Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations
SPECIAL REPORT | JANUARY 29, 2019
host a wedding reception on a budget
Bana Shomal
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Be it catering services or invitation cards, you’ll be spoilt for choice when you begin exploring all the options out there
very couple looks for unique ways to make their wedding stand out from the others. However, it has become more challenging than ever before to organise a perfect wedding in Dubai. The extravagance of your Dubai event often depends on your budget, especially if you pick a five-star hotel venue. You can easily host a wedding reception for under Dh100,000, but you won’t have much room to customise it. However, you can still do a lot by picking budget-friendly options.
Be it catering services or invitation cards, you’ll be spoilt for choice when you begin exploring all the options out there. If you’re facing indecision and are looking for the secret formula to host a memorable wedding reception on a budget, then be sure to follow this guide: Venue is key Most people choose to get married in hotel halls here, but you’d be surprised to see how many other options are available in Dubai. If the weather permits it, pick an outdoor location like a beach or desert. Not only will it be a pleasant change for your
A TOUCH OF LOVE CELEBRATE YOUR BIG DAY IN THE MOST SPECIAL WAY
Al Raha Beach Hotel is the perfect place for your perfect wedding moment. With complete choice of indoor and outdoor venues, offering endless themes and beautiful décor, tailor made services, and a dedicated team to take care of your every need. All you have to do is sit back and relax while we take care of your dream wedding. HOST A RECEPTION STARTING FROM 150 AED NET PER GUEST
For more information, please call +971 2 508 0425 or email cb.alraha@danathotels.com *Terms & conditions apply.
Managed by Danat Hotels & Resorts danathotels.com
guests who’re probably tired of attending weddings at the same old venues, but an outdoor location will also make your photos more impressive. There are many beach-side hotels or hotels hidden away in the desert that would be happy to host your event. If you have a smaller wedding guest list, you could even set up a wedding tent in your garden to save yourself a lot of money. Scrumptious food doesn’t have to be insanely expensive There are plenty of catering ideas for people with a tight budget to choose from. Arabic, BBQ and Indian/
Pakistani are currently the most popular types of food in the UAE. From exotic drinks to traditional desserts, you might be able to include a lot on the menu even if you have a tight budget. If the hotel venue allows it, you could save a lot of money by hiring an external catering company in Dubai to explore budgetfriendly ideas for your event. Did you know that basic catering services can be booked for as low as D80 per head? You can also save thousands of dirhams by comparing services and quotations from multiple Continued on page 5
Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations
Opt for the best Celebrate your special day in an extra special way with a destination wedding with Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts
Jumeirah Beach Hotel Designed like a striking wave, the hotel is one of Dubai’s most recognised structures. The 618 rooms, suites and villas offer enough space to accommodate your guests in the lap of luxury. With its manicured gardens, panoramic terraces and pristine beachfront with awe-inspiring views of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, an outdoor celebration is the best option here. Host your functions at their venues like the Sunset Garden, Sundeck Level 2, and Events Arena for maximum impact. For more information, please e-mail: JBH.Wedding@jumeirah.com or call: +971 55 130 9875
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah The distinctive sail-shaped façade of the hotel has made it a city icon. It is also the flagship property of Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. The duplex suites-only hotel is the last word in superlative luxury; a sentiment that is bound to spill into your wedding celebrations here. There are plenty of indoor and outdoor venues to choose from such as the Al Falak Ballroom, Marina Garden, and Palm Garden. For more information, please e-mail: BAAEvents@jumeirah.com or call: +971 4 301 7188 Jumeirah Emirates Towers This arresting hotel with 400 rooms and suites is a striking component of the Dubai skyline, and its impact won’t be lost on your guests. The 13 dining and nightlife venues ensure a packed itinerary. Host your wedding party at their Godolphin ballroom with the city lights serving as a fitting backdrop. For more information, please e-mail: JETWeddings@jumeirah.com or call: +971 4 319 8648
