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    How I got my job as… Founder of this bespoke multi-wellness space in Dubai

    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 CEO & Founder of Blended Wellness and Partner & Creative Director, Solutions Leisure Group, Dominique Laird. The group is a pioneer of the approachable dining, nightlife and entertainment scene, creating the moments people live for, from day to night. With brands such as STK, ULA, En Fuego, Asia Asia and more, the portfolio has expanded over the years and it continues to grow.
    The multi-wellness destination, Blended, combines fitness with a host of pampering options, making it a one-stop for all your self-care needs. Founded by Laird, the concept began with her vision to redefine the meaning of beauty standards in the region. She wanted to create a space where individuals can feel at home and focus on improving their own self-care needs. With a more medical approach to aesthetics, this venue offers an extensive array of cutting-edge treatments such as botox, fillers, threads, or even an IV Drip to boost energy levels.
    To delve more into her journey as an entrepreneur, Emirates Woman sat down with Laird to see how it all began.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    From an early age, I resonated towards ways I could express myself creatively. Whether that be picking up a sketch pad, stitching a Barbie fashion line or choreographing musicals before bedtime. At school, art was the subject I looked forward to, the freedom within the curriculum was unlike math, science and history. It gave room for artistic license, with little to no incorrect answers. I was drawn to opportunities that celebrated individuality, where your work was almost incomparable to others. Art made me happy. Being creative felt natural, it felt easy.
    What was your first job?
    My first work experience was at Toni & Guy. My cousin, Samantha, was head colourist and managed to get me a junior position. I loved working in an environment where the team’s main priority was to make people feel good.Through skill and creativity the team changed people’s mood for the better. Adding value with each swish of a comb.
    What brought you to Dubai?
    Following my passion for creativity and arts, at 16 I moved to London to train in musical theater on a full scholarship. Dancing made me feel alive, without judgment. Expressing emotions through movement felt more natural to me than speech. Classes lead to shows, castings lead to tv and theater. Teaching turned into Contracts, contracts turned into travelling the world and landed me in Spain, Greece and eventually Egypt, where I ran the entertainment for the global music brand, Ministry of sound for Solutions Group. Still wanting to feed my creative need on multiple levels, throughout my career as a performer, I became a professional hair and makeup artist, which gradually combined itself with avant-garde editorial creation and conceptual design for stage and catwalk. I was happily blending all my skills together, building my portfolio with not only performance, but with design and creative direction. My job role today, Group Creative Director of Solutions Group, combines my love of Art, entertainment and design. I am lucky enough to lean on my creative energy to develop concepts, brands, interior design, entertainment, production and all the fun elements in between.

    What inspired you to enter the wellness space?
    Although performing was my passion, it fast-became my downfall. Unobtainable, unsustainable beauty standards became something I very quickly obsessed with. The place where I found the most peace, quickly became a cage of self-hate and disappointment. I was trapped in a very dark place for what seemed like an eternity. After 10 years, both my body and mind were failing to sustain a normal level of daily activity. After accepting the need for change and admitting to myself that I controlled my own happiness, I started the journey of recovery, the same one I walk today. I quickly developed a very good understanding of the importance of self-love and mindfulness. I channeled every ounce of my being into wellness and celebrating individuality in others and myself. Wellness isn’t just a word. It’s a mindset, a lifestyle, an all-encompassing journey that everyone deserves. When the opportunity arose to create a space for people to experience and benefit from multiple aspects of wellness in a single space, I wasn’t going to shy away.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    I don’t have a role within Blended Wellness, I have a goal. I aspire to provide support, knowledge and guidance. To offer experiences and events that inspire and celebrate as many people as physically possible. I aim to provide result driven wellness treatments, services and activities that empower and elevate the mind, body and soul. I want to make a difference to how my guests feel. I want them to know, they are worth it. Every single day.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    Get up, get dressed, get at it. Every morning starts with a sleepy coffee and a small struggle to prize myself into my gym gear. I work out every day, not only for the physical benefit, but the mental clarity and strength it provides. I don’t negotiate with myself. Mind over matter. Something my partner, Paul, and myself firmly believe in. My days are fast-paced, multilayered and far from straight forward. I am organised chaos, always running towards a deadline, deciphering a 4am idea or juggling a new build project. I split my time between being a very busy Creative Director for Solutions Group with my CEO role for Blended Wellness – both, I absolutely adore.

