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      How I got my job as… Founder of this luxe Dubai-based interior design company

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      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 Yasmin Farahmandy, founder of Ydesign Interior, an architectural and interior design firm based in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Known for its reputation in providing innovative quality pieces for clients according to their needs.
      Focused on one-of-a-kind designs, refined details and impressive quality, the company transforms different scale projects from preliminary concepts to beautiful, bold, luxurious and surreal reality.
      Emirates Woman sat down with this interior designer to find out more about her creative process and what inspired her to launch her own sophisticated brand.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      My favorite subjects from elementary school all the way to my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees were always related to art and design. In Art class, I was always intrigued by materials, colors and textures and I found things came naturally to my eyes at a young age. I have been blessed with opportunities to explore different mediums in both art and design over the years – from graphic design to fashion. I created a series of fashion shows aged 16, and in my work today I continue to admire and be inspired by the fashion and art scene, from how I dress to how I design the next beautiful space. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Furniture Design in Canada and ended my educational journey at Domus Academy in Milan, where I obtained my Master’s degree in Interior and Living Design.

      What was your first job?
      Since I was young I have been driven to work and learn, not just to earn money but because I have always been curious and wanted some independence. When I was 15, I was working as a barista and then restaurant manager and I then went on to run a retail store until I was 20 when I started working in a global design firm. All those early employment experiences have added great value to being a designer today, helping me understand spaces and the need of a venue or brand much better.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      I moved to Dubai when I was five years old then moved to Canada when I was 13. Later on, I moved to Milan, the design capital of the world, to complete my Master’s degree. I returned to Dubai because to me it is a city of opportunities and the design and art scene has grown at an exciting pace here, especially over the last 10 years. Now, it really is one of the main hubs for design and for me, working in the hospitality sector, where better in the world to be than Dubai.
      What inspired you to enter the interior design space and launch Y Design?
      Being a designer was a vision I had since a young age. I always knew I wanted to be part of the creative world and felt it was where I belonged. The older I got, the more obsessed with interior design I became. I love how all design disciplines can be incorporated into interiors. I learned so much working with some of the world’s best global design firms such as HBA and Gensler. That experience, coupled with my lifelong obsession with beauty and luxury, opened the doors for the most exciting chapter of my life – launching Ydesign Interior during the pandemic.
      Talk us through the inspiration of your pieces.
      I am inspired by different cultures and spaces therefore traveling is one of the biggest parts of my inspiration journey. While we like to stay up to date with recent trends, we also try to incorporate historic styles. Like fashion, design trends repeat themselves, whether that be through style, material, or design.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      As a designer and as an entrepreneur, it is very challenging to maintain both identities every day. The designer side of me is a creative soul with a vivid imagination, and day-to-day I manage projects, clients and construction sites. But as an entrepreneur and business owner, I have to wear many different hats and play different roles. I am a representative of my own brand, and I manage the company’s finance, accounts, and team members, all while building new relationships and business leads.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      Exercise is very important to me. I believe it elevates your mind and your mental health as well as your body, which as an entrepreneur and designer is very important. I need to be able to create and be inspired, and my brain and imagination is my main tool as a designer. It is like a muscle you need to train therefore exercising is part of my daily lifestyle everyday. I wake up very early and either go for a run, do weight training, or hot yoga. I do this every single day before I begin any work. My day is a mix of catching up with emails, meeting my clients and suppliers, and visiting construction sites. After work, I visit newly opened restaurants, hotels and bars to firstly admire the interior spaces, but also to understand and observe how people relate and interact with the spaces, which is a huge part of the concept journey for any hospitality or commercial project.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      Be passionate, persistent, and patient. Passionate: “Do what you love, and love what you do”, always in whatever you do in life. I always advise younger designers – when you do what you love, it is no longer an 8-5 job, it’s your baby, that you are growing, and will always be part of you. Be persistent as starting a firm is not easy, but you should always remain persistent and maintain the same drive everyday – have a vision and go after it. Also, be patient: Your dreams or goals don’t happen overnight. When you start your company, you need to be financially stable while you are growing, because you won’t have a steady salary. Make sure your finance is in check. Be patient. There might be some days you have a couple of projects at the same time, but some days when you are waiting for one project. Be prepared for good and bad days in all areas – whether that is finance or team capability. We have grown today to a team of five designers at Y Design in the past three years, but only because we’ve been ‘passionate, persistent and patient’.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      As long as you are really passionate about what you do every day, you will find some joy in both the good and bad days.
      We are living and working in a very competitive market, but if you can maintain energy, passion and a positive energy, you will attract clients who admire this and want to be a part of your journey.
      And what is the worst?
      “You are too young to start your own company”. There is no right or wrong time – it is different for each one of us. It’s going to be scary, challenging, and push you out of your comfort zone whatever age you are – only you know if and when you are ready to take the challenge.

