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As the weather cools down, it’s all about the chic outdoor places this season with views overlooking Dubai’s skyline. Sal […]
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Words: Diyana Hakmi
December’s – ‘The Party Issue’ – Download Now
Chloe Szukilojc’s approaches creating fine floral arrangement with a daring eye for the unusual.
What do your first 30 minutes of the day look like?
When I am up, I like to head to the gym or clean my house while listening to a podcast. I find this so therapeutic. I love coming home to a fresh, clean house because my days can be so busy that I need to be in a clear space when I return home. I try to take some time for myself in the morning because this is the only time in my day where I able to do so. I have become addicted to podcasts and it allows me the space to not focus on everything else, even for a short time.
Tell us about your role as Creative Director of Fine Blooms.
I love my job so much. There are so many different aspects of my role and every day is different from the next. I spend a lot of time sourcing and ordering flowers as most of our products come from our suppliers in Holland. Making sure the flowers are here on time for events and orders is essential. The role is ever-changing, we all help out and work together as a team and this is key for the success of any business.
How did you know you wanted to be a florist?
I have always wanted to do something creative. I always excelled in textiles, design and art at school. My passion for flowers came from a young age, and as I grew older, I become more confident in pursuing my dream. Being a florist then, isn’t the same as it is now, back then it would have been very uncommon to leave school and do what I do. Now I think floristry is more exclusive, it’s like an art practice.
What has been the biggest challenge since launching and how did you overcome this?
I relocated to Dubai at the end of February of this year and three weeks later, we went into lockdown. Not only was I in a completely new country and in a new role, but also in the middle of a global pandemic. There have been some tough times, but honestly, the good far outweighs the bad. I feel very proud of how Fine Blooms has excelled this year.
Which flower is your favourite, and why?
This is honestly the most challenging question, and it changes every season. By the end of the peony season, I’m ready to see something new but when they come back, I’m in love again. That’s what’s so great about my job; things are always changing all the time. Currently, I cannot live without chocolate cosmos. They look like chocolate and smell exactly like chocolate.
Which floral trends are the most popular in the region?
Floristry is like fashion, and any other face paced moving industry. Trends are continually changing and evolving. I think people in the region are now looking for something different, usual and unique. When we create our wildest designs, that’s usually what gets the most attention.
How should you look after your floral arrangements?
Lots of water! Fill your vase right to the top as flowers drink super quickly, especially when it’s hot, and if you receive a bouquet the stems can be different lengths. So, to avoid any dying off quicker than the others, make sure to fill right to the top of the vase and change the water every two days.
What’s inspires when creating floral designs?
I take a lot of inspiration from my surroundings. The environment, natural products and landscapes inspire me. I love using the unusual. Over the past year, we’ve used sand, fruit and even salt rocks in our designs. I want to do things differently and show people how to incorporate what you have in your fruit bowl into your dinner party table arrangement set up.
What key elements should be present in flower arrangements for the festive season, and will you be creating festive wreaths?
Everyone celebrates the festive season differently, so I think it’s important not to box yourself into the stereotypical designs or colour schemes. We will be focusing heavily on dried flowers this festive season so our customers can keep arrangements in their homes for longer, even through into the New Year.
Which Instagram accounts do you follow for inspiration?
@rubymarylennox is a magician. An Australian florist now living in Berlin and taking the floristry world by storm. I gasp every time I see a new post.
Also, my sister @isabellaszukilojc she is fabulous. She is the Dark Lab’s Marking Director, which holds the most captivating, eye-opening festival every year, Dark Mofo in Hobart, Tasmania. It honestly blows my mind what they do there.
What advice would you give to your younger self starting?
Trust your instinct. I spent a few years working in the fashion industry because I thought it was the closest thing I could do the floristry. Obviously, in the end, I wasn’t happy, as it wasn’t where my passion lay. Also, always go for what you want and don’t get too caught up in what’s the traditional route of a career. You can make anything happen if you work hard and believe in yourself. Don’t seek approval from others; it will always hold you back.
This is ‘The Party Issue’ – how will you be celebrating this year?
Like many others this year, I won’t be able to make it home to my family and friends back in Australia, which is heartbreaking. Still, I’m trying to make the best out of this situation and take some time off and explore the UAE and spend my first holiday season in my new home with my partner and friends. I’m so looking forward to it. I think the whole world deserves a good break!
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As the overbooked holiday season soon comes to an end, the slowdown from a whirlwind of events is essential as we enter 2021. From a relaxing pool day by the beach to a rejuvenating staycation, Emirates Woman has curated a list of activities to help you usher in the arrival of the new year.
Pool day at Azure Beach
Located at Rixos Premium Dubai, JBR, you can take the plunge into the new year with a private, luxury cabana experience for a perfect city escape. Every Friday and Saturday for Dhs200 guests will receive a voucher for Dhs100 to redeem on food & beverages with stunning views of the Palm.
