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      Embrace superlative design for your interiors with ONE 52

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      Lifestyle

      by Amy Sessions
      53 mins ago

      We speak to Founder of ONE 52, Sasan Mostajeran, about the power of details and why investment pieces are the smart choice when it comes to interiors.

      What do the first 30 mins of your day look like, your morning routine?
      I do my best work at night, so I like to give myself enough time in the mornings to get the day started at a manageable pace and certainly always try to avoid feeling rushed. I will have a black tea without fail and often try to build in time for some mindfulness exercises, whether it be meditation, breathing exercises, or just some quiet reflection.
      How did you know it was the right time to launch ONE 52, and which steps previously led you to this path?
      I have been a lifetime design aficionado. This led me to art school and an early career in photography. After attending several international design fairs, I eventually started working with leading Italian furniture and lighting design manufacturers. However, I have always wanted to introduce something new to Middle East. This market is one of the most unique in the world and that heritage of design appreciation is exhibited on a grand scale. We see design everywhere here in Dubai and that is why I truly believe it is one of the best places in the world to live. When I visited USM’s headquarters and factory in Münsingen, Switzerland, and met the team behind the company, I thought it was a tremendous opportunity to partner with a world-class organization and bring its unique and innovative products to Dubai and the larger Middle Eastern market.

      What is the DNA of the brand?
      Our DNA is providing authentic, timeless design pieces with superior customer service. We are dedicated to providing our customers with furniture that looks great and is functional and timeless. From the moment a customer steps into our design studio, we aim to help them find the perfect furniture piece to meet their needs and tastes.
      How challenging was it to refine which brands you wanted to carry and was it easy to partner with them from the outset?
      When it comes to selecting brands to carry, it’s important to choose those that align with the vision of ONE 52 Furniture. I had to consider a number of factors such as brand reputation, design aesthetic, product quality, and market demand. Partnering with these brands was a multi-step process that required careful consideration and negotiations. I had to establish clear communication with the brands and build strong relationships with them to ensure that we were on the same page. In some cases, the partnership process was straightforward and easy, while in others it was more challenging. However, I believe that the time and effort put into building these relationships was well worth it, as it has allowed ONE 52 Furniture to offer a diverse and high-quality product lineup. Ultimately, my goal was to create a carefully curated selection of brands that would provide customers with the best possible shopping experience and enable ONE 52 Furniture to stand out as a leader in the furniture industry.
      There is an education piece needed around investment pieces that last a lifetime. Can you expand on this?
      Investment pieces stem from another era but has a timeless spirit. The creative expertise and innovation behind the product are what keeps products up to date. Having an original is a life-long companion and a cultural legacy – it doesn‘t lose value, and can be passed down through the family, adding to its own history. It represents longevity for generations. I believe that education is key when it comes to industrial design and investing in authentic pieces of furniture. “What is an original? Why should customers purchase an original when a copy is so much cheaper?” In industrial design, there are two conditions to being an original: the manufacturer must have production rights and there must be some form of collaboration between the designer. Yet there are frequent misunderstandings.
      What have been the most challenging or rewarding aspects since launching to date?
      As an Iranian national, opening a bank account can be a challenging and complicated process. Due to the international sanctions imposed on Iran, many banks have restricted their services for Iranian citizens. This has resulted in limited options to open a bank account, which can is a lengthy process and require significant documentation and verification.
      How do you approach scaling without compromising on quality?
      Scaling a business or organization can be a difficult task, and our top priority is maintaining quality. Our approach to this is to implement a system of checks and balances that can ensure that quality is maintained at each stage of growth. This can involve creating clear processes and guidelines for operations, providing regular training and development opportunities for employees, and incorporating regular quality control measures such as audits or customer feedback. Another important aspect is to prioritize investment in the right tools, technology and infrastructure that can support efficient and effective scaling. Furthermore, involving and empowering employees at all levels can help ensure that quality is maintained and that the organization remains adaptable and agile as it grows.
      Have you had any mentors and if so, what advice did they impart?
      My dad has been a constant source of inspiration and guidance in my life, serving as a mentor and role model for me. Throughout my journey, he has been there to offer wisdom and advice, always encouraging me to follow my dreams and pursue my passions. His unwavering support and belief in me have given me the confidence to take on new challenges and overcome obstacles. He has taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and integrity, and I am grateful for his example of what it means to be a successful and responsible individual. I am deeply thankful for his guidance and support, and I am proud to call him my mentor and my dad.

