strong>Asiana</strong> is revolutionalising the bridal<br />

shopping experience in the UK, so instead of<br />

spending a whole weekend trekking around<br />

the shops, get your next haul ordered online<br />

and delivered directly to your door.<br />

Beautiful bridalwear<br />

In the bridalwear section of Shop <strong>Asiana</strong>, you’ll find exquisite bridal lenghas by designers<br />

like the highly sought-after Sonas Haute Couture. If you’re not able to travel to her bridal<br />

showroom in Wembley, the next best thing is to buy her pieces online at Shop <strong>Asiana</strong>.<br />

There’s a price point for everyone starting with her simple yet formal silk lenghas that<br />

begin at £1250, up to her more lavishly embellished couture that starts at £4000. Her<br />

collection features contemporary palettes like pastels and traditional pairings like red and<br />

gold. There are shapes and cuts for all, from long sleeves and floaty skirts for modesty to<br />

cropped figure-hugging bodices for brides who want to command attention.<br />

www.shop.asiana.tv


did I become a<br />

Fashion Designer?<br />

It came to me as<br />

a surprise! I was<br />

“How<br />

supposed to be an<br />

Engineer, but I suppose I became an ‘Engineer<br />

of Fashion.” Haneet’s passion and enthusiasm<br />

for designing womenswear are infectious.<br />

A part of the industry for over 20 years, he<br />

studied fashion in 1999 and was encouraged<br />

to do so by his mum. Ravinder Kaur ran her<br />

own small tailoring business and fashion ran<br />

through Haneet’s veins but he took those<br />

creative genes to a new level, being awarded<br />

Pride of Rajasthan in 2015 and being named<br />

Leading<br />

Designer of Rajasthan<br />

Profile:<br />

2018.<br />

GRACE STUDIO<br />

BY HANEET SINGH<br />

With his flamboyant Punjabi heritage and Rajasthani base, awardwinning<br />

Indian Couturier and Fashion Designer Haneet Singh<br />

has developed a reputation in India for creating new concepts in<br />

fusion attire and now he has showcased his style in London...<br />

GOING GLOBAL<br />

A reputable designer worldwide Haneet has<br />

graced the catwalks of Dubai Fashion Week<br />

and Colombo Fashion Week and in 2022<br />

made his European debut, unveiling his first<br />

collection at London Fashion Week. Entitled<br />

Stannic Luxe, it captured the spirit and<br />

craftsmanship of Jaipur with metallic dresses<br />

made from shimmering organza, foils and<br />

tissues in a pleasing palette of purples, lilacs<br />

and rose golds. Since then, Haneet’s phone<br />

hasn’t stopped ringing and his WhatsApps<br />

haven’t stopped pinging as British brides<br />

eagerly entrust him to make their wedding<br />

trousseau.<br />

Haneet explains: “I mainly design high<br />

fashion fusion bridal wear and specialise<br />

in sangeet wear which is some of the most<br />

exciting partywear you’ll come across. New<br />

brides and brides-to-be have endless social<br />

functions and I love designing pieces for these<br />

occasions. I also have a line of sustainable pretwear,<br />

but whatever type of garment you choose<br />

you’ll get my signature 3D embroidery details.”


FASHION<br />

MAKING MAGIC<br />

Every bride has high expectations from her<br />

designer and for Haneet, meeting and surpassing<br />

them is his aim. He says: “I try to get on the same<br />

wavelength as brides, then show them the best<br />

options for her. Most modern brides have done<br />

their homework and have an image in their<br />

minds, but I try to give options which suit their<br />

personality and size. I like to follow my instincts<br />

and when we combine her ideas with my<br />

creative aspects together we create magic!”<br />

Haneet’s custom-made lenghas and dresses are<br />

identifiable through the intricate handiwork that<br />

goes into every piece and alongside the detailing<br />

you can expect appealing fusionwear as Haneet<br />

explains: “I like to work with the flattering fits of<br />

Western silhouettes and then embellish them<br />

with intricate Indian hand details, the goal is to<br />

make each piece as grand as possible.” The regal<br />

quality of his work is inspired by his Jaipur roots,<br />

he grew up there and feels a strong connection<br />

to Rajasthan and the royalty that have lived here;<br />

but his larger-than-life personality is down to his<br />

Punjabi heart. I try to mix Indian Intricate Hand<br />

work techniques into western silhouettes and<br />

make them as grand as possible!<br />

Haneet currently brings out two major<br />

collections a year and showcases his new<br />

designs on major catwalks around the<br />

world. His ready-to-wear pret collection is<br />

updated regularly and is affordable without<br />

compromising on the quality his pieces are<br />

known for. You’ll find his menswear collection<br />

sold at Pernia’s Pop Up Shop and his exclusive<br />

Rajasthan Boutique - Grace Studio.<br />

UK EXPANSION<br />

To date, fans have made the journey to his flagship<br />

store, Haneet Singh’s Grace Studio, in Jaipur<br />

where alongside his revered bridalwear you’ll also<br />

find a range of menswear and kidswear, all in his<br />

signature style. The popularity of the store led to<br />

a second branch opening in the city but now he’s<br />

taking his designs and making them available<br />

outside of India by expanding into the UK.<br />

Haneet Singh’s bridal and partywear will shortly<br />

be available to the UK market. This means you<br />

won’t need to wait the 45-60 days it currently takes<br />

to order via his website and have them delivered to<br />

the UK, you can view his range in person and try<br />

them on.<br />

As his first UK venture takes flight, he continues<br />

to expand his brand across India, it’s no surprise<br />

there’s so much demand for his designs. Haneet has<br />

amassed a celebrity following with the who’s who<br />

of Bollywood and television, names like Mugdha<br />

Godse, Aarti Chhabria, Yuvika Chaudry, Manasvi<br />

Mamgai and Karishma Tanna Machek Chahal are<br />

all fans.<br />

He enthuses: “I’ve been called one of the most<br />

powerful people in Rajasthan but that power is<br />

simply my passion; fashion is in my soul; it drives<br />

me to be a designer who creates unique, stylish<br />

and contemporary outfits that women love to wear.<br />

When they tell me how happy they are with what<br />

I’ve created for them, that’s when I know I’ve<br />

succeeded at what I was born to do.”<br />

www.haneetsingh.com


Find all the expert services for your Big Day,<br />

recommended by <strong>Asiana</strong> <strong>Wedding</strong> Magazine<br />

> Beauty / Hair / Mehndi<br />

> Catering / Cakes / Drinks<br />

> DJs / Entertainment<br />

> Decor / Mandaps / Themes<br />

> Fashion / Jewellery<br />

> Venues / Marquees<br />

> Honeymoon Destinations<br />

> <strong>Wedding</strong>s Abroad<br />

> Photography & Video<br />

www.<strong>Asiana</strong><strong>Wedding</strong>Directory.co.uk


PLANNING<br />

We’ve created the<br />

ultimate wedding<br />

hack and now we’re<br />

inviting you to join<br />

the thousands of<br />

couples that have discovered the secret to<br />

planning their Big Day without the fuss.<br />

Call it your online Little Black Book of<br />

wedding experts; the <strong>Asiana</strong> <strong>Wedding</strong><br />

Directory is our hand-picked, specially<br />

curated selection of the best wedding<br />

service providers in the business. With<br />

over 15 years experience publishing the<br />

UK’s most-respected Asian wedding<br />

magazine, we have the inside knowledge<br />

on the Who’s Who in the industry. To<br />

get access, all you need to do is to head<br />

over to the <strong>Asiana</strong> <strong>Wedding</strong> Directory<br />

website.<br />

Meet the experts<br />

Wondering where’s the best place to<br />

start when you first begin planning your<br />

wedding? It’s not Google – the last thing<br />

you want is to fall into a digital hole of<br />

random articles, if you do, you may give<br />

up the search before you’ve made any<br />

progress.<br />

The UK is home to thousands of Asian<br />

wedding suppliers but only some of them<br />

get the <strong>Asiana</strong> seal of approval and these<br />

are the brands and businesses that<br />

feature in our Directory. So what makes<br />

them different? They all fit our criteria<br />

for what makes the ultimate wedding<br />

day: giving the best customer experience,<br />

offering the widest choice of options, and<br />

delivering the highest level of service.<br />

Enjoy the ease<br />

So how does it work? Start with your<br />

device of choice, whether that’s your<br />

mobile, tablet, laptop, or desktop<br />

computer, and head over to www.<br />

<strong>Asiana</strong><strong>Wedding</strong>Directory.co.uk. Type<br />

in your postcode to receive a list of<br />

recommended local suppliers. These<br />

suppliers are organised into easy<br />

categories to help you find exactly<br />

what you need. Each listing features<br />

information about the company along<br />

with a link to their phone number and<br />

website, which means you can find who<br />

and what you’re looking for in seconds. If<br />

you’re not after a local company then you<br />

can search for providers nationwide.<br />

MAKE IT HAPPEN!<br />

PLAN YOUR PERFECT WEDDING FROM THE COMFORT OF<br />

YOUR HOME USING THE ASIANA WEDDING DIRECTORY<br />

www.<strong>Asiana</strong><strong>Wedding</strong>Directory.co.uk<br />

Save time<br />

The <strong>Asiana</strong> <strong>Wedding</strong> Directory is quick<br />

to use, making wedding planning a less<br />

daunting experience and because it cuts<br />

out the time it takes to do the research,<br />

you’ll have more time to yourself to relax<br />

and do the other things you love.<br />

Discover and decide<br />

So what type of service providers and<br />

experts will you find in the Directory?<br />

In short, every element of your wedding<br />

day including outfits, MUAs, venues,<br />

catering, photography, videography,<br />

décor companies, and even recommended<br />

beauty treatments. Once you’ve had a<br />

browse, short-list the providers you’d like<br />

to contact, give them a call, and arrange<br />

a meeting to get your dream wedding<br />

underway.<br />

Happy planning!


PRESENT...<br />

Sunday 19th February 2023<br />

Exhibition: 10am - 7pm<br />

THE SAVOY LONDON<br />

The Strand, London WC2R 0EZ<br />

Exhibition Stand EnquiriES: info@aSiana.tv<br />

tickEtS & info: www.aSianabridalShow.co.uk


ASIANA BRIDAL SHOW LONDON<br />

LONDON 2022<br />

IN ASSOCIATION WITH<br />

CATWALK MAKEUP


CATWALK MAKEUP<br />

ASIANA BRIDAL SHOW LONDON<br />

CATWALK<br />

REPORT<br />

Photography: Pardesi Photo<br />

REGAL ROMANCE<br />

ARAEYA RAI<br />

Chic silhouettes for modern princesses<br />

Jewellery: Tanaya Couture • Crowns: Vintage Kace • Singer: Zain Worldwide<br />

Versatile and elegant, Leicester couture house Araeya Rai’s beautiful bridal collection delivered a<br />

collection that appealed to all. They proved that modern brides can find a look that matches their<br />

personality while oozing opulence. First to emerge on the catwalk was an array of soft feminine<br />

cuts and colours featuring sheer statement sleeves and a classic white net sari encrusted with<br />

pearls. As the spectrum evolved, pastel hues of pink, yellow and aqua were introduced before<br />

the dramatic entrance of a show-stopping black and red lengha. With its red rose and gold<br />

embellishing it echoed the spirit of Latin vibes: think flamenco dancer meets Bollywood queen.<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Ruffled sleeves<br />

• Pearl details<br />

• Sequin<br />

embellishing<br />

• Graphic shapes<br />

• Bold & bright<br />

• Latin flair


CATWALK REPORT<br />

ASIANA BRIDAL SHOW LONDON<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Beaded flowers<br />

• Cut sleeves<br />

• Soft pinks<br />

• Sheer fabrics<br />

• Vintage patterns<br />

• Retro designs<br />

PRINCESS<br />

PERFECT<br />

DIYA’S THE BRIDAL SHOP<br />

Fairytale fashion for romantics<br />

Jewellery: Hr Jewellers<br />

Diya’s mesmerised with an enchanting bridal collection<br />

comprising a soft palette teamed with dainty<br />

embellishing. Each design as resplendent as the next,<br />

the audience was treated to shimmering dresses<br />

that captured the essence of what Diya’s is all about:<br />

outfits that make you feel like a princess. Modest, yet<br />

magnificent, bridalwear cuts consisted of long skirts and<br />

full-length sleeves, worn with long tops and dupattas. For<br />

brides who prefer softer shades, there were appealing<br />

mint green, pink and lemon ensembles. Crowd pleasers<br />

included a twinkling skirt embedded with delicate rose<br />

embroidery and a pink and gold lengha inspired by<br />

Spring’s cherry blossom season.


CREATIVE<br />

CHARM<br />

FRONTIER RAAS<br />

Opulent outfits with imagination<br />

Jewellery: Deeya Jewellery<br />

Showcasing the best in contemporary bridalwear, Indian<br />

brand Frontier Raas treated the audience to a taste of<br />

what they can expect from their ever-evolving bridal<br />

collections which are a firm mixture on the <strong>Asiana</strong><br />

catwalks. Each outfit showed the beauty and breadth of<br />

what they sell. With outfits for every wedding occasion,<br />

there was a joyful yellow lengha, ideal for mendhi parties,<br />

long, vintage beaded dresses<br />

which would be perfect for<br />

a registry and ornate velvets<br />

adorned with traditional<br />

goldwork. Other key pieces<br />

included soft satin pink bellbottom<br />

trousers bringing<br />

a touch of retro chic to the<br />

proceedings.<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Colourful couture<br />

• Long waistcoats<br />

• Bellbottom trousers<br />

• Beaded fringes<br />

• Iridescent embellishing<br />

• Zardosi work


CATWALK REPORT<br />

ASIANA BRIDAL SHOW LONDON<br />

GORGEOUS GLAMOUR<br />

FRONTIER RAAS<br />

Dramatic designs for charismatic couples<br />

Jewellery: Maala London<br />

Timeless traditions teamed with modern flavours summed up the second collection from Frontier<br />

Raas. Always one step ahead of the trends the Indian brand showcased elegant designs that<br />

captured historical techniques with fresh colour palettes. Unique pieces included a patchwork<br />

lengha top in radiant rainbow colours, perfect for a mendhi and a grand lengha in a combination<br />

of blues, offset by red and gold detailing. Bridal fabrics were decadent with fine brocades and<br />

chiffons while the groomswear was minimalist yet stylish. Offering choice and flexibility this was a<br />

range that captured the interest of young couples eager to feel glamorous yet grand.<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Opulent<br />

embroidery<br />

• Architectural motifs<br />

• Sequin fringing<br />

• Rainbow colours<br />

• Delicate straps<br />

• Beaded sherwanis


STAR QUALITY<br />

MONGA’S<br />

Standout style for grand grooms<br />

Jewellery: Deeya Jewellery<br />

Grooms were put under the spotlight in the first collection from Monga’s, showcasing the breadth<br />

of exquisite design that is available to the modern maharaja. Long sherwanis were the key trend<br />

but these weren’t just jackets but styled as complete outfits with layering and shawls and<br />

accessories with jewellery. There was a range of colours and textures to suit different<br />

personalities from a midnight blue heavily embellished sherwani covered in intricate flowers<br />

perfect for an evening reception to subtler cream suits that were smart and sophisticated<br />

and ideal for a daytime event, Monga’s showed it’s not just brides that need several<br />

outfits, grooms are worthy of them too.<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Statement belts<br />

• Layered sherwanis<br />

• Cropped bodices<br />

• Classic colours<br />

• Rich velvets<br />

• Gold zardosi<br />

• Embroidered<br />

leaves


CATWALK REPORT<br />

ASIANA BRIDAL SHOW LONDON<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Statement collars<br />

• Freshwater pearls<br />

• Feathered cuffs<br />

• Shaped bodices<br />

• Beaded bolero<br />

HIGH<br />

CLASS<br />

MONGA’S<br />

Luxe partywear for every occasion<br />

Jewellery: Roshans Jewellery • Balloons: Balloons By Nic<br />

Singer: Ipsitaa Official<br />

High-glamour and fun fashion are signature features of<br />

Monga’s fusion haute-couture and for their 2022 range, the<br />

brand continued to push the boundaries of bridalwear with<br />

dresses that took the audience’s breath away. Captivating<br />

the crowds with shimmering dresses the use of silk and<br />

stonework setthe tone for the season with its ‘stand out<br />

from the crowd’, red carpet essence. The show-stopper<br />

dress was a flared, subtle cream-coloured silk creation,<br />

embellished with extraordinary bead and pearl work. Fusion<br />

influences were seen in the use of French lace teamed<br />

with Indian silk fabrics with touches of velvet and satins<br />

culminating in a collection that was fresh and fabulous.


SOVEREIGN<br />

STYLE<br />

SACHE BY ASIF MALIK<br />

Aristocratic attire fit for royalty<br />

Jewellery: Maala London • Dhol Players: Beat Evolution<br />

With every outfit telling its a story about the heritageof<br />

Pakistani fashion, this was a collection that showed there’s<br />

more to choosing your bridal wedding wear than simply a<br />

design you design: it’s something that will become part of<br />

your own history and legacy and that of your partners. In<br />

Asif’s first showcase he demonstrated his understanding<br />

of designing for couples creating pieces that<br />

complimented each other including a red sherwani offset<br />

by the red shawl worn with<br />

a simple white sherwani.<br />

Layered shararas are a<br />

signature style at Sache and<br />

for his 2022 range, Asif used<br />

it as an opportunity to shake<br />

up colour palettes teaming<br />

conventional red with fresh,<br />

bold orange.<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Tassel fringes<br />

• Shaped bodices<br />

• Elegant<br />

childrenswear<br />

• Ornate embellishments<br />

• Antique handiwork<br />

• Fitted churidars


CATWALK REPORT<br />

ASIANA BRIDAL SHOW LONDON<br />

MAJESTIC LUXE<br />

SACHE BY ASIF MALIK<br />

Grandiose garments with timeless appeal<br />

Jewellery: Tanaya Couture • Floral: Varmala • Mirrors: Vintage Kace<br />

Taking its lead from Mughal empresses’ of yesterdays, Asif Malik showed us why he’s one of the most<br />

influential designers in the UK with a collection that added elegance, and raised the catwalk to majestic<br />

heights. Ornately embellished outfits that celebrated soft shades of pastel pink and yellow gold with<br />

silver and white options, pieces were accented with shimmering details. Resplendent long dresses<br />

and two-piece ensembles gracedthe stage with the wearable, yet versatile Pakistani-themed<br />

fashion that Sache is so revered for. Quality is a key feature of their timeless collections and the<br />

brand showcased its commitment to creating exquisite designs without compromise.<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Crystal work<br />

• Long dresses<br />

• Layered sharahas<br />

• Modest cuts<br />

• Full surface<br />

designs<br />

• Shisha mirrors


ROYAL ELEGANCE<br />

SAI FASHIONS<br />

Delicate designs rich in tradition<br />

Jewellery: Hr Jewels • Violinist: My Musical Child<br />

Romance and decadence emerged at theheart of Sai Fashions’ breathtaking wedding collection<br />

presenting beautiful attire for the bride and groom. From exquisite floor-length dresses,<br />

embellished with rich gold antique embroidery paired alongside smart sherwanis styled with<br />

traditional shawls, couples were treated to a satisfying flow of outfit inspiration. The focus of<br />

the season was on shape – modest, feminine cuts with full sleeves area signature style of Sai<br />

Fashions. Close-up, each piece was delicately adorned with fine embroidery, sequins, beads and<br />

threadwork ensuring each outfit embodied a heritage theme that’s appealing to traditional and<br />

contemporary brides.<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Pretty pastels<br />

• Diamonté detailing<br />

• Sherwani shawls<br />

• Modest Cuts<br />

• Layering<br />

• Antique<br />

embroidery


CATWALK REPORT<br />

ASIANA BRIDAL SHOW LONDON<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Gathered ruffles<br />

• Feather trims<br />

• Sequin stripes<br />

• 3D embroidery<br />

• Appliqué<br />

• Creative cape<br />

CELEBRITY<br />

CHIC<br />

SEASONS DESIGNER WEAR<br />

A’list elegance for modern brides<br />

Jewellery: Maala London<br />

When it comes to wow factor weddingwear Seasons<br />

know how to turn heads. Their high-fashion bridalwear<br />

collection channelled red carpet glamour; each garment<br />

a showstopper. Experimental yet elegant the imaginative<br />

trousseau featured dazzling designs comprising evening<br />

dresses embellished with ostrich feathers, sequin<br />

encrusted lenghas and a draw-dropping colourful skirt<br />

scattered with 3D embroidery. Elsewhere gathered pleats<br />

gave impact and challenged the conventions of classic<br />

registry gowns. Charismatic and creative, this was a<br />

collection for brides that want to make a statement, feel<br />

like a goddess and break the internet with their trending<br />

celebrity style.


CATWALK REPORT<br />

ASIANA BRIDAL SHOW LONDON<br />

TRENDS<br />

• Block colours<br />

• Rouge palette<br />

• Velvet sherwani<br />

• Peacock motifs<br />

• Antique<br />

threadwork<br />

• Light embellishing<br />

TIMELESS<br />

TRADITIONS<br />

SOHO WEDDING CENTRAL<br />

Heritage meets haute couture<br />

Jewellery: Roshans Jewellery<br />

Demonstrating how to nail a match made in heaven, Soho<br />

<strong>Wedding</strong> Central showed us their skill for styling couples<br />

in outfits that complimented each other with ease and<br />

elegance. Classic colours of red and black are seen in<br />

Western fashion more than Asian bridal, but Soho created<br />

the pairing perfect by juxtaposing simple block<br />

colours with minimal embellishments resulting<br />

in outfits that were functional and fabulous.<br />

Each garment captured heritage techniques<br />

like antique embroidery and threadwork<br />

with stand-out pieces including a regal<br />

lengha designed for a modern maharani,<br />

worn by a model who performed a<br />

dance fit for a palace.


CATWALK REPORT<br />

BEHIND-THE-SCENES<br />

Photograph: Aimee Mcghee<br />

Catwalk<br />

SECRETS<br />

Behind-the-scenes of the biggest<br />

Asian bridal fashion show in the UK<br />

DREAM TEAM<br />

CREATIVE DIRECTOR<br />

Indiya Ahmed<br />

Hair And Makeup: Lubna Rafiq Academy<br />

AV: Kudos AV<br />

Decor: 1SW Events<br />

Choreography: Strut London<br />

Host: Anushka Arora<br />

Fashion Team: Zaf Shabir, Ibraheem Khan,<br />

Vinita Kalia, Hannah Irshad<br />

Media Partners: Sony TV<br />

Photographer: Pardesi Photo<br />

Catwalk report: Momtaz Begum-Hossain<br />

T<br />

his year the <strong>Asiana</strong> Bridal Show<br />

celebrated 21 years as the leading<br />

wedding and bridal event for UK<br />

brides. Hundreds of the nation’s<br />

wedding experts have joined us at<br />

the exhibition over the past two decades while<br />

thousands of brides have found the help and<br />

inspiration they needed to organise the wedding<br />

of their dreams.<br />

The heart of the show is the <strong>Asiana</strong> Bridal<br />

Catwalk and though we’ve been developing<br />

these fashionable extravaganzas for over two<br />

decades the excitement, anticipation and hard<br />

work never tires; all thanks to the team behindthe<br />

-scenes that makes it happen.<br />

Creative Director Indiya Ahmed curates<br />

the entire show which this year saw 8 leading<br />

wedding wear designers and brands take to the<br />

stage to reveal their new season looks: “The<br />

atmosphere backstage at every <strong>Asiana</strong> fashion<br />

show is filled with excitement, buzz and a touch<br />

of stress. A team of over 100 people including<br />

the AV team, MUAs, hair stylists, wardrobe<br />

dressers, choreographer and production team<br />

are required for every show which takes weeks<br />

of planning. This year it was great to have all<br />

of the UK’s most popular brands on the ramp,<br />

showcasing their talent to the world.<br />

To the untrained eye, stepping backstage<br />

may look like creative chaos with rows of shoes,<br />

jewellery boxes filled with exquisite bridal sets<br />

and endless accessories everywhere, but for the<br />

team of dressers, this is part of the joy.<br />

Each dresser is assigned a model and is<br />

responsible for ensuring they step out in<br />

style with accessories and jewellery in place:<br />

“Working backstage at a fashion show is<br />

a dream for all of our dressers; it’s a rare<br />

opportunity to get hands-on experience working<br />

with major designers and the most glamorous<br />

models the industry. But it’s also hard work.<br />

We rehearse for a week and on the day the<br />

call time is 7am and then when the thousands<br />

of guests go home we’re still working! But I<br />

wouldn’t have it any other way. I have the<br />

best job in the world, helping brides find their<br />

dream outfit and it’s a privilege to play such a<br />

fashionable part in their Big Day!”


CATWALK REPORT<br />

Show-Stopping<br />

BEAUTY<br />

Celebrity Make Up Artist LUBNA RAFIQ and her<br />

team worked their magic backstage to ensure all<br />

our models wowed the crowds and cameras...<br />

Aimee Mcghee insta - @shotsbyaimee_<br />

Making magic happen<br />

Taking charge of the hair and make-up<br />

looks for a catwalk show is no easy feat.<br />

Lubna and her team beautified over 30<br />

models and it was go, go, go from the<br />

moment they arrived backstage. Lubna<br />

explains: “One of the reasons I became an<br />

MUA is because I love the intimate 1-2-1<br />

experience I have with my brides where we<br />

spend a few hours transforming her into a<br />

work of art. Working in the fashion side of<br />

my role is equally as satisfying but much<br />

more fast-paced. Despite the team working<br />

under speed and pressure, we’re all aware<br />

that every stroke has to be perfect. The<br />

camera never lies. As soon as the models<br />

step out onto the ramp there is constant<br />

snapping and every single one of those<br />

photos has to capture perfection.”<br />

Setting the trends<br />

The planning starts a few weeks before the<br />

show when Lubna receives a brief from<br />

Indiya, inspired by the collections that<br />

will appear on the runway. Lubna creates<br />

the theme and make-up looks and then<br />

teaches them to her team who assist on the<br />

day, taking on several models each. “All<br />

of my team members have trained with<br />

me so they have the highest standards<br />

of hair and make-up. Every model has to<br />

look uniform so I show them mood boards,<br />

organise them to practice the looks and<br />

then on the day itself no model steps out<br />

without them getting my approval.”<br />

Dramatic, attention-grabbing eyes and<br />

soft lips with pulled back hair was the look<br />

Lubna created for our catwalk models;<br />

one that’s striking yet elegant: “Catwalk<br />

models need to make an impact from a<br />

distance and close up and the eyes never<br />

lie, by having them as the focal point<br />

it made the overall effect powerful and<br />

beautiful. I also wanted to show brides that<br />

simplicity looks timeless. Soft lips are more<br />

mesmerising than heavy rouge palettes<br />

and I was thrilled with the response - so<br />

many brides came up to me afterwards,<br />

impressed by what they saw and wanting<br />

to book me for their wedding day. It was an<br />

honour to be part of this historic event!”<br />

www.lubnarafiq.com<br />

“THE EYES NEVER LIE, BY HAVING THEM AS<br />

THE FOCAL POINT IT MADE THE OVERALL<br />

EFFECT POWERFUL AND BEAUTIFUL”


PRESENT...<br />

Sunday 19th February 2023<br />

Exhibition: 10am - 7pm<br />

THE SAVOY LONDON<br />

The Strand, London WC2R 0EZ<br />

Exhibition Stand EnquiriES: info@aSiana.tv<br />

tickEtS & info: www.aSianabridalShow.co.uk


WEDDINGExpert<br />

PLANNING<br />

Sanjay Anand MBE offers essential advice on organising your Big Day<br />

Money is at the centre of<br />

every couple’s mind when<br />

they start planning their<br />

wedding. Though some<br />

have the luxury of having<br />

their celebrations paid for by family,<br />

increasingly couples are keen to pay for<br />

their Big Day, or at least foot the bill for<br />

some of it. Either way, you still need to<br />

set yourself a budget. Once you’ve decided<br />

how much you’re willing to spend you<br />

can get creative and ensure your wedding<br />

is exactly as you want it to be. Though<br />

we are living in uncertain times with<br />

concerns about rising energy bills and<br />

wondering if the pandemic will return,<br />

we can’t let these obstacles get in the<br />

way. You will only marry once, so don’t<br />

scrimp…the secret is in setting yourself a<br />

realistic budget. Here’s what you need to<br />

consider.<br />

Guests<br />

The average Asian wedding starts at around<br />

£25,000 and typically can cost around<br />

£60,000. The biggest percentage of that<br />

will go to the venue and catering and both<br />

of these decisions will be led by how many<br />

guests you invite – a wedding for 1000 guests<br />

versus a celebration for 100 are very different<br />

affairs. Understanding the numbers isn’t<br />

something a couple can do alone. Allow your<br />

family to get involved as they will be able to<br />

advise on any relatives and important guests<br />

you may not immediately think of. Then<br />

decide who you can shave off the list. Gone<br />

are the days of inviting the entire community,<br />

don’t be afraid to go more intimate by opting<br />

for a smaller gathering.<br />

Events<br />

Traditionally couples would celebrate their<br />

nuptials over several days to include pre<br />

and post-wedding events. However, this<br />

adds up. You will save money by joining<br />

events or spacing them out – if having your<br />

registry and your main reception six months<br />

apart suits your budget better then that is<br />

IN<br />

FOCUS<br />

PLANNING<br />

YOUR BUDGET<br />

Don’t let the cost of living crisis dampen your dream day<br />

fine – remember it’s your wedding your way.<br />

<strong>Wedding</strong>s in low season and mid-week are<br />

cheaper so be flexible with your dates.<br />

Outfits<br />

Looking through the pages of <strong>Asiana</strong><br />

<strong>Wedding</strong> Magazine you’ll no doubt find lots<br />

of inspiration for your wedding trousseau<br />

but you don’t only need to buy new. Some<br />

of your outfits will of course be made-tomeasure,<br />

that’s part of the joy of planning<br />

your wedding, but nothing tops the joy<br />

of wearing an heirloom outfit. I’ve seen<br />

countless brides beam with pride wearing the<br />

bridal outfit or jewellery their mother wore.<br />

It’s also become much easier to shop for<br />

weddingwear second-hand which could save<br />

you a few thousand pounds.<br />

Factoring In Forgotten Costs<br />

There are some costs couples forget about, don’t let that be you!<br />

Plan to pay for these essentials in your budget:<br />

Ceremonial costs – Aside from paying for your registry you may need to pay priests<br />

and any other staff so plan what they’ll cost.<br />

Personal shopping – Although you may not declare these to each other you’ll have<br />

personal costs like buying gifts, stocking up on luxury lingerie or perfumes and this<br />

will impact on your own expenses.<br />

Drinks – While a free bar may be a generous gesture it could end up breaking the<br />

bank – set bar tab limits or issue drinks tokens.<br />

Finally, never be afraid to negotiate costs. Service providers have set packages but<br />

they can be flexible so build a good rapport with your wedding planner, be open to<br />

their cost-cutting ideas and make room for changes. And of course, if you go under<br />

budget you’ll have more to spend on your honeymoon!<br />

SANJAY ANAND MBE IS CHAIRMAN OF MADHU’S.<br />

IF YOU HAVE A TOPIC TO SUGGEST EMAIL SANJAY@ASIANA.TV


BRIDAL Notebook<br />

Your tick box guide to planning made per fect<br />

Edited by Momtaz Begum-Hossain<br />

CAKES<br />

Image: George Sistonen<br />

FLOWERS<br />

Three floral trends we’re loving…<br />

WHAT’S YOUR FLAVOUR?<br />

Choosing a grand design for your<br />

wedding cake is only half the decision.<br />

Even though cake cutting is a ritual<br />

for photographs, your guests will be<br />

looking forward to eating it too, so<br />

delight their senses with aromas and<br />

tastes that leave them wanting more.<br />

The wedding experts at Hitched.<br />

co.uk did some extensive research<br />

into the UK’s favourite wedding<br />

cake flavour and found that 84% of<br />

guests like traditional fruitcake. They<br />

prefer fresh fruit with strawberry and<br />

SIDE SHOW<br />

Domestic Goddess<br />

With so many dietary requirements to consider it’s hard catering<br />

for everyone’s needs. My Baker has a solution. They’ll make<br />

you a second ‘dietary friendly’ side cake to go with your main<br />

showstopper so that no one feels left out. This could be a vegan,<br />

eggless or gluten-free sponge, whatever you’re after speak to the<br />

team who deliver cakes across the UK. www.mybaker.co<br />

lemon cakes being firm favourites.<br />

The number one wedding cake<br />

flavour is classic vanilla, followed by<br />

chocolate and red velvet, but if you<br />

fancy something a little different,<br />

discuss options with your wedding<br />

cake supplier. It’s common to serve<br />

several tiers with different flavours to<br />

appeal to all palettes. We’ve also seen<br />

an emergence of desi flavours proving<br />

popular with brides; think masala<br />

chai sponge and rose and cardamom;<br />

someone put the kettle on!<br />

It’s not usual for a family member to bake your<br />

wedding cake so if an aunty offers to take on the<br />

role, treat them to some new baking accessories.<br />

We love the colourful new Great British Bake Off<br />

inspired range from Cath Kidston which features<br />

patterned mixing bowls, measuring spoons,<br />

dainty tea towels, gorgeous crockery, cake tins<br />

and a star baker apron. www.cathkidston.com<br />

Paper Flowers<br />

Make sustainability part of your decision-making. Paper<br />

flowers are versatile and kinder for the environment. <strong>Wedding</strong><br />

