Bahrain Edition www.womanthismonth.com BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES Digital Edition April 2019 | Issue 194 THE WEDDINGS EDIT TRENDS DRESSES VENUES ACCESSORIES MAKE-UP FOOD THE RETURN OF BLOGGERS LAETITIA AND THERESA WIN, WIN, WIN! YOGA VOUCHERS INTIMATE REJUVENATION FASHION FORWARD YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HOT FOR THE NEW SEASON HOMES SHOW YOUR BATHROOM SOME LOVE
©2019 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. Memories are the one gift you give to yourself. Your wedding is another important milestone of your life. The one milestone that deserves the perfect venue to celebrate it. That is how we understand your wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain: perfection awaits. visit ritzcarlton.com/bahrain.
April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 6 For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request. Please e-mail [email protected]. The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised. Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at [email protected]. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. FEATURE WEDDINGS 14-16 Dress Trends: The most beautiful bridal gowns from the 2019 shows 18 Accessories: Those all-important finishing touches 20-22 Trends: The latest in décor, food, favours and more 24-25 Make-up: Instagram artist Silva Samara demonstrates how to get a dreamy wedding look 26-27 Venues: The perfect spots to say “I do”. PEOPLE 30 Tanzeel Khadir: Telling More Bahrain Stories FASHION 34-37 Trends: Fernanda Langhammer on the hottest styles for the coming season BEAUTY 41 New Products: The latest goodies on the beauty counters 42 News: Chat and gossip, news and happenings LIFESTYLE 44 Wellbeing: Tackling pre-wedding stress 45 Wellbeing News: Information on the latest developments 46-47 Homes: Bathroom update on a budget 49 Food: The bloggers are back 50 Opinion: Ouiam Charkani El Hassani 51 Opinion: Vegan View 52 Opinion: Pria Masson Tanwar 53 Competitions: Pure Yoga + Cycle vouchers. Intimate rejuvenation treatment. 54 In Her Shoes: Sajida Imran 18 49 APRIL 24 47 Scan the codes for information from our advertisers Ramee Grand Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain Specialist Hospital Asia Jewellers K Hotel Sheraton Ambassador Stores Grove Hotel 34
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www.womanthismonth.com April 2019 8 It’s hard to believe that wedding season is here again, but spring is in the air and it is definitely so. Brides (and grooms) across the Kingdom are turning their thoughts to matters nuptial, so we’ve rounded up the seasons hottest wedding trends – I particularly like the options of personalised favours and food trucks – the most beautiful dresses around, a selection of great venues and lots more to help your big day go with a swing. Online, at www.womanthismonth.com you’ll also find our big wedding calendar available to download – it’s a 12-month, step-by-step of what needs to be done by when and is always popular. Also, this month, Fernanda takes a look at the new season’s fashion trends. Surprisingly, it turns out I’m ahead of the wave – blush pink metallics and oversized polka dots are more of a uniform in my life than a seasonal whim, I knew the rest of the fashion world would eventually catch up. That may sound odd but have you noticed how many of us adopt a certain style and stick with variations of it in virtually everything we wear? My sister has more striped shirts than you can shake a stick at; I have friends who live in dark suits for both work and play; and one acquaintance is never without her floral shift dress and pearls. There’s no doubt that familiarity is comforting but, after checking out the new season’s trends, I feel a wardrobe reshuffle coming on – let me know if you’re heading the same way. Speaking of making changes, I’m very happy to have food bloggers Laetitia and Theresa, of liveandtaste.com, back for their quarterly appearance. With weddings in mind, I asked them to come up with something partysuitable and they certainly didn’t disappoint. With ideas from them, Lahan’s regular informative columns and the launch of a new vegan menu at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, I can predict plenty of readers giving plant-based a try. Elsewhere in the mag, you’ll find our regular round-ups of news from the worlds of beauty, fashion and wellbeing as well as ideas for dealing with stress and tips on how to revamp your bathroom without spending a fortune. I hope you enjoy the read and I’d love to hear what you think of the wedding feature or anything else that catches your eye. chairman & publisher GEORGE F MIDDLETON editorial director LIZ O'REILLY contributors BEHNAZ SANJANA FERNANDA LANGHAMMER OUIAM CHARKANI EL HASSANI LAHAN SPERINCK PRIA MASSON TANWAR LAETITIA AND THERESA layout & graphics HATEM MONEM media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media managers FARHEEN AHMED print production manager SABU SEBASTIAN photographers RANJITH MOHAN SUBEESH KUMAR NS photography editor MUNA YOUSEF printing press DAR AKHBAR AL KHALEEJ W.L.L., BAHRAIN --------------------- DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director LINI REGUNATH MADHAVAN Video Producer DARIO GODIC Art & Animation Director HATEM MONEM Contents copyrighted 2019© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 Woman This Month is here for the modern woman of substance and aspiration, embodying a personal style while exploring the best of all worlds: fashion, beauty and lifestyle. Bahrain office address Red House Marketing P. O. Box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.womanthismonth.com Published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing P. O. Box 1100, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain April 2019, Issue 194 On the cover: Esposa Bridal (Rental) EDITOR’S NOTE The only women's magazine distributed with the GDN Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director On my shopping list this month – at least in my dreams – is this gorgeous newly released ring from Gucci. I love the shape, the stones and the fact that it’s a bit different. I reckon it would look fab with this mini Ayers bag from Ralph Lauren on my arm.