For more information visit azure-beach.com
New Year’s Day garden Brunch at Bab Al Shams
Spend the first day of 2021 at Al Forsan in Bab Al Shams with a warm garden brunch offering a choice between indoor or alfresco dining while showcasing a live cooking station featuring a selection of healthy and organic meals alongside a range of beverages prepared by the specialized inhouse mixologists. Packages start from Dhs450 per person from 1pm to 5pm on January 1, 2021.
For more information visit babalshams.com
Get fresh produce at the Emirati Farmers Souq
Located on the ground floor of the two storey Food district, young entrepreneurial UAE farmers sell local fruits and vegetables every Saturday till Ramadan from 8am to 2pm on Palm Jumeriah, the Pointe. This homegrown theme is made to happen on a weekly basis to ensure food sustainability in the emirate.
Enjoy a staycation at Zaha Hadid’s new hotel
Designed by the famous architect, the swish interiors meet sleek, sculpted curvature as this extremely personalized hotel is located in the heart of Dubai at the Burj Khalifa district while offering sweeping city views a plethora of bars and restaurants for guests to dine in.
For more information regarding the staycation packages visit melia.com
Take a trip to London’s beloved Arts Club in Dubai
This brasserie is a unique interpretation of the London Club’s impressive heritage. Located in DIFC, the club expands over 65,000 and designed to provide its members with an unforgettable experience. Opened on December 26, 2020, this international outpost is definitely on list of places to visit.
For more information visit the theartsclub.ae
Visit SALT’s new pop-up
Take a bite of this new burger-dining concept with decadent shakes and savoury meals, as you can find this new pop-up location in DIFC with workshops on art, Photography, fitness and live musicians in the evening as you sample on all sorts of new concoctions to leave you craving more. The pop-up is on until April 30, 2021.
To book your camping spot at this brand new concept visit sevenrooms.com
New Year’s Eve celebrations
If you’re still undecided on what to do for New Year’s Eve, Emirates Woman has curated a list of ultimate hotspots in the emirate to visit incase you’re on the lookout for any last minute plans for inspiration definitely give it a must read.
Read: Still need to make NYE plans? Here’s 21 spectacular places to go in Dubai
Get ready to glow with JLO’s new beauty brand
There’s no better way to kickstart the new year, than with this covetable beauty brand, launching on January 1, 2021, JLO Beauty is all set to let you glow with its range of covetable beauty products, from dewy moisturizers to miracle working creams, all the products are set to give you that limitless glow.
To pre-order visit jlobeauty.com
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With over 60 years in the fashion Industry, Monsieur Pierre Cardin was adored for his business acumen and world renowned label. France’s Academy of Fine Arts, announced his death on Tuesday in the French capital region while he was 98 years old.
Inspired by futuristic silhouettes and the jet age, his visionary outlook helped him exceed as he become one of the first courtiers in the Parisian world to make ready-to-wear versions of his designs back in 1959, while luminaries such as Elizabeth Taylor and the Beatles were also seen dawned in his creations.
From avant-garde tunics to space helmets his innovation in the fashion industry won’t be forgotten. Later on in 1969, the designer was also commissioned by Nasa to create a spacesuit and is still considered a trailblazer in the world of futurism.
He will always be remembered for his contribution ad his inspiring story of starting out at France’s elite fashion house, Paquin and later being hired by Christian Dior a year later. After gaining inspiration and exposure, Mr. Cardin founded his fashion house in 1950.
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Received from Airbus’ Hamburg facility last week, this new Premium Economy cabin in Emirates features an aesthetic and technological advancement to provide customers an enhanced flying experience. From a comfortable cradle position to cream-coloured anti-stain leather details similar to Business Class, this unmatched experience is a game changer in the airline industry.
Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline said: “The Emirates A380 is already one of the most sought-after travel experiences in the skies, and now we’ve made it even better. While others cut back, Emirates is working hard to restore the products and services that we’ve had to suspend or adjust due to pandemic precautions, and introduce new offerings and enhancements.”
Once 2021 and 2022, the remaining 5 A380s will be delivered with the latest Emirates’ premium economy seats while the airline already received most of its Airbus’ already. With 13.3” screen and a wide range of unmatched tunes, blockbusters, TV channels and news platforms on the Emirates’ Ice entertainment, passengers are sure to be well-equipped for long flights too.
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Along with amble room to stretch and optimal comfort, more details regarding where its A380 aircraft with Premium Economy will be deployed in the coming weeks will be announced, for more information visit emirates.com
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While some timeless shows might depart Netflix, a slew of original and new content is all set to appear in the New Year, meaning January will be filled with continuous hours of binge-watching new series and films on the streaming giant.