      What advice would you give your younger self?
      It’s important to always remind yourself that making mistakes is a natural part of growth and learning. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things, even if they may not always lead to immediate success. Embrace your mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow, and use them to improve yourself and your skills. Additionally, never stop learning and seeking new knowledge and experiences. Keep an open mind, be curious, and never stop pushing yourself to be better. And above all, never give up on your dreams. No matter what obstacles you may face, stay focused and persistent in pursuing your goals. Remember that success often comes from perseverance and hard work, and that the greatest achievements are often the result of overcoming challenges.

      If you were advising someone investing in a lifetime piece for the first time, which piece would you suggest and why?
      I would say the Charles & Ray Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Vitra – a classic piece of mid-century modern furniture admired for its iconic design and unparalleled comfort for over 60 years. Its timeless design and excellent craftsmanship make it a worthwhile investment that can hold its value for years to come.
      In addition, I also suggest the Taccia Table Lamp designed by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni for Flos and the USM Haller System. It is a timeless piece of Italian design that offers both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The lamp’s distinctive design, with its spun aluminum reflector and blown glass diffuser, creates a warm and inviting ambiance in any room. The USM Haller System is a modular furniture system that allows for endless configurations and customization options, making it a versatile and practical investment for any space.
      Do you have a favourite piece you bought and what is on your Wishlist?
      I have a very long list of items… On top of that wishlist is The Ball Chair designed by Eero Aarnio.
      March’s – The Style Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      In pics: Throwback to Sheikha Mahra’s most adorable childhood moments

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      Sheikha Mahra shares a series of heartfelt portraits to her audience on social media.
      Shared to her official Instagram page, the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai gives her 137k fans an insight into her childhood with a series of adorable pictures from her childhood.
      Ever since she was young, equestrian activities have been a core component of Sheikha Mahra’s childhood and the old pictures on his feed portray the same.
      Known for her generosity and to continuously support the local community, this royal always empowers women around her. With her philanthropic efforts playing a key role to raise awareness about different issues in society, her kindness and generosity are truly irreplaceable.
      After sharing the images on her feed, several fans were in awe of the photos and even commented with the words “Heaven on earth”.
      As Emirates Woman scrolls through Sheikha Mahra’s Instagram there are a host of throwback moments that shed light on her memorable moments as a young girl

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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      8 outdoor activities to try in the UAE this winter

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      As temperatures drop in the UAE, outdoor activities are again on our radar.
      From zip-lining to glamping the options are endless as each outing is complemented with a hint of nature.
      To plan ahead, Emirates Woman has curated a unique guide for all the best outdoor activities you don’t want to miss in the UAE.
      Go sky high

      The first to operate balloon flights in the northern Emirates, ActionFlight, has recently launched in Ras Al Khaimah. The flight will take visitors soaring over the rolling terracotta dunes for awe-inspiring sunrise views of the Emirate’s breathtaking natural landscapes. Operating seven days a week during the ballooning season, the picturesque experience sets afloat in the Al Wadi desert, where guests will board the 450,000 cubic feet balloon standing at a colossal 34.6m. Taking flight just before sunrise, the journey lasts approximately 60-minutes where visitors can marvel at the illuminated desert dunes, majestic Hajar mountains and glistening coastline and might even be able to spot special appearances from the indigenous wildlife. The full package includes complimentary transportation from anywhere within Ras Al Khaimah and transfer options from other Emirates with an additional fee. Guests can relax and unwind as they indulge in a decadent selection of dishes and be treated to a fascinating bird of prey show with native Arabian falcons, owls and hawks. Post-trip, all passengers will take home a souvenir flight certificate signed by the Balloon Pilot as a memento from the extraordinary experience. The full package includes complimentary transportation from anywhere within Ras Al Khaimah and transfer options from other Emirates with an additional fee. The family-friendly flight has the capacity to carry up to 20 passengers and for those looking for a more intimate experience, private compartment and flight bookings are available on request. ActionFlight will run flights seven days per week, flight availability may be subject to change due to weather conditions. Kids under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets start at Dhs1,315 per adult and Dhs1,155 per child inclusive of the flight and return transport.
      For more information visit actionflight.ae
      Book an alfresco dining experience

      It’s the season to be outdoors again. As the weather cools down, alfresco Dubai dining is firmly back on our radars. From beach clubs to sky-high restaurants, each venue ensures scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline accompanied by a delectable menu crafted to perfection. From bohemian décor at Bar Du Port to being surrounded by nature at Bussola, there are plenty of restaurants on our guide for you to book ASAP with your loved ones.
      Try a glamping experience