10 April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Bahrain Food Festival The fourth edition of the Bahrain Food Festival was held at The Park, The Avenues. 9th International Family Fair The British School of Bahrain held its 9th International Family Fair at its campus in Hamala. Painting Competition The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, held its first “Celebrating Art” painting competition, continuing its patronage of supporting the arts. Women’s Day by Cure Nightlife A Women’s Day event was held by Cure Nightlife at Cellar 59, ART Rotana.
12 April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY The Rotary Club of Adliya celebrated International Women’s Day with a charity walkathon at Arad Bay in support of Bahrain’s Women’s Crisis Care International The Bahrain British Business Forum ‘Women in Business’ Special Interest Group in partnership with EuroMotors Jaguar Land Rover celebrated International Women’s Day and Bahraini /UK Mothers day at the Capital Club with guest speaker, Hala Ramzy Fayez, the second vice chairman of the Shura Council and an MOU signing with the Bahrain Business Women Society In appreciation of the female employees of The K Hotel, a combined celebration for Mother’s Day and Women’s Day was held at the lobby where the general manager, Hussain Al Samahiji, expressed his gratitude with a special message, long stemmed roses, and delicious cupcakes The Lioness Club and Al Hala Majlis held a Mother’s Day ceremony at the Majlis
www.womanthismonth.com April 2019 13 FEATURE | weddings WHEN TWO BECOME ONE We’re fast approaching that time of year when wedding fever hits and brides across the island start planning their nuptials. If that’s you, then it’s likely questions will be flooding your mind: what to wear, from fantasy frocks to shoes and accessories? What are the latest options on décor, gifts and foods? And, possibly most importantly, the venue. We’ve rounded up 10 pages of options to help you make your choices and there’s more info, including our popular wedding planner, online at www.womanthismonth.com
Whether you’re going for glam, traditional or something edgy, there’s always something new on the wedding scene. We’ve picked out our favourite trends for the coming wedding season. Feathers Glam is the name of the game this season with designers taking serious flights of fancy via feather embellishments – whether it be frou-frou edgings or all over feather gowns. Keep hair and make-up subtle and accessories super classy to avoid looking like a Vaudeville act. And try to ensure your feathers are ethically sourced. Something Blue It’s a colour that’s long been associated with weddings in the form of your ‘something blue’ but this year, there’s a move towards bringing blue out of the underwear drawer and into the spotlight. Both spring and autumn collections have featured dashes of the colour, from navy to palest baby blue and some designers have gone the whole hog and created blue gowns for the big day. Think ethereal and dreamy for a stunning look. Oscar de la Renta Bridal, Autumn 2019 Monique Lhuillier Bridal, Autumn 2019 Vera Wang Bridal, Autumn 2019 Tarik Ediz Bridal 2019 FEATURE | weddings April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 14
www.womanthismonth.com April 2019 15 FEATURE | weddings Big Bows Bows are another wedding staple but, this season, it’s a case of go big or go home. Designers have taken a serious turn for the architectural in the use of this, usually very girly, adornment. They’re on shoulders, waists, backs – you name it. And they are a style statement all by themselves, particularly if constructed in a contrasting colour to your gown. Go big and dark for a super-edgy look or stick with a selfcoloured or pastel option to accentuate a feature. Caped Crusader You don’t have to be a superhero to pull of this trend, which, to be fair, is not really a trend since capes have been around on the wedding scene forever. But, this year, there are some seriously chic options available which will work well if you’re not overly confident in showing your arms but can be an equally stunning proposition even if your dress has sleeves – think of it as upping the glamour stakes. High-Low Hemlines It pains us to include something that is also known as a mullet in a feature on wedding gowns. However, if we think back to the video for Guns N’ Roses’ November Rain, it doesn’t seem so bad. The high-low, or waterfall, hemline has been seen regularly on the catwalks in recent years and it’s now made the crossover to bridal. Show off a great pair of pins and some seriously sexy shoes with a short hemline at the front and add the unmistakable wow factor with a long train at the back. Platinum by Demetrios 2019 Romanzo by Julie Vino 2019 Victoria Soprano Bridal 2019 Rime Arokady Bridal 2019 Carolina Herrera Bridal, Spring 2019 Elie Saab Bridal, Autumn 2019 Giambattista Valli Haute Couture, Autumn 2019 Oscar de la Renta Bridal, Autumn 2019 Veiled Ladies Could it be the Meghan Markle effect, she seems to have popped up rather a lot since marrying Prince Harry last year, or maybe designers saw Priyanka Chopra's spectacular, one-off piece and decided it was time for stunning veils to have their moment. Whatever the reason, this year’s summer and autumn shows were full of gorgeous confections of lace and net. Jewel embellished and embroidered, they floated around the models to stunning effect proving that the veil, for this year at least, is no longer simply a traditional accessory.
