Asian Bride 35

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TIMELESS TRENDS

ISSUE No35 • 2013

Breathtaking décor Unusual favours Inspirational Flowers Cutting-edge INVITES Stunning MANDAPS Dream cakes OVER

+

100 fabulous PAGES OF

FASHION

SPRING 2013 ISSUE 35 £4.50

‘We DID it!’

REAL BRIDES SHARE THEIR SECRETS & TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID DISASTERS!

SETTING THE PERFECT SCENE Venues to suit every style & budget

Here comes the

BRIGHT Bridal beauty takes a bold new direction you’ll love

Believe in

C I AG

Spellbinding style ideas for spring

Catering and Event Management Specialists www.preeticatering.co.uk info@preeticatering.co.uk 0208 606 0303 IFC Preeti catering.indd 1

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Photography: James Rudland | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Faces by Avina Team using Estee Lauder Creative Direction: Shiv Sanghani | Location: The White House @ Beamont Estate, Windsor | Outfits: Charmi Creations charmicreations.com

Shyamal & Bhumika www.bibilondon.com

Multi Brand Asian Designer Couture By appointment only 07931 999 111 0208 133 4666 marni@bibilondon.com

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Photography: Paul West | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Makeup: Nina Ubhi Styling: Marni Kaur | Creative Direction: Rachael Elliott | Location: Aynhoe Park

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Photography: Paul West | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Creative Direction: J Wimal Outfit: BIBI London | Jewellery: NK Collection nk-collection.com

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Photography: Nina Kadatko | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Roshni Patel | Location: Eltham Palace ab35_fashion - Kajal.indd 4

M: 07940 500 455 W: www.kajals.co.uk E: kajalscouture@hotmail.co.uk

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Photography: James Rudland | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Faces by Avina using Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Styling and Creative Direction: Rachael Elliott | Location: Addington Palace

Kiran’s ab35_fashion - kirans.indd 2

231 Soho Road, Handsworth, Birmingham, B21 9RY 0121 554 9494 • sales@kiranscreations.com www.kiranscreations.com • www.facebook.com/kirans.birmingham

Stockists of Kyles Collection

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contents

177

ISSUE 35 SPRING 2013

88

93

108

INSPIRATION

121 VENUES NEWS Hold the front stage!

49

BRIDE IDEAS Here to make your day

312 THE ART OF MAGIC Picture this...

55

BRIDE IDEAS GIFT Presents to buy for

83

CENTRE OF ATTENTION

FASHION

Eye-catching table décor ideas

51

85

PETAL ATTRACTION Floral

88

CAKE EXPECTATIONS Demand nothing but the sweetest

135 TRENDS From ramp to wardrobe

93

ATTENTION STATIONERY Invites

150 LIVING DOLLS Break the mould with

99

FAVOUR THE MOMENT Treats that’ll

arrangements to get obsessed with

that’ll never go unnoticed live on in your guests’ memories 108 THEMES Ideas for rustic, two-tone,

BRIDE IDEAS FASHION The best ways to dress the part

131 FASHION TREND Our favourite catwalk bridalwear

Bibi London’s fairytale range 165 DRESSING THE GROOM Menswear fit for a King 311 WE LOVE LAADKI Find out why

fairytale & vintage weddings 115 COVER STARS Helping you make your mandap

GROOM 159 GROOM CHOICE For the man of the moment

PLANNING 65

UPGRADE OR DOWNSIZE? Get what

75

ARE WE ASKING THE RIGHT

you want, tone down the rest QUESTIONS? What would vendors ask if they were getting married?

95

PRESENT SENSE Know exactly what you want

161 GROOM NEWS Looking after Mr Right 162 THE GROOMZILLA FILES Confessions of a man on the edge of the plunge 169 WHAT’S A BOY TO DO? Stag ideas beyond the pub crawl 171 SPRAY TIME Smell good enough to bite!

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183

253

237

121 264 99 BEAUTY 53

BRIDE IDEAS BEAUTY Best ways to look your best

175 BEAUTY CHOICE Hit the bass notes 177 BEAUTY NOTES Bridal beauty kit lust-haves 179 ASK NINA Our Beauty Editor is here to make up your day

250 FARAWAY ADVENTURES How to tie

262 TOP OF THE RANGE

the knot abroad

The hills are alive in

253 MARRIED IN MAURITIUS Heaven at

Italy 265 MINIMOON First night

your feet 254 VIVA BRAZIL Party in Rio 258 WELCOME TO PARADISE Dive into the Maldives

On the cover

and short breaks

ESSENTIALS 43

Best trends forever 73

180 HERE COMES THE BOTOX BRIDE

EDITOR’S LETTER

ASK AMIT Expert advice from the man with the plan

Nina faces the controversial treatment

237 CONGRATULATIONs Celebrating

183 BRIDAL PORTFOLIO The best bridal

the greatest day of your life

looks for spring

269 DIRECTORY The best wedding

228 ROYAL ACADEMY Perfect the art

suppliers in town

of make up

308 STOCKISTS Where to get

230 UNITED STATES Drawing inspiration

what you’re after

from the sub-continental bride

284 CHECK PLEASE Have you

DESTINATION 57

BRIDE IDEAS HONEYMOON Don’t fly without these

249 DESTINATION CHOICE Your own private island

forgotten anything?

Photography: Paul West Outfit: Haré @ Bibi London Hair & Make up: Avina Shah Jewellery: NK Collection Styling: J Wimal Retouching: Kasum Shaffi

286 SAVE FOR THE DATE Keep your budget in check 317 SUBSCRIBE TO ASIAN BRIDE The only planner you’ll need!

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Photography: James Rudland | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Faces by Avina using Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Styling and Creative Direction: Rachael Elliott | Location: Addington Palace

Kiran’s ab35_fashion - kirans.indd 4

231 Soho Road, Handsworth, Birmingham, B21 9RY 0121 554 9494 • sales@kiranscreations.com www.kiranscreations.com • www.facebook.com/kirans.birmingham

Stockists of Kyles Collection

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Editor’s Letter FIND THAT SPARKLE: ‘As a beauty artist I know making up a bride isn’t just about the make up. Jewellery is as important as the outfit, and whenever brides ask me to recommend a place, I always point them towards chohanfashions.com NINA UBHI, Beauty Editor

PARTY TIME: ‘I’m loving the fairground ride feel – this range my designer friend Lisa Brown made instantly let guests know they were in for a day of fun’ Nipa Patel, HR & Finance Controller

t’s be LeTRENDS TOP TREAT: ‘I love this cake topper because it’s unusual, kitsch and shows a sense of humour’ weddinginateacup.co.uk SHAMMY KALKAT, Marketing Manager

RECORD MAKER: ‘I got my friend this Fair Trade Sari Journal by Fairwind. She takes it with her everywhere!’

LUCY WHITE, Intern

SARI FIRE WINNER: ‘I’ve been on the lookout for a sari to wear at a friend’s wedding that stayed with the traditional theme but still looked glamorous enough to wear to parties. I found mine at Delhi Fashion Week, thanks to varunbahl.com RACHAEL ELLIOTT, Features & Fashion Co-ordinator

Since the new year began, and as always new trends took hold, we in the Asian Bride team have come down with an acute case of the girly. From showstopping centrepieces to sparkly brooch bouquets we’ve gone blooming mad for pretty things. It’s hard not to.

Not only has the signature ostentatiousness of our kind dropped so far off the trendometer we can barely see the bling, but on the other hand shabby chic, however practical for the ‘climate’ over the past years was never destined to suit us. En vogue weddings are elegant, they’re tasteful, and above all else proudly, flagrantly and fragrantly feminine. That’s a real thing by the way - having your wedding scented with your favourite aroma from coconut to clean cotton sheets, and then gifting a little atomiser of it for your guests to take away and remember the day - is one of the hundreds of new and fashionable ways to make your wedding unique and memorable. If you want more, you’re in the right place.