Madinat Jumeirah A reimagination of ancient Arabia, this recently renovated beach hotel is perfect for your modern-day Arabian Nights moment. It is made up of three sprawling hotels interconnected by waterways and landscaped gardens — Jumeirah Al Qasr, Jumeirah Mina A’Salam and Jumeirah Al Naseem. Lavishness will greet your guests at every corner. Apart from the two grand ballrooms, a 1,000-seat amphitheatre and the region’s only dedicated multi-purpose venue, Madinat Arena, makes this the ideal choice for your wedding. For more information, please e-mail: mjweddings@jumeirah.com or call: +971 4 366 5354
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KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | JANUARY 29, 2019
Jumeirah Creekside Hotel The quick five-minute drive from Dubai International Airport makes it a highly practical choice. Add to that its location overlooking the Dubai Creek and the 292 spacious rooms and suites, and you have a winner. The lush Secret Garden is tailor-made for your outdoor functions while the ballroom (for up to 500 guests) is an elegant choice for the sangeet or reception. For more information, please e-mail: JCHwedding@jumeirah.com or call: +971 4 230 8517 www.khaleejtimes.com
THE BEAUTY IS IN THE DETAIL
We paint the perfect occasion with a backdrop of enticing venues at exceptional locations. Celebrate your wedding with Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts in Dubai and immerse yourself in a day full of color, charm and warmth.
jumeirah.com/weddings #jumeirahwedding
Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations
Escape to a land of luxury Create memories of a lifetime in Seychelles and Maldives
Pool deck, Villa Flanbwayan JA Enchanted Island Resort, Seychelles: Imagine the intimate and exclusive wedding of your dreams in a luxury tropical hideaway, situated within a designated National Marine Park. JA Enchanted Island Resort has been named the Seychelles’ Leading Resort 2018 by World Travel Awards for two consecutive years, with 10 stunning villas showcasing the unique charm of Creole architecture in harmony with an enchanting landscape. Each villa has direct access to the pristine beach, private pool on the
secluded deck, sun-loungers and a private garden. A dedicated coordinator will assist couples’ plan and personalise their dream day including decorations, flowers, cake and bridal make-up. The awe-inspiring location of the ceremony is reachable by boat, 15 minutes from the main island with videographers and photographers available to capture each special moment. After the wedding, newlyweds can enjoy the beginning of their marriage with gourmet Creole cuisine available at Bounty
Restaurant, exotic sundown cocktails at Castaway Bar and a relaxing couple’s treatment at the Serena Spa, set upon the hilltop of the island in complete privacy. Honeymooners can treat themselves to once-in-alifetime luxury with villas situated in prime locations on the island with idyllic views, expansive living space and serene privacy. A personal butler service is provided to help arrange spa treatments, excursions or romantic refreshments during the stay.
JA Manafaru, Maldives: JA Manafaru is a luxury beach resort on a 35-acre tropical island, situated on the northern tip of the Haa Alif atoll in the Maldives. Couples can choose to celebrate their love on the idyllic white sands of the resort with a traditional Maldivian ceremony or choose the romantic secluded island of Govafushi, a 10-minute yacht journey to a ‘castaway ceremony’ with friends and family. Named the Indian Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort 2018 by World Travel Awards, the resort has 84 villas and suites with private pools for the wedding party to choose from, including Beach Bungalows, Water Villas and the larger Royal Island family suites. For the bride and groom, the Grand Water two-bedroom suite villa is set over the ocean with panoramic sunrise and
Sunrise Water Villa with Infinity pool sunset vistas. The unique Castaway Wedding package includes a band of Maldivian Bodu Beru players, a private sunset cruise on a traditional dhoni sailboat and a romantic four-course candlelight dinner on the beach. The resort also offers two on-site photography studios, each offering couples a different style. For the honeymoon couple,
share memories of the special day in seven world-class restaurants, traditional Maldivian dishes at Kakuni, fresh local seafood prepared at Ocean Grill or authentic Chinese hot pot at the award-winning White Orchid. For the ultimate luxury, dip into a special cave to experience haute cuisine and fine beverages two and a half metres below sea level in a candlelit, underground haven.
