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      20 décor pieces to transform your home for summer

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      Summer has finally arrived and with that comes the warmth of hosting gatherings at home rather than being outdoors. With a few décor pieces to add, transforming your abode has never been easier.
      By infusing the calming elements of summer, anyone can add a few décor pieces to completely revamp their space.
      So, as temperatures rise, it’s time to embrace the season’s ecelectic energy and infuse your living spaces with a breath of fresh air. Embracing what suits your home the best can be a hassle – from figuring out what colour suits your rooms the best to what furniture looks best in your living space, the options are seemingly endless.
      Sometimes, it can be as simple as adding a cute seashell-shaped throw pillow or switching out your plates for ones with a colorful pattern to transform your home into the summer oasis of your dreams.
      Each of these pieces, can make a splash throughout the joy-filled month, trust us when we say there are plenty of choices that are *add-to-cart worthy*.
      For the host or the bachelor, try a fresh color scheme or incorporate new materials as the season changes. Start small and focus on one area of a room, or if you’re feeling bold, transform the whole room into a summery haven. This extra special and extra hot time of year is also the perfect time to embrace decor inspired by coastal design, like beachy color palettes and nautical nods, and tropical motifs, like summer fruit and palm leaves galore. Hence, Spruce up your dining area with our best summer decór ideas—from table setting and furnishing inspiration to mesmerising lighting touches for an escape without taking a long-haul flight. Without spending too much, it’s always easy to add a few touches to make your home a relaxing haven.
      If you’re looking to revamp your space, you’re in the right place as we can allow you to elevate your home’s style and create a refreshing retreat for yourself.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      The ultimate guide to female fertility: why your lifestyle matters

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      As more women are looking to conceive in the Middle East at and older age, knowing the key factors that affect fertility are of utmost importance.
      A newly launched at home testing kit Ovasave has done all the research and partnered with the best fertility clinics to create all-inclusive egg freezing packages for incredible women like you who want to keep their options open.
      Co-founder of Ovasave, Torkia Mahloul, is passionate about fertility preservation, educating women about their bodies and using tech to empower women to achieve their goals.
      To delve into the topic of fertility, Emirates Woman spoke to Mahloul, who is a tech expert with over a decade of experience in banking, technology and fintech.
      What inspired you to launch Ovasave?
      My journey to launching Ovasave is deeply personal, rooted in my own struggles with fertility. It began at age 34, when I came face to face with the need to preserve my eggs. Like many women, I was initially unaware of where to start or how to navigate the complex world of fertility care. The pivotal moment came when I took an AMH test, which highlighted the importance of fertility testing and understanding our bodies. During this journey, I met Majd Abu Zant, who would later become my co-founder. Together, we recognized a gap in women’s healthcare and were driven by a common belief that women deserve access to information, support, and affordable care. Our mission at Ovasave is to empower women to proactively manage their fertility and hormonal health — not reactively, which can often be “too late” — ensuring every woman has the chance to make informed decisions about her reproductive future.