Stationary experts Ananya Cards make decorative paper<br />

flowers in the colour theme and quantity of your choice.<br />

We recommend using them as décor, favours and even<br />

incorporating them into buttonholes. After the wedding,<br />

they’re a wonderful keepsake.<br />

www.ananyacards.com<br />

Bouquet<br />

Charms<br />

Dress up your bridal bouquet<br />

with a cute keepsake<br />

charm. Add them to any<br />

bunches being held by your<br />

bridesmaids and flower girls<br />

too; they’ll love the gesture<br />

of adding a detail they can<br />

keep.<br />

www.mwstudio.co.uk<br />

ASIANA<br />

LOVES<br />

Dried<br />

Arrangements<br />

If your favourite flowers<br />

aren’t in season, go for dried<br />

instead. Their softer shades,<br />

whimsical aesthetic and<br />

delicate nature make them<br />

extra special. A bonus is that<br />

you don’t need to worry<br />

about them wilting as they’re<br />

already preserved.<br />

www.juneinmarch.com


How to make a DIY Food Hamper<br />

SPOTLIGHT:<br />

After the wedding when you’re back from your honeymoon,<br />

the first thing on your list should be sending out thank you<br />

cards and gifts to everyone who helped behind-the-scenes.<br />

From family members to service providers, they<br />

all did far more than you’ll ever know, so let<br />

them know they’re appreciated. A handmade<br />

hamper is perfect as it’s something that will be<br />

used, loved and shared. Here are five tips for<br />

how to make one and what to put inside.<br />

1Buy a basket<br />

You’ll need a natural straw basket with<br />

a lid like this Siesta Picnic Hamper<br />

(beaumonde.co.uk) to fill with intriguing<br />

luxury goodies and treats<br />

2Add crockery<br />

Mugs are great for presenting edible<br />

items inside while plates should be<br />

positioned at the back of a hamper. We<br />

love the colourful Marajah range from Easy<br />

Life (easylife.boutique) which features<br />

joyful elephant illustrations.<br />

3Tea is essential<br />

A luxury loose-leaf tea is a hamper<br />

must. French tea connoisseurs Mariage<br />

Frères (mariagefreres.com) have flavoured<br />

teas for every occasion. Each one is exquisitely<br />

presented and tastes like you’re taking high tea<br />

in a five-star hotel. The Christmas collection<br />

features yummy concoctions of black tea with<br />

festive fruits and warming spices.<br />

ART BY SHREE<br />

A one-of-a-kind artwork makes a thoughtful gift<br />

and when you commission the most sort after<br />

South Asian painter of the moment to create it, the<br />

recipient will appreciate the gesture even more.<br />

London-based Artist Shree who was recently<br />

nominated for an Asian Achiever’s Award<br />

creates breathtaking canvas works inspired by<br />

her Indian heritage. Each piece is unique and<br />

characterised by its vivid colours and textures.<br />

Compositions feature quotes, goddesses and<br />

abstract designs. Her work has been snapped up<br />

by Bollywood stars and look timeless hung up at<br />

home. Contact Shreena directly to commission<br />

her or buy prints from her Etsy store.<br />

www.artbyshree.com<br />

4Choose a spread<br />

Preserves and pickles are the usual<br />

jars you’ll find in a hamper, alongside<br />

them pop in a jar of the scrumptious nut<br />

butters from ButterNut London (butternut.com).<br />

Lovingly made in small batches<br />

they shower tastebuds with pure pleasure.<br />

Choose between Coconut Cardamom<br />

Cashew, Maple Turmeric Cashew and lots<br />

more.<br />

ASIANA<br />

TIP:<br />

5Say thank you<br />

Finally, add a colourful ribbon and drop<br />

the gift hamper off in person if you can.<br />

Don’t forget to pop in a handwritten card.<br />

Ananya Cards (ananyacards.com) can make<br />

them personalised to your needs using luxurious<br />

card and printing techniques.<br />

Chocolate Stash<br />

Take it from us, wedding days are long so it’s essential your bridal<br />

party have tasty treats to hand to keep their sugar levels and<br />

morale up – some couture cocoa is just the thing. Order a batch of<br />

handmade chocolate bars lovingly created by Priya at Flowers &<br />

Thorn. Flavours include pistachio & rose and cardamom and they<br />

come beautifully packaged in bright pink foil. It will be love at<br />

first sight and bite. www.flowersandthorn.co.uk<br />

RECOMMENDED READ<br />

Enjoy some wedding planning downtime with a<br />

chai and a good book. Sex Bomb, the memoirs<br />

of comedian and podcaster<br />

Sadia Azmat is a refreshing,<br />

honest and open account<br />

of what it’s like navigating<br />

life as a horny hijabi.<br />

Sadia shares her real-life<br />

horror stories of dating<br />

and her struggles of<br />

juggling work with<br />

her side-hustle of<br />

performing stand-up<br />

comedy. You’ll<br />

laugh, you’ll cry<br />

and you want to pass it on to all your<br />

girlfriends. www.sadiaazmat.com


Amazonia Tea Set<br />

Seasonal Trend: <strong>Aut</strong>umn<br />

www.micucci.co.uk<br />

Warm orange glows and<br />

soothing rustic browns capture<br />

the spirit of <strong>Aut</strong>umn. <strong>Aut</strong>umnal<br />

weddings are an opportunity<br />

to celebrate nature at its most<br />

magical and it’s easy to bring<br />

these elements into your<br />

wedding day says Colour Expert<br />

Momtaz Begum-Hossain. She<br />

says: “<strong>Aut</strong>umn shades are<br />

versatile and luxurious and<br />

add depth to your décor. At one<br />

end of the <strong>Aut</strong>umn spectrum,<br />

you have dark chocolates and<br />

rich mochas which work well<br />

in furniture like traditionally<br />

carved mandaps, while at the<br />

other you have deep purples.<br />

Pops of red and yellows bring<br />

a refreshing vibrancy and<br />

when you team them with the<br />

purples, browns and orange<br />

everything feels welcoming and<br />

cosy; exactly how guests like to<br />

feel when they attend a wedding<br />

LED Pinecone Candle<br />

www.annabeljames.co.uk<br />

in the cooler months.”<br />

<strong>Aut</strong>umnal wreaths look<br />

stylish and are a nod to the<br />

winter season around the<br />

corner. Look out for anything<br />

themed such year such pine<br />

cones and woodland animals.<br />

It’s important to consider<br />

light sources too; candles and<br />

lanterns create a comforting<br />

<strong>Aut</strong>umn glow both indoors and<br />

out.<br />

Wondering how to capture this<br />

season’s palette? Here’s the<br />

top pick from Colour Expert<br />

Momtaz Begum-Hossain<br />

Midnight Blue Wreath<br />

www.dibor.co.uk<br />

TREND ALERT:<br />

DIY WEDDING<br />

Bring rustic, natural charm to<br />

your wedding stationery with a<br />

rubber stamp. Choose a motif<br />

that captures the spirit of your<br />

theme and use it on everything<br />

from place settings to signage.<br />

www.skullandcrossbuns.com<br />

Floral Scrapbook<br />

www.paperchase.com<br />

Chai Spice Candle-Making Kit<br />

www.selfmadecandle.com<br />

Star Lantern<br />

www.paperstarlights.com<br />

Profile photo by Anthony Lycett


BRIDAL NOTEBOOK<br />

Mushroom Cloche<br />

www.habitate.co.uk<br />

Seasonal Trend: Winter<br />

MOOD BOARD INSPO: CANDY COLOURS<br />

Seek out soft pastels and combine candyfloss colours with snow,<br />

silver and evergreens for social media-trending wedding décor.<br />

www.wayfair.co.uk<br />

For a wedding that’s straight from the pages<br />

of a fairytale, winter wonderland weddings<br />

have all the perfect elements for elegance<br />

such as snow, faux fur, white pearls and<br />

crystals. Traditionally these have been the<br />

go-to décor choices for couples, but for a<br />

more contemporary feel introduce some of<br />

the sparkles of Christmas into your festivities.<br />

Momtaz advises: “Don’t be afraid of colour.<br />

If you’re opting for a Narniaesque feel don’t<br />

stop at white and silver, accents of blue add<br />

contrast heightening the overall impact of the<br />

room or table display. Softer pastel shades<br />

reminiscent of Spring have been surfacing in<br />

winter mood boards - the most appealing of<br />

which is candy colours of mint, blush pinks,<br />

peaches and cream. They would bring a regal<br />

yet fresh feel to a registry celebration.”<br />

Candle Holder<br />

www.ivylinebg.co.uk<br />

TRIED & TESTED: DRINKS KITCHEN<br />

Premium non-alcoholic drinks have come a long way<br />

and it’s always great to see new soft drinks making their<br />

mark. Award-winning Somerset-based business Drinks<br />

Kitchen make a range of beverages that teetotalers and<br />

anyone cutting back on alcohol can enjoy. Their range<br />

includes Spiced Rhubarb which contains aromatic<br />

juniper and a hint of chilli and Orange Chincona which<br />

has a zesty peel and bittersweet finish. Serve at your<br />

drinks reception for a welcome drink with a difference.<br />

www.drinkskitchen.online<br />

Winter décor ideas<br />

www.marksandspencer.com<br />

Wild Wonderland<br />

Tealight Holder<br />

www.dibor.co.uk<br />

Honey, Cranberry and<br />

Vanilla Soaps<br />

www.notonthehighstreet.com


More than ever, our homes are at the centre of our lives. For<br />

many of us, it’s where we work, sleep, play and socialise so<br />

it’s vital everything serves a purpose, be it functional or<br />

emotional. For newly-weds, a new home offers the chance<br />

to create an abode together. For a happy first home, fill<br />

your space with design choices, colours and pieces that you will want to<br />

live with every day.<br />

BOOKS WE LOVE<br />

Like art, books add style, depth and character<br />

to any home. If you have a penchant for travel,<br />

you’ll love the hardcover travel-themed coffee<br />

table books produced by Assouline. The<br />

recently-launched<br />

(£70, www.net-aporter.com)<br />

is a<br />

beautiful silk-lined<br />

hardback that pays<br />

homage to India’s<br />

‘Pink City’ and<br />

comes filled with<br />

over 200 pretty<br />

illustrations for you<br />

to flick through.<br />

Sweet<br />

HOME<br />

Stylish touches for your love nest<br />

Camel, Lahore Late<br />

19th Century Print<br />

(£140,<br />

50cm x 62cm)<br />

Liven up your walls<br />

A well-chosen piece of art can transform a goodlooking<br />

living space into a perfect one. We love<br />

these ethnic style prints by King and McGaw.<br />

www.kingandmcgaw.com<br />

A Scene in the East Indies by William<br />

Daniell (£140, 49cm x 62cm)<br />

HOME<br />

Adorned with a floral design, these<br />

beautiful Homesense Chest of<br />

Drawers will make a statement in any<br />

Scent<br />

room. Your<br />

www.homesense.com<br />

Home<br />

Fragrance sticks and diffusers are a stylish<br />

way to scent your home and create<br />

an inviting ambience. Rituals Happiness<br />

Fragrance Sticks (£31.50) contain moodboosting<br />

neroli and sensual Indian<br />

sandalwood. If you prefer an uplifting<br />

scent, try Jo Malone Townhouse Fresh Fig<br />

and Cassis Diffuser (£140) which is warm<br />

and inviting. The super chic Diptyque<br />

Plug-in Diffuser (£95), has a metallic lattice<br />

design and can be used with nine iconic<br />

Diptyque scent cartridges.<br />

DRESS THE FLOORS<br />

Rugs can instantly add texture to<br />

your floors. They can either sit in<br />

harmony with your space or stand<br />

out as a statement piece. This<br />

hand-woven and perfectly crafted<br />

French Connection Kerala Chenille<br />

Rug (£125) has a vintage-inspired<br />

print with soft coral, slate grey and<br />

ivory hues. It’s lovingly made in<br />

India from recycled plastic bottles,<br />

making it an ethical way to style<br />

your space. Team it up with the<br />

matching Kerala Ottoman Bench<br />

(£250).<br />

www.frenchconnection.com


INTERIORS<br />

Words: Anjana Gosai<br />

Trend alert: Glistening Gold and Brushed Brass<br />

Opulent and glamorous, add hints of gold and brass to your home to bring warmth and a classic touch<br />

Be the host with the most by showing off your spirits in a luxe<br />

drinks trolley. www.dobbies.com<br />

Beautifully-carved and elegant, the Pooky Vulpo mirror makes a<br />

strong statement in any room. www.pooky.com<br />

Gold accessories and brass adorned furniture like this Cuckooland Meena<br />

Cabinet will give your room a luxurious edge. www.cuckooland.com<br />

Add a touch of grown-up glamour to your dining table.<br />

www.johnlewis.com


REAL WEDDINGS<br />

PART OF<br />

YOUR WORLD<br />

Bride Karishma was keen to celebrate the<br />

Sri Lankan heritage of her husband Tash but<br />

when the global pandemic put a stop to their<br />

wedding abroad they brought their cultures<br />

together in a romantic union closer to home<br />

The Planning<br />

Our wedding was always going to be in Sri<br />

Lanka as Tash is Sri Lankan but when<br />

covid hit we kept postponing it until we<br />

realised no one knew when the borders<br />

would re-open. But that didn’t stop us from<br />

having our dream day. We compromised<br />

by holding the first part of our union,<br />

the Indian celebrations in the UK and it<br />

turned out to be the best decision we made,<br />

though it wasn’t easy.<br />

From the moment we decided we would<br />

WEDDING<br />

DETAILS<br />

Bride: Karishma<br />

Groom: Tashan<br />

Date of <strong>Wedding</strong>: 21 October 2021<br />

Venue: Offley Place<br />

Photography: Kreative Klicks<br />

have our Indian ceremony here, we only<br />

had seven weeks until the Big Day so we<br />

both had to get organising. Looking back<br />

now, seven weeks is a tight timeline but<br />

we did it. The most important decision was<br />

finding a venue that would echo elements<br />

of why we wanted to marry in Sri Lanka<br />

which was lots of natural light.<br />

We spent two whole days ringing venues,<br />

getting prices and shortlisting them down<br />

to three venues - Offley Place was one.<br />

Strapped for time, after visiting the first<br />

venue we hastily decided we would pick it.<br />

But just before we made the final decision<br />

on the other venue, our parents pushed us<br />

to go and view Offley Place. And we are so<br />

glad they did! As our wedding was originally<br />

going to be in tropical Sri Lanka and<br />

natural light was our priority, Offley Place, a<br />

country house hotel in Hertfordshire didn’t<br />

disappoint. Outside of the venue’s main<br />

manor house was beautifully draped with<br />

climbing ivy and oh my god we were in love!


The Theme & Inspiration<br />

Our families are from India and Sri Lanka<br />

and one of the things we both have in<br />

common is our appreciation for nature<br />

so we incorporated that into our theme.<br />

Our plan was to ‘bring the outside in’ and<br />

this gave us the opportunity to use lots<br />

of earthy greens and foliage and keep<br />

everything looking soft and natural.<br />

We got our outfits in India. Though most<br />

couples get their colour themes from the<br />

bridal outfit, we let Tash’s safa set the<br />

tones for ours.<br />

The Big Day<br />

The day started with us waking up at our<br />

venue at a very dark and cloudy 6.30am<br />

following a storm from the night before, so<br />

we were nervous about how the weather<br />

would turn out. It was a leisurely morning<br />

and not rushed; Tash even managed to go<br />

to the restaurant and have a full breakfast<br />

and spy on the décor of the ballroom which<br />

is where the main wedding took place.<br />

Having our families around was<br />

reassuring and they kept popping into<br />

our rooms while we were getting ready<br />

which helped alleviate our nerves. The<br />

first thing we did was have our portraits<br />

taken, they turned out to be very regal and<br />

atmospheric and are timeless shots that we<br />

will treasure.


REAL WEDDINGS<br />

Tash made his grand arrival which<br />

was extremely colourful. I was sad that I<br />

couldn’t witness it myself as it looked so<br />

fun. But there was other good news. All of a<br />

sudden the huge black cloud that has been<br />

looming in the sky vanished, the warm<br />

sun beamed into my room and I finally<br />

experienced the natural light I was hoping<br />

for.<br />

After that the day went smoothly. My<br />

brothers collected me and brought me<br />

down to the ceremony which was an<br />

emotional moment for everyone. Our guests<br />

were treated to a delicious feast and before<br />

we knew it the games got underway with<br />

one of my little cousins throwing water<br />

over Tash’s cousin in an attempt to get his<br />

shoes!<br />

We may not have had the wedding we<br />

had originally planned but it didn’t matter,<br />

we felt blessed to have finally tied the knot<br />

on a day that was filled with many happy<br />

memories and much laughter. When we<br />

look back at our wedding we remember<br />

feelings all the good vibes from our friends<br />

and family. The ceremony turned out to be<br />

even better than it would have been in Sri<br />

Lanka.


COSMIC LOVE<br />

Lovers of the night sky, Marium and Tamoor’s<br />

Big Day was written in the stars<br />

The Proposal<br />

T (as I call him) took me by complete<br />

surprise. It was a spontaneous proposal.<br />

Back in February this year; we went<br />

for a walk under the stars. T is hugely<br />

fascinated by space and he was showing me<br />

various constellations. I was trying to find<br />

our favourite one, Orion’s Belt, and he was<br />

like ‘babe, what’s over there?’ As I turned<br />

back around, he was down on one knee<br />

with the most gorgeous ring I’d ever seen.<br />

I was over the moon. It was such a magical<br />

moment and it felt like the stars were<br />

shining down on us.<br />

The Venue<br />

I visited the Fairmont in January, for<br />

Afternoon Tea for my birthday with my<br />

best friend. While we were there, we<br />

starting talking about my relationship<br />

with T, which was progressing fast.<br />

Marriage talks were happening so the<br />

topic became very wedding focused. We<br />

WEDDING<br />

DETAILS<br />

Bride: Marium Tahir<br />

Groom: Tamoor Tahir<br />

Date of <strong>Wedding</strong>: 20th August 2022<br />

Venue: Fairmont Windsor Park<br />

Photography: Unique Films<br />

ended up talking to one of the directors,<br />

who showed us around the different<br />

ballrooms, and I instantly fell in love. I<br />

remember saying then and there to Dani,<br />

‘I want to get married here’. As soon as T<br />

proposed, enquiring about the venue was<br />

one of the first things I did. The ballroom<br />

was so beautiful it didn’t need any further<br />

dressing so we kept the décor minimal and<br />

were able to enjoy the grand setting.<br />

The Big Day<br />

Waking up with my mama at the Fairmont<br />

on my wedding day felt like a dream. We<br />

stayed over the night before so were able<br />

to enjoy the facilities, heading to breakfast<br />

at 7am. Some brides have their make-up<br />

artist turn up at 4/5am but mine came at<br />

a more convenient 10am and that’s when<br />

the Big Day felt like it was properly getting<br />

underway.<br />

The best part was that my mama and<br />

I got ready together in our suite. Both of<br />

us got pampered and had our hair and<br />

make-up done and I loved being able to<br />

make these special memories with her.<br />

Afterwards, we went downstairs and were


REAL WEDDINGS<br />

greeted by my father and brother who<br />

were starstruck when they saw me dressed<br />

as a bride, they also made me feel like a<br />

princess. It was also a chance for me to<br />

spend some time with my bridesmaids and<br />

we used it as an opportunity to look around<br />

the venue and get our selfies and family<br />

photos before the guests arrived. For my<br />

outfit I wore a traditional red Pakistani<br />

bridal lengha. T wore ivory and my<br />

bridesmaids looked pretty in pink.<br />

Some brides miss the baraat but luckily<br />

I was able to watch T arrive in style<br />

from the window of my suite. We did our<br />

nikkah, I had mine first and then T did<br />

his but we didn’t see each other properly<br />

until afterwards when I made my grand<br />

entrance and the wedding finally began.<br />

We had our couple’s photos while mains<br />

were being served, a delicious feast by<br />

Ragamama. Then it was time for the<br />

speeches. I ended up doing a surprise<br />

speech which no one knew about and that<br />

felt great.<br />

My rukhsati, which is when I said<br />

goodbye to my family, was the most<br />

emotional part of the day, as I am so close<br />

to both of my parents and my brother. I was<br />

moving over two hours away so I wouldn’t<br />

be seeing them as much as I would like;<br />

this made having such an intimate<br />

wedding and spending time with my mama<br />

all the more special. There were lots of<br />

tears from my family and friends, but I’m<br />

beyond happy to have known I parted with<br />

lots of duas and into my loving husband’s<br />

family.<br />

Looking back at the photos I feel<br />

so happy but there’s also a sense of<br />

melancholy. It’s so sad knowing I won’t get<br />

to dress up and be that pretty again! But<br />

jokes aside, I couldn’t be happier. These<br />

photos evoke memories of the happiest day<br />

of my life and make me thank my lucky<br />

stars.


DESTINATION<br />

WEDDING:<br />

PORTUGAL<br />

PRETTY AS<br />

A PICTURE<br />

How Karishma and Ravi<br />

found perfection in Portugal<br />

When Ravi whisked<br />

Karishma away for a<br />

weekend in the Lake<br />

District and popped<br />

the question during<br />

a romantic sunset stroll by Derwent<br />

Water, the couple knew that they wanted<br />

to celebrate their union with an outdoor<br />

wedding: “The idea of getting married<br />

amongst nature with a backdrop of birds,<br />

sun, the elements of fire, earth, water<br />

and air really appealed to us. Given how<br />

unreliable the British weather can be, we<br />

opted to have our wedding somewhere with<br />

guaranteed sunshine. We viewed the venues<br />

during a trip to Portugal in November 2021<br />

and it was love at first sight!”<br />

WEDDING<br />

DETAILS<br />

Bride: Karishma Kanabar<br />

Groom: Ravi Damani<br />

Date of <strong>Wedding</strong>: 1st -3rd August 2022<br />

Venue: Civil <strong>Wedding</strong>: Forte Da Cruz,<br />

Cascais. Hindu <strong>Wedding</strong>: Penha Longa Ritz<br />

Carlton Resort, Sintra, Portugal<br />

Photography: Profoto Studios<br />

Cue August 2022: the couple invited 80<br />

guests to join them for a three-day wedding<br />

extravaganza held in two beautiful<br />

Portuguese locations that ticked their<br />

alfresco box, with added luxury, elegance<br />

and magic.<br />

The Venue, Theme & Décor<br />

Karishma and Ravi combined elements of<br />

their Portugese location with their Hindu<br />

heritage. For their civil registry the colour<br />

palette was white and blue based on the<br />

traditional Azulejo tiles from the region<br />

and the bridesmaids wore pale blue dresses<br />

which complimented the sea views as the<br />

ceremony was held on a fort over-looking<br />

the beach.<br />

For their Hindu wedding ceremony<br />

the couple opted for an Indian Summer<br />

Garden theme in the picturesque grounds<br />

of the Penha Longa Resort which was<br />

once used as a meditation site for monks<br />

living in the nearby monastery. Karishma<br />

reminisces: “Our mandap was across a<br />

pool of sparkling turquoise water and<br />

the sound of the pool being filled with a<br />

steady stream of water filled the garden<br />

with a soothing noise alongside the sound<br />

of a meditative Bansuri being played<br />

during the wedding ceremony; it felt like a<br />

dream.”


REAL WEDDINGS<br />

THE OUTFITS<br />

Over their three days of festivities, the couple held six<br />

events: civil wedding, Ganesh pooja/mandvo, pithi,<br />

mehndhi party, Hindu wedding and reception, giving them<br />

the opportunity to wear different outfits. The couple did<br />

their shopping in the UK but when it came to the Hindu<br />

wedding both outfits were designed from Karishma’s vision<br />

of a floral lengha with pops of hot pink and a sherwani for<br />

Ravi with complementing design and a matching dupatta.<br />

The Big Day<br />

The celebrations took place during<br />

the week with their civil ceremony<br />

first; it was no ordinary Monday!<br />

Guests were transported to the<br />

beach where they were greeted<br />

by the sounds of a Bollywood<br />

string quartet. The beach setting<br />

allowed the couple to get stunning<br />

portrait shots, making the most<br />

of golden hour and sunset. This<br />

was followed by a magical moment<br />

where guests created a twinkling<br />

archway of sparklers that the<br />

couple walked through to cut the<br />

cake.<br />

It was an early start the next<br />

day for the pithi and mandvo<br />

ceremonies. This included the<br />

chundri ceremony where the<br />

groom’s mother and siblings place<br />

a dupatta on the head of the bride<br />

and give her gifts, and the pithi<br />

ceremony where guests place haldi<br />

on the couple, followed by a flower<br />

shower where they tossed petals<br />

on the bride and groom.<br />

That evening the venue was<br />

transformed for the sangeet and<br />

mehndi party. Guests enjoyed<br />

mocktails and canapés and<br />

danced to classic Bollywood<br />

songs. Keeping with the filmi<br />

spirit Karishma’s sister Roshni<br />

and the bridesmaids performed a<br />

Bollywood dance routine straight<br />

from the pages of a Karan Johar<br />

hit. Games, a disco and traditional<br />

Gujarati garba dancing was a fun<br />

end to the evening.<br />

On the final day the Baarat<br />

started with Ravi entering on a<br />

golf buggy to the sounds of dholis<br />

and a saxophone as smoke bombs<br />

released a rainbow of colours.<br />

Karishma entered to the sounds of<br />

a live flute.<br />

The celebrations culminated in<br />

a grand cocktail reception with<br />

food, speeches and the couple’s<br />

First Dance as husband and wife.<br />

Karishma sums up: “Looking back<br />

at the photos, the whole wedding<br />

feels like a dream. Three days<br />

went by in a flash but these were<br />

some of the happiest moments<br />

of our life. Seeing our family and<br />

friends smiling and enjoying<br />

themselves in the photo means the<br />

whole world to us.”


DESTINATION<br />

WEDDING:<br />

ITALY<br />

You’ll know him as ‘The<br />

Digital Doctor’ online, Dr<br />

Sohaib Imtiaz is an expert<br />

in lifestyle medicine and<br />

Founder of the Ameli App,<br />

but when it came to his wedding day it<br />

was very much a ‘Digital Detox’ as he and<br />

his beautiful wife Sana celebrated their<br />

union in an intimate ceremony in one of<br />

the world’s most romantic destinations;<br />

Lake Como. Here, he shares highlights<br />

from their dream day…<br />

Sana and I love to travel, I even<br />

proposed to her abroad. We were in Miami<br />

and after taking her for a meal in a lovely<br />

restaurant we took a stroll along the beach<br />

and that’s where I proposed. I felt like the<br />

luckiest guy alive when she said ‘yes’: she’s<br />

my best friend and it felt so right.<br />

WEDDING<br />

DETAILS<br />

Bride: Sana Khan<br />

Groom: Dr Sohaib Imtiaz<br />

Date of <strong>Wedding</strong>: 6th August 2022<br />

Venue: Villa del Balbianello,<br />

Lake Como, Italy<br />

Photography: Vittore<br />

THAT’S AMORE<br />

Breathtaking views overlooking Lake Como was the<br />

perfect backdrop for Sohaib and Sana’s romantic nikkah<br />

We wanted to keep that theme of<br />

magical things happening in magical<br />

places so when we started planning our<br />

wedding, we knew we wanted a location<br />

that was out of the ordinary. Getting<br />

married in Italy was our dream as we<br />

adore its whimsical, picturesque setting.<br />

We chose Villa del Balbianello for the<br />

location of our nikkah, it was rich in<br />

history and romance, built on the site of<br />

an ancient monastery, on the shores of<br />

Lake Como with idyllic terraced gardens.<br />

It didn’t need any further décor, the lake<br />

views were enough, we simply enhanced<br />

and personalised it by adding white<br />

flowers. One of my favourite moments was<br />

travelling by a private boat taxi to reach<br />

the villa, holding hands all the way there


and being so mesmerised by Sana and the<br />

surroundings; it was just like a fairytale.<br />

As this was our nikkah, which is the<br />

Islamic ceremony we wanted to keep<br />

the celebrations special and intimate<br />

so invited only a handful of loved ones.<br />

The venue provided the catering and it<br />

wonderful to simply slow down, enjoy<br />

the setting and good company on a warm<br />

summer’s day, sharing these precious<br />

moments with lots of laughter with the<br />

most important people in our life. The<br />

amount of love and affection we got from<br />

everyone made it extra special day.<br />

Looking back at our photos they truly<br />

capture the spark in our relationship<br />

and it’s a wonderful reminder of how<br />

beautiful our day was as we look forward<br />

to our walima in December which we’ll<br />

be celebrating with extended friends and<br />

family.<br />

REAL WEDDINGS


Josh and I met aged 17 and<br />

our friendship blossomed into<br />

romance when we were 19, so the<br />

proposal felt very natural. It was<br />

a chilly Saturday morning, one<br />

of those days where the indoors beckons.<br />

Josh went to make the coffee while I<br />

decided what to watch on Netflix and<br />

when he returned with steaming coffee<br />

in hand, instead of going to his side of the<br />

sofa, he got down on one knee! I cried in<br />

joy and said yes a thousand times!<br />

The look<br />

OF LOVE<br />

Childhood sweethearts Navreen and<br />

Josh celebrated 12 years of romance<br />

with the wedding of their dreams<br />

The Venue, Theme & Décor<br />

We got married at Braxted Park, a<br />

beautiful countryside estate with a<br />

majestic drive and plush gardens. Our<br />

reception theme had a ‘midnight garden’<br />

vibe. We had tall floral centrepieces with<br />

peach and coral flowers and a ceiling<br />

decorated with foliage and hanging<br />

wisteria. Our colour theme of gold and<br />

peachy tones was reflected in our table<br />

settings including ornate gold charger<br />

plates and frosted peach tumblers. Gold<br />

is a colour I associate with celebration<br />

and glamour, as well as the richness of my<br />

Indian culture. The venue is a short drive<br />

away from my childhood home. I can’t<br />

help but feel there is something special in<br />

that, unbeknown to me, I had gone past<br />

the venue of my dreams almost every day<br />

from the age of seven.<br />

WEDDING<br />

DETAILS<br />

Bride: Navreen Singh<br />

Groom: Josh Sarson<br />

Date of <strong>Wedding</strong>: 20th August 2022<br />

Venue: Braxted Park<br />

Photography: Julia West<br />

THE OUTFITS<br />

I live by the philosophy of ‘Best of Both’<br />

in terms of my British and Indian heritage<br />

and so it was only right my outfits followed<br />

suit. I had five outfits across the wedding<br />

week. For our wedding day, I wore an ivory<br />

lace dress with bespoke veil and for the<br />

evening, a bright red lengha from Monga’s.<br />

It was the first one I tried and it was love at<br />

first sight; it made me feel like a beautiful<br />

Indian bride.