Everyone has a story. Yours begins here!
Just Amore Weddings by Anna K.
Hilton Garden Inn Ras Al Khaimah is here to help you prepare the perfect proposal and celebration
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rom the moment the question is asked, to the first dance as a married couple, you can rely on Hilton Garden Inn Ras Al Khaimah to be by your side to help you along the way. Special moments like these call for grand gestures and we will provide you with a dedicated wedding specialist to customdesign the experience with you, ensuring that it will be the best day of your life.
When it comes to throwing your dream wedding in Italy, Just Amore Weddings by Anna K. is your right partner. From the land of Love, Just Amore will bring you a magical experience filled with love. From small intimate gatherings to lavish and big weddings, Anna K. and her team are passionate to deliver exceptional events and ensure that new trends are set. Over the years, Just Amore built an international reputation for bespoke weddings in Italy.. Born and raised between Lebanon and Italy, owner and founder Anna K. Frem was always eager to create memorable weddings. She established her company which specializes in full-service wedding planning in Italy a few years back. Speaking four languages, she accommodates different cultures and languages in the process. But her signature style is blending globally-inspired wedding details with the charm and comfort of her candid personality.
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Just Amore Weddings by Anna K. plans stylish and authentic wedding celebrations that are unique for each couple requesting their destination wedding in Italy. Her discerning eye makes her the go-to expert in the wedding industry and an international wedding planner of choice for couples seeking an outstanding wedding experience. Anna K. sits with each couple to understand their vision and to create a memorable, magical event that exceeds expectations. With her personal approach and her expansive network of vendors and suppliers, she truly reflects her clients as individuals, as couples, and shares their values and vision. She thinks ahead of the trend and innovates to create an original and refreshing wedding.
For engagement and wedding celebrations, we have special packages that include the following benefits:
tablecloths engineered down to the last dessert spoon, or capturing the right photo, she is precise and patient with every detail. Over the years, the wedding industry saw many couples turn to Just Amore for their hospitality, contemporary aesthetic, and impeccably executed weddings. Just Amore built an international reputation for bespoke weddings in Italy. Whether you dream of an extravagant wedding ceremony at an exclusive seaside resort or a more intimate celebration at a hidden Italian mountain retreat, Just Amore Weddings by Anna K. will make your dream a true reality and will create memories to be treasured for a lifetime.
When it comes to throwing your dream wedding in Italy, Just Amore plans every step of the planning process. Anna K. follows each detail herself, whether tracking RSVPs, or meticulously styled
If you want to know more about planning your perfect wedding in Italy, Contact Just Amore info@justamore.net | www.justamore.net KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | JANUARY 29, 2019
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Dedicated wedding coordinator to create a tailored wedding plan with access to preferred suppliers, including photographers, florists, and event companies for staging, lighting and unique furniture. A wedding host for the day. Personalised and themed wedding menus. Preferential accommodation rates for wedding guests. Complimentary room for bride and groom on the wedding night. Bride’s and Groom’s changing rooms. Complimentary three kilogrammes of vanilla or chocolate wedding cake with creamy frostings (depends on the selected menu) Complimentary one-night stay on the evening of your first-year anniversary Complimentary parking for guests
Wedding package rates at Hilton Garden Inn Ras Al Khaimah start as low as Dh115 per person, depending on the selected menu.* * Subject to availability. For more information,
contact us on +971 7 228 8888 or e-mail: events.hgi.rak@hilton.com www.khaleejtimes.com
Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations
Enjoy privacy at this serene getaway Say “I Do” in the dreamy backdrop of DoubleTree By Hilton Resort and Spa Marjan Island
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oubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island is home to an array of facilities and services to make sure your wedding is nothing less than perfect! Let our experienced team take care of the finest details to ensure that everything is just right for this special moment in your life. All our
wedding packages come with a range of offerings that keep your worries at bay and safe guard the most important day of your life. Whether you wish for an intimate wedding by the Arabian Gulf or a lavish affair with all your family and friends, doubletree Marjan Island has a selection of venues to suit your every need. Enjoy soft sands of the 650-metre-long white sandy beach, limitless event space or lush and green day functions palm garden, pool decks and secluded, private restaurant terraces with panoramic views to the Arabian Sea.