Whether you want to match your cupcakes to your couture lengha or you want your photography to make you look like a film star we have all the inspiration and expert advice you need. We’ve even beefed up our groom section in honour of the impending nuptials of our very own Guest Editor and in-house groomzilla Shihab Salim.

That said, this issue is still J Wimal dedicated to you in all your girly Editor-in-Chief glory, so ladies embrace the change, throw your arms around your feminity like it’s going out of fashion, (even though it isn’t) and be the trend that will make your wedding the truly wonderful and unforgettable day that you deserve.

MAKING YOUR DIAMOND UP: ‘Goddess bless the in-house goldsmiths at Baroque in Brighton for creating my lady’s engagement ring exactly how she dreamed it. Bet she’s wondering whether it’d be as cheap to get me remade from scratch...’ baroquejewellery.com SHIHAB SALIM, Guest Editor

BALL OF LOVE: ‘Bouquets are a bit like poems for me – I can never tell straight away whether they’re great or average. No such problem with pomander balls. I love this one by f lower bydesign.net – more so since I found out they’re also known as kissing balls’ JASPREET KUNDI, Customer Services

BEND IT LIKE BEGUM: ‘It’s not easy finding shoes that go with Asian outfits.

I find every single one at arunaseth.com works wonders ZENAIRA KHAN, Fashion Intern

BITE SIZE: ‘If your guests’ appetite for shiny things is as voracious as their sweet tooth, why not serve up some gold leaf coated macarons. For me Ladurée have a delicious taste that lingers long after the box is empty.

J WIMAL, Editor-in-Chief

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Chilli Mag, Park House, 111 Uxbridge Road, Ealing, London W5 5TL email hello@asianbride.me contact 0871 855 3069

Editor-in-Chief J WIMAL Guest Editor SHIHAB SALIM

EDITORIAL Features & Fashion Co-ordinator RACHAEL ELLIOTT Beauty Editor NINA UBHI Photographer/ Digital Art Manager KASUM SHAFFI Editorial Assistants LUCY WHITE, ZENAIRA KHAN JAS SEKHON

ADVERTISING & PROMOTION Sales Managers SHIV SANGHANI TREVOR JAYAKODY RICKY CHERA Business Developer VIKRAM KAKARIA Marketing Manager SHAMMY KALKAT Events Manager WALEED JAHANGIR

ASIANBRIDE.ME Chief Technical Officer RAJAN KARWAL Graphic Designers AJAY KARWAL PETER GOEBEL

PUBLISHER CEO PALI BANWAIT Chief Finance Officer SUJAN SHAH Operations Manager ALEX KELBERMAN HR & Finance Controller NIPA PATEL Customer Services Team Leader JASPREET KUNDI

AsianBride.me All rights reserved. Reproduction of pictures, articles or artwork in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited, Copyright © Chilli Mag 2013

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189 ilford lane essex ig1 2ru

phulkarilondon.com

facebook/phulkarilondon

020 3538 3066

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Photography: Nina Kadatko | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Nina Ubhi Styling and Creative Direction: Rachael Elliott | Location: Eltham Palace | Jewellery: NK Collection nk-collection.com

BRIDE ideas

ideas

ALL THINGS BRIDE & BEAUTIFUL Silk hydrangea petals, £8.99 per pack confetti.co.uk

Centrepiece of paper

Lead the way

Let your guests know to navigate their way round large venues by hanging cute chalk board signs from the trees (careful not to leave chalk around in case the drunk one gets any infantile ideas!) £8 theweddingofmydreams.co.uk

Freeze dried delphinium petals pack, £7.99 confetti.co.uk

Placing floral centrepieces on every table can be expensive (and many guests often complain of allergies, especially in hayfever season, not to mention their tendency to attract insects). That said, if you simply can’t imagine a décor minus florals, you’ll love the trend of bespoke handmade origami flowers. Tailored to suit your theme and colour scheme, this centrepiece by f lorecer.co.uk (£50) looks like the real thing, only you get to keep it (or gift it to your chosen few as a keepsake).

SNAP HAPPY Willow Tree Table Plan, £80 juliasweddingf lowers.co.uk

ONE FOR THE BRIDESMAIDS:

‘Thank You’ Heart Sterling Silver Necklace, £30 weddinginateacup.co.uk

Ready, steady, cook Just when you’ve fine tuned the four-course banquet, up pops the trend for the midnight feast! Then there’s the trend for replacing canapés with street food stalls indoors and the food truck outside. Solve the problem by asking your caterer to offer a cuisine counter, offering all varieties of light dishes round the clock.

After all the silliness of donning fake ’taches and posing with ridiculous props in photobooths, brides are on the hunt for alternative ways for guests to take snaps, while having just as much fun. Videobooths are an option (albeit a daunting one), but we love the idea of having a booth and a guestbook in one (photomingle. com), and the easy and fun-to-navigate Flipbook studio (funf lip.co.uk).

© Indigo (indigos.co.uk)

Cup winner

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If you’re in two minds over the cupcake tower and a traditional cake - have both. These cute little beauties are a handy way to ward off the munchies well into the evening. £34 for a box of 12 bouf.com

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Photography: James Rudland | Retouching: Nina Ubhi | Hair & Makeup: Faces by Avina Team using Estee Lauder Creative Direction: Shiv Sanghani | Location: The White House @ Beamont Estate, Windsor

charmicreations.com info@charmicreations.com 01923 519 545

17/02/2013 18:51

ideas Shoe story

Ask any bride what her biggest headache was on the day and she’ll tell you it was the pain in her foot that caused her the greatest discomfort. There are plenty of stunning bridal footwear out there, but few that you can wear all day or slip off without fuss. Brides in pastel will love the Anais Ivory silk lace shoe overlaid on duck egg satin £175 rachelsimpsonshoes.co.uk

In a flapper This season’s hottest trend, the Great Gatsby inspired roaring 20s fashion is a goddess-send for hen-party dress-up ideas, but for those daring enough to incorporate the antique flapper dress look into their bridalwear, you’ll love thevintageweddingdresscompany.com Prices start from £659

fashion

Blue and white topaz earrings with pave diamond border and post, set in rhodium 14k yellow gold, £2,710 jhadleyjewelry.com

Put spring in your hair with this stunning Veiled Butterfly Jardin fascinator, £160 byharriet.co.uk

BRIDE ideas WAYS TO LOOK PRINCESS PERFECT

Pink double faced silk Charleston garter with white ribbon rose, £63

Get garter

Miniaudiere with large coloured f loral diamantes, £69 olgaberg.com

Classic silk satin peonie garter with sequin f lower embellishment, £38

There’s a quiet revolution going on under the sari. Our readership survey last year revealed many Asian brides are spoiling their man with a treat of a lifetime on their first night by donning garters. As well as being sexy, they’re a pretty handy way to conceal a touch-up lipstick. We love the feminine yet oh so sexy range at shopbleugarters.com

FAIR FEATHER TRENDS Last season saw peacocks and feathers make their mark on the Asian bridal scene in a big way, adorning everything from cakes to centrepieces. This spring, we’re carrying them closer to our hearts as must-have fashion accessories. We love the baroque trend Feather Bridal Bouquet by callacollections.com (£195) and the art deco theme essential – the Ethel Deco Peacock Feather Wedding Fan (£250) from notonthehighstreet.com

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Photography: James Rudland | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Nina Ubhi Styling and Creative Direction: Rachael Elliott | Location: Ealing Town Hall

133-135 LADYPOOL ROAD, SPARKBROOK, BIRMINGHAM, B12 8LH TEL: 0121 4400890

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planning

THE WEDDING

PRICE PLAN

L

ast time you pictured your perfect wedding, you imagined calligraphy on parchment scrolls wrapped in organza

ribbons, cupcake towers and the giant Martini glass centrepiece. But weddings can be as fickle as technology. Just like the Blackberry and

upgrade OR downplay?