REAL WEDDINGS<br />

The Big Week<br />

Some couples have a Big Day, we had a<br />

Big Week as the main wedding day was<br />

preceded by a festive week of traditional<br />

Punjabi events. The wedding day itself<br />

was inspired by a fusion of our cultures<br />

and us. We had a Western humanist<br />

ceremony, where our close friend Jesse<br />

married us, and the whole day was<br />

infused with elements from my Indian<br />

heritage. The theme of our wedding was<br />

country grandeur and glam.<br />

Our ceremony started at 1.30pm in<br />

the Orangery, a gorgeous room with a<br />

unique Italian mural. Afterwards, we<br />

had a drinks and canapé reception in the<br />

intricate gardens of Braxted Park. The<br />

weather was glorious. At around 5pm our<br />

guests were called into our reception in<br />

the Pavilion and it was time for our big<br />

entrance accompanied by Dhol players.<br />

We had our speeches, mingled in between<br />

our courses and then Josh and I took<br />

some more couple shots during a stunning<br />

golden hour. Then we changed into our<br />

second outfits, ready for our First Dance. I<br />

danced most of the night and boy my feet<br />

only stopped hurting a week later.<br />

The Catering<br />

Josh are I are both foodies, so this was<br />

an important part of the day for us. We<br />

created a bespoke menu where mouthwatering<br />

canapés were served during our<br />

drinks reception featuring a few of my<br />

favourites including lasooni prawns and<br />

smoked aubergine on bite-size prantha.<br />

Our wedding breakfast was a threecourse<br />

affair. Each meal was individually<br />

plated and beautifully presented and<br />

most importantly, it was absolutely<br />

delicious.<br />

The Memories<br />

Something that will always stand out<br />

to me is how personal our day was, and<br />

how it encapsulated our love story. We<br />

are childhood sweethearts and as a<br />

result, have friends and family who have<br />

been with us throughout our 12-year<br />

journey. Our friend Jesse conducted<br />

our marriage ceremony, my school<br />

friend Danielle sang and played<br />

the guitar as I walked down the<br />

aisle, our matchmaker Aisha,<br />

who introduced us, was our<br />

Best Woman and Josh’s best<br />

friend from primary school Mat<br />

was his Best Man. When I look<br />

back at the photos they reflect<br />

the love and joy we experienced<br />

on the best day of our lives. Our<br />

photographer Julia did an incredible<br />

job capturing the special moments<br />

and making us feel so comfortable in the<br />

process.


Everlasting ELEGANCE<br />

When your brother is the designer behind a leading fashion brand,<br />

you’re guaranteed to have the best bridal outfits ever as Preeti found<br />

when Hare from Sharon’s Couture created her a trousseau of dreams<br />

WEDDING<br />

DETAILS<br />

Bride: Preeti Dhami<br />

Groom: Stephen (Ste) Spencer<br />

Date of <strong>Wedding</strong>: 7/4/2022 & 28/5/2022<br />

Venue: Shustoke Barn (Civil) &<br />

Home (Indian)<br />

Photography: The <strong>Wedding</strong> Film and<br />

Photo Co & Filmworks Media<br />

The Proposal<br />

Ste proposed a year prior to us getting<br />

married on my birthday. Under the covid<br />

restrictions, he paired up with my siblings<br />

and orchestrated the entire proposal.<br />

He brought over my birthday presents<br />

and then asked if I’d like to go for a walk<br />

in the park. With covid, there weren’t<br />

many places open so the park it was! He<br />

didn’t know the area well and kept asking<br />

questions about where the bridge was<br />

with the canal running through it which I<br />

thought was odd.<br />

We walked into the orchard section of<br />

the park which my siblings had set up<br />

with flowers and when we approached<br />

this magical setting, Ste got down on<br />

one knee and proposed with my siblings<br />

hiding nearby enough to take pictures,<br />

but not to be seen by me.<br />

I felt like something was up as Ste’s<br />

behaviour felt slightly odd especially<br />

as he kept checking his inside coat<br />

pocket. When he did propose it was a<br />

very emotional moment where we both<br />

got slightly teary as he pulled out the<br />

most beautiful sapphire and diamond<br />

engagement ring. I instantly said yes and<br />

remember being so overjoyed with all the<br />

emotions.


REAL WEDDINGS


The Civil Ceremony<br />

We had two wedding days which gave us<br />

the chance to have two different but very<br />

elegant themes. We both liked the idea<br />

of a barn. I had always wanted to avoid<br />

a wedding reception in a dark conference<br />

centre atmosphere, even from an early<br />

age I had a vision of a luxury marquee<br />

setting that was light and gave a taste of<br />

the outdoors. We found the perfect venue<br />

that was cosy and had a traditional vibe.<br />

We wanted to keep its rustic charm but<br />

enhanced it with flowers and foliage<br />

including green eucalyptus leaves and<br />

white flowers with floating candles.<br />

Guests were treated to a three-course<br />

meal with a Mediterranean theme. The<br />

mouth-watering spread included halloumi<br />

skewers, falafel, tabbouleh, wood fire<br />

flatbreads, roast chicken, French onion tart<br />

and chocolate fondant with ice cream. In<br />

the evening, we all tucked into fresh stonebaked<br />

pizzas which went down a treat.<br />

One memory I won’t forget from the<br />

day is that I was so eager not to be late<br />

that I was the first one ready, before my<br />

bridesmaids and my entire family - I was<br />

waiting on the bridal party as oppose to<br />

them waiting for me!<br />

The Sikh Ceremony<br />

For our Indian reception, we kept a similar<br />

theme as a civil but with additional white<br />

flowers and a sophisticated white-on-white<br />

theme. Design and décor details included a<br />

pretty flower wall, orchard trees ad candles,<br />

it felt so special, but it was also a complete<br />

contrast to the Jaggo party. That reception<br />

was bright, flamboyant, and full of nostalgic<br />

Punjabi style. Our Punjabi feast featured<br />

classic dishes such as gol goppa, samosa<br />

chaat, shaahi paneer and butter chicken<br />

with the yummiest cheesecake, gajerela and<br />

ice cream to finish off.<br />

We had a total of 60 guests at our<br />

Sikh wedding ceremony and for our<br />

civil wedding. It was really important to<br />

us to have small and intimate wedding<br />

ceremonies to keep it feeling personal but<br />

for our reception, the number increased to<br />

170 guests. It was still small enough that we<br />

could speak to all our guests as I was very<br />

keen to have ‘quality over quantity.’<br />

One of the memorable moments of the<br />

day was when my siblings performed a<br />

surprise dance sequence for me and Ste. It<br />

was so special as it was unexpected. The<br />

coordination and performance were so well<br />

received by all the guests that I felt so proud<br />

of them.


REAL WEDDINGS<br />

GET THE LOOK: THE OUTFITS<br />

This was the exciting part! My brother Hare is the designer at the<br />

luxury Asian fashion house Sharon’s Couture. To have your own<br />

brother design all your outfits and those of your partner is the most<br />

extraordinary and personalised gift and as a bride, I knew that I<br />

would be wearing nothing short of perfection. Hare designed all<br />

of our outfits for the civil and Sikh ceremonies, my Jaggo party<br />

and Ste’s three-piece suit and sherwani. I knew Hare would do an<br />

incredible job, he still managed to exceed my expectations.<br />

He understood that I didn’t want to wear a traditional red wedding<br />

bridal lengha, yet I still wanted to look regal so he came up with a<br />

design that was red and olive which captured my personality, kept<br />

the traditional element of red and had so much attention to detail.


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are meant to<br />

be big, what’s your<br />

dream?” This is the<br />

question Tasneem<br />

“Dreams<br />

Alibhai asks all the<br />

brides and couples that book her to deliver<br />

their dream wedding day. Her speciality is<br />

destination weddings and she takes on a<br />

limited number each year so that she can<br />

dedicate 24/7 of her time to fulfilling a bride’s<br />

wishes without compromise. She says: “I am<br />

Team Bride, I will go out of my way to ensure<br />

perfection in every aspect of your wedding, not<br />

just the usual tasks like to helping to find and<br />

liaise with venues, caterers, entertainment<br />

and other suppliers; but I’m there for you too.”<br />

Destination<br />

DREAM WEDDING<br />

Whatever vision your heart has for your Big Day, don’t be<br />

afraid to follow it says celebrity wedding planner Tasneem<br />

Alibhai, Founder of TA <strong>Wedding</strong>s & Special Occasions<br />

GETTING MARRIED ABROAD<br />

Post-pandemic the destination wedding industry<br />

is growing in popularity with couples seeking<br />

smaller, more intimate ways to make memories<br />

but while there are now more planners than ever,<br />

very few have the knowledge and experience<br />

that Tasneem has. She says: “I’m always honest<br />

with my couples. Many of my clients are seeking<br />

weddings in the UAE and Oman but what they<br />

may not realise is that the season is October-<br />

April. Outside of those months it’s too hot to<br />

enjoy the locations and there’s no point getting<br />

married abroad if you and your guests are inside<br />

a hotel all day; destination weddings are about<br />

experiencing beautiful backgrounds in heavenly<br />

places.” In the summer months, Tasneem advises<br />

brides to marry in Europe, places like Turkey,<br />

Italy, Cyprus and Portugal; but wherever your<br />

choose and whatever your budget, you can be<br />

sure it will be spectacular.<br />

THE CULTURAL CONNECTION<br />

One of the biggest concerns couples have<br />

when they consider marrying abroad is<br />

whether they can still have the customs and<br />

traditions from their cultural background.<br />

Tasneem has planned weddings for couples<br />

from all over the world so is aware of cultural<br />

needs but most importantly her knowledge of<br />

Asian weddings is second to none. Whatever<br />

your faith she understands all the different<br />

functions, ceremonies and rituals and how<br />

they need to be executed, so you can rest<br />

assured that this element is taken care of.<br />

How bookings work varies between<br />

countries but Tasneem knows what to expect.<br />

She reveals: “In the UK it’s common to book<br />

a venue and different catering suppliers.<br />

In Dubai it’s different, there is no wedding<br />

venue hire fee, instead there is a minimum<br />

spend and this can work out to be more<br />

cost-effective. You’ll get the venue space and<br />

furniture included when you pay for the<br />

catering and beverages. Additional services<br />

like décor, flowers and entertainment are<br />

extra but having the venue and catering<br />

package together removes the headache and<br />

cost of dealing with different suppliers.”


WEDDING PLANNER<br />

DUBAI DREAMS<br />

Dubai has long been a popular honeymoon<br />

destination but with its luxurious hotels, some of<br />

the finest in the world, it’s lavish reputation and<br />

accessibility for guests travelling from all over the<br />

globe, it’s also the perfect place to get married.<br />

Tasneem explains: “Being an ex-pat in Dubai<br />

organising weddings in the city is a pleasure<br />

because I know the industry and suppliers here<br />

so well. Couples are amazed when I tell them<br />

the choice of venues they have – I’ve organised<br />

weddings and events at dream hotels like the<br />

Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, The Ritz Carlton and<br />

Atlantis The Palm and in other Emirates like Abu<br />

Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah. The UAE offers a<br />

wealth of options for brides and I’m always happy<br />

to talk them through with brides and their families.<br />

POPPING THE QUESTION<br />

Tasneem is also the co-founder of a Dubai based<br />

company that helps grooms turn grand gestures<br />

into epic proposals. She explains: “Though<br />

wedding planning is my forte, I was regularly<br />

contacted by grooms who wanted advice, so<br />

together with another industry friend we launched<br />

The Big Proposals. She says: “Usually it’s the men<br />

looking for a way to propose. We suggest three<br />

ideas based on their budget and then help them<br />

execute their vision. Whether you splash out and<br />

have ‘Marry Me’ projected on the Burj Khalifa, or<br />

perhaps a more intimate and affordable private<br />

desert safari, anything is possible.”<br />

About Tasneem, Founder of<br />

TA <strong>Wedding</strong>s & Special Occasions<br />

The most sought after wedding planner in<br />

Dubai, award-winning Destination <strong>Wedding</strong>s<br />

and Special Occasions Planner Tasneem<br />

launched TA <strong>Wedding</strong>s & Special Occasions,<br />

a wedding planning service in 2008. Since<br />

then she’s dedicated her life to her passion;<br />

ensuring every bride has her dream day<br />

exactly as she wants while bringing a level<br />

of magic that the bride never could have<br />

imagined. Tasneem grew up in Norway, has<br />

lived in the UK and now calls the UAE home.<br />

AS SEEN ON NETFLIX: DUBAI BLING<br />

The most-anticipated reality TV show of the <strong>Aut</strong>umn is set<br />

to be Dubai Bling. Launching on Netflix on October 27th it<br />

follows the dazzling lives of 10 self-made multi-millionaires<br />

living in Dubai. One of them is radio presenter and fitness<br />

entrepreneur Kris Fade who hosts The Kris Fade Show on<br />

Virgin Radio Dubai whose wedding, organised by Tasneem<br />

and the TA <strong>Wedding</strong>s & Special Occasions team is set to<br />

be the seen in the series finale. It’s one of the most highprofile<br />

bookings Tasneem has taken on, as she explains:<br />

“I’d previously planned the wedding of Dubai Housewives<br />

star Caroline Stanbury who is a friend of Kris and his wife<br />

Brianna, and like many of my bookings, word-of-mouth<br />

spread and I was invited to meet the couple and discuss<br />

their dream Dubai wedding.”<br />

Kris is Australian Lebanese and Brianna is Mexican<br />

America and they were keen to incorporate both of their<br />

cultures while having a beautiful outdoor wedding which<br />

took place at the iconic Ritz Carlton JBR. Tasneem says:<br />

“I was booked to be their planner before the show got<br />

underway however it was all top secret and though I was<br />

asked to wear a microphone while they recorded for the<br />

show, they couldn’t tell me what it was for. Having seen<br />

the trailer for the show now, everyone in Dubai and fans of<br />

shows like Bling Empire and Singapore Social are excited to<br />

watch it and I hope they’ll get to see a flavour of one of the<br />

grandest weddings that has taken place in the city - it was<br />

an honour to be part of it.”<br />

www.tasneemalibhai.com<br />

bytasneemalibhai


CELEBRATORY<br />

Feast<br />

Awe-inspiring from every<br />

angle, the award-winning<br />

modern Indian restaurant<br />

Colonel Saab established<br />

itself as the most<br />

fashionable dining experience in the capital<br />

when it opened in October 2021. A year on<br />

as it celebrates its first anniversary, the<br />

restaurant continues to cater to discerning<br />

diners keen to try their infamous<br />

Memsaab’s Tasting Menu and those who<br />

are looking for a luxury private dining<br />

experience for a special occasion.<br />

It’s not just the food and décor that<br />

draws in the crowds, history and<br />

hospitality lie at the heart of this<br />

extraordinary dining experience which<br />

is the concept of hotelier Roop Partap<br />

Choudhary. He was keen to open a<br />

For the ultimate in decadent dining, treat your<br />

friends and family to a meal at Colonel Saab<br />

restaurant that celebrated the cultural<br />

cuisine that is rooted throughout India,<br />

from homes to street markets and royal<br />

kitchens.<br />

When you enter the eaterie which Roop<br />

describes as ‘a love letter to India’ you’ll<br />

be transfixed by the attention to detail.<br />

Part museum and part a treasure trove<br />

of artefacts and eclectic Indian art, these<br />

are things Roop and his family picked up<br />

during their travels across India when his<br />

father was a Colonel in the Indian army<br />

and nick-named ‘Colonel Saab.’


PARTY VENUE<br />

VIP DINING EXPERIENCE<br />

If you’re looking for somewhere to catch up with a small<br />

group of friends in the lead up to your Big Day, book a table<br />

in the main restaurant, or for a more exclusive meal, we<br />

recommend you book one of their extravagant private dining<br />

rooms. Colonel Saab is situated in a grand Grade II listed<br />

building, previously Holborn Town Hall which was also a public<br />

library back in 1894. The private dining rooms are a nod to this<br />

heritage with wooden features and stunning chandeliers.<br />

The two rooms can accommodate 30 guests for a seated<br />

dinner, perfect for a pre-wedding function or a dinner that<br />

brings both families together. It’s also perfect for a glamorous<br />

location for your hen or stag meal. And you don’t have to<br />

worry about going thirsty. A drinks bar made by Asprey for<br />

the Maharaja of Patiala takes pride of place in the private<br />

dining room, while 17th and 18th century Tanjore paintings<br />

and handwoven Persian silk carpets adorn the walls and<br />

precious decanters and crockery from the palace of the<br />

Maharaja of Faridkot shimmer in cabinets. It’s a space for<br />

dining and selfie-taking!<br />

RAISE YOUR GLASSES<br />

Every element of Colonel Saab has been<br />

lovingly and imaginatively crafted to create<br />

a multi-sensory experience of India, including<br />

the drinks. A Masala Dabba - or spice box of<br />

artisanal gins, whiskies and rums based on<br />

Indian botanicals has been created with the<br />

Diageo mixology team, along with innovative<br />

cocktails by celebrated mixologist Antony<br />

Bertin, designed to complement the food<br />

and named after family members. We’ll drink<br />

to that!<br />

A TASTE OF INDIA<br />

Colonel Saab’s menu is the culmination of the journey and adventures<br />

across India of Roop’s parents, a blend of traditional and global<br />

ingredients and techniques. You can expect a nostalgic palate of<br />

aromas, memories and flavours so it’s no wonder that Nobel Peace<br />

Prize winner Malala Yousafzai is a fan; she described the food here as<br />

“the only place which serves the authentic flavours from home.”<br />

Choose from the a la carte, seasonal menus for occasions like Diwali<br />

and Christmas, a British and Indian infused High Tea, the Tasting Menu<br />

or their popular two-course Lunch Tiffin. Dishes range from tender<br />

Anglo Indian Chicken Chop to perfectly marinated melt-in-the-mouth<br />

Sarsoi Ajwaini Fish Tikka alongside yummy vegetarian options. The<br />

Tasting Menu curated by Chef Sohan Bhandari allows you to try six<br />

dishes which takes your private dining experience to a new level.<br />

Colonel Saab<br />

193- 197 High Holborn,<br />

Covent Garden, London<br />

WC1V 7BD<br />

0208 016 6800<br />

www.colonelsaab.co.uk


VENUE<br />

FOCUS:<br />

GRAND SAPPHIRE HOTEL<br />

& BANQUETING SUITES<br />

If you’re looking for majestic, luxurious banqueting facilities,<br />

this South London icon ticks all the boxes and so much more…<br />

Elegance and charm are at the<br />

centre of Grand Sapphire,<br />

a modern wedding venue in<br />

Croydon, South London. With<br />

its choice of five-star event<br />

spaces, hotel facilities and delicious inhouse<br />

catering, your wedding celebrations<br />

will be effortless to plan - yet memorable<br />

for all. While most banqueting suites are<br />

blank canvas spaces, here you have the<br />

option of keeping the opulent interiors as<br />

they are; or enhancing them with your<br />

own decorative touches. Whatever you<br />

choose to do, your guests will be in awe<br />

of their surroundings which are spacious,<br />

sophisticated and most importantly<br />

accessible, with plenty of parking spaces.<br />

THE EXPERIENCE<br />

The charm begins from the moment you<br />

enter. Grand Sapphire’s white façade<br />

has a palatial feel and makes a beautiful<br />

backdrop for photos. The venue can lay out<br />

a red carpet to add an A’list touch to the<br />

proceedings before guests head inside the<br />

elegant foyers with luxury décor.<br />

Here, guests can be welcome and directed<br />

to your private function space, or you can<br />

make use of the sumptuous surroundings<br />

and kick-start the party with a drinks<br />

reception.<br />

While guests tuck into canapés, for the<br />

bride who typically joins the festivities<br />

later, Grand Sapphire provides a beautiful<br />

bridal suite where you can relax and get<br />

ready before making your grand entrance.


VENUE<br />

THE EVENT SPACES<br />

The main function area is the Grand Ballroom<br />

and there are an additional three luxury suites;<br />

all of which offer the same high standards of<br />

interior décor come and full A/V and lighting<br />

facilities. Every space can be used for dancing<br />

and entertainment; the most fun part of the day.<br />

The Grand Ballroom<br />

For a wow factor wedding reception<br />

for up to 1000 guests, Grand Sapphire’s<br />

signature suite is the most luxurious. It looks<br />

spectacular when it’s set up banqueting<br />

style. A popular choice is to dress the room<br />

with candles which adds a magical glow<br />

throughout, and complements the dazzling<br />

chandeliers and mood lighting. Combined<br />

with floral arrangements and décor, it<br />

creates a majestic setting.<br />

The Sapphire Suite<br />

Adjacent to The Grand Ballroom, this idyllic<br />

suite is characterised by its LED lighting<br />

features and comfortably seats 500 diners<br />

for a sit-down meal.<br />

The Emirates Suite<br />

Also adjacent to The Grand Ballroom, this<br />

suite can be interconnected to increase the<br />

Ballroom’s capacity. It also has its own foyer<br />

entrance and is suited to smaller functions of<br />

350 guests.<br />

The Rhubarb Suite<br />

With its chic and lavish interiors, this space<br />

is light, airy and intimate, holding up to 144<br />

guests. It’s perfect for intimate ceremonies<br />

and with its floral walls has a fairytale quality.<br />

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD!<br />

The catering options are what sets Grand<br />

Sapphire apart from other banqueting<br />

venues as there’s so much choice and you<br />

can feel rest-assured that you’ll be served<br />

a feast that’s fit for royalty. Choosing your<br />

menu is the hardest part. The venue works<br />

with leading chefs with global experience<br />

so whether you’re after Pakistani, South<br />

Indian, Bangladeshi, Lebanese or Gujarati<br />

catering, dining is a part of the day guests<br />

will really enjoy as they’ll be served<br />

beautifully presented dishes with authentic<br />

flavours.<br />

MORE THAN A WEDDING VENUE…<br />

Having arranged hundreds of weddings over<br />

the years, the team here are well-connected<br />

in the industry and know exactly who to call<br />

on for floral arrangements, fabric backdrops,<br />

tablecentres and your wedding cake and can<br />

even arrange children’s entertainment. It’s<br />

not just weddings that are held here; Grand<br />

Sapphire is also popular for conferences<br />

and charity galas and they’ve organised all<br />

kinds of set-ups with additional activities<br />

including themed casinos - so don’t be<br />

afraid to live out all your wedding dreams,<br />

anything is possible here!<br />

Then, when the evening comes to a close,<br />

guests can retire to Grand Sapphire’s hotel<br />

rooms. The honeymoon suite is a luxurious<br />

boudoir designed to feel like an Indian<br />

palace and is a perfect place to rest before<br />

jet-setting off on your honeymoon from<br />

Gatwick Airport - just a short drive away.<br />

VENUE CHECKLIST:<br />

Accessible for public transport: Yes<br />

Onsite parking: Yes<br />

Catering: In-house options<br />

Spaces: Flexible, blank canvas<br />

Capacity: 144 to 1000<br />

Accommodation: Onsite<br />

A/V: Provided in-house<br />

Support: In-house planners<br />

Grand Sapphire Hotel & Banqueting Suites, 45 Imperial Way, Croydon CR0 4RR • T: 0208 686 2905 • www.grandsapphire.co.uk