    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    Don’t follow in anyone’s footsteps. Your journey is your own. Find your passion, figure out what it is you are truly good at. Everyone has something that lights them up, just figure out what yours is and run with it. Don’t let pride or the fear of failure dictate the direction you walk. Choose your path and stick to it, relentlessly.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    Speak to yourself with kindness. Treat yourself with respect. Look at your reflection and acknowledge you are one of a kind. Nobody is you.

    And what is the worst?
    I make a conscious decision to forget negative or hurtful advice or opinions. Holding onto words that fail to resonate or benefit me have no place in my mind.
    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
    Cultivating an acceptance of who I was and how I wanted to feel. Battling through the pain and sadness in order to truly believe I was worthy and deserving of experiencing self love.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @dominiquelaird More

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    11 fabulous activities to do in Dubai this weekend

    Your ultimate weekend guide in Dubai, May 18 to May 20, 2023.
    Witness a cabaret show

    Head to Andalucia at Al Habtoor Polo Resort for its all-new Dinner Show. The Dinner Show brings the latest cabaret entertainment to Dubai, complete with international talent. It will feature some of the top artists of this region so you’ll be in for a night packed with a range of dazzling performances. the cabaret is the perfect opportunity to catch different shows and experience the emirate’s unforgettable nightlife. The curtains open with Rocking Opera with West End talent Aaron Pryce-Lewis and Glain Rhys, who have performed in Les Miserables and Phantom of The Opera respectively. Expect an electrifying evening with special appearances from local talents such as Ryan Gibb and Timi Ridgway. The performance will be held on Friday, May 19 and Saturday, May 20 at 7.30pm. The evening is inclusive of dinner and drinks, starting from Dhs450 per person. If you’re feeling fancy, turn the evening into a staycation with packages starting at Dhs699 for two. The staycation package includes an overnight stay, breakfast at the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant and two tickets to the show.
    For more information and to purchase tickets visit alhabtoorpoloresortandclub.com
    Indulge in some self-care

    AWAY Spa now offers new treatments on its menu, which we think would be of great interest to your readers. One of the exciting new treatments is cupping therapy, an ancient technique that is common in the GCC region. These new treatments aim to provide a holistic and rejuvenating experience that helps guests unwind after a busy week. Enjoy a spa day-cation at W Dubai–The Palm with access to everything you need to pause and unwind. Sink into a 60-minute massage at AWAY Spa – select between Detox, De-stress, Go Deep and Reset. Satisfy post-treatment cravings with a choice of one main course and one non-alcoholic beverage at Wetdeck along with complimentary access to WET, the beach, gym and indoor squash courts daily from 10am to 10pm for Dhs599.
    For more information visit mariott.com
    For the coffee lovers
    A unique pop-up known as Coffee District has launched at City Centre Mirdif. In order to see more local names, the dedicated space will be taken over by a local coffee concept every three to four months. This season, RAIN at Coffee District showcases a brand-new experience for coffee connoisseurs. From espressos to flat whites, customers can choose their favourite coffee. Designed with chic wooden interiors, this concept is a must-visit. To complement the beverages visitors can indulge in a host of sweet treats varying from fluffy cheesecakes, baked goodies, pistachio shakes and more.
    Book a laser facial

    Take your facials one step further with The Skin Laundry. As one of the leading skin clinics in not only the region, but the world, Skin Laundry upholds high standards of natural, clean beauty with its signature and professional equipment, staff and and skills. Skin Laundry taps into advanced technology by using medical-grade lasers to rejuvenate the skin cells, boost collagen production, and improve tone/texture for some of the most transformative results you could ever see. They offer 15-minute laser facials that focus on many skincare concerns. Their famous Signature Laser Facial which is safe for all skin types uses ND:YAG laser which is one of the deepest-reaching lasers on the market. Located in Marina and DIFC, this clinic is a must-visit.
    For more information visit skinlaundry.ae
    Unwind at this new lunch spot

    If you’re looking for a great spot to grab lunch and unwind on the weekend, look no further than Dubai’s newest Mediterranean haven, Meda Tapas + Bar. Situated in the heart of the city, Meda opens doors to a unique Mediterranean journey, co-created by acclaimed Chefs Mario Fico and Vincenzo Nigro. Inspired by the crossroads of culture and cuisine across the Mediterranean, Meda celebrates the iconic Med spirit with a contemporary take on the flavours of Spain, Italy, and Greece. Located at Taj Dubai, Business Bay, this restaurant is open from 12pm to 12am.
    For more information visit medadubai.com
    Escape for a pampering day