      If you want to immerse yourself in nature, there’s no better way to do it than by escaping to the desert. While now being home to the region’s first trailer hotel, guests can camp alongside the banks of Hatta Dam with these innovative trailers to have a truly memorable experience. With luxurious facilities on board, it’s all set to feel like a thrilling adventure with all the necessary amenities provided as you’ll be nestled in the heart of the mountains starting at Dhs986 with prices varying.
      For more information regarding booking and details head to visithatta.com
      Visit this famed desert café

      With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu. Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
      For more information visit onedegree.ae
      Hone your equestrian skills

      From a spacious paddock to qualified instructors, the UAE is well-known for this exhilarating sport which is available all year round for you to enjoy. From state-of-the-art polo and equestrian communities to professional instructors to help fine-tune your skills, each stable is situated in a family-friendly oasis to train beginners and offer a tranquil desert escape. As here at Emirates Woman we are quite the fans of horse riding, here’s a curated list of stables with fully equipped facilities for you to embrace throughout the year.
      Swing your best shot

      For golfing enthusiasts, Top Golf is set to welcome guests this season. With 96- hitting bays, this expansive venue spans across 60,000 square feet with high-tech interactive games and a one-of-a-kind experience to experience with your friends and families. For a break between each game, the restaurants present the region’s top culinary talent with their signature burgers and sides. Located at Emirates Golf Club, this venue is a must-visit.
      For more information visit topgolf.ae
      Go ziplining

      Glide along the world’s longest ziplining spanning across 2.83 km. This gripping experience features breathtaking views of the UAE’s natural beauty and a bird’s eye view of the Hajar mountains. After the activity, guests can experience at one of the most popular havens, 1484 Puro and grab a bite with their loved ones.
      It’s time to trek

      Pack your water, snacks and a fully charged phone and get ready to embark on a journey depending on the level you wish to go for. Whether easy, moderate or extreme, each trek includes rocky outcrops and a wadi terrain with scenic views of the Hatta mountains. Located at Hatta Wadi Hub, guests can opt for the two-hour guided hiking tour.
      To make a booking head to visithatta.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram and Feature Image: Instagram @dashatravels More

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      This Mother’s Day treat your Mum with a series of exquisite gifts from Flowwow

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 hours ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: With Mother’s Day soon approaching on March 21, 2023, it’s time to shop for the most important woman in your life.
      Whether a small token of appreciation or something practical for her to cherish forever, Flowwow is a website with local online stores where you can order flower delivery in Dubai and mother’s day gifts with same-day or next-day delivery.
      If you’re looking at what to purchase as a kind token of appreciation, scroll through our editor-approved guide to make your shopping experience a whole lot easier.

      With a host of luxurious bouquets curated by local artisans, there’s an exquisite selection of arrangements varying from roses to hydrangeas, to make the celebration memorable.

      No special day is celebrated without a cake to mark their love and experience the joyous occasion. A custom cake or a box of craft chocolates is a simple yet stylish present, guaranteed to be enjoyed by your mother. With a meaningful phrase or an inside memory, this day can be cherished for years to come.

      For a long-lasting keepsake, dried flowers are the perfect option to showcase endless love as a precious memoir. With delicate lavender accompanied by its impressionable scent, mothers can feel at ease after a long day and embark on a calming journey from the minute they enter their room.

      If you’re on the lookout for gifts to complement the bouquets, opts for the customised balloons to make her feel loved. Whether red balloons to complement the red bouquets or bespoke confetti rose gold balloons, there are a plethora of hues and patterns to choose from as you scroll through this platform.

      For an elegant possession to gift your mother with, jewellery always works wonders. As a universal gift idea, there are various designs from dainty necklaces to bold pieces to fit your mum’s individual aesthetic.

      To add a hint of greenery at home, indoor plants work as the best option to redecorate any specific area and work as a sign of love and care when treated with love.