How to host a wedding reception on a budget From page 1 catering companies. Choose a unique theme Themed weddings have become very common in the UAE. It’s one of the easiest ways to make sure that your wedding reception stands out from all the others. You should consider tailoring multiple elements of your wedding according to the theme you’ve selected. For example, if it’s an Arabian theme, you can ask guests to wear traditional clothes, hang lanterns in the venue and play Arabian tunes. Consider non-traditional photography ideas You can preserve and even improve your special moments by using out-of-thebox photography and videography ideas. Give
traditional photos a break and make arrangements for a funky photoshoot, which is all the rage these days. To make your wedding video stand out, you can ask your videographer to create it like a documentary, and include interviews of the bride and groom as well as their friends and family. If you’re worried that these ideas might exceed your wedding budget, then you should compare quotes before finalising a photography service. Do something unexpected Surprise your guests by presenting them with something they weren’t expecting. There are many ways to do so. Since the first impression is often the last impression, you should begin by sending out nontraditional invitation cards.
For example, you can pick pop-up cards, get the invitations printed on a keepsake plate, or personalise the text for your close relatives and friends. You should also consider arranging a live musical performance or ask your friends to prepare some dances to entertain the guests. Another great way to ensure that your guests remember your wedding for a long time is to hand out wedding favours like key chains, pens or scented candles. Make sure your names and wedding dates are embossed on them. Money saving tip As a newly married couple, you might need some extra cash to begin your journey together, especially after spending so much on your wedding. You can replenish your bank account by asking guests to give cash instead of boxed gifts. Just write ‘No boxed gifts’ at the bottom of your invitation cards to do so. The writer is the founder of ServiceMarket.com. Views expressed are her own and do not reflect the newspaper’s policies.
www.khaleejtimes.com
Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations
A one stop shop for wedding planning L Farhana Chowdhury
aila Nabeel Abdulla Kamber is a graduate from Oxford Brookes University, UK and has an honours master’s degree in marketing and tourism management. She is also the founder of Brides To Be Flowers and Events. Over five years ago, she was a blushing bride who set forth to plan her own wedding. Although her experience was memorable, it was also a stressful time. The eldest of her siblings, Laila had to run errands
on her own, reviewing brand after brand across the city in hopes of finding the ideal set of services to accommodate her needs. Emirati weddings are packed with a series of events, she said. A standard format features the engagement, henna night, and the actual wedding party — each boasting a unique setting according to tradition and the bride’s desires. While the big day took place without a hitch for Laila, she was exhausted by the end of it. With these thoughts in mind,
Laila set forth to conduct a market research, which led to the birth of Brides To Be Flowers and Events, a bridal boutique that features everything a bride could possibly imagine under one roof. “As a wife, mother of two and a working woman, you would think that my hands were full, however, as an Emirati woman, I wanted to create something that would bring convenience into the lives of future brides. It is already a stressful time for them, speaking from
I decided to create a concept I wish I had when I was a bride to be.” — Laila Nabeel Abdulla Kamber, Founder, Brides To Be Flowers and Events 6
KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | JANUARY 29, 2019
www.khaleejtimes.com
Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations How early is too early? There’s no such thing as too early when it comes to planning a wedding, said Laila. Three to six months is ideal for most elements of the ceremony. But if the planning process involves designing a custom dress, it is best to plan at least nine months prior to the event, depending on designers (who tend to have a waiting list). experience, so I wanted to make the whole planning process easy, friendly and comfortable,” she said. “When I was doing my research, I realised how saturated the wedding market was and I knew it was a highly competitive environment; however I was so passionate about what I had in mind and knew that this would be one of the things that would make Brides To Be stand out from competitors.” Brides To Be collaborates with a number of reputed brands that cover the A to Z of a bride’s checklist. From dress designers and graphic specialists to create invitation cards to make-up and hair artists, as well as tokens for guests such as wedding favours, Brides To Be has all the bases covered. Collection of bridal necessities The boutique, located on Jumeirah 3 boulevard, is designed in a way that displays a unique collection of bridal necessities offered by its exclusive list of vendors. From elaborately decorated dummy tiered cakes to an array of aromatic fragrances, visitors are treated to an easy-to-access platform where they can view, sample and customise the options as per their desires. “The villa is dedicated to the bride herself. When she steps in, she is introduced to a host of renowned brands that we collaborate with. Everything she would need on that checklist for the big day is at the villa,” she said.