      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      The biggest challenge was the launch of my company, as it was right in the middle of Covid. I had been contemplating for a year when the right time would be to start my own boutique firm. We were in the midst of the chaos and in lockdown, and I had lost my job. It was the scariest and most challenging decision I have made not knowing how the market would respond or if I could succeed. But here we are three years later, and I can say that all that chaos resulted in the most beautiful outcome with the launch of Ydesign Interior.
      What are the future plans for your brand?
      I would like to expand Ydesign Interior globally and work on international projects, while still maintaining our identity and feel of a boutique firm. We are very selective with the projects we take on and operate with an ethos of quality over quantity, which is key to our brand identity, as a luxury boutique firm. I feel it is important to build and develop a great friendships with our clients – that is what makes the journey enjoyable, even amid the inevitable challenges we face with every project.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  & Feature Image: Instagram @ydesigninteriors More

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      Happy Astrological New Year: Get ready to thrive

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      Words by Kirstyn Lewis
      Happy New Zodiacal Year
      The new astrological year starts just past 8:00 pm Dubai time on 21 March,2023. The New Moon in Aries will be at 0º sidling right up to the Sun Aries, which is also at 0º in the house of long-term commitments. It looks like you are kick-starting your energy in a new direction, and Jupiter has already started to pave the way by opening up opportunities for you. What a perfect time for empowering new moon affirmations and intentional beginnings!
      The stars are asking, how and in what ways can you thrive? There is a deep focus on career, reputation and status and the determination to succeed is evident. It looks like you must take a risk by thinking outside the square, and learning from any mistakes you may have made in the past. All talk and no action will not unfortunately drive things forward.
      Those taking a more out-of-sight, out-of-mind approach to issues around work should be careful. Jealousy, criticism, and gossip are building. But wait, it looks like any hidden enemies will soon be flushed out. You’ve had plenty of time to think about a situation, can you contribute instead to a fresh perspective and approach?
      Those working in caring professions or recruitment, film and television, photography, writing, spiritual practices, or water-related industries including sport, and marine biology, should expect new projects they’ve been working on to take hold very soon.
      There is an opportunity for pioneering and competitive types amongst you to see your potential take off in a good way over the next few months. You are not seeking fanfare; you just want to feel more appreciated, preferably doing something you love or for yourself.
      Are you starting a new enterprise or thinking of going into partnership with a friend? The stars are shining brightly for you. Make sure over the next three years you bring to the market something useful around communications, for use at home or whilst travelling. It should be made to last and seems to be a great gift idea, it’s a winner!
      The biggest astrological news for the New Year is that Pluto is changing signs, albeit moving at a snail’s pace into Aquarius on 24 March. Pluto is an exceedingly powerful planet, he waited to make his move in Aries season so everyone would understand who’s the Boss. Since February 2008, he has systematically broken down seemingly more conventional ways of doing business, traditional leadership models, and corporate structures. He affects not only you personally but also entire generations as he uncovers what has been covered, affecting us for the rest of our lives.
      We will be given a preview from 24 March until mid-June 2023 when he slowly slips back into Capricorn. Pluto takes around two years to settle into his new role.
      Pluto is about to become more risk-taking in what he wants to destroy, reform or fuse together. He also rules phobias and obsessions, anonymity and regeneration. What calls your attention? Don’t be too self-assured, there is a strong possibility that you will have to solve complex problems alone and unaided. Expect some surprises you didn’t see coming.