FARNHAM<br />

CASTLE<br />

The Lowdown:<br />

Rich in history and oozing sophistication<br />

and style, it’s no surprise that Farnham<br />

Castle is considered to be one of the most<br />

enchanting wedding venues in England.<br />

Glorious gardens, manicured lawns<br />

and stunning features are all important<br />

elements of anyone’s wedding day, and<br />

at Farnham Castle you’ll get all three.<br />

Recent renovations have brought chic,<br />

classic 21st century style and facilities to<br />

the ancient Farnham Castle, making it<br />

the perfect choice for any couple seeking a<br />

romantic and beautiful wedding day. With<br />

a choice of ceremony settings, the elegant<br />

Great Hall for your wedding reception,<br />

world-class dining, beautiful grounds and<br />

accommodation for you and your guests,<br />

your every wedding need is guaranteed to<br />

be met.<br />

Choice of spaces:<br />

The Great Hall (up to 150 guests and 200<br />

in the evening) has real wow-factor and<br />

lavish décor including a stunning central<br />

chandelier, grand fireplace and majestic<br />

gold-framed portraits. The romantic<br />

Lantern Hall can also accommodate 150<br />

for a beautiful civil ceremony in a neutral,<br />

elegant space that gets drenched in<br />

sunlight. The Library provides a bright,<br />

contemporary space where you will enjoy<br />

breakfast in the morning while The<br />

Gatehouse is a comfortable break out style<br />

space with plush sofas that are ideal for<br />

guests to relax in during the day.<br />

Five star dining:<br />

Fabulous food is at the heart of every<br />

celebration at Farnham Castle. Talented<br />

Head Chef, Simon Lloyd, and his team<br />

from Michelin starred restaurant<br />

backgrounds, create exceptional food using<br />

the freshest, best quality ingredients,<br />

lovingly prepared in the Castle kitchens.<br />

Couples are able to tailor their menu to<br />

exactly what they want, often adding<br />

elements that evoke special memories for<br />

them both.<br />

Grand grounds:<br />

The grounds are an impressive feature<br />

of the venue and should be incorporated<br />

into your day. One moment guests can<br />

be indulging in a mouth-watering canapé<br />

and a sip of bubbly while basking in the<br />

sun on the lawns, and the next they can<br />

be strolling to the top of hilltops admiring<br />

the spectacular views, all before enjoying<br />

a spot of croquet with fellow guests within<br />

the Castle grounds. They are yours to enjoy<br />

throughout the day and to use as your<br />

heart desires. They provide the perfect<br />

backdrop for those newlywed photos and<br />

there are lots of places for the two of you to<br />

explore.<br />

CHECKLIST:<br />

Accommodation: The castle can sleep up to<br />

60 guests in 32 rooms and offers a luxury<br />

honeymoon suite for the couple.<br />

Facilities: Chef, choice of rooms, grounds,<br />

honeymoon suite<br />

Licence: The Lantern Hall can offer civil<br />

ceremonies. Hire is available from 9am until<br />

midnight (extended hours until 1am are<br />

available for an additional charge.)<br />

Farnham Castle, Castle Street,<br />

Farnham, Surrey GU9 0AG<br />

Telephone: 01252 413091<br />

www.farnhamcastle-weddings.co.uk


VENUES<br />

TURVEY<br />

HOUSE<br />

The Lowdown:<br />

A magnificent Grade 1 listed stately<br />

home, Turvey House is a unique country<br />

retreat, located within a beautiful village<br />

just 1.5hrs drive from London and<br />

Birmingham.<br />

A family home, it’s lived in by the same<br />

family who have owned it for eight<br />

generations so its steeped in history, family<br />

and tradition. Open only to the public on<br />

special open days, the beauty of the venue<br />

is rarely shared, so holding your wedding<br />

here is extra special.<br />

The venue has an in-house planner who<br />

will help you in the lead up to, and attend<br />

your Big Day to ensure everything runs<br />

smoothly. Arriving at the grand house is<br />

a treat for all who see it. Guests are led<br />

to the terrace at the front of the house<br />

allowing them to admire the exquisite<br />

views, before they are led to a bespoke<br />

marquee which can be themed, lit and<br />

decorated to your own preferences.<br />

Private ceremonies:<br />

Though the venue is not licensed to carry<br />

out a civil ceremony, it does allow for small<br />

religious ceremonies which can be held in<br />

the drawing room or dining room. Bharat<br />

arrivals with drummers and musicians are<br />

also welcome<br />

Large events:<br />

<strong>Wedding</strong>s are held inside a marquee that<br />

can accommodate 1000 guests. However<br />

the interiors and rooms of the house can be<br />

used by the couple for photo backdrops.<br />

Summer weddings: celebrations and<br />

private hire are available all year round<br />

but if you do choose the warmer summer<br />

months you’ll really get to take advantage<br />

of the beautiful grounds. The Walled<br />

Garden is a perfect backdrop to your<br />

portrait photos.<br />

Themed events:<br />

Couples have access to the venue two<br />

days before the event to decorate it and<br />

are welcome to visit whilst the set up is<br />

taking place. This is a rare opportunity for<br />

a venue of this calibre and makes planning<br />

and set up stress-free.<br />

CHECKLIST:<br />

Accommodation: Rooms are available on<br />

the day for couples to get ready.<br />

Facilities: Private hire available, external<br />

caterers allowed, ample parking<br />

Licence: There is currently no license for<br />

civil ceremonies. Hire is available until 1am<br />

Monday to Saturday and until midnight on<br />

Sundays.<br />

Turvey House,<br />

Turvey, Bedfordshire, MK43 8EL<br />

www.turveyhouse.co.uk


HOUNSLOW, WEST LONDON<br />

CHISWICKHOUSE<br />

AND GARDENS<br />

Beautiful Georgian house surrounded by ornate gardens<br />

Why you’ll love it:<br />

A truly elegant experience, Chiswick House<br />

offers a classic English fairytale backdrop<br />

to the most romantic day of your life.<br />

Combining English characteristics with<br />

Italian architecture, it is a building that<br />

offers charm and beauty with its grand and<br />

artistic interiors.<br />

Asian weddings are popular at Chiswick<br />

House and the team are accustomed to<br />

meeting the needs of cultural ceremonies.<br />

Capacity and space wise you can design<br />

your wedding day to suit your needs,<br />

using different rooms for different aspects<br />

of the celebrations. Chiswick House<br />

itself can host up to 90 guests for a civil<br />

ceremony and 120 for drinks and canapés<br />

across the ornately decorated galleries<br />

and neighbouring Garden. Chiswick<br />

House is available to hire Thursday to<br />

Saturday. The Conservatory can host up<br />

to 100 guests for a civil ceremony and<br />

150 guests for a reception overlooking the<br />

stunning Italian Garden and is available<br />

to hire Monday – Sunday. Or for summer<br />

weddings you can hold your event inside<br />

The Burlington Pavilion which can host<br />

dinner and dancing for up to 220 guests<br />

from April to September.<br />

Religious blessings and ceremonies can<br />

also take place alfresco and a special<br />

place is amidst the lush greenery of the<br />

rarest collection of Camellia flowers in the<br />

country, offering a fairytale settling like<br />

no other. For indoor ceremonies a popular<br />

spot is inside the Domed Saloon in the<br />

presence of up to 92 guests followed by a<br />

toast to the happy couple in the splendid<br />

velvet rooms, surrounded by 18th Century<br />

art treasures. While your guests indulge<br />

in pre-dinner drinks, slip away to enjoy<br />

some time with your partner and take<br />

your wedding portraits. Your photographer<br />

will be spoilt for choice. Guests are free to<br />

wander at leisure on Chiswick’s beautiful<br />

lawns, admire the lake and take in the<br />

classical statues, sphinxes and urns.<br />

Chiswick House’s Event Manager is always<br />

on the phone or email to answer your<br />

questions in the build-up to your wedding<br />

so you’ll never feel alone; just happy you’ve<br />

chosen such a remarkable place that will<br />

best suit your needs.<br />

CHECKLIST:<br />

Maximum capacity: Up to 250 inside the<br />

Burlington Pavilion<br />

Facilities: Gardens, choice of spaces,<br />

approved suppliers<br />

Chiswick House and Gardens<br />

Burlington Lane, London W4 2RP<br />

Tel: 0203 141 3350<br />

www.chiswickhouseandgardens.org.uk


VENUES<br />

DEVON<br />

MOORLAND<br />

GARDEN<br />

HOTEL<br />

Picturesque country hotel on the edge of Dartmoor National Park<br />

Why you’ll love it:<br />

Nestled within an area of outstanding<br />

natural beauty, Moorland Garden Hotel is<br />

a dream location for a romantic wedding,<br />

made even more special when you opt for<br />

exclusive hire, allowing you to enjoy nine<br />

acres of private land all to yourself.<br />

A popular choice for civil ceremonies,<br />

wedding breakfasts and evening receptions,<br />

Moorland is a destination venue that also<br />

makes for a special place to start of your<br />

married life.<br />

The friendly team are experts in advising<br />

on how to get the most of the space. Guests<br />

usually gather in the Dartmoor bar before<br />

the ceremony where they can have a<br />

welcome drink before they are then led<br />

through to the ceremony room, while the<br />

bride awaits in her bridal suite ready to<br />

make her grand entrance.<br />

After the ceremony a drinks reception<br />

can be enjoyed in the bar or outside in<br />

the venue’s picture perfect grounds. The<br />

wedding breakfast is typically served in<br />

the lower ballroom and afterwards guests<br />

can move through to the Mayflower room<br />

where there is a bar where evening guests<br />

can join you. It’s a great backdrop for your<br />

cake cutting before lights are dimmed for<br />

the dancefloor. Many couples opt to have<br />

an evening buffet and music can be played<br />

until midnight.<br />

During the planning Laura Braithwaite<br />

(<strong>Wedding</strong> and Event Manager) or<br />

Karen Thompson (<strong>Wedding</strong> and Events<br />

Coordinator) liaise with the couple while<br />

the hotel’s reception team will arrange<br />

guest bedrooms. A complimentary menu<br />

tasting for the couple is provided and there<br />

are monthly informal wedding open days<br />

at the hotel so couples can drop in with<br />

friends and family.<br />

Aside from traditional three course meals<br />

the hotel can also arrange for afternoon<br />

teas, hog roasts and BBQs which are ideal<br />

in the summer when the grounds are<br />

at their most impressive. If the outdoor<br />

appeals to you then you can also request<br />

a marquee in the hotel’s grounds. Lawn<br />

games and a bouncy castle for the kids are<br />

also popular choices for summer weddings<br />

when the beautiful Devon coastline and<br />

countryside really comes into its own.<br />

THINGS TO DO:<br />

Getting married in Devon is a great excuse<br />

to have a destination wedding where your<br />

guests can enjoy a minibreak as well as<br />

celebrate your nuptials. In the vicinity are<br />

a number of attractions that are ideal for<br />

family visits such as historic Buckland Abbey<br />

(www.nationaltrust.org.uk/buckland-abbey)<br />

and the fun National Marine Aquarium<br />

(www.national-aquarium.co.uk).<br />

For more ideas go to www.visitdevon.co.uk.<br />

www.moorlandgardenhotel.co.uk<br />

CHECKLIST:<br />

Accommodation:<br />

170 – 200 or marquee for 300<br />

Facilities: 44 hotel bedrooms, licence for<br />

outdoor ceremonies, nine acres of land and<br />

gardens, master of ceremonies, exclusive hire<br />

Moorland Garden Hotel<br />

Yelverton, Nr Plymouth Devon PL20 6DA<br />

www.moorlandgardenhotel.co.uk


THE GROVE<br />

Flexibility:<br />

Spaces can be adjoined to meet<br />

your needs, preferences and<br />

capacity. Some rooms have<br />

recently been refurbished and all<br />

come with built in lighting. The<br />

experienced wedding planning<br />

team are on hand to advise how<br />

best to use the spaces to meet<br />

your needs.<br />

The Lowdown:<br />

This magnificent 18th-century former<br />

home of the Earls of Clarendon is set in<br />

300 acres of Hertfordshire countryside<br />

and is one of the most iconic wedding<br />

venues in the UK. There are a selection of<br />

unique rooms and spaces to choose from<br />

– for grand weddings there is the Amber<br />

complete with an elegant terrace opening<br />

onto stunning formal gardens. Or for<br />

something a little more intimate, there’s<br />

the mansion with exquisite rooms boasting<br />

18th century features, large windows, high<br />

ceilings and breathtaking views.<br />

The hotel also boasts 215 luxury guest<br />

rooms, three bars, three distinctive<br />

restaurants, an 18-hole championship golf<br />

course, an award-winning spa, fitness and<br />

exercise studios, a kid’s club and a Walled<br />

Garden, complete with two tennis courts<br />

an outdoor pool, croquet lawn, kitchen<br />

garden and beach, making it more than<br />

just a wedding venue, but a destination.<br />

Asian couples:<br />

The Grove’s wedding team have a great<br />

understanding of Asian ceremonies and<br />

the cultural requirements that come as<br />

standard. The venue hosts up to 30 Asian<br />

weddings every year and has a partnership<br />

with luxury caterers Madhu’s.<br />

Privacy:<br />

Exclusive hire of the complete venue can be<br />

arranged, so if you would like to have your<br />

own private celebrations at a venue guests<br />

can truly unwind in, The Grove is the ideal<br />

choice. If you prefer not to go for exclusive<br />

hire, you can still feel like you are in your<br />

own special location as there is a separate<br />

entrance for wedding guests.<br />

Alfresco celebrations:<br />

There are extensive grounds at the Grove<br />

that you and your guests can enjoy as part<br />

of your Big Day. Couples often utilise the<br />

formal gardens for a variety of uses - and<br />

wedding reception drinks can also be<br />

served outside.<br />

CHECKLIST:<br />

Accommodation: Available on site, including<br />

beautiful suites ideal for your First Night.<br />

Facilities: Adding to the experience are a<br />

range of facilities that you can enjoy such as<br />

a spa, golf course and fitness suite.<br />

Licence: The venue holds a license for<br />

civil ceremonies. Hire is available until 1am<br />

Monday to Saturday and until midnight on<br />

Sundays.<br />

The Grove, Chandler’s Cross<br />

Hertfordshire WD3 4TG<br />

www.thegrove.co.uk


V ENUES<br />

ADDINGTON<br />

PALACE<br />

The Lowdown:<br />

With a history of romance dating back<br />

to 1776, Addington is the perfect venue<br />

in which to start your own majestic love<br />

story. Tucked into 163-acres of landscaped<br />

gardens, Addington is a real life Palace<br />

where kings and queens have dined and is<br />

considered Surrey’s premier Asian wedding<br />

venue. The estate has two wonderfully<br />

versatile spaces; the Palace itself and<br />

the Royal Marquee, both of which offer<br />

a fantastic setting for weddings. Popular<br />

with Hollywood film crews, the venue is<br />

breathtakingly beautiful and as you drive<br />

up to its grand white façade you’ll feel as<br />

though you are stepping on the sets of a<br />

fairytale.<br />

Grand setting:<br />

Inside Addington Palace you’ll find the<br />

exquisite The Great Hall which boasts a<br />

feature chandelier and imposing fireplace<br />

that provides a superb backdrop for your<br />

wedding photos. Ideal for weddings with<br />

a regal theme, the Palace is beautifully<br />

decorated throughout and you’ll no doubt<br />

enjoy feeling like you are the king and<br />

queen for the day in such a stately place.<br />

Flexible spaces:<br />

If you wish to wed inside the Palace there<br />

are a choice of spaces, each with their<br />

own charm such as the airy Library and<br />

Lecture Room which offers views over the<br />

immaculate gardens and The Great Hall<br />

(up to 150 guests). Many couples choose to<br />

hold their day in the Palace and then the<br />

main evening reception meal inside the<br />

Royal Banqueting Suite, also known as<br />

their Royal Marquee.<br />

Large capacities:<br />

Addington Palace’s Royal Marquee<br />

provides a truly majestic setting for large<br />

wedding, accommodating up to 900 guests.<br />

It feels like a part of the palace thanks to<br />

its décor and attention to detail with stateof-the-art<br />

facilities, it’s own kitchen, bar<br />

and toilets.<br />

Cultural celebrations:<br />

Addington Palace works with expert<br />

Asian caterers who specialise in Punjabi,<br />

Gujarati, Muslim, Sri Lankan and Bengali<br />

cuisines so can recommend the perfect<br />

suppliers to cater your special day. The<br />

team are experienced in holding Asian<br />

weddings so can advise how to use the<br />

space to suit your needs.<br />

Minimoon experience:<br />

Addington Palace makes for a wonderful<br />

venue in which to stay over for your first<br />

night of married life. After the celebrations<br />

you can retire to your own luxury<br />

chambers giving you a chance to enjoy<br />

the facilities again in the morning, before<br />

you head off on honeymoon from nearby<br />

Gatwick Airport.<br />

CHECKLIST:<br />

Accommodation: Available on site for 36<br />

guests with luxury suite for the bride and<br />

groom<br />

Facilities: Luxury Royal marquee, Asian<br />

caterers, ample parking, country club<br />

Licence: Civil ceremonies can be held on site<br />

Gravel Hill, Addington Village,<br />

Croydon, Surrey, CR0 5BB<br />

www.addington-palace.co.uk


XXXXXXXXXXX<br />

LONDON PARK LANE<br />

SHERATON<br />

GRAND<br />

Why you’ll love it:<br />

One of London’s premier locations for<br />

weddings and events, the Sheraton<br />

Grand London Park Lane is renowned<br />

for its elegant Art Deco architecture and<br />

exemplary service. Perfectly positioned in<br />

the heart of Mayfair, opposite Green Park<br />

and moments away from Buckingham<br />

Palace, it houses one of the city’s<br />

most iconic grade II listed ballrooms.<br />

Thoughtfully restored to truly capture<br />

the essence of the 1920s, this generous<br />

space creates a stylish backdrop, with high<br />

ceilings, sweeping staircases, ornate crystal<br />

lighting and elaborate gold and mirrored<br />

detailing.<br />

Exclusive hire is available and there<br />

is a choice of three rooms<br />

with varying capacities to<br />

accommodate your needs.<br />

The Grade II listed Art<br />

Deco Ballroom is the<br />

largest space and can<br />

accommodate 440 for<br />

a banquet, 360 for a<br />

dinner and dance or<br />

1200 for a reception.<br />

Other rooms are The<br />

Tudor Rose and Oak<br />

Room. The Smith & Whistle<br />

Bar and Mercante Restaurant,<br />

both of which can be hired out to come<br />

with outdoor terraces allowing you to<br />

extend your celebrations alfresco.<br />

The lavish experience begins the moment<br />

your guests arrive, through the private<br />

entrance of the gilded Silver Gallery on<br />

a red carpet. With its stylised murals<br />

and sculptural metalwork, the sweeping<br />

staircases lead guests to a vast mezzanine,<br />

ideal for drinks and canapé receptions.<br />

From here, they get their first glimpse<br />

of the stunning ballroom below, with<br />

its maple sprung dancefloor, classic<br />

waterfall lighting and original sunburst<br />

cornicing. The three levels offer a wealth<br />

of entertaining options and photo<br />

opportunities,<br />

ensuring a<br />

memorable day that<br />

is both personal and<br />

bespoke.<br />

You’ll be guided<br />

from the outset by the<br />

hotel’s dedicated wedding<br />

planner and to make your<br />

day extra special the bride and<br />

groom can spend their first night at the<br />

hotel’s beautiful Park View honeymoon<br />

suite, also a perfect place in which to get<br />

ready.<br />

CHECKLIST:<br />

Accommodation: Up to 1000 or reception<br />

and for 440 banquet<br />

Facilities: Staffed cloakroom, garage parking,<br />

choice of spaces, approved caterers list<br />

Sheraton Grand London Park Lane,<br />

Piccadilly, London, W1J 7BX<br />

Tel: 0207 290 7294<br />

www.mayfairweddingaddress.com


VENUES<br />

CENTRAL LONDON<br />

TWO TEMPLE PLACE<br />

Ornately decorated neo-Gothic mansion by the River Thames<br />

Why you’ll love it:<br />

Two Temple Place combines the grandeur<br />

of a London mansion with the intimacy<br />

of a private home. The interiors are<br />

adorned with marble, gilding and stained<br />

glass creating an opulent setting for any<br />

celebration, while the warm mahogany<br />

wood panelling gives a cosy and homely<br />

feel to the space. With a variety of<br />

stunning rooms, exclusive hire of the house<br />

enables you to create a truly magical and<br />

unforgettable experience for you and your<br />

guests.<br />

philanthropy. The dedicated Events team<br />

along with their experienced approved<br />

suppliers will guide you through every<br />

aspect of the planning process, ensuring<br />

complete peace of mind on the day.<br />

Nestled in the heart of London overlooking<br />

the River Thames, the fantastic location<br />

and stunning interiors of Two Temple<br />

Place make it the perfect venue choice for<br />

couples looking for a unique city wedding<br />

that all their guests will adore.<br />

With three licensed ceremony rooms<br />

available, whether you’re looking for an<br />

intimate ceremony for 30, a lavish wedding<br />

breakfast with dancing for 120 guests or a<br />

standing reception for up to 300 the house<br />

can adapt to suit your requirements. For<br />

those guests wishing to dance the night<br />

away a late licence is available on request<br />

until 4am.<br />

Two Temple Place is owned by The Bulldog<br />

Trust and all the income generated<br />

through private events supports the<br />

charity in its work to promote culture and<br />

CHECKLIST:<br />

Maximum capacity:<br />

seated 120, standing 300<br />

Facilities: Exclusive hire, three licenced<br />

ceremony rooms<br />

Two Temple Place,<br />

London, WC2R 3BD<br />

Tel: 0207 836 3715<br />

www.twotempleplace.org


INTRODUCING<br />

THE ARIANA GROUP…<br />

Two venues. The same five-star service. Simply pick your location…<br />

Ariana Banqueting Hall (London)<br />

Need-to-know<br />

Capacity: 800 seated<br />

Car parking: 400 spaces<br />

Facilities: in-house catering or bring your own,<br />

safe play area for children, mood-lighting, bespoke<br />

layouts, and garden<br />

Ariana Banqueting Hall<br />

North London Business Park,<br />

Oakleigh Road South London, N11 1GN<br />

t: 0208 368 4716 • www.arianabanqueting.co.uk<br />

Whether you’re<br />

having one<br />

function or<br />

several, it’s likely<br />

that for your<br />

main reception you’ll need space to<br />

accommodate all the guests you’re keen<br />

to feed as part of your celebrations.<br />

Ariana Banqueting Hall in North<br />

London ticks all the boxes: it has all<br />

the practicalities alongside care and<br />

attention from an experienced team<br />

and can seat up to 800 guests for a<br />

lavish sit-down wedding.<br />

Located on private landscaped<br />

gardens, surrounded by green hills and<br />

lined with trees, it offers a new kind<br />

of banqueting experience making a<br />

welcome change from the usual urban<br />

venues on busy high streets.<br />

Ariana Banqueting Hall opened<br />

to much fanfare in March 2014<br />

and has developed a reputation for<br />

understanding the needs of all cultural<br />

weddings. They welcome, fires for<br />

Hindu weddings and for their Muslim<br />

clients offer a prayer room. It’s also<br />

possible to arrange segregated seating<br />

areas, the team is happy to arrange the<br />

layout of the space to suit the needs of<br />

every couple.<br />

Experience the charm<br />

Arriving at Ariana is part of its appeal<br />

and is an experience all your guests<br />

will appreciate. The entrance is via<br />

a private gated estate where guests<br />

are met by security and parking<br />

attendants to ensure the smooth<br />

running of getting everyone inside on<br />

time.<br />

The space itself consists of a grand<br />

hall that can accommodate up to 800<br />

guests and a luxurious conservatory<br />

that leads onto a pretty private garden;<br />

an ideal spot to have your portrait<br />

photographs taken. Decorations are<br />

welcome and whatever your theme,<br />

the team here can arrange it for you,<br />

or recommend one of their experienced<br />

suppliers. So whether you want fresh<br />

flowers in every corner or love the idea<br />

of themed props, consider it done.<br />

VIP experience<br />

Ariana also offers a bridal room; a<br />

sanctuary for the bride where she can<br />

have her hair and make-up done or<br />

simply use it to relax in and escape to<br />

during the day. The five star service<br />

doesn’t stop there. The venue’s<br />

in-house wedding coordinators are<br />

committed to ensuring all your needs<br />

are looked after every step of the way,<br />

from your initial booking, right up<br />

until the Big Day. This could be having<br />

someone to talk to, offering advice and<br />

support, as well as sourcing the finest<br />

service providers so you don’t have to<br />

worry about a thing.


VENUE<br />

Ariana Gardens (Essex)<br />

Make your wedding dreams a reality.<br />

Ariana Gardens is an enchanted Manor<br />

House nestled in the Essex countryside<br />

and it’s the perfect venue for couples<br />

who want to get married in London<br />

without needing to worry about space, as<br />

Group Director Thufayel Ahmed explains:<br />

“When we opened Ariana Banqueting<br />

Hall in 2014 we filled a gap in the market,<br />

offering couples a new kind of experience<br />

for large weddings and we used our<br />

experience there to create our second<br />

venue Ariana Gardens. Some couples hire<br />

both for different functions and it’s great<br />

to be able to share in their special day in<br />

such an important way.”<br />

Designing your day<br />

The building has two floors and<br />

both can be incorporated into your<br />

celebrations. For example, you could<br />

host a drinks reception, entertainment<br />

and an afternoon tea on the ground<br />

floor, while upstairs can be transformed<br />

into the dining space for the evening,<br />

allowing you to create two very different<br />

atmospheres, giving your wedding the<br />

wow factor. As the rooms are a blank<br />

canvas you can decorate them to your<br />

own tastes and this is where the fun really<br />

begins. The team has in-house caterers<br />

but also welcome you to bring your own.<br />

The great outdoors<br />

The focal point of the venue is of course<br />

its beautiful, spacious gardens.<br />

The Main Hall has its own conservatory<br />

overlooking private gardens that you and<br />

your guests can enjoy. In the summer<br />

it becomes the perfect backdrop for<br />

serving drinks alfresco, taking your<br />

photographs, and even a bouncy castle<br />

to keep your younger guests entertained.<br />

All bookings include exclusive hire of<br />

the whole venue, so you can be assured<br />

that everyone will be safe whether they<br />

are inside or out. There’s also a covered<br />

shisha bar which is popular with guests<br />

who want to relax in the evening after the<br />

meal.<br />

Need-to-know<br />

Capacity: 650 seated<br />

Car parking: 300 spaces<br />

Facilities: Licensed for civil ceremonies, bar<br />

area, bride’s room kitchen, full segregation<br />

available, in-house wedding planner, lighting &<br />

AC, prayer room, security and garden.<br />

Ariana Gardens, Ivy Barn Lane,<br />

Margaretting, Chelmsford, Essex CM4 0EW<br />

T: 01277 356 108 • www.arianagardens.co.uk<br />

Created to fit your budget<br />

Whether you opt for Ariana Gardens or<br />

Ariana Banqueting Hall it’s refreshing to<br />

know that neither venue operates set<br />

packages. The team here believes in<br />

flexibility and will work within your budget.<br />

Whether it’s minimal or extravagant, you’ll<br />

get to enjoy your dream wedding exactly<br />

the way you want.


VENUE<br />

FOCUS:<br />

THE ROYAL<br />

NATIONAL HOTEL<br />

Luxury & flexibility in the heart of Central London<br />

Getting married in the greatest<br />

city in the world is a dream<br />

for many couples. London has<br />

history, charm and character<br />

but it’s hard to find a venue<br />

that has car parking and blank canvas<br />

spaces; something The Royal National<br />

Hotel is proud to offer.<br />

THE EXPERIENCE<br />

A unique and lively hotel in the heart of<br />

Russell Square, the Royal National Hotel<br />

is one of the largest of the Imperial London<br />

Hotels Group and offers several event<br />

spaces, all of which are licensed to hold<br />

weddings. There are 1630 modern, spacious<br />

bedrooms and suites, ensuring your guests<br />

have somewhere to stay that’s comfortable<br />

and easy for them on the wedding day since<br />

they won’t have to travel far .<br />

There are also two restaurants, a pub<br />

with a garden, Bloom’s cafe which is a<br />

shisha bar and coffee shop on-site, making<br />

it a destination hotel where your guest’s<br />

needs are fully looked after.<br />

<strong>Wedding</strong> packages include the event<br />

space, catering, your wedding ceremony<br />

plus overnight accommodation for your<br />

guests. And though it’s a public hotel,<br />

guests can arrive via a courtyard which<br />

can be dressed with décor to create a<br />

personalised welcome.


VENUE<br />

THE EVENT SPACES<br />

There are an impressive 10 stylish suites<br />

(four more opening in 2023) that are fully<br />

flexible and can be adapted according to the<br />

size of your wedding, with a capacity of up<br />

to 700 guests, though a more comfortable<br />

number of 550 is recommended as it allows<br />

guests to have dinner and a dancefloor in<br />

the Galleon Suite. Rooms can be divided<br />

and there are smaller theatre-style rooms<br />

for 40-60 guests and a grand Windsor room<br />

that can hold 400 guests for a standing<br />

reception.<br />

All of these rooms have grand chandeliers<br />

but are also blank canvas spaces. The Royal<br />

National provides a fantastic backdrop to<br />

creating your dream just the way you want it<br />

with theming and props. Whether you’d like<br />

to create a traditional colourful Indian setting<br />

with a mandap or a winter wonderland with<br />

mood lighting, the opportunities are endless,<br />

exclusive hire is also available. The hotel<br />

provides audio/visual in-house and the team<br />

can create backdrops, videoscreens, music,<br />

lights and audio.<br />

THE BIG DAY<br />

The team will look after every aspect of<br />

your day including delicious catering;<br />

with seasonal menus, canapés and light<br />

refreshments to sustain your guests<br />

during the day. Or if you prefer to bring<br />

in your preferred caterer, the hotel has a<br />

separate banqueting kitchen that can be<br />

hired with dry hire for external catering<br />

providers. Access is from 7am to 1am,<br />

though you can apply for a late license<br />

to extend your festivities. The Royal<br />

National Hotel is conveniently poised<br />

for discovering all the iconic sights and<br />

attractions that London has to offer too.<br />

Some couples enjoy taking their portraits<br />

against local landmarks while guests are<br />

treated to a private sightseeing bus tour<br />

which is especially appreciated by guests<br />

who are travelling from abroad.<br />

VENUE CHECKLIST:<br />

Accessible for public transport: Yes<br />

Onsite parking: Yes<br />

Catering: Internal or external<br />

catering welcome<br />

Spaces: Flexible, blank canvas<br />

Capacity: Up to 700<br />

Accommodation: Onsite<br />

A/V: Provided in-house<br />

Support: In-house planners<br />

Royal National Hotel, 38-51 Bedford Way, London WC1H 0DG • T: 0207 637 2488 • www.imperialhotels.co.uk


SWISSÔTEL<br />

THE BOSPHORUS, ISTANBUL<br />

Travelling abroad for<br />

your nuptials has never<br />

been easier. <strong>Wedding</strong><br />

venues around the<br />

world are now more<br />

experienced than ever in delivering<br />

dream days with all the traditions<br />

and details you’d expect; but there’s<br />

one hotel that’s caught our eye for<br />

going above and beyond when it<br />

comes to wedding planning and<br />

execution: the five-star Swissôtel<br />

The Bosphorus in Istanbul.<br />

Located on the picturesque banks<br />

of The Bosphorus, it’s nestled in<br />

a 63-acre private resort amidst<br />

gardens and hilly forests, making it<br />

a fairytale location with the added<br />

charm and culture of Turkish<br />

hospitality at its finest.<br />

Tying the knot in Turkey<br />

Every couple desires flexibility to<br />

have their wedding their way and<br />

this is something the team excels at.<br />

They deliver an experience that goes<br />

far beyond expectation and it starts<br />

with the location of your ceremony.<br />

Couples can either wed inside or<br />

outside; both options are equally<br />

as stunning. For outdoor summer<br />

weddings, hold your ceremony in<br />

Sultan Park which can be dressed<br />

and decorated to match your theme.<br />

For reception drinks and other<br />

wedding functions, a popular spot<br />

is the Swiss Living Terrace. Here,<br />

your guests can enjoy poolside<br />

activities against Istanbul’s striking<br />

city skyline.<br />

For a more formal indoor setting<br />

perhaps for an evening reception<br />

meal, book the exquisite Fuji<br />

Ballroom and Asuka Hall, which<br />

both cater for larger capacities – in<br />

fact, the hotel can cater for functions<br />

for up to 1000 guests so don’t be<br />

shy with your guest list numbers,<br />

though intimate celebrations are<br />

also welcome. In addition to the<br />

ballroom and hall which is popular<br />

for henna nights, there is a number<br />

of smaller function rooms that can<br />

also be hired if required.


DESTINATION WEDDING VENUE<br />

Getting Big Day ready<br />

The wedding packages at Swissôtel<br />

The Bosphorus aren’t you’re typical<br />

options, every aspect takes the<br />

couple into consideration; book<br />

here and you can expect to feel like<br />

royalty throughout your stay. You’ll<br />

have access to two rooms for you and<br />

your families to get ready in. The<br />

hotel also has a spa, hairdresser and<br />

beauty salon and as a bride, you’ll<br />

receive discounts so you can rest<br />

assured you’re getting a good deal<br />

while having your make-up done<br />

by professionals. Another generous<br />

offering from the hotel is that your<br />

wedding cake is a gift from them<br />

and you can expect to receive the<br />

finest, picture-perfect tiered sponge<br />

to match your theme.<br />

Destination celebration<br />

One of the pleasures of having a<br />

wedding abroad is that friends and<br />

family are able to enjoy their own<br />

holiday and everyone that is invited<br />

to a wedding in Istanbul will want a<br />

chance to enjoy the city while they’re<br />

here. The hotel is an excellent base<br />

to explore Istanbul before and after<br />

the wedding and you could also<br />

arrange day trip activities to keep<br />

them busy. There are 566 spacious<br />

rooms and 63 luxury suites ranging<br />

from studios to three-bedroom<br />

suites so families with children<br />

can feel reassured they have the<br />

facilities they need.<br />

A feast fit for royalty<br />

As part of your wedding package the very best catering in<br />

the city is provided and every guest will enjoy five-courses:<br />

a starter, hot appetizer, main course, dessert and wedding<br />

cake. And with the newly opened Madhu’s restaurant<br />

Madhu’s Istanbul on site there’s also the option of booking<br />

additional meals there for pre and post wedding functions.<br />

Find out more about the award-winning catering<br />

company’s new venture on the next page.<br />

The wedding team at Swissôtel The Bosphorus are on<br />

hand throughout the planning stages and you’re invited<br />

to visit for a tasting with the chef and to discuss all the<br />

arrangements ahead of the day. Then leave the rest to<br />

them – all you need to do is look forward to spending your<br />

wedding in one of the most luxurious hotels in the world.<br />

Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Istanbul<br />

Vişnezade, Acısu Sokaği No:19,<br />

Beşiktaş, İstanbul, 34357, Turkey<br />

e:event.Istanbul@swissotel.com<br />

www.swissotelthebosphorus.com


Chairman of Madhu’s Sanjay Anand MBE with General<br />

Manager of Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Ugur Talayhan<br />

182 | ASIANA WEDDING


FOOD<br />

INTRODUCING…<br />

MADHU’S ISTANBUL<br />

The first international restaurant from the UK’s leading Indian food pioneers<br />

The Indian catering industry<br />

in the UK wouldn’t be what<br />

it is without Madhu’s. For<br />

over 30 years Chairman<br />

Sanjay Anand MBE, along<br />

with his son Director of Madhu’s Arjun<br />

and their team have set the standard<br />

for wedding catering. Their restaurant<br />

portfolio includes their legendary Madhu’s<br />

in Southall, providing fine dining services<br />

at The Grove in Hertfordshire, Madhu’s<br />

of Mayfair and collaborations with<br />

department stores like Harvey Nichols<br />

and Harrods. Their reputation has long<br />

preceded them and now it’s taken them<br />

to new shores as they establish their<br />

first Indian dining experience at the<br />

most luxurious hotel in Istanbul, Turkey;<br />

Swissôtel The Bosphorus. <strong>Asiana</strong> <strong>Wedding</strong><br />

Magazine travelled to Istanbul to find out<br />

more about their exciting new culinary<br />

adventure…<br />

Chairman Sanjay Anand and<br />

his son Arjun spent lockdown<br />

expanding the Madhu’s<br />

brands into the international<br />

restaurant market<br />

EXPANDING A LEGACY<br />

A tale of food, passion and spices!<br />

You never know what’s around the corner.<br />

When the world went into lockdown during<br />

the coronavirus pandemic and weddings<br />

were put on hold, Sanjay and Arjun finally<br />

has a moment to pause, but time off wasn’t<br />

their style. So, when they received a call<br />

from the General Manager of Swissôtel The<br />

Bosphorus, Ugur Talayhan who they had<br />

previously worked with for their Sheraton<br />

Skyline Heathrow venture, there was no time<br />

like the present to visit an old friend. It turned<br />

out to be no ordinary trip. Ugur invited the<br />

entrepreneurs to open a Madhu’s restaurant<br />

within the grounds of the most luxurious<br />

hotel in the city. Unbeknown to them when<br />

they boarded that flight from London, their<br />

business was about to change forever as they<br />

began planning what has now become their<br />

international flagship restaurant.<br />

Madhu’s Istanbul isn’t just a restaurant it’s<br />

a five-star luxury dining experience where<br />

everything from the décor to the drinks,<br />

music, fragrance and staff uniforms have<br />

been carefully curated to transport visitors to<br />

an extraordinary space where the food and<br />

hospitality are in a league of their own.<br />

Planning the décor and finding and<br />

training a new team for their new restaurant<br />

were major considerations, but the biggest<br />

challenge of expanding Madhu’s abroad has<br />

been finding a solution for the all-important<br />

spices. Though Istanbul is known for its<br />

thriving spice markets, the level and exact<br />

flavours of spice found in the region didn’t<br />

match up to the specific tastes that are<br />

synonymous with Madhu’s.<br />

Sanjay explains: “Arjun and I visited Istanbul<br />

on five occasions in search of spices but what<br />

we found was that the flavour strength was<br />

only 50% of what we use. So we had to make<br />

a decision, do we adapt our flavours or do we<br />

bring them from home, of course, we opted<br />

for the latter as we will never compromise on<br />

flavour!” All the spices for Madhu’s Istanbul<br />

are sent over from the UK and like at all their<br />

restaurants, are hand-ground to maintain<br />

the best and freshest flavour, including<br />

their signature garam masala which is a<br />

special house blend of 42 spices, exclusive<br />

to Madhu’s. This is a true testament to the<br />

commitment the brand has to authenticity<br />

and serving only the very best.


INSIDE MADHU’S ISTANBUL<br />

Discover the grand, brand-new restaurant<br />

Within a day of arriving in Istanbul on their<br />

initial fact-finding mission to see if it would be<br />

feasible to open a restaurant abroad, Sanjay<br />

and Arjun arranged meetings with architects so<br />

they could get an overview of what they could<br />

keep and what facilities they would need to put<br />

in themselves. Back home they drew up their<br />

plans and sent them to the team at Swissôtel The<br />

Bosphorus. Six months later work began on a 2.5<br />

million euro refurbishment and the once derelict<br />

yet beautiful space was transformed into a smart<br />

and sophisticated dining experience thanks to a<br />

leading architect who had previously designed<br />

restaurant projects for Nobu.


The restaurant seats 250 covers and for<br />

couples who hold their wedding events at<br />

Swissôtel The Bosphorus (see page 180 to find<br />

out more about getting married at the hotel,)<br />

there is an option of booking a group meal here.<br />

There’s also an outdoor terrace that holds 100<br />

guests and leads onto the picture-perfect Sultan<br />

Palace Gardens.<br />

Madhu’s Istanbul is open six days a week<br />

(closed Mondays) and serves between 5pm and<br />

2am with a separate bar menu that runs from<br />

11am to 2am. There’s also an attached Cognac<br />

Lounge and for smokers special storage for your<br />

cigars.<br />

For now, Madhu’s will focus on serving up<br />

the finest Indian cuisine in Istanbul, but in the<br />

future, they hope to expand into catering so that<br />

couples marrying at the Swissôtel The Bosphorus<br />

can finally have the Indian feast they want.<br />

Arjun reveals: “Until now the city hasn’t had the<br />

Indian food offering that many people want for<br />

their weddings and events. Last year there was<br />

a wedding here where 13 chefs were flown in<br />

from India just so the couple could eat traditional<br />

food. In time we will take on this responsibility<br />

ensuring couples never face this problem again,<br />

but for now we’re settling into our new home,<br />

enjoying meeting our new regular patrons and<br />

expanding our reputation on a global scale that<br />

we never imagined could be possible.<br />

FOOD


Madhu’s Head Chef Amandeep Singh<br />

is overseeing the menu in Istanbul<br />

A Taste of Madhu’s Istanbul<br />

How the team are transforming<br />

eating out in the Turkish city<br />

What makes Madhu’s presence in<br />

Istanbul so important is that there are<br />

only limited places to enjoy Indian<br />

food in the city. Madhu’s Istanbul is<br />

the only restaurant to offer authentic<br />

Indian fine dining, bringing a new<br />

offering to discerning diners, many of<br />

whom are trying desi food for the first<br />

time. Sanjay explains: “It’s taken us<br />

by surprise that so many people are<br />

unfamiliar with our customs so what<br />

we’re offering them is groundbreaking,<br />

not just the flavours and dishes - but<br />

the whole experience of how we<br />

eat. For example in Turkey, they are<br />

familiar with lamb chops as a main<br />

meal but they have never had it as a<br />

starter, cooked how we do it and it’s<br />

been rewarding introducing them to<br />

our customs. But it’s not just locals<br />

we’re attracting. The Swissôtel The<br />

Bosphorus is home to some of the<br />

biggest conferences in the city and<br />

delegates visiting from abroad to<br />

attend events are finding solace and<br />

comfort in joining us for dinner and<br />

genuinely enjoying their meals.”<br />

International visitors to Istanbul<br />

can now feel relieved that they have<br />

somewhere to go to that they know<br />

they can trust. Arjun explains: “It’s<br />

rare to have Indian weddings held in<br />

Istanbul and similarly it’s not a popular<br />

choice with travellers from India<br />

because they don’t feel as though<br />

they’ll be able to find food they’ll like.<br />

And though Turkish food is amongst<br />

the most delicious cuisines in the world<br />

sometimes when you’re away only<br />

home flavours will do and if you’re<br />

not guaranteed good food, it can stop<br />

you from visiting somewhere. Since<br />

opening, we’ve had a steady stream of<br />

Indian diners who all confess to us how<br />

happy they are to finally have some<br />

authentic cuisine!”<br />

You’ll find dishes on the menu at<br />

Madhu’s Istanbul that you won’t find<br />

anywhere else. Arjun explains: “Each<br />

of our restaurants is a guaranteed<br />

gastronomic experience. We like to<br />

take inspiration from our surroundings<br />

and this inspires the décor and the<br />

menu, so of course, we’ve introduced<br />

a Turkish twist at Madhu’s Istanbul.<br />

Bespoke dishes include kadak calamari<br />

which is calamari tossed in fragrant<br />

cumin and chilli.