Destination weddings “We have seen over the years how much Dubai has grown, not only in the tourism aspect, but also as a destination wedding. We, as Brides To Be, wanted to tap into this growing market so we collaborated with a premium airline that offers to fly in loved ones for the big day,” said Laila. Brides To Be has proudly achieved such a feat, bringing guests from the UK, Lebanon, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Pakistan and India to celebrate the ceremony in the UAE. We’re with her every step of the way and take care of everything, so she can truly feel like a bride. We want her to enjoy the process, and aim to make the experience easy and stress-free,” she added. Brides To Be is also wellconnected with some of the biggest hotel brands and venues in the UAE, giving new couples plenty of indoor and outdoor backdrops to choose from. Brides To Be also specialises in flower arrangements, offering elegant bouquets for various events. Laila mentioned that its list of clientele includes Atlantis The Palm. Clash of the colours Speaking about popular colour palettes, Laila shared that Emirati
brides are fond of the nude shade. While Brides To Be aims to accommodate all the bride’s wishes, they do step in with professional opinions. “Our team has over 10 years of experience as wedding coordinators. We do suggest balancing out monotones, as you can’t go too neutral or too bright. To fully understand the outcome, our 3D rendering comes to the rescue, where we play out the colours and other factors to visualise the day of the wedding,” she added. The same applies to the destination setting. The team consider the pros and cons of each idea and transform them into a ceremony of a lifetime.
More than a boutique Brides To Be is centred on building long-lasting relationships. “We aim to get involved in different types of ceremonies from the very beginning, not just the big day. We like to build a relationship, and be there for the bride as a friend. To show our happiness for the bride, we present her with a complimentary bridal bouquet of her choice to congratulate her. And on her first anniversary, we make sure to send her a gift with our heartfelt thoughts. We also hope that she would remember us for any other event that requires flowers — be it to celebrate the birth of her first child or birthdays, etc.,” she said. — farhana@khaleejtimes.com
Services offered via Brides To Be: • Full wedding set-up, stage decoration and flowers (by Brides To Be) • Wedding dresses • Designer evening dresses • Evening abayas • Moroccan bridal kaftans • Dresses for Henna night • Jewellery • Bridal lingerie • Catering • Wedding favours • Chocolates • Perfumes • Hair and make-up • Graphic designing for invitation cards and logo • Photography • Music and DJs • Gahwa-servers (a staple in Arab hospitality, where guests are served a variety of tea and coffee)
Planning a wedding & would like a consultation? Contact Brides To Be: Phone: 04-3386380 E-mail: contact@bridestobe.ae Website: www.bridestobe.ae Instagram: bridestobe.ae
Professionals at work The Brides To Be team starts off with a consultation to understand what the bride is looking for. “We talk to her about the design, her likes, her budget and then we work accordingly and come up with a concept for her. We show her samples of our work and also have an extension room dedicated to creating a mini scene. Here, the bride can visualise the theme in a real setting; she can see how different colours would work together, how different flowers would fit in with the theme, etc.,” Laila said. The team also creates a 3D rendered design that is so realistic that the bride can be assured that what she sees is what she will get. “We’re here to help. We plan the wedding and become the bride’s personal coordinator for the big day. www.khaleejtimes.com
KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | JANUARY 29, 2019
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Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations
Mountains of bliss
Honeymoons are once in a lifetime, so why not head to a truly majestic locale, instead of the usual beachside or secluded island getaway? There’s no better place to scream that you love someone than from the top of a mountain!