Every season, wedding specialists introduce updated packages boasting exciting new features. Will adding a new option mean having to let go of an old favourite?

Learn to modify your plan, and you can still have it all

the Android 2.2 tablet, one blink of the eye, and the finger of trend flicks what was once so hot into the domain of so very last year.

Everyone wants the next best thing, wow all around with little touches they’ve never seen before. And, as with upgrading any new gadget, your service provider will offer you many functions that are more style than content, seemingly must-have extras that overshadow the elements you really need.

To ensure you’ve got the right package, you already have the most important gadget every wedding planner needs – the calculator.

For every new idea the wedding experts throw your way, balance your budget to ensure you can go big on the things you’re sure will be talking points; downsize the parts that won’t need as much attention. The science of planning: for everything that goes up, something else has to go down.

The art lies in working with what you can afford to make yours the big deal everyone wants to sign up for…

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PRICE PLAN

A CUT ABOVE: Laser cut designs are the hottest trend in stationery this year

Worth the paper?

THE PLAN: To make a sophisticated first and lasting impression.

WHY UPGRADE? You want the word-onthe-street to be how lavish your ceremony is going to be. The best way to stamp your mark of sophistication is by sending out bespoke invitations that scream luxury. Naturally, you’ll have to continue the theme throughout your stationery, from the seating plan to the thank you notes. Popular choices in the Asian wedding industry come adorned with rhinestone buckles or floral accents, but if you want to be bang on-trend, laser cut is the way to go.

• Pictured above is a bespoke laser-cut invite featuring crystal initials, £30. To get yours made to specification, log onto intricatecreations.co.uk WHY DOWNPLAY? The keyword for 2013 is ‘interactive’. With ‘eco-friendly’ working as another buzzword in your favour, sending out e-invitations and save the date cards is both a cost-effective and a personalised way to make your loved ones feel part of your celebrations.

Designing or handmaking your own stationery on the day, be they placecards or programmes, is also a great way to let your imagination run riot.

• From chalkboard seating plans to painted pebble placecards, you’ll find a wealth of ideas to borrow (or buy at a reasonable cost if you’re not up to the creative challenge) from etsy.com

Theme too much?

THE PLAN: To host the fairytale wedding of your fantasies.

WHY UPGRADE? Theming is still a relatively new concept in Asian weddings, meaning it’s quite likely many of your elder guests will be impressed by the attention to detail that goes into making a theme work. The hot favourites in the Asian bridal scene include Midsummer’s Nights Dream, Arabian Nights, Indian Village, Moulin Rouge, Fire & Ice, James Bond and, of course, the Bollywood Party.

WHY DOWNPLAY? Beach, garden, winter wonderland, vintage, rustic... the list of possibilities are endless. For a theme to be effective, you have to splash out on every aspect, from the canapes and carriage to the favours and flowers, to ensure they complement the concept. But the thing is, your wedding already has a perfectly good theme – your love story. All you have to do is personalise it: the colours you like, a décor that works. Job done.

• Beach theme is in, so host yours on an actual beach!

Licensed for marriages and civil ceremonies, you can hire Brighton bandstand for £500. brighton-hove.gov.uk

£ CASH IN

UPSIDE: Money is back in fashion, thanks to the revival of the roaring 20s.

With a string of films like The Great Gatsby and Once Upon a Time in Mumbai 2 set to make the roll of the dice glamourous this spring, we’ll be seeing wedding venues transformed into mini casinos with gambling tables, beaded curtains, speakeasy signs and live jazz bands. As well as being a lot of fun, an excuse to doll up and generating lively photographs, it’s also a perfect excuse to dish out simple finger food – everyone will be too drunk to notice!

DOWNSIDE: There’s a fine line between classy art deco and seedy bordellos! © charliebrear.com

THE WEDDING

£ SAVE ON DÉCOR

UPSIDE: 2012 was the year when the stuff of fantasies was literally made up of stuff. Diyas in floral rangolis, floating candles in Keralan urlis, Chinese lanterns, British bunting, neon paper pom poms, mason jars, apothecary jars, vases filled with ice, marbles and shells – every conceivable nook and cranny came chock-a-block with details, details, details.

2013 says goodbye to the old curiousity shop look with couples adopting a ‘less is more’ mentality, with the attention on minimalist table decor, clean lines, simple rustic elements and unfussy ideas.

DOWNSIDE: Asian elders will always equate stripped down with cheap.

UPMARKET HEN PLAN: The roaring 20s is a perfect theme for a fun crowd. Think flappers, feather boas, vintage hairpieces, bodies spraypainted in glitter and gold. unique-vintage.com

PRIORITY CHECK “If your wedding is more important than the reception, does it make sense to skimp on the mandap just to afford a candy bar buffet?”

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planning COVER UP: Marquee weddings are trending in a big way on the Asian wedding scene

In or outside?

THE PLAN: To follow the trend of bringing the outdoors indoors for your spring/summer festivities.

WHY UPGRADE? Want to have a marquee wedding and a ceremony in the great indoors? The image above shows a wedding at Hagley Hall for 1200 seated guests seated. The spacious marquee complete with round tables and chessboard dancefloor, comes with clear roofs so the guests could still admire the impressive hall, with food stations dotted around for when guests are in the mood for a bite under the sun.

•Around £40,000. fewsmarquees.co.uk

WHY DOWNPLAY? At the end of the day, all you need is space. Hosting a glam barn wedding doesn’t always work out much cheaper than hiring a luxe venue, but there’s always the opportunity to turn a family backyard into a magical rustic affair. And for those of you partial to the festival trail, you can create your very own bespoke rave by hosting a weekend-long camp fest in a field, or go the whole hog and take to the woods!

• Enjoy the starlit woodland experience, complete with campfire and log circle (non-campers can stay at the Shephard’s Huts), with a marquee to keep the indoor types entertained. From £4150 weddingsinthewood.co.uk

Cake it on?

THE PLAN: To have the sweetest centrepiece in town!

THE PLAN: To make sure your guests don’t go hungry.

WHY UPGRADE? Once, Asian weddings were just bout the curry and rasmalai.

Then came the canapés and wedding cake, now it’s time for street food stalls, candy counters and the midnight feast. But the trendiest thing to do this year is to invest in a food truck. Most couples hire trucks that serve fried food, but for the upgrade bride, nothing short of oysters will do!

•The oyster bar provided by oystermeister.com comes complete with staff happy to mingle among guests, imparting their wisdom, um, shellfishly.

WHY DOWNPLAY? Welcome drinks, sitdown dinner with wine costs, on average, around £70 per head. That’s more than most people spend at restaurants, and therefore good enough (and certainly more than the gifts you’ll receive, which average at £20 per person). So don’t feel bad about it. Even if you opt for having a buffet, as long as the food tastes delicious, and there’s enough to go round, no one will complain.

• For a wide range of exquisite buffet ideas tailored to suit your budget, log onto induscatering.co.uk

WHY UPGRADE? For many brides, the cake is the focal point of the venue – it encapsulates the theme of the ceremony, the tone of the event, down to the personality of the couple. And all that before the requirement for it to taste heavenly.

The cake-cutting ceremony has become a key moment in Asian weddings, and it’s the one thing that’s bound to feature time and time again in photographs. It simply has to look fabulous.

•Truly Victorian cake by Nicola Hall, £5000. hallofcakes.co.uk WHY DOWNPLAY? Here’s a little secret. Most Asians don’t actually like cakes. And the ones that do, are too curried up and ready to drink to be fussed.

The trend to get a loved one to make a cake is as personal as it is affordable. And whatever anyone says, the rasmalai is never going out of fashion!

• The nation’s favourite confectioner Ambala now provide a wedding service @ambalafoods.com

Still hungry?

AFTER PARTY

THE SLICE IS RIGHT: Elegant cakes are the most striking feature of the wedding decor

UPSIDE: The modern bride and groom know they have all the time for two on their honeymoon. Why leave early from this party they’ve gone to so much effort to arrange? The trend-conscious upgrade bride will hire out a private area and even provide transport for the dedicated party animals to keep things in swing.