      Talk us through the product and how does it work?
      Our platform is designed to simplify the fertility journey for women, covering everything from initial hormone testing to accessing fertility healthcare. Women can order our AMH test kit from our website and have it delivered directly to their door. The process involves a simple finger prick to collect a few drops of blood (which can also be done by a phlebotomist if someone is uncomfortable doing it herself) . A courier then collects the sample and delivers it to our accredited lab for analysis. It’s important to highlight that the convenience of our at-home sample collection doesn’t come with any tradeoff in quality or reliability. Our lab tests maintain the same level of accuracy as those conducted in clinics. Within just a few days, women can securely access their results through their Ovasave dashboard. They also have the option to schedule a free tele-consultation with a fertility expert to discuss their results and consider their options. Going beyond convenience, we also want to make fertility care more affordable. Our AMH test and teleconsultation services are priced at a fraction of the cost of traditional clinic visits. Similarly, for women considering egg freezing, we are partnering with leading fertility clinics in the UAE to offer comprehensive egg freezing packages along with payment plans to help ease the financial burden.
      What are the key factors that can affect fertility?
      One of the primary determinants is age. As women age, their fertility declines, particularly after the age of 35— mainly due to a decrease in both the quantity and quality of eggs in the ovaries. By educating women about the impact of age on fertility and promoting early testing, we empower them to make informed decisions about family planning and reproductive health. In addition to age, certain medical conditions can also affect fertility. For instance, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis can disrupt ovulation and interfere with conception. By raising awareness about these conditions and their impact on fertility, we hope to provide women with the knowledge they need to seek timely medical intervention and support. Lifestyle factors can also play a significant role in fertility. Smoking, consuming a lot of alcohol, poor diet, and high levels of stress can all contribute to infertility. By encouraging healthy lifestyle choices and providing resources for stress management, nutrition, and overall well-being, we empower women to optimize their fertility potential.
      What are your key tips to maintain a healthy lifestyle?
      I’ll explain this through the lens of reproductive health. You can think of your ovaries and your eggs as any other part of your body in terms of how they age, but unfortunately they age even faster than the rest of your body. That’s why leading a healthy lifestyle at all levels is key to slowing down the aging process. It starts with the obvious things like nutrition,maintaining a clean, balanced diet and regular physical activity. With our busy schedules it is sometimes difficult to make time for exercise but I would recommend just choosing an activity that you enjoy and try to incorporate it in your routine several days a week. The things that are often overlooked, however, are sleep and stress management — and these two things are super important. Stress is especially critical because too much cortisol (the stress hormone) in your body can disrupt other hormones and create imbalances that directly affect your reproductive health. I know first-hand that going through any fertility treatment can affect you mentally and emotionally. This is normal and this is why it is also critical to look after yourself, ensure that you are getting enough sleep and a good support system around you. And if you are struggling with this, I believe that you should not hesitate to get the help of a professional therapist.

      How can one boost their fertility?
      We just mentioned that leading a healthy lifestyle is a good way to look after your fertility and overall health. If you are trying to conceive or preparing for an egg freezing / IVF cycle, there are a number of supplements that you can take to support your fertility. You can take folic acid, which plays a crucial role in cell division and DNA synthesis, which are both important for egg health. Omega-3 fatty acids are another important nutrient for fertility. These healthy fats can help regulate reproductive hormones and improve egg quality. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is another supplement that is known to support fertility, particularly for women over 35. CoQ10 has powerful antioxidant properties that can help protect eggs from damage. Some studies suggest that CoQ10 supplementation may improve egg quality and increase the chances of conception, especially for women undergoing fertility treatments such as egg freezing and IVF. Lastly, getting enough vitamin D has been linked to improved reproductive outcomes, while deficiency has been associated with infertility. Simply spending time in the sun and eating vitamin D-rich foods can help. However, people who don’t get enough sun exposure or lack vitamin D in their diet might need to resort to supplements.
      At what age would you recommend freezing your eggs?
      The younger the better — and this is indisputable. The ideal age to freeze eggs is typically between the late 20s and early 30s. This is when the eggs are of the highest quality and quantity, which means better chances of successful future pregnancies. While many women don’t even consider egg freezing until their mid to late 30s, starting earlier can provide more flexibility and potentially higher success rates when the eggs are put to use in future fertility treatments.
      How can female infertility be treated?
      Infertility comes in many forms and can have different root causes so it is difficult to provide a one-size-fits-all solution or treatment.That’s why testing is critical for every woman to understand her own unique situation and plan accordingly with the help of fertility experts. Egg freezing is a way to preserve your fertility especially if you have a low ovarian reserve (i.e. fewer eggs than you should have for your age). IVF is another solution for couples who are struggling to conceive. The key takeaway is that the more proactive you are about understanding and preserving your fertility (before issues arise), the better your chances are for a positive outcome. Every situation is unique and we highly recommend discussing it with a fertility expert.
      What are the best tests to have done for women below 35 years?
      If you are not trying to conceive now and are not experiencing any specific hormonal symptoms, then the must-do test is AMH, which stands for anti-Mullerian hormone. It is a simple blood test that gives you a read on how many eggs you have left. If your concern is more related to your overall hormone health, we are soon launching our fertility and hormonal panel test which covers 7 hormones (AMH, LH, FSH, TSH, Estradiol, FT4, Prolactin) and provides insights into conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, diminished ovarian reserve and peri-menopause.
      What are some of the key concerns that women in the Middle East face when it comes to conceiving?
      When we look at the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, one of the pressing issues is a significantly higher infertility rate, which stands at about 50 percent higher than other parts of the world. It’s a complex issue with several factors at play, but one glaring aspect is the lack of education and awareness surrounding fertility and women’s health in general. Unfortunately, this lack of awareness often leads to a reactive approach, where women only seek help after they encounter difficulties conceiving or face complications along the way. Instead of this, we should adopt a proactive approach — and this is where Ovasave comes into play. By taking proactive measures such as early fertility testing, women can get crucial insights about their reproductive health. We’re also striving to normalize conversations about fertility, creating a supportive community where women can openly share their concerns and experiences. This early awareness empowers them to explore various options and make informed decisions about their fertility journey. It’s about providing women with the freedom to choose their path moving forward.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Looking for ways to reduce your stress hormones? 5 easy steps to control your cortisol