    For a minication, Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre invites guests to feel sun-kissed, pampered and spoilt with their newest offering, Sky Bliss. On the stylish hotel’s rooftop terrace, a refreshing and snap-worthy glass pool awaits to make the summer heat a non-factor. Footsteps away, masterful massages are delivered at The Pearl Spa and Wellness to a backdrop starring Burj Khalifa, creating a sense of inertia in the heart of the bustling city. Spa time, cool dips plus skyline views equal Sky Bliss. Priced at Dhs600, visitors can laze away in the sun and unwind with a 60-minute massage with Dhs150 to spend on comforting bites and a refreshing beverage. Available throughout summer, this package requires advanced booking.
    For more information visit fourseasonsdifc.com
    Experience a fine-dining meal

    Having recently opened its doors, CouCou Dubai has already caused a sensational stir in the Dubai social scene. This stunning rooftop is situated 52 floors high above The Palm, and promises an unforgettable experience with its scintillating views. With Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a myriad of innovative cocktails, visitors can unwind and celebrate any special occasion be it a birthday or simply a romantic date. Expect dancing, plenty of socializing and cocktail sampling. The night is long at at CouCou, promising an immersive nocturnal experience with striking interiors and hospitable staff. Located at St. Regis, Palm Jumeirah it’s open daily from 8pm to 2am.
    For more information visit coucou-dubai.com
    Satisfy your sweet tooth cravings

    Krema is redefining what it means to create and enjoy delicious desserts with tastes that are reminiscent of European culinary traditions. Offering a range of distinctive flavours all their own, Krema’s mouthwatering Raspberry Madeleine cake celebrates the beauty of life, it’s Mango Passion Madeleine offers a taste of heaven, while Basbosa Pistachio is a true delight to the senses. With several other incredible flavours, including two classics from its sister concept TwoatSymphony represented in a new look: Honey Pudding and San Sebastian, Krema’s customers can receive their orders within two hours anywhere in Dubai. Passionate about designing desserts, Krema brings a new level of culinary skill and creativity that sets it head and shoulders above the rest in Dubai’s dessert scene. Co-led by Joseph El Hajj Corporate Chef and Hassan Salam Executive Pastry Chef from Alabbar Enterprises. Orders can be placed via ChatFood, Talabat, and Deliveroo to be delivered in 2 hours. Krema is also available for pick-up at @twoatsymphony at Dubai Mall.
    Enjoy a sensorial fine-dining experience

    Dream Dubai, the city’s famed dining show venue located in The Address Beach Resort, is expected to debut yet another season, named “The Wild Side. Season 4 of Dream Dubai revolves around a profound transformation as the resident artists emerge from their chrysalis and metamorphose into the untamed side of nature. Animalistic motions, a burst of colour, extravagant graphics, and alluring performances will bring the stage to life, delivering an experience like no other. Guests may expect to be captured by the enigmatic presence of the forest as the raw beauty of nature takes centre stage in an exciting and awe-inspiring theatrical show. Dream is open from Wednesday to Sundays 8pm until late.
    For more information visit dream.com
    Savour an early dinner

    For those who like to have an early dinner, EKAI, an innovative restro-bar and lounge is excited to announce the launch a three-course set menu along with a beverage for Dhs109. Visitors can embark on a culinary journey with a host of international flavours from Hawaii, Japan, Greece and Europe with dishes such as Josper Roast Beef, Beef Tartar, Feta Whipped Piquante and more. As a testatment to DIFC, this world-class experience is a must try this weekend. Located in Burj Damam Building, DIFC, it’s open from Monday to Friday 11am to 3am, Saturday 12pm to 3am and Sunday 5pm to 3am with the early dinner set menu taking place from 6pm to 8pm.
    For more information visit ekaidubai.com
    Indulge in a Sunday roast

    With some classic hits, One Life Kitchen & Café situated in the heart of Dubai Design District has launched The Listening Room. One Life will be serving a cracking roast with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, lashings of gravy and more. The weekly event will continue to bring together the community, who can tuck into a tasty roast, while vibing to the chilled tunes of resident DJ’s Z.N.Di and BoAndMo playing soul, funk and jazz on vinyl records. Aditionally, One Life runs a happy hour on weekdays from 5pm-8pm and full days on Friday, Saturday & Sunday with 30 percent off the full bar. It takes place every Sunday from 12pm to 6pm and is priced at Dhs125 per person.
    For more information visit onelifedxb.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @zoewitherspoon More