SAMPLE MENU: MADHU’S OF ISTANBUL<br />

The menu at the restaurant offers a wide number of dining choices including meat,<br />

fish and vegetarian with the classic Indian/Kenyan flavours Madhu’s are known for.<br />

Here are some of the dishes and drinks you’ll find being served up…<br />

APPETIZERS<br />

Chilli paneer<br />

Aloo tikki<br />

Palak patta chaat<br />

Chilli and garlic prawns<br />

MAIN COURSES<br />

Boozi bafu<br />

Murgh makhani<br />

Masala fish<br />

Madhu’s signature Royal Thalis<br />

Dishes from the Robata Grill<br />

FOOD<br />

Devising these new dishes has been<br />

an exciting challenge for Madhu’s<br />

Head Chef Amandeep Singh who is<br />

responsible for training the staff for<br />

Madhu’s Istanbul which includes three<br />

chefs from India, working alongside<br />

the local Turkish sous chefs. The Indian<br />

chefs were hand-picked by Sanjay<br />

and the hotel’s Director of Food and<br />

Beverages who travelled to India<br />

together to interview chefs. Sanjay<br />

says: “<strong>Aut</strong>henticity and exceptionally<br />

high standards are central to Madhu’s<br />

philosophy but we could only deliver<br />

this by having the right team and we<br />

had to travel to find them. This is the<br />

very first time in our history spanning<br />

over four decades that we have shared<br />

our family recipes and placed this<br />

knowledge in the hands of someone<br />

else, but if we are to expand and grow<br />

we had to share our secrets and it’s a<br />

pleasure to know our food and brand<br />

are now going global.”<br />

RICE<br />

Lamb or vegetable biryani<br />

Chicken pilau<br />

Steamed rice<br />

BREADS<br />

Assorted naans<br />

(tandoori, peshwari, garlic)<br />

Lachedar paratha<br />

Tandoori roti<br />

DESSERTS<br />

Kulfi (traditional almond)<br />

Gajar ka halwa baklawa<br />

Gulab jaman<br />

Kheer rice<br />

DRINKS<br />

Wine list<br />

Signature cocktails<br />

Bosphorus refreshers<br />

Spirits, gin, rum and whiskies<br />

www.madhus.co.uk


Purveyors of<br />

PERFECTION<br />

When it comes to <strong>Aut</strong>hentic Punjabi dining<br />

expertise and experience look no further<br />

than Signature Banqueting<br />

Only the most passionate of caterers deserve to<br />

be part of your Big Day and no one understands<br />

and loves Punjabi food more than Signature<br />

Banqueting. Signature provides event and wedding<br />

catering services across the UK creating delicious,<br />

indulgent feasts that are bespoke for every couple’s needs.<br />

Whether you’re holding an intimate gathering or a large-scale<br />

celebration, they’ll design the complete experience, serving up a<br />

spread in style with crockery, cutlery, table settings and décor that<br />

creates a wow factor reception.<br />

Managing Director Prithpal Marway believes Signature’s<br />

success lies in their passion for throwing a great party with food at<br />

the heart: “Punjabi hospitality is all about warm and welcoming<br />

gestures, feeling positive, ensuring everyone is having a good<br />

time and that they’re eating! Our Punjabi cuisine is lovingly<br />

prepared by chefs that are foodies so we also serve fusions flavours,<br />

international food like Chinese and Lebanese as well as South<br />

Indian, so if you book us for several events, you can treat guests to<br />

all your favourite flavours from across the world.”<br />

Venues and Menus<br />

Signature Caterers are the approved<br />

caterers for over 50 leading wedding<br />

and event spaces across the UK<br />

including East Wintergarden in<br />

Canary Wharf, Hilton Waldorf Central<br />

London and North Mymms Park in<br />

Hertfordshire. You can either book<br />

them for catering at your venue of<br />

choice or let them help you find<br />

the perfect venue for you. Prithpal<br />

assures: “Whichever venue we’re<br />

working at, we always cook fresh on<br />

site which makes a huge difference<br />

in terms of how the food looks –<br />

the fresher it is the better it is. We<br />

also bring in our own tandoors and<br />

kitchen utensils to ensure quality and<br />

consistency.’<br />

Your wedding is managed by a<br />

dedicated Events Coordinator who’ll<br />

be with you every step of the way,<br />

guiding you with any decision-making<br />

and ensuring the process is smooth<br />

from start to finish.


PRESENTATION MATTERS<br />

Managing Director Prithpal Marway reveals how Signature Banqueting<br />

ensure your wedding catering hits the mark with every mouthful<br />

The food you serve at your wedding should be as pleasing tothe eye as it is to the palate.<br />

Presentation is key; the more mouthwatering your dishes look, the better they’ll taste. The<br />

more your guests enjoy the food, the more they’ll enjoy and remember the occasion, so<br />

make sure you set your guests up properly so they can fully succumb to the wonders of<br />

your wedding day.<br />

CATERING<br />

LIVE CHEFS<br />

At Signature Banqueting weoften use<br />

live chefs at our eventsas it enhances<br />

the whole dining experience. Guests<br />

love to see their food being prepared<br />

in front of them, especially as it<br />

guarantees that the food is fresh. We<br />

don’t just do this for the main meals;<br />

guests can also watch how we create<br />

our stunning canapés.<br />

QUALITY INGREDIENTS<br />

It’s a fact that what you put in your<br />

dishes will have an impact on the end<br />

result – wilting vegetables for example<br />

are never going to look appealing.<br />

We go one step further, as well as the<br />

main ingredients, we ensure the base<br />

ingredients are of an equal standard,<br />

like only using virgin oils, the highest<br />

quality, so our dishes look appealing<br />

and are delicious.<br />

FINER DETAILS<br />

Once dishes are completed that’s not<br />

the end. We also think about how we<br />

can add that extra something special<br />

that will make those who are eating our<br />

food, reach fortheir phone to Instagram<br />

what they’re about to tuck into! We<br />

employ ‘presentation chefs’ whose<br />

responsibility it is to ensure every<br />

dish has its finishing touches such as<br />

carving fruits into pretty flowers to add<br />

decorative features.<br />

APPETISING AESTHETIC<br />

One of the golden rules of good display<br />

is ensuring dishes the colours of the<br />

dish are curated. No one wants to see<br />

a spread of curries in brown sauces,<br />

it would all look the same. We ensure<br />

your menu is varied in terms of its<br />

ingredients and this may involve<br />

balancing it out with green vegetables<br />

and salads so the overall presentation is<br />

one guests want to tuck into.<br />

www.signature-banqueting.com


THE ART OF Celebrating<br />

Every couple has ideas for<br />

their dream day; from<br />

a picturesque venue<br />

to a carefully curated<br />

menu that features<br />

their favourite dishes and a fun<br />

party atmosphere; but they can’t<br />

do it alone. That’s where Chakra<br />

Events come in. Passion, creativity,<br />

and elegance are the key ingredients<br />

behind this award-winning catering<br />

and events company. The team have<br />

been delivering dream wedding<br />

experiences since 2011, in the UK and<br />

abroad, taking care of all the finer<br />

details.<br />

Though their exquisite food and<br />

catering are what originally built<br />

their reputation, the event planning<br />

side of Chakra is delivered with an<br />

equal level of five-star service. Arjun<br />

Varma, CEO of The Chakra Group<br />

explains: “Our team is passionate<br />

about creating the wedding<br />

celebration of your dreams. They can<br />

create elaborate mandaps, Bollywood<br />

theming, bespoke set designs, chillout<br />

zones and even pyrotechnics to<br />

complete the entertainment as well as<br />

taking care of lighting, AV and sound;<br />

and this can be done anywhere in the<br />

world.”<br />

The secret to a perfect wedding lies in the<br />

planning so let the experts at Chakra Events plan yours<br />

The Great British wedding venue<br />

Chakra Events have long-standing relationships<br />

with some of the most luxurious hotels in theUK.<br />

They’re accredited in London venues including<br />

The Rosewood Hotel, The Mandarin Oriental<br />

Hotel, The MontCalm and Brown’s Hotel as well<br />

as beautiful locations outside of the capital. With<br />

the UK experiencing longer warmer summers<br />

it’s meant there’s been a demand for couples<br />

seeking British venues that guests haven’t<br />

visited before which has led Chakra to work with<br />

a host of lavish and unique new venues such as<br />

Wilderness Reserve, Hinwick House, Hintlesham<br />

Hall, Euridge Manor and Capesthorne Hall.<br />

Making destination weddings accessible<br />

Chakra is one of the UK’s leading experts in<br />

planning, organising and delivering weddings<br />

abroad. They’ve hosted many memorable<br />

celebrations thanks to the partnerships they<br />

have with luxury hotels in Vienna, Istanbul,<br />

Versailles, Italy, and Monte Carlo.<br />

It’s much easier and more affordable than you<br />

may think to marry abroad as Arjun explains:<br />

“Destination weddings are not as expensive<br />

as they may sound, in fact, they provide good<br />

value for money. Marrying in the off-peak<br />

seasons such as April to June or September to<br />

November in Europe means you’ll get a great<br />

deal and wonderful weather so you can truly<br />

enjoy outdoor gardens and beachfront venues.<br />

And don’t forget, typically the guestlist for<br />

destination weddings are smaller than for a UK<br />

function. Rather than feeding 1000 guests, you<br />

may not know at a reception in the UK, you<br />

could cut that into a quarter, invite your nearest<br />

and dearest and experience a much more<br />

exclusive affair. We’re already booked for five<br />

weddings abroad in 2023, if you fancy joining<br />

the list, get in touch and our team will discuss all<br />

the logistics and costs with you.”<br />

Not only will Chakra Events spring into action<br />

executing your vision for the day; they’ll also be<br />

able to offer ideas you may not have considered.<br />

Having an expert’s opinion will expose you to<br />

a rich source of inspiration culminating in a<br />

celebration that exceeds your expectations and<br />

will forever be one of the happiest memories of<br />

your life.


PLANNING/CATERING<br />

Chakra Little Venice<br />

Creative cuisine and catering<br />

After hiring a venue, the food is your biggest<br />

expense so when you’re working with a caterer<br />

it’s essential that you know exactly what you’re<br />

paying for with no hidden costs. As well as<br />

cooking up a feast Chakra takes care of the<br />

extras that many couples don’t realise. Arjun<br />

explains: “At Chakra Events we have our own<br />

cutlery, crockery, glassware and linen and we<br />

can hire these out to our couples at a reduced<br />

price which will save on your overall costs<br />

ensuring you get the best value deal.”<br />

As for the food, Chakra’s mouth-watering<br />

menus are developed by chefs that understand<br />

what makes a good celebration so food is at<br />

the centre. You can expect innovative menus,<br />

show-stopping canapés, Instagrammable plating<br />

and dessert tables to die for! Arjun explains:<br />

“Indian hospitality reveres food; it brings<br />

people together, heightens the pleasure of an<br />

experience and helps break the ice when you’re<br />

Arjun Varma,<br />

CEO, Chakra Group<br />

in a group setting. Choosing your caterer is<br />

therefore the most important decision you make<br />

and you can only make up your mind when<br />

you’ve tried the food. Come and visit one of our<br />

restaurants to try our dishes for yourself, our<br />

wedding planners can then help you curate a<br />

wedding menu that captures the essence of your<br />

event and you can reminisce about it with the<br />

fondest of memories.”<br />

Chakra Barnes<br />

Vikalp Chhibber, Head of<br />

Operations, Chakra Group<br />

ABOUT CHAKRA EVENTS<br />

An award-winning catering, restaurant<br />

and events company, serving elegant<br />

Indian and Pan-Asian cuisine, Chakra<br />

was launched in 2011 by Arjun Varma<br />

using his 15+ years of experience<br />

working across the restaurant and<br />

catering industry. Today they operate<br />

four fine-dining London restaurants<br />

and are the preferred caterer for some<br />

of the most luxurious wedding venues<br />

in the UK.<br />

A FLAVOUR<br />

OF CHAKRA<br />

Chakra’s chefs will cook up<br />

a feast to fit your needs. They<br />

offer a wide choice of couture<br />

catering alongside separate<br />

menus for canapés, drinks<br />

and desserts<br />

Here are some of their most<br />

popular requests:<br />

Veg Canapés:<br />

Beetroot tikki<br />

Sweet potato chaat<br />

Masala tofu fritters<br />

Non-Veg Canapés:<br />

Masala fish and chips<br />

Chicken satay skewers<br />

Lamb seek kebabs<br />

Gujarati<br />

Crispy okra<br />

Paneer kofta<br />

Tarka dal<br />

Indo-Western<br />

Arancini<br />

Vegetable biryani<br />

Jalandhar chicken<br />

Mini desserts: chocolate pots,<br />

banoffee pies, kheer and ras malai<br />

DINE AT CHAKRA’S RESTAURANTS<br />

Fine food is at the essence of every event Chakra hosts.<br />

You can also dine all year round at one of their restaurants.<br />

Chakra Barnes: 1 The Broadway, SW13 0NY<br />

Chakra Kensington: 33c Holland Street, Kensington, W8 4LX<br />

Chakra Little Venice: 14 Formosa Street, W9 1EE<br />

Chakra Kingston: 1 Riverside Walk, KT1 1QN<br />

www.chakra.restaurant • www.chakra.events<br />

Scan QR code to<br />

Book an Event<br />

& Win a<br />

£1500 voucher


DINE<br />

Sultan<br />

LIKE A<br />

Ensure your wedding catering<br />

is a feast fit for royalty<br />

<strong>Wedding</strong> catering is about more<br />

than what’s on the menu.<br />

Feeding your guests is the most<br />

significant part of your wedding<br />

day. After all, the dining may be<br />

the longest aspect of the celebrations, so it needs<br />

to be on point. The experience you provide your<br />

guests with is what they’ll remember the most,<br />

so every aspect needs to be considered. From the<br />

table settings to service, presentation to flavour, all<br />

of these elements need to complement each other<br />

so that the result is a day your guests will never<br />

forget. London-based Sultan Caterers believe in this<br />

very philosophy, going out of their way to create a<br />

complete catering experience, that’s so exceptional,<br />

it would get the royal seal of approval.<br />

Here are their secrets…<br />

Good food<br />

Your guests will have tasted many types of wedding<br />

cuisine in their life and they will have opinions.<br />

But even the pickiest of eaters will be impressed<br />

by Sultan’s cuisine. Varied, authentic, fresh,<br />

flavoursome food that leaves you feeling good, their<br />

dishes are exceptionally tasty – something you’ll<br />

discover at your taste testing with them at their HQ<br />

in Stratford, London. Sultan offers a comprehensive<br />

vegetarian menu comprising starters, canapés and<br />

mains and can also cater for complete vegetarian<br />

and vegan functions.<br />

FOCUS ON:<br />

SULTAN<br />

CATERERS<br />

Precision presentation<br />

The food you serve at your wedding should<br />

be as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.<br />

Presentation is therefore key; the more<br />

mouthwatering your dishes look, the better they<br />

will taste. What’s more, when your guests enjoy the<br />

food, they’ll have a much better day.<br />

Succumb to the experience<br />

There are many ways to create an atmosphere<br />

– sound, lighting, music, visuals, scents; but the<br />

aspect that has the biggest impact is the service,<br />

which is all down to the caterer you book. When<br />

you hear about a ‘five star service’ it refers to the<br />

staff and the role they play. At Sultan the staff are<br />

trained to provide the highest quality of service<br />

making sure the needs of every guest is met. Expect<br />

friendly, knowledgeable waiters who second-guess<br />

your guest’s needs and a supportive team to work<br />

with.


CATERING<br />

Hand over the responsibilities<br />

Most couples lead time-poor lives and though they<br />

have every intention of planning their wedding<br />

themselves when it comes down to it they simply<br />

don’t have the time. When you book Sultan just tell<br />

them what you want and they’ll do the rest. From<br />

securing your wedding venue to arranging all the<br />

relevant suppliers, providing the décor and of course<br />

delivering a wedding feast that hits the spot. If this<br />

sounds appealing give the team a call as they’ll be<br />

happy to discuss any concerns to ensure you feel<br />

informed and confident about your options. Then<br />

when you’re happy hand over the responsibility<br />

and focus on the other aspects of your nuptials like<br />

where you want to go on your dream honeymoon.<br />

ABOUT SULTAN<br />

Offering premium catering services and event<br />

management services across London and the<br />

South East, Sultan can cater for weddings of all<br />

faiths and are specialists in vegetarian catering<br />

with vegan options available. They can assist with<br />

finding a venue and provide décor.<br />

A TASTE FROM THE<br />

SULTAN’S TABLE<br />

STARTERS<br />

Tandoori chicken<br />

Masala fish<br />

Aloo puri chaat<br />

Bhel puri<br />

CANAPÉS<br />

Prawn pakora<br />

Shami kebab<br />

Vegetable samosa<br />

Paneer tikka<br />

MAIN COURSE<br />

Karahi lamb<br />

Lamb bhuna<br />

Chicken jalfrezi<br />

Chingri jhol<br />

Chilli paneer<br />

Biriyanis & rice<br />

BREADS<br />

Naan<br />

Poori<br />

Chapati<br />

Roti<br />

DESSERTS<br />

Seasonal fruit platter<br />

Kulfi<br />

Gajar halwa<br />

Kheer<br />

DRINKS<br />

Unlimited soft drinks<br />

Masala tea & coffee<br />

SULTAN CATERERS • T: 0208 522 4528 • E: info@sultancaterers.co.uk • www.sultancaterers.co.uk


FUTURE SIGHTS AND<br />

SOUNDS OF THE DANCEFLOOR<br />

Welcome to a new era of entertainment. For over 30 years Paragon Roadshow have led the way,<br />

throwing the best wedding parties in the industry. Now, new Directors Malkit and Taran are<br />

taking the brand to impressive heights giving you a DJ and AV experience your guests will adore<br />

forget the OGs and what<br />

they’ve achieved’ Malkit and<br />

Taran, speak fondly of the<br />

founders of Paragon, the most<br />

‘Never<br />

trusted and reputable AV<br />

brand in Asian wedding events. They’ve filled big<br />

shoes since taking over the brand in 2020 from<br />

the original team following their retirement and<br />

now it’s their turn to shape how weddings will<br />

look and sound in the future, taking inspiration<br />

from the past. Malkit explains: “Everyone knows<br />

Paragon, they were pioneers and innovators. In<br />

the 1990s, no one threw wedding parties like they<br />

did but a lot has changed. Back then weddings<br />

took place in community halls and all you needed<br />

was a DJ. But now with larger venues, stricter<br />

regulations and technological innovations couples<br />

need to book a complete AV company and that’s<br />

what we offer.


ENTERTAINMENT<br />

Why you need an AV company,<br />

not just a DJ<br />

Much more goes into wedding entertainment<br />

than a DJ turning up with floor-filler records.<br />

An AV team is responsible for all the<br />

elements that make your wedding party run<br />

smoothly, taking care of the finer details as<br />

Malkit explains: “The big venues like major<br />

hotels won’t allow AV equipment into their<br />

buildings without them approving particular<br />

brands, requesting to see safety certificates,<br />

ensuring all their regulations are met and<br />

their expectations of quality. Ordinary DJs<br />

can’t meet these requirements but we can.”<br />

Though Malkit and Taran are both young<br />

company directors, they aren’t new to the<br />

industry and their knowledge of music<br />

combined with AV is what makes them<br />

experts. Taran says: “Both of us were DJing<br />

with Paragon for over 10 years so we’ve<br />

grown our careers with the company.<br />

When the owners retired we couldn’t let<br />

the brand name and experience end there,<br />

so we committed to taking it forward. Our<br />

priority is to provide a full AV experience<br />

that complies with venues and exceeds our<br />

client’s expectations.”<br />

GET THE PARTY STARTED<br />

Paragon have six DJs on their<br />

books who are all multi-genre so<br />

whether you want the full Punjabi<br />

extravaganza or a popular Western<br />

or Bollywood disco they’ll play the<br />

sounds that get you and your guests<br />

on the dancefloor. On the AV side,<br />

the team can arrange full lighting<br />

and production including bespoke<br />

synchronised lighting shows with<br />

the wow factor and mood lighting to<br />

set the scene during your wedding<br />

reception meal. The team also create<br />

bespoke staging with digital screens,<br />

LED walls and can even provide<br />

hosts and presenters bringing an<br />

extra level of professionalism to the<br />

proceedings.<br />

The dancefloor, of course, is<br />

of particular importance at all<br />

weddings and Paragon have an<br />

impressive range of options to<br />

choose from including high shine<br />

gloss and mirror floors, personalised<br />

floor decals and creative colourful<br />

painted floors with beautiful rangoli<br />

and mandala- inspired designs.<br />

Having flexible options is a passion<br />

of the team who are committed to<br />

continuing the innovations of their<br />

predecessors as Malkit explains:<br />

“There are no second chances at a<br />

wedding, everything you do has to<br />

be perfect on the day. A memorable<br />

party is ‘make or break’ for guests<br />

and as the AV and DJ team we<br />

carry the weight of ensuring it all<br />

goes smoothly. Most of the team<br />

are behind-the-scenes meticulously<br />

planning your perfect party so that<br />

everyone has a great time, and we<br />

wouldn’t have it any other way.”<br />

www.paragonroadshow.com


Industry leaders The VIP Studio give their<br />

TOP TIPS<br />

for choosing your photographer<br />

With thousands of stunning wedding photos to their<br />

credit, Industry leaders The VIP Studio share the<br />

secret to capturing your dream day in style...<br />

Choosing a photographer for your<br />

wedding can be a daunting process,<br />

but these top five tips from The VIP<br />

Studio will help you get the album of<br />

your dreams:<br />

Think about the finer details<br />

The VIP Studio like to capture<br />

weddings in an all-new style. They don’t<br />

believe in asking people to freeze at crucial<br />

moments, instead what they offer is the<br />

perfect album, which showcases what was<br />

happening and when. It’s great looking<br />

through an album of smiling faces, but<br />

even more beautiful to see real emotions<br />

and scenarios you may have missed on the<br />

day.<br />

Spend on quality, not quantity<br />

It’s far more important to spend on<br />

quality, rather than quantity when it<br />

comes to your wedding photography. Just<br />

one stunning photo can be priceless, and<br />

having high-quality images will help to<br />

keep the memories with you forever.<br />

The VIP Studio is a company that can offer<br />

you endless superior photos, something<br />

that is far more important than offering<br />

numerous albums and photos at a lower<br />

standard. Even if you’re on a tight budget,<br />

The VIP Studio can still create your<br />

fairytale album.


PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

Look at examples<br />

Always look through a photographer’s<br />

portfolio and judge them based on<br />

the final product. A good photographer<br />

should be able to offer a variety of styles<br />

that captures the personalities of the<br />

bride, groom and their guests. You may<br />

like them or the price they offer, but do you<br />

like the finishing style on their images?<br />

Also be aware that photographers will all<br />

have different editing techniques. If all of<br />

their images are heavily edited then this<br />

could be a sign of poor quality. Make a note<br />

of the other key things including style, edit<br />

and post production of each photo and the<br />

album design itself.<br />

We have over ten years experience in<br />

photography and 15 years in the graphic design<br />

industry, and we feel it’s our duty to change<br />

the way weddings are captured.<br />

Meet them beforehand<br />

Your photographer is going to<br />

be with you throughout the day,<br />

starting with those precious hours before<br />

the ceremony when you’re still having<br />

your hair and makeup done. Finding a<br />

photographer who you feel comfortable<br />

with, will not only make the experience<br />

more enjoyable, but will result in better,<br />

more natural images.<br />

Remember that technology<br />

doesn’t beat experience<br />

When choosing your photographer<br />

bear in mind that great photography can<br />

often be confused with a good knowledge of<br />

taking pictures. For example, just because a<br />

photographer uses the top quality technology<br />

does not necessarily make him the best<br />

option – what equipment they use shouldn’t<br />

dictate who you choose. If you love their work<br />

and style then they are the company for you.<br />

THE VIP STUDIO<br />

07572 008 007 • 0800 80 40 20 30<br />

info@thevipstudio.com www.thevipstudio.com<br />

thevipstudio


Heat THINGS UP…<br />

Take your event to the next level with a private shisha experience.<br />

<strong>Asiana</strong> spoke to Ebrahim Badat from Shisha Hire by Dubai Nights Lounge<br />

to discover more about the biggest new trend in wedding celebrations<br />

There’s a strong possibility<br />

that many of your guests<br />

will be shisha enthusiasts<br />

so why treat them to the<br />

pleasures at your party?<br />

After all, enjoying shisha is a centuriesold<br />

tradition so it’s a chance to combine<br />

heritage with contemporary culture.<br />

Rooted in the Middle East and popular<br />

since the time of the Ottoman empire,<br />

shisha lounges and hookah bars have<br />

long been established in countries like<br />

the UAE, Egypt, Iran and Turkey and<br />

thankfully these establishments have been<br />

expanding across the UK. As the clientele<br />

gets more discerning, the experience is<br />

getting more luxurious and this is what<br />

you can expect when you book Shisha<br />

Hire by Dubai Nights Lounge for your<br />

wedding. They offer a luxury mobile shisha<br />

service; ideal for pre-wedding functions<br />

such as a mendhi party or to complement<br />

the evening reception on your Big Day.<br />

Make your wedding sizzle<br />

The Shisha Hire by Dubai Nights Lounge<br />

service was devised by business<br />

development manager Ebrahim Badat<br />

who has over 15 years experience working<br />

in the shisha market. He and his team<br />

opened Dubai Nights Lounge in Leyton in<br />

May 2022 and it quickly established itself<br />

as the ‘go to’ shisha space in East London.<br />

Ebrahim is committed to using only the<br />

best tobacco as he explains: “I split my<br />

time between Dubai and Madrid as we<br />

have a tobacco factory in Spain. This<br />

gives us complete control over the supply<br />

chain meaning the shisha you smoke is of<br />

the highest quality.”


SHISHA HIRE<br />

Shisha Hire For Your <strong>Wedding</strong><br />

“Nothing compares to the experience of sitting<br />

down with friends over shisha and those are the<br />

memorable moments your guests will appreciate<br />

when you surprise them with an element of a<br />

wedding they aren’t expecting. All too often smokers<br />

can be excluded from weddings, made to smoke<br />

outside. A shisha experience makes smoking more<br />

accessible, acceptable and enjoyable,” says Ebrahim.<br />

So how does it work? There is a minimum booking<br />

of 10 people, though it can go as large as you<br />

want. All shisha equipment is provided including<br />

premium shisha pipes, bowls of pre-packed flavour,<br />

disposable hoses and mouth tips and charcoal and<br />

the services are unlimited so you can try as many<br />

flavours as you desire – expect glowing reviews from<br />

your guests. And don’t worry about setting it all up,<br />

Ebrahim assures: “There will be a Shisha Master in<br />

attendance. This is a trained expert who will ensure<br />

all guests are looked after and receive what they<br />

need for the experience.”<br />

SMOKING SERVICES – BESPOKE SHISHA LOUNGE<br />

For the ultimate experience, the<br />

team can arrange for a tent to be<br />

installed and create your very own<br />

private smoking lounge with all the<br />

elements you’d expect visiting your<br />

favourite hangout.<br />

Ebrahim explains: “Since<br />

I’ve been living in Dubai I’ve<br />

experienced the luxurious settings<br />

that the Shisha lounges have<br />

created. They were on a level of<br />

chicness and comfort that the UK<br />

hadn’t yet caught up with and it’s<br />

that aesthetic that inspired me<br />

when we opened Dubai Nights<br />

Lounge in East London. We’re now<br />

taking that same smouldering vibe<br />

and bringing it to your wedding.<br />

In order for us to create a bespoke<br />

tent we simply ask that your<br />

wedding venue has a garden or<br />

outdoor space so we can construct<br />

a tent. We will do full set-up and<br />

bring everything, whether it’s an<br />

inflatable lounge, a classic marquee<br />

or an outdoor terrace. The décor,<br />

lights, soft furnishings, furniture<br />

and even music are all included.”<br />

The Shisha Hire by Dubai Nights Lounge service is available nationwide. It is only available to guests who are 18+ • www.shishahire.com


XXXXXXXXXXX<br />

Ok bloomer!<br />

SAY ‘I DO’ WITH THE<br />

RIGHT BOUQUET FOR YOU…<br />

10 considerations for picking your bridal flowers<br />

200 | ASIANA WEDDING


FLOWERS<br />

Choose your bridal outfit first<br />

1<br />

The colour palette of your wedding<br />

bouquet should complement and enhance<br />

your outfit, whether it’s a classic white<br />

wedding dress or a traditional lengha. Take a<br />

photo of it along to meetings with your florist<br />

so they can advise on which flowers they<br />

recommend.<br />

Be seasonal<br />

2<br />

While you may be a fan of bright<br />

tropical florals, if you’re getting married in the<br />

winter these flowers won’t be available and<br />

they’ll look out of place. You’ll spend more<br />

money on sourcing them and they’ll have to<br />

travel far. Instead go for a more sustainable,<br />

seasonal and local option; wildflowers are our<br />

favourite.<br />

Opt for comfort<br />

3<br />

You may be holding your bouquet for<br />

a while so for a budding romance, make sure<br />

it’s manageable. It may look enchanting to<br />

have lots of hanging green foliage but if they<br />

get caught in your kaleeras it may become a<br />

thorny issue.<br />

Consider the bouquet shape<br />

4<br />

There is no one specific design when it<br />

comes to bridal bouquets. Just like you’ll be<br />

researching your jewellery and accessories,<br />

try holding round bouquets, shaped bouquets<br />

and even fan bouquets where flowers are<br />

attached to a fan – your florist can assist with<br />

this.<br />

Know your body shape<br />

5<br />

Whether you’re curvaceous, tall or<br />

petite, think about how your bouquet will<br />

compliment your overall look. For example,<br />

cascading bouquets with larger flowers suit<br />

curvy figures, while small buds wouldn’t<br />

look as effective.<br />

Compliment your theme and décor<br />

6<br />

If the starting point is your dress, once<br />

you’ve chosen your bouquet you could then<br />

carry those colours and flowers into your<br />

wedding venue décor in flower walls, garlands<br />

for pillars and table-setting centrepieces.<br />

Match your wedding cake<br />

7<br />

A popular trend is to incorporate the<br />

same flowers that appear in your bouquet<br />

onto your wedding cake. If you’re keen to try<br />

this ensure the flowers in your bouquet work<br />

on a cake – roses are perfect.<br />

Co-ordinating bouquets for<br />

8<br />

bridesmaids<br />

The bouquets held by your bridesmaids<br />

and even the petals strewn by flower girls<br />

shouldn’t overpower your bouquet but they<br />

can include similar flowers and colours, just<br />

on a simpler, smaller scale.<br />

Buttonholes for the groom and his<br />

9<br />

groomsmen<br />

It’s traditional to take one variety of flower<br />

from your bloom and introduce that into the<br />

flower corsages worn by the guys. When<br />

you’re selecting your bouquet discuss with<br />

your florist which one could be that feature<br />

flower.<br />

Scented flowers<br />

10<br />

Last bud not least, think about the<br />

smell! Some flowers like lilies and lavender<br />

give off a very strong fragrance and while<br />

that may be a welcoming feel for vases at<br />

home, when you have a bouquet to hold all<br />

day it can become nauseating if your senses<br />

are distracted. Opt for neutral-scented<br />

blooms so that the joy is in the aesthetics<br />

and not in the air.