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here’s just something about mountains. The majesty, the isolation, the feeling of being on top of the world. It’s something that sandy beaches and secluded islands just can’t match. Which is why, this year, we’re all about mountain resorts for a truly awe-inspiring honeymoon getaway. These resorts have some of the most unparalleled hospitality, unrivalled pampering, breathtaking views - naturally - and offer unique activities that are just perfect for honeymooners. So, instead of going to the usual honeymoon islands, why not head to the mountains for a real getaway?
Vigilius Mountain Resort South Tyrol, Italy Set in Italy’s northernmost region, Vigilius Mountain Resort in South Tyrol is an ideal place to escape the stress of the modern world. Located high in the Alps and reachable only by cable car, Vigilius is a slice of paradise at 5,000 feet and the resort is car-free. This eco-friendly hideaway offers jaw-dropping views of the Dolomite Mountains and is also home to a 13th century church, adding to the romantic ambience. Explore bubbling springs and pristine forests, then come back and relax in the spa with treatments
utilising the fresh water of Vigiljoch Springs, believed to have healing powers. All 41 open-plan rooms have a freestanding stone wall that separates the living and bath areas. The meditation room and the Paradise Garden are spectacular settings for yoga, qigong, and other restful activities. If you’re a couple that loves to be outdoors, take advantage of the restaurant’s hearty picnics or Nordic walks, mountain biking, and other outdoor sports (with or without a guide). Note: Vigilius Mountain Resort closes for two weeks in
November for cable car maintenance.
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, Thailand With views of rice paddies and the Suthep mountain range beyond, this is one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets. Set amidst a working rice farm, the picturesque classical Lanna architecture coupled with vaulted ceilings, teak floors, private salas (open-air spaces), and art from the Siamese kingdom makes this a truly idyllic honeymoon destination. One of the signature experiences that guests rave about is the cooking class. The resort has its own organic garden and a shopping village with five stores, including Jim Thompson, so you can pick your food and learn how to cook some really exotic Thai food. Or you could bike down to the Mae Rim valley to get a taste of local life, or indulge in their Spa 101 for Couples’ treatment.
Alila Jebel Akhdar Nizwa, Oman If you want to really get away from it all, and not go too far, this is as secluded as you’ll probably get. This remote 78-room resort is 2,000m above sea level and a little over an hour’s drive away from Nizwa (about 145km southwest of Muscat), and couples can spend their days hiking (the hotel leads a number of excellent tours through neighbouring ancient villages), swimming in one of the most talked about infinity pools with its views of the sheer canyons below, and generally forgetting the 21st century exists due to a distinct (and pleasant) absence of any sign of modern
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KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | JANUARY 29, 2019
Sri Lanka life. It’s Omani hospitality at its finest, with all the touches of Alila’s signature style. Note: April is particularly stunning with the rose bushes in full bloom. Tours are available.
Banyan Tree Lijiang Lijiang, Yunnan, China Banyan Tree’s outpost in northwestern Yunnan Province is a retreat almost 2,000m above sea level, with 122 villas and suites facing the glacial peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountains. If that hasn’t got you sold, consider the fairytale setting of quaint water canals and bridges and celebrating your honeymoon in what is regarded as the “Venice of the Orient”. Couples can explore the local
Na’xi culture at the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lijiang Old Town, or take one of the romantic tours into the mountain towns. Of course, there are some signature spa treatments to pamper yourselves, and villas come equipped with private Jacuzzis or plunge pools if all you want to do is be cosy together.