DOWNSIDE: It can dampen the magic.

All day, your guests will have treated you like an ethereal being. Now, you’re just another person to ramble drunkenly to.

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?fashion retailer Avinash Ruparelia Owner, Laadki

What’s the best way to select an outfit?

Weddings aren’t about being dressed up like a Christmas tree or wearing something that you feel slightly strange and self-conscious in.

We suggest booking an appointment where you can enjoy the ‘bridal experience’ in a relaxed fashion. Maybe go with a friend or family member and keep an open mind and see what’s out there. You’ve shopped enough to know there’s always one more worth going into. But give yourself a list of favourites and a cut-off point, otherwise you’ll be shopping forever!

What are the key services you expect a fashion retailer to offer?

They should make it abundantly clear that they respect the fact that while selling clothes

is an everyday occurrence for them, for you it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Even with readymade pieces, they should be able to offer adjustments and alterations. Which is why I don’t recommend buying outfits from India.

You should be able to go back to the store and have modifications made as often as you need.

your outfit. Also check about the possibility of having a matching outfit made for the groom.

How many outfits should you try on?

The key thing to remember is that the more you see the more confused you will get! Select a store that you’re comfortable with and be open with what you want instead of seeing what the store wants you to see.

Can I still look good if budget was an issue?

You should spend around seven percent of your total budget on your outfit or outfits, and just over two percent of it on the groom’s outfit. Let your retailer know your limit to start with. There’s no point depressing yourself seeing all the things you can’t afford. Good news is – there’s plenty out there that will be well within your reach... www.laadki.com

What do you ask before you buy?

Definitely ask about the possibility of tailoring, seeing as you don’t want to be running around at the last minute looking for someone to adjust

?marquee provider Ian Few

Director, Fews Marquees Few of us have ever hired a marquee before. How do we go about it?

Firstly decide where you would like to locate the marquee so that the company have ground measurements to work with.

It can be useful to make a mood board with different ideas to help the company relate to your vision. Also, arrange to see their work first-hand – sometimes photos can be deceiving.

“Have they considered the behind-the-scenes issues?

Electrics, power, heating and adequate lighting are crucial”

What’s the level of service you’d insist upon?

You should receive a quotation and plan within two days of initial contact. Your provider should aid you from here all the way through the process. The finish of the marquee is really important, a good company will steam all the interior linings and vacuum the carpet before they leave site. I’d also feel comfortable knowing a team member will be present in case any problems arise.

What about any extras?

I think when it comes to outfits, one definite extra is the dupatta, seeing as it really helps to liven up your look in photos.

How many providers should we look at?

It’s sensible to get at least two quotes. When comparing make sure they are like for like – and remember you get what you pay for. It’s not just the cost, but also the level of customer service and peace of mind. Visiting their websites and warehouses is a great way to get an idea of their organisational skills.

Key things you’d check?

Ask about their insurance and what it covers and also their health and safety documents – a reputable company should have all of there up to date and in place. Awards help. Fews Marquees won the national award for The Best Wedding Marquee Provider 2013 in The Wedding Industry Awards, so I know how hard you have to work to get that kind of recognition!

If money was no issue...

I’d go for a marquee with different levels in it.

Plus instead of trailer units, have a plush Alvac toilet system. If money was an issue, I’d forego black starlight over the dance floor area and instead use strings of fairy lights – you can save over £500 that way. fewsmarquees.co.uk

00 | ASIAN BRIDE SPRING 2013

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planning

?caterer

Shikha Sharma Director, Poonams

With so many Asian catering services around, how can you differentiate?

I have narrowed it down to three key factors.

Recommendation – there’s nothing more reassuring than a positive first-hand experience – it will speak volumes about their reliability and quality of service.

Pricing and budget – I’d be keen to establish cost at the outset. I want to know I’m being offered the best possible deal to match my budget, and not get the feeling I’m getting an inferior option because I’m not spending as much as they’d like me to.

Rapport – this is nearly as important as the food itself. You’ll need constant reassurance from the person taking on my wedding.

What key services should they offer?

Supply of cutlery, crockery, glassware, linen, staffing (unless the venue insists on using theirs), event management and, of course, the food!

ASK YOURSELF THIS “Am I picking a caterer because their reputation means they’re bound to impress – or do I want someone no one might’ve heard of but whose food I love ?”

How many catering services do you see?

Enough to understand the general services available and the pricing structure. Then I would narrow it down to approximately four caterers based on how happy I was with the information initially supplied. Too much choice can lead to a harder decision.

What are the main questions you ask before signing on the dotted line?

As with any agreement always read the small print. The most obvious points to discuss are payment terms, cancellation terms and deadlines for final details including the final number of guests to be catered for.

Is it okay to haggle?

Haggling is an ancient art! Like they say, if you don’t ask... However, if a price is negotiated be sure to ask if that will in any way affect the quality of the food or service. A little saving is great, but in the grand scheme of things you are still spending a lot of money and in my opinion spending a bit more to get the promised service is better than saving a relatively small amount and compromising the end product.

Do I have to keep an eagle eye on them?

I recommend going through all final plans with your caterer at least six weeks prior to your event to avoid any miscommunication.

This gives you ample time to review your decisions and make any necessary changes.

Amongst many things you should discuss, be

clear on your itinerary so that service times can be established. Appointing a point of contact from your side is essential so that any changes on the day can be authorised by someone you trust to make decisions on your part.

What extras would you happily pay for?

Small touches like tea and coffee at the end of an event and appetizers at the beginning are always worth the extra spend. These are things that can be enjoyed by all of your guests – plus you’ll be feeling relaxed enough to join them.

If money was no issue, what kind of extravagant things would you like included?

Assuming space also wasn’t an issue, I would opt to have live food counters serving different cuisines throughout the course of the night allowing my guests to choose what they wanted to eat and when. What a way to spoil them!

And if the budget was tight?

I would look to change my service style and then look into the menu options. For example you could remove appetizers from your menu, have your starters served as canapés during the drinks reception and serve the remaining courses from a buffet. This would be significantly less expensive than serving appetizers and having a three course menu served to the table. A good caterer will help you serve your guests in a way that still makes everyone feel well-fed, watered and special. poonams.com

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Marie Antoinette, £POA rosalindmillercakes.com

1

tuck into the sari

The wedding cake is still viewed as a foreign addition in the eyes of many Asian elders – this should appease them, while matching your bridal outfit to perfection.

• From the bespoke collection by Asian Wedding Cakes. 5-tier cake with bridal cloth draping from top to bottom, £850 asianweddingcakes.co.uk

2 viva la revolution Let them eat cake, cried Marie Antoinette, and we’re only too happy to oblige. Especially seeing as the decadence of her era inspires lavish creations featuring sugarpaste swags and pearls, with intricate finishes in edible gold and blush-pink lustre dust. L’eau à la bouche!

Rock Chick Marie Antoinette, £1800 olofsondesign.com

3

red rose cake decorations are still all the rage

e k a C Ex pectation s 15

DELICIOUS IDEAS WE’RE LOVING SINKING OUR TEETH INTO

No traditional Asian wedding is complete without red roses. Luckily, all the best cake designers are as in love with them as we are.

• Hand-painted and hand crafted flowers adorn the Covent Garden wedding cake

by Jane Asher, £945 janeasher.com

•Passionfruit and pomegranate passion wonky cake, £631 cout ure-cakes.co.uk

•Dark chocolate curls floating on a bed of roses, £440 wedding-cakes.co.uk

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inspiration 4 elegant cupcakes Cupcakes that look like they were made for a kid’s party are a no-no.

But that doesn’t mean they can’t be colourful or fun. The art lies in majestic presentation.