      To bestow her with natural scents, there’s an array of handmade soaps that will always allow the gift giver to be remembered with their warm delicate scent.
      So, if anyone deserves to be showered with love on this special occasion, it’s all the mothers and to guide you the process, Frowow, has a wide range of products starting from Dhs80 with same-day delivery and hassle-free shopping from the comfort of your home. For more information visit flowwow.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      How I got my Job as.. Founder of this couture cake atelier in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
      This week we chat with Cake Artist, Mich Turner, Founder of Little Venice Cake Company, located at the newly opened Atlantis The Royal.
      Synonymous with understated elegance, Turner is a pioneer in the baking industry, a consultant to the retail and hospitality industry and known to combine her creativity with her work. As an award-winning entrepreneur, she has been awarded an MBE in 2010, for her services in the catering industry.
      Set to offer the best cakes for all kinds of celebrations from bespoke cakes to afternoon tea loaves, clients can customise the desserts as per their requirements. With celebrity clients such as Pierce Brosnan, and Emma Thompson, including Buckingham Palace and more.
      While the road to entrepreneurship wasn’t an easy path, she went against all means to come out successful. To understand more, Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to learn about her career path and how she’s converted her passion into a full-time business.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      Chemistry, Biology and Home Economics.

      What was your first job?
      Bakery and a Patisserie Buyer at a luxury department store, Harvey Nichols.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      I was introduced to the team behind the iconic Atlantis Dubai, who was looking for a cake offering within their new ultra-luxury resort, Atlantis The Royal.
      What inspired you to enter the f&b space and launch Little Venice Cake Company?
      Little Venice Cake Company creates premium luxury cakes for all celebrations and events. We offer a couture bespoke service to clients, working with esteemed partners in the hospitality, retail and events sectors. For me, launching Little Venice Cake Company was a passion to create amazing cakes for amazing people, in amazing venues, for amazing celebrations – offering the very best in professionalism, client service, refined opulent designs, and totally indulgent cakes.
      Talk us through the inspiration of your pieces.
      There is a story behind every cake and every cake has to tell that story. Understanding the who, why, when, where and how provides the mainframe for each design. The skill and expertise then come in combining artistry with technical expertise and hand craftsmanship to design completely bespoke cakes – perfect for every occasion. A feast for the eyes and a memory for the palate.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      The key elements of my role are firstly communication as I meet and engage with people on an international stage. Being able to articulate, connect, direct , understand and empathise with people is key. Secondly, organisation – this is essential working in a critical time-dependent world. Forward planning, risk assessment, hazard analysis and problem-solving is an essential part of my role and thirdly Presentation is an important aspect, for inspiring those involved with Little Venice Cake Company to embrace our brand values.

      Talk us through your daily routine.
      My days rarely follow a routine. I try to pack as much into each day as I can and am fastidious with timekeeping to avoid time wasting. My time in Dubai is limited and usually built around a particular event – such as The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee events at The British Embassy or the grand reveal of Atlantis The Royal. I always wake up three hours before my first commitment to allow time for early morning correspondence, a visit to the gym, grooming, and breakfast. I will spend time with my team in pastry working on new collections, and seasonal offerings, reviewing recipes and designs. We often have tastings, bespoke orders, presentations and photo shoots to prepare for. I also plan time with the management team to review our business performance. I have meetings and consultations with clients for upcoming events which we host in our Royal Meeting Room with cake tastings. We are just starting to offer masterclasses for corporate and private clients in our show kitchen within our atelier at Atlantis The Royal. These are customised and hugely enjoyable, but require a lot of preparation. I juggle press requests and external presentations with invitations to attend official events. I am fortunate to dine within the resort and with so many incredible restaurants to choose from such as Milos, Ariana’s Persian Kitchen and Dinner By Heston Blumenthal it is a treat and certainly one of the best perks of the job.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      Prepare to work hard and insist on the highest standards for yourself. There is no fast track to experience and you can’t fake passion. Be committed.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      Do what you do really well, and no one can touch you.

      And what is the worst?
      Genuinely can’t think of anything? I have an analytical thought process – so would always work through the whole journey and possible outcomes before committing. Any advice that I couldn’t see working I would have discounted in the ether!
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      I am a problem solver, always looking for a way through the maze. Every challenge can be managed with time, tenacity and self-belief.
      What are the future plans for your brand and tell us how it feels to open at Atlantis The Royal?
      I have been working with Atlantis Dubai on this project for the past six years to deliver a world-exclusive Little Venice Cake Company atelier with Everyday cakes, a Signature collection, Couture bespoke cakes, customised masterclasses and a curated collection of homewares synonymous with our ethos of authenticity, British premium craftsmanship and heritage. I have enjoyed the whole process and am enormously proud of the atelier and the teams at Little Venice Cake Company and Atlantis The Royal.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Inside Princess Iman of Jordan’s Royal wedding with Jameel Alexander Thermiotis