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      Feeling frazzled? You’re not alone. Daily pressures can send cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, into overdrive.
      For women, chronically high cortisol can disrupt sleep, worsen PMS symptoms, and even contribute to weight gain. But don’t despair! Here are 5 science-backed strategies to keep your cortisol levels in check and your well-being soaring:
      Power Down for Power Up

      Sleep is the ultimate stress soother. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, including winding down electronics at least an hour before bed.
      Why it Works: According to a study published in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) journal Psychoneuroendocrinology, just one night of short sleep can significantly elevate cortisol levels.
      Breathe Deeply, De-Stress Completely

      Deep breathing activates the relaxation response, a natural antidote to cortisol’s fight-or-flight effects. Practice belly breathing for just 5 minutes daily. Inhale slowly through your nose, feeling your belly expand. Exhale slowly through pursed lips.
      Science Says So: A review published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology highlights the effectiveness of deep breathing in reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation.
      Nourish Your Body, Tame Your Stress

      A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides sustained energy and minimizes blood sugar fluctuations that can trigger cortisol spikes. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine, which can worsen anxiety and stress.
      Move It or Lose It (the Stress, That Is!)

      Exercise is a potent stress reliever. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Physical activity helps burn off stress hormones and promotes the production of feel-good endorphins.
      The Science of Sweat: A meta-analysis published in the journal Sports Medicine concluded that regular exercise is an effective strategy for reducing cortisol levels and improving stress management.
      Connect and Be Kind

      Social connection is a powerful buffer against stress. Nurture relationships with loved ones, engage in activities you enjoy, and consider volunteering. Acts of kindness boost both your mood and the well-being of others, creating a positive feedback loop.
      By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can effectively manage your cortisol levels and cultivate a calmer, healthier you. Remember, consistency is key. Be patient, celebrate your progress, and enjoy the journey to a more balanced and stress-free life!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Unsplash, Pexel & feature image: @xun1020 More

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      16 global restaurants that have made their mark in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 16 IMAGES
      For a myriad of culinary options, Dubai is the place to be. With a host of global restaurants opening in the emirate, diners can choose for a variety of concepts to dine at.
      As Dubai is home to 200 nationalities, so it’s no surprise there are great global dining options and restaurants from all over the world here – there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re heading home for the holidays or just a jet setter, you can enjoy a taste of Dubai around the world in the most luxurious fine-dining setting.
      From Cipriani to Fouquet’s, there’s a myriad of captivating dining concepts that have made their mark internationally and now being loved by both tourists and residents in Dubai. Overall, the emirate has also seen a complete transformation in the food scene as they are finally starting to have its moment in the spotlight, with the Michelin Guide launching in the city in 2022.
      With more international chefs setting their base here and making their mark in this part of the world, Dubai is becoming the center of attraction when it comes to fine-dining options. Over the years, this part of the world has also seen a number of exceptional homegrown restaurants and cafés that have impressed diners in the city.
      As the emirate is well-known for offering an unparalleled fine-dining experience no matter what the cuisine, Emirates Woman takes a closer look at all the global culinary havens that have made their mark in the city.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      7 fabulous activities to try in the UAE this weekend

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      Your ultimate weekend guide in the UAE, May 17 to 19 2024.
      Try a new brunch experience