      For some, Pluto brings risks around gambling, financially or emotionally. For others, we see an uptake of more online erotica or sexual manipulation, or the opposite looms; a life of celibacy.
      Pregnancies appear more troublesome, for no apparent reason. Pluto rules the eliminative and reproductive systems. Some women may take longer to fall pregnant or need to rely on scientific methods. Although fewer children appear to be born during this time, they will be Universally more spiritual, sensitive and ‘in touch’.
      Will secrets be exposed around children, relatives, or even romance? Will you be involved in forbidden or dangerous love affairs that make you feel “emotionally alive”?
      Until January 2044 and just beyond, we will all see great gains in technology, science, space travel and women’s health can be expected. What’s very interesting will be revelations or a sense of enlightenment around how we choose to pass over. Acceptance around death, rebirth, and reincarnation appears to gain traction as scientists discover that life is not quite how we think it is. Spiritualists, energy workers and astrologers will also become more commonplace in the workplace, or as more widely accepted professions.
      We also see that Mars is about to wrap up an extra, super-long transit through venturesome Gemini. He has been playing games and in some instances, not being honest, since August 2022. Thankfully we have had enough, so welcome his move into Cancer on 26 March.
      Highlighted around this energy, are still things to finish off related to foreign shores and in-laws. More difficult aspects point to a moral or ethical battle you may be having. Are you feeling combative? Are you involved in something controversial? Has someone been unwilling to compromise because they are sticking up for someone else?
      You may want to protect your energy and reputation; emotionally driven quarrels are indicated. All the pent-up frustration centres around someone you love deeply or someone close to your heart. They are directly related to your life’s journey.
      Alternatively, it could also relate to a scheming authority figure, so watch out for manipulation there and be prepared to stand your ground.
      That said, Mars in Cancer is not a comfortable placement for an action-oriented planet. He struggles to operate effectively and get outcomes. It’s all steam without an engine so expect a temperamental couple of months ahead. It’s likely you may not see a victory until after 21 May.
      Over the last three days of March and mid-way through its Aries transit, Mercury nestles right up to Jupiter in the house of commitment. They’re talking about your future.
      Perhaps you ‘feel’ that you are on the verge of something great; things are certainly looking up, particularly around work. Those with softer, feminine energy should watch out for deals and agreements as roles with more responsibility are on the table. However, it’s not the time to discuss your dreams. Position yourself instead as a futurist who can drive the groundswell of financially viable new-age concepts and directions, particularly when having important career conversations.
      Mars in Cancer who has just entered the house of fortune, fame and honours, will also be making a lovely aspect to Saturn in Pisces on 28 March putting you in the spotlight. Make sure you are looking your most graceful and ladylike best. If you have any doubts, Venus and Uranus will be working hard to unblock them and help you get out of your comfort zone with sparkle and an exciting allure. See! The stars are all working together to help you.
      The only downside you may wish to consider is a Venus-Uranus conjunction which can be tricky if you are seeking answers around love. Venus seeks love and harmony, and Uranus freedom, variety and an escape route. There can be some unexpected excitement in the air. For some, this aspect indicates multiple liaisons are at play, but you probably already had an inkling. Others may confuse friendship and love. There is no point in dreaming. Wait until 11 April onward and have the conversation, even if you may not get the answers you want. It could be time to put yourself in the driver’s seat and move on.
      How will you shine? It’s time to step into your dignified, idealistic self and know that karma is in play.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Featured Image: Instagram @sarashakeel More

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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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      in lifestyle and culture

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

      by

      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