April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 16 Go To The Ball This style is about volume and looking like a true princess. If you're planning to make a dramatic entrance, a classic ball gown is for you – the bigger the better! Think netting and petticoats, it’s the classic little girl’s dream dress and what a way to make an entrance. Just make sure you have comfy shoes, these things can be heavy, and good, strong bridesmaids. Tiers on your Wedding Day So, they say you should not have tears on your wedding day but we can make an exception for this variety. Get the look of lots of movement without the hassle of a huge skirt and long train. This is also a great look if you’re keen on vintage style and, worn slightly shorter, can be a great option for showing off your killer heels. Cream of the Crop A perfect option for our hot summer weather and a great chance to show off some skin, should you wish. The 1980s’ favourite crop top has snuck its way into the bridal wardrobe and, though it might not be the first thing you would think of wearing on your wedding day, it can look rather fab. Go for a fitted top with a ballerina-style skirt or team a vest or bustier style top with an A-line bottom. This style would be perfect for a beach wedding. Esposa Bridal (rental) Temperley London Bridal Autumn 2019 Pronovias Bridal, Autumn 2019 Bridal Willoby by Watters, Autumn 2019 Rosa Clara, Esposa Marchesa Bridal Autumn 2019 Elie-Saab Bridal, Spring 2019 FEATURE | weddings
April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 18 FEATURE | weddings A PERFECT MATCH You’ve said yes to the dress, but it’s the accessories that will lift your look to a whole new level. Get inspired with some to-die-for bridal accompaniments. FOR ADDED GRACE: Open-fingered gloves and jewellery HAIR ACCESSORIES: Choose from hair combs, bands, clips or tiaras CLUTCHES: A lacey number or diamante / pearl embellishments to hold your pocket tissues, compact and mints Available at Leading Jewellers www.kriegernet.com Asia Jewellers Swarovski Halo & Co bhldn.com Kelly Spence Elie Saab Dune London Kate Spade Ted Baker Dune London Jimmy Choo Louboutin GlovesByJana SHOES: Go open-toed, wedge-heeled or classic court
www.womanthismonth.com 19 April 2019 SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Al Hawaj Group held their Mother’s Day Award function under the patronage of HE Jameel bin Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Affairs Indian Ladies Association organised its first programme to celebrate the Women’s Day named “Naari” 3-24-2019 Women this Month Wedding 125 x 190 mm.pdf 1 3/24/2019 3:50:35 PM
April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 20 FEATURE | weddings TOP TRENDS 2019 A wedding is, perhaps, the most traditional of celebrations but, with ever more choice available and couples frequently opting to pick up part, or even all, the bill, they are most certainly evolving. For now, it’s probably fair to say that flowers, stunning attire, good food and family get-togethers are non-negotiables, but how you interpret them can make your nuptials a very individual day to remember. We’ve rounded up some of 2019’s best wedding trends for you to consider. Last year we reported that touches of black had made their way, very elegantly, into the bridal realm. This year that slightly sombre mood is more pronounced with venue décor, floral arrangements and table settings embracing edgy, dark hues. No, this doesn’t mean you have to go Gothic (unless, of course, you want to) but layering white or pale place settings and napkins over a dark base tablecloth dressed with dark foliage (real or convincing fake), shimmering candles and lots of sparkling glass – or reversing the colours – will create a dramatic effect. After a few years of stands laden with designer cupcakes and pretty dessert tables bearing a plethora of different treats, it seems the big, one-piece wedding cake is making a comeback, if it ever really went away! The Meghan Markle effect is still in evidence with couples opting for delicate, natural flavourings and allout beautiful decoration. Colour is another big element with gold, bronze and pale pastels much in abundance. But, if you really can’t bear to ditch the cupcakes, why not go for both with a single layer of wedding cake and the rest simply for decoration and the cupcakes arranged on the side tables? If you’re not going for a church wedding and, in some cases, even if you are, there’s absolutely nothing that says you have to walk down the aisle and say your vows with your back to a room full of your nearest and dearest. Lots of couples are taking inspiration from conference-style set-ups such as circular or square seating arrangements which allow them to play to the audience, as it were. Everyone loves balloons, right? Proving they’re not just for kids, the latest trend is for balloon walls rather than flowers. Arrange them around the doors, snaking around pillars or even hanging from the lights – and wait for the fun as your evening guests decide to try out helium karaoke! DARK MOODY ACCENTS STATEMENT CAKES SWITCHING THE SET-UP BRING ON THE BALLOONS
www.womanthismonth.com April 2019 21 FEATURE | weddings WEDDING ART OFF THE WALL This is an idea from the States, courtesy of marthastewartweddings.com, and it’s one we absolutely love. Hire a local artist, of which Bahrain has plenty, to render some part of your big day – it could be the venue, an element of the décor or something else of your choosing – then use the illustration in multiple ways such as on save the date cards, invitations or seating cards. Stray away from the traditional string bulbs and fairy lights to include statement lighting in your décor. It could be anything from Chinese-style lanterns to storm lamps lit with candles. Whatever you choose, lights always make a big impression, so going for something distinctive will help to lead the rest of your scheme. You don’t have to dress like a ComiCon character to embrace this trend. Couples are inviting Stormtroopers, Hobbits and the like to turn up on the day and mingle with guests – think of the photo opportunities. There’s also a move towards fortune tellers, balloon twisters and magicians to add to the experience. Think mounds of profiteroles – croquembouche on a grand scale – pyramids of macaroons, or anything else that can be crafted into gorgeous architectural-style formations. Add on creative live cooking stations such as crepes or smores or treat your guests to a delicious cheese fondue. According to theknot.com, having a special scent crafted specifically for your big day is the way to go. Smell is one of our most important senses and having your personalised scent sprayed around the venue, spritzed on invitations and even gifted in candle form as a wedding favour, means your guests will always associate that fragrance with you and your wedding day. LIGHTBULB MOMENTS INTERESTING EATS SMELL THE MEMORY Gone are the days of choosing between a DJ and a band. Follow the clubbing trend (think Café del Mar) of having both. Find a DJ who’s happy to perform alongside live musicians – anything from electric violins to saxophones – and you’ll be bringing a little bit of clubland and individuality into your big day. DJ PLUS…