• Jubilee themed cupcakes, (left) Peacock bird cage, £POA couture-cakes.co.uk

Neon lights mini iced cake, £5 each cakesweetcake.co.uk Stripes, ribbon & petals, £600 cakesbykrishanthi.co.uk

6

Black & white fairytale, £xxx rosalindmillercakes.com

5

turn up the volume

For the couple who like to make a statement, a centrepiece should do precisely that – scream ‘look at me!’

This is definitely a style where your cake designer needs to be au fait with the décor and outfits – get it wrong and it’s one step away from flash to clash!

tune into the black & white trend

Rainbow cake,£900 rachelles.co.uk

• Few cake companies are as loud and proud as Choccywoccydoodah. All You Need is Love, £2265 choccywoccydoodah.com

7 get ready to croq ue Our French fancy continues to tower with the glorious croquembouche, the high-piled cones of chocolate, cream-filled profiteroles, often covered in granache, and bound together with silky threads of caramel. Incidentally, the world’s biggest croquembouche was made in India.

Isn’t it time an Asian cake maker created one using laddoos?

• Handmade cone-free croquembouche, made on the day of your wedding, £500 dumouchel.co.uk

Penguin croquembouche topper, £25

wedding-cakes.co.uk

SWEET TRUTH Bright colours inspire more photographs – both in albums and in magazines. There’s a good reason why the chocolate fountain went out of fashion!

SPRING 2013 ASIAN BRIDE | 89

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Photography: James Rudland | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Faces by Avina using Bobbi Brown Cosmetics | Styling and Creative Direction: Rachael Elliott | Location: Addington Palace

Kiran’s ab35_fashion - kirans.indd 3

231 Soho Road, Handsworth, Birmingham, B21 9RY 0121 554 9494 • sales@kiranscreations.com www.kiranscreations.com • www.facebook.com/kirans.birmingham

Stockists of Kyles Collection

17/02/2013 18:44

planning

Sense Present

If you don’t ask, you get a toaster. The only logical option is to have a gift list

L

et’s get one thing cleared up. All those guests who you’re worried will be offended that you’ve added a gift list with your invitation are not only out of touch,

but actually rather arrogant. To imagine they can give you something the other two hundred guests won’t think of getting you – especially if everyone is left to guess what you might want – is ridiculous.

Yes, traditionalists may mutter that their

presence should be more important that their presents (after all, you want your guests to give you gifts as a gesture rather than as an admission ticket), but once you put sense over sensitivity, the fact is: you’re forking out an average of £100 per head, you do not want another set of stainless steel forks to add to the frankly useless array of religious clocks, mismatched coasters and, god forbid, toasters.

It makes sense to spell out your wish list.

Give them options and the opportunity to buy according to their budget. You get what you’re after; they feel happy knowing they haven’t lumbered you with an unwanted present. It’s a win-win arrangement. Make a gift list. There’s absolutely no need to apologise.

Once you pick your store, it’s as simple as your guests logging online to pick the item they like the look (and price tag) of. If there are friends who are likely to balk at the prices, the way round it is to have two lists –

“It’s a win-win arrangement – you get what you’re after; your guests feel happy knowing they haven’t lumbered you with an unwanted present”

so if you have a high-end list from, say, Har-

at least they will have a clear idea of the kind

unfurnished home, then you’re in for a joyous

rods, have another from a more affordable

of things you’re after (and what others have

experience, but if you’re one of the many

range, such as Notonthehighstreet.com. And

already got you).

Asian couples who have already set up home,

even if it turns out there’s nothing left on the

All this, however, doesn’t make it any

suddenly even the most desirable gift sets

list that a particular guest can afford, or he or

easier to choose which gift list to pick. If

from John Lewis will leave you worrying

she insists on getting you something personal,

you happen to be moving into a brand new

about storage space.

SPRING 2013 ASIAN BRIDE | 95

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All the

PRETTY

things

SIT BACK AND ENJOY YOUR SPECIAL DAY AND LET PREETI CATERING TAKE CARE OF THE FINER DETAILS

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Art Deco décor @ Grosvenor House, £POA jayandievents.com

Great Gatsby Bouquet, £POA supernovaevents.co.uk Poured Soya Wax Vintage Teacup Candle, from £7 kookiecandles.co.uk

Victorian Royal Exchange cake, from £1500 philippacraddock.com

Diamong Goblet, £7 for small; £55 for large supernovaevents.co.uk

THEME vintage Roar with the 20s Great Gatsby style

Glass Pearls & Swarovski Elements Crystal Hairpin, £190 tiadorojewelry.com

Bird wooden pegs, £4.99 caesarswedding favours.co.uk Gatsby Suite RSVP cards with envelopes, £275 for 100 lucky-luxe.com

Batur Muhammad @baturbaturs

Butterf ly Inspired Pieces, £4.50 thelastdetail.co.uk

Joanie Deco Heel, £995 harrietwilde.com

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inspiration

THEME rustic Inject some woodland spirit into your day

Birdcage with miniature, £800 cakesbykrishanthi.co.uk

Gaurang Shah

Silver birch bark table centre with roses, berries, sedums & alliums, £130 philippacraddock.com Silver Birch Bark Ring, £45 Kelly Limberg@etsy.com

Birch & burlap vases, from £10 Red Lily Shop@etsy.com

Flower Garden clutch, £450 onitaa.co.uk Woven Sassafras with golden feathers, £285 cherylkingcouture.com

Wedding Guest Book Plank, £187 notonthehighstreet.com

Rustic cork & pheasant feather Invitation Suite, £18 cecinewyork.com

Farfalla in ivory, gold & chocolate, £540 arunaseth.com

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E U S S I L L U F E H T D REA

W O N T U O

V

HEADLINE

enues

THE BEST HOTSPOTS TO TIE THE KNOT!

A DATE WITH HISTORY

Be the first in your group to host a wedding at the Natural History Museum

Spring 2013

Sing when you’re winning!

SOAK UP THE LIMELIGHT AT THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE SEE PAGE 128

SEE PAGE 123

Celeb choice

What’s Akshay Kumar’s favourite UK venue?

FIND OUT ON PG 123

•CYRUS BUSINESS Mr Todiwala

Hail the catering superchef

VENUES insisting on inhouse catering has long been a bone of contention among Asian brides.

But with the likes of Marco Pierre White and Cyrus Todiwala OBE now turning their hands to wedding catering, don’t be surprised if you find yourself booking a venue BECAUSE of the in-house chef ! mrtodiwalaskitchen.com

WIN! Food tasting at Laguna Restaurant DETAILS INSIDE

ARE YOU READY FOR THE BIG STEP? Are large How will weddings you make still in your grand fashion? entrance?

by AMI VIYA

MINIMALISM may be the big trend of 2013, but that isn’t stopping Asian brides planning to do what they do best – supersize it!

Our survey found that while many brides are indeed opting for the intimate ceremony, the 400+ grand wedding is still very much in vogue. Where will you host yours?

FIND OUT INSIDE

SPRING 2013 ASIAN BRIDE | 121

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Photography, retouching and creative direction: Kasum Shaffi

0203 632 4303 | info@avaricouture.com | www.avaricouture.com 149 Ealing Road, Wembley, HA0 4BY

18/02/2013 22:07

fashion

Trend

Focus

Rana Noman, LPFW

TRADITIONAL

THE BRIDAL GOW NS WE’RE OBSESSING OVER THIS SEASON

Fahad Hussayn, PBCW

Rabs by Namrah, LPFW

Bhairavi Jaikishan, LFW

What could be more exciting than the hunt for that perfect wedding outfit that will truly make you feel like a princess on your big day? And where better to look than to the catwalks for stimulation and inspiration.

Bold, bright and intricate is certainly the way forward, as showcased by the likes of Rani Emaan and Bhairavi Jaikishan at Pantene Bridal Couture Week.