HEN & STAG<br />

Celebrate your last days of singledom in style…<br />

Words: Anjana Gosai<br />

DOUBLE TROUBLE:<br />

STEN DO IDEA<br />

A combined stag and hen do is the ideal<br />

choice for couples with overlapping<br />

friendship groups wishing to celebrate<br />

together. Named after the Mumbai<br />

suburb, Pahli Hill Restaurant in the heart<br />

of London is a vibrant dining space with<br />

an informal feel and capacity for 55<br />

people. There’s an open kitchen in one<br />

corner where diners can watch head chef<br />

Avi Shashidhara and his team cook up<br />

delicious sharing plates, like homestyle<br />

fish curry, paper dosa and sourdough<br />

roti. Once you’ve eaten, take your party<br />

down to the kitsch basement bar Banda<br />

PIERCING PARTY!<br />

Give your hens a memento to cherish. If you’re a fan of<br />

the ‘curated ear’, which involves stacking dainty earrings<br />

along the lobes and cartilage, Lark & Berry’s personalised<br />

service includes piercing placement and styling advice,<br />

a 14k gold earring from their elegant selection and some<br />

fizz for your group to sip on.You also get a selection<br />

of mini perfumes, fine chocolates and tote bag to take<br />

away. It all takes place at their chic flagship store in<br />

London Marylebone. £150pp, www.larkandberry.com<br />

Bhai, which will transport you to the<br />

dimly-lit world of India’s old smuggling<br />

dens. Decked with plush velvet chairs and<br />

vintage wallpaper it’s the perfect space to<br />

drink the night away together.<br />

www.pahlihillbandrabhai.com<br />

Boozy afternoon tea for blokes<br />

Planning a stag do for a small group of<br />

friends? Foodies should head to the The<br />

Sanctum Soho Hotel for their Gentlemen’s<br />

Afternoon Tea. There are no dainty<br />

sandwiches here, instead your party can<br />

tuck into oysters, baby back ribs, hearty<br />

steak rolls and burgers. Sweet options<br />

include rum and raisin scones followed by<br />

a Villiger Export Cigar to enjoy on the roof<br />

terrace. www.sanctumsoho.com<br />

DINING OUT: COPPA CLUB<br />

A chic and spacious café, bar, restaurant and lounge, Coppa<br />

Club is made for group get-togethers. You’ll find branches<br />

in picture perfect locations like Tower Bridge in London and<br />

the North Laine in Brighton. Coppa Club place emphasis on<br />

experience and they have a range of bookable domes where<br />

you can dine alfresco and enjoy intimate conversation, or sit<br />

inside amidst the colourful surroundings. While there’s a vast<br />

cocktail menu, non-drinkers won’t feel left out. The mocktails<br />

are impressive and include a refreshing Popstar Martini and<br />

Peach Trip which has a CBD infusion. Tuck into grills like<br />

spiced roasted cauliflower and fish and finish with a droolworthy<br />

dessert. www.coppaclub.co.uk<br />

HIT IT OUT AT SIXES<br />

With branches in London, Birmingham and Manchester,<br />

cricket-lovers should head down to Sixes for a sporty stag.<br />

Practice your cover drives in state-of-the-art batting nets<br />

and cricket simulators, which can be hired by the hour. Once<br />

you’re done channeling your inner Virat Kohli, be sure to grab<br />

some food. The menu includes options such as the Coronation<br />

Bubble & Squeak Pakoras and the Delhi Smasher Burger. Not<br />

just for the guys, brides-to-be wanting to get in on the action<br />

should go along on a Friday to take advantage of the free nets<br />

that are available to book for groups of up to 15 using the<br />

code ‘wegotgame’.<br />

www.sixescricket.com


HEN & STAG<br />

RELAX LIKE ROYALTY AT<br />

FAIRMONT, WINDSOR PARK<br />

If you’re looking for some pre-wedding downtime with<br />

the girls, look no further than a spa break at this<br />

recently opened countryside retreat. Set within a 40-<br />

acre estate, beside Windsor Great Park, the newly-opened<br />

luxury property makes a grand first impression. From its<br />

lake-view entrance complete with pretty fountains, to its<br />

majestic lobby with a 50ft glass atrium dome – it’s all so<br />

pristine and grand. This includes the state-of-the-art spa,<br />

which is a destination in its own right.<br />

Fairmont Spa & Wellness is a sprawling two-floor 2,500<br />

square metre space designed to make you feel rested and<br />

restored.<br />

TREATMENTS<br />

Let’s start with the pampering. There are 18 plush<br />

treatment rooms, including three for couples plus a VIP<br />

spa suite with a rasul, hot tub, private dining area and<br />

dressing room. Pick from over 20 treatments which<br />

are carried out using Comfort Zone and the wonderful<br />

ayurvedic Mauli range.<br />

The blissful Maharani Detox Glow Heated Cocoon<br />

(£245 for 135 minutes) includes a body brush, scrub, wrap,<br />

mini facial and scalp massage. Stressed out individuals<br />

should go for the Royal Signature Ritual (£175, 85<br />

minutes), which incorporates stretches and breathwork<br />

combining Japanese, Ayurvedic and an practices.<br />

Other therapies include ayurvedic rituals, vitamin<br />

infusions, osteopathy, nutritional therapy and<br />

acupuncture.<br />

FACILITIES<br />

There’s plenty for the hen party to enjoy here. Inside<br />

you will find a 20 metre indoor pool area, complete with<br />

marble loungers, a thermal suite with a Finnish sauna,<br />

steam room, experience showers, ice fountain, Japanese<br />

Ashiyu foot ritual bath, a hot tub and a warming<br />

tepidarium bench.<br />

The softly-lit deep relaxation room is ideal for a post<br />

treatment nap, while the bright Himalayan salt room<br />

overlooking the picturesque courtyard is great for a lie<br />

down. The spa welcomes day and hotel guests. There are<br />

several packages to pick from. The Spa Escape (£685)<br />

includes an overnight stay, breakfast, a three-course<br />

dinner plus a 55-minute treatment. The Signature<br />

Collection (£260 per person) comprises of a stint in<br />

DINING AND SLEEPING<br />

the invigorating Cryotherapy Chamber, a 55-minute<br />

treatment followed by the relaxation-inducing AquaVibe<br />

therapy, where you lie on a dry floatation bed that<br />

delivers sound frequencies to the body. The friendly spa<br />

team can also design bespoke packages to suit your needs<br />

and those looking to only use the facilities can book a spa<br />

pass (£75 per person).<br />

Guests on the spa packages have access to the stunning<br />

and highly Instagrammable courtyard hydrotherapy<br />

vitality pool, which resembles a Moroccan riad - with<br />

floral decor and mosaic tiles. Amid bubbling massage jets,<br />

the vitality pool is heated to a comforting 39°C, making it<br />

an all-weather space where you can gather with friends<br />

and chat for hours. That’s not all. For deeper relaxation,<br />

thermal treatments designed by Parisian brand La<br />

Sultane de Saba can also be booked in the six-person<br />

marble Hammam. If you feel peckish, pop into Greens<br />

Café, which serves a range of salads, snacks and juices.<br />

We recommend staying for dinner at the hotel’s fabulous restaurant – Moreish.<br />

Book the Chef’s Experience (for up to 16 people) where you’ll be seated adjacent<br />

to the buzzy open kitchen. Not only do you get to see head chef Matyas Rigo<br />

and his team prepare European and Middle Eastern delights, he’ll present them<br />

to you throughout the evening complete with a detailed explanation of the<br />

culinary delight – including his indulgent crab linguine in lobster bisque.<br />

Those staying the night are in for a treat. All 200 rooms and suites are<br />

spacious and sophisticated, many with views of the manicured grounds, serene<br />

lake or nearby forests. Decked out in natural stone, soft textures and a muted<br />

colour palette, the rooms make you feel immediately relaxed. Beds are some<br />

of the most comfortable you will sleep on, while bathrooms are spacious, with<br />

enormous tubs and Le Labo goodies. • www.fairmont-windsorpark.com


Love stories in movies, books<br />

and songs all have one thing<br />

in common; they only tell you<br />

one side of the story. Marriage<br />

is amazing but it’s also hard.<br />

Many of the obstacles and hurdles you’ll<br />

face, particularly in the early days are to do<br />

with navigating the relationship you have<br />

with your partner, dealing with the needs of<br />

another person and getting to know them and<br />

yourself in a new way. Dr Sohaib Imtiaz who<br />

is a certified Lifestyle Doctor and Founder of<br />

the Ameli App, a matchmaking app that uses<br />

behavioural psychology to help you find your<br />

perfect partner, is a newly-wed himself so is<br />

aware of the challenges and believes they can<br />

be overcome: “All change is hard, even the<br />

most exciting changes like moving in with your<br />

life partner present problems that you never<br />

could have predicted. There is a link between<br />

relationships and mental health, especially in<br />

terms of how someone treats you and makes<br />

you feel, but while this may seem like a cause<br />

for<br />

Happily<br />

concern, these issues can be addressed.”<br />

EVER AFTER<br />

Being a newlywed is filled with blissful moments but adjusting to<br />

married life has its fair share of challenges too. Here’s how you can<br />

ensure that both of you are equipped to deal with the changes ahead<br />

Adjusting to living with a partner<br />

There are physical and emotional<br />

adjustments that need to be made when<br />

you move in with someone and this can<br />

have an effect on your emotional wellbeing<br />

and mental health. That’s why it’s so<br />

important to prioritise communication from<br />

the beginning. Dr Sohaib explains: “We<br />

call this love languages; how you speak to<br />

and communicate with your partner. If you<br />

experience differences rather than start<br />

an argument, break the problem down<br />

into chunks. Take a moment to air your<br />

expectations of the situation. Being open<br />

and honest will help ease the issue, find a<br />

compromise and strengthen your bond.”<br />

Often these issues don’t arise until the<br />

honeymoon period wares off but you are<br />

not alone in this, it’s completely natural.<br />

Dr Sohaib explains: “In the first six months<br />

you’ll experience a lot of dopamine and<br />

because you’ll be feeling so happy you<br />

may overlook what later becomes a red<br />

flag. Things that didn’t annoy you when<br />

you were courting may suddenly become<br />

difficult to deal with. Again communication<br />

is important but it’s recommended that you<br />

speak to an expert outside of the marriage.”<br />

Most people assume relationship<br />

counsellors are for couples but they are<br />

equally as beneficial if you attend sessions<br />

on your own. Having a relationship<br />

Dr Sohaib Imtiaz is a doctor certified<br />

in lifestyle medicine; Founder of the<br />

Ameli App and Human Behaviour<br />

Club on Clubhouse<br />

counsellor will help you talk about your<br />

feelings without being judged, this is<br />

something that isn’t possible with friends<br />

and family. You’ll also be in a better place<br />

to speak with your partner, which should<br />

be weekly. Dr Sohaib advises: “Have weekly<br />

check-ins with your partner where you can<br />

both say how you’re feeling about things.<br />

Doing it at the weekends when you may<br />

have a bit more time is great as it clears the<br />

air before the new week so that you don’t<br />

carry over any stresses which can manifest<br />

in your mental health going down.”


RELATIONSHIPS<br />

Coping with loneliness<br />

Leaving your home behind which may be<br />

buzzing with the sounds of siblings and<br />

swapping it for a space with just two people<br />

can feel very quiet and at times when your<br />

partner is away or out, feelings of loneliness<br />

can set in which can trigger your mental<br />

health. “Loneliness is dangerous”, says Dr<br />

Sohaib. “The pandemic showed us just how<br />

serious it is and the effect it can have on our<br />

mental health. The best way to combat it is to<br />

stay in contact with friends and family. Apps<br />

like Facetime make this so easy to do. But<br />

also seek new friendships. Online is a great<br />

place to meet people, the Bumble app has a<br />

feature for making new friends and it would<br />

be fun to meet up and do an activity that you<br />

have a shared interest in. You don’t need to<br />

feel alone, there is always someone to talk to.<br />

Talking to a therapist or counsellor can help.”<br />

Moving in with in-laws<br />

For some couples, not only are they adjusting<br />

to living with each other, they may have to<br />

deal with the whole new dynamic of living<br />

with in-laws and this has its own set of<br />

concerns. There are many things to consider<br />

before moving in with your in-laws. The most<br />

important will be to sit with your spouse<br />

and come up with a plan and list out the<br />

expectations both parties have of each other<br />

as well as the responsibilities. Psychologist Dr<br />

Saliha Afridi explains: “Questions that will<br />

need discussion will include things like how<br />

much time and when are you expected to be<br />

together? What is ‘the couples space’ versus<br />

shared space? Who will speak to the in-laws if<br />

there is a disagreement? What are your nonnegotiable<br />

boundaries? What are you willing<br />

to compromise?”<br />

Dr Saliha Afridi, is a Psychologist,<br />

Entrepreneur and Founder of<br />

the Lighthouse Arabia Dubai<br />

She adds: “Remember that most people<br />

already have preconceived ideas about how<br />

‘mother-in-laws’ are and they are mostly<br />

about how contentious that relationship can<br />

be and how mother-in-laws don’t respect<br />

boundaries and so when a disagreement<br />

happens it is typically seen with that lens and<br />

taken as a sign of something much more than<br />

just a disagreement.”<br />

This is something to think about before you<br />

react in the wrong way.<br />

Dr Saliha says preparation can help. She<br />

advises: “Before the move, write out what<br />

your preconceived fears are and know what<br />

the triggers could be. It will also be important<br />

to come up with a list of things to remember<br />

when things get heated, as they do in any<br />

relationship where people live together. That<br />

list can include many things such as how you<br />

will make considerations, how to not take<br />

things personally, how to find your centre<br />

again and move towards compromise and<br />

harmony.”<br />

If you need relationship or mental<br />

health advice always speak to<br />

a professional. Here are some<br />

organisations that can help you.<br />

You can also speak to your GP.<br />

• Relate<br />

(relationship counselling services)<br />

www.relate.org.uk<br />

• Mind (mental health charity<br />

www.mind.org.uk<br />

• NHS<br />

(lists local counselling services)<br />

www.nhs.uk


BEAUTY<br />

Scented <strong>Wedding</strong><br />

Light one of these fragrant candles on your wedding day. As well as creating a beautiful<br />

atmosphere, you and your loved ones will forever associate the scent with the joyous occasion<br />

Words and styling: Anjana Gosai<br />

Ginori 1735 Rajathra Palace Candle (£144,<br />

selfridges.com) is inspired by Rajasthan. It<br />

will fill your venue with scents of rose oil,<br />

clove, sandalwood and patchouli<br />

Rituals Soulful Love<br />

Jasmine Wild Rose<br />

Scented Candle<br />

(£26.50, rituals.com)<br />

will infuse your venue<br />

with a floral scent of<br />

intense jasmine flower<br />

and delicate wild rose<br />

Filled into an elegant marble<br />

vessel Officine Universelle<br />

Buly, Conversations in a<br />

Park Scented Candle (£135,<br />

buly1803.com) features notes<br />

of peppermint, bergamot and<br />

opulent Ottoman roses<br />

Tom Ford Private Blend Neroli Portofino (£68,<br />

johnlewis.com) is an uplifting citrus and floral<br />

scent that captures the cool breezes and crystal<br />

waters of the Italian Riviera<br />

Tom Ford Private Blend Neroli<br />

Portofino (£68, johnlewis.com) is<br />

an uplifting citrus and floral scent<br />

that captures the cool breezes and<br />

crystal waters of the Italian Riviera<br />

Fable & Mane Incredible India Scented Candle (£42, fableandmane.<br />

com) is influenced by the garlands worn at the temples of the<br />

spiritual city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu. It will fill your room with<br />

scents of heady jasmine sambac and citrusy champaca flowers


Essential knowledge for the bride-to-be<br />

BEAUT Y<br />

The Mane<br />

Attraction<br />

No one does show-stopping hair like Dar<br />

FACE TIME<br />

These fast-track procedures could<br />

revolutionalise your skin<br />

SMELL THE ROSES<br />

Forest Essentials Rose Absolute collection comes infused with<br />

hand plucked roses sourced from the verdant gardens in Kannauj,<br />

India. This beautiful flower, also known as desi gulab in Ayurveda,<br />

is steam distilled to extract its pure essential oil which is then filled<br />

into this deeply nourishing collection. www.forestessentials.co.uk<br />

THE ART OF<br />

AESTHETICS<br />

Pre-wedding treatments<br />

every bride should prioritise


BRIDAL MAKEUP • TRAINING COURSES<br />

lubnarafiq.com/lragency<br />

07939 15 44 00<br />

lubnarafiqacademy OfficialLubnaRafiq letsmakeupLR<br />

Outfit: Monga’s • Jewellery: Maala London


Words: Anjana Gosai • Hair & Make-Up: Naveeda<br />

Outfit: Seasons • Jewellery: Tanaya Couture<br />

BEAUTYNotes<br />

The latest innovations to help you look and feel great<br />

Glow Getter<br />

Make-up won’t look smooth without<br />

the right ‘canvas’. Make sure your<br />

skin is in the best possible shape by<br />

smoothing on Tatcha Violet C Radiance<br />

Mask (£65, spacenk.com) before<br />

applying your base. Crafted in Tokyo,<br />

the mask comes filled with two types<br />

of brightening vitamin C along with<br />

mild, exfoliating fruit acids to refine skin<br />

texture and impart a dewy-glow.<br />

SPA OF THE SEASON<br />

BLUSHING BRIDE<br />

Achieve a romantic touch of blush with the<br />

lightweight and buildable Liquid Flush Cheek<br />

Tint (£25, cultbeauty.com) by celebrity make-up<br />

artist Monika Blunder. Available in four shades<br />

that flatter Asian complexions,<br />

the blushers are made with<br />

skin-friendly oils such as arnica<br />

and safflower, making them<br />

ideal for dry or sensitive skin.<br />

Perfect Primer<br />

Huda GloWish Blur Jam Silicone-<br />

Free Smoothing Primer (£29, boots.<br />

com) contains soothing Damascus<br />

rose water, vitamin-rich prickly pear,<br />

calming cactus flower extract,<br />

and water-locking powder<br />

technology to help boost<br />

hydration, blur pores, and<br />

extend make-up wear<br />

for up to 12 hours – a<br />

wedding day must.<br />

TRY IT: ESPA’S CRYO GLOBES<br />

Made from stainless steel, these cooling ESPA’s<br />

Cryo Globes (£55, espaskincare.com) work a<br />

treat to reduce puffiness, release facial tension<br />

and awaken the complexion. Use alongside your<br />

favourite skincare, massaging along the facial<br />

contours to help lift, tighten and depuff.<br />

Homewood, Bath<br />

Part of the Small Luxury Hotels<br />

of the World family, this stylish<br />

country house property, located<br />

just 15-minutes from Bath is<br />

surrounded by the enchanting<br />

Avon Valley and is the perfect<br />

bolthole for a pre or postwedding<br />

spot of relaxation.<br />

The Georgian mansion is truly<br />

charismatic, with quirky touches all<br />

over, such as antique wall clocks<br />

covering the reception area and<br />

floral prints adorning the walls of<br />

the Valentine’s Bar. Take a stroll<br />

through the immaculate gardens<br />

where you’ll spot an adorable boxhedged<br />

teddy bear and life-sized<br />

giraffe, which are sure to put a smile<br />

on your face.<br />

There are 21 bedrooms which<br />

are all spacious and bright. You<br />

could spend hours in the wellequipped<br />

spa that includes a<br />

large indoor hydrotherapy pool,<br />

sauna and steam room; a hot<br />

tub with views of the valley;<br />

plus an outdoor swimming pool<br />

heated to 28 degrees Celcius.<br />

Treatments are carried out using<br />

the award-winning Ila products,<br />

which are wonderfully-therapeutic<br />

and centred around enhancing your<br />

physical and emotional wellbeing.<br />

The signature Vitality top-to-toe<br />

treatment (£85, 60minutes) is<br />

blissful. It combines a full body<br />

massage using the ancient Indian<br />

practice of marma therapy and<br />

energy-boosting essential oils along<br />

with a rejuvenating facial.<br />

www.homewoodbath.co.uk


Cosmetics: Forever 52 Makeup • Jewellery: Zevar by Samra Falak • Bridalwear: Zoyaz London • Photography: The Cactus Agency • Styling: Zaf Shabir


07391 170 125<br />

kirenvirdimua@gmail.com<br />

kirenvirdimua


Jewellery: Roshan’s Jewellery<br />

JK<br />

JOGGY KANG<br />

07879 674 174 • joggy.kang@gmail.com<br />

www.joggykang.com


Outfit: Seasons • Jewellery: Tanaya Couture<br />

Bridal Enquiries:<br />

079<strong>58</strong> 635 857<br />

www.naveeda.com


As soon as the<br />

countdown to your<br />

wedding starts,<br />

there are parts of<br />

the planning and<br />

preparations that friends, family<br />

and wedding planners can’t help<br />

with and that is you investing<br />

in yourself. But thankfully, it’s a<br />

task where help is at hand. Brides<br />

and grooms all strive to look<br />

their very best on their Big Day<br />

and ‘tweakments’ or non-surgical<br />

aesthetic procedures can help you<br />

feel confident, rejuvenated and<br />

ready to shine in front of the crowds<br />

and cameras.<br />

Mi:Skin Laser Clinic in Aylesbury<br />

are beauty aesthetic specialists<br />

offering a range of treatments<br />

that are applied in a bespoke way<br />

for every client. Senior Aesthetic<br />

Therapist Snowvia at Mi:Skin<br />

Laser Clinic explains: “Our bespoke<br />

treatments are tailor-made for our<br />

brides, everyone is different and<br />

we spend time understanding and<br />

best<br />

analysing your needs so that you get<br />

optimum results.”<br />

LOOK YOUR VERY<br />

Senior Aesthetic Therapist Snowvia at Mi:Skin Laser Clinic<br />

explains the pre-wedding treatments every bride should prioritise<br />

Their treatments include<br />

everything from teeth whitening<br />

to laser hair and pigment removal,<br />

vein removal and redness reduction;<br />

the personal concerns you may<br />

have that may be preventing you<br />

from feeling your most confident.<br />

Whatever your worries are, Snowvia<br />

and her team invite you to join them<br />

for a private consultation where<br />

all your concerns will be listened<br />

to, taken seriously, and a plan of<br />

action created; it could be the most<br />

important investment you make.<br />

The world of aesthetics can be<br />

daunting if they’re new to you,<br />

so we asked Snowvia for her<br />

recommendations of the top three<br />

treatments that brides and groomsto-be<br />

can benefit from.


BEAUTY<br />

Hydrafacials<br />

You might not expect to find facials on the<br />

treatment list at an aesthetic clinic, but the<br />

Hydrafacial is unlike the regular facials you find at<br />

spas. They are just as relaxing, but the treatments<br />

are targeted at giving you long-lasting results<br />

that start from your first one. Snowvia explains:<br />

“Clients can have a course of hydrafacial to target<br />

specific skin concerns. It’s typically a course of<br />

three or six, two to four weeks apart. For an<br />

instant pre-wedding glow, a hydrafacial is a must<br />

one to two days before your wedding, there is no<br />

downtime and you’ll leave with an instant glow.”<br />

It’s no wonder that A’list celebrities swear by<br />

hydrafacials before major events like red carpets<br />

as it makes an immediate difference.<br />

Laser Skin Rejuvenation<br />

A safe and reliable way to revive tired-looking<br />

dull, loose and even sun-damaged and<br />

dehydrated skin, laser skin rejuvenation stimulates<br />

collagen growth and production and addresses<br />

many of the issues that ageing skin has. It’s a<br />

comfortable treatment that will give impressive<br />

results. Snowvia explains the procedure: “We<br />

begin with a skin analysis, followed by a full<br />

cleanse of the skin before the laser treatments are<br />

carried out.” These treatments are most effective<br />

applied monthly and lead to firmer, tighter skin.<br />

Laser Hair Removal<br />

The removal of unwanted body and facial hair<br />

can completely change your life, giving you a<br />

newfound feeling of body confidence and beauty.<br />

Like all of the treatments at Mi:Skin Laser Clinic,<br />

clients are invited for an in-depth consultation<br />

where a patch test is undertaken. Snowvia<br />

explains: “On the consultation day clients can<br />

feel the sensation and we always reassure them<br />

how it will feel and what to expect. What really<br />

sets us apart is the use of a gold standard, FDAapproved<br />

device. This makes the process from the<br />

beginning to the end seamless for clients. Quite<br />

often clients have had uncomfortable experiences<br />

elsewhere, as an overwhelming number of clinics<br />

are using cheaply made replica machines, these<br />

aren’t safe or effective.” For optimal results<br />

Snowvia recommends you begin this procedure<br />

a year before your Big Day. Laser Hair removal is<br />

usually for around eight sessions every four weeks<br />

on the face and every six weeks on the body.<br />

“OUR BESPOKE TREATMENTS ARE TAILOR-MADE<br />

FOR OUR BRIDES, EVERY CLIENT IS DIFFERENT AND<br />

WE SPEND TIME UNDERSTANDING AND ANALYSING<br />

YOUR NEEDS SO THAT YOU GET OPTIMUM RESULTS”<br />

ABOUT SNOWVIA<br />

Clinical Director & Senior Aesthetic Therapist at Mi:Skin Laser Clinic<br />

Snowvia has over 15 years of<br />

experience in Aesthetics gaining a<br />

Level 4 Aesthetics qualification. Her<br />

background is in cosmetic dentistry.<br />

Mi:Skin Laser Clinic opened in August<br />

2020 with a vision to bring the Harley<br />

Street experience and make it more<br />

accessible in Buckinghamshire.<br />

To book a consultation with Snowvia<br />

and her team, contact:<br />

Mi:Skin Laser Clinic<br />

52 Wedgewood Street,<br />

Aylesbury, HP19 7HL<br />

01296 796464<br />

info@miskinlaserclinic.com<br />

www.miskinlaserclinic.com


WorkOF<br />

ART<br />

Don’t know where to begin with mehndi designs and finding the right artist?<br />

House of Henna is on hand with expert tips, trends and know-how…<br />

Even beyond your Big Day,<br />

during those memorable<br />

weeks following your wedding,<br />

your hennaed hands will be<br />

admired by all and symbolise<br />

your new bride status. Since the henna<br />

isn’t going to fade away that easily, you<br />

need to entrust someone with the role of<br />

beautifying your hands safely and ensure that<br />

you are actually going to love the finished<br />

designs. Cue House of Henna, a collective of<br />

experienced and talented henna artists based<br />

in London…<br />

Feel like a bride<br />

Most of the wedding prep is done and you’re<br />

just about winding down in the lead-up<br />

to your Big Day. Whether you have your<br />

henna applied at home or at your full-on<br />

Mehndi party, it’s only when you’re sat<br />

down, surrounded by loved ones watching<br />

the henna art conjured up on your body, that<br />

you start getting the bridal feels. Alma of<br />

House of Henna understands this sentiment<br />

as she enthuses, ‘We understand that henna<br />

for brides is an integral part of the wedding<br />

rituals. Whilst the bride-to-be has her henna<br />

applied to her hands and feet a few days<br />

before her wedding, she can enjoy the moment<br />

and relax. Traditionally, this is a tranquil<br />

time for the bride and a fun time for her<br />

friends to join in with the celebrations at the<br />

henna party before the Big Day.’<br />

Henna is an aphrodisiac<br />

Whilst it is traditional and symbolic for the<br />

bride to have her henna done, it is also fun<br />

to involve your family and friends to get<br />

their hands adorned too. What makes House<br />

of Henna so refreshingly unique, current<br />

and on-trend, is that they not only provide<br />

mobile services, but also have a rather hip<br />

pop-up experience in a range of locations,<br />

currently in trendy Shoreditch. It’s not all<br />

about the traditions, it’s also about the art.<br />

Alma explains more, ‘We are unique in the<br />

henna industry, as not only do we provide our<br />

services at your own private and corporate<br />

parties, but you can also have your henna<br />

done in the comfort of our beautiful pop-up<br />

henna salons, which pop up in vibrant<br />

parts of London. We create a variety of<br />

temporary body art for people from all kinds<br />

of backgrounds. Even brides who want to


BEAUTY<br />

enjoy the salon experience and get away from<br />

the chaos of wedding prep, relax and tell us<br />

all about their big day whilst having their<br />

henna done. For some, this ritual and the<br />

henna itself is considered to bring good luck,<br />

joy and beautification. Apparently, henna has<br />

aphrodisiac properties too!’<br />

Safe and natural<br />

Anything going on your skin, particularly<br />

something that is going to last a while, should<br />

be safe and natural. Fortunately, the artists<br />

at House of Henna use only the best type of<br />

henna there is. Alma shares more, ‘House<br />

of Henna specialises in creating beautiful<br />

body art using henna and a fruit based dye<br />

called Jagua ink, which produces a beautiful<br />

and safe black stain, akin to a permanent<br />

tattoo. We only use fresh henna which is<br />

chemical free and pay attention to every<br />

detail of your wedding attire to ensure the<br />

henna compliments your chosen look for your<br />

special day. Our team of henna artists are<br />

highly skilled with every one of their skills<br />

deriving from years of having done beautiful<br />

bridal henna. Nothing is more intricate and<br />

beautiful then the henna which adorns the<br />

arms and legs of a bride.’<br />

GET WITH THE TRENDS<br />

• Brides are wanting to go all out and<br />

show off motifs from leafy vines and<br />

florals, mandalas and lace patterns all<br />

along the same arm.<br />

• The trick is to ensure each motif<br />

connects beautifully with the next, leaving<br />

little space.<br />

• As body art specialists, if you wish to<br />

be truly unique, we can create so much<br />

more than the usual requests for birds and<br />

elephants and why stop at hands and feet?<br />

Consider displaying beautiful bridal henna<br />

art on your back or shoulders.<br />

• For the minimalistic bride, an elegant<br />

mandala or the continued trend of the<br />

lacy glove-like style finished with delicate<br />

geometric patterns along the fingers may<br />

be more her choice.<br />

• The half and half becoming one gorgeous<br />

motif when the bride’s hands are placed<br />

together will still be on trend.<br />

• There is a continued rise in popularity<br />

of the bold and beautiful Gulf bridal henna<br />

designs.<br />

• Grooms are also getting more and more<br />

in on the act, we expect to see more this<br />

year.<br />

• Whilst trends are great, the classic<br />

elegance of domes, names of loved ones<br />

intricately placed in between curvy<br />

paisleys, portraits of the bride and groom<br />

and the spiritually significant Lotus flower<br />

will always be firm favourites and on the<br />

list of many of your henna requests.<br />

It’s all about the colour<br />

There is many an old folklore claiming that the<br />

deeper the colour of your henna, the more your<br />

husband will love you. So don’t be surprised<br />

if an aunty jee examines your hands on your<br />

wedding day and comments on the colour and<br />

gives you a cheeky wink! Alma tells all, ‘To<br />

achieve an optimal stunning colour, once our<br />

artist completes your gorgeous bridal henna, we<br />

will spritz it with a lemon and sugar sealant and<br />

wrap it up in breathable tape to ensure you have<br />

a beautiful deep henna stain when it matters the<br />

most, on your wedding day.’<br />

Book House of Henna:<br />

www.houseofhennalondon.com<br />

info@houseofhennalondon.com<br />

07852 12<strong>58</strong>25 • 020 7739 9428


Fast-track<br />

BEAUTY<br />

The latest non-invasive procedures can swiftly leave you looking brighter,<br />

tauter and years younger in time for your Big Day, says Anjana Gosai<br />

If you’re having regular facials but your skin is still not looking as<br />

perky as you desire, or perhaps you’re putting in the can be the best<br />

option for the pre-wedding results you demand. Thanks to a new<br />

generation of tools and techniques doctors can now smooth lines,<br />

fade discoloration and melt unwanted fat in a matter of hours. The<br />

best thing about this new breed of subtle procedures is that they<br />

are comfortable, there’s no recovery time and the effects are so<br />

discreet, that you’ll simply look like a tweaked version of yourself.<br />

FACE TIME<br />

As we turn 30, the body’s firming collagen and moisturising<br />

hyaluronic acid stores begin to deplete, which means our skin can<br />

start to look thinner, lined and less taut. Plus, accumulated sun<br />

exposure can lead to the formation of hyperpigmentation on the<br />

skin, which can be just as ageing as wrinkles.<br />

Dull, Dry Skin<br />

Make-up will sit better on smooth skin. The Egyptian Facial<br />

(£250, drdavidjackclinic.com) with Dr David Jack will leave<br />

your complexion looking fresh and radiant. The three-step facial<br />

includes a bespoke fruit acid peel to dissolve dead skin cells. Next<br />

comes dermaplaning, where a tiny scalpel is used to shave away<br />

peach fuzz followed by a nourishing vitamin facial.<br />

Refresh dry and tired looking skin with Profhilo (www.profhilo.<br />

co.uk). Unlike fillers, this unique injectable does not alter the<br />

volume or shape of the face, making it a great entry point for those<br />

looking to try tweakments. The fluid hyaluronic acid gel is injected<br />

into five areas of the face where it spreads under the skin, forming<br />

a water-binding layer to give the complexion a juicy glow that lasts<br />

for several months. It also stimulates the production of collagen<br />

and elastin giving skin a firmer, springier feel.<br />

Pigmentation<br />

Removing blotchy pigmentation can instantly brighten up and even<br />

out the skin. Dr Amiee Vyas’s signature DSP Method (doctoramiee.<br />

com) consists of an in-depth skin and lifestyle consultation followed<br />

by a carefully-designed plan consisting of a combination of medicalgrade<br />

skincare and chemical peels that are tailored to your skin tone<br />

and needs - so there’s no risk of irritation.<br />

Fine Lines<br />

For tighter and perkier skin, you won’t be disappointed with<br />

Dermafrac (dermafrac.co.uk), which calls on crystal-free<br />

microdermabrasion to buff away dead cells and shift impurities<br />

followed by vacuum occlusion to pull the skin into contact with<br />

hundreds of microneedles, while infusing it with a serum. The<br />

needling action pierces the skin, creating pathways for the serum<br />

to penetrate deeper. Expect to emerge with smoother and tighter<br />

skin after just one 45-minute treatment.