April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 22 FEATURE | weddings VELVET Usually considered a winter fabric, velvet is set to go non season-specific this year – wedding watchers say it will be everywhere. The summer might be too hot for a velvet dress (though given that, in our climate, venues are always air conditioned, that’s not exactly true) but you could always make use of this gorgeous superluxe fabric in your shoes or dotted through your décor such as in bright swathes on the table or as giant bows on the chair backs. You could go for the old favourite of sugared almonds wrapped in pretty netting but a big trend this year is for favours that say something about the couple. It could be anything from mini tartan-tied Haggis, if either of the couple are Scottish, to artisan olive oils, teas or spice blends. A great idea from thisisinsider.com is to send guests away with packets of seeds that they can plant to remember the occasion. Both couples and wedding planners are keen to find ways of making weddings – which traditionally create a great deal of waste, from gift wrapping to leftover food – into much more sustainable affairs. You might choose to send digital invitations and RSVPs, opt for high-quality fake flowers rather than flown-in fresh blooms and arrange for any leftover food to be donated to charities such as those supplying food to poor workers or animal rescue centres. DITCH THE WASTE An abundance of food trucks has sprung up across the island over the last year which means Bahrain-based brides can embrace a trend that’s been big on the international scene for quite some time. If your venue has an outside space, why not arrange for a couple of trucks to arrive during the evening, when guests will be starting to feel hungry again. There are vendors around offering everything from vegan and veggie delights to gourmet burgers and speciality coffees. And, of course, few things say weddings like an ice cream van with its chimes playing and the promise of sprinkles. FOOD TRUCKS GOOD GIFTING Sure, you can register a gift list online, to make sure you don’t receive multiple toasters, but wedding gifts no longer have to be restricted to things for the new couple’s home. And, while asking for cash is still a bit of a nono, it’s fine to set-up a honeymoon fund or request donations to a charity of your choice. You could also ask guests to think eco in their wrapping or ask for upcycled gifts if you have creative friends. CUSTOM FAVOURS
BAHRAIN HOTEL /sheratonbahrain Ladies Friday Ladies dining in Al Safir Restaurant either Lunch or Dinner will be entitled to 50% discount on bu et only. Call +973 17533533 Every Friday: Lunch 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM Dinner 7:30 PM - 11:30 PM Beverage will be charged as per consumption.
April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 24 BRIDAL MAKEUP ON POINT BEHNAZ SANJANA On your big day, all eyes are going to be on you, and you want to look your beautiful best. The dress is an important part of the bride’s fairytale, but so too is her makeup! Your wedding day make-up walks a thin line between looking over-the-top and washed out – don’t you want the husband to fall in love with you all over again when you revisit your photo album? Silva begins with prepping Sasha's skin to hold the layers of makeup by first using a moisturiser and primer on the face. “This is important for the foundation not to crack on the skin,” she says. A couple of minutes later, she applies a strobe cream, which gives the skin a dewy glow through the foundation, which she starts to apply with a damp beauty blender, excluding the eye area. “Blending is everything,” she says. “Take time to blend your base well into the skin for a long-lasting, natural look.” She then applies and seamlessly blends concealer under the eyes, at the base of the forehead and on the bridge of the nose. Once an even finish is achieved, she sets the concealer in place with loose setting powder. Once Sasha’s eyebrows have been darkened a bit, and face contoured with expert brush strokes around the cheek bones, tip of the nose and forehead, Silva turns her attention to the eyes. An eyeshadow primer allows the makeup to last through the nuptials and the afterparty. She starts with a neutral light brown hue in the crease of the lids and goes on to outline the shape of the eye to layer more colours within. She says: “This shade is the current trend. It matches all outfits and most skin tones.” At the outer corner of the eyes, Silva applies a pinkish-brown pigment in small circular motions to blend in with the base shade, she does the same on the lower lash line. Silva’s Tip: If you are worried about eyeshadow fallout, you can put more powder under the eyes, which can be easily brushed off with a fan brush. Silva’s Tip: Do not apply your eyeshadow all at once. Use small amounts in small areas and build up as you go. Make-up artist Silva Samara waves her magic brushes on make-up model Sasha to demonstrate a perfect bridal look. FEATURE | weddings