      Bull & Bear, the luxury steakhouse at Waldorf Astoria DIFC is officially introducing the four-course Saturday brunch. Transport yourself to the Big Apple and experience the true essence of New York glamour with the launch Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre’s new Saturday brunch at Bull & Bear, commencing this weekend. Prices start at Dhs355, the latest four-course Saturday brunch pays homage to 1920s New York – blending the pulsating energy of Wall Street with smooth sounds of live Jazz. This experience is definitely worth a visit with your friends and family.
      For more information visit bullandbeardifc.com
      Watch live comedic on-stage performances
      Get ready for a weekend full of rib-tickling hilarity at the first-ever Abu Dhabi Comedy Week. Between May18-26,2024, an incredible line-up will grace the Etihad Arena – Yas Island stage for live performances including legendary names and rising stars such as Bassem Youssef, Maz Jobrani, Aziz Ansari, Tom Segura, Andrew Schulz, Jokoy, Chris Tucker, Dave Chapelle and more.
      For for more information visit livenation.me
      Transport yourself to Spain

      La Niña unveils its newest culinary journey, La Comida. Paying homage to the Spanish tradition of brunch, La Comida invites guests to celebrate life and togetherness with fantastic food, lively music and an unmatched ambiance. With an expertly crafted, sharing-style set menu, La Niña is here to ensure that there is something for everyone to enjoy. Start your adventure in the streets of Spain with authentic tapas that include Salpicon de Pulpo, Croquetas with wild mushroom and truffle aioli and Gambas al Ajillo. Venture onto the exquisite Paella de Langosta, bomba rice with lobster and octopus. The set menu comes with three drink packages, Dhs325 for the Soft Drinks, Dhs450 for the House Drinks and Dhs550 for the House Drinks and Bubbles. Each sip and bite is accompanied by sensational live music from Cubache and DJ Aitor Glez. The xperience the lively fiesta at La Comida, where the spirit of Spain comes alive with laughter, music and great food. Join the celebrations every Saturday at La Niña in ICD Brookfield between 12:30pm to 4pm.
      Shop ‘til you drop

      If you’re looking to upgrade your summer closet, you’re in the right place. Dubai’s premier boutique Chic LeFrique showcases a curated selection of dresses, sheer robes, jumpsuits, co-ord sets, and more, the Spring Edit embodies the essence of timeless elegance and feminine sophistication. Founded in 2019 in the vibrant heart of Dubai, the home-grown brand embodies the spirit of local creativity and global influence. It’s all about expressing yourself through fashion while still keeping in mind to use great fabrics like airy Linens, Cottons and many more.
      Pamper yourself

      Give yourself the ultimate break and visit Sisters Beauty Lounge for a myriad of services ranging from blow dries to mani/pedis by a team of experts. Aditionally, For the salon’s 20th anniversary, Sisters Beauty Lounge is giving away a 24k gold bar worth Dhs3,000 at the end of this month. To enter the draw, customers simply have to book a service in the month of May and they stand a chance to be part of this exciting prize. The salon can be found in 8 desirable locations across the UAE including City Walk, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, JBR, Al Bateen and more.
      For more information visit sistersbeautylounge.com
      Unwind at a minimal café