January 1The Minimalists: Less Is Now
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The Minimalists have reworked this phrase to create a sense of urgency for today’s consumer culture: now is the time for less
Catch Me If You Can (2002)
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Notorious con artist Frank Abagnale has duped people worth millions of dollars with his masterful art of deception.
Into the Wild (2007)
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A young graduate decides to renounce all his possessions and hitchhike across America. During his journey, he encounters several situations which change him as a person.
January 2The Netflix Afterparty (Cobra Kai Special) Netflix Original
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The Netflix Afterparty is a new variety/talk show series that debuted on December 13th. The Cobra Kai edition arrives on Netflix the day after Cobra Kai season 3 hits Netflix.
January 5LA’s Finest (Season 1)
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An LAPD detective gets paired with a new partner. Although their personalities do not match, they always put forth their best efforts to take down criminals.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
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A journalist, hires a computer hacker, to solve the mystery of a woman who has been missing for forty years. The two discover more than they bargained for.
January 6Tony Parker: The Final Shot (2021) Netflix Original
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This film examines the background and career of Tony Parker, whose determination led him to become arguably the greatest French basketball player.
January 7Pieces of a Woman (2021) Netflix Original
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A heartbreaking home birth leaves a woman grappling with the profound emotional fallout, isolated from her partner and family by a chasm of grief.
January 11The Intouchables (2011)
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An unusual friendship develops when a street smart immigrant is hired to take care of a disabled French nobleman.
January 22The White Tiger (2021) Netflix Original
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An ambitious Indian driver uses his wit and cunning to escape from poverty and rise to the top.
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After an incredibly challenging year for all, we speak to some of the most incredible women we know about how they will be unwinding at the end of this year and what they have learned throughout 2020.
Her Excellency Dr. Sara Al MadaniFounder of Halahi, Social Fish and Proposal Cupids@sara_almadani_
What have you learned throughout 2020?
2020 has been a tough yet amazing year. A lot of good things happened to me. I’ve changed the way I work and my priorities, so COVID was a blessing in disguise. This year has also taught me that it’s okay to take some time off, it’s okay not to be as constantly busy as we are used to. I’ve learned it’s okay to let go sometimes and not work and it’s okay to focus on your mental health because that’s all that matters.
How will you be celebrating this festive season?
Due to the current situation, we can’t be very festive, but usually, I spend it with my family remembering the heritage of the UAE and all the things that come with it.
What will you be doing to unwind at the end of the year?
I’m thinking of taking a trip to the Maldives, to unwind on the beach – my mind needs it and my body needs it!
Fatma Al OtaibaFounder of Odeem@odeem_official
What have you learned throughout 2020?
This year has been quite an interesting year for everyone I believe. The circumstances showed me what is of true value to us – our family and loved ones, not to take simple pleasures for granted.
What will you be doing to unwind at the end of the year?
I usually travel around this time. At the end of this year though, I’m looking forward to taking some time off and spending quality time locally. The weather’s great in Dubai during this season and it would be a perfect time for a staycation with my family.
Ghizlan GuenezEntrepreneur and businessperson@ghizlan_guenez_
What have you learned throughout 2020?
2020 thought me to slow down and focus on all areas of my life that need attention to enable me to be a good, healthy and happy person. I had spent four years consumed with setting up and launching a business and before that 14 years in a very fast-paced industry and realised that whilst I was thriving professionally, I wasn’t truly nurturing other important aspects of my life such as my personal relationships, my physical wellbeing and my recreational time be it going on vacations or taking the time to just “switch off”. This year forced many of us to take a pause which was probably necessary for many of us, certainly for myself. I had the time to reflect back and reconsider what I would like my life to look like for me to feel happy and as balanced as can be whilst still fulfilling my ambitions and goals.
How will you be celebrating this festive season?
With family and friends. We’re close as a family and enjoy celebrating holidays together. We’re all foodies and my brothers good really well so we enjoy nothing more than a great meal and lots of conversation and laughter around the dinner table. In today’s pace, we don’t get to sit together for a proper meal often so the holidays are a great occasion to reconnect with loved ones and spend quality time
What will you be doing to unwind at the end of the year?
It would have been lovely to travel somewhere but on the positive side staying in town has allowed us to re-explore parts of the UAE that we hadn’t before. I have been to some beautiful places such as Hatta which I hadn’t visited since I was 13! So, I’m planning on a staycation in one of the local resorts either in the desert or by the sea.
Dounia Sheikh El ArdDubai-based content creator@mydounia
What have you learned throughout 2020?
2020 has taught me patience and gratitude in so many ways. It’s not easy to put our lives and plans on hold.
How will you be celebrating this festive season?
I will be celebrating at home with my loved ones. It feels funny yet comforting to have a different style of celebrations this year, usually by this time I’d have my whole week of Christmas and New Year’s Eve planned with gatherings and even my outfits!