www.womanthismonth.com April 2019 25 FEATURE | weddings The facial artist then chooses a pink glitter from the palette to dab onto the middle of Sasha’s eyelid. This is topped with golden glitter, with a touch in the inner corners of the eyes to open them up, giving them the look of being big and bright. Giving a subtlety to all the sparkle, Silva blends in a dark brown matt shade on the outer corners and the lower lashes for a sultry, smoky effect. The eyes are lined with black gel liner before and after the delicate task of attaching false eyelashes, while a layer of mascara makes the lower lashes look fuller. The cheek bones and bridge of the nose are highlighted with a cream highlighter before Silva gives a final touch-up with loose setting powder for a photo-finish effect. Once Sasha slipped into her gorgeous, pearl embellished wedding dress from and diamante tiara from Bridal Belle Boutique, Silva filled in her lips with a pink lip colour, and dabbed the middle of her pout with a glossy blush tint to make them look fuller. Check out @silvasamara_sss, @stunning_sasha, and @bridal_belle on Instagram Location courtesy @itsfilmybh Hotels 40m Restaurants 25m Entertainment 65m Serviced Apartments 35m Cafés 20m Your local search engine for restaurants and hotels in Bahrain www.thebhrg.com The Bahrain Hotel & Restaurant Guide 2018 @thebhrg @bahrainhotelandrestaurantguide Featuring: Apps / Updates & Blogs / Promos & Deals / Events / Menus / Videos / Photos / Answer Reviews & Chats / Listings / Digital Campaign
www.womanthismonth.com FEATURE | weddings WHERE’S YOUR SPOT? Where you choose to say ‘I do’ is one of the most important wedding planning moves, and will set the tone and mood for your celebration. Bahrain has abundant options that can suit a variety of tastes and budgets. We’ve rounded up some of the best. The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain The luxury hotel’s opulent Al Ghazal and Al Noor Ballrooms are fit for royalty and are sure to make a statement at your wedding party. But for some true Middle Eastern exuberance, couples can choose to celebrate in the Al Khayma tent. To give your nuptials some Hollywoodstyle flair, there’s no better place to exchange vows than on this high-end property’s private island. With grand décor, a lavish dinner spread, and the various packages available: Elite, Sapphire or Diamond, the hotel will exceed your expectations in bringing your wedding vision to life. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay The wedding specialists at this hotel will help you custom design your fantasy wedding – from flowers and photography to décor and deliciously personalised menus. The warm and bright Al Bahrain and Al Manama ballrooms, combined with the expansive outdoor terrace and oval-shaped lawn complete with skyline views all make for a chic wedding setting. For traditional nuptials, the two adjacent ballrooms can host separate men’s and women’s celebrations, with live music being piped from the adjoining band room into both sections. The bride gets the ultimate convenience of a luxuriously designed Bridal Suite with a private entrance for the bridal party, as well as a photography room, pantry, separate living room and companion suite. The property takes great pride in being your perfect partner in planning your big day. Sheraton Bahrain This hotel promises you a stress-free event that will be unforgettable for both you and your guests. Sheraton Bahrain Hotel understands that food is an important component of any wedding celebration, and the talented chefs are well equipped to prepare lip-smacking fare for your gathering. The wedding associates will walk you through every step of the way – from floral décor to lighting and entertainment, so your reception is just the way you dreamed it. Al Taj Ballroom boasts of a spacious pre-function area, while the Awali Ballroom, with its rich, Arabesque interiors, is an ideal option for a traditional Bahraini wedding. The hotel’s comprehensive wedding package offers a one-night complimentary suite for the newlyweds, and is great value for money. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Whether you want to proclaim your unconditional love in a cosy, indoor setting or outside by the beach to be witnessed by nature’s elements along with family and friends, this sprawling property lets you do it your way. Here is where impeccable French hospitality meets the warmth of an Arabian welcome, and you can rest assured that your special day will be made all the more wonderful by the hotel’s expert wedding planners. You will be given a choice of inspiring ideas for everything from the invitations to reception menus, decorations, centrepieces, floral designs and entertainment. Breeze through your gala celebration and then unwind at the property’s hydrotherapy spa – it doesn’t get better than this! April 2019 26
www.womanthismonth.com April 2019 27 FEATURE | weddings InterContinental Regency Bahrain The unique and versatile banquet spaces at this hotel can accommodate up to 350 guests and provide an unforgettable reception venue. The elegant Al Thurayya and Ambassador ballrooms both provide natural light, while the grand Al Rifaa Ballroom has an exclusive access, a private Majlis, pre-function area and spectacular high ceilings. The culinary team prepares innovative, fresh and seasonal dishes sure to impress you and your guests. At InterContinental Regency Bahrain, the dedicated team of professionals is on hand to ensure you are free to focus on your joy and happiness, leaving the nitty-gritties to them. Classic or casual, intimate or grand, InterContinental Regency Bahrain customises a package that suits every need. Crowne Plaza Bahrain This is a tried and tested wedding venue, that gives the bride and groom the ideal way to simplify the logistics of their big day by selecting one from the bundle of professionally designed packages. The hotel has a dedicated Wedding Office in the main lobby, where a professional coordinator is committed to delivering top-quality services and providing hosts everything they need to plan the perfect nuptials. As part of the establishment’s new and improved catering services, a variety of choices have been added to make your day truly special. From a wide range of dishes to pick from to a selection of flower arrangements and new cake designs, you can even opt for your own preferred stage décor. Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Located in the stylish Seef area, this property has a spacious and adaptable 800sq/m ballroom, which can easily accommodate 600 guests. The hotel’s team of capable technicians and event planners can offer a wealth of inspiring ideas, helping to create a seamless wedding experience for you and your guests. With delicious food options spanning a variety of cuisines, a beautiful ambience created as per your liking, high service standards and state-ofthe-art sound technology, whether your wedding is an intimate gathering or a grand function, it is sure to be a roaring success. The K Hotel This four-star property nestled in a pleasant corner of Juffair is ideal for a small, intimate gatherings of family and friends. The banquet room can accommodate 100-120 guests. The hotel promises a delicious spread of culinary delights, spanning Arabic, Mediterranean, Indian, Oriental and European cuisines. And the talented kitchen team will be happy to create tailor-made menus of your favourite dishes. There are also regular special offers for the wedding season. The Grove Hotel & Conference Centre Space is not an issue at The Grove Hotel’s stunning ballroom and conference area, which spans over 1,020sq/m and can accommodate the largest of wedding parties. The versatile space can be transformed into a magical venue for your special day, and can be easily customised and partitioned to accommodate up to 650 guests. The sophisticated pre-function halls and beautiful bridal reception room are decorated in a style that is unique to the property, which is located in stylish Amwaj Islands and promises clients they will not be disappointed with all the special care and attention given to their wedding party. Gulf Hotel, Bahrain Bahrain’s indigenous hospitality brand sets the perfect stage for your momentous day. Whether it’s a conservative wedding with all the customs of your heritage being followed, or one with contemporary glamour, the experienced wedding coordinators will take care of the details and help make your imagination a reality. Say your vows in either the Al Dana or the Awal ballrooms, or in the outdoor tropical garden under the sky. The bundle packages offer added conveniences of a wedding cake, a deluxe suite for one night and in-room honeymoon breakfast the morning after. NEED MORE INSPIRATION? Check out La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art; Gallery 21; the Royal Golf Club; Bahrain International Circuit; ART Rotana; Jumeirah Royal Saray and Al Areen Palace and Spa.
April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 28 showcase WOMEN IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY Two recognised authorities in fashion share their thoughts on how women can express themselves through the way they dress and the changing face of the region’s fashion scene. Hosts Amna Al-Amer is a mother of two beautiful daughters and a full-time employee at the Court of the Crown Prince office. Currently, she is working at the Royal Fund for Fallen Servicemen as the head of finance and services. She has a Bachelor’s in Business Information Systems from the University of Bahrain and a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA). Amna completed her Executive Master’s Programme at Cambridge in the UK. She continuously aspires to develop herself, gain knowledge, as well as teach as a volunteer at Injaz Bahrain. She is also an active athlete, currently participating in Triathlons, and has completed two 70.3 Ironman competitions. What is fashion according to you? Fashion is a statement of who you are, it’s how you dress to present yourself to the world. How important is it to be fashionforward in the corporate world? Dressing in a fashion-forward manner could make those you work with have a positive opinion about you. Although we don’t like to judge people, it could be an effective weapon to get your point across to others. If you dress fashionably you will give an impression that you are on top of your game, and that you know what it means to be updated! How can women dress differently in the boardroom from daily life? It all depends on the occasion of the meeting, but I feel if you wear a business suit it would look the most formal, if you wear a blazer it is less formal, and throwing on a jacket could be considered as the least formal. How has the fashion scene in the Middle East evolved and how can fashion traditions be kept alive in the way women dress today? We have come a long way, specially in the modest fashion aspect. This concept is recognised beyond the Middle East and across Europe and the United States. Nowadays, online stores all around the world have a modest section of clothing for women to choose from. Today, there are various applications available that engage consumers and enable them to send feedback about what they really want. These apps are a huge indicator for the industry to measure the growing demand for modest fashion. Contrary to popular belief, modest fashion is not just for Muslims; many ladies from other religious outlooks are looking for modest fashion. I feel that the trend is spreading, and it reflects how a woman respects and presents herself. How can a modest dresser stand out for her fashion sense? Well, every woman has her own style and a way to dress that’s comfortable to her. I feel that adding layers, accessories or elements to the outfits can really draw attention to one’s style. What can be done for Bahrain to have its own indigenous fashion industry? Bahrain’s fashion industry is taking forward steps in creating its own local brands and styles. My very own friend established her line last year and it’s a huge success. I am very proud of our home-grown brands that are getting economic support and guidance from Tamkeen to level up their fashion game. AMNA AL AMEER Head of Statistics and Reports at the Court of the Crown Prince
showcase www.womanthismonth.com For inquiries please contact the brand managers via email: [email protected] or on whatsapp 34 422-227 / 33 282-228 Duaa is a Bahraini fashion stylist and blogger, holding a BA in Fashion Styling and Photography. She has studied and lived in Hong Kong, where she found most of her inspiration. She is considered one of the most popular bloggers in the Kingdom, having been present online since 2011. Her fresh ideas and outlook have rightfully earned her an average of 40,000 readers on her blog and up to 7,000 followers on social media. She focuses on personal and editorial styling and has worked alongside many of the Kingdom’s renowned designers, such as Eman Heider for Lalla Eman and Shaikha Farah Al Khalifa for ByFara7. DUAA ZAINAL Certified stylist from London College of Fashion What is fashion according to you? Fashion to me is not about wearing high-end brands and following the latest trends. It’s about expressing my personality and emotions through the colours and prints of my outfits. How important is it to be fashionforward in the corporate world? It’s important for a woman to dress well and look presentable in the corporate world. However, being fashion-forward depends on the field you work in. For example, a