BEAUTY


BEAUTY<br />

Lax Skin<br />

If you are a smoker or sunworshipper,<br />

skin laxity may be<br />

visible in your early 30s, and it is<br />

difficult to treat with skin care.<br />

Tissue-tightening radiofrequency<br />

treatments such as Pelleve (from<br />

£1200, drritarakus.com) is an<br />

effective fix. Pelleve involves the<br />

use of a pain-free, radiofrequencyemitting<br />

wand, which heats the<br />

lower layers of the skin to firm<br />

the area and smooth crinkles.<br />

Results are instant and users have<br />

seen impressive results around<br />

the eye, brow and mouth area<br />

after just one session. Sunken<br />

cheeks can be lifted with the<br />

HarmonyCa (allerganaesthetics.<br />

co.uk) – a new hybrid injectable<br />

containing hyaluronic acid and<br />

calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHa).<br />

The hyaluronic acid particles work<br />

deep within the skin providing<br />

an immediate lifting effect, while<br />

the CaHA support the body’s own<br />

collagen production, so new collagen<br />

fibres start to form.<br />

If you’re worried about ending up<br />

with chipmunk cheeks, show the<br />

doctor a picture of yourself in your<br />

20s, so they can see how you looked<br />

and then try to replicate that.<br />

Dark Circles<br />

If you’ve tried every eye cream<br />

under the sun, but are still not<br />

noticing a difference in your dark<br />

circles, then you may be expecting<br />

too much from your skincare.<br />

As we age, the fat just under the<br />

skin diminishes, and this exposes<br />

the underlying deep fat pad.<br />

This creates a hollowing effect,<br />

that casts a shadow. Ophthalmic<br />

plastic reconstructive surgeon, Dr<br />

Sabrina Shah Desai has developed<br />

Eye Boost (www.perfecteyesltd.<br />

com). She delivers nano-droplets of<br />

dermal filler Restylane Vital Light<br />

into the eyelid skin and tear trough<br />

area (the area below your lower<br />

eyelid and above your cheek) to<br />

restore lost volume, which reduces<br />

the appearance of dark circles.<br />

PRE<br />

PROCEDURE<br />

CHECKLIST<br />

Before you go ahead<br />

with any treatment,<br />

do your homework…<br />

Research your doctor<br />

It’s vital to check<br />

out your doctor’s<br />

credentials, qualifications<br />

and reputation before<br />

you book.<br />

Know your brands Not<br />

all products and tools<br />

are of the same quality.<br />

Ask your doctor which<br />

brands they use and<br />

why.<br />

Check the manufacturer<br />

Research the reputation<br />

of the company<br />

behind the product or<br />

procedure.<br />

Safety check<br />

Be sure that the product<br />

or procedure has been<br />

extensively tested.<br />

Past patient satisfaction<br />

Your doctor should<br />

be willing to show you<br />

testimonials and before/<br />

after pictures of previous<br />

patient’s outcomes.<br />

BODY OF WORK<br />

Stubborn Fat<br />

If countless gym sessions<br />

or Peloton classes haven’t<br />

whittled down trouble spots<br />

such as love handles, podgy<br />

bellies or back flab, look into<br />

Accent Prime X (almalasers.<br />

com, drmedispa.com). The<br />

non-invasive treatment uses<br />

ultrasound technology to<br />

break down stubborn fatty<br />

deposits and radiofrequency<br />

to stimulates collagen in<br />

the skin, producing a lifting<br />

and tightening effect. Some<br />

patients have also noticed a<br />

reduction in the appearance<br />

of cellulite. To reap the full<br />

benefits, be sure to book a few<br />

months before your wedding<br />

day as four to six sessions<br />

spaced a week apart are<br />

recommended.<br />

Body Toning<br />

If you’ve only got months<br />

or even weeks to go before<br />

the Big Day, Emsculpt Neo<br />

offers fast-track toning. The<br />

30-minute treatment sculpts<br />

the body by using highintensity<br />

focused<br />

electromagnetic technology<br />

to stimulate the muscles.<br />

Just one 30-minute session<br />

is said to be equivalent to<br />

20,000 crunches or squats.<br />

It’s ideal for those who are in<br />

fairly good shape, but have<br />

resistant spots on the thighs,<br />

buttock, tummy and arms<br />

that need toning.<br />

TRIED AND TRUSTED DOCTORS<br />

• Dr Preema Vig (drpreema.co.uk) Carries out skilful work and subtle<br />

transformations with anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers from her<br />

chic Park Lane clinic.<br />

• Dr Munir Somji (drmedispa.com) has a calm and confident manner that<br />

will make you feel instantly reassured. His Knightsbridge, Marylebone and<br />

Loughton based DrMediSpa clinics are equipped with the latest devices.<br />

• Dr Amiee Vyas (doctoramiee.com) is an expert in treating South Asian<br />

skin. She offers online consultations and an array of treatments from<br />

cosmeceutical skincare, medical-grade peels and skin-boosting injectables.<br />

• Miss Sherina Balaratnam (sthetics.co.uk) is a former NHS surgeon who<br />

runs the multi-award winning S-Thetics clinic, which is home to the very<br />

latest medical aesthetic devices for the face and body, including high-tech<br />

facials, radiofrequency and laser skin resurfacing.


BEAUTYSolution<br />

Your bridal beauty dilemmas solved by Anjana Gosai<br />

TWEAKMENT TIME<br />

I want to<br />

have some<br />

Botox and<br />

lip filler<br />

before my<br />

wedding.<br />

When is the best time to<br />

have these treatments?<br />

I spoke to Knightsbridgebased<br />

cosmetic doctor<br />

Dr Divya Veluvolu. She<br />

recommends starting<br />

anti-wrinkle treatments<br />

at least two months before<br />

the wedding followed by a<br />

review after three weeks,<br />

then another review<br />

three weeks prior to the<br />

wedding. “The botulinum<br />

toxin (Botox) takes time to<br />

marinate, but also for the<br />

muscles to be controlled in<br />

a way that looks natural,”<br />

explains Dr Divya. Dermal<br />

fillers, be it for volume loss<br />

or lip augmentation, should<br />

be carried out two months<br />

prior to the wedding.<br />

“Fillers should be built in<br />

stages to achieve natural<br />

results. It takes three to<br />

four weeks for the filler to<br />

settle into the facial tissues,”<br />

she adds.<br />

Book a consultation with<br />

Dr Divya, 07462382670.<br />

Tummy trimmer<br />

I have tried everything to trim down<br />

my tummy, can you recommend any<br />

treatments?<br />

Stubborn abdominal fat can be hard<br />

to treat. I was impressed with the<br />

FDA-approved Emerald Laser (www.<br />

emeraldlaser.com). The 30-minute painless<br />

procedure emits green-hued beams to the<br />

target area. The beams make tiny pores<br />

in the fat cell membrane, emulsifying the<br />

fat, which then leaves the body via the<br />

lymphatic system. Emerald can be used on<br />

the stomach, thighs, hips and underarms.<br />

A Harvard study saw an average loss of<br />

3.51 inches over two weeks in the waist,<br />

hip, and thigh areas. Dr Munir Somji, who<br />

was one of the first to offer the treatment<br />

at his Dr. Medispa clinic recommends<br />

two sessions per week. He says: “Since it<br />

doesn’t generate heat, there is no chance<br />

of burns or freezing and it shrinks fat cells<br />

rather than destroying them, so there’s no<br />

side-effects or downtime.” If it’s toning you<br />

are after, look into Emsculpt, which uses<br />

high-intensity focused electromagnetic<br />

technology to trigger 20,000 muscle<br />

contractions in one 30-minute session.<br />

You’ll notice the area looking trimmer<br />

in a matter of days. Both treatments are<br />

available at www.drmedispa.com<br />

Whether you<br />

TRY IT want to try<br />

something new or<br />

are considering hair colour for the first time,<br />

try Stil (www.stil-salon.com). Spearheaded by<br />

award-winning colour guru, Christel Barron-<br />

Hough, the chic salon offers meticulous<br />

consultations looking at eye colour,<br />

complexion, face shape and personality,<br />

which results in the most flattering hues. Be<br />

sure to book in at least two weeks before your<br />

wedding day to allow the colour to settle.<br />

HAIR HERO<br />

The ends of my hair are<br />

really dry. I have tried<br />

masks and leave-in<br />

conditioners but nothing<br />

seems to work. Please help!<br />

I often have the same issue<br />

with my coloured hair. I<br />

recently discovered K18 Leave-In Molecular<br />

Repair Hair Mask (£8.95, www.k18hair.com)<br />

and was super amazed with how soft and shiny<br />

it left my hair. The intensive mask<br />

uses a patented molecule, which is<br />

designed to reverse hair damage<br />

from colour, harmful chemicals<br />

and heat, in just four minutes.<br />

K18 renews hair from the inside<br />

by repairing broken keratin chains<br />

and leaving strands stronger,<br />

smoother and softer.<br />

SENSITIVE ISSUE<br />

I have sensitive skin and am always<br />

recommended medical body washes. Can<br />

you suggest something that<br />

doesn’t feel so clinical?<br />

Check out Olverum<br />

Body Cleanser (£26.50,<br />

harveynichols.com) which took<br />

five years to develop by brand<br />

founder Dominic Hawksley, a<br />

sufferer of enduringly sensitive<br />

skin. It’s sulphate-free and<br />

contains avocado oil plus the<br />

most soothing, aromatic blend of<br />

essential oils to ease tension.<br />

TO SOLVE YOUR BRIDAL BEAUTY WORRIES EMAIL: ANJANA@ASIANA.TV


The Mane<br />

ATTRACTION<br />

Own the limelight with luxurious<br />

locks by celebrity hairstylist Dar<br />

There is only one Dar. A legend in the industry, with<br />

over 30 years of experience of beautifying celebrities,<br />

royalty and real women, he is the ‘go to’ hair designer<br />

when you want to feel like a million dollars. The A’list<br />

experience begins the moment you walk through<br />

the door of his glamorous salon based inside the prestigious<br />

five star Taj 51 Buckingham Gate which feels like a palace. With<br />

a flower wall backdrop and the choice of having your hair styled<br />

either in a spacious, communal area or inside your own private VIP<br />

room, pampering takes priority. Dar elaborates: ‘Whether you have<br />

a special event, are hosting a dinner party, going on a date night or<br />

are getting married, if your hair looks perfect, you’ll ooze confidence<br />

and sexiness and that’s what I gift to all my clients; the feeling that<br />

they are the most beautiful woman in the world.”<br />

Dar’s clientele includes Bollywood superstars Kajol and<br />

Jacqueline Fernandez, Hollywood actress Goldie Hawn, Miss<br />

England Bhasha Mukerjee, HRH Sultanah Kalsom, Queen of<br />

Pahang, Malaysia, Naughty Boy and Prime Minister of Pakistan<br />

Imran Khan. You too can experience the reason they go to him when<br />

they have a special occasion, when you book him for your bridal<br />

hair; a luxurious experience whether you pop in for a blow dry or<br />

book a complete bridal transformation.<br />

What they’re saying about Dar<br />

Check out Google reviews to see the consistent high-ratings<br />

Dar gets from all his clients like this one from January 2022:<br />

“5 stars aren’t enough! Absolutely loving my<br />

new haircut by Dar. I’ve always been nervous<br />

about going to salons due to bad experiences so<br />

subsequently, I didn’t get my haircut for a few<br />

years. When I first spoke to Dar before my visit,<br />

he was very personable and talked me through his<br />

style and techniques. From the moment I walked<br />

in the salon, he was charming and very attentive.<br />

I felt so relaxed. Throughout my appointment he<br />

taught me how to look after my hair at home;<br />

from achieving gorgeous, lasting styles, to which<br />

products to use to help and protect my hair. Dar is<br />

more than a hairdresser/stylist, he is an innovative<br />

artist and a true professional who has incredible<br />

passion for his profession and cares about his<br />

clients”


SALON TALK WITH DAR<br />

The Celebrity Hair Stylist answers your questions<br />

BEAUTY<br />

I’m growing my hair for my wedding day, what<br />

can I do to help it look healthy?<br />

Firstly, congratulations! This is a very exciting<br />

time for you and I’m pleased to hear you’re<br />

already thinking about your hair. This is something I<br />

recommend to all my clients, your hair needs to be treated<br />

with regular TLC to maintain its condition. My suggestion is<br />

to find a reliable hairdresser at a local salon. Let them know<br />

that you’re getting married. They will start taking care of<br />

your hair by introducing good conditioning treatments,<br />

ensuring it is well moisturised in the lead up to your Big<br />

Day so that when it arrives, you’re ready to be under the<br />

spotlight.<br />

I’ve got three functions and I don’t know if I<br />

need to book a hair stylist for all three days or<br />

whether the style will hold?<br />

I advise booking a hairdresser for all three days.<br />

Having your hair done is part of your bridal pampering<br />

so don’t miss this step. We work so hard in our daily lives<br />

but your wedding should be about comfort, excitement<br />

and the happiness of this once in a lifetime occasion so<br />

don’t scrimp by only booking one day. It’s important<br />

that you’re fully rested and get your sleep during your<br />

wedding and you can only do that if you’re comfortable<br />

and not worrying about caring for your hair – leave that<br />

to a professional. Each morning when you’re with your<br />

hairstylist it’s a chance to slow down and catch your breath<br />

so enjoy this opportunity.<br />

I want to treat my mother to a pampering salon<br />

experience but she’s never been to hairdressers<br />

before so I’m not sure how to persuade her,<br />

what do you suggest?<br />

What a wonderful thing to do for your mother. I have<br />

one suggestion. Bring her to the Dar Blo Bar & Spa at the<br />

beautiful Taj 51 Buckingham Gate. She’ll be treated like an<br />

A’list celebrity, I’ll personally see to it myself! I’ve also styled<br />

many women including Kajol and Goldie Hawn but I take<br />

just as much time and effort on every client ensuring they<br />

all feel a million dollars. Why not take her out to lunch at<br />

the Taj and bring her to the salon as an additional surprise.<br />

DAR’S TOP TIPS FOR ENJOYING<br />

YOUR WEDDING DAY<br />

Styling 100s of brides over the years means Dar has a<br />

wealth of experience in understanding the needs of brides.<br />

Here he shares some of the advice he gives his clients:<br />

Get a copy of <strong>Asiana</strong>: As soon as<br />

they say yes I tell all brides to get<br />

<strong>Asiana</strong> <strong>Wedding</strong> Magazine, it’s their<br />

A-Z guide on planning their Big Day.<br />

Have a confidant: This is your<br />

shoulder to lean on. It could be a<br />

relative or best friend. From choosing<br />

your dress, jewellery, venue and<br />

even underwear, they will hold your<br />

hand until the last minute and it’s a<br />

great relief to bounce your ideas with<br />

somebody you trust and have known<br />

for a while.<br />

Have a separate MUA and hair<br />

stylist: If someone specialise in<br />

make-up and they do dressing hair<br />

on the side is that the best you<br />

deserve? It takes years to become<br />

a hairdresser they have training<br />

and experience to give you the best<br />

experience so if you can afford both<br />

book both.<br />

Enjoy the day: Don’t look back on<br />

your photos and regret that you were<br />

worrying about the catering rather<br />

than enjoying the moment. On the<br />

day forget about everything else,<br />

leave that to the experienced team<br />

and enjoy soaking up the happiest,<br />

most romantic, most beautiful day of<br />

your life.<br />

Book your appointment with Dar:<br />

Hair By Dar Salon, Taj 51 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6AF<br />

www.hairbydar.com


HEALTH<br />

&Wellbeing<br />

Give your mind and body some TLC<br />

Edited by Anjana Gosai<br />

Inner healing<br />

Ila’s Kunye Massage is just the therapies to balance the meridian<br />

tonic when you’re feeling tired or system and make you feel like<br />

overwhelmed. The deeply-holistic yourself again. Expect Tibetan<br />

treatment utilises potent organic cupping, kneading and acupressure<br />

essential oils, many of which are on the body and scalp along with<br />

inherent to the Himalayas, to warm heart crystals that are<br />

stabilise the body and mind. Rose strategically placed over the body to<br />

geranium, lemongrass, tulsi and leave you fully energised.<br />

lavender oils smell divine and Find your nearest spa:<br />

are used with a host of healing www.ila-spa.com<br />

HEALTHY HOT DRINKS<br />

Reclaim your calm<br />

Are you one of those people that have no<br />

time to slot supplements into your regime?<br />

These vegan Deja Life wellness lattes<br />

are a great alternative to pills. Available in<br />

Love Cacoa, Glow Wild and Gold Powder (£30<br />

each, www.deja.life) options, each blend is packed<br />

with antioxidants and ashwagandha – a well know<br />

ayurvedic herb that boasts an array of health benefits.<br />

Stir two teaspoons into your favourite milk to help boost<br />

immunity, balance hormones and improve mood.<br />

Mauli’s Sleep Dharma Calm Balm (£44) has been designed<br />

to help you recentre yourself in moments of physical or<br />

emotional unrest. The therapeutic balm is loaded with<br />

a fusion of rare adaptogens of ashwagandha, brahmi,<br />

chamomile and sage to calm the nervous system and<br />

balance the mind. Massage onto the palms or pulse points<br />

and notice tension melt away.<br />

PACK A PUNCH<br />

As far as workouts go, boxing is a great way to<br />

burn fat, build muscle, keep fit and unleash some<br />

pent-up pre-wedding aggression.<br />

You’ll be targeting your whole<br />

body, including upper, lower<br />

and core. Working out at home?<br />

Try Boxing via the Peloton<br />

App (www.onepeloton.co.uk/<br />

app), which includes 20-minute<br />

classes covering shadowboxing<br />

fundamentals, footwork and<br />

defence with an expert instructor.<br />

Prefer to go it alone? Invest in a<br />

punch bag and get jabbing. Try<br />

Mirafit Freestanding Punch Bag<br />

(£139, www.mirafit.co.uk), which is made with<br />

PU leather with a base that can be filled with<br />

sand or water ensuring it withstands punches<br />

and kicks.<br />

FITNESS FABRIC<br />

The clever and weightless Pro Skins Slim High<br />

Waist Compression Leggings (£49.95, www.<br />

proskins.co) come infused with skincare<br />

ingredients that are massaged into the skin while<br />

you move. Ingredients like retinol, vitamin E, aloe<br />

vera and caffeine help boost circulation and keep<br />

the skin looking its best. Perfect for low impact<br />

workouts like yoga and pilates, Lululemon Align<br />

Pants (£88, www.lululemon.co.uk) are made with<br />

stretchable Nulu fabric, which is super soft with<br />

an almost second-skin like feel.


HEALTH & FITNESS<br />

TRIED, TESTED<br />

& OBSESSED:<br />

Ushvani Spa<br />

You’ll feel immersed in serenity<br />

the moment you step inside this<br />

luxurious Malaysian day spa where the<br />

focus is on slowing down and being<br />

pampered. Ahead of your chosen<br />

treatment you’re invited to take a<br />

dip in the warm and soothing spa<br />

plunge pool and steam rooms before<br />

you surrender to the calming touch<br />

of your therapist. If you’re visiting<br />

with a friend or partner, book the<br />

Amara ‘love’ Suite for the ultimate<br />

relaxing retreat. All massages last<br />

a minimum of 90 minutes giving<br />

you optimal relaxation. Signature<br />

treatments include the heavenly Malay<br />

massage where you’ll receive topto-toe<br />

attention. A scalp massage<br />

and reflexology with a velvety soft<br />

ointment are highlights, alongside<br />

a full body massage leaving you<br />

feeling like you’re in a cocoon of<br />

bliss. Afterwards chill out in Ushvani’s<br />

candlelit tea lounge with a comforting<br />

cup of hibiscus tea.<br />

www.ushvani.com<br />

Recharge with IV<br />

When you consider the stresses that come<br />

with planning a wedding, it’s no wonder many<br />

brides and grooms reach their Big Day feeling<br />

run down and exhausted. Recharge your body<br />

and mind with a customised Intravenous<br />

infusion. IV drips work by delivering<br />

essential minerals and vitamins directly into<br />

the bloodstream, allowing the cells to take<br />

immediate advantage. If you’re exhausted<br />

look for vitamins C and B12 plus magnesium<br />

to replenish energy levels, while B-complex<br />

can help to calm nerves and improve<br />

concentration.<br />

Try it at www.zenhealthcare.co.uk<br />

LOVE YOUR LYMPH<br />

The lymphatic system is our body’s built-in-detoxifier, working to<br />

get rid of waste, toxins and excess fluid. “Blockages in our lymphatic<br />

system can lead to migraines, breakouts, tiredness and<br />

bloating,” says lymphatic drainage expert Dimple Amani.<br />

Loved by Sonam Kapoor and a host of influencers, Dimple’s<br />

healing lymphatic drainage is a must for anyone suffering<br />

from these symptoms. The Amani Method involves Brazilian<br />

and Ayurvedic massage techniques using her magic hands<br />

combined with a Gua Sha-like body sculpting tool and a<br />

warm Ayurvedic oil filled with more than 20 herbs. It instantly<br />

removes excess fluid from the body and works especially<br />

well to de-puff the stomach and legs. The temporary<br />

slimming effect is an added bonus. www.dimpleamani.com<br />

POWER SHOTS<br />

Blended with vitamin and mineral rich fruits and vegetables<br />

carefully selected for their health benefits – the B Fresh<br />

Wellness Shots have been designed with nutritionist<br />

Matt Jones. The Focus, Relax and Sleep cold-pressed juice<br />

shots can be sipped on daily and come filled with natural<br />

goodness like flaxseed to ease inflammation, stress-reducing<br />

ashwagandha and relaxation-inducing lemon balm. Available<br />

for nationwide delivery, (£59 for an 8 day supply)<br />

www.b-fresh.co.uk<br />

TRY IT<br />

Power your workouts with Artah<br />

Cellular Hydration (£32, www.artah.<br />

co). Loaded with<br />

Peruvian maca and insulin,<br />

this sugar and sweetenerfree<br />

electrolyte powder<br />

improves recovery, boosts<br />

energy and supports<br />

mineral balance in low<br />

carbohydrate diets.


Fall in love with<br />

YOUR SMILE<br />

Simple cosmetic procedures can make a big<br />

difference as Dentist Dr Kal Prajapat explains<br />

About Dr Kalpesh Prajapat<br />

Dr Kal was awarded ‘Best Young<br />

Dentist Midlands - Highly Commended’<br />

and was shortlisted as a finalist for Best<br />

Young Dentist UK for two years running<br />

at the 2019 and 2020 Dental awards. He is<br />

also a best-selling Amazon <strong>Aut</strong>hor and the<br />

co-founder of www.iwanttobeadentist.com,<br />

an educational platform for future dentists.<br />

It’s well-known that when meeting someone new, one of the<br />

first things that we notice about them is their smile. In fact,<br />

the smile is also one of the most powerful traits determining<br />

attractiveness. So it’s not surprising that so many brides and<br />

grooms-to-be seek cosmetic dental treatment ahead of their<br />

Big Day, to ensure they look their best when it matters most in front<br />

of all those cameras. That’s where Dr Kal comes in. Kalpesh has an<br />

enormous passion for dental excellence and has a special interest in<br />

cosmetic dental treatments including composite bonding, Invisalign<br />

teeth straightening, ceramic veneers, teeth whitening and smile<br />

reconstruction with dental implants. In short all the procedures that<br />

could make a huge difference to improving you life your self confidence<br />

and your smile.<br />

Dr Kal shares his top five healthy<br />

hygiene habits for brides and groom<br />

Buy a pressure sensitive toothbrush<br />

1<br />

Using an electric toothbrush with a<br />

pressure sensitive function is a must. Electric<br />

toothbrushes help to remove more plaque<br />

bacteria than a regular toothbrush, the key<br />

cause of gum bleeding, bad breath and<br />

staining. A pressure alert sensor will help to<br />

prevent harm caused by over brushing. My<br />

personal favorite would be Oral B IO.<br />

Use interdental cleaning aids<br />

2<br />

Did you know a toothbrush only cleans<br />

three of the five surfaces of your teeth? To<br />

clean all tooth surfaces an interdental aid must<br />

be used, ideally twice daily. A silky floss can<br />

help glide between tightly placed teeth but an<br />

interdental brush is ideal for back teeth and<br />

bigger gaps. The key is to get a tight fitting<br />

brush to clean between teeth. My top tip is to<br />

add toothpaste on these bristles before you<br />

use them. My favourites are Oral B Pro-expert<br />

floss and Tepe Easypick.<br />

Try a tongue cleaner<br />

3<br />

The tongue can be a large store of<br />

bacteria which can contribute to poor odour.<br />

Daily tongue cleansing is a good habit to<br />

maintain fresh breath and avoid a coated<br />

tongue.<br />

4<br />

Book your professional hygiene visit<br />

Seeing a dental hygienist can make a<br />

huge impact to your oral health. Hygienists<br />

are equipped with advanced tools to blast<br />

through deep staining and remove hard tartar<br />

build up helping to brighten and freshen your<br />

smile.<br />

Be mindful of your diet<br />

5<br />

We all know red wine, tea and coffee<br />

can lead to staining. But did you know<br />

that ‘no added sugar’ drinks can also be<br />

harmful? due to their erosive potential it<br />

can cause the enamel to weaken. Using<br />

a straw can reduce harmful damage and<br />

reduce staining. Also drinking cooler fluids<br />

is better than warmer, for reducing damage<br />

by erosion.