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      58 mins ago

      The first royal wedding of 2023 officially took place this weekend.
      Jordan’s Princess Iman bint Abdullah II wed Jameel Alexander Thermiotis at Beit Al-Urdon Palace in a lavish ceremony on March 12, 2023, where she was donned in a stunning Dior gown.
      All her family members including Crown Prince Hussein with his fiancée Rajwa Al Saif along with King Abdullah and Queen Rania were present at the wedding. Other dignitaries from the GCC were also part of the celebrations such as Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, who is chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office, Entissar Amer, the current First Lady of Egypt and more.
      Princess Iman, 26, was ushered into the ceremony by her brother, Crown Prince Hussein with photos of them seen walking down the aisle.
      With over 150 guests seen attending the wedding, the live broadcast of the ceremony took place on Jordan TV, the country’s national television service.
      “Iman, I pray this next chapter in your life brings you as much joy, love, and laughter as you have brought us over the years. Congratulations to the bride and groom!” Queen Rania shared on Instagram.
      Swipe through the gallery to see the best photos from the wedding.

      Here’s to a lifetime of happiness for the newlyweds!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @Queen Rania More

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      How Lexie is making waves in the music industry with her soulful tracks

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      When it comes to the music industry, there’s always up-and-coming talent and Lexie is most certainly one of them.
      With influences ranging from Dua Lipa to Karen Carpenter, Lexie’s passion is her original music, and her recently released track “You Don’t Fit Me’ made it to Spotify’s ‘New Music Friday’ in its very first week.
      By making her name in the Middle East, she is all set to perform today at the award-winning speakeasy Hudson Tavern at Hyde Hotel, for an evening of music to flow through your soul with exceptional rhythms and beats from 8pm until late.
      To understand more about her career, Emirates Woman speaks to see how she overcame the challenges imposed in the industry.
      Talk us through your career.
      I’ve been in music for over 13 years, but I feel like I’m at the beginning of my journey. It’s like everything I’ve done until now has been a series of lessons preparing me for what’s about to come! I’ve tried so many different musical genres, I’ve signed noteworthy deals, and I’ve signed bad ones that cost me a fortune in litigation. But I can honestly say that I’m now so comfortable and sure of myself as an artist, I write music I love, and I’m proud of, and the only voice of reason I listen to now is my own. I know myself best.

      What inspired you to enter the music industry?
      To be honest, it was a bit of an accident, I was training to go into musical theatre, and then I ended up getting into a Girl Band signed with Warner, and that’s how I started out in the recording industry. You’d laugh if you saw me back then, we did quirky electro-pop, and we were young in the industry and just did what we were told.
      Could you tell us more about your upcoming release ‘Made Me Love You’, on what was the creative process behind this song?
      Honestly, There were a lot of tears, I probably kept Kleenex in business that month. Writing ‘Made Me Love You’ was the epitome of free therapy, I was so crushed after finding out the ‘guy I was seeing’ was in fact… ‘Married’, and when I found out I was still attached to him. Anyway I knew I had to swiftly let go of the whole situation, and writing this song was a huge part of my healing process, I’m so grateful that I can express myself with my songs it feels like the pain leaves my body and turns into art. I was crashing at my friends apartment at the time, because I had no work due to COVID, and he had this beautiful white grand piano next to a large window, I would just sit for hours, trying to find the words to explain how I felt, the song came together gradually, I would add a few lines each day, until I felt my story had been told.
      You’ve teamed up with Hudson Tavern at Hyde Hotel for an evening of music and performances. How does it feel and what can the audience expect?
      I love to get people to sing along with me! The Hudson Tavern has such an intimate feel, it’s perfect because I care a lot about the story and the lyrical content of my songs, playing a venue like this really gives people the chance to take it in and connect with me.
      You’re a pop singer-songwriter. Tell us more about this music genre.
      Well I’d say it’s pop, with a pinch of soul, and a touch of country. I write most of my pieces alone on guitar, and then I build the productions around that. I like my songs to have real instrumentation, and raw vocals, mixed with more modern sounds.
      How do you empower the women you’re surrounded with?
      I am Happy! That’s the key, it allows me to share my resources, my positivity and my blind faith that everything will work out, with other women around me. I’m very good at recognising people’s potential, and I’m definitely that friend that will really push to get it out of you. I actually have my own entertainment agency, and I hire and work with a lot of amazingly talented women, every day.