woman that works in an industrial field will not go to work wearing the latest Manolos, but a woman that works in the fashion industry definitely would. How can women dress differently in the boardroom from daily life? Choosing the right colours and prints is essential when dressing professionally. Concentrating on settled or dark colours, with fewer prints, as well as being conservative in your style, gives a serious and professional impression, as opposed to dressing up in loud, bright colours with big prints, which gives a more playful impression. How has the fashion scene in the Middle East evolved and how can fashion traditions be kept alive in the way women dress today? The simplest example on the advancement of fashion in the Middle East is the evolution of the abaya which is the main traditional factor for Arab women, especially in the GCC. Over the past five years this garment has rapidly changed in terms of shapes, cuts, colours and prints, giving the Khaleeji woman the freedom of expressing her style while still maintaining its conservative purpose. Women today dress in the most beautiful and glamorous abayas that are designed for all occasions and come in all various designs and shades rather than a plain black abaya. How can a modest dresser stand out for her fashion sense? The modest dresser today has a variety of options which were not available 10 or 15 years ago. Referring to my previous point with the evolution of the abaya, there are many recent trends that can accommodate modest women and help them stand out and be as fashionable as any other woman, such as the loose harem pants, long dress shirts, kimonos and more. What can be done for Bahrain to have its own indigenous fashion industry? I would love to see Bahraini women be more creative and express their own ideas and personality in fashion rather than follow the latest trends. There is very high potential for Bahraini women to excel in the fashion industry and I believe that creativity as well as full support and encouragement can help Bahrainis to have their own indigenous fashion industry. April 2019 29
April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 30 PEOPLE | interview More than a year ago, Tanzeel Khadir’s first project gained widespread recognition. Realising how little people in her home country of Australia knew about the region and its people, she launched 100 Bahrain Stories as a Facebook page sharing the life stories and recollections of interesting folks she met across the island, from street cleaners and market traders to high-powered businessmen and women. The Facebook page was eventually turned into a popular book with proceeds from the sales going to charity. And, once that was completed, Tanzeel wanted to concentrate more on some of the amazing, inspirational women she had met during her initial research offering more in-depth stories. She explains: “When women were featured [in 100 Bahrain Stories], people [outside the region] would tell me they didn’t realise there were sportswomen and high-achieving women here. There’s one woman who’s an entrepreneur, she works on a market selling under garments; she’s her own boss and is driven. She is a covered lady and her business is selling lingerie – I found these images to be very interesting and thought provoking. “I thought, this time, I’m letting the process take its course; the pieces are going to be longer format. I’m not aiming for the quick bite. Before, I started with 300 words, I didn’t know if people would want to read more, but the demand is definitely there and I’ve had support from some very influential women such as Alice Samaan [the first female radio presenter in the Gulf, first woman on the Shura Council and later Bahrain’s Ambassador to London!] and others who have been generous with their time and their recollections. “I find that women are more accessible to me, as a woman and I believe it’s really important to explore women’s issues at this time when so much is changing. I just interviewed a woman who is chief of legal affairs at the constitutional court – women in Bahrain have always broken barriers and they are continuing to do so.” But, she adds, it’s not all about high achievers, there will be plenty of inspirational everyday people featured too. “I’m happy to focus on those who are at the top of their game,” says Tanzeel. “But also, ordinary people doing extraordinary things.” Finding the subjects is mostly word of mouth with kind friends and Facebook page readers coming up with suggestions for people to be featured. “A project like this doesn’t happen without support and it really does take a lot of work but, in my experience, women generally like to chat about their lives and experiences and area willing to share,” says the writer. Sharing her own inspiration, she concludes: “As a mother of two daughters, I am always mindful of the role models they have in their lives. Whilst we live in Bahrain, I cannot think of a better way to present them with positive female role models than by showing them a group of inspirational women from all walks of life who are doing wonderful things right here in the Middle East. I think girls, young women and even young men, for that matter, stand to benefit a lot when experienced women who are innovators or trailblazers in their field share their stories.” The woman who brought us 100 Bahrain Stories tells Liz O’Reilly why she has decided to launch a new project dealing with women’s experiences. MORE BAHRAIN STORIES
www.womanthismonth.com April 2019 31 At what stage of trying for a baby is a couple considered to have a fertility issue? Infertility means not being able to get pregnant after one year of trying (or six months if a woman is 35 or older). Somewhere around 25 per cent of couples will be pregnant at the end of the first month of trying. About 50 per cent will have conceived in six months. Between 85 and 90 per cent of couples will have conceived by the end of a year. How is this officially diagnosed? You may have a general physical exam, including a regular gynaecological exam. Specific fertility tests may include: • Ovulation testing, hysterosalpingography, ovarian reserve testing, other hormone testing and imaging tests. Depending on your situation, rarely the testing may include: • Hysteroscopy, laparoscopy or genetic testing, which helps determine whether there's a genetic defect causing infertility. Not everyone needs to have all, or even many, of these tests before