      If you’re on the lookout for Dubai’s best kept secrets, you’re in the right place. This emirate is home to a myriad of minimal cafés known for its calming interiors which allow you to take a break from in the city. With a host of cultural enclaves, this emirate has a plethora of hidden coffee shops and cafés waiting to be discovered. Infused with boho-chic elements, each of the minimal cafés is a zen-inspired oasis for guests to unplug and reset during the weekend or weekend. From concrete interiors to a minimalist palette, Scandinavian interiors have gained huge traction over the years as spaces have sheltered away from the overcomplicated design. Be it a conscious eatery or a hidden villa in the heart of Jumeirah, Dubai is never short of minimal cafés where you can work from or simply catch up with friends. For a complete guide on the unique hidden cafés in Dubai, swipe through our editor-approved guide.
      Experience this spac-taco-lar event
      Looking for something different to do in Dubai this weekend than just the usual mall and restaurant? Calling all foodies, car enthusiasts, and social butterflies! Rev your appetite engines and cruise over to Ramy Automotive for a turbo-charged cookout experience with Don Bueno and Tacos Los Hermanos. From tantalizing tacos to fabulous flans, we’ve got the flavors to fuel your night and make this weekend unforgettable. Join us on May 18, 2024, from 6 PM to 12 AM at Ramy Automotive. Plus, bring along your furry friends because yes, it’s pet-friendly too! Whether you’re craving Latin American flavors, looking to connect with the car community, or simply eager to socialize, this event is tailor-made for you. It takes place at Ramy Automotive, Al Quoz 3 on 18th of May, 6 pm to 12 am.
      Eat healthy
      Introducing Go Organic’s detox and weight-loss meal resets—the perfect way to kickstart your healthy eating habits and reach your weight loss goals. Featuring an array of nourishing meals designed specifically for detoxification and weight loss, Go Organic is committed to helping individuals achieve their holistic wellness goals. The menu is packed with delicious options that cater to a wider audience seeking to cleanse, nourish, and rejuvenate their bodies.The Meal Resets offer curated options to help optimise health and well-being, including Gut Cleanse, Liver Detox, Alkaline Reset, Protein Reset, and Skinny Cleanse. From salads and bowls to gluten-free noodles, pastas, ravioli, gnocchi, wraps, and gourmet snacks, there’s something for everyone. Customers can choose from various durations, including 3-day, 6-day, 2-week, 1-month, and 3-month plans, tailored to individual goals and lifestyles.
      For more information visit goorganic.me
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      How this Emirati artist and designer merges heritage with modernity

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      Fashion

      by Camille Macawili
      3 hours ago

      With a honed eye and innate artistic sensibility, Emirati artist and designer Yasmin Al Mulla bridges the gap between heritage and modernity across her creative disciplines.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      My morning routine is a revitalising start to each day. I begin by drinking 500ml of water to hydrate and refresh my body. After a refreshing shower and skincare routine, I savour a warm matcha while planning my day and checking messages. This ritual energises me, ensuring I’m ready to take on whatever the day brings before I head to the office.
      What is your design philosophy and how do you approach it?
      My design philosophy revolves around creating meaningful and impactful pieces that resonate with people on a personal level. I believe that design should not only be visually appealing, but also tell a story and evoke emotions. Drawing inspiration from the captivating culture of the UAE and the Middle East, my art creations seamlessly blend with the remarkable legacy of the brands I collaborate with. I make sure my work pays homage to the UAE while embracing and merging with the rich Emirati culture. Infused with a profound appreciation for the surrounding beauty and the intricate details found in traditional Emirati art and design, my vision encompasses a contemporary and artistic approach, resulting in elevated and luxurious art and fashion.

      Where does your creative process as a fashion designer start?
      My creative process as a fashion designer and artist starts with inspiration. This could come from nature, art, occasion, architecture, or personal experiences or anything in between. I sketch and brainstorm ideas, exploring different concepts and styles. Next, I research and develop my ideas, considering materials, techniques, and practicality.

      Are you more intuitive or more analytical when designing? How do you balance the creative and commercial sides of the business, and do you feel more drawn to one over the other?
      In my design process, creativity is key. I balance intuition and analysis, believing that thinking things through enhances creativity. When managing my two companies, YNM (the clothing label) and Yasmin Al Mulla Design Firm (the art firm), creativity is my focus. While the commercial side is important for business, I prioritise creativity as the driver of innovation and uniqueness.

      Is it sometimes difficult to then translate those inspirations and ideas to a larger team?
      Sometimes, translating inspirations and ideas to a larger team can be challenging. However, I never pay much attention to the difficulties as long as I have the passion and drive to pursue my vision.
      Who do you look up to when it comes to aesthetics?
      When it comes to aesthetics, I draw inspiration from a variety of sources, includ- ing nature, architecture, and cultural influences. I admire the way these elements effortlessly blend form and function, creating beauty and harmony in their own unique way.
      Is travelling regularly also an important aspect of your creative process?
      Absolutely, travelling regularly is an important aspect of my creative process. Experiencing new cultures, landscapes, and ways of life provides me with fresh perspectives and inspires new ideas.
      Have you always been a creative soul in this way?
      Yes, I have always been a creative soul. From a young age, I have been drawn to art, design, and expressing myself creatively in various forms. This passion has stayed with me throughout my life and continues to drive me in my work today.
      How do you curate a creative environment for yourself – are there mindfulness tools and practices that help you fuel your creativity?
      Creating a beautiful environment for my creativity is crucial. I achieve this by curating inspiring spaces in my home and office and surrounding myself with meaningful sources of inspiration and intriguing objects. Additionally, I use mindfulness techniques to enhance my creativity. Activities like working out and practising pilates, and yoga help me clear my mind, improve my focus, and access my inner creativity.