Ceylon Tea Trails Bogawantalawa, Sri Lanka Sure, this is not quite being up on a mountaintop, but Sri Lanka’s hills are just as romantic and serene. Ceylon Tea Trails is the country’s first Relais & Chateaux resort and consists of four sprawling bungalows, each at different altitudes, that were built between 1890 and 1939 as residences for tea planters.
THAILAND www.khaleejtimes.com
Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations
Indulge in the warmth of Arabian hospitality
Each villa is unique and linked by walking trails and biking paths (not all clearly marked) that wind through waist-high bushes where the tea pickers work. If you’re looking for a breathtaking tea estate experience like no other, this is it. Oh, and each villa has its own butler, signature afternoon tea — with exotic Sri Lankan teas, of course — and delicious meals, and tea tasting tours. Other activities that can be arranged for couples include mountain biking, kayaking, and white water rafting in the nearby rapids.
Wildflower Hall Shimla, India At 2,500m above sea
Bhutan www.khaleejtimes.com
level, high in the Himalayas, Wildflower Hall in the Himalayas is a premier mountaintop resort that will make you feel as if you’re stepping into the pages of a fairytale. Antique furniture, wood panelling and original artwork coupled with magnificent vistas of endless forests and snowcapped mountains make this a truly breathtaking honeymoon getaway. Spend your days taking part in couples’ activities like white water rafting or trekking, and evenings indulging in holistic treatments in private spa suites — all with the same gorgeous mountain views. You could also indulge in one of the many bespoke romantic picnic menus like the stunning Picnic
Al Raha Beach Hotel blends luxury with contemporary Arabic décor for a remarkable break
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l Raha Beach Hotel is managed by Danat Hotels and Resorts, a division of National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels. Situated along the shores of the Arabian Gulf, the five-star beach hotel is a rare pearl of hospitality in the emirate, where style and elegance are combined with luxury and a touch of Arabia. Enjoy award-winning cuisine, a unique dining experience and serene lush green views with detailed personalised service at the beach hotel. With its 278 well-appointed rooms, suites and villas, the hotel represents the charm of contemporary Arabic décor perfectly blended with the traditional warmth of Arabian hospitality. With near proximity to International airport and easy access to the city, it is an ideal location for both leisure and business travellers, offering effortless access to the best Abu Dhabi has to offer.
at the Peak — a quaint colonial bungalow built in 1863 and used as the weekend retreat for many a Viceroy, including Lord Ripon and Lord Lytton.
Taj Tashi, Thimphu, Bhutan If you haven’t yet ventured into this forbidden kingdom, you simply must. What better country to set foot into for the happiest days of your life than one that measures its worth not in GDP, but GNH - Gross National Happiness? Set in the heart of the Thimphu Valley, the Taj Tashi, is a very special gateway, in a land steeped in mythology and magic. Here, nestled in the Himalayas — which you can gawk at from the luxurious day beds in one of 66 elegant rooms at the Taj Tashi — couples can really lose themselves in the mysteries of Bhutanese life. The hotel, in keeping with Bhutanese architecture, is a blend of Bhutan’s Dzong and contemporary designs, with plenty to explore in the nearby town, including monasteries and pristine wildernesses. There’s also the Jiva spa, which is known for its incredible treatments and the Bhutanese food is sure to spice up your honeymoon! KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | JANUARY 29, 2019
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Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations
Let the magic unfold Genie Events brings a winning combo of wedding concepts and dream destinations to complete your perfect day Farhana Chowdhury
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Amit Rathore
reathing life into special events, Genie Infotainment Middle East LLC combines years of expertise with a dreamy touch to create the perfect setting for large-scale occasions. Established in 2002 under the leadership of its Founder Amit Rathore, the company specialises in Weddings, Destinations, Corporate events, as well as Celebrity Management, catering to some of Bollywood’s renowned stars. The UAE is home to a multicultural expatriate community, which is why the Genie Events’ team is the perfect solution to help plan your big day. Its seasoned professionals specialise in different types of ceremonies — from the mehendi rituals and sangeet, to chooda, roka and cocktail parties. Fan of glitz and glam, or want to go for a modest setting, Genie Events has a range of ideas and exciting concepts in terms of venue, entertainment, fireworks, special entry for the bride and groom, catering, invitations, photographers, makeup artists, fashion designers, hospitality and guest