the cause of infertility is found. What are the main types and causes of infertility? Ovulation disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothalamic dysfunction, premature ovarian failure, too much prolactin, damage to fallopian tubes (tubal infertility), endometriosis, uterine or cervical causes. There are also cases of unexplained infertility. How prevalent is infertility in Bahrain and the wider Middle East? Although no official studies have been conducted, I get a significant number of inquiries from patients asking advice about infertility issues. It is difficult to say whether these numbers are increasing, decreasing or static, but it’s a prevalent problem that needs to be addressed adequately. Unexplained infertility is a common problem mainly for young couples who go through rounds of examinations without getting an answer. What are the various types of treatment available? Thanks to technology, there are many treatments available. Sometimes only one person needs treatment, other times both partners will require a combination of treatments together. Fertility treatments often include medications that help with hormones and ovulation, sometimes combined with minor surgical procedures. Two of the most common fertility treatments are: • intrauterine insemination (IUI) • in vitro fertilisation (IVF) Fertility treatment is not the same path for everyone. For couples contemplating pregnancy, there are steps both women and men can take to increase their chances of conception. Step one for both: maintain your overall health. This includes proper nutrition, a regular exercise regimen and maintaining a healthy weight, especially for women. Stress reduction is also important for women trying to conceive. Unfortunately, many stress relievers people use – such as alcohol, caffeine and tobacco – can sabotage pregnancy efforts. Exercise, meditation, yoga and getting enough sleep can all help reduce stress. If one type of treatment is unsuccessful, is a different result likely with another method? When speaking about fertility treatment, it is commonly assumed that everyone’s fertility treatment path looks like this: first Clomid, then IUI with injectables, then IVF. However, it is more complicated than that. Everything depends on the cause of infertility and individual response to infertility treatment. Is there hope for those who experience unexplained infertility? Yes, sometimes nothing may be seriously wrong: some couples with unexplained infertility will conceive without any treatment help within one to two years of diagnosis. No one knows why or what was wrong, but it happens. A healthy, fertile couple has about a 30 per cent chance of conceiving in any given month. Notice that the odds are not 100 per cent. They aren’t 100 per cent for anyone! Your emotional struggle to conceive is just as real even without a definitive diagnosis. Some might say it’s more intense, because, without answers, you may feel more confused by the situation. Your possible physical problem is also just as real, even if it can’t or hasn’t been diagnosed yet. INFERTILITY 101 Ob-gyn specialist, Dr Natasha Nikolic, shares the knowledge she has learned after more than 24 years in the field. showcase
32 April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Around Town Cat Cafe held its opening event in Adliya The Annual Day celebration of the Indian Ladies Association was held at Wyndham Grand Hotel Manama with guests of honour Indian Ambassador, HE Alok Kumar Sinha and his wife ILA patron, Mamta The K Hotel held its eighth annual staff party The Westin and Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain celebrated their “Associates Annual Party 2018” at the Best Western The Olive Hotel in Juffair A panel discussion was held on the occasion of International Women’s Day at Skyline Lounge The 7th Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup was held at the Royal Golf Club A Mother’s Day and International Women’s Day event was held by Dar Al Manar Parents Care and NQ PR & Events at Foods At Home Restaurant
April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 34 FASHION | trends DOT A DOT SPRING SUMMER 2019 REPORT By Fernanda Langhammer This season, the polka dot print is XXL, look for enlarged circles in contrasting shades (or not!). Black and white is a classic, while red and white calls for attention and brown and black is a sophisticated pairing seeking its place in the sun. Max Mara is all about elegance with dark orbs stamping its tailored creations; be inspired by them! To the nines: Wear full-on spots to ace the trend! To the nines: When picking a suit, don’t forget to pair it with lots of attitude and confidence. In the 1920s, trousers became an acceptable option in women’s wardrobes (in some parts of the globe at least). Almost a hundred years later, we’ve truly conquered this garment and suits are a smart option for ladies worldwide. And the suit is not just for the office environment — a nice, tailored or funky duo can be an interesting replacement for your evening gown. IT’S (NOT) A MAN’S WORLD Dolce & Gabbana Wallis Karen Millen Gabriela Hearst Givenchy Paul Smith COS Massimo Dutti Max Mara Miss Selfridge Lipsy Dorothy Perkins
www.womanthismonth.com April 2019 35 FASHION | trends METALLIC BLUSH BABY BLUE Shiny elements have become a mandatory trend each season, but this time it goes beyond silver and gold, let your girly pinkish elements sparkle! Colours such rose and bubble gum paint textured materials like satin, lamé and velvet for an eye-catching effect. Marc Jacobs’ collection plays with the pink palette with an added pinch of shimmer. Do you dare to glare? With every season comes its favourite colours. Yellow is always a favourite at this time of the year and, along with it we find, a not always so popular shade – baby blue! This ‘cold’ hue was detected in many catwalk shows and in some collections it stole the spotlight with jaw-dropping appearances. Check out Chanel, Marc Jacobs and Giorgio Armani shows for exciting designs. To the nines: Play with different tones of pink when putting your look together for a shot of pizzazz. To the nines: The faded pigment works well as the base of your look, forget black trousers and go for blanched azure ones! Vivienne Hu Stradivarius River Island Mango Next Dorothy Perkins Coach Glamorous Ulla Johnson Marc Jacobs Prada Giorgio Armani Chanel Marc Jacobs Dune London
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