      What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
      Your number one goal in life should be happiness. When you prioritise it, it forces you to keep the right people around, to engage in activities that genuinely bring you joy, and to have healthy relationships. It teaches you to be grateful for what you do have, and it reminds you there’s no point in having huge career dreams if you don’t enjoy the journey to the top. If your hating life everyday you may as well move to Bali! Embrace that what makes you happy throughout life does change, some times it means letting go of things that are comfortable, and making space for something new.
      For booking inquiries for Lexie, contact Marc Jones at marc.jones@motivate.ae at Motivate Talent and visit motivatetalent.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Why The Cake Boutique by Waldorf Astoria DIFC is a go-to for all bespoke cakes

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      32 mins ago

      Beth Lauren, Cake Artist at The Cake Boutique by Waldorf Astoria DIFC on what it takes to create signature cakes with an attention to detail approach.

      Talk us through your career.
      I started baking at a young age with my mum, I always loved food because it’s something that brought everyone together in my home. I studied fashion design and illustration at university and opened my cake business at the age of 20. I grew the business from my mum’s kitchen in my hometown until we were so busy, I had to move into retail space, I opened two stores side by side at the age of 26, one cake artist kitchen and one coffee parlour where guests could enjoy the cakes and afternoon teas.
      What makes The Cake Boutique by Waldorf Astoria DIFC different from other bakeries in the region?
      For me The Cake Boutique by Waldorf Astoria DIFC is a passion project, what we do at the Cake Boutique is deliver the best quality ingredients and flavours in the best quality packaging, married with perfect aesthetics and options such as gluten-free, vegan and sugar-free, we tick all of the boxes for a dream cake experience.
      You combine craftsmanship and complexity into original cake design – talk us through the creative process.
      I would describe myself as an artist at heart, getting to be creative with food is a beautiful opportunity to be as openly creative as possible because there are no rules or limits. When it comes to designing a cake, there are so many ways to find in- spiration; online, in fashion, architecture or from the client, the world is my oyster. Once I have the creative ideas flowing, I make an illustration for the client to see their wedding cake before my team and I bring it to life.

      “Getting to be creative with food is a beautiful opportunity to be as openly creative as possible because there are no rules or limits.”

      What’s the most unique design you’ve created for a client?
      The best thing about cake design is that every creation is a unique piece of art. I rarely make the same design twice be- cause it can be so personalised to the client’s needs. Some of the most unique designs include a spherical wedding cake, a life-size motorbike and a giant cake shaped like a bar of toffee being smashed with a hammer.
      How would you best describe your decorating style and what are your signature collections?
      My style is elegant with a twist, I like my designs to be beautiful and clean but also to tell a story of why they came to life. The signature collection I have created for The Cake Boutique is a range of perfectly designed ‘off the shelf ’ style cakes, each featuring chocolate work, fresh fruits and/or edible gold. These cakes are beautiful, look luxurious and are made with the best quality ingredients; but also offer a more budget-friendly, last-minute option for guests.

      You consult each client to take them through the sketch and tasting process, was this the plan at the outset?
      Something I have always done from day one as a Cake Artist takes the time to get to know my clients. Part of the cake-making joy is that you play a role in creating a happy memory for your guest and I do that by listening to their requirements and vision for their cake design. A designer cake isn’t just for show, so although I perfect the aesthetics with an illustration, it’s important for me as a chef to have a cake tasting as part of the process, this helps me understand better what my client is looking for and what their preferred tastes are.
      What cake trends should we leave behind and which new ones should we be embracing?
      I love a cake trend because there are so many different creative options, I think for me overflowing sugar flowers on a wedding cake will be a classic trend I will never fall out of love with. Lustre dusts, piping and shimmer will forever be beautiful. As an artist it can be fun to try new techniques, currently, I’m enjoying wafer paper and textures in fondant. Cartoon cakes are extra fun, but I think it will be a short-lived trend for the cake world.
      Your designs are one-of-a-kind featuring digitally sketched illustrations – tell us more.
      As well as the signature line of cakes we have at The Cake Boutique BY Waldorf Astoria DIFC, I created a designer line of cakes that features digitally drawn illustrations or hand-modelled characters that are unique to Waldorf Astoria DIFC. Some of these drawings feature a sleepy sloth, mermaids and children’s characters. I love featuring original artwork on my cakes like this because it brings an added personality and be- spoke element to the designs. My personal favourite is Walter the Waldorf teddy bear, he features on my baby shower cake design.

      This is The Style Issue – what’s your personal style when it comes to cake artistry?
      As a person, I’m quite a free spirit and a hopeless romantic so this often flows into my cake designs. I love fresh flowers and soft textures paired with pastels or metallic. I will always enjoy embracing my inner child, so I love designing cute and fun cakes for children, as with every design I like to keep it with a touch of elegance.
      March’s – The Style Issue – Download Now 
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