Embellished is the key word in each of the outfits shown, but what kind of embellished ensemble do you want to go for? Dusky pink gowns, adorned with gold embroidery and topped with a statement headpiece as seen

by Rana Noman were the highlight at London Pakistan Fashion Week whereas a bright pink and gold sari creation looked truly fabulous by Bhairavi Jaikishan at Lakme Fashion Week.

Rana Noman, LPFW

Rani Emaan, PBCW

Rabs by Namrah, LPFW

Zainab Chottani, LPFW

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LIVING feature

DOLLS Break the mould AND BRING YOUR VIsions TO LIFE with bibi london bridalwear Photographs Paul West Styling Marni Kaur

Left: Red lengha with gold embroidery Right: Red shalwar kameez with gold paisley embroidery Both by Payal Singhal

000| ASIAN BRIDE AUTUMN 2012

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inspiration

Fashion shoot BIBI AB35.indd 20

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feature

000| ASIAN BRIDE AUTUMN 2012

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fashion Opposite page: Maroon lengha with yellow duppatta by Shyamal and Bhumika This page: Orange lengha with lace overlay by Hare

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0121 551 1771 / 07800 527 750 ahsans@live.co.uk

ab35_fashion - ahsans.indd 1

Photography: James Rudland | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Faces by Avina using Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Styling and Creative Direction: Rachael Elliott | Location: Addington Palace

275 Soho Road Handsworth, Birmingham, B21 9SA

17/02/2013 18:51

g

room

groom

MAKING YOUR MOST ESSENTIAL ACCESSORY LOOK THE PART!

Regal spender The average cost of a wedding has gone up, but not necessarily because vendors have hiked up their prices. Studies reveal the main reason we’re spending more on our big day is because the modern groom has taken on a more vested role in the proceedings – and is more than happy to stump up for it.

As well as splashing out on accessories extravagant enough to match his better half, the big expenditures include the groom cake (a smaller additional cake that reflects his hobbies and interests), salon treatments (teeth whitening is big this year), paying for dance lessons, with some grooms-to-be bypassing the gym membership to opt for liposuction. But the biggest expenses go towards hiring the perfect entertainment, the dream honeymoon and forking out for both a bespoke sherwani and a tailored suit to make sure he looks like the king of both worlds...

• Outfit by Shyamal & Bhumika @ bibilondon.com

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Photography: James Rudland | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Makeup: Faces by Avina using Bobbi Brown Cosmetics |Styling and Creative Direction: Rachael Elliott | Location: Addington Palace

“Bespoke Sherwanis and Kurtas” www.geetaarts.com 271 Green Street, London E7 8LJ

17/02/2013 18:45

groom THE

GROOMZILL GROOMZILLA FILES

AFTER EDITING BRIDAL MAGS FOR OVER A DOZEN YEARS, SHIHAB SALIM REALLY SHOULD KNOW BETTER…

Lesson 1 # It’s not about me

“P

hoto booths are so last year. Anyone who thinks pulling poses with props is funny wouldn’t know funny if it hit them with a fake, silly moustache.

The sophisticated alternative this year is the mini flipbook,” I say, offering up my broadest, most knowing smile, awaiting a reaction mixed with admiration and gratitude.

“As for vintage, this year that doesn’t mean retro,” I add to give her time to prepare the right words to show her appreciation for my dazzling on-trend know-how, “it just means outdated!”

She bursts into tears.

“Are you crying because you’re happy?” I wonder aloud, although I’m quite sure happy tears wouldn’t normally involve the tearing up of a piece of paper once lovingly headlined ‘Our Wedding’.

“You hate all my ideas,” she wails. The piece of paper now lying between us looking as crumpled and small as the bride-to-be.

I decide against elucidating on the wrongs of having At Last by Etta James as her first dance choice.

I don’t get it. People buy the magazines I’ve worked for to get insight into what’s all the rage and what’s not, and here I am, offering invaluable hot-off-the-press industry info free of charge, and this is the thanks I get? And then I remember. I’m an idiot.

A wedding has never been about the man.

When we were little boys (in some cases, still are), we dreamed of battling monsters in space rather than fantasising about how we’d look in chiffon and lace. For years I’ve been interviewing newlyweds to receive a thesis stretching several volumes about their Big Day from the bride, while the contribution from her lesser half amounted to little more than a sad, defeated nod while muttering, “it all cost so very, very much”.

I apologise. I vow to cast aside all my years of experience, I shall no longer pretend I

know anything about weddings, for you my dear, I am not an editor, but a mere accessory, only there by your side to help you shine.

“Don’t do that!” she shrieks. “You need to use your contacts to help us get discounts.”

Oh. Now I can blag anything. I’ve stayed in more five-star resorts than any non-millionaire can ever dream of, dined for free at top restaurants, got red carpet access to the best parties in town, and been pampered at the world’s finest spas, all because of my magazine connections, but this… this feels wrong.

It’s easy to tell a PR that I’ll accept an all-expenses paid trip to the Bahamas in exchange for writing a four-page editorial in a respected wedding publication, but to try to blag a cake so I can eat it? That seems incredibly cheap. Not to mention tacky. And embarrassing.

I won’t do it.

I have to word this very carefully, especially given that the tears shed from the last few words to come out of my mouth are still fresh around her eyes.

Weddings aren’t about freebies. As the undearly departed boxed gift trend of yesteryear stands testament to – no one other than a loved one gives you anything for free that you actually want. And even if my most loyal contacts were to let me have something for nothing, to expect them to tailor-make it to match the theme is insane. This is our day; we should do it our way.

I add a wink that leaves no doubt that when I say ‘our’ what I actually mean is ‘your’.

She sheds another tear, but this time I know it’s a happy one. I’ve just masked what is in fact cowardice at having to ask valued contacts for hand-outs as a display of chivalry and romance.

I reassure her. Whatever she wants. I’m all for it. I encourage her to make a new list of ideas. I use my magazine expertise to lay it out in InDesign to make it look prettier than its crumpled predecessor. We move onto the budget. I use my magazine expertise to lay it out on an Excel spreadsheet. I quietly have a heart attack.

NO NONSENSE: These photo booth props may look silly to you, but they’re a deathly serious matter for my bride-to-be.

The next day, after a ruthless re-editing of my conscience following a close encounter with my bank balance, I call a wedding cake maker I’ve dealt with for many years, enquiring what sort of cake he might throw my way for free.

He tells me he’s been commissioned to make a number of Taj Mahal cakes for a corporation around the time of my wedding and it probably won’t be too much bother knocking one up for me.

Later that day, I casually ask my intended: “So what do you say to a Taj Mahal cake?”

She gives me that look normally reserved for when gazing upon the insane.

“It’s quite vintage, don’t you think? I mean it’ll look great next to the photo booth.”

There are question marks in her eyes. I’m guessing the most pertinent question being “why am I marrying this man?”

“Only joking!” I laugh nervously, fooling no one into thinking I am indeed joking, and shuffle away whistling At Last by Etta James.

Next time anyone asks me anything to do with our wedding, expect me to react with a sad, defeated nod while muttering, “it all cost so very, very much.”

While pulling poses behind a fake, silly moustache…

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NINA UBHI CELEBRITY MAKE UP ARTIST Beauty Editor & Official Hair & Make Up Artist of ASIAN BRIDE MAGAZINE BRIDAL | FASHION | MEDIA By appointment only Professional training available at THE ASIAN WOMAN ACADEMY www.ninaubhi.com info@ninaubhi.com www.theasianwomanacademy.com beauty@asianwomanmag.com +44 7704 536847

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18/02/2013 17:03

E U S S I L L U F E H T D REA

W O N T U O

Beauty Photography: James Rudland | Retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Hair & Makeup: Nina Ubhi Location: Ealing Town Hall | Outfit: Omega | Jewellery: Jazzy Bindi

news, trends, tips & Must-haves by nina ubhi

FIRST BASE Find the right foundation: For normal skin, go for a moisturising foundation, but avoid the shiny T-zone problem by giving oily products a miss. If you have greasy skin, go for an oil-free foundation with longlasting coverage so your skin doesn’t soak up the make up. Those with dry skin should go for creamy formulas – look for soothing ingredients. And don’t forget your daily moisturising routine!