      “I aim to bridge both cultures, creating connections that celebrate and honour the rich heritage of the UAE while embracing the global influences that inspire me”

      You’ve had multiple inter-industry collaborations. What’s on the horizon for YNM and for yourself?
      YNM (the clothing label) and Yasmin Al Mulla Design Firm (the art firm) are two different entities, and I am pleased with the direction each company is taking. YNM continues to innovate in the fashion industry, while Yasmin Al Mulla Design Firm focuses on bespoke creative projects. My ultimate goal with my collaborations has always been, and will continue to be, to connect the beauty of international brands with the legacy of my culture. I aim to bridge both cultures, creating connections that celebrate and honour the rich heritage of the UAE while embracing the global influences that inspire me.
      This is The Creativity Issue – how do you push yourself out of your creative comfort zone?
      In the world of creativity, artists often step beyond their boundaries to explore new mediums and techniques to expand their creative footprint.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      May’s – The Creativity Issue with Tiffany & Co. – Download Now
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      Here’s how to make your floral arrangements last longer

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      A bouquet of big, beautiful floral arrangements always brightens up a room. We love to place a vase of them where we can admire the flowers’, however, learning how to make these floral arrangements last longer is an art.
      With same-day delivery across the UAE, Darcey Flowers is always growing with their bespoke collections ranging from peonies to chrysanthemums, the options to create your own bespoke floral arrangements are endless.
      Founded by Albert Tranquilino, Darcey Flowers has grown over the years in Dubai with two brick and mortar stores in City Walk and Al Quoz, where customers can create their own custom arrangements with fresh flowers. Darcey Flowers meticulously select the perfect combination of flowers, considering factors like color palette, texture, and seasonality.
      These tips on how to keep arrangements fresh longer will help extend the life of your cut flowers by at least a few days.
      To understand how to make any gorgeous arrangement last longer, we spoke to Tranquilino himself to tell us how to help delay the dreaded dropping of petals and make your flowers last longer.
      What inspired you to launch Darcey Flowers?
      Darcey Flowers began as a childhood dream of mine. I’ve always loved flowers and wanted to share their beauty with others. I truly believe that flowers have the power to bring joy to people’s lives. It’s also an opportunity to support other florists and like-minded individuals by helping them find success doing what they love.
      Where are the flowers sourced from?
      Sourcing the finest blooms for Darcey Flowers is a top priority hence we carefully select our flowers from the most reputable farms across the globe. We procure our blooms from regions renowned for their exceptional floral quality including The Netherlands, Kenya, South America, Taiwan, Thailand and New Zealand.