What will you be doing to unwind at the end of the year?
To unwind, I found that developing my creative side has helped me a lot. I’m currently taking sewing and pottery classes just to focus on something else and it’s been quite inspiring!
Zeynab ElhelwBlogger and influencer@fashion_pirate
What have you learned throughout 2020?
I’ve learnt that life is extremely precious, unpredictable and family along with health is everything. My priorities changed a lot this year therefore doing and saying what I feel without hesitation is paramount.
How will you be celebrating this festive season?
We will be celebrating with the delivery of my nephew which we are so excited about. Moreover, I’ll hopefully be having the company of my parents fly in from London and join us in Dubai to celebrate the festive season on the beach by relaxing and enjoying special moments together.
What will you be doing to unwind at the end of the year?
I’ll be spending exceptional quality time with the family and taking each say as it comes with no long-term plans. This for me is valuable to live in the now and unwinding to start the New Year afresh.
Lana AlbeikModel@lana_.jpg
What have you learned throughout 2020?
To celebrate and enjoy any small achievement.
How will you be celebrating this festive season?
I will take time off work and spend it with my family but I will probably work on some side projects.
What will you be doing to unwind at the end of the year?
Try my best to be in nature and be in the winter sun – nothing relaxes me like the sun.
Nina UbhiMakeup artist@ninaubhi
What have you learned throughout 2020?
Take nothing for granted! It’s easy to become complacent with everyday luxuries and even people. So, this year has taught me how unimportant material things are and how important spending time with loved ones is. Being an entrepreneur means I’m constantly working and with so much being focused on social media you sometimes forget to put your phone down and soak in those special moments. This year I’ve learnt to live in the moment and not worry so much if I have a heavy workload – it will still be there tomorrow!
How will you be celebrating this festive season?
I will be celebrating this festive season with my husband and we’re likely to have a quiet one at home. After all, it’s all about who you spend it with rather than where you go. I love cooking and baking so I’m pretty excited to take some time off and focus on feeding people!
What will you be doing to unwind at the end of the year?
I still haven’t thought that far ahead but I usually decide with my husband a week before! I’m taking each day as it comes and I think this year I feel more inclined to do something relaxing. Anything that will still leave me feeling refreshed in the new year.
Haneen OdehOwner of Snob salon@haneenodeh
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A post shared by Haneen Odeh – حنين عودة (@haneenodeh)
What have you learned throughout 2020?
How much we took everything for granted. I learnt to take time to enjoy the little moments in life and not stress over things that don’t matter! I also learnt to enjoy my time at home and not be running around all the time.
How will you be celebrating this festive season?
Quietly, with my family! I think this festive season will be a bit more low key than any other time and gives us a chance to slow down and spend time with loved ones. A lot of cooking and barbecuing as well in this amazing weather!
What will you be doing to unwind at the end of the year?
A lot of self-care. This year has been tough for a lot of people and for once I’m not going to have a new year’s resolution list because I don’t want to put myself under pressure of achieving for next year. Nothing went according to plan in 2020 and I think 2021 will also be a bit unpredictable. Just take a breath and live day by day!
Aya FaisalFashion influencer@theayoot
What have you learned throughout 2020?
My happiness depends on myself and my moods.
How will you be celebrating this festive season?
I will be celebrating with my dearest family.
What will you be doing to unwind at the end of the year?
A small gathering with my family and my closest friends to remind everyone that we’ve been through this year and we are grateful to be here all together.
December’s – ‘The Party Issue’ – Download Now
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January’s – ‘The Positivity Issue’ – Download Now
Words & Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotography: Žiga MihelcicFashion Assistant: Sarah Joseph
Welcome to ‘The Positivity Issue’. I would like to thank an incredible team for digging deep in 2020 and allowing us to stand where we do currently, having honed and elevated Emirates Woman we are well-positioned for a strong start to 2021. This wouldn’t work without you all, so thank you for every late night, every detail and extra mile, it is truly appreciated.
In this issue, you will find everything to enable you to kick off the New Year with a positive mindset.
For our cover aerial artist, fitness enthusiast and wellness expert, Mayassa Al-Tajir, shares with us her positive approach to life.
We also look ahead to SS21 with interviews from three key swimwear brands, Oséree, Myra Swim and PALM. We also speak to YNAP’s Director of Sustainability and Inclusion, Giorgia Roversi.
Beauty wise, we look at the gentlest cleansers that deliver a deep clean, Tata Harper discusses their mindful approach to beauty and Aveda leads the charge for ethical beauty in The Positive Pioneer.
We also look at how to give your investment pieces longevity and some of the most incredible women we know outline how they will be harnessing an attitude of positivity for 2021.
Focus on the good and the good gets better.
Happy New Year.
January’s – ‘The Positivity Issue’ – Download Now
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