Apply foundation properly: If you’re using a thick foundation, apply with your fingers to really get into the skin. For the liquid variety, invest in a good foundation brush – spread outwards towards the edge of the face. Remember to blot or you’ll have a cake on your hands!

Get the f lawless finish: Always moisturise before you apply your base. Golden rule: prep and prime!

Set with powder and it’s ready, steady, flawless…

SPRING 2013 ASIAN BRIDE | 175

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Here comes the

BOTOX

Bride

ONE INJECTION AND YOU LOOK LIKE AN AIRBRUSHED MODEL IN A MAGAZINE. CAN BOTOX REALLY BE THE ANSWER? NiNa UBhi PUTS IT TO THE TEST

M

ake up artist? Check. Wedding gown? Check.

Groom? Check. Botox appointment? Why the heck not? Botox brides are on the increase (heard about the botox hen party trend?) and even the scare rags that used to scream about its side-effects have quietened down of late.

Now, it’s touted as a luxury reserved for the fabulous and it’s easy to see why.

A good make up artist can do wonders, yes.

But if the canvas is already smooth before she goes to work on it – you don’t need to be an art connoisseur to know the results will turn out better. Plus it’s undeniable that the modern woman loves a quick fix. Doubly so when it promises to be painless. Read ‘lose two stones in two weeks and still eat what you want’, or ‘give up smoking in six easy steps’, and we’re sold. And when someone comes along and says they can zap away those wrinkles around the

00 | ASIAN BRIDE SPRING 2013

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beauty muscles that are paralysed by Botox become weakened, so are less able to act. Subsequently, the lines produced by these muscular actions eye in a matter of a few blinks, let’s face it –

become less obvious. A topical anaesthetic

follow would be virtually painless and that it

we’re intrigued.

cream is used on the targeted area pre-

would be over before I knew it. I made myself

treatment which makes the procedure virtually

comfortable and waited for the treatment to

brides-to-be coming to me and casually

pain free, although mild bruising may occur in

begin. She disinfected the area around the eyes

admitting they’d turned to Botox and Fillers

some patients.

and explained that she was about to start. All

As a bridal make up artist, the number of

was too large for me to ignore. After all, I make

I felt was the tiniest prick three times around

my living keeping an eye on trends, an eye, I

MY BOTOX DIARY

should admit, that has been looking back at me

I decided to treat myself to Botox around

treatment was performed and how painless

of late with creases that look suspiciously like

the eyes. I’ve always believed in looking as

it was. I was told I would see the full effect of

they were left there by crows...

immaculately presented as possible, so I’m all

Botox within two to three days and the results

for non-invasive surgery, to a certain degree. I

could last up to six months. I had no reaction to

nowned anti-ageing and hormone specialist, Dr

didn’t think I was in desperate need of the jab,

the Botox and made my way back to the Asian

Daniel Sister of beautyworkswest.com assures

but reducing a few baby lines couldn’t hurt. In

Bride office wondering if the team would notice

me: “Age is not really of importance (as long as

fact, it better not hurt!

any difference this early on, which they didn’t.

But surely I’m not old enough? World re-

they are not underage!) but it is more a

I booked myself into the Harley Medical

each eye. I could not believe how swiftly the

Two days later I finally noticed the vast

question of ‘when’ the lines and wrinkles

Group for a consultation and started to get

improvement in the smoothness around my

become obvious and, in certain, cases

cold feet the moment I walked into their plush

eyes – when I smiled there were no visible

permanent. Again, how often also depends on the patient’s metabolism, as some will fight the Botox sooner than others, but it should never be more than three to four times a year.”

The more I researched, the more I found out this trend has now become quite the norm among all ages. One of my brides, Priya from Brighton, told me: “I went to my friend’s Botox Bridal Shower and only decided I’d give

“People who commented on how much better I looked naturally assumed it was down to my make up. Which is a perfect result for any girl who has just walked out of Harley Street”

it a shot when I realised her mum and much

clinic. My concerns: “Will it hurt?”, “What

crease marks or lines. I loved the results and

younger sister were keen to try it out. It’s

if the results are disastrous?”, and “Should I

people generally noticed I looked different but

actually a great day out. You get in a limo, go

leave now before it’s too late?” It was too late.

better yet they couldn’t figure out what it was.

to a salon where you get pampered all day and

I was sitting in a white room for my consulta-

People who commented on how I looked

everybody comes out looking like they’ve just

tion opposite the nurse in her big white leather

assumed it was down to my make up. Which is

stepped out of a magazine shoot.”

chair. “This consultation is for me to assess

a perfect result for any girl who’s just walked

if this is the right treatment for you,” she

out of Harley Street. The only way I can

explains. A part of me hoped she would simply

explain how the results wear off is that I woke

Botox is the abbreviated term for Botulinum

say: “You’re beautiful as you are. Now get out

up one morning and I looked exactly like I did

Toxin A, a purified protein injectable used to

of here.” But instead she said: “Your forehead

three months ago pre-treatment.

treat lines between the eyebrows, on the

could do with a treatment.”

So what is Botox?

forehead and around the sides of the eyes.

Great. That’s the one place I didn’t think

But then I live and breathe make up. And that’s designed to make us look good for a day.

Botox reduces the cause of facial lines, the

I had a problem. So we decided I would get

Waking up every morning for three months

contractions of the underlying facial muscles

Botox on my forehead, or so I thought. Ten

feeling like you’ve already had a perfect base

by blocking the signal from the brain to the

minutes later I was seated in an even bigger

applied doesn’t sound so bad. Especially for a

muscle. The effect can last between three and

white room waiting for my doctor to perform

bride who wants to look the part for her

eight months. However, Botox treatments can

the treatment. An expert in putting people at

wedding day and honeymoon.

be cumulative. Treating dynamic lines with a

ease (I had no reason to doubt her when she

series of Botox injections over time may help

revealed she was an avid reader of my articles),

have it done again? Already booked.

retrain the muscles used in facial expression,

I was still surprised to find she agreed with me

• For more information, or to book a

therefore the result can be both corrective

when I told her I sort of liked my forehead how

consultation, log onto harleymedical.co.uk

and preventative. To put it simply, the inactive

it was. “It’s your eyes that could do with some

For Botox Parties, visit lifestyleclinic.co.uk

Would I recommend Botox? Yes. Would I

work,” she smiled sweetly, zapping away my fresh forehead complex, and I was sold.

She assured me the treatment that was to

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COLOUR

Trend

Make Up Artist AArti P shows us how to theme your bridal make up

VIOLET Purple is the new red, which means that fashion pundits all over the world have touted it as the most on trend colour for 2013. Moreover, purple is believed to be the colour of royalty and elegance - a colour formed by mixing red with dark blue. Thus, if you choose purple, you would technically still be wearing red on your wedding day. If you are still in doubt, try mixing hues of red in your purple wedding dress. This will help to convince your traditional family and friends that you are indeed wearing the colour red on your wedding day while allowing you your purple indulgence sans guilt. Not forgetting the complete look with a hint of gold to your make up!

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beauty CORAL Coral shades always look stunning in an Indian wedding. The colour naturally lends itself to bring joy and casts a beautiful glow on the bride.

Sweet and romantic, coral is the sort of colour that comes along with the right amount of elegance, but it’s also carefree and fun! A very versatile colour for brides and bridesmaids.

It’s beautiful on all skin tones too.

My favourite combination is to have gold embroidery on your coral outfit and then flattering the outfit with make up colours from a similar palette to give a fresh and youthful look, perfect for Spring and Summer

Photography & retouching: Kasum Shaffi | Creative Direction: Nina Ubhi | Outfits: Laadki

weddings!