      Could you talk us through what each colour and arrangement means for any specific occasion?
      Each hue carries its unique significance. At Darcey Flowers, we love to play around with different colors to create bouquets that are full of emotion and personality. For instance, we use red to capture love and passion, which is perfect for those romantic moments. White represents purity and elegance, which makes it a great choice for weddings or remembering loved ones. Pink expresses sweetness and gratitude, ideal for occasions like Mother’s Day or birthdays. We also use yellow to bring joy and optimism to our bouquets, making them perfect for celebrations or sending cheerful messages. Purple is our go-to color for luxury and creativity, making it perfect for special occasions or to show admiration.
      What are some of the aftercare hacks that people should practice for their arrangements?
      A general tip for maintaining the freshness of your floral arrangements is to provide them with clean water and a suitable environment. To keep your flowers looking fresh, change the water every few days, trim the stems, and remove any leaves in the water. Now, when it comes to choosing a spot for your flowers, think cool and shaded. Keeping your flowers away from direct sunlight will help prevent wilting and fading, which can make them look less attractive. And if you really want to give your flowers an extra boost, consider adding some flower food to the water.
      What are some of the most popular flowers in the Middle East?
      Peonies, phalaenopsis orchids, and roses of all colors are among the most popular choices.
      What are your favourite flowers personally?
      Two of my personal favorites are peonies and vanda orchids. Oh! How I adore them! There’s just something about peonies and their romantic allure and voluminous blooms that captivates me. And vandas? Well, their striking colors and unique personalities always intrigue me. I think each flower is beautiful in its own way and never fails to inspire me.
      How do Darcey Flowers implement sustainable practices?
      We’ve made some great strides in embracing eco-conscious practices, including introducing eco-friendly bags for our beautiful bouquet arrangements. We’re also encouraging the use of plain water instead of floral foam whenever possible, so our flowers can stay fresh while being gentle on the environment. We believe that even small steps can make a big impact, and we’re committed to doing our part to create a more sustainable future. We will continue to explore eco-friendly practices throughout our operations.
      You’ve also recently started a workshop for floral arrangements? What inspired you to launch this and how is it therapeutic?
      Our main goal was to create a space where people could connect with their inner creative selves, let their creativity run wild, and discover the beauty of flowers in a meaningful way and the therapeutic benefits it bring. As the founder, I’m a firm believer in the ability of flowers to transform moods and promote overall well-being. Engaging in hands-on floral arranging can be a relaxing experience, promoting mindfulness and reducing stress. The workshop aims to empower participants to express themselves artistically, learn new skills, and find pure joy in creating something beautiful.

      Are there any new bouquets that have recently been gaining popularity?
      Monochromatic solid flower bouquets are a growing trend in floral design. These minimalist arrangements showcase the natural beauty of each bloom, creating visually striking compositions that exude sophistication and elegance.
      Which flowers can we preserve once dried and are there any tips on how to do so?
      Several types of flowers can be successfully preserved once dried, allowing you to enjoy their beauty for an extended time. The most common are roses, lavender, and hydrangeas. To preserve flowers, trim stems and remove foliage. Tie upside down with twine and hang in a place with good air circulation away from direct sunlight. Wait for complete drying, which can take a few days to weeks. Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and sunlight.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      Designer Haya Jarrar on her creative process and launching her first-ever home collection

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      Lifeby Camille Macawili1 min ago VIEW GALLERY/ 5 IMAGESA born creative, Haya Jarrar, founder and Creative Director of Romani and Romani Home, shares her path that led to a new design pursuit of launching a home collection.Tap the gallery above for a peek inside the House of Romani showroom by Haya Jarrar.What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?It really depends on my mood. Sometimes I wake up and have my break- fast and then start reply- ing to emails. Other times I meditate or go straight to the beach and start tanning before I go ahead with my day.What pillars of DNA define Romani as a brand and what inspired you to launch Romani Home?What inspired me to launch Romani home is 1) my obsession with interiors and furniture and 2) it was when I started designing my house and designing furniture for it, that’s when I knew I was ready for the launch of Romani home.How many pieces did you launch with and how has it been received?I launched with a lot of pieces. It’s not a small collection and people fell in love from the day we launched.Where does your creative process as an interior designer start?It really depends. It starts with client interactions sometimes or space planning or even my sources of inspiration.In terms of design, what’s more important, having good ideas or having the confidence to put forward your ideas whether they’re perceived good or bad?What’s a good idea without confidence? I think they go hand in hand.Is it sometimes difficult to then translate those inspirations and ideas to a larger team?Of course, sometimes no one gets your vision besides you.What was it that drew you to work in design in the first place?I think it’s something that I was born with… I love creating, and I’m always thinking of new creations in my head – nonstop literally! I think I was born to design.Who do you look up to when it comes to aesthetics?I love Gabriella Crespi – she’s someone I look up to!The Romani Home showroom adds to Dubai’s growing design landscape. Are there bespoke services being offered currently?Yes, I opened this showroom with the intention for people to visit and immerse themselves in the pieces, gaining an understanding of my vision. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the items, customise as they please, and truly experience the space. Appointments are required for this personalised service, which will be available at all times.What are your potential blocks and how do you overcome this?Just keep moving forward and stay motivated.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramMay’s – The Creativity Issue with Tiffany & Co. – Download NowImages: Supplied  More