CHOOSING YOUR TREATMENT<br />

Dr Kal shares the most common treatments requested by couples<br />

DENTAL<br />

INVISALIGN TEETH STRAIGHTENING<br />

What to expect<br />

Invisalign is a clear alternative to metal<br />

braces. It’s the most advanced, near<br />

invisible aligner, designed for teeth<br />

straightening. Over 10 million people<br />

worldwide have benefitted from Invisalign<br />

and it can be used to treat overcrowding,<br />

spaced teeth, improve the bite position and<br />

many other dental issues.<br />

When you’ll see results<br />

Invisalign uses a series of aligners to move<br />

teeth gradually into a straighter, desirable<br />

position. Each aligner is typically worn<br />

for seven days and a series of aligners are<br />

COMPOSITE BONDING<br />

What to expect<br />

Composite bonding is<br />

where a tooth coloured<br />

material is sculpted<br />

onto the natural tooth<br />

to improve its cosmetic<br />

appearance. It is cost<br />

effective, minimally<br />

invasive and is used for<br />

correcting small changes<br />

in tooth shape, size, and<br />

symmetry. Common<br />

reasons for treatment<br />

include fractures, small<br />

imperfections, minor<br />

gaps, chips and uneven<br />

edges. Composite<br />

bonding is also commonly<br />

performed after invisalign<br />

to enhance the smile.<br />

There is no pain involved.<br />

In most cases a dental<br />

injection is not even<br />

needed. There is no harm<br />

to the natural tooth as the<br />

material is layered onto<br />

of natural tooth surface<br />

without drilling.<br />

When you’ll see results<br />

Composite bonding is done<br />

in a single visit usually,<br />

and can take up to two<br />

to three hours only. This<br />

gives you an instant smile<br />

makeover with no harm or<br />

no injection. On average<br />

given for you to use and change at home.<br />

Treatment can be as quick as 12 weeks.<br />

Patient aftercare<br />

You also don’t need to have multiple visits<br />

to the dentist either. They use a digital scan<br />

box to monitor your teeth movement to<br />

ensure it’s super accurate which reduces<br />

your need to attend the clinic. You only<br />

attend at the start and a couple of times<br />

throughout for monitoring.<br />

Cost<br />

Invisalign starts from £2500 or from £100<br />

per month over 24 months.<br />

bonding lasts between<br />

three to five years, in this<br />

time the material will<br />

require maintenance.<br />

Patient aftercare<br />

Six to 12 monthly polishes<br />

are advised to maintain<br />

their shine and reduce<br />

stain build up. Excellent<br />

oral hygiene and diet<br />

control is advised to<br />

provide long lasting<br />

results.<br />

Cost Composite bonding<br />

start from £299 per tooth<br />

PROFESSIONAL<br />

TEETH WHITENING<br />

What to expect<br />

Teeth whitening is an extremely simple yet<br />

highly effective minimally invasive method<br />

of brightening your smile. The most common<br />

form of tooth whitening involves a twoweek<br />

home treatment kit. This kit includes<br />

whitening gels and custom-made tooth<br />

whitening trays. The trays are worn at night<br />

while you sleep and the gel works by breaking<br />

down the discolouration.<br />

When you’ll see results<br />

Guaranteed whiter teeth can be expected<br />

with the treatment. Usually most patients<br />

will see a noticeable improvement within<br />

two weeks. Darker discolouration may take<br />

longer to whiten but 90% of patients will see a<br />

difference within the first two weeks.<br />

Patient aftercare<br />

Whitening results are largely dependent on<br />

lifestyle factors such as diet, oral hygiene and<br />

smoking. Most patients will be satisfied with<br />

their result for up to four years. Long lasting<br />

white smiles can be maintained by topping up<br />

whitening once every three-six months.<br />

Cost<br />

Whitening fees begin from £350<br />

Scan QR code<br />

Watch Dr Kal perform LIVE<br />

To book an appointment with Dr Kal visit<br />

www.drkal.co.uk or Whatsapp +447835798611<br />

Clinic locations: Birmingham<br />

(Sheldon Dental Centre, 26 Sheaf Lane,<br />

B25 3HD) and Stafford (Abbey House Dental,<br />

13 Lichfield Street, St1<strong>58</strong>NA)


Groomingnotes<br />

FIVE STAR TREATMENT FOR THE MAN OF THE MOMENT<br />

TRY IT<br />

Is your skin easily irritated? Gingerlily Man<br />

Mulberry Silk Pillowcase (£66) is said to limit the<br />

amount of friction the skin is exposed to during sleep,<br />

helping to prevent irritation and pulling.<br />

Hair hero<br />

Healthy hair begins at the root.<br />

If dandruff is a problem, give Inkey<br />

List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Scalp<br />

Scrub (£12.99) a go. It’s loaded with<br />

glycolic acid to remove dead skin,<br />

Mediterranean microalgae to regulate<br />

sebum levels, biodegradable castor<br />

beads to enhance exfoliation, plus<br />

natural sugars to balance and<br />

maintain scalp health. It works<br />

wonders to deep clean the<br />

scalp and sweep away<br />

build-up.<br />

Multi-tasking balm<br />

Feed Your Skin<br />

If you find regular moisturisers too rich or greasy,<br />

try this lightweight gel formula that feels like a<br />

burst of water for thirsty skin. Zelens Acqua<br />

Shiso Hydrating Gel Cream (£65, www.zelens.<br />

com) contains Japanese mint, which provides antiinflammatory<br />

and antibacterial benefits along with<br />

moisture-enhancing hyaluronic acid and glycerin.<br />

Loaded with skin-softening shea, mango seed and kokum<br />

butters, the La Labo Multi-Purpose Balm (£16, Lelabofragrances.<br />

com) is gently fragranced with the brand’s signature<br />

grooming scent of fresh bergamot and lavender,<br />

edged with the coolness of violet and tonka bean.<br />

Use it to tame unruly hair, stubble and to hydrate<br />

dry skin patches on the go.<br />

SENSUAL<br />

SCENT<br />

Part of the<br />

new Tom Ford<br />

Enigmatic Woods<br />

Collection, Santal<br />

Blush (£195) is<br />

a sensual fusion<br />

of sandalwood<br />

and exotic spices,<br />

enhanced with<br />

soothing ylang<br />

ylang, warm<br />

cinnamon, and<br />

sumptuous woods.<br />

The perfect winter<br />

wedding scent.<br />

Words: Anjana Gosai


Happy Hour<br />

Whether whisky is your weakness<br />

or you prefer to have some rum<br />

in your tum every groom and his<br />

groomsmen need a hip flask to<br />

hand. A good drinking vessel can<br />

go a long way on the Big Day<br />

and this 14-carat gold-plated hip<br />

flask by VISKI (£66.45) is ideal. Its<br />

rounded design makes it easy to<br />

slip into your pocket so if you need<br />

a swig of Dutch courage before the speeches you know<br />

where to reach for it. www.thedesigngiftshop.com<br />

BRASSED OFF<br />

Bring the giggles to the gang. Gift this<br />

humorous gold foghorn (£21) to your<br />

best man to help him keep the boys in<br />

check during your stag do. One blast<br />

from the horn and they’ll know who’s<br />

in charge. It’s a replica of an original<br />

horn used by sailors to notify each<br />

other of hazardous weather and it will<br />

no doubt attract its own memorable<br />

tales from the evening.<br />

www.thenauticalcompany.com<br />

Your wedding day is<br />

an excuse to invest in<br />

a piece of history. Sure<br />

you can check your<br />

mobile for the time but<br />

where’s the sophistication? These mechanical<br />

masterpieces, popular with the elite in the early<br />

20th century, carry prestige and when hung<br />

from a chain will make you feel every inch<br />

the gentlemen. An accessory that will bring<br />

a timeless charm to your wedding photos<br />

the Mount Royal gold-plated Double Hunter<br />

pocket watch (£110) can be engraved with a<br />

personal message too. www.farrar-tanner.co.uk<br />

GROOM<br />

Accessories<br />

MAN MUST HAVES<br />

THE GROOM<br />

Stay Grounded<br />

Good coffee takes time, so don’t cut<br />

corners. Enjoy the aroma of a fresh<br />

brew each morning while you work on<br />

your wedding checklist. Use these quiet<br />

moments to carve out some for yourself<br />

as you sip from the drip. The Hario Bloom<br />

coffee drip kit (£299) retains the full flavour<br />

of the coffee beans so you can guarantee a<br />

caffeine kick that hits you when you need<br />

it. The kit includes three blends and a smart<br />

server.<br />

www.bridgecoffeeroasters.co.uk<br />

BOXED IN<br />

For the suave gent who has an eye for style<br />

Handmade from one of the rarest<br />

woods in the world Macassar Ebony,<br />

this heirloom watch box (£3200)<br />

is a modern-day treasure chest.<br />

Limited edition in design, it stores<br />

watches and essential accessories<br />

such as cufflinks and rings ensuring<br />

your valuables are safe inside chic, lockable<br />

storage. www.iwoodesign.com<br />

It’s About Time<br />

Mindful Moments<br />

Press pause and take a moment to<br />

recharge and reflect – wedding planning<br />

can take its toll. The only way<br />

to survive is to slow down and<br />

aromatherapy can help. Essential<br />

oils can reduce any stresses<br />

you’re experiencing and keep you<br />

energised between tasks. We love<br />

the Young Living range (£41<br />

each) which features specially<br />

blended portable aromas.<br />

www.youngliving.com<br />

Outfit by Sache


HONEYMOON Notes<br />

The world’s most romantic escapes, new openings and travel essentials<br />

NEW OPENINGS<br />

<strong>Asiana</strong> recommends:<br />

Anantara World Islands<br />

Dubai Resort, UAE<br />

Hop on a boat from mainland Dubai to Anantara World<br />

Islands resort where you can indulge in ultimate privacy.<br />

Bask in the sun on the private beach whilst gazing at the<br />

iconic Dubai skyline. Pick from a range of luxurious rooms,<br />

suites and villas featuring private pools and sea views. Give<br />

your tastebuds a treat with dishes at the on-site restaurants<br />

showcasing local and Mediterranean cuisine, as well as<br />

private ‘dine by design’ concepts on the beach. The relaxing<br />

ambience continues in the soothing spa, featuring a variety<br />

of treatments. Daily boats are available to transport you from<br />

the island to the city and back.<br />

• www.anantara.com/en/world-islands-dubai<br />

SWITZERLAND<br />

Skiing enthusiasts should head to Six<br />

Senses Crans-Montana. Swiss chalet<br />

architecture meets Alpine sophistication<br />

at this five-star mountaintop retreat. Hit<br />

the slopes then recover in style at the<br />

2,000 square metre spa. There’s also a<br />

rooftop pool, Alpine garden and openair-cinema<br />

to enjoy.<br />

www.sixsenses.com<br />

VIETNAM<br />

There are no rooms at Regent Phu<br />

Quoc, just stunning suites and villas all<br />

with private pools and an airy aesthetic.<br />

Expect six restaurants and bars, a<br />

comprehensive spa and stretches of<br />

white sandy beaches. Honeymooners<br />

will love the romantic offerings such as<br />

a Robinson Crusoe picnic on a deserted<br />

island and oceanside dinners.<br />

www.phuquoc.regenthotels.com<br />

Get Packing<br />

What to take on your great getaway<br />

Their Nibs nightwear are a<br />

treat to slip into. Pick from<br />

soft satin or comfy cotton<br />

sets with gorgeous hand<br />

painted prints. Peacock<br />

Feather Shorties (£36,<br />

www.theirnibs.com)<br />

With a distinctive design, the Antler<br />

Clifton (£159, antler.co.uk) is everything<br />

you want from a carry on - strong but<br />

light. Its hard polycarbonate shell is built<br />

to last and will protect your belongings<br />

from damage. Inside, it’s spacious,<br />

allowing you to easily cram a week’s<br />

worth of essentials. Clever 360-degree<br />

wheels means it glides like a dream.<br />

Stow your travel essentials away in<br />

this soft leather Passport Folio (£49,<br />

www.notanotherbill.com). Available<br />

in seven shades and you can also<br />

personalise it with your new initials.<br />

SOUTH AFRICA<br />

The Homestead is an ultra-luxury<br />

eco lodge on the Nambiti Private<br />

Game Reserve offering huge suites<br />

with butler service, private pools and<br />

crackling fires. Spot the Big Five along<br />

with species of birds and plants native<br />

to the region. Newly-weds can learn<br />

wildlife photography skills and partake<br />

in cooking lessons.<br />

www.homesteadlodge.com<br />

Words: Anjana Gosai


HOTEL OF THE SEASON:<br />

THE GALATA ISTANBUL<br />

MGALLERY HOTEL<br />

You’re guaranteed to find<br />

Turkish delight inside the luxury<br />

Galata Istanbul MGallery Hotel<br />

and not just on the dessert<br />

table. Anatolian charm, design<br />

and attention to detail are felt in every aspect<br />

of your experience here; from its bright and<br />

spacious art-deco inspired bedrooms to its<br />

grand historic Cesme Hammam which dates<br />

back 300 years. The MGallery which is the<br />

oldest of four Galata hotels in the collection is<br />

the most exclusive boutique hotel in the city<br />

of Istanbul. Housed in a former bank there are<br />

quirky features like safety boxes in the hotel<br />

lobby and nods to the heritage of the space<br />

once being a newspaper printing house too.<br />

Combining culture and heritage with grand<br />

design, it’s the number one must-stay place<br />

for honeymooners and is the most-desirable<br />

hotel of the moment in Turkey.<br />

Elegant accommodation<br />

The deluxe rooms and suites have fresh,<br />

contemporary interiors and come with large<br />

LED televisions and espresso machines.<br />

Furniture and styling have a stylish art-deco<br />

theme with details like wooden shutters<br />

and original wallpaper, you’ll feel like you’re<br />

staying somewhere truly special. You’ll also<br />

have a private terrace where you can take in<br />

the beauty of this magical city.<br />

Pampering Perfection<br />

Guests are invited to use the historic Cesme Hammam<br />

and book in for a complete Turkish Bath & Spa experience<br />

where you’ll be immersed in water therapy, giving you a<br />

chance to recharge and refresh after your wedding. It’s<br />

also a popular spot with bridal parties so if you’re planning<br />

on a destination wedding in Istanbul it’s a great place to<br />

make a private booking so you can all indulge in pampering<br />

treatments followed by lashings of Turkish tea and the most<br />

delectable baklava you’ve ever tried.<br />

HONEYMOON<br />

Divine dining<br />

You’ll find two restaurants and a chic lobby<br />

bar at the hotel. Mesai Restaurant offers<br />

dreamy views of the Old City and is a<br />

romantic spot to enjoy a sundowner cocktail<br />

and tuck into artistic dishes. Mesai Karakoy<br />

served global dishes all day and offers views<br />

over the dramatic Historic Peninsular.<br />

www.thegalataistanbul.com<br />

thegalataistanbul


MR<br />

AND<br />

MRS<br />

Start married life in the lap of luxury...<br />

Shangri-La The Shard, London<br />

Sky high luxury coupled with unrivalled views over the Capital<br />

THE ROOMS AND SUITES<br />

Starting up in the clouds on level 34 – 125<br />

metres high – Shangri La The Shard occupies<br />

18 floors inside the Renzo Piano-designed<br />

skyscraper – the UK’s tallest building. The<br />

hotel is the Hong Kong based Shangri-La’s<br />

first UK outpost, offering exquisite and<br />

spacious rooms with jaw-dropping views.<br />

All 202 rooms are spacious and serene<br />

with a sleek and sophisticated décor<br />

complete with floor to ceiling windows,<br />

which make you feel connected to the<br />

city. There are 17 suites to pick from,<br />

including the London Suite – the place to<br />

book for serious wow-factor. The second<br />

largest suite in the hotel, can be found<br />

on level 38. Luxurious in every way, the<br />

expansive one-bedroom suite features<br />

mood-lighting, a walk-in dressing area,<br />

huge living and dining room, kitchenette, a<br />

spacious marble clad bathroom - complete<br />

with a rain shower, separate tub overlooking<br />

Tower Bridge and The Tower of London,<br />

Acqua Di Parma toiletries and an integrated<br />

television screen in the mirror. You’re<br />

guaranteed a good sleep in the comfy<br />

beds with body-contouring technology,<br />

1,000-threadcount Frette linen and a lavish<br />

pillow menu to pick from.<br />

Telescopes for admiring the views and<br />

fascinating books on London architectural<br />

history are thoughtful additions. London<br />

Suite guests also get exclusive privileges<br />

including a one-way private airport<br />

transfer – ideal for those jetting off on a<br />

honeymoon plus a bottle of Champagne<br />

on arrival. There’s also a Butler service<br />

available upon request.<br />

FACILITIES<br />

This is a hotel where you will want to<br />

enjoy the room rather than explore your<br />

surroundings.<br />

If you do venture out, whizz up to<br />

the 52nd-floor, where you will find the<br />

calming Skypool and Finnish sauna<br />

boasting stunning views of London’s iconic<br />

landmarks. There is also a lounge area and<br />

complimentary teas and fruit to snack on.<br />

This floor is also home to Gong, the highest<br />

hotel bar in Europe. While there’s no spa on<br />

site, you can book a Neal’s Yard massage in<br />

the comfort of your room.<br />

For your evening meal, head to Ting,<br />

which offers European fine-dining with<br />

an Asian twist. Dishes are put together<br />

using plenty of ingredients sourced from<br />

the neighbouring Borough Market. We<br />

recommend the delicious Miso Cod and<br />

Malaysian-style Fried Rice. There’s also a<br />

plant-based menu. If you prefer a more<br />

intimate meal, book Dining in the Sky – this<br />

romantic private dining experience includes<br />

a three-course meal, champagne, wine and<br />

wonderful views.<br />

www.shangri-la.com


FIRST NIGHT<br />

Words: Anjana Gosai<br />

The Loch & The Tyne,<br />

Old Windsor, Berkshire<br />

Five-star food in a gorgeous<br />

countryside inn makes this the<br />

perfect post-wedding getaway<br />

Conveniently located in the pretty village of Old<br />

Windsor, just 20 minutes from Heathrow, this<br />

characterful inn by celebrity chef Adam Handling is<br />

an ideal pit stop for foodies.<br />

The lodge style building complete with two suites,<br />

fire pits, tartan throws (a nod to Handling’s Scottish<br />

heritage) and a large outdoor terrace is an ideal post<br />

wedding getaway for those wanting some seclusion<br />

and serenity after the festivities.<br />

With just two rooms, you’ll feel well looked after,<br />

but be sure to book well in advance as demand is<br />

high. The Loch Suite features a free-standing bath<br />

in the living room, sofa, double bed, shower room,<br />

walls adorned with modern art and a pretty outdoor<br />

terrace with views of the restaurant’s eco-garden.<br />

Little touches like homemade bath salts, hot water<br />

bottles, ready-made Negroni and the most delicious<br />

chunky shortbread, baked daily in-house, will make<br />

your stay all so special.<br />

A chance for you to sample Adam Handling’s<br />

culinary creations should not be overlooked.<br />

Handling has cooked for G7 leaders, he also runs the<br />

Michelin-starred Frog in Covent Garden and Ugly<br />

Butterfly in Cornwall.<br />

The menu at The Loch & The Tyne includes<br />

refined British pub classics made with local<br />

produce and there’s a huge emphasis on sustainable<br />

practices - no food goes to waste here. A lot of the<br />

ingredients are picked from the onsite vegetable<br />

garden and orchid. Highlights from the a la carte<br />

menu include Handling’s famous warm sourdough<br />

with whipped chicken butter and a sprinkle of<br />

crunchy chicken ‘crackling’; decadent cheese<br />

doughnuts topped with lashings of parmesan and a<br />

pretty strawberry trifle scattered with edible petals<br />

on chantilly cream. There are also classic options<br />

like fish and chips and aged rib-eye, which come<br />

with a fine-dining edge.<br />

Once you’ve indulged, hop on one of the Velosophy<br />

bikes, made using recycled Nespresso pods and<br />

explore the nearby countryside.<br />

www.lochandtyne.com


ISLAND PARADISE<br />

Indulge in the simple pleasures of glorious weather, divine<br />

dining and pure unadulterated pampering at the Angsana<br />

Corfu Resort & Spa says Momtaz Begum-Hossain<br />

The first time you spy the impressive<br />

hilltop resort of Angsana Corfu<br />

will be from the plane. It’s the most<br />

striking building on the landscape<br />

as you come to land on the beautiful<br />

island of Corfu. Basking in golden lights it has<br />

an almost heavenly air about it and a celestial<br />

spirit that radiates throughout your stay.<br />

Corfu is the most intriguing of the Greek<br />

islands, nestled in the Ionian Sea and rich<br />

in history and natural wonders. Corfu’s Old<br />

Town is a thriving hub of shops and eateries<br />

adjacent to a picturesque harbour. If you hire<br />

a car you’ll have the freedom to zip around<br />

the island visiting monasteries, beaches and<br />

epic viewpoints; that’s if you can draw yourself<br />

away from the Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa.<br />

Opened in the summer of 2021 in a short space<br />

of time, it has established itself as the most<br />

desirable spot on the island, ideal for a luxurious<br />

honeymoon and a dreamy fairytale wedding in<br />

the Mediterranean.<br />

The resort has a private sandy beach, spa,<br />

several fine dining restaurants and cocktail<br />

bars. Large spacious rooms with balconies are<br />

located in the main building or you can book one<br />

of the hotel’s villas which comes with a private<br />

pool, kitchen and dining area. The concierge<br />

have also designed local walking tours where<br />

you can wander through olive groves and enjoy<br />

mesmerising sunset views.


HONEYMOON<br />

Luxury lodgings & delicious dining<br />

Whether you stay in one of the 37 private villas or in<br />

the main hotel which has 159 luxurious rooms you’ll<br />

experience the five-star treatment that Angsana hotels<br />

around the world are known for, blending Asian hospitality<br />

with local culture. Comfort is a priority and you’ll feel at<br />

ease immediately.<br />

There are four signature restaurants and seven bars<br />

located throughout the resort which have outdoor terraces,<br />

perfect for warm summer evenings. Cuisine includes<br />

Asian fusion dishes and Greek specialities including the<br />

most cooling, thick and moreish tzatziki you’ve ever tried.<br />

Foodies from all over Greece book a table at Botrini’s finedining<br />

restaurant curated by Michelin-star chef Ettore<br />

Botrini and with such highly praised cooking on your<br />

doorstep it would be rude not to visit.<br />

Blissful bathing<br />

Home to the largest infinity pool in Corfu, the hotel’s main<br />

swimming pool is the focal point of the resort. From here<br />

you can look out over breathtaking views while sipping<br />

on a cocktail. If you’re staying in one of the villas that<br />

have a private pool, it’s still worth venturing here for the<br />

experience. The Angsana Spa on site is a must-visit for<br />

honeymooners. Share an indulgent flower petal bath and<br />

enjoy their complete wellness experience which features a<br />

sublime foot rub and relaxing massage.<br />

DESTINATION WEDDINGS AT ANGSANA<br />

CORFU HOTEL & RESORT<br />

Hotel weddings can often take place inside conference facilities which<br />

means guests miss out on the allure and charm of the venue but not<br />

here. <strong>Wedding</strong>s can be held in any area of the hotel you like. Couples are<br />

encouraged to visit and enjoy the facilities before choosing their spot<br />

which could be the alfresco terrace of one of the hotel’s bars, holding a<br />

reception in a restaurant and having a ceremony on Angsana’s private<br />

beach which is exclusive to guests. Our favourite spot though is on the<br />

wooden decks overlooking the hotel’s pool, the light here is stunning with<br />

blue skies as far as the eye can see; it truly is an island paradise.<br />

www.angsana.com/greece/corfu


DEIA<br />

Nestled amongst the majestic<br />

Tramuntana mountains,<br />

yet boasting views of the<br />

sparkling Mediterranean<br />

waters, Deià, is a charming<br />

village that has become a magnet for<br />

celebrities and adventurers as well as a<br />

long-established hub for artistic talent.<br />

Just 45-minutes from Palma Airport,<br />

this region of Majorca is a UNESCO world<br />

heritage site thanks to its picture-perfect<br />

landscapes and lush greenery giving it<br />

an old world, unspoilt feel. With a cluster<br />

of exceptional restaurants, including the<br />

Michelin-starred Es Racó d’es Teix- it’s no<br />

surprise that foodies often make a bee line<br />

for this idyllic municipality.<br />

WHERE TO STAY: La Residencia,<br />

A Belmond Hotel<br />

This rocky hillside town is also home to one<br />

of Majorca’s most desirable properties – La<br />

Residencia, A Belmond Hotel. Furnished<br />

with local antiques, fabrics and over 750<br />

works from local painters, this is a place<br />

which offers high-end luxury but with<br />

a creative soul. Home to an exclusive<br />

suite created by British fashion designer,<br />

Matthew Williamson, La Residencia<br />

unapologetically serves up the very best<br />

of everything from fine dining to spa<br />

indulgence to poolside relaxation and<br />

impeccable service.<br />

Honeymooners will feel a million miles<br />

away from it all amongst the mountains<br />

which, according to local legend, emit<br />

positive, healing energy. Just what you<br />

need after all the excursions that come<br />

with getting hitched. There’s plenty to do<br />

at the hotel once you’ve settled into your<br />

rooms, which are spacious and serene with<br />

MAGNIFICENT<br />

Majorca<br />

Dramatic landscapes, azure<br />

waters and cultural corners<br />

makes this Balearic Island the ideal<br />

honeymoon hotspot, says Anjana Gosai<br />

The largest of the Balearic Islands and blessed with more than 300 sunny days-a-year,<br />

Majorca is a well-established beach, golf and party destination for British holidaymakers.<br />

But venture slightly off the beaten track to the largely unspoilt north west of the Island,<br />

you will find breath-taking coastlines, rugged mountain ranges, towns rich in art and<br />

culture and high-end luxury to rival Europe’s more traditionally-glamorous destinations.<br />

crisp linen and sumptuous pillows.<br />

Bask in the views by the pool, as staff<br />

bring over cooling sorbets along with a tray<br />

of mini Natura Bisse sunscreen.<br />

Pick from a range of therapeutic<br />

treatments at the award-winning spa<br />

or simply chill out in the indoor pool. A<br />

couple’s Citrus Siesta massage on the<br />

alfresco terrace is highly recommended<br />

– it’s the perfect spot to soak in the<br />

spectacular scenery while being pampered.<br />

Art lovers can’t help but adore this place.<br />

Book into a sculpting class with sculptormaestro<br />

Juan Waelder or an art class with<br />

residence artist Alan Hydes, who has some<br />

fascinating anecdotes to share about his<br />

celebrity clients. The ‘cava’ masterclass<br />

with resident sommelier is also popular.<br />

Those who prefer adventure can hire a<br />

Vespa to explore or venture out for a hike<br />

with expert guide, Eduardo.<br />

For a memorable afternoon, take the<br />

complimentary shuttle from the hotel down<br />

to Ca’s Patro March . This restaurant sits<br />

so close to the crashing waves on a tiny cove<br />

known as Cala Deià, that you have to time<br />

your walk across the pebbles from the path<br />

to reach this rustic seafood eatery, in order<br />

to avoid the tides.<br />

Evenings at ‘La Res’ are magical and<br />

best enjoyed sipping a cocktail in the<br />

citrus and ancient olive tree lined gardens<br />

before an indulgent dinner at one of the<br />

restaurants. The fine-dining El Olivo,<br />

set in a 17th-century olive mill, serves<br />

Majorcan breads and catch-of-the-day<br />

delights such as prawn ceviche with<br />

seaweed sour cream. The mountain-facing<br />

Café Miro comes to life with live music<br />

and they serve an unforgettable selection<br />

of traditional desserts. La Residencia is<br />

known as Mallorca’s grand dame and a<br />

vast proportion of guests return here year<br />

after year - it just has that effect on you.<br />

www.belmond.com


HONEYMOON<br />

PORT DE SOLLER & SOLLER<br />

A buzzy and popular harbour village, Port<br />

de Soller offers a discerning alternative<br />

to Majorca’s more mainstream coastal<br />

resorts. With a marina studded with bars<br />

and restaurants, this horseshoe-shaped bay<br />

attracts holidaymakers and honeymooners<br />

alike.<br />

The vintage tramway, nicknamed the<br />

‘Orange Express’ due to the citrus groves<br />

it rattles past, is the only working tram in<br />

Majorca and connects Port de Soller with<br />

the nearby town of Soller. This postcardpretty<br />

historical town features charming<br />

local eateries, cobbled streets and eclectic<br />

architecture including the imposinglybeautiful<br />

Neo-gothic church of Sant<br />

Bartolomeu.<br />

WHERE TO STAY: JUMEIRAH<br />

PORT SOLLER HOTEL & SPA<br />

Perched majestically on the cliffs overlooking<br />

the port and the gleaming Mediterranean<br />

Sea is the Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa.<br />

This luxurious retreat feels a world away from<br />

the bustle of the harbour, with panoramic<br />

views of the sea on one side and the towering<br />

Tramuntana Mountains on the other.<br />

Its 87 rooms and 40 suites are thoughtfully<br />

spaced, ensuring the property never feels<br />

too busy. Each room comes with a balcony<br />

and large bathrooms, many of which boast<br />

glass-walled showers overlooking the sea.<br />

You can also expect high-end touches from<br />

Mühldorfer goose-down pillows to Natura<br />

Bisse amenities.<br />

If you really want to soak in the views,<br />

head to the Sunset Lounge, where guests<br />

can sample a variety of Japanese-Peruvian<br />

delicacies amidst live DJs as the sun<br />

disappears into the sea. Formal dining can be<br />

enjoyed at the resort’s Cap Roig restaurant.<br />

The jewel in the crown of this regal<br />

property is the incredible Talise Spa, a<br />

modern wellness centre including a sauna,<br />

Hamman suite and ten treatment rooms.<br />

The spa’s outdoor hydro pool overlooking<br />

the mountains offers ultimate relaxation while<br />

the extensive spa menu includes treatments<br />

combining modern techniques with traditional<br />

ingredients, like crushed almonds and local<br />

olive oil.<br />

While it may be tempting to lounge by the<br />

hotel’s impressive infinity pool throughout<br />

your stay, we recommend booking a<br />

speedboat for an afternoon. Explore the<br />

rugged coastline, relax on the waves, and<br />

venture into caves with a knowledgeable<br />

guide (try www.sollercharterexperience).<br />

Once the boat trip is over, grab a meal<br />

at Suculenta Port de Soller (www.<br />

suculentaportdesoller.com)– a fine dining<br />

restaurant that is perfectly placed right on the<br />

waterfront.<br />

www.jumeirah.com


EASTERN Promise<br />

The Middle East remains the number one dream destination for couples seeking<br />

unrivalled luxury and hospitality. We sent Fariha Sabir-Bajwa to check out the latest<br />

must-stay hotels for honeymooners in the region’s most desirable locations<br />

UAE: FOUR SEASONS RESORT JUMEIRAH BEACH, DUBAI<br />

Dubai has long established itself as<br />

a honeymoon haven and made<br />

its mark as the ultimate glitzy<br />

and glamorous playground of<br />

indulgence and hedonism. With<br />

this image in mind, it only makes sense to choose<br />

a hotel that will match such lustrous expectations.<br />

Cue Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach<br />

– which will not just meet expectations, but also go<br />

way beyond.<br />

Ideally located near downtown Dubai on<br />

Jumeirah Beach Road, the hotel boasts aweinspiring<br />

views of the illustrious Dubai skyline on<br />

one side and the sparkling waters of the Arabian<br />

Gulf on the other. This means that most things on<br />

your to-do list will most likely be conveniently close<br />

by such as Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountains, the tallest<br />

building in the world Burj Khalifa, Dubai Water<br />

Canal and so much more.<br />

There is an array of rooms and suites to choose<br />

from, each with impressive views all around,<br />

featuring classic themes, with contemporary<br />

accents, hints of Arabian design and finished with<br />

sumptuous furnishings. The large cushy beds<br />

promise a slumber of a lifetime, the bathrobes<br />

are plush and your toes will sink into the thick<br />

bathmats. The attention to detail is divine and is<br />

what sets Four Seasons apart from the others, as<br />

well as the most attentive staff.<br />

Dining at the Four Seasons is a treat to the<br />

senses, with a range of restaurants and bars such<br />

as Mercury Lounge, offering delectable cuisines<br />

that you can tuck into and sip a swanky cocktail, all<br />

whilst taking in alluring views of the city. Whether<br />

it’s a Tomahawk steak cooked to perfection at<br />

dinner or chocolate madeleines with tea – both<br />

will be the finest edibles your tastebuds have<br />

ever savoured. Newlyweds can romance during<br />

a private beachfront dining evening, featuring<br />

their very own attendant catering a five-course<br />

extravaganza.<br />

Not many hotels can boast a private beach<br />

along the Arabian Gulf coastline – ideal for a spot<br />

of basking in the sun and beachside tipple. For<br />

those looking for a sanctuary, The Pearl Spa is<br />

a lavish retreat featuring an array of treatments<br />

and therapies to rejuvenate the mind and body,<br />

including the use of luxury products such as<br />

Biologique Recherche, which will leave your skin<br />

feeling anew. The pearl-themed spa is reminiscent<br />

of Dubai’s ancient pearl industry, where guests<br />

can be wowed by pearl-embedded feature walls,<br />

consisting of reflective pearl elements resembling a<br />

mermaid’s tail.<br />

Although Dubai showcases an extensive portfolio<br />

of decadent hotels and resorts, the Four Seasons is<br />

an iconic gem of sheer elegance and refinement in<br />

every aspect.<br />

• www.fourseasons.com/dubaijb


OMAN: SHANGRI-LA RESORTS, MUSCAT<br />

Upon first impressions of Muscat, you will be<br />

pleasantly surprised and awe-inspired by the<br />

imposing landscape of gigantic, looming, rocky<br />

mountains. The journey to Shangri-La resort<br />

hotels is a unique one, where you will be left<br />

wondering how the roads were carved from<br />

these epic rocks. As the roads wind upwards and<br />

downwards, the resort is hidden away by the<br />

mountains, until it magically emerges on the<br />

horizon.<br />

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah resort connects two<br />

enormous luxurious hotel wings called Al Waha<br />

‘The Oasis’ and Al Bandar ‘The Town’. The<br />

hidden gem amidst this treasure, is Shangri-La<br />

Al Husn, an ultra swanky adult-only retreat,<br />

discreetly nestled atop a cliff, adding to the<br />

exclusive honeymoon vibes.<br />

Set away from the rest of the resort hotels, Al<br />

Husn’s ambience is of the utmost tranquility.<br />

Staying true to Omani heritage and culture,<br />

sumptuous Arabian décor, facades and<br />

furnishings fit for royalty are themed throughout<br />

the resorts. Al-Husn boasts understated opulence<br />

with quintessentially Middle-Eastern shaped<br />

archways and golden embossed ceilings. As you<br />

walk out into the main courtyard, there is not a<br />

sound to be heard, except the gentle tinkering of<br />

the central fountains cascading, until your eyes<br />

and ears are drawn towards the most soothing<br />

melody and sight of the dazzling waters of the<br />

Gulf of Oman, creating an idyllic backdrop for the<br />

huge infinity pool.<br />

Following the uninterrupted sandy coastline,<br />

there is no better relaxation spot than the<br />

serenity of the private beach cove. There are<br />

a variety of rooms and suites on offer, each<br />

impeccably designed and wonderfully spacious,<br />

including a special balcony or terrace from which<br />

to savour the surrounding natural scenes.<br />

As you enter the decadent Luban Spa, you<br />

will instantly be welcomed by the indulgent and<br />

mystical scents of Frankincense – a traditional<br />

oil embedded in the Omani culture since the<br />

beginning. Tantalising cuisine from traditional<br />

Omani dishes to Mediterranean delights can<br />

be enjoyed at any of the three restaurants and<br />

bars onsite. Omani food is delicious, where the<br />

meat in particular is cooked to the utmost tender<br />

perfection. Although you won’t want to leave the<br />

serenity of Al-Husn, guests can also utilise all<br />

facilities and services at the adjacent hotels on<br />

the resort, including six swimming pools, nine<br />

restaurants, bars and cafes.<br />

Although it is easy not to leave this seaside<br />

haven, there is of course plenty to experience<br />

in and around Muscat including local markets,<br />

beautiful mosques, shopping and a variety of<br />

watersports. But what will certainly leave its<br />

mark is the warm Omani hospitality.<br />

• www.shangri-la.com/en/muscat/<br />

alhusnresortandspa<br />

HONEYMOON<br />

GET MARRIED IN MUSCAT<br />

Muscat makes the ideal destination wedding spot with year-round sunshine,<br />

stunning natural beauty backdrops such as sandy beaches, turquoise<br />

sparkling waters and a mesmerizingly unique landscape of rugged mountains.<br />

The Shangri-La resorts can accommodate large capacity celebrations and<br />

their in-house wedding planning team can cater to all your dream wedding<br />

requirements. They really know how to personalise each event too - they<br />

once changed the name of the resort to a groom’s surname upon his request.


Shreena | Art by Shree<br />

www.artbyshree.com<br />

E: artbyshree@hotmail.com • artybyshree


T: +44(0)207 193 0138 • E: hello@illusionphotovideo.co.uk<br />

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