Aarti P Professional Hair & Makeup Artist t: 07545 539 519 e: info@aarti-p.com w: www.aarti-p.com f: facebook.com/aartipmua

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Royal

Academy

Celebrity Make Up Artist NINA UBHI of The Asian Woman Academy showcases the latest Bridal trends

Jewel tones Jewel colours are not only on trend, but they always add a regal spin to a modern look. A flawless finish is imperative, and defining the face with perfect brows keeps the make up looking proportionate. The intensity of a colourful smokey eye can be further brought to life with a pop of colour underneath the eye. Be sure to choose colours that complement each other to ensure they blend together well. A light pink lip keeps the features soft at the same time as not drowning out that all-important glow.

Dramatic eyes

Gatsby glam

Adding a golden shimmer to the inner corners of the eyes and blending it into the darker, more intense shades can not only ensure your make up is blended to perfection but also keeps the look glamorous and feminine. A glossy nude lip balances out the intensity and keeps the look youthful. Flutter a pair of dramatic lashes and you’ve perfected the intense smokey eye that still keeps your features soft enough to look sultry yet coy.

Feather clip-ins are always a great way to add a bit of 1920’s glamour to your look. When opting for such a dramatic accessory, keeping hair up and out of the face adds to the allure but also keeps the focus on your standout features – particularly when going for a dramatic eye. The look is kept feminine with a dab of golden shimmer in the inner corners of the eyes, and a soft peachy blush for a beautiful flush of colour.

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beauty course you can Nina Ubhi offers intense training for aspiring hair & make up artists by guiding and mentoring them throughout and after training to transform them into renowned artists. One of the bridal industry’s leading make up artists and Beauty Editor of Asian Bride Magazine, Nina understands the needs of both the consumer and the provider, meaning her expertise on what’s wanted and what sells is unparalleled.

The Asian Woman Academy has a variety of intense courses and short masterclasses created exclusively by Nina Ubhi to cater to every woman on every level. Which course is right for you?

INTeNse mAKe UP ARTIsTRy AND HAIR DesIGN IN BRIDAL & FAsHIoN DURATIoN: Five days WHo Is IT FoR? The artist aspiring for a professional career as a leading hair & make up artist.

Brow girl For the adventurous bride, a bright red lip with defined eyebrows is sure to make you stand out. Set yourself apart by keeping eyes incredibly light but defining the face with flawless, prominent brows that can be taught on our five day course – one of my signature techniques. The bright red lip keeps the look timeless and will complement your white dress as well as brighten the skin. Timeless, dramatic and deserved of admirers’ full attention.

HAIR sTyLING mAsTeRcLAss DURATIoN: One day WHo Is IT FoR? For professionals wishing to refresh or upgrade their hair skills learning so many techniques and styles.

A fun yet very intense day! sHAPe’N’sHADe eyeBRoW mAsTeRcLAss DURATIoN: Two hours WHo Is IT FoR? For the Eyebrow junkie!

Learn to shape and shade eyebrows from the master artist of eyebrows.

“Nothing makes a more dramatic change to a look than a skillful stroke of red” Take it as red A red lip still ranks high as the most graceful and glamorous way to look like you’re ready for both the red carpet and the wedding aisle. One skillfully applied stroke and it can change the way you look completely. Adding a subtle bronze underneath the cheekbones contours the face to give you that perfect flawless finish, so that you can wow your guests from all angles. The right amount of blending can be what moves you from looking completely made up to having a naturally beautiful bone structure, the trick is to simply enhance your features and create a flawless finish.

BoLLyWooD IcoNs DURATIoN: Four hours WHo Is IT FoR? For the Bollywood diva!

Katrina Kaif, Priyanka Chopra, Aishwariya Rai Bachan are just a few of the Bollywood beauties that inspire this masterclass.

TImeLess BeAUTy DURATIoN: Three hours WHo Is IT FoR? Especially designed to help embrace your maturing beauty this is perfect for the older sophisticated lady.

DAy To NIGHT DURATIoN: Three hours WHo Is IT FoR? Hit the town straight from work with this class!

• For further info, log onto theasianwomanacademy.com

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congratulations

Congratulations YOUR MAGICAL DAY. OUR PLEASURE

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Destination

WE GIVE YOU THE WORLD

PRIVATE MATTERS To honeymoon on your own private island is the stuff of fantasies, but thanks to the lovely folk at the hip and cheerful Black Tomato bespoke travel site, that dream is no longer out of reach for mere mortals.

Take the island of Kura Kura, please. It’s yours.

Located on in the unspoilt Karimunjawa archipelago, in between Java and Borneo, Kura Kura is in the heart of this tropical paradise – with postcard perfect views in every direction you look. Explore historic wrecks on a deep sea dive, paddle out into the lagoon on a kayak, feast on the finest sea food on earth and finish off your day with a romantic sunset cruise. And never have to worry about leaving a towel to secure your lounger…

• For the best tailor-made honeymoon rates, contact the team at blacktomato.com

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f o t r a e h T

M AGIC

Capturing perfect moments doesn’t happen by chance. Our top photographers reveal how it’s done

Melgiovanni Photography Philosophy: Photography is the art of storytelling...

Famed for his unique, innovative and contemporary photography style, Dan Melgiovanni has that natural ability to make people completely at ease when they are in front of the camera.

He reveals: “I specialise in capturing the moment with a candid, nonintrusive and natural approach to wedding photography. My motto is:

‘You do your wedding and I capture it’.

The result is a wedding album that will be exclusive and as individual as you.”

He adds: “I like to take a mixture of formal style wedding portraits and the more natural and artistic shots that add an emotional dimension to your day.”

Internationally acclaimed, his work has featured in numerous publications.

He admits: “My wide-ranging portfolio shows my natural ability and versatility.

I treat each wedding individually with imagination and pure creativity.”

t: 07711 502 454 e: dan@melgiovanni.com w: melgiovanni.com

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planning

Gurvir Johal Photography

Philosophy: True love and great photography are united by the same thing – passion...

t: +44 7782 384 368 e: info@gurvirjohal.com w: gurvirjohal.com

Based in the Midlands, Gurvir Johal came from a background of graphic design and art – he loves producing art and images that stir emotions and thought.

He admits: “I adore the reaction people give when beholding my artwork. Why should photography be any different?”

Gurvir’s passion and love for photography allows him to use his heart and imagination to produce powerful, lasting images. He believes his presence should be unobtrusive, so the subjects of the images are left unaware of the presence of a camera. “That is when magical moments happen,” he says.

Describing his style as fairytale meets contemporary fashion, he reveals: “To capture the true essence of a love story, you need to be a romantic yourself!”

Upendo Images

Philosophy: Photography can’t simply be your living – it needs to be your way of life...

“Preserving all the wonderful moments, milestones and memories of a couple’s most important day is what I do best. I love all the laughter, the tears, the romance, the dancing, the drama, the fashion and the food that comes with weddings”, says Bhavna PandyaBarratt.

Using a combination of documentary style and more traditional based photography, Bhavna’s unobtrusive yet candid approach means she captures all the little moments that could sometimes be missed.

“My vision is to provide a high-end photography

product that couples will treasure. Photography is all in the eye – you need to be able to spot a moment almost before it even happens!”

If you’re looking for a photographer with personality, who will join in with the balle balle, the giddha and the garba, who will probably shed a tear when you walk down the aisle, who loves masala chai, gulab t: 07873 877 824 e: info@upendoimages.com jamuns and all things w: upendoimages.com Bollywood... let Bhavna document your big day.

Upendo Images are available for pre-wedding shoots, engagements or weddings of all faiths, anywhere in the world.

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Photography: Jay Pankhania | Hair & Makeup: Faces by Avina using MAC Cosmetics Styling and Creative Direction: Shiv Sanghani | Outfits: Variety Silk House

47 High Street Edgware, Middlesex HA8 7DD

T: 020 8951 4441 F: 020 8952 9994 info@theviplounge.com

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