Specialities: management, and many more. The Genie team is also skilled in artistic floral decorations as well as interior and outdoor décor to ensure the perfect day. Looking at Destination events,
Genie Events is well-connected with hospitality brands around the world, leaving clients spoilt for choice. In addition, its team takes care of logo branding to celebrate the couple, candid photographers to capture special moments that are often missed, pick-up and drop-off services for a stress-free ride to the ceremony, exclusive suites and honeymoon packages for memories of a lifetime. It takes foresight, determination and charm to maintain a successful organisation for nearly two decades, and Amit is armed with just the right attitude to do that. His strong flair for business earned him the reins of three projects. He is currently the Founder of Genie Events (Genie Infotainment Middle East LLC), an 18-year-old successful event management company; the Managing Partner of Al Kosha Events; and the Managing
Men’s must-haves for a wedding party Here are few inspirational tips that are bound to turn heads at your next attendance
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very man wants to look his best in parties, especially if it’s a wedding party. Sagar and Surya Suri, Founders of Steele, list down some tips that men should look out for while getting ready for a wedding. ★★ Preference for linen: There is no other fabric like linen, which
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is synonymous with summer. Linen is a light, cotton fabric, which makes it a perfect fabric for the season. ★★ Pastel colours: Opt for pastel shades like cream, turquoise, white, etc. These do not absorb heat, and give a subtle and soothing look even if you plan to pair it up with a blazer. White is always a man’s best friend when it comes to dressing up for a summer wedding party. ★★ Well-tailored suit: Take care that the clothes you wear must neither be too tight nor very loose. It’s preferable for men to wear tailored suits with proper cuts. Avoid informal
KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT | JANUARY 29, 2019
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Wedding Décor Gala Corporate Events Award Functions Annual Days Bhoomi Pujan Carnivals Employee Engagement Activities Family Days Theme Parties Fashion Shows Gala Dinner Corporate Festivals Offsite Events
Partner of Genie Events LLP, India, which is one of the fastest growing event agencies in Dubai and Delhi. To date, Genie Events’ in-house production facility spans over 100,000 square feet, with a dedicated team of 30 managers and executives, and a workforce of 150. — farhana@khaleejtimes.com
Get floral
fashion right
When it comes to fashion, floral designs are making big waves. But there are basic things you need to keep in mind to ace it, say experts Designers Anand Saraf and Megha Jain Madhan share some tips: outfits such as T-shirt and jeans. ★★ Indo-western: Indo-western clothing is very much in vogue these days because of their highly detailed and elaborated embroidery. These designs give a regal and royal touch to their look. Actor and model Karan Oberoi also has some tips to share for men who want to look great at a summer wedding:
★★ Keep hair short and clean. ★★ Clean shaven is ideal, but if you are fond of keeping a stubble or beard, trim it neatly. ★★ For summer, linen shirts and suits look amazing. Wear light colours like white, turquoise or lemon yellow. ★★ Footwear is important; opt for loafers or high fashion formals. ★★ If you are fond of jewellery, wear silver. —IANS
* Floral designs are best suited on pastels and nude colours. * Go for a minimalist looks with your floral embroidery pieces. * Add a silver accessory to your floral pieces for classic look. * Outfits with floral designs are best suited for a day-wear. * Try different silhouettes with drapes and locate your floral embroidery differently. * Try floral fashion on different fabrics such as chiffon or neoprene or satin. * Give a twist to floral fashion by using floral embroideries done by metal. * Opt for nude footwear with your floral ensemble.
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